Biography of Mallika Srinivasan:Chairman of Tractors & Farm Equipment Ltd.- Industrialist
Biography of Mallika Srinivasan: India's Agricultural Industry
Mallika Srinivasan, born in 1959, is a prominent figure in
Indian industry, renowned as the Chairman and Managing Director of Tractors and
Farm Equipment Limited (TAFE), a leading tractor manufacturer based in Chennai
since 1960.
Academics: A Journey of Achievement and Distinction
Her academic journey is marked by exceptional
accomplishments. She earned a degree in mathematics from Women's Christian
College, laying the foundation for her academic pursuits. Subsequently, she
distinguished herself as a university gold-medalist in Econometrics from the
University of Madras, showcasing her excellence in quantitative analysis and
economics.
Continuing her pursuit of knowledge and achievement, she
graduated with honors as a member of the Dean's Honor List and the Alpha Beta
Gamma Society from the Wharton School of Business at the University of
Pennsylvania. Her alma mater recognizes her as one of its top 125 most
successful alumni, underscoring her profound impact and leadership in the field
of business and beyond.
Corporate Leadership and Governance
At TAFE, Mallika Srinivasan has steered the company to great
heights, solidifying its position in India's agricultural sector. Her
leadership extends beyond TAFE; she serves as the Chairperson of the Public
Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) appointed by the Government of India,
ensuring robust leadership in public enterprises.
Mallika Srinivasan: Driving Innovation and Growth in
Agriculture
Mallika Srinivasan is renowned for transforming TAFE
(Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited) into a leading manufacturer of tractors
and farm machinery. Under her visionary leadership, TAFE has evolved into a
diversified conglomerate with revenues exceeding Rs. 10,000 Crores. The
company's portfolio spans tractors, farm machinery, diesel engines, generators,
engineering plastics, hydraulic pumps and cylinders, automobile franchises, and
plantations.
Transforming TAFE into a Leader
In 1986, Mallika Srinivasan embarked on her journey with
Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited (TAFE), assuming the role of General
Manager when the company's turnover stood at Rs 85 crore. With her father's
guidance and the team's support, she spearheaded TAFE's transformation into a
technology-driven enterprise, positioning it as the preferred choice among
farmers.
Steadfast Growth Amid Challenges
Despite facing challenges, including tough economic periods,
Srinivasan led TAFE to invest significantly in product design and development,
totaling over Rs 70 crore. This commitment laid the foundation for the
company's growth, which now boasts a business exceeding Rs 1,200 crore.
Mallika Srinivasan: A Visionary Leader in Industry
Mallika Srinivasan's career path is a testament to her
exceptional vision and leadership. Taking the helm at TAFE (Tractors and Farm
Equipment Limited), she steered the company to become a prominent mass
manufacturer of tractors, setting new benchmarks in the agricultural machinery
sector.
Diversification and Innovation
Under Srinivasan's astute guidance, TAFE expanded its
footprint across diverse sectors, including tractors, farm machinery, diesel
engines, generators, engineering plastics, hydraulic pumps and cylinders,
automobile franchises, and plantations. Her strategic approach to
diversification has been instrumental in TAFE's growth and resilience in the
competitive market.
Industry Engagement and Leadership
Srinivasan actively contributed to shaping industry policies
and standards through her leadership roles in key organizations. She served
prominently in the Tractor Manufacturers Association of India, advocating for
advancements in agricultural technology and practices. Additionally, her
involvement in the Madras Chamber of Commerce provided her with a platform to
foster economic growth and collaboration within the business community.
National Influence and Advocacy
Her influence extended beyond corporate boardrooms to
national platforms such as the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT). In these capacities, Srinivasan
leveraged her expertise to drive initiatives that promoted industrial
development, trade, and economic reforms beneficial to India's growth
trajectory.
Leadership and Industry Influence
Srinivasan has played pivotal roles in various industry
bodies, including her tenure as the head of the Tractor Manufacturers'
Association of India and leadership positions in the Madras Chamber of
Commerce. Her contributions extend to national platforms such as the
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Indian Institute of Foreign
Trade (IIFT), where she has influenced policy and industry standards.
Innovative Approach and Achievements
Under Srinivasan's stewardship, TAFE has consistently driven
innovation in agricultural machinery, enhancing productivity and sustainability
in farming practices across India. Her strategic vision has not only propelled
TAFE to the forefront of the agricultural equipment sector but has also
positioned the company as a symbol of excellence and reliability in the global
market.
