IE100: The most powerful Indians in 2023 (from 11 to 50)

Along with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her Bihar counterpart Nitish Kumar, Rahul is the only non-ruling establishment name in the top 15 (barring Mukesh Ambani, that is). The fact that both outrank Gandhi is a reflection of the flux in the shrinking and challenged Opposition space, with regional parties refusing to cede primacy to the Congress. The Punjab win means Arvind Kejriwal remains in contention, but with corruption charges clouding his moral high ground and his No. 2 in custody, he is down seven ranks.

Within the top ranks composed interchangeably of government and Sangh Parivar bosses, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has surged to No. 3, ahead of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and BJP president JP Nadda. With G20 presidency and India’s foreign ties central to the Modi government’s 2024 campaign, Jaishankar is the muscular brain that fits the BJP bill just right.

The other BJP face with a sharp rise is Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, who zooms from No. 32 to 17, riding on both shrill Hindutva and skilled electioneering, powering the party in the Northeast. Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, an unknown till Modi picked him in 2021, has settled comfortably into his prominent portfolios, thus climbing 30 places to No. 19.

Most new entrants are either players in the coming election-packed year, or those, like Mallikarjun Kharge and Eknath Shinde to Delhi L-G Vinai Kumar Saxena, who have seen a change in fortunes. On the other side of this spectrum is Gautam Adani, left poorer by several billion dollars and 26 ranks, to No. 33, by a report from a little-known short-selling firm.

Bollywood, the much-vaunted soft power, much-maligned for being too soft, comes in only at No. 50. Not surprisingly, it is in the form of Shah Rukh Khan, the Pathaan who did not crawl. The 57-year-old superstar is right back at the top, a year after his son’s arrest on drug charges that fell in court, having given the Indian film industry one of its biggest hits. That would be Rs 1,046 crore, and climbing. Yet, politics remains the grist to the power mill — especially as the countdown begins to Elections 2024.

Here’s the full list of the most powerful people (11-50 rank) from India

11) Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister of India
Rank last year: 13

Union Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh (Express Photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

Why

An experienced politician, Rajnath Singh is the government’s senior-most minister who plays the role of an anchor and a trouble-shooter. He is the first full-time defence minister in the NDA government. A prominent face in Uttar Pradesh politics for decades, Singh is one of the most-accepted leaders in the BJP, with wide administrative and political experience.

Power Punch

Having previously served as home minister, he has a 360-degree view on matters related to national security. He is also known for his relations across party lines, which stands the BJP and the government in good stead during a crisis. He keeps a busy calendar, meeting officials and counterparts from other countries.

What Next

Given his past record, the BJP will rely on Singh’s strong support base in UP for the general elections next year. In his current profile, he has taken personal interest in the government’s plans of achieving self-reliance in defence and taking India’s defence exports to $5 billion by 2025.

By The Way

He is deeply interested in spirituality and practises yoga every morning.

12) BL Santhosh, National General Secretary (Organisation), BJP
Rank last year: 14

BJP National General Secretary (Organisation) BL Santhosh

Why

BL Santhosh has been a crucial part of every major decision and move made by the BJP ever since he became party national general secretary (Organisation) in 2019. Unlike most of his predecessors who kept out of the spotlight, Santhosh has been vocal on various issues and airs his views frequently on social media.

Power Punch

It’s not wrong to imagine that Santhosh has become PM Modi’s emissary when it comes to speaking tough to party MPs or ruling chief ministers. Be it sticking to BJP’s ideological agenda or ensuring there’s effective coordination between the RSS and the BJP, Santosh is invariably at the helm. At the BJP national executive meets in Hyderabad and Delhi, Santhosh ensured that the discussions remained confidential, restraining party leaders from talking out of turn. In the Delhi meet, he even made the attendees keep their mobile phones outside the hall.

What Next

As someone who has always been actively involved in Karnataka politics and decisions taken by the party and the government, a win for the BJP in the southern state is essential for him to maintain his stature in the party.

By the way

He is a big fan of Shah Rukh Khan’s film Chak De! India (2007) and has watched it numerous times.

13) Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister
Rank last year: 11

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee (Express photo by Partha Paul)

Why

One of the most powerful Opposition leaders in the country, in 2021, Banerjee single-handedly helped the Trinamool Congress (TMC) win the high-voltage Assembly polls in West Bengal, defeating a surging BJP, becoming the CM of the state for the third straight term. The TMC now hopes to win the state’s three-tier panchayat polls and next year’s Lok Sabha elections in her name.

Power Punch

A street fighter, Banerjee has the unmatched ability to read the pulse of the people and connect with the grassroots. From announcing popular social welfare schemes to excising party leaders whose presence became untenable due to corruption charges, she has so far been able to control the narrative.

What Next

Following her electoral success in Bengal, Banerjee has been making attempts to stitch together an Opposition alliance against the BJP ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. She has made it clear that the Congress can’t expect to be the pole around which other parties gravitate, and has reached out to regional players. With West Bengal accounting for 42 Lok Sabha seats, she can expect to be counted among the kingmakers if she manages to score another impressive performance.

By the way

Banerjee writes poetry and also composes music.

14) Nitish Kumar, Bihar Chief Minister
Rank last year: 54

Bihar Chief minister Nitish Kumar (Express Photo by Anil Sharma)

Why

Despite switching alliances, Nitish Kumar continues to remain the fulcrum of Bihar’s politics. The longest-serving CM of Bihar is now seen as eyeing a key role in national politics, and of late has thrown the ball in the Congress’s court. Kumar, though, has kept everyone guessing — keeping his deputy Tejashwi Yadav happy by indicating the CM’s position would next be his, though not making this clear one way or the other as all hangs on the success of his national ambitions.

