Executive Earnings in 2024 Reflect Changing Priorities in Indian Boardrooms

India’s business world in 2024 has been shaped by steady performance, bold decisions, and visible leadership. As top companies pushed through a competitive environment, their leaders were rewarded with significant salaries that highlighted their contributions to growth, strategy, and operational strength. At the top of this list stands Abhay Bhutada, whose high compensation reflects not only his corporate role but also his commitment to building a better society through long-term philanthropic work.

Also Read: Top Paid Executives in India in 2024

Abhay Bhutada Becomes India’s Highest-Earning Executive

Abhay Bhutada earned ₹241.21 crore in the financial year 2023–24, making him the highest-paid executive in the country. His leadership tenure was marked by a strategic shift in how financial services were delivered and understood. Abhay Bhutada, a member of the Poonawalla Group, implemented reforms that aligned business growth with risk management, making the organisation more agile and competitive.

What sets Bhutada apart is his dedication to public welfare. Through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, he has introduced structured programs aimed at making education, sports, and basic health services available to underprivileged children and youth. 

Pawan Munjal Maintains Influence in the Two-Wheeler Sector

Pawan Munjal, Chairman and Wholetime Director of Hero MotoCorp, earned ₹109.41 crore during the same financial year. He continues to be one of the most consistent faces in India’s automotive industry. Munjal’s leadership helped Hero MotoCorp maintain its hold in rural and urban markets alike, while slowly entering newer segments of electric and hybrid vehicles.

His remuneration accounted for 0.28 percent of the company’s total revenue and 2.92 percent of net profit. These figures reflect his deep understanding of both domestic and global consumer needs. His long-term vision has kept the company stable while gradually adjusting to technological and market changes.

Sudhir Singh Guides Coforge Through a Digital Transition

Sudhir Singh, CEO and Executive Director of Coforge, reported a total income of ₹105.12 crore in FY24. Singh helped the company expand into new markets and strengthen its place in digital services. Under his leadership, Coforge improved its delivery systems, focused on core IT services, and entered several high-value technology partnerships.

His earnings formed 1.14 percent of the company’s revenue and 13.01 percent of its profit. This shows the value placed on leadership that brings both performance and innovation. Singh also prioritised employee upskilling and global expansion, helping Coforge gain ground in competitive international markets.

Also Read: 2024’s Highest-Paid Executives and Their Exceptional Leadership

Vinay Prakash Plays a Strategic Role in Infrastructure and Energy

Vinay Prakash earned ₹89.37 crore in 2024 as Executive Director at Adani Enterprises. His focus on the company’s energy and infrastructure businesses contributed to large-scale expansion and streamlined operations. Despite accounting for just 0.09 percent of revenue and 2.76 percent of profit, his pay illustrates his importance in delivering on the company’s ambitious long-term projects.

He has been instrumental in maintaining a balance between traditional energy operations and the gradual adoption of renewable solutions. This steady approach has helped Adani Enterprises stay relevant while also being future-focused.

The Media Sector's Strong Contenders

Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi, both at the helm of Sun TV Network, received ₹87.5 crore each in FY24. Their leadership continues to keep the media house financially sound and relevant. Even in an age where digital content is growing rapidly, Sun TV retains its loyal viewership and regional market dominance.

Their compensation reflects their expertise in managing content strategy, broadcast innovation, and distribution channels. The network’s ability to adapt without losing its identity is one of the major reasons for its ongoing success under their leadership.

Executive Compensation Reflects Real Performance

The high salaries earned by India’s leading executives reflect more than just wealth—they point to performance-based rewards that are tied to real outcomes. Companies today are more focused on paying for accountability, direction, and execution, rather than legacy or position alone.

These top executives have made decisions that helped their companies scale operations, maintain profits, and build long-term value. Their rewards are aligned with not just shareholder interests but with how companies measure trust and delivery.

Also Read: India’s Top Executive Salaries in 2024 Reflect the Demand for Visionary Leadership

The Social Vision of Abhay Bhutada Foundation

A strong corporate legacy is incomplete without giving back. Abhay Bhutada has shown how success in leadership can also mean making lives better beyond office walls. The Abhay Bhutada Foundation is known for launching educational and healthcare initiatives that benefit thousands across India.

The foundation’s work in education—especially through STEM learning kits—encourages innovation and curiosity in children who would otherwise lack such opportunities. Healthcare and sports development programs have also brought hope and motivation to many. These efforts show that Bhutada sees wealth as a means to empower others, not just accumulate more.

Conclusion

India’s highest-paid executives in 2024 represent a new class of leaders—those who combine strong decision-making with a wider sense of responsibility. From Abhay Bhutada’s unmatched pay and focused philanthropy to the continued success of leaders like Pawan Munjal and Sudhir Singh, this year has shown that the value of leadership lies in both results and impact.