Who: Industrialist/ Chairman, Managing Director, Reliance India Limited
Where: India
Why: It was this year that Mukesh Ambani gave the country Jio—a network that increased competition manifold in the telecommunications industry with its introduction of free internet and call services for customers. The venture did come under scrutiny, time and again for disrupted signals, as well as, being an aide in Modi’s demonetization scheme, as well.
41. Vijender Singh
Who: Indian Boxing Champion
Where: India
Why: After eyeing the finals against international boxing champion, Francis Cheka, who remained one of the most terrifying and unbeaten boxers, Vijender refused to bow down to threats given to him by the opponent and earlier this month, actually defeated Cheka in a tremendous win.
42. Manohar Parrikar
Who: Defence Minister of India
Where: India
Why: He successfully and single-handedly executed the surgical strike against Pakistan in a one-of-a-kind move against the enemy at the border. Yes, he drew flak and praise alike for his move; but caused enough of a stir for the enemies—both within and without—to sit up and take note.
43. Satya Nadella
Who: CEO, Microsoft
Where: United States
Why: Nadella became a favourite for the international press ever since he took over as CEO at Microsoft; not just because of the fact that he was an Indian at the head of an international brand; but also—and mostly—because with his arrival, Microsoft began to see a steady rise in its development. This year, Nadella once again stole the show when he announced Microsoft’s takeover of the professional social network, LinkedIn for $26.2 billion, thereby increasing Microsoft’s stock to a whole new level.