The Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok has conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Technology (Honoris Causa) on Tata Group chairman Ratan Tata. 

This award was presented to Mr Tata, “In recognition of his outstanding contributions to industrial development in India, contributions to Indian society through the Tata Group’s philanthropic trusts, in the fields of science, technology, medicine, social services, rural welfare and the performing arts, and to building better relations and understanding between India and the countries in the Asia-Pacific region,” according to the citation. 

The citation was awarded at the annual graduation ceremony of the Asian Institute of Technology. The event was attended by Anand Panyarachun, chairman of the board of trustees, Asian Institute of Technology, the president of Asian Institute of Technology amongst other dignitaries. The ceremony was of special significance, as it was the 100th graduation ceremony of the Asian Institute of Technology. 

The citation to the award added that Mr Tata has changed the complexion of the group from being a relatively unwieldy conglomerate to make it more nimble-footed and cohesive.