Deepinder Goyal, the founder of Eternal Ltd., has been recognized as the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 during the 27th edition of the awards ceremony held in Mumbai. A jury consisting of 11 members selected him based on his substantial influence on India’s consumption patterns through his ventures in the consumer technology sector and for establishing lasting value in his businesses. The organizers highlighted Goyal’s emphasis on innovation, efficient operations, and strategic long-term vision.

Impact on Employment and Entrepreneurship

The jury commended Goyal for creating numerous job opportunities for young people and gig workers, thereby bolstering a broader entrepreneurial ecosystem within the country. Following this accolade, Goyal will represent India at the upcoming EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year Award, slated for June 2025 in Monte Carlo. The ceremony featured Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal as the Chief Guest, who presented awards to Goyal, Uday Kotak, and the respective category winners.

Special Jury Recognition

Uday Kotak, the Chairman of GIFT City and a prominent banker, received the Special Jury Award for his extensive contributions to the banking and financial services sector in India, as well as his enduring influence on entrepreneurs.

Winners from Diverse Categories

The awards recognized notable figures across eight categories. Abhishek Lodha of Lodha Group won in the Energy, Real Estate and Infrastructure category. In the Life Sciences and Healthcare sector, Ajay Bhardwaj of Anthem Biosciences was honored. Gopal Vittal from Bharti Airtel received the award for Entrepreneurial CEO, while Jasbir Singh from Amber Enterprises was acknowledged in Manufacturing. Karan Bhagat of 360 One WAM won the Services category, and the Start-up recognition went to Pranav Goel and Uttam Digga from Porter. Sunil Vachani from Dixon Technologies was recognized for Business Transformation, with Vir S Advani from Blue Star winning in Consumer Products and Retail.

Economic Contributions of Awardees

The organizers noted that the winners collectively report nearly INR 4 lakh crore in revenue and have a total market capitalization exceeding INR 22 lakh crore. Their businesses provide employment to approximately 2.8 lakh individuals.

Ministerial Remarks on Economic Growth

During his address at the event, Piyush Goyal remarked on India’s entrepreneurial spirit, asserting it is pivotal to the nation’s growth narrative. He noted that real GDP growth had reached 8.2% in the second quarter of FY26, while inflation is decreasing, foreign exchange reserves have risen to $725 billion, and non-performing assets in the banking sector are at historic lows. He also highlighted that India attracted $80 billion in foreign direct investment during FY25.

Reflections from EY Leaders

Rajiv Memani, Chairman and CEO of EY India, stated that the awardees exemplify the robust nature of Indian entrepreneurship, showcasing the significant impact of reforms and global integration in creating new opportunities. Farokh Balsara, Partner and EOY India Program Leader, emphasized that the winner cohort illustrates the scale and diversity of businesses evolving in India. Led by Sajjan Jindal from JSW Group, the jury included influential industry leaders such as Dilip Shanghvi, Harsh Mariwala, and Sanjeev Bikhchandani, among others.

International Context of the Award

The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Award is a prestigious global event held in over 60 countries, recognizing entrepreneurs who play pivotal roles in developing and leading successful businesses.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share