In the vibrant realm of Indian IT, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) stands out as a prominent leader. As the flagship of the Tata Group, TCS has become a symbol of innovation and excellence within the global technology arena. However, every success story has humble beginnings, and TCS is no different.
Today, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is valued at Rs. 13.78 lakh crore, and its foundation can be traced back to a visionary from Pakistan. Faqir Chand Kohli, fondly known as the father of the Indian IT industry, significantly influenced the development of this sector.
A Journey from Pakistan to India
Born in 1924 in Peshawar (now in Pakistan), Faqir Chand Kohli’s life journey played a crucial role in shaping India’s technological landscape. His evolution from a young student in pre-partition India to being hailed as the “Father of the Indian IT Industry” exemplifies his vision, perseverance, and innovative spirit.
Kohli completed his education in his hometown before attending Government College for Men at Punjab University in Lahore, where he earned both a BA and a BSc (Hons) degree, graduating as the university gold medalist. His pursuit of knowledge then took him to Canada, where he graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Electrical Engineering from Queen’s University in 1948.
Early Career and Academic Pursuits
Shortly after, in 1950, Kohli began his career with Canadian General Electric while simultaneously pursuing an MS in Electrical Engineering at the esteemed Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This combination of hands-on experience and academic excellence laid the groundwork for his future groundbreaking contributions to the Indian IT sector.
In 1951, Faqir Chand Kohli started his professional journey at Tata Electric, where his pioneering work in power engineering quickly distinguished him. By 1969, encouraged by JRD Tata, Kohli took on a new challenge at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a venture launched by Tata Sons in 1968. Initially uncertain, Kohli’s innovative approach to applying computers in power systems showcased his visionary mindset, making him the ideal leader to guide TCS. Under his direction, TCS emerged as a leader in the global IT industry, solidifying Kohli’s legacy as a pivotal figure in India’s technological revolution.
Vision for Socioeconomic Advancement
Kohli envisioned TCS as a catalyst for India’s socioeconomic development through technological innovation. Under his leadership, the company flourished, establishing itself as a formidable player in the global IT landscape. He set an ambitious target to double TCS’s growth rate within five years, enhancing its reputation as a comprehensive solutions provider across various sectors, including banking and utilities. Kohli’s strategic foresight and commitment to excellence were instrumental in TCS’s success, enabling it to adapt to clients’ evolving needs while contributing significantly to India’s technological progress.
