That this seems an all-too familiar story only goes to show how overwhelmingly dominant the BJP remains, its shot at a third term in power marked by the same confidence — and thin skin — that was seen just ahead of the 2019 elections. The Opposition had seen a glimmer then, after some substantive Assembly wins.
Much water has flown under the bridge since then, with the BJP having wrested the states it lost to the Congress in 2019 — ensuring that for the seventh year running, Narendra Modi and Amit Shah remain No. 1 and 2 in the power list, with the top 10 comprising all RSS/BJP names, barring Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud and business titan Gautam Adani, who climbs up from No. 33 in his bounce-back from the Hindenburg controversy.
It’s only in the next 10 ranks that the Opposition comes in, with Mamata Banerjee at No. 15, just ahead of Rahul Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal. In the face of the BJP’s dominance, the three are here for their perseverance — the Trinamool Congress chief for holding her ground; the Congress leader for forging his own Yatra as his party crumbles; and the Aam Aadmi Party supremo for weathering the face-off with the Centre.
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Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and his Tamil Nadu counterpart MK Stalin rank in the high 20s for forging a front against the BJP, raising a Southern barrier the party is finding difficult to cross.
In a business world dominated by the Adanis and Ambanis, Azim Premji continues to stand apart, with his path-setting philanthropy taking him to No. 37, from 69 in 2023.
Neeraj Chopra, the Olympic gold medallist who continues to earn laurels on the field and off it —the javelin star’s family spoke up for his Pakistani rival — also makes an entry into the list. For how she defied powerful BJP leader Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in the Wrestling Federation of India, wrestler Vinesh Phogat plants her flag too.
A star who continues to script one of the greatest comeback stories, Shah Rukh Khan blazes his way up to No. 27. Take a pause here. For, the next face from entertainment is Alia Bhatt, at 79, followed closely by Deepika Padukone. If women are finally having their moment in Bollywood, these two lead the way.
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For the biggest stars and the biggest fallen stars of this power list, look elsewhere.
Halved-party leaders Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray are down 35-plus points to No. 94 and 95, respectively. While the one with the biggest boost, of 44 ranks, is Infosys founder Nandan Nilekani. Now headlining a government online initiative, Nilekani has done the near impossible — he has thrived across the UPA era to NDA. Fitting, given how his Aadhaar framework laid the foundation for the digital substack at the heart of this government’s promise of economic empowerment. A pointer, perhaps, to what should be the imperative of power in a deeply contested democracy — its ability to cut across fault-lines to shape and secure the common good.
1) Narendra Modi, 73
Prime Minister of India
Why
Because Prime Minister Narendra Modi has only grown taller and stronger — no PM has entered an election year, looking at another term, with so resounding a popularity. For his party, his “370-seat” call rides on the wave of two terms of his government that has ramped up welfare, kept growth ticking, moderated inflation and secured a special place for India in the world. All this backed by a formidable party machinery, deliveries on ideological promises, including abrogation of Article 370 and consecration of the Ram Temple. Most criticism — centralisation of power, use of agencies, undermining of institutions, shrinking space for dissent, minority representation — bounces off as he frames it as the rage of the Congress ancien regime.
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A double bill: the G20 summit where New Delhi secured a consensus at the global high table; and conducting the pran pratishtha at Ayodhya, sending a message, loud and clear, that to him the State’s engagement with religion was no breach of a line — he was only drawing a new one.
What Next
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Modi carries the burden of the NDA’s target of 400 seats in the upcoming general elections almost entirely on his shoulders. If he returns, what new chapters will he script in governance and politics towards his “promise” of making India the third-largest economy in the world? How he steers the wheel on delimitation, Centre-state relations and social harmony will shape his legacy.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @narendramodi 95.6M followers
2) Amit Shah, 59
Union Home Minister
Why
He may not be the BJP party chief but Amit Shah is its chief strategist, helming the party juggernaut as it powers through the Hindi heartland — Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh — and targets new territories, including the southern states and West Bengal. His long political-personal arc with the Prime Minister and its steady climb upward set the tone and tenor for the rank and file right from the very top.
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Shah piloted the three Bills that overhauled India’s British-era criminal justice system. While doing so, he linked the new laws to the “country’s pride”. Also, the BJP’s target of 370 seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls is a reference to that other Bill that Shah piloted in 2019 — the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act that resulted in the abrogation of Article 370, seen as the BJP’s most decisive move yet.
What Next
Despite leading the political narrative on the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, there has been a pause on its implementation. The crucial census and the NPR enumeration hang in balance. In J&K, Shah’s ministry and forces will have to check terrorist violence, now spreading to Jammu, and create conditions conducive for the political process to start. Manipur smoulders, remaining a stalled work in progress.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @AmitShah 34.5M followers
3) Mohan Bhagwat, 73
RSS Sarsanghchalak
Why
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Bhagwat is sarsanghchalak of the RSS when the Sangh Parivar celebrates its longest uninterrupted innings in power. Article 370 and the Ram Temple, its key ideological milestones, have been reached. With PM Modi underlining in his January 22 speech that the temple marks a journey from “Ram to Rashtra” and “Dev to Desh,” the RSS knows that a third term for the BJP means its influence is only going to touch more and more aspects of governance.
Power Punch
The presence of Bhagwat beside Modi as the PM conducted the pran pratishtha at the Ram Temple sent out a powerful signal. For a while now, Bhagwat has been trying to articulate a moderate face of the RSS as is evident in his reaching out to minorities and his January 22 speech, when he spoke of the need to show “hosh” (reason) amid the “josh” (passion) — an articulation that comes from a position of strength where the RSS sees its ideological projects as having come to fruition.
What Next
With the Sangh looking at a third term as its chance to consolidate and effect disruptive change, Bhagwat’s leadership of the RSS, which provides a significant number of foot soldiers for the BJP, will be crucial. The Sangh’s longstanding demand for a nationwide Uniform Civil Code is likely to get louder with Uttarakhand implementing it in the state.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
4) DY Chandrachud, 64
Chief Justice of India
Why
Blending erudition, sagacity and tact, Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud has led the Supreme Court in a fractious, polarised polity. In a crucial election year, with the Opposition fragmented, every observation, every verdict, is closely watched, including how he handles cases of judicial review, reshapes the collegium and the internal processes of judicial reform.
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The CJI-led Bench settled, once and for all, legal doubts over the integration of J&K into the Indian Union, ruling in favour of the Centre’s decision to abrogate Article 370. He gently but firmly put his foot down in favour of the basic structure doctrine. Amid criticism that the Supreme Court was too often giving the Executive a free pass, came its unanimous decision striking down electoral bonds.
What Next
His stint ends in November, six months into the new government’s term. The SC still has some significant cases pending, including the challenge to the amendments to the Citizenship Act.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
5) S Jaishankar, 69
Minister of External Affairs
Why
Almost five years into his job as Union External Affairs Minister, the thinker-diplomat-politician has emerged as the Modi government’s most articulate voice on the global stage. His sharp retorts — “India imports less oil from Russia in a month than Europe does in an afternoon”, to asserting that India’s purchase policies played a key role in stabilising the global oil and gas markets and he was “waiting for the thank you” — shaped India’s “international power” image. To his party’s delight and advantage, he has brought high diplomacy to YouTube and Instagram. The Israel-Hamas war, however, tested India’s diplomacy, with the government having to qualify its ringing endorsem*nt of Israel by later adopting a more balanced position.
Power Punch
As the US accused an Indian official of plotting to kill Khalistan separatist GS Pannun, Jaishankar worked the phones and held in-person meetings with the Americans. This was in contrast to India’s much sharper response to Canada’s allegations. His understanding of big-power politics helped him tide over the crisis.
What Next
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Will he contest the Lok Sabha elections? And in the event of a Modi 3.0, will he return as the country’s foreign minister?
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @DrSJaishankar 3M followers
6) Yogi Adityanath, 51
Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh
Why
Because as Chief Minister of the state with the largest number of Lok Sabha constituencies, Yogi Adityanath is the man in the hottest of hot electoral seats. Will he deliver to his party the cleanest of sweeps in 2024 in the 80 seats from the state? As mahant of the Gorakhnath math, he combines his spiritual authority with his political might. Several CMs, including some in Opposition states, have borrowed from his controversial ‘bulldozer justice’ template.
Power Punch
Soon after the successful completion of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony came Ground-Breaking Ceremony 4.0, which saw the launch of over 14,000 projects worth over Rs 10 lakh crore — a promise ahead of the elections that under Adityanath, the government will deliver on faith and development.
What Next
The Lok Sabha polls, followed by the Assembly in 2027. As CM, he has been saying that he wants to make UP the largest economy of India, in absolute terms in the next three years.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @myogiadityanath 27.7M followers
7) Rajnath Singh, 72
Minister of Defence
Why
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Rajnath Singh has wide administrative and political experience and has been the PM’s seniormost colleague in the Cabinet. Having served both as a defence and home minister, he has a comprehensive view on national security. Known to be dependable and self-effacing, both in good times and in crisis, Singh enjoys goodwill among politicians across party lines. His unflagging energy is evident in the multiple trips he makes to countries as part of defence diplomacy and his participation in domestic events such as Aero India and DefExpo. He is also one of the seniors who is holding back channel talks to resolve issues with farmers.
Power Punch
As a trouble-shooter for the BJP and the government, Singh’s intervention was sought to avoid any embarrassment for the party after it won the Rajasthan elections. Amid speculation that Vasundhara Raje could put her foot down on the choice of chief minister, it was Singh who stepped in to implement the party’s decision to have a new leadership in the state.
What Next
He is keen on building atma nirbharta in defence and increasing India’s defence exports.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @rajnathsingh 24 M followers
8) Nirmala Sitharaman, 64
Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs
Why
As India’s first full-time and the longest serving woman finance minister, Sitharaman has been credited for presenting a fiscally prudent Budget just before elections. Under her leadership, the Indian economy has registered seven per cent-plus growth rate for three years in a row, inflation has been managed and the stage is set for capex spends and private investment. All this in the backdrop of global headwinds and a slowing down of the world economy.
Power Punch
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With the latest presentation of the interim Budget for 2024-25, Sitharaman has now presented six consecutive budgets as Finance Minister, equalling the record set by Morarji Desai and breaking the five-budget-in-a-row record of former finance ministers Manmohan Singh, Yashwant Sinha, P Chidambaram and Arun Jaitley.
What Next
Sitharaman will need to strike a fine balance maintaining the growth momentum amid the persistent risk from elevated inflation.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @nsitharaman 5.4M followers
9) J P Nadda, 63
BJP national president
Why
As the man leading the BJP organisation into the Lok Sabha elections, J P Nadda has his task cut out. In a party with Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, Nadda has held his own and gained the trust of the leadership and the rank and file, without coming across as someone trying to overproject himself. He has also switched gears — hard or soft — depending on the need of the hour.
Power Punch
In the recent Assembly elections to five states, seen as the semi-final to the Lok Sabha polls, the BJP under his leadership won convincingly in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, where exit polls had predicted a tight contest. The party also won Chhattisgarh, where it was seen as lagging behind the Congress during the campaign. In West Bengal, where the party is locked in a tough fight with the TMC for political space, Nadda has taken the gloves off. For instance, after the Sandeshkhali incident, he promptly constituted a high-powered BJP committee under Union minister Annapurna Devi to file a report on the allegations of rape made by women in Sandeshkhali.
What Next
Nadda, who has been renominated to the Rajya Sabha, will focus all his energies on the BJP’s campaign for the Lok Sabha polls as the party aims to return to power for the third time.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @JPNadda 3.6M followers
10) Gautam Adani, 61
Chairman, Adani Group
Why
Gautam Adani is the second richest person in India with a net worth of $101 billion. Under Adani, the group has made rapid progress in various infrastructure sectors such as cement, power, airport, green energy, ports, power and gas distribution through a string of acquisitions and greenfield projects. Opposition parties have accused him of being close to the ruling establishment at the Centre.
Power Punch
When Hindenburg Research came out with a report last year, alleging “brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud” in the group, his companies faced setbacks, shares crashed and a mega IPO was pulled out. However, a year later, the group has bounced back, its share prices have recovered.
What Next
The Adani Group is planning to invest Rs 7 lakh crore in ports, power, green energy and airports. With entry into media, it plans to expand its footprints — and shape the “narrative” around itself.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @gautam_adani 1M followers
11) Mukesh Ambani, 66
Chairman and Managing Director, RIL
Why
Mukesh Ambani is the richest Indian with a net worth of US $109 billion, according to Bloomberg Billionaires Index. He has strengthened the flagship Reliance Industries (RIL) through his focus on new energy, reorganisation and succession planning. Market capitalisation of RIL recently touched Rs 20 lakh crore, making it the most-valued listed company in the country. BharatGPT, backed by RIL, is now all set to launch an artificial intelligence model for India, named Hanooman.
Power Punch
Ambani demerged his financial services arm — Jio Financial Services (JFS) — and listed it on stock exchanges. JFS is now planning to enter the mutual fund segment. He brought his children to the board of RIL and has given them key positions in the group. While Akash handles the digital segment (Jio), daughter Isha heads the retail arm and Anant, the energy business.
What Next
Ambani is likely to spin off RIL’s subsidiaries Jio Platform and the retail arm into separate entities and list them on the stock exchanges. He is also constructing the Dhirubhai Ambani Green Energy Giga Complex over 5,000 acres in Jamnagar, which will be the world’s largest integrated renewable energy manufacturing facility.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
12) Piyush Goyal, 59
Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Textiles, and Leader of the House, Rajya Sabha
Why
Piyush Goyal is among the top leaders of the BJP and is currently Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha besides heading three ministries — Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Textiles. Goyal was also seen as the firefighter for the government when he led the negotiations with the farmer leaders after they decided to hit the streets demanding a Minimum Support Prices (MSP) law.
Power Punch
After a lull of nearly a decade, India signed two free trade agreements (FTAs) with UAE and Australia and is in the progress of signing more deals that could boost Indian exports to newer geographies.
What Next
India could sign a trade deal with the UK, Oman and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) before the dates for the general elections are announced. Goyal needs to pursue a careful and calibrated approach while negotiating FTAs to ensure they are fair, equitable and balanced. India is also expected to take up the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) issue ‘very strongly’ with the European Union.
Social media quotient
X: @PiyushGoyal 12M followers
13) Ashwini Vaishnaw, 53
Minister of Railways, Telecom and IT
Why
In a short time, Ashwini Vaishnaw has established himself as one of the most important ministers in the Union Cabinet and achieved major infrastructure and regulatory milestones across all his three portfolios of Railways, Telecom and IT. He was recently renominated to the Rajya Sabha for a second term.
Power Punch
After a clean auction of 5G airwaves, India raced to deploy more than four lakh 5G towers in 15 months. This is among the fastest rollouts of such communication infrastructure. He held meetings with top tech companies in the US to persuade them to invest in India and is believed to have been instrumental in Micron Technology’s plans to set up a chip plant in the country.
What Next
After a major crash involving multiple trains in Odisha, Vaishnaw was on the ground, leading the recovery work. However, the incident again put the limelight on railway safety and security, which would be a key task for him going ahead, including quickly rolling out the Kavach anti-collision system for as many trains as possible. He also has to ensure a smooth rollout of Vande Bharat metro and sleeper versions and chase up the groundwork for the first stretch of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed train from Billimora to Surat.
Social media quotient
X: @AshwiniVaishnaw 1.4M followers
14) Himanta Biswa Sarma, 55
Chief Minister, Assam
Why
Both active and combative on social media, Himanta Biswa Sarma is one of the most talked-about CMs in the country and the face of the BJP in the Northeast, a region where the party did not have much of a presence till recently. Sarma’s footprint can also be felt beyond the region now, with the BJP using him as an integral part of its campaign in other state elections.
Power Punch
After Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra took off from conflict-ridden Manipur, in a pointed message to the Modi government, Sarma ensured it had a tough run through Assam, keeping it embroiled in disputes. Recently, the Assam CM played a key role in the peace accord signed between the ULFA’s pro-talks faction and the Centre. Sarma had multiple rounds of formal and informal discussions with its leaders to bring them on board.
What Next
The only BJP CM who is a part of the party’s key Lok Sabha election strategy committee and joining committee, Sarma is expected to be a key weapon for the party against Rahul.
Social media quotient
X: @himantabiswa 2.3M followers
15) Mamata Banerjee, 69
Chief Minister, West Bengal; TMC chief
Why
Banerjee is currently the only woman CM and one of the most powerful Opposition leaders. A staunch critic of the BJP-led government at the Centre, the TMC supremo followed up on her victory against the BJP in the 2021 Assembly polls with a landslide win in panchayat polls in the state last year.
Power Punch
Refusing to yield on her decision to leave only two Lok Sabha seats for the Congress in the coming elections, Mamata took the call to go it alone in the state. Accusing the Congress of acting under the influence of the Left, she again established that the BJP’s heat on her notwithstanding, she could not be taken for granted.
What Next
Under constant attack from the BJP and the Left-Congress alliance in the state over corruption allegations and charges of highhandedness towards Opposition workers, Mamata has a point to prove in the coming Lok Sabha elections. The results are likely to set the tone for the 2026 Assembly polls, with the BJP expected to turn the screws in if it makes further gains from its surprising 18-Lok Sabha seat haul in 2019.
Social media quotient
X: @MamataOfficial 7.3M followers
16) Rahul Gandhi, 53
Congress leader, MP
Why
A reversal of (mis)fortune for the Congress is key to the Opposition countering the BJP’s march. So all eyes, even those of his reluctant allies, are on Rahul Gandhi. Pilloried by critics, often called his party’s problem rather than the solution, as electoral success continues to elude him, Rahul has his challenge framed. His is the most consistent political voice against the BJP/RSS and PM Narendra Modi. How much of an echo it has will only be known come elections as he works to put the first pieces of the INDIA coalition into place.
Power Punch
His decision to embark on the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on the eve of the Lok Sabha elections was presented as a fait accompli to the Congress Working Committee. Many in the Opposition INDIA bloc and some within the Congress felt the timing was inappropriate, but the party had no option but to agree.
What Next
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are a crucial battle for Rahul, who has now been at the helm of affairs in the Congress since Modi’s rise. The party hopes to cross the three-digit mark, with even its hopeful well-wishers not dreaming of a win. Another overwhelming defeat — the third, after 44 seats in 2014, and 52 in 2019 — could wreck the Congress and damage Rahul irrevocably.
Social media quotient
X: @RahulGandhi 25M followers
17) Ajit Doval, 79
National Security Advisor
Why
After a decade in the Modi government, Ajit Doval remains among the Prime Minister’s most trusted aides on matters of security and diplomacy. His advice is regularly sought by the government while making key appointments in Central police organisations. Apart from shaping India’s policy on Pakistan and China, Doval has played a key role in building India’s relations in the Gulf. Now, he has the onerous task of finding a way out of the diplomatic tough spot with Canada and the US, amid accusations by the two countries of Indian agents trying to carry out assassinations in their territories. Doval will also have an eye on China, which is determined to firm up a new status quo on the Line of Actual Control.
Power Punch
The release of eight former Naval officers facing the death row in Qatar is said to have been worked out by Doval in close coordination with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, under the directions of Modi. India’s willingness to deal with the Taliban in Afghanistan is also understood to have been influenced by the NSA’s understanding of pragmatic regional politics.
What Next
The key question in a Modi 3.0 government will be whether Doval will stay on as the NSA. He turns 80 next year.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
18) Arvind Kejriwal, 55
Chief Minister, Delhi ; AAP Supremo
Why
Arvind Kejriwal helms the youngest national party in the country, with its presence in the legislatures of Delhi, Punjab, Gujarat and Goa. By forging an alliance with the Congress in Delhi for the Lok Sabha polls, Kejriwal is looking to further his influence.
Power Punch
His trusted deputy and senior colleagues in jail for alleged corruption, Kejriwal has stood firm returning to the AAP’s core issues like power, water and education in tune with his goal of providing everyone with “baseline” facilities for free. As the Enforcement Directorate tightens the net around him in the Delhi excise policy probe, Kejriwal’s refrain has been how the Centre is using agencies to tie him down. And how leaders crossing over to the BJP get the whitewash “clean chit.”
What Next
The BJP won all seven seats in the Capital in 2014 and 2019. In Punjab, where it is also in power, the AAP has decided to go alone. How the party fares in the Lok Sabha polls will impact its national standing. The stand-off between him and the ED, where the matter is in court after he has skipped six summons sent by the agency, will also have a significant impact on the party and its governments in Delhi and Punjab.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @ArvindKejriwal 27.3M followers
19) Shaktikanta Das, 67
Governor, Reserve Bank of India
Why
Shaktikanta Das took over charge of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in December 2018. As the 25th Governor of the RBI, he has been guiding the monetary policy and banking sector efficiently for more than five years. Under his leadership, the Indian economy has come out of various domestic and global challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ukraine-Russia war and conflict in the Middle East, with minimal impact.
Power Punch
Das has taken bold measures to ensure a stable macro-economic environment. He has brought in critical reforms in banking, NBFCs (non-banking financial companies) and fintech sectors, which have strengthened the domestic financial system. After raising the repo rate by 250 basis points between May 2022 and February 2023, Das has not hiked the key policy rate last year. This has given some respite to borrowers as the interest rates on their home or vehicle or personal loans have not risen. Noting that “navigating the ‘last mile’ of disinflation could be sticky,” he doesn’t believe in premature moves.
What Next
The key challenge for Das in 2024 will be to bring consumer price-based inflation to the four per cent target while also supporting growth.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @DasShaktikanta 220.7K followers
20) Hardeep Singh Puri, 72
Union Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs and Petroleum & Natural Gas
Why
In his capacity as the Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister, and amid criticism from some European countries, Hardeep Puri has staunchly defended India’s high oil imports from Russia, since the war in Ukraine began two years ago. He asserted that India’s energy needs are the government’s priority and should not be mixed with geopolitics. As the Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, Puri oversaw the construction of the new Parliament building, which was inaugurated on May 28, 2023.
Power Punch
Over the past year, Puri has seen through two high-profile projects, the new Parliament and the Bharat Mandapam convention centre that hosted the G20 Summit in Delhi last September.
What Next
The Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry under Puri is getting ready to complete the Common Central Secretariat and the new Prime Minister’s Office and PM’s residence.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @HardeepSPuri 602.5K followers
21) Sanjiv Khanna, 64
Supreme Court Judge
Why
Due to be Chief Justice of India in November 2024, his six-month tenure, in the first year of the new government, will be keenly watched.
Power Punch
Elevated from the Delhi High Court, he is among the few to enter the Supreme Court without becoming a Chief Justice of a High Court. He was part of the Bench that ruled on a hate speech FIR against a journalist saying that in a plural world, “hate speech cannot conceivably contribute in any legitimate way to democracy and, in fact, repudiates the right to equality.” He was part of the Bench that cleared the Central Vista Project. He was on the Constitution Bench upholding the abrogation of Article 370 and striking down the 2018 electoral bonds scheme.
What Next
As he steps into the large shoes of his predecessor, he will have to maintain a fine balance between judicial independence and the government’s concerns. As CJI, he will make recommendations to fill up at least two vacancies of judges that are expected to come up in his tenure.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
22) Siddaramaiah, 76
Chief Minister, Karnataka
Why
The senior Congress leader became Karnataka Chief Minister for the second time in May 2023. He helped the Congress win 135 of 224 Assembly seats. Siddaramaiah, with his organisational control, will play an important role if the Congress wants to outperform the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections in the state. In 2019, the BJP had won 26 of the state’s 28 Lok Sabha seats, including Mandya that was won by an Independent backed by the party.
Power Punch
Siddaramaiah remains one of the tallest leaders in the faction-ridden Karnataka Congress. After the elections, he overcame a strong challenge from state Congress president D K Shivakumar for the Chief Minister’s post. With the support of over 80 per cent of Congress MLAs as well as the party high command, he clinched the top job. Shivakumar became Deputy Chief Minister. A member of the Kuruba community, he is crucial to the Congress’s OBC outreach in the state.
What Next
A strong performance for the Congress in the Lok Sabha polls in the state will not only be invaluable for the party, it will also help Siddaramaiah strengthen his hold on the CM’s chair for a full five-year tenure even as Shivakumar will push for a change after two-and-a-half years.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @siddaramaiah 1M followers
23) MansukhMandaviya, 51
Minister of Health and Family Welfare; Chemicals and Fertilisers
Why
As Health Minister, he has been responsible for implementing the government’s flagship schemes such as the Ayushman Bharat health insurance and launching Janaushadhi Kendras, centres which provide quality medicines at affordable prices. With a goal of ensuring that Ayushman Bharat cards reach beneficiaries, he’s part of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra. Over 2.6 crore cards have been issued and over 10,000 Janaushadhi Kendras set up, which he hopes to increase to 25,000. These have been estimated to have helped people and saved nearly Rs 25,000 crore in 10 years.
Power Punch
Mandaviya has pushed for indigenous manufacturing, research and development. As chemicals and fertiliser minister, he is pushing for self-sufficiency with nano urea and nano DAP.
What Next
He wants to roll out a CoWIN-like vaccine management platform for other shots across the country. The government will also focus on improving medical education by setting up more colleges, ensuring faculty availability through digital systems and introducing a licentiate examination.
Social media quotient
X: @mansukhmandviya 637.7K followers
24) Nitish Kumar, 73
Chief Minister, Bihar
Why
Having switched alliances for the fifth time in over a decade and returning to the NDA in January, Nitish Kumar continues to hold on to the top job in the state despite his party’s shrinking electoral footprint. At present, his Janata Dal (United) is third behind the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the BJP in terms of its Assembly tally. Nitish’s political acumen and ability to manoeuvre his party have seen him become Bihar’s longest-serving Chief Minister.
Power Punch
Nitish may well have punctured the INDIA bloc of Opposition parties. Last year, he took the initiative to bring them together against the BJP. With Nitish back in its camp, the BJP-led NDA will feel confident of its social combination trumping that of the Mahagathbandhan and improving its tally. Whether he is with the BJP or the RJD, Nitish has maintained his primacy in Bihar’s tripolar politics for 18 years now.And still seems to be retaining his core Kurmi votebase. Besides, he is among chief ministers who have scored on the development index.
What Next
Nitish’s immediate goal will be to win a good number of seats in the Lok Sabha elections, so that he can increase his leverage and remain politically relevant.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @NitishKumar 8.5M followers
25) MK Stalin, 70
Chief Minister, Tamil Nadu
Why
After the death of his father and DMK founder M Karunanidhi,MK Stalin has emerged as the party’s undisputed leader. Under his stewardship, the DMK secured major electoral victories in the Lok Sabha elections in 2019 and the Assembly polls in 2021. He is also a key Opposition face nationally, the DMK being a major constituent of the INDIA alliance. He has been consistent about protecting the federal nature of the Indian polity.
Power Punch
Stalin could play a vital role in the national Opposition landscape, given his rapport with several chief ministers, from Kerala’s Pinarayi Vijayan to Delhi’s Arvind Kejriwal. He has spoken for unity among regional parties to forge a formidable front against the BJP and registered protests against the Centre over issues such as delimitation. He has stood by protesting farmers, saying while the BJP has been attacking them, the DMK government in Tamil Nadu has been drafting programmes for their welfare. Furthermore, his tenure has been marked by an absence of significant controversies.
What Next
The DMK is focusing on consolidating its voter base in Tamil Nadu. In partnership with the Congress, the Left and other smaller outfits, it looks like the tide is in its favour in the state.
Social media quotient
X: @mkstalin 3.7M followers
26) Nita Ambani, 60
Chairperson and founder, Reliance Foundation
Why
India’s only member in the International Olympic Committee (IOC), her stature increased multifold after successfully hosting the IOC session, the sporting equivalent of Davos. An educationist, philanthropist, businesswoman, arts patron, she is an IPL team and football league owner, who is at the front and centre of a rapidly growing Indian sports industry.
Power Punch
Ambani envisioned the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC), a sprawling cultural hub in Mumbai that showcases varied art forms. It has become the one-stop destination for artists, both Indian and international, with Broadway-style musicals and showstopping exhibitions. The all-important IOC Session, where India made clear its ambitions to host the 2036 Olympics, was also hosted at the Reliance-owned Jio World Centre in Mumbai last October. PM Modi formally announced India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics here.
What Next
The country will be setting up an ‘India House’ in Paris to push its case for hosting the Games and Ambani is believed to be personally involved in its planning.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
27) Shah Rukh Khan, 58
Actor
Why
It’s rare for any movie star to bounce back after a five-year trough but Shah Rukh Khan did that with elan, and in the process, pulled the Hindi film industry out of the post-Covid slump. Not only that, he sealed his position as a cinematic legend, helming three larger-than-life roles in back-to-back films consistently. A smart businessman and a sought-after brand ambassador, he almost has first citizen status in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Power Punch
Both Pathaan and Jawan went on to make massive earnings worldwide and created new records for Hindi cinema. Dunki, paler by comparison, still did over Rs 200 crore. He got his fans back to theatres and as the cigar-smoking Vikram Rathore in Jawan, laid the template for an ageless Hollywoodian superhero.
What Next
Khan is likely to play his own age in an action thriller called King, where he will co-star with daughter Suhana Khan. There’s India’s biggest action film, Tiger v/s Pathaan, with Salman Khan. He’s likely to work with more directors from the South.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @iamsrk 44M followers
28) Natarajan Chandrasekaran, 60
Chairperson, Tata Group
Why
The Chairperson of the Tata Group, a conglomerate with a combined market capitalisation of $337 billion, N Chandrasekaran is also a former CEO of Tata Consultancy Services, India’s largest IT company. Under his leadership, the group has undertaken the 3S strategy — simplification, synergy and scale — to consolidate its myriad businesses.
Power Punch
Among the highest paid corporate executives in India, with a remuneration of Rs 113 crore in FY23, Chandrasekaran is responsible for revitalising Air India, expanding the group’s footprint in the consumer space through big-ticket acquisitions and digitising its industrial operations. His role in overseeing the group’s committed capex of $90 billion over the next few years cannot be understated. The group has become the first Indian iPhone assembler.
What Next
Manufacturing 5G equipment, setting up a 20 gigawatt factory for lithium-ion batteries in Gujarat and integrating services of all group companies in a super app, Tata Neu, are set to define the group’s future.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
29) Sonia Gandhi, 77
Senior Congress leader
Why
Despite Mallikarjun Kharge holding the reins of the Congress and Rahul Gandhi being its face, Sonia’s is still the last word in the party. Health concerns might have led to her deciding not to contest in the Lok Sabha elections but the fact that she will be a Rajya Sabha MP shows she will very much remain in public life. The Congress will value that presence as Sonia remains a respected figure across the Opposition spectrum. This will be crucial as the Congress irons out differences over seat-sharing with allies.
Power Punch
After the Telangana Congress leadership opposed Y S Sharmila’s entry into the party, as did the Andhra unit, it was Sonia who ensured she joined the party and persuaded her to focus on Andhra — even if that pitted her against her estranged brother and Andhra Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.
What Next
Given her health, she may not campaign for the elections, but, an active parliamentarian, Sonia is expected to take her duties in the Rajya Sabha seriously. And in the not-very likely scenario of the Lok Sabha elections throwing up a fractured mandate, she will be in the thick of the political action.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
30) Rahul Navin, 56
Acting Director, Enforcement Directorate
Why
Rahul Navin, the seniormost officer in the Enforcement Directorate (ED), is officiating as the director of the agency following the retirement of Sanjay Mishra in September last year. The ED has been accused of targeting leaders of the Opposition and whitewashing those who cross over. Mishra set the momentum, Navin is keeping pace.
Power Punch
Under Navin, for the first time, the agency literally chased a sitting chief minister, Hemant Soren, over charges of money laundering and arrested him minutes after his resignation. It is now pursuing Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, who, like Soren, has been defying ED summons. Many Opposition politicians who have joined the BJP in the past few years have ED cases against them.
What Next
Navin has the onerous task of ensuring the credibility of the agency. To that effect, he will have to prosecute corruption cases irrespective of party lines and hold accountable ED staff accused of alleged extortion. It is learnt that he and his predecessor share a good relationship and Navin continues to seek Mishra’s guidance.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
31) Bhupender Yadav, 54
Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Why
Bhupender Yadav played an important role in the BJP’s victories in the 2023 Assembly elections, including in his home state of Rajasthan. As the election in-charge of Madhya Pradesh, he led efforts to ensure the BJP held on to power in the key Hindi heartland state. As the Environment Minister, Yadav led negotiations at the global climate talks to safeguard India’s interests. India also pledged to reach net zero emissions by 2070 at COP26 in 2021. India’s climate actions were rated the fourth strongest in an annual performance index released by Germanwatch in 2023, up one place from the previous year.
Power Punch
MP polls, the challenge of anti-incumbency, took much of Yadav’s time in 2023; the BJP victory was his most satisfying moment.
What Next
He is part of the party’s high-level team that finalises strategies for the general elections. His current ministerial portfolio will also be one of the most sought after since India is planning to host the global climate conference in 2028.
Social media quotient
X: @byadavbjp 575.3K followers
32) Anurag Thakur, 49
Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Sports and Youth Affairs
Why
As Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Thakuris the voice of the government, communicating important policy decisions, setting the narrative and doing damage control in adverse situations. His portfolio of Youth and Sports Affairs makes him key to the government’s efforts to gain traction among the youth as the BJP eyes the support of over two crore first-time voters in the upcoming elections.
Power Punch
In the 24×7 cycle of social media, he has fielded, many a time at instant notice, to counter tough opponents. He enjoys a rapport with the new leadership in states by virtue of his long association with the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), of which he was the president.
What Next
As part of preparations for 2024 polls, the BJP has shortlisted some constituencies as tough seats. Thakur has the responsibility of such seats in Maharashtra. He has also been tasked with helping the BJP win in his home turf of Himachal Pradesh, which the party lost in the 2022 Assembly elections.
Social media quotient
X: @ianuragthakur 2.4M followers
33) Dharmendra Pradhan, 54
Minister of Education
Why
Dharmendra Pradhan has been spearheading the Centre’s effort to execute the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020, since assuming office as Education Minister in 2021. He is the fourth minister to hold the portfolio since the BJP came to power in 2014. He also holds the key Skill Development and Entrepreneurship portfolio that has gained importance under NEP 2020. Pradhan is one of the most-respected leaders among the party cadre.
Power Punch
Pradhan oversaw measures to mitigate learning losses due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) was introduced during his term and the National Credit Framework (NCrF) is also being rolled out under his watch.
What Next
The largest revision of school textbooks based on the new NCF is underway and several textbooks are expected to be ready this year. As he prepares to contest the Lok Sabha election from Odisha, he will have to establish himself as the face of the BJP in the state.
Social media quotient
X: @dpradhanbjp 1.9M followers
34) Dattatreya Hosabale, 69
General Secretary, RSS
Why
Ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, Hosabale, as the executive head of the RSS, will remain a crucial figure mobilising cadres to bolster the BJP’s campaign. He has his headquarters in Lucknow and will be expected to deliver a rich electoral harvest in the Hindi heartland.
Power Punch
Though elections are scheduled this year within the RSS,Hosabaleis expected to be retained as Sarkaryawah given that next year the Sangh will be celebrating its centenary. Under Hosabale, the RSS has been able to considerably expand its influence in south India, where the BJP is still considered to be weak. While he continues to influence government policy on key issues and has a say in appointments in educational institutions, he has been consistently underlining growing economic inequality in the country and rising unemployment as matters of great concern. Hosabale, like Bhagwat, has a direct line with the PM.
What Next
In the backdrop of the caste census demand, the RSS launched the samajik samrasta (social harmony) programme to create a narrative of Hindu society being one. Its success would be watched for its impact on polls.
Social media quotient
X: @DattaHosabale 68.3K followers
35) Jay Shah, 35
BCCI secretary
Why
Easily the most powerful man in world cricket, BCCI secretary Jay Shah has strengthened India’s claim of influencing every decision that the sport takes. Son of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Jay launched the Women’s Premier League and led the way in successfully conducting last year’s 50-over World Cup. He was also instrumental in taking cricket to the Olympics.
Power Punch
Already the youngest Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief, he is in line to become the International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman. Shah played a big role in the BCCI’s share of ICC’s revenues nearly doubling — from 22.8 per cent to 38.5 per cent. This means the BCCI will now get $231 million annually from the international body. The BCCI secretary also got his way during last year’s Asia Cup, refusing to allow India to travel to Pakistan and forcing the hosts to travel to a neutral venue to play India. Shah has unprecedented control over the BCCI that was once known for its intense power struggles and factional fighting.
What Next
Set to be the ICC chairman this year, he will decide the course cricket takes as it enters the world’s biggest sports market — the US where cricket takes its first serious step this year with the World T20 in June.
Social media quotient
Instagram: @jayshah220988 600K followers
36) Mallikarjun Kharge, 81
President, Indian National Congress
Why
As the leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha after the 2014 polls, Kharge made his mark as a forceful voice in a House where his party was reduced to its lowest tally of 44 seats. Since winning the party president post in 2022, he has pulled his weight, most recently, in picking the party’s Tamil Nadu chief.
Power Punch
At the INDIA bloc meetings held a couple of months ago to work out the creases in the alliance, some of the members hinted that they might not be averse to him as the face of the group. Kharge, as a credible Dalit face, was seen as carrying enough heft at a time when the INDIA bloc was making social justice its main poll plank.
What Next
With the INDIA bloc disintegrating and several big ticket names exiting the Congress, the biggest challenge before Kharge is to resolve seat-sharing tussles and stitch together a credible campaign against the BJP in the coming Lok Sabha elections. Party leaders say Rahul’s Yatra has been a boon in that sense, hogging the limelight, letting Kharge work quietly behind the scenes.
Social media quotient
X: @kharge 595.5K followers
37) Azim Premji, 78
Founder, Wipro
Why
Former chairman of IT major Wipro, Azim Premji far outshines other Indian billionaires when it comes to philanthropy. After becoming the first Indian to sign the ‘Giving Pledge’, which encourages wealthy individuals to pledge half their fortunes to philanthropy in 2013, Premji has pledged a record $7.6 billion stake in Wipro to the Azim Premji Foundation, that funds NGOs, works for marginalised people and facilitates primary education in India.
Power Punch
Over the years, Azim Premji has invested in several startups across sectors, including GlobalBees that has achieved unicorn status. Wipro is one of the biggest IT companies in India with a market cap of over Rs 2,79,000 crore. The company signed a massive Rs 8,286-crore deal with Intel Foundry this year for chip designs that will be used by customers in the automotive, industrial and telecoms verticals and in generative AI-driven designs.
What Next
The Premji-led Azim Premji Foundation this year secured 150 acres in Jharkhand’s Ranchi for development of one of the biggest educational hubs in the country. The foundation will also work with the state government in various other sectors for sustainable development.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
38) Virat Kohli, 35
India batsman
Why
He is no longer the Indian captain nor an important decision-maker but there is no bigger name in Indian cricket than Virat Kohli. After battling a tough couple of years with the bat, Kohli found his second wind in 2023, repositioning himself as the best of his generation. Be it against Pakistan at the Asia Cup or right through the World Cup, when he became the first batsman to score 50 ODI centuries, Kohli once again made it a habit to score runs when India needed him the most.
Power Punch
There is no bigger brand in cricket than Kohli. With 266 million followers on Instagram, he has unparalleled power to influence opinions and habits. At most stadiums where India plays, fans with Kohli T-shirts are in a majority. There is a drop in the decibel level in the stands when Kohli is missing. Hence, broadcasters pray for Kohli’s presence at all games India plays. He also enjoys great respect from his peers and former players around the world.
What Next
A World T20 trophy this year will help him silence the voices that question his form in ICC event knockout games. His other challenge will be to guide the next generation of cricketers.
Social media quotient
Instagram: @virat.kohli 266 M followers
39) Anumula Revanth Reddy, 54
Chief Minister, Telangana
Why
Revanth Reddy is the first CM of Telangana from the Congress. He almost single-handedly led the party’s turnaround in the Assembly elections last year, dislodging the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government. Within days of taking oath, he launched four of the six guarantees that his party had promised. His government has been claiming to unravel alleged financial irregularities in projects launched by the BRS government.
Power Punch
Having joined the Congress from the TDP in October 2017, Reddy fought competition within the party to become the state Congress chief. His power-packed speeches have made him one of the most popular leaders in state, overshadowing KCR.
What Next
Reddy needs to manoeuvre the state out of financial distress, caused by the alleged overspending on welfare schemes and projects of the previous BRS government. He also needs to ensure availability of funds to implement the Congress’s six guarantees.
Social media quotient
X: @revanth_anumula 509.8K followers
40) Vinai KumarSaxena, 65
Lieutenant Governor, Delhi
Why
From taking charge of the Capital’s administration following an Ordinance, which later became a law, bringing the bureaucracy in the city under his direct control, to hitting the ground first for G20 Summit preparations and then overseeing its smooth execution, VK Saxena has been in the driver’s seat in the Capital.
Power Punch
Strongly worded letters to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal holding Delhi government departments to book — that too publicly — and signing off on action against bureaucrats, government officials and AAP leaders for “irregularities”, Saxena has regularly made headlines in a state that is governed by a party with an overwhelming legislative majority.
What Next
Several of Saxena’s ideas, including a scheme for village development, anti-encroachment drives across the city and demolition of premises linked to alleged drug peddlers, are being implemented since he was placed at the helm of services above its elected government. The AAP’s challenge to the Central law will be closely watched by everyone, especially Saxena, as it directly affects his role in the Capital’s governance.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
+++
41) Uday Kotak, 64
Non-Executive Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank
Why
As founder and director of the Kotak Mahindra Bank, Uday Kotak is one of the wealthiest bankers in the country, with a net worth of $13.3 billion, as per the Forbes Billionaires List. He launched a non-banking finance company, Kotak Mahindra Finance, in 1985, which was later converted into a commercial bank in 2003.
Power Punch
Kotak has played a pivotal role in the success of the Kotak Mahindra group in the last 38 years. It has emerged as a diversified and integrated financial services conglomerate, with a presence in various financial services such as banking, asset management, alternate asset management, life and general insurance, stock broking, investment banking, microfinance and asset reconstruction. Kotak Mahindra has become the fourth largest private sector lender in the country. Throughout his career, Kotak has been vocal about issues facing the banking sector and the financial sector regulations. He was one of the few who spoke about his concerns on demonetisation.
What Next
Kotak voluntarily decided to step down as the Managing Director and CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank in September 2023, four months ahead of the end of his tenure.
Social media quotient
X: @udaykotak 1.1M followers
42) Nandan Nilekani, 68
Co-founder and Chairman of the Board, Infosys
Why
Nandan Nilekani, who co-founded technology mammoth Infosys in 1981 and currently serves as its chairman, has had a far-reaching impact on India’s digital public infrastructure. As the chairman of the UIDAI in its formative years of 2009-2014, Nilekani is seen as the founding father of Aadhaar, India’s biometric-based national identity card programme.
Power Punch
Nilekani has been a vocal advocate of employing technology-based governance delivery systems and digital public infrastructure (DPI) for India to achieve its economic, social and environmental ambitions. India has developed enviable digital public infrastructure over the past few years and Nilekani has been among its key architects.
What Next
Nilekani co-founded Beckn that is behind the government-backed Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), which is being developed as an alternative to e-commerce giants operating in India. A scale-up of ONDC and wider adoption of the Beckn protocol will be keenly watched.
Social media quotient
X: @NandanNilekani 2.4 M followers
43) Anand Mahindra, 68
Chairman, the Mahindra Group
Why
Anand Mahindra, non-executive chairman of Mahindra & Mahindra with a net worth of over $2 billion, has led the company to become one of the largest vehicle manufacturers by production in India. He ranked 91 in the annual richest list published by Forbes magazine in 2022.
He played a key role in transforming the company into a global brand. Under Mahindra, the group also got a makeover with the introduction of a new logo in 2000 and the same year saw the launch of Mahindra Bolero and then Mahindra Scorpio in 2002. From tractors and jeeps, the Mahindra Group expanded into IT, aerospace, hospitality, and more. In 2010, Mahindra sponsored the FIFA World Cup and later in 2014, it entered FIA Formula E Championships. Mahindra is now playing a significant role in the group’s expansion into Electric Vehicle (EV) manufacturing renewable solar projects.
Power Punch
Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra, has begun delivering Armored Light Specialist Vehicles (ALSVs) built for the Indian armed forces.
What Next
Anand Mahindra plans to pump in $1.2 billion over the next seven years for the development of Electric Vehicles (EVs).
Social media quotient
X: @anandmahindra 11M followers
44) Rajiv Bajaj, 57
Managing Director, Bajaj Auto
Why
Rajiv Bajaj is continuing the legacy of his industrialist father Rahul Bajaj as he takes Bajaj Auto Ltd, one of India’s leading two-wheeler makers, to new horizons with CNG and electric vehicles (EVs). At the same time, he has inherited his father’s fiery spirit and is one of the few voices of corporate India who doesn’t fear calling a spade a spade. Having earlier criticised the Covid-19 lockdowns as hurting the GDP, he spoke his mind against subsidies for EVs in India. He believes that our EV policies need sound strategy and not subsidies, which disrupt innovation.
Power Punch
Though Bajaj Auto is second to Hero Motocorp in terms of the number of bikes sold, it’s number one in terms of market capitalisation, currently around Rs 2.35 lakh crore. He has announced the launch of the ‘biggest Pulsar ever.’ The company had a 38 per cent jump in profits for the third quarter and declared a Rs 4,000-crore share buyback.
What Next
After launching electric three-wheelers in select towns, he’s planning to introduce the CNG-powered bike across the country.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
45) Neelkanth Mishra, 48
Chief Economist, Axis Bank
Why
Neelkanth Mishra is chief economist at Axis Bank, India’s third-largest private sector bank, and Head of Global Research at Axis Capital. The former veteran of Credit Suisse — a prominent financial institution based in Zurich — joined Axis Bank in 2023 to reportedly boost the wealth management and investment banking business of the lender.
Power Punch
Mishra, a part-time member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council since 2019, was also appointed as part-time chairman of the UIDAI, the nodal agency overseeing Aadhaar, in August last year. A seasoned policymaker, he has also been a part of the Advisory Council to the 15th Finance Commission.
What Next
As part of the Advisory Board of the India Semiconductor Mission and a panel reviewing proposals for the $10 billion chip subsidy scheme of the Central government, Mishra is closely involved with India’s efforts to become a global chip-manufacturing hub.
Social media quotient
X: @neelkanthmishra 22.9K followers
46) Neeraj Chopra, 26
Olympic champion (Javelin)
Why
An upgrade from silver to gold at the World Championships, second Asian Games title and respectable second-place finish at the Diamond League Finals — Neeraj Chopra has shown that his Olympic medal was no flash in the pan. At 26, he has virtually won every global title possible — with the most recent being India’s first World Championship gold.
Power Punch
Recovering from a groin injury that forced him to pull out of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the javelin star registered another stellar season, becoming the first athlete from the country to win a World Championship gold. He was the first notable athlete to raise his voice for wrestlers protesting in the national capital before others joined in. He has also emerged as the most sought-after non-cricket athlete for brand endorsem*nts.
What Next
In his own words, “throwers don’t have a finish line”. He is a favourite to win gold at the Paris Olympics this summer. He will surely be looking to tick off the 90m box as well this season. Although not obsessed with this mark, which no thrower has achieved so far this season, the leading Indian has made it clear that breaking that barrier is on his priority list.
Social media quotient
X: @Neeraj_chopra1 8.4M followers
47) Naveen Patnaik, 77
Chief Minister, Odisha
Why
Naveen Patnaik will seek a sixth straight term in the upcoming Assembly polls due along with the general election. A win, which looks quite certain at this moment, will make him the longest-serving CM in the country. Patnaik is considered to have a good rapport with Prime Minister Narendra Modi despite his claim of being ‘equidistant’ from the BJP and the Congress.
Power Punch
Patnaik has managed to stay away from any controversy and maintained his “clean image” despite being at the helm of uninterrupted power for around 24 years. Politician of a rare kind, Patnaik refrains from making rhetoric speeches and direct attacks on Opposition leaders. His humility is his biggest asset that has helped him retain the confidence of the people of the state, besides his slew of welfare measures.
What Next
Amid debate on his successor, Patnaik’s closest aide and his former private secretary VK Pandian, who resigned from the IAS in October last year, joined the ruling BJD. Despite not holding any position, Pandian, a native of Tamil Nadu, is considered to be the second-most powerful leader in the BJD after Patnaik. Party insiders say Pandian is likely to get a key position in the BJD after the 2024 polls.
Social media quotient
X: @Naveen_Odisha 3.6M followers
48) Eknath Shinde, 60
Chief Minister, Maharashtra
Why
The revolt led by Eknath Shinde split the Shiv Sena and changed the political course of Maharashtra. Within a short span of taking over as Chief Minister, he has not only taken charge of his organisation that has been recognised as the real Shiv Sena but has also managed to hold his own in the coalition government, emerging from the shadow of the Thackerays. Mixing guile with tact, he has kept many a line open to the BJP’s key leaders.
Power Punch
By taking the centre stage in addressing the fraught issue of Maratha reservation, he has tried to establish himself as the community leader. The draft notification promising Kunbi certificate to eligible Marathas and their blood relatives was seen as a masterstroke. The Maharashtra Assembly on February 20 passed a Bill approving 10 per cent reservation to Marathas in government jobs and education.
What Next
The task before Shinde is to consolidate and expand his party. His leadership has yet to be tested in an electoral battle with Uddhav Thackeray. His acceptance among party cadre at the grassroots across Maharashtra remains a litmus test.
Social media quotient
X: @mieknathsinde 1M followers
49) Pinarayi Vijayan, 78
Chief Minister, Kerala
Why
The head of the only Communist government in the country now, Pinarayi Vijayan remains one of the most powerful regional voices against the Narendra Modi government. Having returned the LDF to power for an unprecedented second consecutive term in Kerala, Pinarayi is not just in full control of the government but also the once-divided CPI(M) in the state. He is among the leading Opposition CMs who have fashioned themselves as champions of federalism, opening battlefronts — including in the Supreme Court — against the Governor and the Central government.
