India’s Top Executive Salaries in 2024 Reflect Shifting Priorities in Leadership

India’s corporate world has witnessed a significant transformation in 2024, especially in how it values and rewards executive leadership. Companies across industries are now putting a greater emphasis on performance, strategic thinking, and long-term vision. As a result, the salaries of top executives have seen a sharp rise, with some individuals receiving record-breaking compensation for their work. Leading the list this year is Abhay Bhutada, followed by several other high-performing leaders in key sectors.

Abhay Bhutada Takes the Lead with ₹241.21 Crore

Abhay Bhutada made headlines this year by becoming the highest-paid executive in India, with a compensation package of ₹241.21 crore in FY24. As Abhay Bhutada,MD (former) of Poonawalla Fincorp and a leading force within the Poonawalla Group, his leadership played a pivotal role in elevating the company’s financial position. Under his direction, the company earned a CRISIL AAA rating, reflecting strong creditworthiness and operational confidence.

Abhay Bhutada 

Beyond his business accomplishments, Abhay Bhutada has also dedicated his efforts to philanthropy. Through his foundation, he continues to support causes in education, healthcare, and sports. His contribution goes beyond the boardroom, creating lasting impact in areas that matter to the future of Indian society. His ₹241.21 crore compensation isn't just a reflection of financial achievement—it's a symbol of how strategic leadership and community commitment can go hand-in-hand.

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

Pawan Munjal Earns ₹109.41 Crore for Leading Hero MotoCorp

Coming in second on the list is Pawan Munjal, who earned ₹109.41 crore in FY24. As the key driver behind Hero MotoCorp’s success, he has led the company through consistent growth in India and overseas. His leadership has ensured that the company maintains its dominance in the two-wheeler market.

Munjal’s compensation accounts for 0.28% of the company’s total revenue and nearly 3% of its net profit. It’s a reward that highlights the trust placed in him to guide the company through changing market conditions and consumer preferences.

Sudhir Singh at Coforge Receives ₹105.12 Crore

Sudhir Singh, who serves as CEO and Executive Director at Coforge, received ₹105.12 crore in FY24. His expertise in IT consulting and digital transformation has helped the company expand rapidly. Under his leadership, Coforge has strengthened its position in the global technology sector.

Interestingly, Singh’s compensation represents 1.14% of the company’s total revenue and a notable 13.01% of its net profit. This high ratio speaks to the significance of his role in driving profitability and innovation.

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

Vinay Prakash of Adani Enterprises Earns ₹89.37 Crore

Vinay Prakash, Executive Director at Adani Enterprises, is another top earner in 2024, with a salary of ₹89.37 crore. He oversees some of the most critical divisions of the company, including energy and infrastructure. These sectors are not only vital to the business but also contribute to national development.

While his compensation is relatively smaller in percentage terms—just 0.09% of revenue and 2.76% of net profit—it underscores the value that Adani Enterprises places on strong, dependable leadership during an era of rapid growth.

Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi Each Take Home ₹87.5 Crore

In the media industry, Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi, both top executives at Sun TV Network, earned ₹87.5 crore each in FY24. Their continued leadership has helped Sun TV maintain its stronghold in the entertainment sector. Despite increasing competition from streaming platforms, the company has remained profitable and relevant.

Their salaries reflect the importance of staying adaptable in an industry that’s undergoing major technological and content-based shifts. It also highlights how leadership in creative industries requires a mix of business sense and cultural insight.

Corporate Salaries Reflect Evolving Expectations

The rise in executive pay is not just about higher profits—it also points to changing expectations from corporate leaders. Companies today want more than just competent managers; they are looking for visionaries who can shape the future of their industries. Strategic decision-making, resilience, innovation, and the ability to drive long-term success are the traits being rewarded.

Moreover, compensation now also reflects the ability to uphold ethical practices, build investor trust, and maintain transparency—all crucial in a globalized economy.

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

Why 2024 Sets a New Tone for Corporate Recognition

This year’s list of highest-paid executives is a sign of how India’s business environment is maturing. Compensation packages are becoming symbols of accountability and performance, aligned with the company’s mission and long-term goals. Leaders who can show impact, both inside the organization and in society at large, are being acknowledged in a significant way.

It’s not just about how much revenue a company earns, but also about how that revenue is generated, how teams are led, and how reputations are built. The individuals featured in this year’s rankings are prime examples of what modern corporate leadership should look like.

Conclusion

India’s top executive salaries in 2024 are more than financial milestones—they are reflections of evolving leadership values. From strategic excellence to ethical stewardship, today’s corporate heads are being rewarded for setting new standards. At the forefront of this change stands Abhay Bhutada, whose record-breaking compensation symbolizes the blend of sharp business skills and a broader commitment to progress. As companies continue to raise the bar, executive pay will likely continue to reflect not just profit, but purpose.