Mumbai, 18th March 2026: CNBC-TV18, India’s leading English business news channel, hosted the 21st edition of the India Business Leader Awards (IBLA), one of the country’s most prestigious platforms recognising leadership across sectors. The evening brought together some of India’s most influential voices from government, business, sports and public policy to celebrate individuals and institutions whose contributions continue to shape India’s economic progress and growing global stature.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry; Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir, currently Head Coach of the India Men’s Cricket Team; and Indian cricket star Suryakumar Yadav. The event also saw the presence of Benedetto Vigna, CEO of Ferrari, alongside leading entrepreneurs, policymakers and industry stalwarts, including Kumar Mangalam Birla Chairperson, Aditya Birla Group, Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited and Tech Mahindra Limited and Anand Deshpande, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, Persistent Systems.
Over the past two decades, the India Business Leader Awards have evolved into a benchmark for recognizing individuals whose leadership, innovation and resilience have helped propel India’s growth story. 21st edition of the India Business Leader Awards (IBLA) continued this legacy by honoring pioneers redefining excellence across sectors including technology, manufacturing, finance, entrepreneurship and social impact.
Speaking at the ceremony, Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, said:
Platforms like CNBC-TV18 and initiatives such as the India Business Leader Awards play a crucial role in recognizing excellence across sectors including technology, manufacturing, finance, entrepreneurship and social impact.
He also highlighted India’s efforts to diversify its energy sourcing in recent years by expanding imports of crude oil, LPG and LNG through multiple international partners. “Our requirements of LPG, LNG and crude oil are being met through diversified imports. India has significantly expanded sourcing from countries including the United States, Russia and Canada, ensuring that shipping routes and supplies remain secure,” he said.
Goyal added that diversification of energy sources has been a consistent policy priority of the government and has accelerated in recent years.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dr. Anand Deshpande, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, Persistent Systems, recognizing his pioneering contribution to India’s technology and IT services sector over more than three decades.
Reflecting on the journey of building a technology-driven enterprise, Dr. Deshpande said: “This recognition reflects a journey of more than 35 years built on teamwork and perseverance. Businesses like ours are never built by one individual; they are shaped by dedicated colleagues who share a long-term vision and remain committed to pushing the boundaries of technology. I have been fortunate to work with an incredible team that has contributed immensely to our growth.”
Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairperson, Aditya Birla Group, honored as Entrepreneur of the Decade, said, “Platforms like the CNBC-TV18 India Business Leader Awards reinforce that enduring success is rooted in values that stand the test of time. Aditya Birla’s journey has always been anchored in principles that transcend generations’ legacy, trusteeship, integrity, and a deep commitment to giving back to society. These values continue to guide every decision we make. Even amid global geopolitical uncertainties, India remains a resilient economy, supported by strong domestic fundamentals and an enduring spirit of enterprise.”
Among the winners, the Entertainment Leader of the Year award went to acclaimed Actor and Director Rishab Shetty, recognizing his contribution to Indian cinema through powerful regional storytelling and distinctive filmmaking. Sharing his thoughts on storytelling and cinema, Rishab Shetty said: “We started with a vision of ₹14 crore, and today that journey has grown into a ₹1000 crore story. From the very beginning, our focus has been on telling strong regional stories that truly connect with audiences. I am deeply grateful to viewers and the film industry for their continued support. At present, I am focusing on Jai Hanuman, my upcoming mythological film as an actor.”
Jay Shah Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) was recognized for his Outstanding Contribution to Sports. Speaking about Indian cricket’s success in recent years, he said: “Congratulations to the entire team. Between 2019 and 2026, Indian cricket has had an incredible run, winning the T20 title twice, including back-to-back victories, which reflects the team’s consistency and strength. I have followed cricket since 1998, and today, when we say India, it almost feels synonymous with winning. The ICC World Cup triumph was a turning point that gave the team immense confidence. At the BCCI, we had planned a roadmap through 2028, and today, confidence in Indian cricket is strong enough to look even further ahead to 2036 and beyond.”
Indian cricketer Suryakumar Yadav was honoured as Sports Leader of the Year, recognising his remarkable contribution to Indian cricket and his fearless, innovative approach to the modern game.
Speaking about India’s recent ICC T20 World Cup victory, he said: “Inside the dressing room, it is always a democratic environment where everyone is encouraged to share ideas and perspectives. There are always different plans and opinions, but ultimately, the goal is the same. Listening to everyone is important, even though sometimes not everyone will be happy with the final decision. But that is part of team sport. Looking ahead, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are definitely on the horizon, especially since cricket will be part of the Games for the first time. It will be very special. We will take some time to relax now, but soon we will begin preparing again with the dream of achieving something extraordinary and winning an Olympic gold for India.”
With a legacy spanning 21 years, the India Business Leader Awards continue to serve as a benchmark for excellence, recognising leaders who are not only shaping businesses but also contributing meaningfully to India’s journey toward becoming a global economic powerhouse.
