The Governing Council of CLAFI comprises eminent academicians, industry leaders, and legal professionals who bring together decades of experience in engineering, law, and dispute resolution.
Guided by a shared vision of advancing construction law, contract management, and arbitration in India, the Council plays a pivotal role in steering CLAFI’s mission, academic programs, and professional initiatives.
Through their collective expertise and mentorship, the Governing Council ensures that CLAFI remains a centre of excellence, fostering collaboration between engineers, lawyers, and arbitrators to strengthen India’s dispute resolution framework.
Chairman’s Message
Prof. R. Venkataraghavan
Prof. R. Venkataraghavan is a distinguished academic, expert, arbitrator, and construction law professional with over four decades of experience bridging the worlds of engineering, law, and dispute resolution.
As the Founder, Mentor, and Chief Patron of CLAFI, he envisions creating a unique platform where legal and technical minds come together to strengthen India’s capacity in construction law, claims, and arbitration.
Currently serving as a Professor of Practice at Manipal Law School, Prof. Venkataraghavan has been instrumental in conceptualizing and launching India’s first specialised postgraduate programs in Construction Law and Arbitration, shaping the future of interdisciplinary education in this field.
He is also the Co-Founder of C Cubed Consultants (UAE), a specialist consultancy in contract and claims management, and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (London).
His expertise spans FIDIC and NEC contract administration, delay and disruption claims, dispute resolution, and ADR mechanisms. Over the years, his leadership and mentorship have inspired professionals across India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Through CLAFI, Prof. Venkataraghavan continues to guide a growing community of professionals dedicated to excellence in construction law, arbitration, and dispute management.
President
Ms. Bindu Ramakrishnan
As President, Ms. Ramakrishnan leads CLAFI’s strategic vision and development initiatives, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and dispute resolution professionals.
Vice Presidents
Mr. Manjunath R & Mr. H. K. Sharma
The Vice Presidents support key programs, partnerships, and outreach initiatives, ensuring CLAFI’s mission is effectively implemented nationwide.
Secretary
Mr. Suresh Sheshagiri Rao
Responsible for overseeing administration and governance, the Secretary plays a pivotal role in coordinating council activities and maintaining institutional integrity.
Joint Secretaries
Mr. Deepak & Mr. Thingaran D
They assist in operational management, communications, and member engagement, helping strengthen CLAFI’s professional network.
Treasurer
Mr. Shachindra Bhat
The Treasurer ensures financial transparency, efficient resource allocation, and sustainability of CLAFI’s initiatives.
Together, the Governing Council
The CLAFI Governing Council represents a blend of academic excellence, professional expertise, and visionary leadership. United by a common goal, its members are committed to:
