J. R. D. Tata

Sri J.R.D. Tata was born to Indian parents in Paris, France, and was inspired by aviation pioneer Louis Bleriot.

In 1929 Tata got the first pilot licence in India, and became known as the father of Indian civil aviation.

He founded India's first commercial airlines, Tata Airlines, in 1932, which in 1946 became Air India.

For decades J.R.D. Tata directed the Tata Group of companies, with major interests in many industries in India, including steel, engeneering and electrical companies. He was famous for succeeding in business while maintaining high ethical standards - refusing to bribe politicians or use the black market.

He was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1992.

External Links

• J.R.D. Tata's Career (http://www.newindiadigest.com/lala.htm)