The Maharashtra cabinet passed a resolution on Thursday urging the central government to confer the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, on the late industrialist Ratan Tata.
Chaired by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the cabinet meeting paid homage to Tata, who passed away in a Mumbai hospital on Wednesday night. A motion of condolence was also adopted during the meeting, according to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office.
The cabinet highlighted Tata’s contributions to entrepreneurship, stating that such efforts are vital for societal growth and can lead India toward progress and development.
“It also requires love for the country and honest feelings for societal upliftment. We have lost a visionary leader committed to the nation and society. Tata's role in the industrial sector and his dedication to uplifting society were unparalleled,” the resolution read.
The cabinet noted that Tata had received the Padma Vibhushan, the country’s second-highest civilian honour, and praised his moral integrity and disciplined approach to business.
The resolution commended Tata for his resilience following the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks and for his substantial contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a ₹1,500 crore donation to the Prime Minister's Relief Fund and opening Tata Group hotels to accommodate COVID patients.
"The Taj Mahal Hotel, operated by a Tata Group company, was targeted during the November 26 attacks," the resolution stated.
In closing, the cabinet expressed its condolences on behalf of the people of Maharashtra, stating, “We stand with the Tata Group in this moment of grief.”
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