Guwahati, 09 October (HS): Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday paid tribute to veteran industrialist Ratan Tata, recalling his visionary approach, commitment to public welfare and significant contributions to Assam's healthcare and industrial sectors.

In a social media post, Sarma said Tata would remain an unforgettable figure in India's industrial landscape, particularly in Assam, not only for his achievements as an industrialist but also for his exceptional vision and genuine concern for the state's development. He said Assam would remember him as a true well-wisher who consistently sought to understand what more could be done for its people.

Recalling his interactions with Tata, the Chief Minister said the industrialist's visits to Assam often marked the beginning of significant initiatives. Tata, he added, was never primarily concerned with promoting corporate interests during their discussions but instead focused on exploring opportunities to improve people's lives.

Highlighting Tata's contribution to cancer care, Sarma said the industrialist played a crucial role in developing a comprehensive cancer treatment network across Assam. At a time when cancer was claiming numerous lives every year, Tata went beyond financial assistance and actively participated in discussions on establishing an organised healthcare system covering 17 hospitals across the state.

According to Sarma, Tata helped transform the Assam Cancer Care Foundation from a plan into an operational network dedicated to saving lives. The Chief Minister recalled that Tata had once expressed his desire to devote the final phase of his life to healthcare, adding that Assam became an important part of fulfilling that commitment.

Sarma also highlighted Tata's confidence in Assam's potential to emerge as a technology hub. He said the upcoming Tata semiconductor project at Jagiroad, expected to become operational towards the end of this year, would represent the realisation of a vision that Tata had for the state. He described the project as a landmark development for Assam and noted that the township being developed around it would be named 'Ratan Tata Electronic City' in his memory.

The Chief Minister said Tata's contributions had helped elevate the Northeast's healthcare capabilities and create new industrial aspirations during his lifetime.

Sarma added that Assam was remembering not merely a great Indian industrialist but also a benefactor who placed his faith in the state and worked towards its progress, expressing gratitude for his enduring legacy.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash