It is with profound grief that we mourn the passing of Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a revered leader, philanthropist, and cherished member of Population Foundation of India’s Governing Board since 1994. His three decades of unwavering commitment to Population Foundation of India reflected his deep belief in the power of societal change. His wise counsel, leadership, and vision have shaped and strengthened our mission to promote population, gender and youth initiatives that create lasting impact.
Mr. Tata was an enduring symbol of philanthropy and social responsibility in India. Through Tata Trusts, he spearheaded a wide range of philanthropic initiatives, directing about 65 per cent of Tata Sons’ profits to charitable causes in sectors like healthcare, education, and rural development. He was not only an iconic industrialist but also a humanitarian whose compassion and generosity set the gold standard for corporate social responsibility.
“Ratan Tata’s passion for creating a better world was unparalleled. His generosity and vision for an inclusive and just society have inspired us all. He lived by the values of humility, dignity, compassion, and selfless service,” said Poonam Muttreja, Executive Director of Population Foundation of India. “We will continue to honor his legacy by working towards the values he championed so passionately.”
At Population Foundation of India’s 50th-anniversary celebration in 2020 in New Delhi, Mr. Tata laid out his vision for India’s youth, emphasizing their role as drivers of the nation’s future. In his address, he called for collective action among citizens, the government, and the private sector to address pressing issues like education, employment, health, and gender equality. “If we are to succeed in creating a nation that we want to see, it needs to be a nation of equal opportunity… a country where working together spells strength and goodwill,” he remarked.
“Mr Ratan Tata’s life embodied entrepreneurial excellence that spurred India’s industrial growth but also epitomised a values-based commitment to social causes like population health, especially of women and adolescent girls,” said Dr Srinath Reddy, chairperson of Population Foundation of India’s Governing Board. “Population Foundation of India was blessed by his presence in its governing body and will continue to draw strength from the immense wisdom he gifted it.”
Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His presence and wise counsel will be greatly missed, but his contributions will forever be embedded in the social fabric of India. Bringing his vision to life through concerted public action would be the greatest tribute to his legacy.
