The Better India’s Post

“If we have 50,000 machines,” #JRDTata noted, “we would undoubtedly have a special staff or a department to look after them… but when employing 30,000 human beings, each with a mind of his own, we seem to have assumed that they would look after themselves and that there was no need for a separate organization to deal with human problems involved.” In July 1943, a seriously ill JRD Tata wrote this thoughtful 2,500-word note on human relations in Tata Steel from his sick bed. He wanted his employees to have a say in their welfare and safety, and he wanted their suggestions on the running of the company. This important note resulted in the founding of India's first corporate HR department. His belief in employee welfare also went on to result in several other ‘firsts’ that Tata Steel introduced over time. In India, these include the 8-hour Work Day at our Jamshedpur plant in 1912, the Leave with Pay scheme in 1936 and the Workers’ Provident Fund Scheme in 1920 – all of which were subsequently adopted by the International Labour Organisation and enacted by law in India. #Tribute #Legend #Tata #HistoryofIndia #DeathAnniversary #JRDTata #8HourWorkDay #hrdepartment [Death Anniversary, JRD Tata, 8-Hour Work Day, HR Department, History]

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Soumi Banerjee (she/her)

L&D | OD | R&R | Engagement | Wellbeing

2w

Thats the reason that even after so many decades has passed, TATA's still remains the flag bearers giving so many "first's," to India and World across. Their simple belief in philosophy of "People First" will keep inspiring the world. Hats off to their team 👏👏

S S Badhawan

former-Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Govt of Jharkhand.

2w

only a person born and brought up in an Egalitarian society could have thought of welfare of all employees not few

Priya Yadav

agriculturist 🌾🌾🌾//innovation//agriculture farm setup counceling// agriculture input dealer//organic input dealer//FMCG// Food//potatoes//Chips and Snacks//News/// spraying//drone, follow on twitter @priyayadav8849

2w

But now the HR department is the employee's biggest fear 😅

Joe M.

Aviator, Author, Angel Investor,CEO, Aviation Consultant, Business Consultant, Hiring Interns, Projects, Business, Process, Infrastructure, Manpower, Research, TPF, Trading

2w

JRD Tata's vision and dedication to employee welfare laid the foundation for progressive labor practices in India. His foresight in establishing India's first corporate HR department and pioneering initiatives like the 8-hour workday, paid leave, and provident fund schemes demonstrate his belief in treating employees as invaluable assets, not just resources. These contributions not only transformed Tata Steel but also set benchmarks for the entire corporate sector. A true visionary who showed that businesses flourish when they care for their people. #Respect #VisionaryLeader #EmployeeFirst

Prachiti Patil

People and Culture Professional | Passionate About Transforming Workspaces into Engaging, Inclusive Environments | Strategist Focused on Aligning People Initiatives with Organizational Success

2w

HR plays a pivotal role in shaping the experience of any employee joining an organization. I believe this is why Tata envisioned the establishment of a Corporate HR department to prioritize people and adopt a more human-centric approach, rather than focusing solely on business objectives. As HR professionals, while it’s essential to address various aspects of business and support the people we work with, it’s equally important to remember that we are human beings first. At the end of the day, empathy and kindness are the cornerstones of meaningful relationships in the workplace. It’s no surprise that J.R.D. Tata is revered as a legend. His legacy continues to inspire and remain alive in our hearts.

An inspiring testament to the visionary leadership of JRD Tata! The focus on employee welfare and pioneering contributions to labor rights and corporate HR set a remarkable benchmark for organizations in India and beyond. Such initiatives continue to inspire us at Swavalamban Avam Swabhimaan Foundation (SAS Foundation) as we strive to create sustainable and impactful change in communities. #RespectForWorkers #Leadership #EmployeeWelfare

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Cherag Bachhawat

Founder @ cvDragon, India's first online resume platform exclusively created for Students & Institutions

2w

JRD Tata’s vision and commitment to employee welfare is truly inspiring. His forward-thinking approach, even during his illness, not only transformed Tata Steel but also set a benchmark for corporate responsibility in India. The foundation of India's first corporate HR department and initiatives like the 8-hour workday and leave with pay highlight his deep respect for people as the backbone of any organization. Truly a legacy of leadership that values both progress and human dignity!

Gaurav Kumar

Transformation Catalyst | Driving Customer Success through Asset-led Innovation | C-Level Advisor | Delivering Tangible Outcomes in Life Sciences, Healthcare, Energy, Resources and Utilities

2w

A powerful reminder that businesses thrive when people come first.

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