Leading industrialists in Tamil Nadu recalled the former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's contribution to the industrial development of the State, describing him as a multi-faceted and an industry-friendly personality and one who brought many first-in-the country government policies.

Businessmen from across sectors recalled their association and personal experiences with Karunanidhi, a five-time Chief Minister, who passed away last month, at a tribute meeting organised by the Southern India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) and other industrial bodies.

Calling him as a champion of industrial growth, M Rafeeque Ahmed, President, SICCI, said Tamil Nadu witnessed a steep growth in industrial development whenever Karunanidhi served as a Chief Minister. State industrial estates, MSME policy for the first time, Tidal Park for IT, promotion of electronic hardware manufacturing, among others, were Karunanidhi’s unique achievements, he said.

Venu Srinivasan, Chairman of TVS Motors Company, described him as a ‘modern day reformer’ and the greatest social reformer. Today, Tamil Nadu is one of the most dynamic societies. It is because of the transformation happened under his regime.

‘Left a great legacy’

“A man of great human qualities. He walked with kings but never lost common touch. Anybody could go and meet him and he has left a great legacy for the next generation leader MK Stalin,” he added.

In his speech, India Cements’ Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, N Srinivasan, who had a five-decade-long association with Karunanidhi, said one of the greatest characteristics of the former Chief Minister was he understood change. He was the architech of IT growth in the State. “He always lived in the present. During his tenure, for the first time Tamil Nadu beat Maharashtra as the most industrialised State. Also, the State received highest investments in the industrial sector during his period,” he added.

‘Always cordial’

Chairman Emeritus of SPIC, AC Muthiah, said Karunanidhi was always cordial with industrialists and listened to businessmen in solving major issues.

Chairman Thiagarajar Mills, M Karumuttu T Kannan, recalled the former Chief Minister’s acumen in handling various issues brought before him.

Chairman of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan BK Krishnaraj Vanavarayar, Chairman of CavinKare CK Ranganathan, Chairman of Simpson Group A. Krishnamoorthy and Chairman of PGP Group Palani G Periasamy were among the industrialists who attended the meeting.

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