Biography of Mallika Srinivasan: Chairman and MD of Tractors & Farm Equipment Ltd./Tractor Manufacturers/core member of the BRICS/jouney Mallika Srini
Diversification and Expansion
Under Srinivasan's leadership, TAFE expanded beyond tractor
manufacturing to include engineering plastics, automotive batteries, gears,
hydraulic pumps, and farm implements. The company's strategic alliance with
Massey Ferguson, now part of Agco, further bolstered its market position and
facilitated plans for exporting fully assembled tractors to Agco.
Leadership in Industry Associations
Mallika Srinivasan's influence extends beyond TAFE; she
serves as President of esteemed industry bodies like the Tractor Manufacturers
Association and the Madras Management Association. Notably, she is the first
woman to hold the presidency of the Madras Chamber of Commerce and Industry,
underscoring her trailblazing role in business leadership.
Global Influence and Advisory Roles
Mallika Srinivasan's influence transcends borders; she sits
on the Global Board of the U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) and the Boards
of AGCO Corporation in the United States. Her role in the BRICS Women's
Business Alliance (BRICS WBA) and membership in the India-US CEO Forum
underscore her commitment to fostering international business partnerships.
Philanthropy: Impacting Lives through Generosity
She is a dedicated supporter of various charitable causes,
including Sankara Nethralaya, a renowned eye care organization, and the Cancer
Hospital in Chennai. Her contributions extend to educational and healthcare
institutions in Alwarkurichi, Tirunelveli district, focusing on enhancing
community well-being in South India. Additionally, she plays a pivotal role in
promoting and preserving Carnatic music through her involvement with the Indira
Sivasailam Foundation, affirming her commitment to cultural enrichment.
Impacting Lives Beyond Business
Mallika Srinivasan's commitment to philanthropy extends deep
into the heart of societal causes. She actively supports Sankara Nethralaya, a
leading eye care institution, and contributes to the Cancer Hospital in
Chennai. Her charitable endeavors also reach educational and healthcare facilities
in Alwarkurichi, Tirunelveli district, aiming to uplift communities in South
India. Additionally, Mallika passionately promotes and sustains Carnatic music
through her involvement with the Indira Sivasailam Foundation, reflecting her
dedication to preserving cultural heritage and enriching lives through the
arts.
Commitment to Education and Social Development
Beyond business and governance, Mallika Srinivasan
contributes to education as a member of the Governing Body of Stella Maris
College in Chennai. Her multifaceted contributions to industry, governance, and
education highlight her dedication to advancing India's economic and social
landscape.
Awards and Recognitions: Celebrating Excellence
Mallika Srinivasan's exceptional contributions have earned
her widespread recognition and acclaim. In 2011, she was honored as
Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst and Young, and Forbes India named her Woman
Leader of the Year, acknowledging her outstanding leadership in business. She
has been listed among Forbes Asia's Top 50 Asian Power Businesswomen, further
solidifying her influential role in the corporate sphere.
Business Today recognized Mallika as one of the six Most
Powerful Women of India Inc., highlighting her significant impact and leadership
in the business community. The Asian Business Leadership Forum (ABLF) honored
her with the prestigious ABLF Woman of Power Award, underscoring her stature as
a trailblazer in her field.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions to trade and
industry, the Government of India conferred upon Mallika Srinivasan the Padma
Shri in 2014. This prestigious award underscores her profound impact on the
business landscape and her unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.
Consistently featured among India's Most Powerful Women in
Business by Fortune India and Business Today, Mallika Srinivasan continues to
inspire and empower others through her visionary leadership, philanthropy, and
dedication to creating positive change in society. Her achievements serve as a
testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence and her enduring legacy in
both business and philanthropy.
A timeline summarizing Mallika Srinivasan's journey and
achievements:
1959: Mallika Srinivasan is born.
1960: Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited (TAFE) is
established in Chennai.
1986: Mallika Srinivasan joins TAFE as General Manager.
1995: Mallika Srinivasan becomes Executive Director of TAFE.
2000: Mallika Srinivasan assumes the role of Deputy Chairman
of TAFE.
2001: She becomes Chairman and Managing Director of TAFE,
steering the company to significant growth and diversification.
2011: Mallika Srinivasan is honored as Entrepreneur of the
Year by Ernst and Young.
2014: Awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India for
her contributions to trade and industry.
2020: Mallika Srinivasan continues to lead TAFE, expanding
its presence in agricultural machinery and beyond.
This timeline captures Mallika Srinivasan's progressive
leadership at TAFE, her influential role in industry associations, and her
notable contributions to philanthropy and cultural preservation. Her journey
underscores her impact on India's agricultural sector and her recognition as a
trailblazer in business leadership.
