Ratan N Tata, the man behind the phenomenal growth of the Tata Group and rejuvenating its companies like Telco and Tata Steel by inducting a new culture meeting the needs of the times while carrying on the legacy of ethical and good corporate governance practices was honored for his leadership and excellence in business.
Dr R A Mashelkar, an innovative professional, a creative administrator and an eminent polymer scientist was awarded for his excellence in science and technology.
Ela Bhatt, founder of the powerful women's organisation SEWA, was awarded the leadership award for her contribution to the movement for self-reliance and empowerment of women and marginal workers.
The Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow has undertaken various initiatives in the past to promote and develop leadership in the country. To honour individuals who have exhibited exceptional leadership through pursuits of excellence, IIML has instituted the Lakshmipat Singhania-IIML National Leadership Awards in association with, JK Industries Ltd., Lakshmipat Singhania Education Foundation and JK Paper Ltd of the J.K. Organisation, a leading industrial group of the country.