Power Punch

Kumar left the BJP perplexed last August as he quit the NDA and returned to the Mahagathbandan, saying the JD(U) felt “suffocated” in the alliance. His move came five years after he resigned as CM and walked out of the Mahagathbandhan to join the BJP-led alliance.

What Next

A powerful position at the Centre is what Kumar hopes to move to. But if the Grand Alliance does not fare well in 2024, Kumar’s political future even vis-a-vis ally RJD may be precarious. Should the BJP fall short of a majority in 2024 and the JD(U) get even 10-plus seats, trust Kumar to find a way to some role at the Centre.

By the way

Kumar likes his evening bhuja party with his associates.

15) Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader
Rank last year: 51

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi (Express Photo by Amit Mehra)

Why

His party still a losing electoral proposition, its organisation still a mess, Rahul Gandhi has sprung back. His 136-day Bharat Jodo Yatra earned him the respect of his colleagues and allies and forced his opponents, who have caricatured him as a non-serious, entitled scion, to take note. His disqualification from the House following his conviction in a defamation case — the nature of the case and the speed with which he was suspended — have united the Opposition, for now, and hardened the battlelines.

Power Punch

Attacked for his gloom-and-doom remarks in the UK, he stood his ground. After his suspension, he framed the contest in clear ideological terms when he said he was fighting for ‘the voice of India’ and was ready to pay any price. How this translates in the poll booth is the enduring challenge for him and his party.

What Next

The way the defamation conviction and his appeals play out inside the courts will also define his campaign outside. Replicating the Bharat Jodo Yatra mobilisation will be a challenge. Karnataka, with polls in April, will be his first test this year.

By the way

During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, he didn’t use any sunscreen during his long trek across the country.

16) Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Chief Minister
Rank last year: 9

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal (Express Photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

Why

Recording its first win in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi polls in December last year helped solidify the position of the Aam Aadmi Party and its chief Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi politics. After winning five seats in the Gujarat Assembly, Kejriwal is looking to extend his influence to other states.

Power Punch

Kejriwal, who for the last four years was wary of attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly, can now be seen going all out against him. He has also managed to become an important part of the bloc that finds itself standing against the BJP, with other Opposition leaders signing a letter to the PM alleging “blatant misuse” of Central agencies after the arrest of Kejriwal’s deputy Manish Sisodia. With representatives in Assemblies in four states — Delhi, Punjab, Goa and Gujarat — AAP is also set to become the country’s newest national party.

What Next

Assembly polls in Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh later this year will be a litmus test for Kejriwal’s national ambitions. The legal battle in Sisodia’s and Satyendar Jain’s cases will also be followed closely by him as well as parties across the country.

By the way

After renovating his house at Flagstaff Road, Civil Lines, Kejriwal holds most of his meetings in the camp office.

17) Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assam Chief Minister
Rank last year: 32

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma (Express Photo by Prem Nath Pandey)

Why

Having established himself as the most powerful leader in Assam and as the BJP’s go-to person for political manoeuvring in the Northeast, Sarma is emerging as a national figure. He regularly keeps himself front and centre in national conversations with his statements and actions such as the state-wide crackdown against child marriages in Assam. The BJP has started deploying him for campaigning outside the Northeast, from Gujarat to Karnataka; he also pitched in for the Delhi civic polls.

Power Punch

Sarma played a crucial role in the BJP’s game plan to return to power in Tripura, Meghalaya and Nagaland, from guiding alliance-building negotiations to campaigning extensively. After seeing off the challenge in Tripura and winning Nagaland, he also made the first move to ensure a place in the Meghalaya government for the BJP despite having just two seats and strained ties with its coalition partner National People’s Party.

What Next

He will be key to the BJP’s Lok Sabha campaign in the Northeast next year, where the party will look to increase its sizeable footprint.

By the way

He has watched only about seven movies in the last decade.

18) Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Enforcement Directorate Chief
Rank last year: 46

ED Chief Sanjay Kumar Mishra

Why

Last year, Sanjay Mishra became the first Enforcement Directorate (ED) chief to get a five-year tenure after the government gave him yet another extension. In fact, amendments were pushed through Parliament for this. An IRS officer with a long career in the Income Tax Department, Mishra has transformed the agency so dramatically that leaders have moved on from demanding CBI inquiries to asking for ED probes. The agency under him has acted against top politicians across the country.

Power Punch

During the Budget Session of Parliament, PM Narendra Modi said the ED had achieved what voters couldn’t — it had brought the Opposition together. The statement underlined the vigour with which the agency has gone after politicians from Opposition ranks. It also showed the government’s trust in the agency under Mishra’s watch.

What Next

With the Supreme Court upholding all provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, the agency now has unfettered powers. Mishra’s challenge will be to protect the reputation of the agency when it is under focus.

By the way

Mishra runs 10 km daily and follows a Keto diet.

19) Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Telecom and IT
Rank last year: 49

Minister of Railways, Telecom and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw (Express Photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

Why

Handling crucial ministries like Railways, Telecom and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw is now one of the most important ministers in the Modi cabinet. Given that he was elevated from relative obscurity, Vaishnaw is seen to be the choice of the PM himself.

Power Punch

He has untangled the Vande Bharat production deadlock and now the showpiece trains are rolling out every month, almost all of them flagged off by the PM. Under his mentorship, the long-standing logjam over railway station redevelopment is also over, with over 1,200 stations now identified and at various stages of development. As the Telecom and IT minister, he deftly handled the sale of spectrum and introduction of 5G, avoiding controversies.

