India has lost a visionary leader:CII

Trade body CII today paid tribute to late DMK President M Karunanidhi, saying the country has lost a great visionary, dynamic and inspiring leader who worked for the uplift of the underprivileged.

During Karunanidhi's tenure as Chief Minister over many terms, industrial growth in Tamil Nadu progressed remarkably well, CII president Rakesh Bharti Mittal said in a statement.

"CII has worked closely under the guidance and leadership of the former chief minister. Several key initiatives were taken through his inspirational direction and strong encouragement," he said.

Mittal referred to the programmes where CII had partnered with the government during the DMK regime which included development of IT parks in Tier II cities and setting up of the ICT Academy.

"Industry in the state will always miss his towering personality and erudite guidance," he said.

Apollo Hospitals founder-chairman Dr Prathap Reddy said "Tamil Nadu has lost one of its finest leaders and a visionary social reformist."
Terming Karunanidhi's death a "personal loss" to him, Reddy said, "he was always a supporter of my efforts to build India's first corporate hospital."