SOURCE: AFI
Ratan Naval Tata, the chairman emeritus of Tata Sons and one of India’s most influential business leaders, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86 at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. His death marks the end of an era for India’s business world, but his legacy in leadership, philanthropy, and nation-building remains unparalleled.
Tata was not just a business tycoon; he was a visionary who transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse while maintaining its deep commitment to social responsibility. Under his leadership, the group expanded its footprint in industries as diverse as steel, automotive, information technology, and aerospace, all the while upholding the values of trust and ethical business practices. His contributions went far beyond business, leaving an indelible mark on India’s industrial landscape and society at large.
Among the many passions that defined Ratan Tata’s life, his love for aviation stood out. He was a trained pilot and a strong advocate for India’s aerospace sector. Under his guidance, Tata Group partnered with several major global aerospace companies, establishing joint ventures that integrated India into the global aerospace supply chain. In the last 10 to 15 years, the group’s aerospace ventures positioned India as a key player in this strategic industry.
His influence extended beyond the business aspects of aviation. Ratan Tata was deeply committed to the development of India’s indigenous aviation and defense sectors. One of the most remarkable and lesser-known stories about his contribution to the country’s defense industry involved the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas program in the early 1990s.
In 1991, the Indian government was considering canceling the LCA Tejas program, a move that could have derailed India’s dream of developing its own fighter jet. Ratan Tata, who was part of a high-level committee that included industry partners, played a crucial role in defending the program. His belief in the importance of indigenous defense capabilities was unwavering, and he passionately advocated for continuing the Tejas project.
One senior official recalls a defining moment: “Ratan Tata walked into my office and told me it was an outstanding programme. Even if the Indian government abandoned it, he said he was ready to take over and develop the aircraft himself. I was moved by his conviction.”
This gesture not only underscored Ratan Tata’s belief in India’s technological capabilities but also highlighted his readiness to back bold and ambitious projects for the nation’s future. His advocacy ensured that the program survived a critical phase, providing India with a fighter jet that is now a vital part of its defense forces.
Despite the passionate support from leaders like Ratan Tata, progress on the LCA Tejas program was slow due to bureaucratic delays and lack of funding. The program proposal to build two technology demonstrator aircraft, with an investment of Rs 2,188 crore, was sent for cabinet approval but was held up for more than a year due to financial constraints. Eventually, the program received the necessary support, thanks in part to individuals like Ratan Tata, who stood by it at a crucial time.