What Next

Racing towards rolling out 75 Vande Bharat services by August 15, 2024, as announced by the PM from the Red Fort, the Railways Ministry also has to chalk out a plan to spend 2.6 lakh crore by March 2024. He has to ensure that 5G adoption steers clear of hitches.

By the way

Vaishnaw has a habit of closing his eyes while giving dictation especially for critical things like drafting Cabinet notes.

20) Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Law and Justice
Rank last year: 52

Minister of Law and Justice Kiren Rijiju (Express Photo by Prem Nath Pandey)

Why

A three-time Lok Sabha MP from Arunachal Pradesh, Kiren Rijiju took over as Union Minister for Law and Justice in July 2021, surprising many in the legal fraternity. Claiming to be an outsider to the profession, unlike his predecessors, Rijiju expresses his views freely. His brusque remarks on issues ranging from the collegium’s functioning to court vacations have caused friction with the judiciary.

Power Punch

Apart from raising the political tempo on judicial appointments, Rijiju has remained steadfast on several recommendations. In an apparent response to the Supreme Court’s observations regarding the government delaying the transfer of high court judges, he said that the country will function according to the need of its people and under the guidance of the Constitution, and nobody can give a warning to anyone. His statement almost initiated contempt proceedings against the law ministry. This came on a day the Centre cleared the names of five judges for elevation to the Supreme Court.

What Next

Rijiju has his task cut out — not just a careful balancing act with the judiciary but also his own future in the party.

By the way

He loves to spend time with his Shih Tzu pup.

21) Shaktikanta Das, Reserve Bank of India Governor
Rank last year: 21

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das (Express Photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

Why

As the 25th Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Shaktikanta Das has been steering the central bank and the economy effectively for the last four years. During the Covid years, Das took proactive measures which helped the country’s financial institutions and the economy mitigate challenges, and resulted in a stable macro environment. Meanwhile, as international regulators look at rescue packages for their unstable banks, Das’s regulatory changes for India in recent years have given stability and resilience to its financial system.

Power Punch

After lowering the repo rate by 115 basis points and providing liquidity support during 2020 and 2021, Das has hiked the key lending rate by 250 basis points in the last 10 months amid rising interest rate scenarios by the global central banks and to tackle inflation. He also changed the monetary policy stance to ‘withdrawal of accommodation’ from ‘accommodative’ in May 2022.

What Next

The key challenge for Das in 2023 would be bringing down inflation to four per cent as mandated by the government, while also supporting growth.

By the way

Das follows cricket very closely.

22) Natarajan Chandrasekharan, Tata Sons PVT LTD Chairman 
Rank last year: 22

Tata chief N Chandrasekaran (Express Photo by Pradip Das)

Why

N Chandrasekaran got a second term as Tata Sons Chairman and the decision was unanimous, as his first term saw the revival of several companies of the group, including Jaguar Land Rover and Tata Steel.

Power Punch

The Tata Group, under Chandrasekaran, not just won a bid to buy the government’s stake in Air India but also convinced Singapore International Airlines — the group’s partner in airline joint-venture Vistara — to merge Vistara with Air India and become a partner in the airline. With the merger of AirAsia India with Air India Express and Vistara with Air India, the group will become the second largest airline in terms of market share in the country.

What Next

The key challenge for Chandrasekaran will be to ensure a smooth merger of the airlines and decide on a long-term plan for the airline venture. With the economy slowing in large parts of the developed world, he will need to ensure that group companies are able to maintain growth.

By the way

Chandrasekaran has participated in marathons in several cities, from Boston and Berlin to Tokyo and New York.

23) Mallikarjun Kharge, Indian National Congress President 
Rank last year: Not on list

Newly elected Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge (Express Photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

Why

The veteran leader from Karnataka became the first person in 24 years outside the Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty to become the president of the once-mighty Congress. The Gandhis place immense trust in Kharge, who continues to be the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha. Kharge’s experience is an asset to the party which is struggling to outwit the BJP. Kharge’s elevation has made him the most significant Dalit figure in contemporary politics.

Power Punch

Although Shashi Tharoor put up a spirited fight, Kharge’s candidature ensured that the party stayed united in his support. He also wrote the obituary of G 23 as all its influential figures rallied behind him.

What Next

The challenge before Kharge is to keep the party united and make it battle-ready for a crucial election year. He will have to ensure that there is minimal division in the party when he constitutes the Congress Working Committee afresh and handpicks AICC office bearers.

By the way

A stickler for cleanliness, Kharge wants everything to be in perfect order — even a missing coaster on the coffee table can rankle him.

24) Manoj Sinha, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor 
Rank last year: 71

L-G Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha (Express Photo by Abhinav Saha)Why

It is not easy to run Jammu and Kashmir, especially after the abrogation of its special status in 2019. While it saw his predecessor being transferred in just a year after revocation of special status, Manoj Sinha has managed to cling on to power for almost three years now. Also, at the Centre, the belief is that the dynasty reigns of the Abdullahs and the Muftis are passe and Jammu and Kashmir needs new faces. Sinha has been brought in to identify younger politicians, who can bridge the gap with seniors of the region as well as bring disparate sections of the society together.

Power Punch

After a long gap, Sinha has managed to get the first foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Valley. A two-screen cinema multiplex and a big shopping mall, now in the works, are two big visible changes that he is pushing for despite the security challenges. In pushing forward the development agenda, the L-G has always acknowledged that the conflict has scarred both the communities, which adds to his credibility.

