Team News Riveting
Jamshedpur, August 27
Tata Steel today celebrated the 164rd birth anniversary of Sir Dorabji Tata remembering the icon while paying homage and launching book on his life and times to inspire next generations of leaders.
Sir Dorabji Tata was the first Chairman of Tata Steel, who infused the Company with standards in corporate governance that were way ahead of its time. He introduced first-ever initiatives like 8-hour day work, maternity leave, provident fund, accident compensation, free medical aid and many more welfare measures, long before they became legal obligations.
In Jamshedpur, the day’s celebrations started with homage ceremony at Sir Dorabji Tata Park. Chankaya Chaudhary, Vice President Corporate Services, Tata Steel graced the occasion as Chief Guest along with Dr T Mukherjee, former Deputy Managing Director (Steel), Tata Steel as Special Guest and Sanjeev Choudhary, President, Tata Workers’ Union as Guest of Honour. Also present during the occasion were senior officials of Tata Steel and other group companies, members of the Union and eminent citizens of Jamshedpur.
A comic book based on the life and times of Sir Dorabji Tata, written by Prabha Nair and Tripti Naiwal, published by Amar Chitra Katha Pvt. Ltd. was also launched to mark the occasion. The book was launched by Chanakya Chaudhary, T Mukherjee, Sanjeev Choudhary, Daisy Irani, and Shubhra Mukherjee. The book will be distributed to students of various schools so as to inspire the youths. Students from Masti Ki Pathshala and bridge schools run by Tata Steel Foundation also took park in today’s event along with sports trainees of the Roller Scating Training Centre, Football Training Centre and Handball Training centre.
During his speech, Chanakya Chaudhary said, “Sir Dorabji’s commitment to social welfare, industrial development and nation-building is a testament to his remarkable character. His foresight and dedication enabled future generations in the systematic and scientific advancement positioning India as a prominent player in the global economy. His legacy extends beyond the realm of industry. His deep concern for the welfare of workers, their families, and the communities laid the foundation for our enduring commitment in the field of corporate social responsibility.” While addressing the gathering, T Mukherjee, former Deputy Managing Director (Steel), Tata Steel touched upon the importance of Indian Institute of Science, which was established by Sir Dorab ji Tata and played a pivotal role in the growth of science and industry in the country. Sanjeev Choudhary, President, Tata Workers’ Union also mentioned how Sir Dorab ji Tata understood the plight of the labours and help nurture the Union.
Sir Dorabji Tata’s passion for sports was evident as he interwove sports with the company’s ethos, following his father’s vision to reserve areas for sports and parks. His desire to see India participate in the Olympics led to the sponsorship of athletes for the Antwerp Olympic Games in 1920. His efforts resulted in securing a place for India at the Paris Olympics in 1924 and his appointment to the International Olympic Committee. He was first President of Indian Olympic Association.
Tata Steel continues his legacy by considering sports a catalyst for nation-building. With academies established for various disciplines like football, archery, athletics, hockey and sport climbing, we nurture sporting talent across India. The legacy of Sir Dorabji Tata will continue to inspire generations of businessmen and entrepreneurs in the future.