Power Punch
Putting behind the decades-long water dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Pinarayi has forged a close partnership with his Tamil Nadu counterpart M K Stalin. The two meet often and have supported each other in their respective struggles against the BJP-led Centre, laying the groundwork for the formation of a Southern alliance of CMs.
What Next
The 2024 Lok Sabha polls are different as the CPI(M) is tied to the Congress via the INDIA bloc now. However, Pinarayihas made it clear that he would not go easy on the Congress in Kerala, and his immediate focus is to limit the Congress to single digits and win seats for the CPI(M).
Social media quotient
X: @pinarayivijayan 1.1M followers
50) Devendra Fadnavis, 53
Deputy Chief Minister, Maharashtra
Why
He is the architect of Maharashtra’s ruling Mahayuti coalition. With administrative experience in running the state as CM between 2014 and 2019, this time he trained his energies on completing key infrastructure projects, such as the country’s longest sea bridge, India’s first undersea tunnel and the Samruddhi Mahamarg. Despite having to sacrifice the CM’s position twice, he’s the glue that keeps the coalition together.
Power Punch
Having succeeded in breaking the Shiv Sena in 2022, he managed to engineer a split in the NCP in July 2023 and got the faction led by Ajit Pawar to join the government. Within 15 months, hence, he has weakened two major regional parties in the state.
What Next
The Lok Sabha, Assembly and civic body elections are the challenges ahead. He has been tasked with ensuring a repeat of 2019 (the then NDA won 41 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats) in 2024 ensuring the alliance remains intact.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @Dev_Fadnavis 5.8M followers
51) Tushar Mehta, 59
Solicitor General of India
Why
For over five years now, the feisty and combative Tushar Mehta has been the second-highest ranking law officer of the Modi government. In many a courtoom battle, he has become the go-to person for many BJP-ruled states, from Manipur to Uttar Pradesh, and also for the Centre in Opposition-ruled states such as West Bengal.
Power Punch
Mehta led the arguments in the crucial challenge against the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution that gave special status to Kashmir. In a rare move, he issued a statement after the apex court put its stamp of approval on the government’s move, highlighting his role on the issue. Mehta said he was “the only lawyer involved in the process of abrogation of Article 370 through constitutional and legal means before August 5, 2019 and led the arguments” before the top court.
What Next
Since Mehta has won more cases than he has lost for the government, it is to be seen what the new government might hold for him, should the NDA come back to power.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
52) PK Mishra, 75
Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister
Why
A 1972-batch Gujarat cadre Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, Pramod Kumar Mishra is the country’s top bureaucrat. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is said to consult him while taking all crucial decisions, especially senior-level appointments.
Power Punch
PK Mishra has been at the helm of affairs in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) for the last 10 years and has shared a special rapport with Prime Minister Modi since the latter’s days as Gujarat Chief Minister. In 2014, during the Modi government’s first tenure, a special post of additional principal secretary was created in the PMO to accommodate Mishra. His high-speed growth model is both inclusive and innovative.
What Next
As the Modi government seeks a third term, Mishra’s foremost task will be to ensure that the pace of development and governance remains smooth ahead of the general elections this year. He believes that India should move forward, become ‘self-reliant’ in all aspects and prioritise sustainable development. He will have a key role in ensuring India reaches its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
53) Manoj Sinha, 64
Lieutenant Governor, Jammu and Kashmir
Why
Manoj Sinha has been at the helm in J&K for over three years now. Over the past year, he has enhanced public engagement, sometimes addressing multiple events the same day. Targeted killings, protests by Kashmiri Pandits and the Gujjar/Bakerwal communities have been challenges for him in the absence of elected leaders in Jammu and Kashmir. Directed by the Centre, he is driving the infrastructure push in the region. The tourism group meeting of the G20 in Srinagar was a new feather in his cap.
Power Punch
Sinha has been focused on effective administration during his tenure. His fortnightly feature, the “L-G Mulaqat”, is a hit. The entire administration meets via video-conferencing and complaints submitted via the LG’s grievance cell are taken up for resolution. Given the lack of direct representation in the state, in terms of elected leaders, many people have taken the LG grievance cell route. He also meets a wide range of people in his offices in both Srinagar and Jammu.
What Next
As the Supreme Court has set a September deadline for Assembly elections in J&K, helping start the political process and bridging local mistrust will be Sinha’s next challenge.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @manojsinha_ 660.7K followers
54) Sameer Nigam, 46
Founder and CEO, PhonePe
Why
Sameer Nigam founded the digital payments juggernaut PhonePe in 2015, which has established itself as the premier app for handling UPI transactions in the country. PhonePe’s total payments value (TPV) market share for UPI payments stood at 50.54 per cent in March 2023. The number of registered users recently crossed the 500 million mark. The company also completed its full spinoff from the Flipkart group and moved its domicile to India from Singapore.
Power Punch
PhonePe became the first fintech company to allow cross-border money transfers through UPI. Despite a funding winter that impacted a number of startups, PhonePe managed to raise $350 million last year, valuing it around $12 billion. It launched a shopping app called Pincode, focused on hyperlocal e-commerce on the government-backed ONDC platform.
What Next
As its biggest competitor Paytm faces a slew of regulatory challenges, it is upon Nigam to navigate the company in a growing market. He will also have to improve PhonePe’s unit economics as the company heads for an eventual public listing. The company has launched its own app store to challenge the might and control of Apple and Google in the space.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @_sameernigam 18.2K followers
55) Mohan Yadav, 58
Chief Minister, Madhya Pradesh
Why
The surprise pick as Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister in a closely contested fight, Yadav edged out Union ministers, senior leaders and even his longest-serving predecessor Shivraj Singh Chouhan. A favourite of the RSS, the former state higher education minister is set to emerge as an alternative OBC face to reduce Chouhan’s imprint in the state.
Power Punch
Despite lobbying by several powerful factions within the BJP, Yadav, his supporters say, managed to wrest the CM’s chair because of his grassroots connect. He cut his teeth in student politics and has his ear to the ground. He belongs to the Malwa Nimar region that has 66 crucial Assembly seats and is a bellwether region of the state. His OBC credentials have also been used by the BJP to campaign in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to reach out to that caste base.
What Next
After a series of transfers of senior IAS and IPS officers, Yadav has to get the state’s finances in order as the exchequer is burdened with welfare schemes introduced in the Chouhan era. Also on his plate is the challenge to help the party repeat its 2019 sweep (28 of 29 seats) in 2024.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @DrMohanYadav51 339.6K followers
56) YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, 51
Chief Minister, Andhra Pradesh
Why
Five years after his landslide victory in the simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Jagan Mohan Reddy remains one of the most popular leaders in the state. The YSRCP government has disbursed Rs 2.55 lakh crore as direct benefit transfers (DBT) and Rs 1.07 lakh crore as non-DBT aid through several welfare schemes, dubbed Navaratnalu (nine gems). Governance and welfare schemes have been taken to people’s doorsteps through his innovative village and ward secretariats, strengthening his popular connect.
Power Punch
Sensing anti-incumbency, Jagan has started dropping sitting MLAs who he feels do not have a good chance of winning as he aims for 175 seats. So far, there has been no rebellion in response.
What Next
He faces a challenge from the TDP-JSP combine and the BJP as the Chandrababu Naidu-led party tries to get its former ally on board. His new rival is his sister and Andhra Congress chief YS Sharmila. He has to balance finances with populist schemes.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @ysjagan 2.5M followers
57) Kiran Nadar, 73
Chairperson, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art
Why
One of India’s foremost art collectors, 2023 saw Kiran Nadar being conferred the Padma Shri in the art category. Chairperson of India’s first private museum of modern and contemporary art, she has supported numerous prestigious exhibitions of Indian art at international institutions. Wife of industrialist Shiv Nadar, her collection of over 13,000 exhibits includes some of the most significant works by members of the formidable Progressive Artists’ Group and Raja Ravi Varma, among others.
Power Punch
Nadar paid a staggering Rs 61.80 crore for Amrita Sher-Gil’s The Story Teller in September 2023. A competitive bidder at auctions, she owns some of the most expensive works of Indian art, including SH Raza’s Saurashtra and FN Souza’s Birth.
What Next
Designed by Ghanaian-British architect David Adjaye, KNMA will be India’s largest art and culture centre in 2026. It is being built on a 1,00,000 sqm site in Delhi. This year, KNMA will present an immersive exhibition of MF Husain alongside some of his works, coinciding with the Venice Biennale.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Instagram: @kiran_nadar 12.9K followers
58) MS Dhoni, 41
Chennai Super Kings captain
Why
He has long retired from international cricket but April and May — the Indian Premier League (IPL) months — belong to MS Dhoni. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper is rated among the most influential captains to ever play the game. Last year, he guided CSK to a record-equalling fifth IPL title. Regardless of geography, Dhoni is still among Indian cricket’s biggest draws.
Power Punch
While IPL teams continue to experiment with different captains, CSK’s faith in Dhoni is unwavering. In Chennai, Dhoni has a free hand and a veto in every team decision. Even if 2024 turns out to be his farewell season, Dhoni is expected to be seen in the CSK dug-out for years to come.
Be it Virat Kohli or any cricketer playing his first season, many players look up to him and seek his counsel. He remains the most sought-after brand, especially for those marketing trust and reliability. Once Dhoni calls time, he is expected to get a bigger role in Indian cricket.
What Next
The summer of 2024 could possibly be his last. A win in Dhoni’s final season would see another fairytale ending for the man who got India the 2011 World Cup by hitting a six.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Instagram: @mahi7781 46.7 M followers
59) Rajeev Chandrasekhar, 59
Minister of State of Electronics and IT, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and Jal Shakti
Why
From being a petitioner in the landmark 2017 right to privacy judgement to his role as Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar has played a pivotal role in India enacting its data protection law last year. Chandrasekhar, who is also MoS for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, now holds the additional responsibility of the Jal Shakti Ministry.
Power Punch
Seen as accessible, he has been a vital link between the government and industry. Apart from playing a significant role in shaping of incentives for semiconductor manufacturing in India, Chandrasekhar has rolled out schemes to facilitate smaller start-ups in designing chips in the country. He also led the framing of rules for the online gaming sector.
What Next
The next step for him is to draft the Digital India Bill which promises to significantly change the Internet ecosystem in India and impact big digital businesses.
Social media quotient
X: @Rajeev_GoI 348.2K followers
60) Sunil Bansal, 54
National General Secretary, BJP
Why
Bansal, who hails from Rajasthan and has a background in the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), is the BJP’s national general secretary in charge of West Bengal, Odisha and Telangana.
Power Punch
Bansal played a key role in scripting the BJP’s victory in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections in 2017. As the then UP BJP general secretary (organisation), he was credited with adding 1,000 additional office-bearers from the booth to state levels from among the OBCs and Dalits, strengthening the booth committees, and focusing on the panchayat polls to energise the party ahead of the Assembly polls. Bansal had also contributed to the party’s successful campaign in UP in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.
What Next
As the BJP in-charge of three crucial states, Bansal has his task cut out in the run-up to the Lok Sabha polls. While Odisha, ruled by the BJD, is headed for simultaneous Assembly elections, Bansal’s organisational mandate is to give a boost to the BJP’s prospects in Bengal, where the ruling TMC has continued to pose a formidable challenge to the party. This apart, the BJP leadership may also ask the seasoned organisational man to shoulder other key responsibility in the coming days.
Social media quotient
X: @sunilbansalbjp 1.2M followers
61) Pushkar Singh Dhami, 48
Chief Minister, Uttarakhand
Why
Despite assumptions that he was appointed as Chief Minister only because he is seen as a young face and has a clean image, Pushkar Singh Dhami has demonstrated the ability to take difficult decisions and uphold his promises.
His success in delivering on commitments such as the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), his prompt handling of the violence in Haldwani and his active involvement in the Silkyara Bend–Barkot tunnel rescue operations have solidified this perception.
Power Punch
Dhami has been credited for the passage of the UCC in the state, with the legislation likely to serve as a model for other states and potentially for the Central government. Dhami’s leadership on this issue has garnered him significant political capital.
What Next
The task of winning all five Lok Sabha seats in Uttarakhand will rest on Dhami’s shoulders. As Chief Minister, he faces the challenge of striking a balance between ecological preservation and development initiatives in the state vulnerable to natural disasters.
Social media quotient
X: @pushkardhami 488.3K followers
62) Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, 52
Congress general secretary
Why
She is a key presence at the Congress’s decision-making high table. Priyanka, who first took on a political role in UP, continues to call the shots in the state — despite remaining away since the party fared abysmally in the 2022 Assembly elections.
Power Punch
Her hand was seen in the surprise decision to replace Brijlal Khabri as Uttar Pradesh chief last August, just 10 months into the post. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge was reportedly not keen to change Khabri but he had little option. She also worked the phones to seal seat-sharing with SP’s Akhilesh Yadav earlier this month.
