TKM also received the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award’ for excellence in automotive innovation and sustainability.
Bangalore 13 February 2025: The Government of Karnataka has posthumously honoured Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar, former Vice Chairman of Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) with the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award for his visionary leadership, pioneering contributions, and transformative role in shaping Karnataka’s industrial, economic, and social landscape. The felicitation, presented at the Invest Karnataka 2025 Global Investors Meet (GIM), acknowledges his lifelong commitment to industrialization, job creation, skill development, and strengthening local supplier ecosystem all of which have significantly contributed to Karnataka’s emergence as a global manufacturing hub.Further solidifying his legacy, Toyota Kirloskar Motor was also honoured with the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award’ in the Automotive Division at the event, recognizing the company’s leadership in innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in Karnataka—a testament to the strong foundation laid by Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar.
A passionate technocrat, educated at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar was a stalwart of India’s manufacturing and automotive sectors. He was instrumental in bringing Toyota to Karnataka and establishing Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) in Bidadi. Under his leadership, TKM evolved into one of India’s foremost automobile manufacturers, setting new benchmarks in technological excellence, green mobility, skilling initiatives, and sustainable manufacturing. His deep-rooted belief in inclusive growth played a defining role in fostering an industrial ecosystem that balances economic development with environmental responsibility and social impact. As the former President of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and former President of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), he made immense contributions to the growth of Industry in India.
Mrs. Geetanjali Kirloskar receiving the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award on behalf of Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar at Invest Karnataka 2025 Global Investors Meet
TKM Senior Leadership receiving the “Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award” at Invest Karnataka 2025 Global Investors Meet
Beyond industrial growth, Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar was deeply committed to giving back to society. He championedcommunity development and skill-building initiatives, ensuring that industry serves as a catalyst for social progress. His visionary leadership led to the creation of Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI), empowering thousands of young talents, particularly from rural Karnataka, with world-class technical education and employment opportunities. His efforts in local supplier development further strengthened Karnataka’s manufacturing ecosystem, fostering job creation and economic growth.
For over 25 years, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has been a trusted partner in Karnataka’s progress, investing ₹16,000 crores, with an additional ₹4,000 crores under execution, including the establishment of a third manufacturing plant. Inspired by Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar’s unwavering commitment to nation-building through responsible industry, Toyota remains dedicated to job creation, sustainability, skilling, and empowering local communities, ensuring that his vision continues to shape India’s industrial and economic future.
Expressing her gratitude, Ms. Manasi N. Tata, Vice Chairperson, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, and daughter of Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar, said,“On behalf of my mother Mrs. Geetanjali Kirloskar and everyone at Toyota Kirloskar Motor, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Karnataka for honouring my father with the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award and recognizing Toyota Kirloskar Motor with the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award.’ This is a deeply emotional and proud moment for us. I am especially grateful thatMrs. Geetanjali Kirloskar received the award on mine and her behalf, as she has been a pillar of strength and an integral part of my father’s journey. My father dedicated his life to advancing manufacturing excellence, sustainability, and innovation, believing in Karnataka’s immense industrial potential. This recognition reinforces Toyota’s commitment to responsible industrialization and green mobility. We remain dedicated to carrying forward his vision, strengthening Karnataka’s position as a global hub for sustainable manufacturing and technological excellence.”
Sharing his thoughts, Mr. Swapnesh R. Maru, Deputy Managing Director – Corporate Planning, Green Field Project, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We are truly grateful to the Government of Karnataka for recognizing Toyota Kirloskar Motor with the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award’ and for bestowing the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award upon our late leader, Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar. Over the past 25 years, Karnataka’s progressive policies, robust infrastructure, and skilled workforce have played a pivotal role in our journey, enabling us to contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic and industrial development. Our focus has always been on creating a sustainable manufacturing ecosystem, empowering local suppliers, and fostering skill development, particularly among rural youth. This recognition strengthens our resolve to continuecontributing to Karnataka’s industrial transformation in becoming a global manufacturing hub based on Toyota Production System (TPS) principles and legacy of Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar”
Reflecting on the award, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Head of State Affairs – Toyota Kirloskar Motor, remarked,“The recognition of Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar with the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award is a profound tribute to his lifelong contributions to the industry and society. We are equally honoured that Toyota Kirloskar Motor has received the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award,’ reinforcing our deep-rooted partnership with Karnataka. The state’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and skill development has empowered us to contribute beyond manufacturing—impacting education, community welfare, and the broader industrial landscape. The strength of Karnataka’s governance, infrastructure, and policy support has made the state a global leader in industrial excellence. As we step into the future, we remain committed to furthering this collaboration, driving economic progress, and strengthening India’s role in the global mobility revolution.”
As Karnataka pays tribute to one of its most distinguished industry leaders, Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar’s vision continues to illuminate the path forward—one where industrial growth is deeply intertwined with sustainability, inclusivity, and technological progress. His contributions will forever remain a cornerstone of India’s manufacturing excellence and Karnataka’s global industrial prominence.