What Next

With the assembly elections overdue, Sinha’s biggest challenge would be to ensure a conducive atmosphere for free and fair elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

By the way

He’s fond of quoting from Ramdhari Singh Dinkar’s poems, especially the epic Rashmirathi (1952).

25) Amitabh Khant, G20 Sherpa, Government of India
Rank last year: 92

G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant

Why

Amitabh Kant, a former 1980-batch Kerala cadre IAS officer, has to deal not only with global diplomats but also a wide spectrum of politicians and bureaucrats for holding over 200 meetings across the length and breadth of the country in the run-up to the G20 summit in September 2023.

Power Punch

Kant succeeded Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to become India’s Sherpa at G20. Before moving to Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, Kant served as the Chief Executive Officer, NITI Aayog, which is headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Known for his effective communication skills and ability to carry out time-bound delivery of initiatives, Kant has handled politically sensitive issues like the Aspirational District Programme. He also headed one of the empowered group of officers constituted to formulate the government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

What Next

The immediate task at hand for Kant is the successful organisation of the G20 summit.

By the way

He loves listening to Chitra Singh’s ghazal: “Hum ko dushman ki nigaahon se na dekha keejiye”.

26) Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways 
Rank last year: 26

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari (Express Photo by Renuka Puri)

Why

Nitin Gadkari enjoys personal goodwill on both sides of the political aisle and is seen as a minister who has performed consistently. He is arguably the only minister who is openly praised by Opposition camps in Parliament. Gadkari, the longest-serving Road Transport and Highways Minister, has held the same portfolio since 2014 and is candid about the shortcomings in his own ministry.

Power Punch

He delivered key projects such as the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and Delhi-Meerut Expressway, the government’s infrastructure assets in the highways sector. His ministry leads the PM Gati Shakti initiative involving multiple ministries.

What Next

Like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, he has to deliver the much-awaited Delhi-Dehradun Expressway before the 2024 Lok Sabha election. He will also steer the roll-out of the vehicle-scrapping policy for government-owned vehicles and the establishment of scrapping and testing centres across India.

By the way

It is common for people of Nagpur to bump into Gadkari, treating his grandchildren to ice cream, at night, sometimes even without security. During winter, he stops by roadside vendors to eat bhutta.

27) Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilisers 
Rank last year: 25

BJP leader Mansukh Mandaviya (Express Photo)

Why

Mansukh Mandaviya took over the Health Ministry when the government was being criticised for its handling of the Covid pandemic. But under him, India vaccinated a record number of people, created a vaccine surplus and pushed for indigenous manufacturing of vaccines and pharmaceutical ingredients.

Power Punch

He ensured that the Covid-19 vaccination was successful, with over 220 crore doses administered so far. The ministry, under him, prevented surges through timely action during the third Omicron variant-driven wave in November 2021. He is pushing the government’s millet mission, saying the FSSAI will soon formulate guidelines for schools, hospitals and government canteens to incorporate millets as nutritional options in the menu.

What Next

His ministry is focussing on other flagship programmes with a big push towards digital health, including creating ABHA cards to digitise health records of citizens.

By the way

Even before the millet mission was declared, he set up a millets canteen at the ministry.

28) Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commernce & Industry; Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution; Textiles
Rank last year: 29

Piyush Goyal (Express Photo by Praveen Khanna)

Why

Piyush Goyal is part of a select group of Cabinet ministers responsible for more than two ministries. As a minister in the Modi government since 2014, he has traversed a broad spectrum of ministries, including energy, finance, railways and trade. It’s a testimony to his standing in the government as well as the ruling BJP.

Power Punch

Goyal has been at the centre of India’s free trade pact negotiations with various countries and has been credited for the successful sealing of the free trade agreements with the United Arab Emirates and Australia in recent months. As the leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha, he has emerged as a key troubleshooter for the Modi government.

What Next

He will be focussed on sealing free trade agreements with the European Union and the United Kingdom, as negotiations with both trade partners have had their challenges and are likely to go on for longer than initially anticipated. In the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, he is expected to play a key role in the government’s strategy in Parliament and BJP’s campaign plan.

By the way

A Hindi cinema buff, Goyal is a Dev Anand fan.

29) Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs (HUA)
Rank last year: 42

Hardeep Singh Puri (Express Photo by Amit Mehra)

Why

In the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Hardeep Singh Puri was among the ministers who were rushed to neighbouring countries to oversee the evacuation of Indians. As the war rolled on and uncertainty dominated the global oil markets, Puri was seen on the international stage, vociferously defending the right of Indian companies to buy Russian crude oil. Back home, under the HUA portfolio, he is responsible for some of the most high-profile projects, including the construction of the new Parliament.

Power Punch

Facing criticism from the West, Puri has reiterated that India will buy oil from wherever it is able to get it cheaper, and, in the process, influence the market.

What Next

While energy security remains at the top of his to-do list, his pushing the Central Vista is key in a pre-election year. His diplomatic experience helps him connect with a wide range of influential newsmakers and apprise them of the Government’s policy imperatives.

By the way

Puri often listens to classic rock music while working in his Nirman Bhawan office.

30) Sonia Gandhi, Congress leader
Rank last year: 27

Sonia Gandhi (Express Photo by Prem Nath Pandey)

Why

After handing over the Congress presidency to Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi has stepped back from the public eye. But as chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, she continues to command respect of leaders across generations in the political spectrum. She is the most influential leader in the Opposition space and still has the last word in the grand old party in which the family is supreme. The UPA chairperson enjoys an excellent relationship with almost all Opposition leaders and will play a crucial role in bridging divisions in the Opposition camp ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Power Punch

The huge attention that Gandhi drew with her one passing remark about her innings having ended with the Bharat Jodo Yatra shows that her every word and move still matter.

