Mukesh Ambani backs Nano in Singur

Ambani called for the Indian industry and the political leadership to work together to meet aspirations of millions of Indians in urban and rural areas.

Ambani’s statement comes in the wake of Tata Motors Chairman Ratan Tata threatening to pull out the Rs 1,500-crore small car project from West Bengal after facing continued political opposition led by Trinamool Congress.

Terming the Nano project as “a unique and innovative initiative”, Ambani said it would establish the country’s position as a small car hub.

“The Indian industry must be encouraged to make such large investments in order to build the country’s competitiveness as well as support job creation,” he added.

Tata had last week threatened to quit the state saying “…if anybody is under the impression that because we have made this large investment of about Rs 1,500 crore… and because we have made this investment, we will not move, they are wrong.”

He had, however, reiterated that the Rs one lakh car project would be on track.

“I made a major investment here. To move is going to be a great cost to the company and great cost to Tata Motors’ shareholders. And I think it’s going to be a great cost to West Bengal,” he said.

Industry chambers CII, Ficci and Assocham had also supported the Tata and have asked the West Bengal Government to resolve the land issue with the Opposition.

The three apex chambers — CII, FICCI and Assocham — said West Bengal would be a big loser if the Tatas withdraw from the Singur project out of frustration.

Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath also said Tata was a victim of conflict between two political parties in West Bengal and the Centre could play a facilitating role to break the Singur stalemate.