Keshub Mahindra, chairman emeritus, Mahindra & Mahindra, has been conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award from ASSOCHAM (The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India), in recognition of his stellar contribution to Indian industry over the past five decades.

“To be honoured for one’s lifetime of work is a rare and prestigious honour. I would like to thank ASSOCHAM for bestowing me with this award which rightfully belongs to the over 180,000 employees of the Mahindra Group who have contributed to its growth and success in India and overseas,” said Mr Mahindra.

“As an inspirational business leader, socially conscious philanthropist and visionary entrepreneur, Mr Mahindra’s contribution to Indian business and industry is truly extraordinary. As a true doyen of Indian industry, he has not only helped build the Mahindra Group into a globally diversified multinational with a strong Indian ethos, but has also contributed to the development of a strong manufacturing sector in the country through active participation in several apex government committees and forums,” said Rana Kapoor, president, ASSOCHAM.

Mr Mahindra, who served as president of ASSOCHAM in 1969-70, is currently a member of the Apex Advisory Council of the association.

Mr Keshub Mahindra joined the Board of Mahindra & Mahindra in 1948 and was elected chairman in 1963. During the almost five decades of his chairmanship, the Mahindra Group grew from a manufacturer of automobiles into a federation of companies operating in a range of businesses which includes automobiles, tractors, auto components, IT, real estate, financial services and hospitality.

He has served on a number of Boards and councils in both the private and public domains. He was the founder chairman of HUDCO, served on many corporate Boards including SAIL, Tata Steel, Tata Chemicals, Indian Hotels, IFC, ICICI and HDFC, and held the position of president - ASSOCHAM, the Employers' Federation of India and the Bombay Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

A renowned philanthropist who redefined good corporate governance in India, he has served on several committees, including the Sachar Commission on Company Law and MRTP and the Central Advisory Council of Industries. From 2004-2010, he was a member of the Prime Minister’s Council on Trade & Industry, New Delhi.