NEW DELHI: Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will attend the inaugural Financial Express (FE) Leadership Awards as the Chief Guest, celebrating outstanding achievements in Indian business, entrepreneurship and corporate leadership.
The awards ceremony, scheduled for November 2, will bring together some of India’s leading corporate executives, entrepreneurs and industry representatives to recognise individuals and organisations that have contributed to business growth, innovation and economic development.
The inaugural FE Leadership Awards aim to celebrate India’s entrepreneurial spirit and recognise business leaders who are transforming industries, expanding their global presence and driving innovation.
A seven-member jury chaired by Aditya Birla Group Chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla selected the winners. Other jury members included Salesforce South Asia President and CEO Arundhati Bhattacharya, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas Managing Partner Cyril Shroff, Bain Capital Chairman Amit Chandra, Sorin Investments Founder Sanjay Nayar, EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani and Kedaara Capital Founder Manish Kejriwal.
Who Are the Award Winners?
The awards recognise achievements across several categories, including corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainability.
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CEO of the Year: Anish Shah, Mahindra & Mahindra
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Company of the Year: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries
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Young Turks Award: Parth Jindal, JSW Group
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CFO of the Year: Ashok Sonthalia, Titan
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Emerging Entrepreneur: Vivek Raghavan and Pratyush Kumar, Sarvam AI
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Standout Innovators: Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, Skyroot Aerospace
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Standout Unicorn: Falguni Nayar, Nykaa
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Sustainability Leader: Hindustan Unilever
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MNC of the Year: ABB India
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MSME of the Year: Bella Casa Fashion & Retail
The selection process considered factors such as financial performance, shareholder returns, market value, corporate governance, innovation and sustainability.
Sitharaman’s Presence Adds Significance
Sitharaman’s participation comes ahead of the Union Budget expected in February 2027, which will be her tenth consecutive Budget presentation if delivered as scheduled.
Her address to India’s corporate leadership is expected to draw attention to the government’s economic priorities, investment environment and growth strategy.
The FE Leadership Awards seek to recognise businesses and entrepreneurs that are contributing to India’s evolving economic landscape, from established industrial groups to emerging technology and space-sector companies.