What Next
All eyes are on whether Priyanka will make her electoral debut in the 2024 elections. The stage is set, with Sonia Gandhi shifting to the Rajya Sabha, vacating her seat of Raebareli, a traditional Congress and Gandhi family stronghold. Another option could be Amethi, represented by Rahul in 2004, 2009 and 2014, before his defeat in 2019 to senior BJP leader Smriti Irani.
Social media quotient
X: @priyankagandhi 5.6 M followers
63) Rajiv Kumar, 64
Chief Election Commissioner
Why
Having been CEC since May 2022, he has overseen the preparations for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and will helm the ECI as it carries out the mammoth exercise involving nearly 97 crore voters. In his tenure so far, Kumar has focused on cleaning up finances of registered unrecognised political parties, improving the level of political discourse during elections by issuing several advisories to parties and pushing back on claims of EVM faults.
Power Punch
With CECs and ECs, current and former, facing legal challenges to decisions taken while in office, the current ECI under Kumar flagged the concerns to the Union Law Ministry. This led the government to put a protection against litigation for decisions of the ECI in the recently passed CEC and Other ECs (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023.
What Next
After the Supreme Court verdict on the electoral bonds scheme, Kumar said the poll panel will act by its directives. As the gloves come off in the bitter run-up to the polls, how the EC handles complaints will be carefully watched.
Social media quotient
X: @rajivkumarec 26.4K followers
64) Bhagwant Mann, 50
Chief Minister, Punjab
Why
Bhagwant Mann is seen as one of the most powerful Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders. He heads a strategically important border state while handling issues related to farmers’ unrest, drug menace and law and order.
Power Punch
Mann has successfully dispelled the perception that the AAP leadership in Delhi controls Punjab. His growing profile was illustrated by the fact that he was picked by the Centre to lead the efforts to mediate between farm unions in the ongoing dispute between them. On Republic Day, during the at-home event hosted by Governor Banwarilal Purohit, the Punjab CM grabbed eyeballs when he sang the famous Punjabi number Chhalla.
What Next
Mann’s challenge is to ensure the party’s victory in the Lok Sabha elections. The AAP, which has 92 MLAs in the 117-member Assembly, won only the Jalandhar Lok Sabha seat last time. This year will be a momentous one for the Punjab CM on the personal front too. As he announced in his Republic Day speech, he is set to become a father again,
in March.
Social media quotient
X: @BhagwantMann 1.5M followers
65) General Anil Chauhan, 62
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)
Why
Gen Anil Chauhan, as India’s second CDS, has been discreetly driving a series of military reforms, at the top of which is the creation of theatre commands. He has also been instrumental in prioritising defence procurements from the defence budget available. Prior to taking over as the CDS, he served as the military advisor in the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). In his 40-year career, he has held several command and staff appointments, besides earning extensive experience in counterinsurgency operations in J&K and the Northeast.
Power Punch
Gen Chauhan was chosen as the CDS by the government almost a year after his predecessor Gen Bipin Rawat died in a helicopter crash. A quiet worker who prefers staying away from the spotlight, he has often been referred to as a consensus man — taking everybody on board before arriving at a critical decision.
What Next
He is learnt to be working towards unity among the three services. Actively involved in the radical Agnipath scheme that was brought for military recruitment in 2022, he will be involved in all changes related to the scheme.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
66) TV Somanathan, 58
Finance and Expenditure Secretary
Why
As Finance and Expenditure Secretary, TV Somanathan is the go-to person for the government for its fiscal mathematics. He has been the brain behind the government’s Budget, which has been appreciated for displaying fiscal prudence and not offering pre-election sops. He believes it is an error that many economies have made — to inject a stimulus when it is necessary and not withdraw it when it is no longer needed.
Power Punch
Despite apprehensions of a lower nominal GDP affecting the fiscal math, Somanathan was able to keep the fiscal deficit at 5.8 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as against 5.9 per cent budgeted earlier for FY24 and now aims to restrict it to below 4.5 per cent by 2025-26.
What Next
Somanathan will have to meet the economy’s growth objectives amid continuing risk from rural distress, lack of productive jobs and high inflation. On growth and global vulnerabilities, Somanathan believes that a real GDP growth of 6.5 per cent is not low. On international ratings for India, that have not been upgraded for a long time, he is confident that will change soon if India continues to be fiscally prudent.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
67) CR Paatil, 68
Gujarat BJP President and Lok Sabha MP
Why
A close aide of PM Modi, CR Paatil, despite his Maharashtra roots, has a strong presence in Gujarat. In 2023 there was speculation about Paatil being replaced as the Gujarat BJP chief after he completed three years in office but the party decided not to take any chances and retained him to lead the state into the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Power Punch
During the coup against the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government in Maharashtra in 2022, the rivalfaction led by Eknath Shinde camped at a resort in Surat, under tight security — an arrangement said to have been choreographed by Paatil. Such is the clout of the former policeman that those in the party involved in alleged smear campaigns against Paatil are facing investigation by the Surat Crime Branch. Under his leadership, several Congress leaders have not only moved to the BJP but have also been given ministerial berths.
What Next
After the BJP won all 26 Lok Sabha seats in the state in 2014 and 2019, as he prepares for a third term, PM Modi has put his trust in Paatil again to get a hat-trick from Gujarat. Paatil has set a target for a victory margin of five lakh votes for each candidate. He could also be given a bigger role in national politics.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @CRPaatil 509.2K followers
68) Rohit Sharma, 36
India cricket captain
Why
Captain across formats, Rohit Sharma has played the perfect big brother to the young Indian side. Opening the batting, the 36-year-old led the way during the World Cup. Though India finished runners-up, Rohit’s team got applauded globally for playing an exciting brand of cricket. An influential cricketer, he has an army of social media followers and endorses several brands.
Power Punch
Rohit enjoys the confidence of the BCCI and has a major say in most selection decisions. Be it the call of phasing out seniors for Tests or the sidelining of those preferring IPL over domestic cricket, the Indian captain has been behind these important decisions. Though he lost the franchise captaincy to Hardik Pandya late last year, his sparkling leadership record in IPL makes him a strong voice in the Mumbai Indians dressing room. In a clear signal that his aura has far from faded, the BCCI named him the World T20 captain of a team that will have Pandya.
What Next
Having lost the World Test Championship and 50-over World Cup final, Rohit has another shot at glory at the T20 World Cup. An ICC event title would enhance his leadership legacy.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Instagram: @rohitsharma45 35.6M followers
69) Madhabi Puri Buch, 58
Chairperson, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
Why
Madhabi Puri Buch is the first woman to head the capital markets regulator. Appointed SEBI Chairperson in March 2022, she is its youngest chief and also the first from the private sector to helm it. A full-time SEBI member till October 4, 2021, she handled many departments, including market regulation, and market intermediaries regulation and supervision.
Power Punch
Buch has spearheaded many initiatives, including the Application Supported by Blocked Amount (ASBA)-like structure for secondary market, share buyback norms, advertisem*nt code for investment advisers, additional disclosure norms for certain foreign portfolio investors and norms to check financial influencers. She oversaw the transition of the trade settlement cycle in the secondary market to T+1 (trade plus one day).
What Next
SEBI will be introducing a facility for clearing and settling funds and securities on T+0 (same day), and instant settlement on an optional basis. It is working on delisting regulations for companies.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
Not on social media
70) Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, 56
Minister of Jal Shakti
Why
Through his Jal Shakti Ministry, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat steers three key projects of the Narendra Modi-led government: Jal Jeevan Mission (to provide clean drinking water); Namami Gange (to preserve the Ganga); and the inter-linking of rivers, apart from being a key Rajasthan leader.
The BJP is looking to highlight the Jal Jeevan Mission, which aims to provide tap water to every rural household by 2024, in its campaign for the upcoming general elections.
Power Punch
Shekhawat has played a decisive role in resolving key inter-state river linking disputes, be it the Ken-Betwa project between Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh or the Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal-ERCP link project between Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
A two-time Lok Sabha MP, he is also important to the party organisationally. He plays a significant role in discussions with allies and those interested in joining the party.
What Next
Shekhawat is looking to win a third Lok Sabha term from Jodhpur.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @gssjodhpur 580.5K followers
71) Bhupendra Patel, 61
Chief Minister, Gujarat
Why
Bhupendra Patel was retained by the party’s high command as the Chief Minister of Gujarat after its victory in the 2022 Assembly elections. Under his leadership, Gujarat saw the opening of the first offshore campus of two Australian Universities and hosted the 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS).
In the nearly two-and-a-half years of his chief ministership, Patel remains a non-controversial figure. He is likely to be a key leader when Gujarat bids for hosting the Olympics in 2036, and launches India’s first Bullet Train between Ahmedabad and Mumbai in 2026.
Power Punch
Under Patel, the Gujarat government has made many bold moves like relaxing the prohibition law to open wine-and-dine facilities in the GIFT City area to boost business and empower companies to issue drinking licences.
What Next
The Lok Sabha elections of 2024 will be the next challenge for CM Patel. The party is eyeing a hattrick of winning all the 26 seats in Gujarat after registering a clean sweep in 2014 and 2019, with a higher vote margin. Patel’s performance as CM of Gujarat will play a key role in it.
Social media quotient
X: @Bhupendrapbjp 581.9K followers
72) DK Shivakumar, 59
Deputy Chief minister, Karnataka; state Congress chief
Why
The thumping victory that the Congress party registered in the 2023 Karnataka Assembly polls, winning 135 seats out of 224, is widely attributed to the organisational capabilities of DK Shivakumar. He was seen to have brought a freshness to the Congress thinking for the polls.
Power Punch
The appointment of the chief minister of Karnataka was delayed for several days after the Congress registered a big win in the 2023 Assembly polls on account of a strong push by Shivakumar to be made CM.
The Congress resisted the push but conceded to Shivakumar’s demand to be the lone Deputy CM in the government — seen as setting the stage for him to be the next CM.
What Next
Shivakumar is expected to make another strong push to be made the CM when the Congress government under Siddaramaiah completes half its five-year term. The Deputy CM is banking on the Congress facilitating a mid-term change of guard as reportedly agreed within the party at the time of government formation in May 2023.
Social media quotient
X: @DKShivakumar 614.4K followers
73) Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, 35
Leader of Opposition in Bihar; RJD leader
Why
Though out of power after yet another switch by Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi looks like a much-assured leader now and is well and truly out of his father Lalu Prasad’s shadow. His speech in the Assembly during the recent trust vote, in which he targeted Nitish without being overtly aggressive, won him praise and illustrated the distance he has travelled.
Power Punch
Tejashwi’s strength continues to be his mass base, particularly the Muslim-Yadav combine that he has inherited from his father and which constitutes about 31 per cent of the state population. But Tejashwi has added economic justice to the party’s social justice slogan and claimed credit for the previous Mahagathbandhan government’s focus on jobs.
What Next
Tejashwi’s immediate goal will be to build on the RJD’s gains and win as many Lok Sabha seats as possible in the coming elections. But the crucial test for him will be the next Bihar state elections. One thing that will keep him, and his family, worried is the land-for-jobs case in which they are accused of corruption and are under the legal scanner.
Social media quotient
X: @yadavtejashwi 5M followers
74) Bhajan Lal Sharma, 57
Chief Minister, Rajasthan
Why
As Chief Minister of the largest state, Bhajan Lal Sharma has been tasked with enforcing the Modi-Shah mandate. While other BJP leaders in Rajasthan are a force unto themselves — and perhaps that’s what ruled them out of the top post in the state — Sharma has the backing of the party’s top leadership and is a medium to implement
their will.
Power Punch
Sharma being named the CM in December 2023 ended the 25-year tradition where Rajasthan saw the Chief Minister chair rotate between Ashok Gehlot and Vasundhara Raje. He overtook party leaders such as Raje, Rajendra Rathore, Satish Poonia, and even Central leaders for the top spot. To break this cycle that had hardened power structures in the state was also an imperative behind his appointment.
What Next
The party manifesto has been adopted as a policy document. As the party goes into polls, his government would seek to tick as many boxes as possible before it
seeks votes.
Social media quotient
X: @BhajanlalBjp 248.9K followers
75) Akhilesh Yadav, 50
President, Samajwadi Party
Why
Of all the leaders in the INDIA alliance of Opposition parties, Akhilesh, perhaps, has the most crucial role to play. How the bloc does will depend to a large extent on the performance of the SP and the Congress in Uttar Pradesh, with a total of 80 seats, where they have sealed a seat-sharing deal.
Power Punch
Akhilesh is the most prominent Opposition leader in Uttar Pradesh at present, with the Mayawati-led BSP reduced to the margins after winning just one seat in the 2022 Assembly polls and the Congress not having a prominent face in the state. With his “PDA (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpasankhyak)” pitch and demand for a caste census, Akhilesh could help the Opposition regain some ground by challenging the BJP’s OBC support base.
