PM Modi Pays Tribute to Ratan Tata, Hailing His Legacy and Vision
New Delhi, November 9, 2024 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid a heartfelt tribute to Ratan Tata, the iconic industrialist who passed away on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86. In his tribute, PM Modi expressed that Ratan Tata’s absence is felt deeply not just across India, but around the world, as his legacy touched every segment of society.
“From bustling cities and towns to villages, his absence is deeply felt,” the Prime Minister wrote, adding that the loss is mourned by seasoned industrialists, budding entrepreneurs, professionals, environmentalists, and philanthropists alike. PM Modi emphasized that for India’s youth, Ratan Tata was a source of inspiration, a symbol of how dreams could be pursued with compassion, humility, and integrity.
Ratan Tata, who led the Tata Group to new heights during his tenure as chairman, was known for embodying the finest traditions of Indian enterprise. Under his leadership, the Tata Group gained respect and credibility worldwide, yet Tata himself remained humble, always wearing his monumental achievements lightly.
“For others, he represented the finest traditions of Indian enterprise and a steadfast commitment to the values of integrity, excellence, and service,” PM Modi said. “He led the Tata Group to new heights, always upholding honesty and credibility on the global stage.”
PM Modi also spoke about Tata’s mentorship of India’s startup ecosystem, noting that the late industrialist was known for his unwavering support for young entrepreneurs. “He understood the hopes and aspirations of young entrepreneurs and recognized their potential to shape India’s future,” said the Prime Minister. By investing in promising ventures, Tata helped empower a generation of innovators, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship that continues to influence India’s business landscape.
“In recent years, Ratan Tata became known for mentoring India’s startup ecosystem, investing in many promising ventures,” PM Modi added. “By backing their efforts, he empowered a generation of dreamers to take bold risks and push boundaries. This has gone a long way in creating a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.”
The Prime Minister also recalled the close working relationship he shared with Ratan Tata, especially in Gujarat, where Tata invested heavily in a number of projects. PM Modi highlighted one recent milestone, the inauguration of the Tata Aircraft Complex in Vadodara, Gujarat, which marked a key achievement for the ‘Make in India’ initiative in the aviation sector. The complex, where C-295 aircraft will be made in India, was a project that Ratan Tata had championed long before his passing.
“I had the privilege of knowing Ratan Tata very closely over the years. We worked together on several projects in Gujarat, including many that were very dear to him. Just a few weeks ago, I was in Vadodara with the President of Spain, Pedro Sanchez, for the inauguration of an aircraft complex where C-295 aircrafts would be made in India. It was Ratan Tata who started this work, and needless to say, his presence was greatly missed,” PM Modi reflected.
Ratan Tata’s legacy extends beyond his leadership of the Tata Group. His vision for India’s business and philanthropic sectors has had a lasting impact, and his commitment to excellence continues to inspire future generations of leaders.
In the wake of his passing, the Tata Trusts Board has appointed Noel Tata, Ratan Tata’s half-brother, as the new Chairperson, ensuring the continuation of his visionary leadership.
