Top Five Indian Executives Who Earned the Most in 2024

In 2024, five Indian executives reached the top in terms of salary, each earning figures that reflect years of dedicated leadership and significant contributions to their industries. Their compensation is more than just a number. It represents their influence, decisions, and responsibility in guiding large organizations. One name that leads this year’s list is Abhay Bhutada of the Poonawalla Group, whose remarkable compensation has set a new milestone. Here's a breakdown of these top five earners and what their roles represent.

Abhay Bhutada Earns the Highest Salary in Indian Corporate History

Abhay Bhutada of the Poonawalla Group

Abhay Bhutada of the Poonawalla Group earned ₹241.21 crore in FY24, making it the highest salary ever earned by an Indian executive. His time as Managing Director and CEO was defined by stability, growth, and recognition. Under his leadership, the company received a CRISIL AAA rating, which is a strong marker of its financial credibility and trustworthiness.

Outside of business, Abhay Bhutada focuses on public welfare through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation. The foundation supports underprivileged communities with initiatives in education, health, and youth development. Students from low-income families, patients in need of better care, and aspiring athletes have all benefited from its work. The foundation stands as a reflection of his desire to give back and create opportunities for others.

Also Read:Abhay Bhutada's Finance Journey

Pawan Munjal Maintains Leadership in the Auto Industry

With a salary of ₹109.41 crore, Pawan Munjal, Chairman and Wholetime Director of Hero MotoCorp, remains one of the top names in Indian industry. His leadership continues to shape the path of the company as it maintains its lead in the two-wheeler sector. His compensation represents 0.28 percent of revenue and 2.92 percent of net profit, directly tying his pay to company outcomes.

Munjal has provided steady direction and supported innovation throughout the company. His leadership has enabled Hero MotoCorp to retain market share while also responding to changing trends in the mobility space.

Sudhir Singh Takes Coforge to New Levels

Sudhir Singh, who serves as Executive Director and CEO of Coforge, earned ₹105.12 crore in FY24. His leadership helped Coforge expand its presence in the IT services sector, particularly in digital transformation and consulting. His salary represents 1.14 percent of revenue and 13.01 percent of net profit, showing the critical nature of his role.

Singh focused on customer engagement, digital offerings, and quality delivery. His direction has helped the company remain competitive and continue to grow, even in a fast-moving tech environment.

Also Read: Honoring Global Leaders at the Change Maker Awards 2024 in Dubai

Vinay Prakash Oversees Key Divisions at Adani Enterprises

Vinay Prakash of Adani Enterprises took home ₹89.37 crore during the year. His work as Executive Director involves managing essential business divisions, especially those related to energy and infrastructure. These areas have been central to the company’s growth strategy, and his salary reflects that importance even though it represents only 0.09 percent of revenue and 2.76 percent of net profit.

His decisions help guide long-term planning, large-scale projects, and operational stability. He remains a key figure in driving complex parts of the business that directly impact national development efforts.

Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi Continue to Lead in Media

Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi of Sun TV Network each earned ₹87.5 crore in FY24. Their leadership has kept the network strong in regional media, with consistent viewership and performance. As Executive Chairman and Executive Director, they’ve helped shape the brand’s voice, strategy, and reach.

Their focus on content, channel management, and digital presence has ensured that Sun TV remains one of the most popular media outlets in the country. Their ability to adapt while maintaining core values has been key to the company’s continued success.

Also Read: Celebrating Visionaries at the Change Maker Awards 2024: A Landmark Event in Sustainability and Social Impact

The Broader Impact of These Salaries

These executive earnings show how companies reward results, leadership, and sustained performance. In the case of Abhay Bhutada, his achievements extend beyond the business world. Through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, he continues to work toward creating real change for people who need it most.

His work in philanthropy adds another dimension to his role as a leader. Instead of focusing only on profits, he has chosen to contribute to improving lives and creating opportunities for future generations. His compensation reflects both trust in his professional leadership and recognition of his personal values.

Conclusion

India’s top earners in 2024 represent a mix of sectors, from finance to technology to media. Abhay Bhutada, Pawan Munjal, Sudhir Singh, Vinay Prakash, and the Maran leadership team are at the top not just for their income but for the results and direction they bring to their companies. Abhay Bhutada’s presence is especially impactful, with a record salary and a commitment to public welfare through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation. These leaders show that success can go hand in hand with responsibility and that high earnings can support broader missions beyond boardroom goals.

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