What Next

Gandhi is said to be keen to walk into the sunset. Will that mean not contesting again from Rae Bareli? Will she bid adieu to electoral politics or contest one last time? It is a keenly-awaited decision.

By the way

Known for her love of handloom saris, Sonia Gandhi rarely wears lightweight fabrics such as chanderis, maheshwaris kotas or chiffons

31) Uday Kotak, Managing Director and CEO, Kotak Mahindra Bank
Rank last year: 28

Uday Kotak (Express Photo)

Why

The country’s wealthiest banker, Uday Kotak launched Kotak Mahindra Finance in 1985, which became the first non-banking financial company in the country to be converted into a commercial bank — Kotak Mahindra Bank in 2003. As per Forbes, Kotak’s net worth is USD 13.3 billion.

Power Punch

Under his leadership, Kotak Mahindra Bank has become the fourth-largest private sector lender in the country. The Kotak group has presence in various financial services such as investment banking, asset management, life insurance, general insurance and stock broking. Kotak’s leadership has made him the perfect problem-solver in a crisis, be it resolving issues of a failed IL&FS in previous years or sorting 55 per cent of the Rs 1 lakh crore debt of the complex infra financing institution.

What Next

Kotak is solidifying the bank’s presence in the micro-finance segment. It recently acquired 100 per cent of equity in Sonata Finance Pvt Ltd, an NBFC-MFI, for a cash consideration of Rs 537 crore.

By the way

An aspiring cricketer, Kotak had to give up his dream of pursuing the sport professionally after he got injured playing.

32) Bhupender Yadav, Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change; Labour & Employment
Rank last year: 20

Union Minister Bhupender Yadav (Express Photo by Bhupendra Yadav)

Why

Bhupender Yadav has been the chief negotiator on all international forums, including the strategically vital annual Conference of Parties for India, and has represented the interests of the global south by pushing Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), which allow for countries to keep climate goals in balance with their developmental needs and not on par with those of developed countries.

Power Punch

Yadav managed to negotiate with Namibia and South Africa in bringing 20 African cheetahs to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh, creating history.

What Next

He will be pushing to get the controversial Biological Diversity Amendment Bill 2021 passed in Parliament. As labour minister, he has been in the process of building consensus among states as well as Central and state trade unions in re-looking at labour laws. His major challenge will also be to ensure that goals under the National Clean Air Programme, in over 100 cities in the country, are met and maintained.

By the way

Every morning, he reads Patanjali’s yoga sutras.

33) Gautam Adani, Chairman and founder, Adani Group
Rank last year: 7

Indian billionaire Gautam Adani (Photo: Reuters)

Why

A first-generation entrepreneur, billionaire Gautam Adani has interests in defence and aerospace, energy, ports and logistics, gas, airports, mining and resources. The richest person in India until January 2023, with a net worth of over $120 billion, Adani, however, has seen his wealth erode after a critical report from the US-based Hindenburg Research, accusing the Adani Group of stock manipulation and accounting fraud.

Power Punch

Adani has been aggressively looking to expand into newer areas. He entered the cement sector by acquiring Ambuja Cements Ltd and ACC Ltd for $6.5 billion, making it India’s second-largest cement player. Last year, he also took control of television channel NDTV from the Roys.

What Next

Adani has been experiencing setbacks since the release of the US-based Hindenburg Research on January 24, 2023. The allegations led to fall in share prices of all his companies and he was forced to withdraw the Rs 20,000 crore fully-subscribed follow-on-public offer (FPO). The market cap of Adani Group companies has fallen by around $100 billion over the last few trading sessions. This development will cast a shadow on his various expansion plans.

By the way

He likes traditional vegetarian cuisine.

34) MK Stalin, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK chief 
Rank last year: 23

Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu MK Stalin

Why

MK Stalin has become Tamil Nadu’s most popular leader after his father M Karunanidhi’s passing and his party’s two subsequent electoral victories in 2019 and 2021. Before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Stalin’s national role will be crucial, alongside his performance as CM.

Power Punch

Stalin is setting himself apart from most regional party leaders by playing a prominent role in the national Opposition. He’s actively urging all regional parties to unite and confront the BJP in the 2024 elections. They have agreed that the prime ministerial candidate can be determined later.

What Next

The DMK’s focus will remain on retaining their vote base in the state. With strong alliances with the Congress, the Left, Dalits and minority parties from 2019, it will be crucial for Stalin to keep it together ahead of next year’s Lok Sabha polls. Stalin must also rein in some of his party members with a dubious track record, avoid corruption charges and keep up the goodwill that his government has earned until and beyond the next round of elections.

By the way

Stalin takes out time to watch movies, work out and walk in Adyar’s Theosophical Society campus.

35) K Chandrasekhar Rao, Telangana Chief Minister
Rank last year: 38

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao

Why

Even as K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) remains the most popular leader in Telangana, his government has launched flagship schemes such as Rythu Bandhu and Dalita Bandhu, and initiatives such as Mission Bhagiratha to supply drinking water to every household. He is one of the few political leaders to have taken a strong stand against the BJP and PM Narendra Modi.

Power Punch

After taking on the BJP, KCR has escalated his national ambitions. He is aiming to bring in an alternative alliance without the Congress or the BJP. He has renamed Telangana Rashtra Samiti as Bharat Rashtra Samiti to take the party to the national level, and has announced plans to contest Lok Sabha seats in neighbouring states such as Karnataka, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. He has also rallied the support of like-minded parties such as DMK, AAP, Left, JD (S) and JD (U).

