Our Founder

Founder’s Legacy
Dr. Raunaq Singh (1922–2002)

Dr. Raunaq Singh’s life is a remarkable testament to vision, resilience, and enterprise. From humble beginnings, when he could afford only one paisa a day for meals, he rose to become one of India’s most respected industrialists, employing over 9,000 people directly and creating livelihoods for another 20,000 through his organizations. His journey embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and the transformative power of determination.

As the founder of the Raunaq Group of Industries, Dr. Singh pioneered ventures that helped shape modern industrial India. Under his leadership, the Group grew into a diversified enterprise spanning manufacturing, engineering services, pharmaceuticals, international trade, and financial services. He was among the first to recognize the opportunities of liberalization and globalization in the 1990s, positioning the Raunaq Group to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing economy. His commitment to equality and inclusivity made the Group an equal opportunities employer, embracing diversity across religion, region, and background.

Dr. Singh’s influence extended far beyond his companies. He played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s industrial ecosystem through leadership positions in major trade and industry associations. He served as President of FICCI, ASSOCHAM, and the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (for five consecutive terms), and chaired councils that advanced Indo‑foreign business relations with countries including the USA, USSR, Canada, Japan, France, and Taiwan. His dynamic leadership earned him the reputation of “Mr. Exporter,” reflecting his relentless advocacy for Indian industry on the global stage.

Recognizing his acumen, the Government of India entrusted Dr. Singh with key responsibilities, nominating him to the Board of Trade, Export Import Bank of India, Export Credit Guarantee Corporation, and the National Integration Council. He was also the first Chairman of Maruti Ltd., and contributed to strategic initiatives such as the establishment of Free Ports in India. Internationally, he was elected to the Executive Board of the International Chamber of Commerce, Paris, underscoring his stature as a global business leader.

Widely traveled and deeply respected, Dr. Singh led business delegations to more than 25 countries, tirelessly promoting Indian industry abroad. He was a passionate advocate of economic liberalization and globalization, striving until his last day to place Indian enterprise firmly on the world map. His numerous awards for entrepreneurship and industrial growth reflect the recognition he received from both government and industry.

Enduring Inspiration

Today, as the Raunaq Group continues to evolve and embrace new opportunities in manufacturing, finance, and global trade, Dr. Raunaq Singh’s legacy remains its guiding force. His life story is not only a chronicle of personal achievement but also a source of inspiration for future generations, reminding us that with vision, perseverance, and integrity, it is possible to build enterprises that touch lives, strengthen nations, and endure across centuries.

Industry Association Responsibilities

Leadership in Industry & Public Institutions

Throughout his career, Dr. Raunaq Singh played an influential role in shaping India’s industrial and trade landscape. His leadership extended far beyond the Raunaq Group, as he contributed his time, experience, and perspective to several of the country’s most respected industry bodies. He served in key positions such as:

  • President, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI)
  • President, The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)
  • Chairman, Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC)
  • President, Punjab, Haryana & Delhi Chamber of Commerce & Industry
  • Chairman, Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association
  • President, Federation of Indian Export Organisations (five consecutive terms)
  • Chairman, Indo‑American Chamber of Commerce

He also chaired several Joint Business Councils, strengthening India’s economic engagement with countries including the USA, USSR, Canada, Japan, France, and Taiwan. In each of these roles, he worked to build bridges between Indian industry and global markets, helping businesses navigate new opportunities during a period of rapid economic change.

A widely travelled industrialist, Dr. Singh led business delegations to more than 25 countries, advocating for Indian enterprise and encouraging international collaboration. His belief in liberalization and global integration was ahead of its time, and he dedicated much of his life to ensuring that Indian industry found its rightful place on the world stage.

Public Service & National Appointments

Recognizing his insight and commitment, the Government of India entrusted Dr. Singh with several important responsibilities. He served as:

  • Director, Board of Trade
  • Director, Export‑Import Bank of India
  • Director, Export Credit Guarantee Corporation
  • Member, National Integration Council
  • Member, Indo‑German Consultative Group (nominated by the Prime Minister of India)
  • Member, Governing Council of the National Foundation for Communal Harmony
  • Member, Executive Board of the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT)
  • Chairman, Committee on the Establishment of Free Ports in India
  • First Chairman, Maruti Ltd.

These appointments reflected the trust placed in his judgment and his ability to bring a balanced, forward‑looking perspective to national policy discussions.

Recognition

Over the years, Dr. Raunaq Singh received numerous awards from government and industry institutions for his contributions to entrepreneurship, exports, and industrial development. His deep commitment to promoting Indian exports earned him the affectionate title “Mr. Exporter”, a recognition of both his achievements and his lifelong dedication to expanding India’s presence in global markets.

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