The 75th anniversary of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust being observed this year, provides an occasion to pause and reflect on its record. An Indian model on philanthropy did not exist when the Trust was set up. This Trust (along with other Tata Trusts) defined the ideal of ‘giving back to the nation’ through the philosophy of ‘constructive philanthropy’ enunciated by the Group’s founder, Jamsetji Tata. The same ideal and philosophy constitute the framework for the work of the Tata Trusts even today.
This year also marks the 60th anniversary of India’s independence and in many ways the challenges and successes of independent India have found expression in the work supported by the Trust. The many outstanding individuals who guided the Trust in the past, including John Matthai, RD Choksi, JRD Tata and Jamshed J Bhabha, constantly endeavoured to ensure that the Trust would engage with innovative and well thought-out nation building projects.
In the past year, the Trust has initiated a process of re-structuring so as to sharpen its focus in its grant making. In 2006-2007, the Trust disbursed Rs 860.52 million to projects straddling its main areas of Management of Natural Resources and Livelihood, Education, Health and Social Development Initiatives. Within that framework, however, newer and emerging areas of priority were identified: including working in the neglected North-East region, creating a portfolio of projects in Urban Poverty and Livelihoods, initiating work in the difficult area of mental health and providing support to media projects in development.
As the Trust reflects on its 75 years of contributing to the task of nation building, I would like to take this occasion to thank all our partners, consultants and staff for the exemplary commitment, dedication and selflessness they have displayed in contributing to the country’s development through their participation in the activities of the Trust. I am confident I can count on their continuing dedication in the years ahead.
