North News
Chandigarh, October 10
Ratan Tata, who led the Tata Group from 1991 to 2012, leaves behind a legacy defined not only by towering business achievements but also by his commitment to prioritizing “India and Indians first.” Born on December 28, 1937, in Mumbai to a distinguished Parsi family, he was the great-grandson of Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group.
Tata graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University in 1962 and soon joined the family business. He assumed the role of chairman in 1991 during a challenging time for the group, which reported revenues of just $5.8 billion. Under his leadership, the company expanded its reach and diversified its interests, with revenues surging to over $100 billion by 2011-12, the news outlet India Today said.
Notable projects during his tenure included the launch of the Tata Indica in 1998, the first Indian hatchback with a diesel engine, and the Tata Nano in 2008, which aimed to be the world’s cheapest car, priced at Rs 1 lakh, to provide affordable mobility for the Indian middle class. The Nano project epitomized Tata’s vision for accessible transportation.
Ratan Naval Tata, the esteemed businessman and chair of Tata Trusts, which owns Tata Sons, passed away late Wednesday at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. Tata, who never married, is survived by his brother Jimmy Tata and two half-sisters from his mother’s side, as well as half-brother Noel Tata, who serves as the chair of Trent.
According to the Mint, Tata Sons chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran and Tata’s close friend Mehli Mistry were present at the hospital. Tata was reported to be in good health until last Friday when he experienced sinking spells but managed to rally. His condition appeared to improve by Sunday morning; however, it deteriorated past midnight, leading to his admission to the hospital, located approximately a 20-minute drive from his residence in Colaba.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu expressed their condolences following Tata’s passing, with Modi calling him an extraordinary human being who provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most esteemed business houses. Murmu stated that India has lost an icon who harmonized corporate growth with nation-building and ethics.
Throughout his career, Tata was pivotal in acquiring international companies such as Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel, establishing the Tata Group as a major player in sectors like steel, automobiles, telecommunications, and information technology. His commitment to philanthropy was evident in his leadership of the Tata Trusts, which focus on community development and social initiatives, particularly in education, healthcare, and rural development, the news outlet further highlighted.
Honored with numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan and the Knight Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Ratan Tata was widely respected for his business acumen and unwavering integrity.
“Mr. Tata’s commitment to philanthropy and societal development has profoundly impacted the lives of millions. His initiatives in education and healthcare have created a lasting legacy that will benefit future generations. Throughout all his endeavors, Mr. Tata exemplified genuine humility in every interaction,” said Tata Sons chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran in a statement.
