Essar Group Chairman Shashikant Ruia Dies at 81

Shashikant Ruia, the patriarch of the Ruia and Essar family, passed away at the age of 81, as confirmed by the Essar Group. He co-founded the Essar Group in 1969, transforming it into a global conglomerate across various sectors including infrastructure, telecommunications, and steel. Ruia was known for his commitment to community upliftment and philanthropy, impacting millions of lives through his leadership and vision. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Ruia as a 'colossal figure' in the business world, acknowledging his contributions to India's industrial landscape. His legacy is marked by a focus on innovation and recent efforts toward sustainability, including substantial investments in low-carbon projects. Ruia is survived by his two sons, who continue to lead the company he helped build.