For over a century, people have relied on Forbes as a stalwart and respected source of business news reporting, and its prominent award lists and rankings are a showcase of excellence. In 2024, Forbes launched a new category, the Forbes Sustainability Leaders list, honoring 50 individuals whose decisive leadership is navigating and accelerating a new global climate economy amid a backdrop of uncertainty, economic challenges, and amplification of misinformation. Monarch CEO, Praveen Penmetsa, is one of those individuals.
This year’s roster includes an impressive list of movers and shakers who are advancing efforts and developing technologies that help society preserve valuable research, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect vulnerable environments, and change how corporations are engaging with natural resources. Penmetsa’s visionary guidance with Monarch Tractor is ushering in a new era of farming by reimagining the compact tractor.
Monarch’s MK-V is the world’s first 100% electric, driver-optional, and data-driven tractor. Its advanced technology is giving farmers access to cleaner, more efficient, and profitable farming while strengthening a healthier global food network and food security. As of summer 2025, the MK-V fleet has abated an estimated 2,700 metric tons of CO2.
The Forbes Sustainability Leaders 2025 honorees were selected with the guidance of a panel of accomplished judges:
These individuals curated a list to prove how breakthrough ideas and targeted investment deliver measurable progress.
Penmetsa’s inclusion further validates Monarch’s contributions to a collective effort proving that a sustainable economy and climate progress can not only be realized but surpass expectations.