New Delhi: CNN-News18 has announced the return of the 14th edition of its prestigious flagship awards, Indian of the Year (IOTY). Recognized as India’s most credible and anticipated news television awards, IOTY honors the achievements of extraordinary Indians who have made a significant impact on the world. Previous winners include icons such as Shah Rukh Khan, Neeraj Chopra, and Virat Kohli.
The 2024 edition of Indian of the Year will celebrate individuals in seven categories: Entertainment, Sports, Rising Sports Star, Youth Icon, Business, Climate Warrior, and Social Change. Each category features five nominees whose contributions in the past year have had a profound influence, inspiring future generations.
Notable nominees in the Sports category include Olympic medalists Manu Bhaker and Swapnil Kusale, hockey star PR Sreejesh, and cricketers Jasprit Bumrah and Smriti Mandhana. The Rising Sports Star category highlights talents like Aman Sehrawat, D Gukesh, Abhishek Sharma, Shafali Verma, and Sarabjot Singh.
In Entertainment, the star-studded lineup includes Shraddha Kapoor, Vijay Sethupathi, Pankaj Tripathi, Fahadh Faasil, and the Laapata Ladies team. The Youth Icon category features rising stars such as Vicky Kaushal, Janhvi Kapoor, Nikhil Kamath, Nancy Tyagi, and Jaya Kishori. In the Business category, the nominees are Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal, Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal, Bajaj Auto MD Rajiv Bajaj, Team HAL, and Apollo Hospitals JMD Dr. Sangita Reddy.
The Climate Warrior category includes champions like UNICEF India’s Youth Advocate Vinisha Umashankar, Climate Change Activist Hina Saifi, Sustainability Activist Soumya Ranjan Biswal, Environmentalist Chami Murmu, and Entrepreneur Kriti Tula. The Social Change category recognizes individuals like the Women in Cinema Collective, Social Activists Tatwashil Kamble & Ashok Tangade, Singer and Philanthropist Palak Muchhal, and changemakers Adhik Kadam and Laljibhai Prajapati.
The esteemed jury for this edition includes renowned environmental activist Afroze Shah, Former Solicitor General of India Harish Salve, and Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India Indu Malhotra.
Smriti Mehra, CEO – English & Business News, Network18, said, “CNN-News18 Indian of the Year is a marquee recognition that resonates deeply with audiences across the country. Its immense popularity stems from a legacy of celebrating excellence, making it a trusted platform that not only inspires viewers but also delivers unmatched value to brands that associate with it.”
Zakka Jacob, Managing Editor, CNN-News18, added, “Built on the success of its past blockbuster editions, Indian of the Year has cemented its place as India’s premier recognition platform. With a history of honoring icons who define the nation’s spirit, this edition promises to elevate the legacy, showcasing stories that continue to inspire and unite.”
The voting process will combine both public voting and jury evaluation. 50% of the decision-making power will be given to the audience, while the remaining 50% will be determined by the jury, ensuring a balanced decision between the public’s voice and expert opinions.
RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group is the Presenting Partner, and Reliance Industries is the Associate Partner for this edition of CNN-News18 Indian of the Year.
To cast your vote for your favorite nominee, visit www.indianoftheyear.com.
