The death of Ratan Tata, the Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86, marked a significant moment in Indian business history, as he was a pivotal figure, a “lighthouse”, as described by his aide and Goodfellows founder Shantanu Naidu, in transforming the Tata Group into a global powerhouse.
Tata, who had been hospitalised for age-related health issues, was widely respected, across factions, for his leadership, philanthropy, and commitment to ethical business practices. His tenure from 1991 to 2012 saw the Tata Group expand into various sectors, including steel, automobiles, and information technology, with notable acquisitions such as Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel.
Despite his immense wealth, Tata was known for his modest lifestyle and deep compassion for social causes, particularly in education, healthcare, and animal welfare, through the Tata Trusts, which he led.
However, his legacy is not without controversy; he faced criticism regarding his exploitive labour practices, political collusion, and the impact of some business decisions, such as the Tata Nano project, which was intended as an affordable vehicle but ultimately failed to meet sales expectations. Tata’s endeavours have been claimed to have led to deaths and loss of livelihoods for several tribal groups whose land he sought for his projects. By some, Tata’s exploits have been described as the “largest indigenous land grab since Columbus’ colonisation and genocide in the Americas. Tata has also been complicit in delivering military supplies for Israel’s genocide in Gaza. This is on top of Tata Group’s origins in colonial collusion, war profiteering, and opium trade.
This duality in his legacy, celebrated for his philanthropic efforts while critiqued for certain business practices, sets the stage for a nuanced discussion about his impact on Indian society and industry with certain groups criticising those who highlight his negatives upon his death. Meanwhile, the government of India has also been urged to confer the Bharat ‘Ratna’ upon Tata.
Jargon
- Chairman Emeritus: A title given to Ratan Tata after his retirement as chairman of Tata Sons in 2012, indicating his continued influence and advisory role within the Tata Group without being involved in day-to-day operations.
- Padma Vibhushan: India’s second-highest civilian award, which Ratan Tata received in 2008 for his exceptional service in the field of trade and industry.
- Philanthropy: The act of promoting the welfare of others, typically through the donation of money, resources, or time. Ratan Tata was known for his extensive philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Tata Trusts.
- Tata Trusts: A group of philanthropic organisations that hold a majority stake in Tata Sons, focusing on social initiatives in education, healthcare, and rural development, reflecting Ratan Tata’s commitment to societal betterment.
- Cyrus Mistry: Ratan Tata’s successor as chairman of Tata Sons, who was then ousted by Tata in 2016, leading to a significant corporate governance controversy within the Tata Group. His removal was declared illegal by the National Company Law Tribunal.
Viewpoints 💭
- The left views Ratan Tata’s legacy as a mixed bag, acknowledging his philanthropic contributions but criticising his business practices, particularly regarding labour rights and underpaid workers.
- Critics from the left argue that Tata’s involvement in projects like Tata Nano, which displaced communities, highlights a disregard for marginalised groups, including tribal communities.
- The left emphasises the need for corporate accountability, pointing out instances where Tata’s business decisions allegedly prioritised profits over people, such as in the case of political collusion and labour exploitation.
- Ratan Tata’s philanthropic efforts, while significant, are seen by the left as insufficient in addressing systemic issues like income inequality and workers’ rights within the Tata Group itself.
- The left calls for a more equitable distribution of wealth and resources, highlighting the disparity between Tata’s immense wealth and the conditions of workers in his factories.
- While the left criticises Ratan Tata for prioritising business interests over labour rights, the right lauds his ability to create jobs and drive economic growth through strategic acquisitions.
- The left emphasises the need for corporate accountability and equitable wealth distribution, whereas the right focuses on Tata’s philanthropic contributions as evidence of his commitment to social causes.
- Ratan Tata’s involvement in projects like Tata Nano is seen by the left as an example of neglecting marginalised communities, while the right views it as an innovative attempt to provide affordable transportation.
- The left argues that Tata’s philanthropic efforts do not sufficiently address systemic issues within his companies, while the right considers them a testament to his ethical leadership and compassion.
- The right highlights Tata’s role in enhancing India’s global stature through business expansion, while the left points to instances of political collusion and labor exploitation as areas needing reform.
- The right celebrates Ratan Tata as a visionary leader who transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse, significantly contributing to India’s economic growth and international stature.
- Tata’s philanthropic efforts, particularly through Tata Trusts, are highlighted as exemplary, with the right praising his commitment to education, healthcare, and animal welfare.
- The right views Tata’s business acumen and strategic acquisitions, such as Jaguar Land Rover and Corus Steel, as pivotal in establishing India’s presence in the global market.
- Ratan Tata’s leadership style, characterised by humility and ethical practices, is seen by the right as a model for corporate governance and responsible business conduct.
- The right argues that Tata’s contributions to infrastructure and urban development, particularly in South Mumbai, have played a crucial role in enhancing India’s economic and social fabric.
Prominent Voices 📣
- Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha): Acknowledged Tata’s lasting impact on business and philanthropy.
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- Mamata Banerjee (West Bengal Chief Minister): Recognised Tata as a public-spirited philanthropist and leader.
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- MK Stalin (Tamil Nadu Chief Minister): Called Tata a true titan of industry and a beacon of ethical business practices.
- Mallikarjun Kharge (Congress President): Highlighted Tata’s commitment to India’s inclusive growth and ethical leadership.
- Ashok Gehlot (Congress Leader): Described Tata as a rare personality and expressed condolences to his family.
- Droupadi Murmu (President of India): Acknowledged Tata as an icon who combined corporate growth with nation-building.
5 - Narendra Modi (Prime Minister of India): Praised Tata as a visionary leader whose contributions extended beyond business, marked by humility and a commitment to societal betterment.
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- Amit Shah (Union Home Minister): Praised Tata’s dedication to national development and his lasting impact on the country.
- Nitin Gadkari (Union Minister): Reflected on his personal relationship with Tata and the lessons learned from his humility and respect for all.
- Eknath Shinde (Chief Minister of Maharashtra): Expressed deep sorrow over Ratan Tata’s death, emphasising his inspirational impact and contributions to Maharashtra and India.
- Bhupendra Patel (Chief Minister of Gujarat): Recognised Tata as a visionary leader who transformed India’s business landscape.
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- Devendra Fadnavis (Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra): Highlighted Ratan Tata’s dual legacy as a successful industrialist and philanthropist who enhanced India’s global image. 11
- Gautam Adani (Chairman of Adani Group): Described Tata as a giant and visionary who significantly influenced India’s development.
- Mukesh Ambani (Chairman of Reliance Industries): Expressed admiration for Tata’s transformative impact on Indian industry and his philanthropic efforts. 5
- Anand Mahindra (Chairman of Mahindra Group): Expressed grief and acknowledged Tata’s role in India’s economic advancement. 5
Sources 📚
