For 64 years, he steered two of the oldest companies in Andhra Pradesh — Andhra Sugars and Andhra Petrochemicals Ltd, perhaps qualifying to be one of the longest runs at the helm in corporate India.

In the past 60 years, there has not been a single strike by the employees of Andhra Sugars, testifying to the benevolent and sound management administered by Mr Mullapudi Harischandra Prasad, the founder Chairman and Managing Director, who passed away today at the ripe age of 91.

Andhra Sugars, located in the coastal town of Tanuku in West Godavari district, was started on August 11, 1947, days before India gained Independence.

Driven by the passion of self-reliance espoused by Mr Harishchandra Prasad, the company developed the propellant fuel for the rocket boosters of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), giving a private sector support to India's space programme.

Mr Harischandra Prasad also started Andhra Petrochemicals Ltd , which was amongst the first in the chemical sector.

Known for his employee friendly management and fostering entrepreneurship among people, Mr Harischandra Prasad served as the President of the Federation of Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FAPCCI).

Counted amongst the early industrialists of South India, Mr Harischandra Prasad was a stickler for punctuality and discipline. Always dressed in the traditional attire, he was soft-spoken and mixed well with his employees.

Known for his philanthropy and help for the people in the district, Mr Harishchandra Prasad became and MLA and was close to the late N.T. Rama Rao. He was ailing for the past week and was admitted to the corporate hospital in Hyderabad.

Condoling his death, the FAPCCI said, “His contribution is so significant that he is often called Andhra Birla. He pioneered the setting up of several industries in the State.”

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