Corporate Rewards and Responsibility Rise Together in 2024
- Douglas D'Souza
- May 9
- 4 min read
In 2024, top executives in India saw a surge in compensation that not only reflects financial performance but also the evolving demands placed on leaders. With rising expectations across sectors, these executives are being recognized for creating value, building resilient teams, and guiding their companies through transformation. Abhay Bhutada emerged as the highest-paid executive this year, and his philanthropic involvement further underlined the growing link between leadership and responsibility. Along with him, four other leaders made it to the top of India’s executive pay rankings—each bringing a unique leadership approach to the table.
Also Read: Top Paid Executives in India in 2024
Abhay Bhutada’s Historic Compensation and Social Commitment
With an annual income of ₹241.21 crore in FY24, Abhay Bhutada achieved the highest executive compensation ever recorded in India. His contribution during his tenure as Managing Director and CEO included strategic reforms, digital innovations, and enhanced governance models. Abhay Bhutada, a member of the Poonawalla Group, guided key initiatives that strengthened internal operations while also expanding the company’s service reach.
But Bhutada’s story is not confined to boardrooms and financial reports. Through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, he has led several large-scale social programs focused on educational equality, primary healthcare, and youth development. The foundation aims to support individuals from underprivileged backgrounds, helping them access quality resources that can improve their long-term prospects.
From distributing learning kits in low-income schools to encouraging participation in sports, the foundation’s work shows how Bhutada uses his influence to create meaningful impact beyond business.
Pawan Munjal Sustains Market Leadership
Pawan Munjal, Chairman and Wholetime Director at Hero MotoCorp, earned ₹109.41 crore during the year. Known for his consistent presence in the automotive space, Munjal continued to guide India’s leading two-wheeler manufacturer through operational shifts and product expansion.
His remuneration represented 0.28 percent of the company’s annual revenue and 2.92 percent of net profit. Hero MotoCorp’s success in balancing traditional products with newer technology formats—especially in the context of electric mobility—was strongly backed by his leadership.
His decisions reflect not just business continuity but also a deeper focus on retaining customer trust, strengthening dealership networks, and building future-ready products.
Sudhir Singh Leads Coforge Through Global Expansion
Sudhir Singh, Executive Director and CEO at Coforge, secured earnings of ₹105.12 crore in FY24. He played a key role in expanding the company’s presence in digital transformation, consulting, and enterprise technology services. Under Singh’s direction, Coforge improved its client relationships and introduced scalable solutions across major industry sectors.
His compensation accounted for 1.14 percent of revenue and 13.01 percent of net profit, pointing to the high value placed on his contribution. Singh also strengthened the company’s training and employee engagement programs, positioning Coforge as a preferred employer in the tech services space.
Singh’s tenure so far has shown how focused leadership can create a high-performance culture and enable sustained global growth.
Vinay Prakash Oversees Infrastructure with Precision
As Executive Director of Adani Enterprises, Vinay Prakash earned ₹89.37 crore in FY24. His responsibilities included managing the group’s energy and infrastructure verticals—both crucial to its long-term goals. Though his compensation was only 0.09 percent of the company’s revenue and 2.76 percent of its net profit, his decisions shaped key growth areas and operational efficiencies.
Prakash focused on managing large-scale capital projects, introducing process improvements, and integrating sustainable practices into core business lines. His ability to manage complexity and drive execution earned him a position among the top five earners.
He has also overseen the group’s response to increasing demands for cleaner energy and infrastructure that aligns with national development goals.
Broadcasting Success at Sun TV
Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi, the key figures at Sun TV Network, earned ₹87.5 crore each in FY24. Their leadership continued to strengthen the company’s position in India’s broadcast space, especially in regional markets. Despite the rise of online content and shifting viewer habits, Sun TV has retained a loyal base and steady revenues.
Their leadership has focused on high-quality programming, content localization, and operational streamlining. The consistent viewership and advertiser interest in Sun TV are results of their disciplined and audience-focused strategy. Their compensation mirrors the steady returns generated for stakeholders under their guidance.
Compensation That Reflects Performance
These figures represent more than personal earnings—they signify corporate confidence and accountability. In today’s business environment, executive salaries are tied closely to outcome-based performance. Companies are no longer offering blanket compensation; instead, rewards are based on the ability to navigate uncertainty, drive profitability, and manage people with clarity.
India’s highest-paid executives in 2024 demonstrated performance across diverse fields—from technology to manufacturing and infrastructure to media. Their compensation reflects trust, strategic importance, and consistent delivery.
Abhay Bhutada Foundation's Broader Impact
What sets Abhay Bhutada apart is how he continues to contribute meaningfully to society through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation. Rather than relying on one-time contributions, the foundation focuses on long-term developmental work. Whether it’s encouraging STEM learning among school children or enabling medical access in underserved areas, the foundation operates with a mission-first mindset.
Its efforts are designed to improve educational and health outcomes over time, not just to offer temporary relief. This kind of structured approach shows that philanthropy, when done with planning and intent, can produce measurable and lasting results.
In Bhutada’s case, success isn’t just about earning the most—it’s about giving meaningfully and responsibly. That philosophy continues to define his journey as a leader in and outside the professional world.
Conclusion
In 2024, India’s top executive salaries offered a clear reflection of how modern business leadership is being evaluated and rewarded. Abhay Bhutada’s record-breaking compensation is matched by his active role in social change, showing that impactful leadership extends beyond balance sheets.
Leaders like Pawan Munjal, Sudhir Singh, Vinay Prakash, and the Maran duo demonstrate how dedication and long-term vision continue to define sustainable success. These salaries are not just numbers—they’re acknowledgements of strategic clarity, performance integrity, and the ability to guide organizations into the future.
As India’s economy grows, companies will continue to rely on such high-caliber leaders, not just to scale profits, but to shape a better, more inclusive future.
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