JRD Tata

Bharat Ratna Jehangir Tata-integrity,hard work,entrepreneurship,daring,innovation,compassion,team work and universality-qualities India needs desperately today! Born of a mixed parentage-French mother and Indian father,JRD represented the finest in both cultures. He was born at the turn of the 20th century when industrialization was the buzz word. The Tata's were already an established presence in India. Steel,textiles and construction were their key strengths. Imbued with patriotism at an early age,JRD realised that without a strong native Industry, India would not be able to be truly independent. Without much formal education JRD joined the family business as an apprentice in Jamshedpur,where Tata Steel is located. After his father's demise JRD took over the reigns of Tata group.He set out to achieve his vision of making India a self-reliant and prosperous nation. Under his dynamic leadership the Tata Group made huge investments in core areas like steel,power,aviation,transportation,textiles,cement and education. Lacking formal education JRD was a great leader and motivator. He had the innate capacity to draw out the best in a person. Simple,unassuming,at ease with the common worker and a team player, he rapidly made the Tata's the leading group in India!
His motto was creation of wealth by honest means!
JRD was very unhappy at the turn of events after Independence-corruption,bureaucratic controls,state interference,political patronage and inefficiency. He was always at odds with the Prime Minister because of his uncompromising nature,though he shared a warm relationship with Sardar Patel,a man very much like him.
JRD was a sad man when he died in Switzerland. His legacy continues to inspire the Tata group who are the best employers in India.