Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Honors Industry Leaders at NDTV Profit Business Leadership Awards 2026
New Delhi – The Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presided over the NDTV Profit Business Leadership Awards 2026, presenting accolades to top executives and enterprises that have shaped India's industrial trajectory. Winners were selected after a rigorous evaluation by a distinguished jury chaired by Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises.
During the ceremony, Sitharaman highlighted the geopolitical tensions in West Asia, the disruption of energy and supply chains, and the weather-related challenges of El Niño and uneven monsoon patterns across the country. She praised Indian firms for maintaining resilience despite price volatility, geopolitical conflicts, and global uncertainty, noting continued investment, manufacturing, innovation, and job creation.
The minister also addressed concerns raised by student protests in Delhi, emphasizing the importance of listening to youth, fostering dialogue, and delivering timely solutions.
Key honours included the "India Business Icon" presented to Dilip Sanghvi, Executive Chairman of Sun Pharmaceuticals, and "Business Leader of the Year" awarded to Anish Shah, Group CEO and Managing Director of Mahindra Group. Captain Jagmohan (Retd.), Chairman and MD of Mazgaon Dock Shipbuilders, received the "Business Leader of the Year – PSU" award, while State Bank of India was named "Financial Powerhouse of the Year – PSU".
Godrej Properties, represented by chairman Nadir Godrej, earned the "Green Champion of the Year" title, and Falgu Nair, founder and CEO of Nykaa, was recognised as "Trailblazer of the Year". BSE received the "Wealth Creator of the Year" award, and Tata Electronics was honoured as "India Self-Reliance Champion" under the leadership of CEO Dr. Randhir Thakur.
The "Philanthropist of the Year" award went to Kirron Nadar for her social contributions, while Sr. Ravi Fine Finance was named "Financial Powerhouse of the Year" represented by its MD & CEO Parag Sharma. Sahil Barua, CEO and co‑founder of Delhivery, was declared "New Economy Leader of the Year". Finally, Servm AI received the "AI Champion of the Year" award, represented by co‑founder Dr. Vivek Raghavan.
NDTV CEO Rahul Khanwal remarked that the awards celebrate leadership that builds institutions, creates value, strengthens trust, and propels India's broader development journey.