Power, Percentages, and a $368 Billion Empire: Tata’s Boardroom Battle by the Numbers

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A leadership crisis is unfolding at Tata Group, India’s largest conglomerate, as internal tensions within Tata Trusts—holder of 66% of Tata Sons—spark governance concerns. With $368 billion in market cap and 26 listed companies, the stakes are high as boardroom dynamics threaten to reshape the group’s future.

Tensions at the top of India’s biggest conglomerate

The Tata Group, a $368 billion corporate behemoth with 26 listed companies, is facing a rare and public boardroom crisis. At the heart of the turmoil is Tata Trusts, the philanthropic body that owns a controlling 66% stake in Tata Sons, the holding company of the group. The internal rift has drawn national attention and even prompted intervention from top government officials.

The conflict reportedly centers around leadership succession and governance practices within Tata Trusts. The board, chaired by Noel Tata, is divided over strategic direction and control, with tensions surfacing between key figures including Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran, Vice Chairman Venu Srinivasan, and trustee Darius Khambata.

Government steps in as stakes rise

The situation escalated when Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with Tata leadership to mediate the crisis. The rare government involvement underscores the economic and symbolic importance of the Tata Group to India’s corporate landscape.

Analysts warn that prolonged instability could impact investor confidence, especially with Tata’s global ventures like Air India, Tata Motors, and TCS under close watch.

Key numbers behind the Tata turmoil

- Tata Trusts controls 66% of Tata Sons, giving it dominant influence over group decisions
- Tata Group’s total market capitalization stands at $368 billion
- The group comprises 26 listed companies, including TCS, Tata Motors, and Titan
- Tata Sons is the principal investment holding company and promoter of Tata firms
- The boardroom rift has triggered at least two high-level government meetings in October 2025
- Tata Sons’ Chairman N. Chandrasekaran has led the group since 2017, following the ouster of Cyrus Mistry
- Tata Trusts’ internal governance has been under scrutiny since 2016, when Mistry’s removal sparked legal battles

What lies ahead

As the Tata Trusts board convenes for a crucial meeting, the outcome could reshape the leadership structure of India’s most iconic business house. Investors, employees, and policymakers are watching closely as the group navigates one of its most sensitive transitions in recent history.

Sources: Reuters, Mint, Financial Express, Hindustan Times, Maritime Gateway