Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of eminent industrialist and philanthropist Swaraj Paul, describing him as a tireless advocate of stronger India-UK ties and a pioneer in philanthropy and public service.
In a post on X, PM Modi recalled his personal interactions with Paul and extended condolences to his family and admirers.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Swaraj Paul Ji. His contributions to industry, philanthropy and public service in the UK, and his unwavering support for closer ties with India will always be remembered. I fondly recall our many interactions. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” he wrote.
Born in Jalandhar in 1931, Swaraj Paul moved to the United Kingdom and went on to establish the Caparo Group in 1968. Over the decades, he became a leading figure in business and philanthropy. The Government of India conferred him with the Padma Bhushan in 1983 in recognition of his contributions.
Paul also founded the Indo-British Association in 1975, dedicated to strengthening bilateral understanding and cooperation, and served as its Chairman.
The Indian diaspora in the UK, numbering nearly 1.9 million people (2.6% of the UK population), has played a significant role in deepening ties between the two nations. According to a 2022 Grant Thornton–FICCI report, the diaspora community owns more than 65,000 businesses in the UK, a legacy to which Swaraj Paul contributed significantly.
