CNMS Urges President to Confer Bharat Ratna Posthumously on Ratan Tata
New Delhi, September 26, 2026: The Centre for NaMo Studies (CNMS) has urged President of India Droupadi Murmu to confer the Bharat Ratna posthumously on veteran industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Naval Tata, citing his contributions to industry, philanthropy, social development and nation-building.
In a statement, CNMS Chairman Prof. Jasim Mohammad described Ratan Tata as a symbol of ethical leadership, humility and compassion. He said Tata’s work through the Tata Group and Tata Trusts had made a lasting impact on millions of people.
“Shri Ratan Tata was a visionary industrialist and a guiding light of ethical leadership, humility and compassion,” Prof. Mohammad said, according to the statement. “Conferring the Bharat Ratna posthumously would be a fitting tribute to his contributions to India and the world.”
CNMS said Tata’s legacy extended beyond his achievements in the corporate sector. During his tenure, the Tata Group expanded internationally, while philanthropic initiatives associated with the Tata Trusts continued to support areas including education, healthcare and community development.
Ratan Naval Tata was born on December 28, 1937, and died on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86. The Tata Group records that he became chairman of Tata Sons in 1991 and later served as Chairman Emeritus. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour, in 2008. �
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The Tata Group has also documented his role in the expansion and globalisation of the group, including major international acquisitions, as well as his continued involvement in philanthropic initiatives in healthcare, education and other areas. �
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Dr Divya Tanwar, also quoted in the CNMS statement, said that a posthumous Bharat Ratna would recognise the values associated with Tata’s public life, including integrity, responsible enterprise, philanthropy and social development.
The demand by CNMS comes as a proposal for national recognition of the late industrialist. The Bharat Ratna is India's highest civilian award, and the request does not itself constitute an award or government decision.
