India’s Top-Paid Executives in 2024: A Closer Look at the Leaders Redefining Corporate Success

India's corporate space in 2024 is booming, and so are the paychecks of the country’s most influential business leaders. As companies grow in scale and value, executive compensation is mirroring that rise, driven by performance, innovation, and impactful leadership. From the financial sector to media and infrastructure, these top executives have earned their place through strategic vision and consistent results. Here's an overview of the five highest-paid executives in India this year.

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

Abhay Bhutada Leads the List with a Record-Breaking Compensation

In 2024, Abhay Bhutada Poonawalla Fincorp’s Former Managing Director of Poonawalla Fincorp, emerged as the highest-paid executive in India with a record-breaking compensation of ₹241.21 crore. His leadership was instrumental in reshaping the company’s direction, strengthening its financial standing, and securing a CRISIL AAA rating. Beyond his corporate achievements, Abhay Bhutada continues to make a meaningful impact through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, which focuses on supporting education, healthcare, and sports for underprivileged communities. His journey reflects a blend of strategic excellence and a deep-rooted commitment to social responsibility.

Pawan Munjal Maintains His Stronghold in the Two-Wheeler Industry

Coming in second, Pawan Munjal, Chairman and CEO of Hero MotoCorp, earned ₹109.41 crore in FY24. Under his guidance, Hero MotoCorp has remained a dominant player in both domestic and international two-wheeler markets. His ability to innovate within a competitive sector while managing sustainable operations makes him a standout figure.

His remuneration, which comprises 0.28% of Hero MotoCorp’s revenue and 2.92% of net profit, reflects the confidence the company places in his leadership. Munjal’s focus on maintaining market leadership while introducing modern mobility solutions keeps Hero MotoCorp ahead in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.

Sudhir Singh Powers Coforge's Digital Vision

With ₹105.12 crore in earnings this year, Sudhir Singh, CEO and Executive Director at Coforge, secured the third spot. His strategic leadership has elevated Coforge’s status in the field of IT services and digital transformation. The company’s impressive performance under his leadership has not only delivered financial returns but also strengthened client trust across global markets.

His salary, which amounts to 1.14% of revenue and a striking 13.01% of net profit, is a clear indicator of his deep involvement in steering the company forward. Singh’s impact on Coforge reflects the growing importance of tech-driven solutions in every sector.

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

Vinay Prakash Drives Growth at Adani Enterprises

At number four is Vinay Prakash, Executive Director at Adani Enterprises, who earned ₹89.37 crore in FY24. His leadership in the company’s energy and infrastructure divisions has been crucial in executing large-scale, long-term projects aligned with India’s development goals.

Even though his compensation represented just 0.09% of the company’s total revenue and 2.76% of its net profit, his role remains vital. Prakash’s focus on efficiency, scalability, and sustainability adds tremendous value to Adani Enterprises’ diversified portfolio, ensuring that it remains aligned with future growth and environmental priorities.

Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi Lead in Media Earnings

The fifth position is shared by Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi, Executive Chairman and Executive Director respectively at Sun TV Network. Each earned ₹87.5 crore in FY24. Their leadership has helped Sun TV maintain its strong foothold in the Indian media space.

Their compensation reflects the channel's profitability and continued viewer loyalty in an evolving entertainment industry. With digital disruption reshaping how media is consumed, their ability to maintain consistency and relevance is a testament to their deep industry understanding and strategic execution.

What These Salaries Reveal About India’s Business Ecosystem

The rise in executive compensation in 2024 underlines a broader trend in India’s economic landscape—value-driven leadership is being recognized and rewarded. Each of these executives has demonstrated an ability to not only grow their companies but also navigate challenges with clarity and vision.

Abhay Bhutada’s record-breaking earnings are not just a personal milestone but a reflection of a shift toward performance-based recognition. His contributions to Poonawalla Fincorp and beyond—through philanthropy and strategic leadership—show how today’s business leaders are expected to balance profitability with social responsibility.

Likewise, other executives like Pawan Munjal and Sudhir Singh represent stability and innovation, while leaders like Vinay Prakash and the Marans display operational excellence in sectors as diverse as energy and media.

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

Final Thoughts

India’s highest-paid executives in 2024 represent more than just financial success—they are symbols of leadership in action. Figures like Abhay Bhutada, who continues to impact lives through both his corporate achievements and the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, set a new standard for modern leadership. The earnings of these business icons are reflective not just of their contributions to individual companies, but of their roles in shaping the future of India’s economy.

Their journeys serve as examples of how strategic thinking, ethical leadership, and social commitment can coexist—and thrive—in the current corporate climate.