How Ratan Tata won over the Air India unions: Naina Lal Kidwai

Ratan Tata's exceptional negotiation skills and connection with people were vividly demonstrated during the Air India privatisation bid in 2000. Naina Lal Kidwai, Founder of the India Sanitation Council and former FICCI President, recalled how Tata addressed the unions, who were initially resistant to the idea of privatisation. "He addressed the unions twice in really amazing down-to-earth interactions and totally won them over," Kidwai said, highlighting Tata's humble approach that left a lasting impression.

 

"No matter who went to meet Mr. Tata, they always came out very impressed with his business acumen," Kidwai noted.

 

"He had the ability to connect with people across the globe; he was a global citizen. She emphasised his unique ability to forge connections globally, calling him a "global citizen."

 

The unions, initially unhappy about transitioning to the private sector, ended up rooting for the Tata Group, with even the lift operator eager to know when the deal would be finalised.

 

Although the acquisition ultimately didn't materialise due to external factors, Kidwai praised Tata’s patience and long-standing interest in the airline industry.

 

"I'm glad that in his lifetime, he saw [Air India] come into the Tata fold," she said, referencing Tata’s enduring connection to Air India, now with the Tata Group.