The Maharashtra cabinet has passed a resolution urging the central government to confer the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, on the late Ratan Tata, who passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 86. Tata, the Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons and a towering figure in Indian industry and philanthropy, was hailed for his visionary leadership and humanitarian contributions.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his cabinet, along with deputies Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, paid tribute to Tata, observing a minute of silence in his honor. The Shiv Sena party had earlier proposed the Bharat Ratna for Tata, citing his exceptional service and legacy.

Shiv Sena leader Rahool Kanal had written to Chief Minister Shinde, urging him to propose Tata’s name for the award. In his letter, Kanal described Tata as “a visionary leader and compassionate humanitarian” whose work extended beyond business, highlighting his efforts in philanthropy, including sheltering stray animals and establishing cancer hospitals for the underprivileged.

“Shri Tata Ji epitomized the values of kindness, integrity, and selfless service to humanity,” Kanal wrote, adding that awarding Tata the Bharat Ratna would be a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to improving society.

Tata was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai earlier this week after a sudden drop in blood pressure. He passed away on Wednesday night after a brief illness. His body has been placed at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai for the public to pay their last respects, and his last rites will be conducted with full state honors.

Born in Mumbai on December 28, 1937, Ratan Tata served as Chairman of Tata Sons from 1991 to 2012 and later as Chairman Emeritus. Under his leadership, the Tata Group expanded its global footprint, acquiring iconic brands like Jaguar Land Rover and Tetley. In addition to his business achievements, Tata was well-known for his philanthropic work through the Ratan Tata Trust and the Dorabji Tata Trust, two of the largest charitable organizations in India.

The Bharat Ratna, instituted in 1954, is awarded for “exceptional service or performance of the highest order” in any field of human endeavor. The award has previously been given to 53 individuals, with 18 posthumous honors.

If the central government accepts the Maharashtra cabinet’s proposal, Ratan Tata’s name could be announced on Republic Day, January 26, 2025, alongside other national figures.