We have the opportunity to renew that pledge to propel India towards technological self-reliance and global respect: Anand Mahindra on 80th Founders Day

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) celebrates its 80th Founders Day today as it completes eight decades since its inception. The company was founded by J.C. Mahindra, K.C. Mahindra on October 2, 1945, the same day as Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. 

The company was launched before India gained independence, and it was a time of economic uncertainty and social division. Its beginnings trace back to a Times of India advertisement, which called for enterprising individuals of all communities to join a company built on fairness and opportunity. 

The Mahindra Group, from assembling the first Willys jeeps in post-war India, has since then established itself as one of the largest multinational federations of companies with over 3,24,000 employees in over 100 countries. The company forays into farm equipment, utility vehicles, information technology and financial services in India and is also the world’s largest tractor company by volume. It has a presence in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, hospitality and real estate.

Commemorating this milestone, Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group, said, “Eighty years ago, the Mahindra Group was born with a crystal-clear purpose: to help build our nascent nation. Our founders pledged to develop industry, create livelihoods, and enable communities to rise from the violent throes of the struggle for independence into a brighter future. Today, we once again are in turbulent times, and we have the opportunity to renew that pledge to strive together to propel India towards technological self-reliance and global respect.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Anish Shah, Group CEO & MD, Mahindra Group, said, “Our founders were ahead of their time. Their first ad did not talk about products or profits; it highlighted the principles which will guide their activities: entrepreneurship, integrity, diversity, and a fearless optimism about India’s future. Eighty years later, those principles continue to guide us as we innovate, empower communities, and drive positive change across the world.” 

As the Mahindra Group celebrate 80 years, its leadership states that it continues to reaffirm its commitment to inclusivity and entrepreneurship, while maintaining performance, even amid global uncertainty. The Group operates in those sectors which contribute to 70% of India’s GDP, thereby strengthening its presence in the Indian economy.

The Mahindra Group, entering its ninth decade, says that it will continue to lead with purpose-driven growth, while building a platform for people, businesses, and partners to connect. 

The group highlighted programmes and initiatives such as Kaabil and Nanhi Kali, which have a social impact. Kaabil empowers women with the skills they need to secure livelihoods. Through Nanhi Kali, underprivileged girls are ensured access to holistic education.

The group, in its statement, said that it believes the current challenging geopolitical and economic landscape provides an opportunity for India to emerge as a global manufacturing powerhouse. “With its growing infrastructure, young workforce, and favourable policies, India’s opportunity to lead the world in manufacturing has never been greater.”