Mullapudi Harischandra Prasad, the doyen of industry in Andhra Pradesh, passed away today at the age of 91. He was the Chairman and Managing Director of Andhra Sugars, which he founded in August 1947.

Andhra Sugars, located in the coastal rich town of Tanuku in West Godavari district also contributed to India's space programme. 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).

Mr Harischandra Prasad also started Andhra Petrochemicals Limited, 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).

Known for his philanthropy and help for the people in the district, Mr Harishchandra Prasad became an 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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