On Saturday, today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered renowned industrialist Ratan Tata, who passed away last month after a brief illness. PM Modi and Ratan Tata shared a long time relationship since Tata was welcomed by Modi then(Chief Minister of Gujarat), to open the Nano factory after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had created a fuss over so-called greenland in Singur and turned out the Tata from West Bengal. Ratan Tata had set up the Nano factory in Gujarat.
Earlier, during inauguration of an aircraft complex in Vadodara, PM Modi recalled the contributions of Ratan Tata and said, “Today he is dead but I am sure that had he been alive and around, he would have been the happiest person since it was his dream project. I am sure India will export aircrafts to the world,” added PM Modi. including the recent . “It was Shri Ratan Tata who started working on this,” Modi said, expressing how much Tata’s presence was missed on the occasion.
“The absence of Tata, a beloved figure across generations, is “deeply felt across every segment of society,” PM Narendra Modi noted, saying that “seasoned industrialists, budding entrepreneurs and hardworking professionals mourn his loss”, as do those “passionate about the environment and devoted to philanthropy”.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared an emotional tribute, reflecting on the business doyen’s extraordinary contributions to Indian industry, philanthropy, and the nation. “I had the privilege of knowing him very closely over the years.” Modi shared memories of their work together in Gujarat.
Tata represented “the finest traditions of Indian enterprise and a steadfast commitment to the values of integrity, excellence and service,” and under his leadership, the Tata Group became known worldwide for respect, honesty, and credibility. Despite these achievements, Modi said, Tata “wore his achievements lightly, with humility and kindness”. “For the youth, Shri Ratan Tata was an inspiration, a reminder that dreams are worth pursuing and that success can coexist with compassion as well as humility,” added Prime Minister.
Let’s take a glance at the salient features of the tribute paid by PM Modi to Ratan Tata:
Modi also praised Tata’s pivotal role in India’s startup ecosystem saying, “He understood the hopes and aspirations of young entrepreneurs and recognized the potential they had to shape India’s future.”
Tata’s investments in promising ventures empowered “a generation of dreamers to take bold risks and push boundaries.” This support, Modi added, “has gone a long way in creating a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, which I am confident will continue to positively impact India for decades to come.”
PM Modi mentioned Ratan Tata’s love for animals:
Tata’s influence, however, extended beyond business. “His greatness was not restricted to the boardroom or helping fellow humans. His compassion extended to all living beings,” Modi noted, referencing Tata’s well-known love for animals and his support for animal welfare efforts.
On Ratan Tata’s patriotism:
Tata’s patriotism shone brightest during crises, with Modi recalling his swift reopening of the Taj Hotel after the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai, which “was a rallying call to the nation—India stands united, refusing to yield to terrorism”.
On Swachh Bharat Mission:
Prime Minister Modi, recalled Ratan Tata’s contribution towards the Swachh Bharat Mission, “He was a vocal advocate of this mass movement, understanding that cleanliness, hygiene, and sanitation are vital for India’s progress.” Modi remembered Tata’s “heartfelt video message for the Swachh Bharat Mission’s tenth anniversary at the start of October,” calling it one of Tata’s final public appearances.
PM Modi also touched Ratan Tata’s contribution in the health sector, especially, cancer care. He said cancer was another cause close to Tata’s heart. Modi spoke of their joint inauguration of cancer hospitals in Assam, where Tata had shared his wish to “dedicate his final years to healthcare.”
Pm Modi described Tata’s vision of a society where “business can serve as a force for good, where every individual’s potential is valued, and where progress is measured in the well-being and happiness of all.” He said, Tata remains alive in the lives he touched and the dreams he nurtured. “Generations will be grateful to him for making India a better, kinder and more hopeful place,” added Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
