JRD Tata Unknown Facts

Tata Group, which began in 1868, has had six chairmen until now.  Among the six men who served this renowned business group, there was one exceptional man who served as its chairman for 50 whole years and took the Company to great heights.  Yes, the man we are talking about is none other than Jehangir Ratanji Dadabhoy Tata, or JRD Tata.  

From starting India’s first ever international airline, to giving the Country one of its largest cosmetic brands (Lakmé,) this gentleman has done it all.  JRD Tata also strived his best to improve India’s economy on the whole. Here are some unknown facts about this exemplary industrialist. 

Unknown facts about JRD Tata

1) JRD Tata was born on 29th July, 1904 in Paris and had a French citizenship for a long time.  He even served as a part of the French Army for one year. 

2) In 1925, he entered the Tata Group as an unpaid apprentice. 

3) JRD Tata was always keen on flying and became India’s first licensed pilot in 1929.  

4) In 1929, JRD Tata also renounced his French citizenship and took up Indian citizenship. 

5) In 1934, JRD Tata was elected as the Chairman of the Tata Group.  He was only 30 years when he was elected for this position, making him the youngest person to head the Group. 

6) When he was appointed as the Chairman, the Tata Group had 14 companies under it.  JRD Tata expanded it to an empire of 95 companies in a span of 50 years. Some of the most renowned companies established by JRD Tata during his tenure as the Chairman include Tata Motors (1945,) Lakmé (1952,) Tata Tea Limited (1964,) Tata Consultancy Services (1968) and Titan Industries Limited (1987.) 

7) JRD Tata was the person who launched Air India International, India’s first ever international airline.  For this reason, he is also known as the ‘father of Indian aviation.’ 

8) JRD Tata was the man who initiated the ‘employee welfare schemes’ in India.  He is responsible for the 8 hour work day, free medical aid and the employee provident fund.  These principles were later adopted by the Indian Government. 

9) It is no surprise this man received several awards during his lifetime.  His awards include the Padma Vibhushan (1957) and the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award (1992.)

10) When JRD Tata died in November 1993, the Indian Parliament was adjourned in his honour. 

Which of these facts about JRD Tata surprised you the most?  Comment below and let us know.