What Next

He faces a litmus test in the forthcoming state elections, with the BJP aggressively expanding its footprint in the state. The Congress is also making a huge effort to regain lost ground.

By the way

KCR takes a keen interest in growing crops at his farmhouse in Erravalli village.

36) Anurag Thakur, Minister of Information & Broadcasting
Rank last year: 45

Information & Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur (Express Photo by Abhinav Saha)

Why

Anurag Thakur is the voice of the government, conveying important policy decisions and taking questions. Thakur’s other portfolio — Youth Affairs & Sports — gets the government a lot of traction among the youth, an important constituency to build upon going forward.

Power Punch

He quelled the crisis that arose when the country’s top wrestlers alleged sexual misconduct by the Wrestling Federation of India chief. When Israeli filmmaker Nadav Lapid lashed out at Vivek Agnihotri’s The Kashmir Files at the International Film Festival of India in Goa in November last year, with the minister sitting in the front row, Thakur kept his calm and let the crisis dissipate. As a party leader, he is often propped up to take on tough opponents like the Aam Aadmi Party.

What Next

In the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, BJP has shortlisted 160 constituencies as tough seats. Of these, Thakur has been given the responsibility of crucial constituencies such as Mumbai South Central and Kalyan. He will also have to regain his influence in his home state of Himachal Pradesh, where the party suffered a setback during the recent Assembly polls.

By the way

Thakur feeds peacocks at home every morning.

37) Smriti Irani, Minister of Women & Child Development, Minority Affairs
Rank last year: 44

Minister of Women & Child Development, Minority Affairs Smriti Irani (Express Photo by Praveen Khanna)

Why

Smriti Irani has been given the charge of the Minority Affairs Ministry at a time when the BJP has been wooing the Pasmanda Muslim vote bank across the country. This, in addition to one of BJP’s most important vote bases — women — makes both portfolios crucial. As the Woman and Child Development Minister, Irani has introduced several landmark legislations and policies including the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Bill 2021 and Poshan Abhiyaan 2.0.

Power Punch

Conversant in a number of languages, including English, Hindi, Gujarati, Bengali, Marathi and Punjabi, and as one of the few women ministers in Modi’s cabinet, she is not only one of the party’s most prominent election campaigners, but also its most visible spokespersons.

What Next

Irani is expected to bring in the much-awaited anti-trafficking Bill in Parliament soon. The draft Bill has been hailed by trafficking experts and human-rights activists as one of the most comprehensive bills to ever be introduced.

By the way

Her daughter Shanelle’s wedding reception was attended by a slew of Bollywood and television celebrities, including Shah Rukh Khan.

38) Siddaramaiah, Leader of Opposition in Karnataka
Rank last year: Not on list

Former Karnataka CM and Congress leader Siddaramaiah

Why

Siddaramaiah has stayed relevant in the state’s politics despite the Congress losing power in 2018. The former CM has been one of the most staunch opponents of the BJP’s polarisation politics in Karnataka. Despite being a first-generation politician from a farming family, he is the second chief minister to have completed five years in office — a rare feat in the state’s political history.

Power Punch

Taunted by the BJP with the name Siddaramulla Khan, the former CM responded by saying the taunt was a recognition of his secular credentials. “They (BJP) have rewarded my belief in secularism by attaching a Muslim name to my name,” Siddaramaiah said in December 2022. He has the support of the AHINDA vote base, including Dalits, Muslims and Kuruba — the largest community in the state — making him their preferred leader.

What Next

Siddaramaiah could be the CM of Karnataka for a second term if the Congress wins the 2023 state polls on account of his positioning as the foremost state leader of the party.

By the way

Siddaramaiah is an exponent of a local temple dance form called ‘Veera Kunitha’. He dances on occasions at temple festivals in his village in Mysuru.

39) Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister 
Rank last year: Not on list

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis (Express Photo by Ganesh Shirshekar)

Why

Devendra Fadnavis has led the coalition government of BJP-Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) smoothly since June 2022. He has given a fresh impetus to mega infrastructure projects and has taken major policy decisions in core areas of agriculture, power and rural sector to bridge the regional imbalance and usher development in backward regions such as Marathwada and Vidarbha.

Power Punch

His role in accomplishing Operation Lotus successfully paved the way for the BJP-Shinde-faction coalition government in Maharashtra. As the Opposition leader in 2019, Fadnavis had embarked on exploiting the internal conflict within Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) constituents. He capitalised on the unrest among Shiv Sena members, whipping up Hindutva fervour to engineer a split in Uddhav Thackeray’s party, which helped pull down MVA.

What Next

The BMC elections in 2023 remain a major challenge. The BJP, along with the Shinde faction, has set an ambitious target to win 150 seats out of 227 in the BMC. Dislodging the three decades rule of Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav remains a task.

By the way

He loves driving for long hours.

40) Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister
Rank last year: 55

Why

Tejashwi, who became deputy CM for the second time last August, has emerged as the RJD’s undisputed leader and is beiing discussed as the next CM face. He has been crafting a pan-Indian image, regularly interacting with leaders like MK Stalin, K Chandrasekhar Rao, Akhilesh Yadav and Hemant Soren.

Tejashwi Prasad Yadav

Power Punch

While Nitish Kumar is accused of flaunting an ideology of convenience, Tejashwi hasn’t wavered from the RJD’s ideological position. Together with other Opposition parties, he is taking on the BJP for “misusing” Central agencies. Tejashwi, who can connect with his audiences as was seen during the recent Purnea rally, has added “A to Z” to “M-Y” to broaden his political base.

