Dr. TRB Raja, Minister for Industries, Government of Tamil Nadu, graced Ashok Leyland’s 75 years celebration event. Here is what the dynamic minister from the OEM’s home state had to share on the occasion.
I would like to begin by extending my heartfelt congratulations to the Ashok Leyland family and the entire Hinduja family for their remarkable achievement.
75 years of dedication, hard work, perseverance, innovation, and much more have been instrumental in the company’s continued success. Achieving such a milestone is no small feat, and I must commend the Hinduja family for their unwavering commitment. Equally deserving of congratulations are the dedicated workers at Ashok Leyland who have contributed to this success.
As India celebrated its independence in 1948, Ashok Leyland embarked on its journey as Ashok Motors in Chennai. It is heartening to see that Ashok Leyland has remained loyal to Chennai, Tamil Nadu, continually investing in the state and placing immense trust in the local talent. I would like to express our gratitude to Ashok Leyland for this commitment.
Since its inception, Ashok Leyland has made significant strides both economically and in terms of its workforce. The company’s market capital now stands at around Rs. 55,000 Crores, employing over 10,000 people, many of whom are in Tamil Nadu. Ashok Leyland has also expanded its reach globally, making it a reputable world leader in various sectors. Notably, it is the second-largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles in India, the third-largest manufacturer of buses worldwide, and the tenth-largest manufacturer of trucks globally. These achievements make us immensely proud, especially as the company hails from India and, specifically, Tamil Nadu.
I had the privilege of witnessing the first Austin vehicle produced in Ennore, dating back to 1949. The beauty of that machine, still standing proudly, left me awestruck. Many of us have fond memories of the double-decker buses that used to ply the streets of Chennai. It would be wonderful to see such vintage beauties restored to the roads of Tamil Nadu, and I encourage the Ashok Leyland group to consider relaunching them in Chennai.
Ashok Leyland has come a long way, introducing innovative machines that have garnered attention. The advancements in fuel cell technology, LNG technology backed by CNG, and fully electric trucks are setting new standards in the commercial vehicle sector. These innovations have the potential to transform our nation, considering that India’s economy relies heavily on Ashok Leyland. A day without Ashok Leyland’s fleet would undoubtedly impact our economy significantly, underscoring the company’s importance.
I am delighted that Ashok Leyland is embracing environmentally friendly practices. Tamil Nadu prides itself on being the greenest state in India, and we encourage all efforts to promote sustainability within the state.
Ashok Leyland’s journey mirrors that of India’s growth and development. As a company with strong Tamil roots, it not only prospers but also gives back to society. The “all women Hosur plant” is a testament to this commitment, and I applaud the Leyland family for this initiative. It is heartening to note that nearly 50 percent of women in India’s workforce come from Tamil Nadu, reflecting our deep respect for women. The family atmosphere at Ashok Leyland shines through in how they operate.
The “Road to School” program, Ashok Leyland’s flagship CSR initiative, aims to make education a social equalizer by positively impacting children in government schools. This program promotes holistic development in children by addressing education, health, hygiene, and nutrition needs. It aligns with the “breakfast scheme” initiated by the honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, further highlighting Ashok Leyland’s commitment to societal progress.
Ashok Leyland has made significant investments in training and upskilling workers in core manufacturing sectors, resembling the “Naan Mudhalvan” scheme of the honourable Chief Minister. The company’s approach resonates with the principles of the Dravidian model of governance in Tamil Nadu, making it a badge of honor for the state.
I would also like to express my appreciation for the Hinduja family, which employs over 100,000 people worldwide in various sectors. Their success is a testament to the values they hold dear.
Ashok Leyland’s tagline, “Koi Manzil Door Nahin,” aligns perfectly with Tamil Nadu’s aspirations. We have come a long way in our journey and have strived tirelessly to reach where we are today.
It is an honour to have a company of Ashok Leyland’s stature in Tamil Nadu, and it is an even greater honour to witness the dedication and passion of its employees who are integral to the company’s growth and the nation’s progress. I salute each and every employee present at this momentous occasion.