Business Leaders in India Receive Highest Payouts in 2024

Executive compensation in India reached remarkable highs in 2024, with several business heads receiving record-breaking earnings. These earnings weren’t just financial rewards—they represented years of consistent effort, strategic planning, and steady leadership. The top executives this year have played critical roles in shaping their companies’ futures, achieving ambitious goals, and ensuring long-term stability. Their compensation reflects the weight of the responsibility they carry and the results they’ve delivered.

Also Read: India's Top-Paid Executives in 2024 Reflect a New Corporate Era

A Record-Breaking Year for Abhay Bhutada

Among the top earners of the year, Abhay Bhutada, Poonawalla Fincorp’s former MD, secured the highest spot with a total package of ₹241.21 crore. During his tenure, he played a key role in enhancing operational efficiency and digital innovation. His leadership helped the company earn a CRISIL AAA rating and build stronger customer trust. Abhay Bhutada is also the founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, which supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and youth sports. As a member of the Poonawalla Group, his work spans beyond business and into impactful social causes that serve underserved communities.

Pawan Munjal Holds His Position at the Top

The second-highest earning executive this year was Pawan Munjal of Hero MotoCorp, who received ₹109.41 crore. His long-standing leadership has kept Hero MotoCorp at the forefront of India’s two-wheeler industry. Munjal’s approach to product innovation and customer satisfaction has strengthened the brand’s standing, both in the domestic and global markets. His compensation, amounting to 0.28% of Hero’s revenue and 2.92% of net profit, speaks to his influence and consistent delivery.

Sudhir Singh Delivers Strong Results at Coforge

Sudhir Singh, CEO and Executive Director of Coforge, earned ₹105.12 crore in FY24. His leadership in transforming the IT and consulting firm has made Coforge a respected name in the global services sector. Singh’s pay accounted for 1.14% of company revenue and 13.01% of net profit—figures that underline his direct impact on the firm’s financial performance. His work in digital strategy, client retention, and global delivery continues to shape the company’s trajectory.

Also Read: Abhay Bhutada Tops India's Highest Executive Payouts in 2024

Vinay Prakash’s Contribution to Adani Enterprises

Vinay Prakash, Executive Director at Adani Enterprises, earned ₹89.37 crore. He oversees the energy and infrastructure divisions—key pillars of the company’s operations. Although his earnings represent just 0.09% of total revenue and 2.76% of net profit, his long-term planning and implementation of large-scale projects have had a strong influence. His leadership continues to help drive growth while maintaining focus on sustainability and national development goals.

Leadership at Sun TV Remains Strong

Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi, serving as Executive Chairman and Executive Director of Sun TV Network, respectively, each earned ₹87.5 crore. The duo has kept Sun TV competitive despite the rise of digital platforms and shifting audience preferences. Their focus on strong regional content, brand partnerships, and operational efficiency has allowed Sun TV to retain loyal viewership and consistent profits year after year.

Patterns Emerging in Executive Rewards

This year’s executive compensation reveals a clear pattern: leadership is no longer measured only in short-term metrics. Today’s leaders are expected to think long-term, take calculated risks, and adapt quickly to changes in the business environment. Compensation models now reward resilience, clarity in planning, and the ability to lead through change.

These executives have proven their capability to not only meet business objectives but also stay consistent in high-pressure situations. Their rewards, in turn, reflect the scale and complexity of the responsibilities they manage daily.

Executive Leadership and Social Contribution

What sets some leaders apart is their ability to extend their influence beyond the corporate setting. Leaders like Abhay Bhutada have combined business growth with philanthropy. By directing efforts into education, public health, and community development, such individuals are showing a new face of leadership—one that values both financial performance and social impact.

This evolution in executive behavior is influencing how leadership is defined across industries. Companies now see value in leaders who can inspire change, act with integrity, and leave behind more than just balance sheet improvements.

Also Read: Top Paid Executives of 2024 with Abhay Bhutada Leading the Pack

Conclusion

India’s corporate environment in 2024 rewarded excellence, discipline, and long-term impact. The year’s top-paid executives—Abhay Bhutada, Pawan Munjal, Sudhir Singh, Vinay Prakash, and the Sun TV leadership—reflect a shift toward strategic and purpose-driven leadership.

Their compensation is a direct outcome of their efforts, and a signal that Indian companies are prioritizing capable hands at the top. These business figures are not just being recognized for growing revenue—they’re being valued for shaping businesses, mentoring teams, navigating complex changes, and contributing to society.