New Delhi:  Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Chairman & Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd., has been conferred the ‘Mexican Order of the Aztec Eagle’, the highest honour accorded to non-nationals by the Government of Mexico.

On the eve of the 128th National Day of Mexico, Melba Pría, Ambassador of Mexico to India, presented the award to Dr. Singhania on behalf of the President of Mexico. The top honour is in recognition of Dr. Singhania’s exemplary leadership, his noteworthy services towards humanity and his efforts to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Mexico.

Receiving the award, Dr. Singhania said, “I am honoured with the recognition that Her Excellency Ms. Melba Pría has conferred upon me. It has been a privilege to have played a role in creating interest among Indian businesses in investing in Mexico. I have fond memories of my first conversation about Tornel with then President of Mexico, Mr. Felipe Calderon, and the rest, as they say, is history. The Government of Mexico has indeed given boost to business by welcoming foreign investment with open arms. It is a reflection of the Mexican Government’s helpful attitude towards industry, something that is worth looking up to for other countries too.”

In 2008, JK Tyre & Industries expanded its robust manufacturing operations by acquiring Tornel having three production facilities in Azcapotzalco, Tultitlan and Hidalgo. Under Dr. Singhania’s strategic leadership, the company turned around the facility in the very first year by improving efficiencies and increasing market share across product segments.  Over the years, production capacity has been expanded, and Tornel’s global footprint enhanced in North America and the Latin America markets. The company recently implemented the first-ever labour restructuring programme in Mexico, at JK Tornel by right-sizing workforce. This was made possible due to tremendous help received from the Government of Mexico, particularly the Labour Ministry.