Noel Tata is spearheading a major governance overhaul at the Sir Ratan Tata Trust (SRTT), one of Tata Trusts’ flagship entities holding a significant stake in Tata Sons. The initiative seeks to draft a formal trust deed to replace the century-old will-based structure, ensuring compliance with modern regulations.
Key Governance Reforms
This review follows a postponed trustee meeting for inducting Neville Tata, Noel Tata’s son, highlighting quorum and unanimous approval challenges under the current framework. Unlike the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust with its established deed, SRTT’s 1918 will lacks clear rules on trustee tenures, meetings, and succession.
The Maharashtra Public Trusts Amendment Ordinance 2025 mandates fixed terms, capping perpetual trustees at 25% of board strength, prompting this proactive alignment. Legal experts praise the move for reducing disputes and clarifying trustee duties.
Strategic Benefits
A formal deed will streamline decision-making and fund management, bolstering the trusts’ oversight of Tata Group’s philanthropic and corporate directions. This modernization upholds the Tata legacy of transparent, mission-driven governance amid evolving legal landscapes.