What Next

He is looking to make the RJD a stakeholder in national politics by winning seats in the 2024 polls. His second goal would be to become the undisputed leader of the Mahagathbandhan as he has his eyes set on the CM position in 2025.

By the way

Tejashwi and Rachel, his wife, are expecting their first baby soon.

41) Bhupesh Baghel, Chattisgarh Chief Minister
Rank last year: 35

Why

As the Congress chief for Chhattisgarh, Baghel, along with TS Singhdeo as Opposition leader, catapulted the party back to power after 15 years and handed the biggest defeat to the Modi-led BJP government in the state.

Chattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel

Power Punch

Baghel’s government procured a record 10 lakh metric tonnes (MLT) of paddy from farmers at a better price this year. His government has given a big push to climate resilient policies, a green economy and laid a template for sustainable livelihood schemes. He has empowered women self-help groups, which are turning cow dung to vermicompost and even selling forest produce through market linkages. These have won appreciation from even the Prime Minister.

What Next

This year’s Assembly Elections will be a litmus test for the Baghel government as critics saw the 2018 elections more as a loss for the BJP than a win for the Congress. The BJP is in talks to infuse new faces into the party, as it did for the Lok Sabha elections. Further, Modi and Amit Shah will campaign in the state with support from the RSS.

By the way

He plays Candy Crush on his phone while travelling.

42) Naveen Patnaik, Odisha Chief Minister
Rank last year: 33

Why

Entering politics after the death of his father and former CM Biju Patnaik in 1997, Naveen Patnaik formed the BJD and has steered it to success, ruling Odisha for the past 23 years. His cradle-to-grave schemes are attributed to the BJD’s electoral success. His focus on sports, especially Indian hockey, helped Odisha organise two successive World Cups.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik

Power Punch

The BJD president managed to withstand the Modi wave during the 2014 and 2019 general elections. Despite being at
the helm of power since March 2000, Patnaik beat anti-incumbency of four terms and returned to power in the 2019 Assembly elections by securing 113 of the 147 seats. As Odisha goes to Assembly and Lok Sabha polls simultaneously next year, Patnaik is eyeing a sixth straight term. Under his leadership, BJD has never lost an election.

What Next

Patnaik may face a challenge in picking his successor and the “problem of plenty” will also be a big headache for the BJD supremo while picking candidates for the forthcoming polls in 2024.

By the way

Patnaik is a history buff, a voracious reader and likes to watch shows on Netflix.

43) Pinarayi Vijayan, Kerala Chief Minister
Rank last year: 24

Why

Pinarayi Vijayan is heading the only Left-led government in India. Among all the Opposition chief ministers in the country, Vijayan is one of the most visible and consistent critics of the BJP and the RSS. He is the only CM in the history of Kerala to retain power for a second consecutive term.

Pinarayi Vijayan

Power Punch

As the only CM in the party, Vijayan has gained an upper hand in CPI (M)’s national politics. He has made the party take his government’s administrative initiatives to the national level as an alternative to the neo-liberal policies of the BJP.

What Next

The onus of making the Left relevant in the country rests with Vijayan. Kerala looks like the only state where the Left can weather the BJP storm and Vijayan would face his next test in the Lok Sabha elections in 2024. His challenge is to retain the popularity of his previous regime, the image of a crisis manager and able administrator at a time the state is facing a severe financial crisis.

By the way

His Opposition leaders may have numerous complaints against him but they all agree that he can keep a secret. What is told to Vijayan stays with Vijayan.

44) Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena (UBT) president
Rank last year: 16

Why

Uddhav Thackeray suffered two big setbacks in the last six months — his having to resign as chief minister of Maharashtra and the split in the Shiv Sena. The Election Commission’s decision to divest the title ‘Shiv Sena’ and its symbol (the bow and arrow) proved disastrous for the party’s identity but Thackeray is determined to fight back.

Uddhav Thackeray

Power Punch

As the CM of Maharashtra, he ably tackled the Covid pandemic with the support of alliance partners — the Congress and the NCP. Despite ideological differences, Thackeray managed to keep the equation with the Congress and the NCP intact. By making the ECI a national battle, and not just Maharashtra’s, he elicited support from regional parties across the country.

What Next

Thackeray has to regain the lost confidence among the cadre. After losing the party’s original title and symbol, Thackeray’s real test will be to give the organisation a new identity. Retaining the hold over the BMC remains the foremost challenge this year.

By the way

Photography is his passion, which he pursues in his leisure.

45) Sunil Bharti Mittal, Bharati Enterprises Chairperson
Rank last year: 68

Why

The entry of Reliance Jio in India’s telecom space resulted in significant consolidation of the market, forcing many companies to either exit or merge. However, Bharti Airtel emerged largely unscathed.

Sunil Bharti Mittal

Power Punch

While Reliance Jio bought more 5G spectrum than Airtel, the latter became the first to roll out 5G services last October, the day when the next-generation technology was officially launched by PM Modi. Under Mittal, Airtel decided to opt for the non-standalone model of 5G implementation which experts believe could give the company an early edge as it is compatible with more devices than Jio’s stand-alone counterpart.

What Next

Mittal’s key challenge will be to continue launching 5G services in as many cities as possible, considering Jio has promised a countrywide availability by the end of this year. Also crucial will be the launch of OneWeb, Airtel’s broadband from space service, which has already been delayed by a few months.

By the way

Mittal loves flying and even took lessons when he was young.

46) CR Paatil, Gujarat BJP President and Lok Sabha MP
Rank last year: 53

Why

A close aide of PM Modi, CR Paatil, despite his non-Gujarati roots, has a strong presence in Gujarat. After his appointment as Gujarat BJP president in 2020, Paatil brought sweeping changes not only in Cabinet appointments but also in the distribution of party tickets.

