In the realm of business leaders, Mrs. Rajashree Birla stands as a shining example of philanthropy and unwavering commitment to social development. Born in September 1945, she has been a prominent figure in the business world for decades, and her influence extends far beyond corporate boardrooms. Through her unparalleled dedication, vision, and leadership, she has become a beacon of hope for millions, leaving an indelible mark on various communities and initiatives.
Early Years and Entry into Leadership – Rajashree Birla
Mrs. Rajashree Birla, born in September 1945, has proven herself as an eminent leader in the business world. She was reappointed as director of UltraTech Cement Limited at an Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in August 2020, after reaching the age of 75, a testament to her valuable contribution to her roles. She offers her expertise to various companies and initiatives, continuing to serve the communities diligently.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Name of Director | Mrs. Rajashree Birla |
| Brief Resume | Please refer to the Explanatory Statement forming part of this Notice. |
| Date of Birth / Age | 15th September, 1945/78 years |
| Date of First Appointment | 14th May, 2004 |
| Expertise in specific functional area | Industrialist |
| Qualification | BA |
| Terms & Conditions of re-appointment | Non-executive Director, liable to retire by rotation |
| Remuneration last drawn (sitting fees and commission) | Rs. 595.70 Lakhs |
| Remuneration proposed to be paid | Sitting fees and Commission as approved |
| Shareholding in the Company | 41,701 equity shares |
| Relationship with other Directors, Manager and other Key Managerial Personnel of the Company | Mother of Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla |
| No. of Board meetings held and attended during FY23 | 5 out of 6 |
| List of listed entity from which she has resigned as a Director in the past three years | NIL |
| Names of other public limited companies in which directorships held | 1. Century Enka Limited 2. Century Textiles and Industries Limited 3. Hindalco Industries Limited 4. Grasim Industries Limited 5. Pilani Investment and Industries Corporation Limited |
Driving Force in Community Initiatives and Rural Development
One of the most significant aspects of Mrs. Birla’s work is her dedication to community initiatives and rural development. She spearheads the Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, the apex body of the Aditya Birla Group responsible for development projects. Her ability to lead and inspire has enabled her to oversee social and welfare-driven work across all the Group’s companies, expanding their footprint to over 7,000 villages, and touching the lives of approximately 9 million people.
Education and Health Initiatives
As part of her commitment to social welfare, Mrs. Birla has played an instrumental role in education and healthcare. The group under her stewardship runs 20 hospitals and over 52 formal schools and non-formal educational institutes. They provide services to over 100,000 students, half of whom are girls, reflecting her dedication to promoting gender equality. These institutions operate on a ‘Not For Profit’ basis, reflecting her commitment to philanthropy.
Leadership Positions and Associations
Mrs. Birla holds key leadership positions across several organizations, highlighting her wide-reaching influence and recognition in various fields. She is the Chairperson of FICCI’s first-ever Expert Committee on CSR, and the FICCI – Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence. Additionally, she serves as the Chairperson for Habitat for Humanity (India), and holds positions on the Board of the Asia Pacific Committee, Habitat’s Global Committee, and the CSR Committee of the SBI Foundation. A patron of arts and culture, she serves as the President of the Sangit Kala Kendra and the INT-ABCPA.
Acknowledgment and Awards
Mrs. Birla’s exceptional work in the field of social service has earned her national and international recognition. She was bestowed with the “Padma Bhushan” Award by the Government of India in 2011 for her exemplary contribution to social work. Her relentless endeavours towards polio eradication earned her the “Polio Eradication Champion” Award from the Government of India. Among other notable accolades, the “Global Golden Peacock Award for CSR” stands as a testament to her commitment to corporate social responsibility.
Roles in Various Corporations
In addition to her philanthropic work, Mrs. Birla serves on the boards of several prestigious companies, including Grasim Industries Limited, Hindalco Industries Limited, Century Textiles and Industries Limited, Century Enka Limited, and Pilani Investment and Industries Corporation Limited. Furthermore, she is on the boards of international companies across Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, and Egypt. Her vast knowledge and decades-long experience have greatly benefited these corporations and have significantly contributed to their success.
Continuation of the Journey
Today, Mrs. Birla continues her journey, sharing her vast experience and seniority, which have greatly benefited her numerous roles. As a Non-Executive Director, she continues to demonstrate her physical fitness and good health, offering herself for re-appointment, even after reaching the age of retirement. Her story is a powerful testament to her dedication to social development and corporate excellence, inspiring countless individuals and organizations worldwide.
