Tata Trusts likely to meet today to discuss Ratan Tata's succession plan: Report

Tata Trust is likely to meet today to discuss Ratan Tata's succession plan after he passed away on Wednesday night in a Mumbai hospital, according to media reports.

Ratan Tata, a visionary leader and philanthropist, was laid to rest with full state honors in Mumbai on October 10. Tata did not designate a successor leaving questions about the future of his legacy.

However, it is important to understand that each Tata Group companies operate independently under their respective board of directors. The Tata Trusts, particularly the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and the Sir Ratan Tata Trust, maintain their influence as major shareholders of Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group, where they collectively hold a 66 per cent stake. These Trusts, known for their work in poverty alleviation, healthcare, and education, are an integral part of Ratan Tata’s philanthropic legacy.

Board of trustees of Sir Ratan Tata Trust include Vijay Singh, vice-chairman, Venu Srinivasan, vice-chairman, JN Tata, Noel N Tata, Jehangir HC Jehangir, Mehli Mistry and Darius Khambata. While board of trustees of Sir Dorabji Tata Trust comprises of Vijay Singh, vice-chairman, Venu Srinivasan, vice-chairman, Pramit Jhaveri, Noel N Tata, Mehli Mistry and Darius Khambata.

Current Leadership

N Chandrasekaran, who took over as Chairman of Tata Sons in 2017, remains at the helm of the Tata Group. Previously the CEO of Tata Consultancy Services ( TCS ), Chandrasekaran’s leadership and strategic skills have been widely praised. He continues to provide stability to the group during this period of transition.

Ratan Tata’s illustrious journey with the Tata Group began in 1962 after he completed his studies in architecture at Cornell University. Rising through the ranks, he became Chairman of Tata Sons in 1991. Under his leadership, the Tata Group saw unprecedented global growth, including the public listing of TCS and the acquisition of Jaguar Land Rover by Tata Motors .

Beyond business, Ratan Tata’s legacy is deeply rooted in philanthropy. Through the Tata Trusts, he spearheaded numerous initiatives focused on social development in India. Even after stepping down as Chairman in 2012, he remained involved as Chairman Emeritus of the Trusts.