Tata Group Chairman Emeritus Ratan Tata was awarded an honorary D.Litt. by Maharashtra's second state cluster university, HSNC University. The gesture was an appreciation towards the businessman's contributions.
The university said Ratan Tatareflects the philosophy of development, education, and upliftment of all. The idea resonates with the vision of HSNC University. This is the first time HSNC conferred someone with an honorary degree.
The Governor of Maharashtra and the Chancellor of the university Bhagat Singh Koshyari awarded the degree to Tata at a special convocation ceremony on Saturday.
Koshyari in his convocation address said Tata is not just an industrialist or a corporate icon, he is a great human being who nurtures values of politeness, humanity, and ethics. "By accepting the honorary doctorate from HSNC University, Tata has honoured each one of us".
Ratan Tata in his acceptance speech said that the university has been constituted with a view of creating young people with the capability to lead our country in the coming future, with honesty, purpose, and responsibility. "I am grateful to receive the honorary degree from the university, it means so much to me".
The 84-year-old industrialist joined Tata Group in 1961. He served as chairman from 1990 to 2012 and from 2016 to 2017. Being one of the most significant philanthropists in the world, he donates 60-65% of his profits to charity. He was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan and the Padma Bhushan by the Indian government.