Ratan Tata and PM Modi: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership and Lasting Bond
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the death of Ratan Tata, describing him as a visionary business leader and an extraordinary human being. The bond between PM Modi and Ratan Tata was profound, originating from the time when Modi served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Their relationship was cemented further in 2008, during a period of significant upheaval for the Tata Group.
In 2008, massive political protests in West Bengal compelled the Tata Group to relocate their ambitious Nano project. This was a tumultuous time for Ratan Tata, who needed a swift and effective solution to keep the project alive.
It was during this crisis that Modi, then the Chief Minister of Gujarat, extended a lifeline. In an old interview, Ratan Tata reflected on Modi’s genuine commitment to making Gujarat a prosperous and business-friendly state. Modi’s proactive approach during this period left a lasting impression on Tata.
Years later, during an interview with CNBC-TV18 in 2017, Ratan Tata reminisced about how PM Modi efficiently found solutions for the Tata Group when they were “looking for a home.” When asked about his views on Narendra Modi, Tata shared a heartfelt recollection. He explained, “First of all, let me just say I’ve known Mr. Modi when he was the chief minister of Gujarat.
I turned to him when we had to change factories from Singur in West Bengal to Gujarat. So I’ve seen him and will never forget the way he found solutions for a company that was looking for a home.”
Ratan Tata recounted his 2008 meeting with Modi, where the Gujarat Chief Minister made an extraordinary promise. Modi assured Tata that he would provide the necessary land in Gujarat within three days. Reflecting on this promise, Tata said, “He invited me to move the factory to Gujarat.
And I said, we’d come if we had a home. And he said, I’ll get you the land you want in three days. And then he delivered that on the third morning. He said, Ratanji, here’s the land that I promised. And that just doesn’t happen in India.”
This anecdote underscores Modi’s dedication and efficiency, qualities that Ratan Tata greatly admired. Tata’s optimism about Modi’s leadership was evident. He expressed confidence in Modi’s vision for a new India, stating, “So Mr. Modi, as Prime Minister now, is offering India, the Indian people, a new India.
I think we need to give him that opportunity to offer that new India. He’s able and capable and innovative enough to look at India afresh. And I, for one, am optimistic that with his leadership, India will be that new India that he has promised.”
Following Ratan Tata’s demise on October 9, PM Modi took to social media platform X to pay rich tributes. In a series of heartfelt posts, he honored Tata’s legacy, describing him as a visionary leader, a compassionate soul, and an extraordinary human being. Modi highlighted Tata’s stable leadership of one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses and his contributions beyond the corporate world.
“Shri Ratan Tata Ji was a visionary business leader, a compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being. He provided stable leadership to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious business houses. At the same time, his contribution went far beyond the boardroom. He endeared himself to several people thanks to his humility, kindness and an unwavering commitment to making our society better,” PM Modi wrote.
PM Modi also emphasized Tata’s passion for dreaming big and giving back to society. Tata championed numerous causes, including education, healthcare, sanitation, and animal welfare. Modi reflected on their frequent interactions, which began during his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister and continued when he moved to Delhi. “He was at the forefront of championing causes like education, healthcare, sanitation, animal welfare to name a few.
My mind is filled with countless interactions with Shri Ratan Tata Ji. I would meet him frequently in Gujarat when I was the CM. We would exchange views on diverse issues. I found his perspectives very enriching. These interactions continued when I came to Delhi. Extremely pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family, friends and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti,” he said.
In these tributes, PM Modi encapsulated the essence of Ratan Tata’s legacy: a blend of visionary leadership, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to societal betterment. The deep bond they shared was evident, reflecting a mutual respect and admiration that transcended professional collaboration.
The relocation of the Nano project to Gujarat remains a testament to their dynamic partnership, showcasing how effective leadership and mutual trust can navigate even the most challenging circumstances.