The Government of Karnataka has posthumously honoured Late Vikram S. Kirloskar, former Vice Chairman of Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), with the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award for his visionary leadership and pioneering contributions to Karnataka’s industrial, economic, and social development. Presented at the Invest Karnataka 2025 Global Investors Meet (GIM), the award recognizes his lifelong dedication to industrialization, job creation, skill development, and strengthening the local supplier ecosystem—key factors in Karnataka’s rise as a global manufacturing hub. Further cementing his legacy, Toyota Kirloskar Motor also received the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award’ in the Automotive Division, acknowledging its leadership in innovation, sustainability, and economic growth, all built on the strong foundation laid by Late Vikram S. Kirloskar.
A passionate technocrat and alumnus of the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Late Vikram S. Kirloskar was a stalwart in India’s manufacturing and automotive sectors. He played a pivotal role in bringing Toyota to Karnataka and establishing Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) in Bidadi. Under his leadership, TKM became one of India’s leading automobile manufacturers, setting new standards in technological excellence, green mobility, skilling initiatives, and sustainable manufacturing. His commitment to inclusive growth fostered an industrial ecosystem that balanced economic progress with environmental responsibility and social impact. As a former President of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), he made significant contributions to India’s industrial growth.
Beyond industrial growth, Late Vikram S. Kirloskar was deeply dedicated to social progress. He championed community development and skill-building initiatives, ensuring industry served as a catalyst for positive change. His visionary leadership led to the establishment of the Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI), equipping thousands of young talents, especially from rural Karnataka, with world-class technical education and employment opportunities. His commitment to local supplier development further strengthened Karnataka’s manufacturing ecosystem, driving job creation and economic growth.
For over 25 years, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has been a key driver of Karnataka’s progress, investing ₹16,000 crores, with ₹4,000 crores more underway, including a third manufacturing plant. Inspired by Late Vikram S. Kirloskar’s vision, Toyota remains committed to job creation, sustainability, skilling, and community empowerment, shaping India’s industrial and economic future.
Expressing her gratitude, Ms. Manasi N. Tata, Vice Chairperson of Toyota Kirloskar Motor and daughter of Late Vikram S. Kirloskar, said, “On behalf of my mother, Mrs. Geetanjali Kirloskar, and everyone at Toyota Kirloskar Motor, I sincerely thank the Government of Karnataka for honoring 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 that Mrs. Geetanjali Kirloskar accepted the award on our behalf, as she has been a pillar of strength and an integral part of my father’s journey. He dedicated his life to advancing manufacturing excellence, sustainability, and innovation, believing in Karnataka’s immense industrial potential. This recognition reaffirms Toyota’s commitment to responsible industrialization and green mobility, and we remain dedicated to carrying forward his vision, strengthening Karnataka as a global hub for sustainable manufacturing and technological excellence.”
Mr. Swapnesh R. Maru, Deputy Managing Director – Corporate Planning, expressed gratitude to the state for its support over the past 25 years, emphasizing TKM’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing, local supplier empowerment, and skill development.
Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer & Senior VP, highlighted Karnataka’s role in fostering innovation, sustainability, and industrial growth. He reaffirmed TKM’s dedication to advancing economic progress and India’s position in the global mobility sector.
The recognition of Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar pays tribute to his legacy in shaping India’s manufacturing excellence, sustainability, and industrial transformation.
