The leaders’ vision should be to promote industries, not ridicule industrialists.
Before starting the discussion, let me narrate a historical anecdote. History is witness to the fact that the Bajaj and the Birla families have made remarkable contributions in the freedom struggle. Ramnath Goenka once asked Mahatma Gandhi, “Bapu, do you not perceive that these two industrialists, Bajaj and Birla, are exploiting you?” Bapu responded, “No, I do not believe so. It seems to me that I am the one exploiting them.” In the important battle for freedom, money is spent on facilitating travel, accommodation and food for the workers. Notably, these two families are actively contributing financially to make it possible.
I am recalling this episode so that the younger generation understands the significant contributions made by industrialists during the freedom movement. Indeed, their role was pivotal and it is also important to recognise that industrialists continued to play a significant role in India’s progress after independence. However, it astonishes me to see certain politicians targeting industrial conglomerates. Presently, it has become a fashion to attack the Ambani and Adani groups as if they have indulged in massive corruption. I am not sure about the authenticity of these allegations, but even if there is some truth to them, it should be determined within the confines of the courtroom rather than the political arena.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has consistently claimed that Ambani and Adani groups have close ties with the Prime Minister, suggesting that closeness to the government influences their growth. It is inappropriate for Rahul Gandhi to make such statements. Dhirubhai Ambani had been close to both Indira Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, and they have mutually supported each other. It’s a common occurrence for industrialists to support various political parties based on their interests and capabilities. This trend isn’t new to India. In Japan, industrialists have a decisive role in selecting the Prime Minister, while in countries like America and South Korea, they also play a role in politics. There is nothing new about it. Back home, we hear allegations that the government favours industrialists like Ambani and Adani as they hail from Gujarat. However, I personally dismiss such allegations.
But now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has raised a new question as to why Rahul Gandhi has suddenly gone silent on Ambani-Adani these days? Did he receive tempo-loads of money, he asked. The Prime Minister mentioning the names of these industrialists in this manner surprised many, even prompting me to write on this topic. Rahul Gandhi and his Congress party wasted no time in responding to the PM’s comments. However, the fundamental question remains: why do we drag our industrialists into the political slugfest? Why are efforts being made to brand them as corrupt? Is it a crime to be an industrialist and contribute to the development of our nation? Why do we forget that in this era of competition, establishing, running and expanding an industry while keeping the team united is no easy feat? Mukesh Ambani successfully carried forward the legacy of Dhirubhai Ambani, taking it to an international level. On the other hand, Anil Ambani was unable to do the same. Kumar Mangalam Birla managed to carry forward the tradition of the Birla Group, while other Birlas were left behind. Anand Mahindra successfully carried forward the legacy of Keshub and Harish Mahindra. The rapid success achieved by Adani today is a testament to the dedication and acumen of the industry owners.
I have seen politics for a long time and the political perspective has always been to foster the growth of industries. In the past, the esteemed Tata and Birla groups were the sole representatives of India on the global stage. However, today, India boasts of a multitude of companies that bring immense pride to the nation on an international scale. It is imperative for any industry to receive support from the government in order to flourish. The leaders from countries such as Germany, Italy, South Korea, France and Japan often lead delegations of industrialists while visiting other countries, seeking cooperation from other countries. Here, unfortunately, it feels more like oppression!
I am on a trip to America and Mexico these days. The Silicon Valley in California, where I am staying, is a stronghold of numerous industrialists, many of whom possess wealth equivalent to the GDP of several countries. I am highlighting this to illustrate how industrialists are treated in this region. What is the scenario in our country? Several industrialists have relocated from India, which is concerning. Prominent figures like Hinduja, Mittal, Lohia, Bagri, Anil Agarwal and others are now operating their businesses from either Britain or Dubai. Why is this happening? Without industries, how can job opportunities be generated? Where will the government get tax revenue from? It is worth noting that industries directly contribute over 27 per cent to India’s GDP. Without taxes, how will the country develop? Where will funds for social welfare come from? The key to industrial prosperity lies in assisting and supporting industrialists, not ridiculing and alienating them. If industries thrive, the nation will thrive too.
The author is the chairman, Editorial Board of Lokmat Media and former member of Rajya Sabha.