Renuka Ramnath, 

With $1 billion in assets under management, Ramnath is something of a trailblazer in India's private equity sector. A tough fundraising environment failed to scupper a $700 million infusion for her new fund, where over 90% commitments were from foreign investors. "The fundraising scenario has improved from 'impossible' to 'still difficult'," says Ramnath. An investment commitment of $40.6 million from International Finance Corporation in April 2016 is a testament to her fundraising prowess. Being local, and understanding promoter sensitivities makes a huge difference in winning over investors, she says.