CR Paatil

Power Punch

In the recent Gujarat Assembly elections of 2022, the party, under Paatil, replaced former CM Vijay Rupani, deputy CM Nitin Patel and other ministers and veteran leaders with fresh faces. The party still won with a record 156 of 182 seats. Paatil’s negotiations helped in the scrapping of the Par Tapi Narmada river-linking project and the deferring of the higher GST slab for the textile industry.

What Next

Parliamentary elections next year will be Paatil’s biggest challenge. While it is being said that Paatil is cut out for a bigger national role, it remains to be seen whether that will happen before or after the Lok Sabha elections.

By the way

Paatil added an extra ‘a’ to his last name due to numerology and switched to half-sleeve shirts from full-sleeved ones on the advice of an astrologer.

47) Jay Shah, BCCI secretary
Rank last year: 47

Why

It’s no secret that Indian cricket is run by its secretary Jay Shah and nothing moves without his approval in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Shah’s voice matters in the International Cricket Council (ICC), too. Son of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, he was instrumental in launching the Women’s Premier League in India. With its media rights going for Rs 951 crore, WPL, even before a ball was bowled, was easily the most sought after women’s cricket tournament in the world.

Jay Shah

Power Punch

Being the youngest Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief, he stuck to his stand that India won’t travel to Pakistan to play in the Asia Cup this year. Also, during his tenure as BCCI secretary, he decided to have pay parity for Indian women’s cricketers and now their match fees are equal to Indian team men players. With Shah calling the shots, Ahmedabad, and not Mumbai, is the new nerve centre of Indian cricket with the Narendra Modi stadium hosting most high-profile games.

What Next

Hosting the 2023 World Cup successfully in India will be high on his agenda. It also remains to be seen if he can organise bilateral India-Pakistan games, world cricket’s biggest draw.

By the way

His favourite web series is Special Ops and he loves paneer tikka.

48) Nita Ambani, Chairperson and founder, Reliance Foundation, co-owner of Mumbai Indians
Rank last year: 48

Why

From team owner to league owner, administrator to entrepreneur, she has been at the front and centre of the burgeoning Indian sports industry. India’s lone member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), she led the country’s successful bid to host the IOC’s Session, which will be hosted at the Reliance-owned Jio World Centre in Mumbai in October. Ambani has also forayed into sports broadcasting, with most major sports events — including the IPL and FIFA World Cup — being shown live on Jio platforms.

Nita Ambani

Power Punch

She is the only Indian to be a part of three commissions of the IOC — Olympic Education, since 2017, Culture and Olympic Heritage since 2020. She was included in the Digital Engagement and Marketing Communications panel last year.

What Next

The IOC Session in Mumbai this October, where India hopes to further push its case to host the 2036 Olympics.

By the way

According to her daughter Isha, her strongest identity is as a dancer. “For more than 50 years, she has danced every day. I have seen her dedicate time towards her craft,” Isha said.

49) Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Supreme Court judge
Rank last year: Not on list

Why

After he was appointed a Supreme Court judge in 2017, he went on to became the second senior-most judge of the court. As part of the Collegium since July 2022, he is the face of the SC taking on the government on the appointment of judges.

Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul

Power Punch

Just days after CJI Justice DY Chandrachud took office, the crucial contempt case against the government for delay in the appointment of judges was listed before a bench headed by Justice Kaul. The move showed that he was the trusted choice for the CJI — both studied together at St Stephen’s and Delhi University’s Campus Law Centre. The bench has questioned the Attorney General and criticised the Law Minister for his remarks on the collegium system of appointing judges.

What Next

Justice Kaul will continue to play a key role in appointing judges till he retires in December. He also has a bunch of crucial cases listed before him, which include the Centre’s decision to dilute Article 370 of the Constitution. Justice Kaul is also hearing cases to reform bail law.

By the way

A theatre enthusiast, Justice Kaul can often be spotted in the India Habitat Centre, Delhi, watching plays.

50) Shah Rukh Khan, Actor
Rank last year: 82

Why

After a prolonged lull, Shah Rukh Khan has made a spectacular comeback. Since its release on January 25, not only has the action-packed Pathaan, in which he plays the titular protagonist, resurrected him as a crowd-puller but has become one of the highest-grossing Hindi films (it earned over Rs 540 crore in the Indian market and over Rs 391 in overseas collections).

Shah Rukh Khan

Power Punch

Three decades since he entered showbiz and gained widespread popularity as a heartthrob, with Pathaan, Khan has now remodelled himself as an action hero. The audience’s validation of Pathaan reiterates Khan’s mass appeal as an actor who cuts across different sections and generations of viewers. This has special significance for the actor who went through a difficult phase when his son Aryan Khan was arrested in 2021 on charges of possessing drugs. He was later found not guilty.

What Next

The highly-anticipated Jawan, directed by Atlee Kumar, and Rajkumar Hirani’s Dunki — featuring Khan in lead roles — are scheduled to release this year.

By the way

Khan turned to cooking quite a lot during the lockdown and likes to cook Italian.

Since you are here, check out our previous IE100 lists:

👉🏽 IE100 2021: In 2021, well before the Hindenburg storm, Gautam Adani moved up to rank 10 on the list. Meanwhile, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval stood at rank 6.
👉🏽 IE100 2019: Reliance Industries CMD Mukesh Ambani moved up to rank 10 in 2019.
👉🏽 IE100 2018:Congress leader Sonia Gandhi made it to the top 10 in 2018.