What Next
He may have sealed a seat-sharing deal with the Congress but carrying out his party’s Lok Sabha poll campaign and ensuring coordination with the Congress on the ground will be the next big challenge for the SP leader.
Social media quotient
X: @yadavakhilesh 19.2M followers
76) Ajit Pawar, 64
Deputy chief minister, Maharashtra, and President, Nationalist Congress Party
Why
Long in his uncle Sharad Pawar’s shadow, Ajit took the plunge and split the NCP last July. Joining hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he not only managed to bring the majority of the legislators to his side but has also won the party name and election symbol.
He is now the Deputy CM of Maharashtra, with most of the NCP senior leadership with him, and the Election Commission’s seal that he leads the “real” NCP.
Power Punch
By getting Praful Patel elected to the Rajya Sabha, Ajit Pawar proved his mettle. He showed his ability to strategise and spring surprises, which had thus far been his uncle’s domain.
Right after the split in the NCP, in the first test in the battle of the Pawars, Ajit managed to bag 400 gram panchayats of the 2,359 local governing bodies, coming second to the BJP that won 700 panchayats.
What Next
The coming Lok Sabha polls will be Ajit’s first without his uncle and he is hoping to consolidate his party’s presence. But the real battle will be in Baramati, a Pawar family bastion, where his party might have to take on his cousin Supriya Sule.
Social media quotient
X: @AjitPawarSpeaks 1.5M followers
77) Vishnu Deo Sai, 60
Chief Minister, Chhattisgarh
Why
Sai, the fourth Chhattisgarh CM, started his career in the 1980s as a grassroots worker of the BJP, working his way up the ranks to become state BJP president three times. His appeal within the tribal community helped the party in its succesful bid to reverse its losses from five years earlier and propel it to victory. Sai comes from the tribal-dominated Surguja region where the BJP won all the 14 Assembly seats, like the Congress had done in 2018.
Power Punch
Sai enjoys the confidence of the top BJP leadership. At an election rally, Union Home Minister Amit Shah appealed to people to vote for him, saying he would be “made a big man” if he won. The Sai government has so far made budgetary allocations to fulfil “Modi guarantees” such as building houses for the poor and higher MSP for rice farmers, and announced investigations into alleged corruption during the Congress rule. Under his government, security forces have also stepped up anti-Naxal operations.
What Next
The litmus test for Sai will be ensuring that all “Modi guarantees” are fulfilled and the BJP wins a sizeable number of Lok Sabha seats in the state with a higher vote share than last time. Despite being trounced in the 2018 Assembly polls, the BJP rode the Narendra Modi wave to win nine of the 11 parliamentary seats in 2019.
Social media quotient
X: @vishnudsai 62.6K followers
78) AsaduddinOwaisi, 54
AIMIM President and Hyderabad MP
Why
A four-term MP from Hyderabad, Asaduddin Owaisi increasingly uses his presence in the Lok Sabha to try and amplify the voice of Muslims and articulate their issues at a national level. He has increased the footprint of his party AIMIM in other states, notching up wins in Assembly and local body elections. He is a supporter of reservation for backward Muslims in government jobs and educational institutions and a vocal proponent of abolition of the Haj subsidy advocating for its use to educate Muslim women.
Power Punch
Owaisi has been taking on the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under his leadership, the AIMIM has forayed into states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat and Karnataka.
What Next
The AIMIM is “in alliance” with the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) in Telangana and with the Congress in power in the state. Owaisi needs to build bridges with the grand old party to ensure his MLAs are heard in the Assembly. How he relates to the non-BJP parties could also shape minority politics in the face of a dominant BJP.
Social media quotient
X: @asadowaisi 2.9M followers
79) Alia Bhatt, 30
Actor, producer, entrepreneur
Why
One of the most versatile stars of Bollywood, who has travelled the whole arc of character-driven roles, Alia Bhatt showed that she can return to breezy and commercial roles, like she did in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani (2023), with equal elan. Now a producer herself, she made her international debut with the Netflix spy-thriller Heart of Stone last year. She also became the first Indian to be Gucci’s global ambassador, attending the brand’s fashion shows in Seoul and Milan.
Power Punch
As of October 2023, she is the one of the most-followed Indian actors on Instagram. She received the National Award for Best Actress for her powerful performance as the titular protagonist of Gangubai Kathiawadi. She also won popular awards for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani. Reliance Retail acquired a majority stake of 51 per cent in Ed-a-Mamma, her brand for new mothers. She has been picked by filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali again for a new venture.
What Next
While Love & War is going to be a Christmas 2025 release and its demanding shooting schedule is going to keep her busy this year, Bhatt will be seen on the big screen with Dharma Production’s Jigra in September.
Social media quotient
Instagram: @aliaabhatt 83 M followers
80) Harish Salve, 68
Former Solicitor General of India
Why
Harish Salve may have shifted his operations to London almost a decade ago, but he is still dialled in on high-stakes legal issues by the Modi government — from representing Kulbhushan Jadhav before the ICJ to defending the abrogation of Article 370 before the Supreme Court.
From Mukesh Ambani, Ratan Tata to Prime Minister Modi, Salve has an enviable clientele for whom he sometimes flies back to Delhi.
Power punch
Following the Hindenburg Research’s report on short selling, it was to Salve that Adani turned, to defend him publicly. Salve spoke up for his former client, calling for a probe against the research team.
What next
In September last year, Salve was appointed as part of the eight-member high-level panel to examine the issue of holding simultaneous elections in the country. The former Solicitor General of India, Salve is attending the meetings of the committee virtually. The report is expected later this year.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
81) General Manoj Pande, 61
Chief of Army Staff
Why
He is the first Army chief from the Corps of Engineers. The decorated officer has nearly four decades of experience in the Army during which he has served along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) facing China and the Line of Control (LOC) opposite Pakistan. He has also served as the Commander-in-Chief of the tri-service Andaman & Nicobar Command (CINCAN).
Power Punch
He has been at the forefront of major transformations in the military. The significant planned military reform on creation of integrated theatre commands, transforming the force in line with modern warfare trends, a focus on China without losing sight of terrorism in J&K, recruitment of soldiers under the Agnipath scheme—Gen Pande has been overseeing all.
What Next
He has multiple critical tasks, especially in driving self-reliance, innovation and induction of technology in the Army for modernising the force, before he retires later this year.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
82) Manohar Lal Khattar, 69
Chief Minister, Haryana
Why
A surprise non-Jat choice for Haryana Chief Minister, Khattar has since gone from strength to strength and, after two terms in the post, is the BJP’s foremost leader in the state now. He has also managed to run a stable government despite the BJP having to lean on ally Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) for a majority.
Power Punch
Farmer leaders may be slamming his government’s high-handed measures, but in ensuring that the protesting farmers don’t get to reach Delhi — where a situation like the year-long agitation held by them in 2020-21 could develop — Khattar has managed to do what the Centre expected of him. What remains to be seen is how he contains the backlash from farmers on the Haryana side.
What Next
The upcoming Haryana Assembly elections will be foremost on Khattar’s mind, given the anti-incumbency after 10 years in power and given that last time he needed the help of the JJP to form the government. While the Congress is a divided house, it cannot be written off as a determined Bhupender Singh Hooda leads the fightback.
Social media quotient
X: @mlkhattar 2.3M followers
83) S Somanath, 60
Chairman, ISRO
Why
As chairman, he is charting a new path for the Indian Space Research Organisation. ISRO is not just doing its own missions, it is also getting into powerful space alliances that make it an extremely important global player. Somanath has thus emerged as the most influential head of the space agency since K Kasturirangan.
Power Punch
The moon landing moment, undoubtedly. The successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 captured the imagination of the entire nation. Just like the implications of the nuclear tests, for instance, went far beyond nuclear or military affairs, the ramifications of Chandrayaan-3’s success have added another dimension to India’s increasing global heft, across sectors. There have been several other important successes after that, including the launch of the Aditya-L1 mission.
What Next
Somanath has another one year in office, at least. During this time, several important space missions are planned that could buttress ISRO’s emergence as a major player in space exploration. Among them are the launch of NISAR, a first of its kind collaborative mission between ISRO and NASA, and the dress rehearsal flights of Gaganyaan, the human space mission.
Social media Quotient
Not on social media
84) Shashi Tharoor, 67
Congress MP and author
Why
A suave and articulate politician, former UN diplomat Shashi Tharoor wears quite a few hats. The third-term Lok Sabha MP from Thiruvananthapuram has also made his own space within the Congress as a leader who speaks his mind, particularly on the values he believes in — both inside and, at times, outside party fora. His full embrace of his reputation as an English user with a love for obscure words is one of the reasons he is a darling of netizens. Recently, Tharoor was inducted into the Congress Working Committee, little over a year after he took on Mallikarjun Kharge for the Congress president’s post. The unprecedented support Tharoor got made it difficult for the AICC establishment to continue ignoring him.
Power Punch
Even as the Congress prevaricated on the issue of inviting its top leaders for the Ram Temple inauguration, and the Hamas October 7 attack on Israel, Tharoor spoke his mind.
What Next
He recently hinted that 2024 could be his last election from the constituency, indicating he wanted to move to state politics.
Social media quotient
X: @Shash*tharoor 8.4M followers
85) Kumar MangalamBirla, 56
Chairman, Aditya Birla Group
Why
Flagbearer of one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious business houses, Birla oversees an industrial conglomerate with a turnover of $65 billion and operations in 40 countries across six continents. In 2023, he received the Padma Bhushan and was ranked as the ninth-richest Indian and 124th globally by Forbes.
Power Punch
The Aditya Birla Group’s footprint spans diverse sectors, including metals, pulp, fibre, chemicals, textiles, telecom and hospitality. Helming the group for nearly three decades, Birla has ensured that his revenue has grown well over 30 times in that time.
What Next
He is hoping to foray into branded jewellery and decorative paints. The push for further diversification comes at a time when the group has seemingly initiated a succession plan with Ananya and Aryaman, the older of Birla’s three children, joining the boards of a few group companies. Birla is betting big on his decorative paints business, expecting it to become profitable with ?10,000 crore in three years of full-scale operations.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
86) Ramdev, 58
Yoga guru, businessman
Why
The yoga guru-turned-entrepreneur behind Patanjali Ayurved, a leading consumer brand with a $7-billion market capitalisation, Ramdev is now venturing into the premium foods category to reach Rs 1 lakh crore revenue in five years. He co-founded Patanjali with Acharya Balkrishna, who has a net worth of $3.2 billion.
Power Punch
Ramdev was under fire in November last year when the Supreme Court imposed Rs 1 crore costs per false claim made by Patanjali. However, Patanjali’s stock price has remained untouched, soaring 70 per cent in FY24. Incidentally, Patanjali Foods has prepared a vision document for the next five years to become the largest player in the food-FMCG business, which includes an aggressive growth plan to reach Rs 5,000 crore operational profit and over Rs 50,000 crore turnover.
What Next
Ramdev’s Patanjali Ayurved bid Rs 830 crore to acquire debt-ridden Rolta India, a defence-focused software company with significant real estate assets. Eyes will be on this as it marks a significant pivot from Patanjali’s FMCG business.
Social media quotient
X: @yogrishiramdev 2.6M followers
87) Deepika Padukone, 38
Actor
Why
Having proved her acting chops and having won several accolades, Deepika Padukone has established herself as a bonafide action star with feisty characters in Pathaan (2023), Jawan (2023) and Fighter (2024), all of which generated several hundred crores for the industry and overturned the definition of an action hero, so far a male preserve. The actor-producer, who founded LiveLoveLaugh Foundation that works on creating awareness about mental health, is also known as a successful entrepreneur and a brand ambassador for global luxury brands.
Power Punch
Padukone was part of an elite group of presenters at the BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts), which included footballer David Beckham, actor Cate Blanchett and singer Dua Lipa. In 2023, she presented the Oscar for Best Song to Naatu Naatu from the film RRR.
What Next
Padukone will play the woman pivot in Kalki 2898 AD, a sci-fiction directed by Nag Ashwin. She will join Rohit Shetty’s “cop universe” with Singham Again as a feisty police woman.
Social media quotient
Instagram: @deepikapadukone 78.6M followers
88) Sunil Bharti Mittal, 66
Chairperson, Bharati Enterprises
Why
Even though the entry of Reliance Jio spelled trouble for a number of telecom companies, under Sunil Bharti Mittal’s leadership, Bharti Airtel emerged from the consolidation largely unscathed. Airtel has been a key player in rolling out 5G infrastructure in India, alongside Reliance Jio, making the rollout of the communication tech fastest in the country compared to anywhere in the world. Airtel’s well-considered strategy of carrying the low-cost, high-volume Minutes Factory in Africa has made it as familiar a brand in nearly half of Africa as in India.
