 A first hand account of how India’s iconic car manufacturer embellished the image of the functioning of a much maligned Public Sector Undertaking in India. The book contains invaluable insights regarding the pernicious working of the erstwhile License Raj which led to ridiculous levels of customer service (or the lack of it). Established as Maruti Udyog Limited subsequent to the tragic death of Sanjay Gandhi, the mandate provided to the PSU was to roll out India’s own car by December, 1983. Working over time and in collaboration with Suzuki Motor Corporation, Maruti overcame insurmountable hurdles, both political and practical to release the first vehicle within the stipulated deadline. Since then Maruti has progressed from strength to strength not only introducing multiple variants of cars to cater to a wide segment of customers but also has had the pride of seeing its vehicles being exported to both Eastern and Western Europe, and Latin America.
R.C.Bhargava also provides an illuminating overview of the bureaucratic rigmaroles plaguing a PSU and a sacrosanct need to follow draconian procedures with a sole objective of protecting vested interests at the cost of increased sales and improved profitability. However where the book disappoints the reader is the excessive platitudes showered upon the Japanese Joint Venture company in aiding and assisting Maruti to become a automobile manufacturer of repute. While there is no denying the indispensable role played by SMC in the furtherance of Maruti’s prospects, placing the entire credit for the success of the company in the hands of its Japanese partner is a bit disappointing. On the whole this is a very important book that fills the reader with pride and passion. The Maruti Story – Driving dreams to a great distance! |
The Maruti Story – How a public sector company put India on wheels by R.C. Bhargava
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