Power Punch
Airtel-backed OneWeb scored a symbolic victory over rival Jio’s satellite communication with its pitch to allocate spectrum, eventually getting the government’s approval.
What Next
Airtel will have to stop unlimited 5G plans at some point in 2024 and begin monetisation of the technology for which it has paid top dollar in the spectrum auction. Getting the pricing right will be crucial for 5G to make business sense at a consumer level for the company.
Social media quotient
Not on social media
89) Praful Khoda Patel, 66
Administrator of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and Lakshadweep
Why
Frequent controversies — be it the ban on cow slaughter and sale, transport and storage of beef to the anti-social activities regulation — and the protests from the residents of Lakshadweep have not dented his authority. Patel is said to enjoy the confidence of PM Modi — in his brief stint as MLA, he was Minister of State for Home when Modi was the Gujarat CM — and continues to implement his projects in the archipelago, which is strategically important to India.
Power Punch
He ensured Modi’s January visit to Lakshadweep was a huge success and an international event. The visit has also become a promotion for the tourism industry there.
What Next
Patel will have to see projects worth Rs 1,150 crore are efficiently implemented. With the Maldives now being inclined to China, the Union Territory’s strategic importance has increased. An airport for defence purposes on the Minicoy Island, which is closest to the Maldives, is also on the cards and Patel is expected to be the man in charge to ensure this is rolled out.
Social media quotient
X: @prafulkpatel 44K followers
90) Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, 59
Chief Minister, Himachal Pradesh
Why
Seen as the common man’s chief minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has managed to carve a niche for himself in the hill state where the Congress was earlier defined by old satraps from well-heeled families. Once a bus conductor, Sukhu has steered the state out of the economic crisis after the monsoon fury last year wiped out 400 lives and infrastructure worth Rs 12,000 crore. Sukhu contributed Rs 51 lakh to the disaster relief fund and has been very proactive in trying to get tourists back to the state.
Power Punch
The CM has been able to deftly manoeuvre the hurdles posed by MP Pratibha Singh, the wife of late five-time CM Virbhadra Singh and her son and minister Vikramaditya Singh. A few weeks back, he gave the latter a jolt when he pruned his portfolio only to add to it later.
What Next
He plans to give a big push to both agriculture and industry in the state with policy changes such as tax concessions to milk producers. In the pipeline is a comprehensive sports policy offering financial incentives to athletes who win medals internationally.
Social media quotient
X: @SukhuSukhvinder 65.8K followers
91) Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, 67
Leader of the Indian National Congress in Lok Sabha
Why
As the leader of the much depleted Congress side in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has often punched above his party’s weight in the House. The aggression even earned him a suspension. Prime Minister Narendra Modi too makes it a point to respond to Chowdhury’s barbs in the House. He is the Opposition’s voice in Prime Minister-headed high-power committees which pick the CBI Director, Central Vigilance Commissioner, Chief Information Commissioner, Chairman and members of the NHRC and the Lokpal.
Power Punch
Despite Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress being a part of the INDIA bloc and the Congress central leadership signaling that there could be seat adjustments with her party, Chowdhury— a fighter with a grassroots connect — made it clear that an alliance would be possible only if the Congress got a respectable number of seats.
What Next
For the Lok Sabha elections, he hopes to stitch an alliance with the Left and not only retain the two seats the Congress has in West Bengal but also better its performance.
Social media quotient
X: @adhirrcinc 80K followers
92) Prashant Bhushan, 67
Public interest lawyer
Why
From high stakes corruption battles, judicial accountability to public issues that resonate across the country, for over two decades, Prashant Bhushan has doggedly pursued his causes before the Supreme Court. When spaces for pushback are shrinking, Bhushan has used Public Interest Litigation (PIL) as an effective check and balance. Winning some and losing several, he continues to challenge successive governments.
Power Punch
Bhushan’s persistence in the case challenging the electoral bonds scheme saw the SC deliver a body blow to the government’s ambitious law. This was one of the biggest setbacks to the Modi government since it came to power in 2014. During the pandemic, Bhushan’s cases included the challenge against vaccine mandates and protection of migrant workers.
What Next
Besides contesting the procedure of selection of the Chief Election Commissioner by the Centre, another cause Bhushan has taken up is against GM crops. The case is yet to be taken up in court.
Social media quotient
X: @pbhushan1 2.4M followers
93) Hemant Soren, 47
Former Chief Minister, Jharkhand
Why
Former CM Hemant Soren is at the centre of the political turmoil in Jharkhand, which is among the handful of Opposition-ruled states. He has faced one controversy after another, from the yet-to-be-publicised Election Commission inquiry into his ownership of a mining lease to his “disappearance” a day before the ED raided his Delhi residence only to reappear in Ranchi ahead of a crucial transition of power. He is now in prison.
Power Punch
Anticipating his arrest by the ED, which had summoned him 10 times by late January, Soren personally tendered his resignation as CM at the Raj Bhavan to ensure a smooth transition of power to new CM Champai Soren and outmanoeuvre any attempt to impose President’s Rule. Hemant used his opportunity to address the Assembly during the ensuing floor test to target the BJP, calling it “anti-Adivasi” and setting the tone for the LS elections.
What Next
The biggest challenge for Soren is emerging from the corruption shadow, with the ED also investigating other cases in which his name has come up.
Social media quotient
X: @HemantSorenJMM 1M followers
94) Sharad Pawar, 83
President, Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar)
Why
Even after six decades in politics, Pawar continues to be a crucial behind-the-scenes strategist and mover of Maharashtra and national politics. He is currently facing one of his biggest challenges yet, with nephew Ajit Pawar splitting the party and joining the BJP-Shiv Sena coalition. Just days after the Election Commission recognised Ajit Pawar’s faction as the real NCP, it allotted a new symbol, that of a ‘man blowing turha’, to the Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar.
Power Punch
Despite his diminished party, Pawar remains the guiding light and glue for the Opposition MVA in Maharashtra. A reputation of political stealth and a network of trustworthy comrades across all parties mean his opponents know they can’t take him lightly.
What Next
After the split, which saw many senior leaders joining the Ajit camp, Pawar is looking at the challenge of giving the party a new identity and building confidence from the ground up. It is being speculated that daughter Supriya Sule may be named working president.
Social media quotient
X: @PawarSpeaks 2.8M followers
++++
95) Uddhav Thackeray, 63
President, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray)
Why
Thackeray has suffered blow after blow in the last two years. There was the split of the Sena and the subsequent ruling of the Maharashtra Speaker that the Eknath Shinde-led Sena was the “official” party. Finding himself back at the drawing board and having to rebuild the party, Thackeray is still going strong, touring across the state to keep his voter base intact for the fight against the BJP-led NDA. And while he appears ready, there are questions whether the second rung leadership of the Shiv Sena, has the appetite for more battles with the BJP. And though not completely separated from its earlier communal avatar, his party seems to connect more to issues of social justice.
Power Punch
Despite being weak organisationally, Thackeray has, to an extent, succeeded in retaining sympathy after the split. How he manages to spin this needs to be seen.
What Next
Left with just 17 sitting MLAs and 6 MPs, Thackeray is facing a big challenge in the Lok Sabha polls and in the Assembly elections that will follow. Then there is the question of retaining the party cadre on the ground.
Social media quotient
X: @OfficeofUT 1.6M followers
96) Sadhguru, 66
Founder, Isha Foundation
Why
Apart from being an influential spiritual leader, Sadhguru has recently emerged as an advocate of social causes, the most recent ones focusing on climate activism and ecological preservation.
He has lent momentum to the community movement for agro-forestry, planting saplings in farmlands to offset farmers’ income.
He has been at the forefront of tree plantation along the Cauvery although scientists say it isn’t enough to hold the soil together. Therefore, he is now focused on recharging the soil by increasing its organic content. A Padma Vibhushan, he has been a key speaker at the UN World Headquarters, World Economic Forum as well as universities such as Oxford, Stanford and Harvard.
Power Punch
The Science-20 summit meeting of the G20 was held at Isha Yoga Centre, Coimbatore, where 100 delegates from across 20-member countries attended to discuss possibilities of clean energy. He has been able to draw international celebrities like Leonardo Di Caprio for his campaigns.
What Next
He is now focusing on mental health and wellness and foraying into education by integrating external skill sets with “tools for inner transformation”.
SOCIAL MEDIA QUOTIENT
X: @SadhguruJV 4M followers
97) Karan Johar, 51
Director and producer
Why
Since his debut 25 years ago, Karan Johar has emerged as a major filmmaker, producer and a bridge between southern films and the Hindi film industry, delivering blockbuster hits. One who wears many hats, as director, writer, producer, talent-show judge and chat-show host, he ventured into advertising with Dharma 2.0, with the aim to create a boutique production house. Dharmatic Entertainment is dedicated to OTT content while Dharma Cornerstone Agency is grooming new talent.
Power Punch
Last year, Johar had a massive hit, winning critical appreciation for the rom-com Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani, his seventh directorial feature after seven years. He also continued to create buzz with Koffee With Karan Season 8.
What Next
Dharma Productions is breaking out of mushy romance and pursuing other genres like the Sidharth Malhotra-starrer hijack drama Yodha, Mr & Mrs Mahi, based on cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s life, with Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor, and a prison break drama, Jigra, with Alia Bhatt. Dharmatic Entertainment has Ae Watan Mere Watan with Sara Ali Khan in the role of an underground radio station host during the freedom struggle.
Social media quotient
Instagram: @karanjohar 16.8M followers
98) Yusuff Ali M A, 68
Chairman and MD, Lulu group
Why
Yusuff Ali M A, chairman and managing director of the UAE-based Lulu Group, is the richest man from Kerala and one of the biggest success stories of an expatriate in West Asia. The Lulu Group operates hypermarkets and malls in 23 countries across West Asia, South Asia, the US and Europe, with an annual turnover of around $8 billion and an employee count of over 65,000. Other assets include the Waldorf Astoria in Scotland and the Great Scotland Yard Hotel, the former headquarters of the UK Metropolitan Police.
Power Punch
A resourceful businessman with connections across party lines, Yusuff Ali’s Lulu Group has malls in six Indian cities, Hyderabad being the latest in 2023. The group has announced India’s biggest shopping mall in Ahmedabad at an estimated cost of Rs 4,000 crore.
What Next
The Lulu Group is set to launch its initial public offering (IPO) and will be listed in the Gulf. It also plans to operationalise a 25,000-tonne capacity food processing unit in Greater Noida, later this year.
Social media quotient
X: @Yusuffali_MA 58.7K followers
99) Amitabh Bachchan, 81
Actor
Why
There may be many Badshahs and Sultans but Amitabh Bachchan continues to be the Shahenshah of the film industry, appearing in over 200 films for over five decades. Once called a “one-man industry” by French director François Truffaut, he continues to reinvent himself for every generation, either with character-driven roles or as a game show host, brand messenger and now a social media icon.
Power Punch
The Celebrity Brand Valuation Report of 2023 pegs Amitabh Bachchan’s brand value at $79 million. The 81-year-old star is unstoppable as a video of him running around his garden in a hoodie went viral last December. A frugal eater, he never misses out on cardio, weight training and yoga, showing how fitness can conquer ageism. He just announced his team, Majhi Mumbai, ahead of the inaugural edition of the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL).
What Next
An extended cameo act in The Umesh Chronicles, the sci-fi epic, Kalki 2898 AD, Tamil film Vettaiyan with Rajnikanth and playback singer in Kannada film Butterfly.
Social media quotient
X: @SrBachchan, 48.8M followers
++++
100) Vinesh Phogat, 29
World Champion, wrestling
Why
She was the face of the wrestlers’ protest against the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Vinesh was the first who accused the BJP MP of sexual harassment. The agitation was seen as a seminal moment in Indian sport, where power often lies with the administrators and not the players.
Power Punch
Multiple World Championship medallist Vinesh, along with Olympic medallists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, forced the government, which tried delaying things, to take action against the WFI chief. It was their three month-long sit-in at Jantar Mantar in Delhi that forced Brij Bhushan to ‘retire’ from the sport’s administration even as the court continued to hear the case against him. Vinesh, the most vocal of the three, also returned her Khel Ratna and Arjuna award in protest after Sanjay Singh, a loyalist of Bhushan, was elected WFI president.
What Next
As she returns to action after spending the whole of 2023 away from the mat, first due to protests and then owing to an injury, Vinesh’s challenge will be to get into the team for this summer’s Paris Olympics. The 53kg Olympic weight category is the one she will aim for to make it to Paris.
Social media quotient
Instagram: @vineshphogat 289K followers
