Lord Swraj Paul, a well-known NRI industrialist, philanthropist, and founder of the Caparo Group, has passed away at the age of 94.
His death has marked the end of a remarkable journey that was spread in sectors like business, public service, and philanthropy across both India and the United Kingdom.
PM Modi expresses condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over his demise, he highlighted Paul’s lifelong contributions. In a post on X, the Prime Minister recalled his interactions with Paul and praised his efforts to strengthen India-UK ties. “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Swaraj Paul Ji. His contributions to industry, philanthropy and public service in the UK, and his unwavering support for closer ties with India will always be remembered. I fondly recall our many interactions. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” PM Modi wrote on his X (formerly twitter).
Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Swaraj Paul Ji. His contributions to industry, philanthropy and public service in the UK, and his unwavering support for closer ties with India will always be remembered. I fondly recall our many interactions. Condolences to his family and… pic.twitter.com/6G7D4gDDD1
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 22, 2025
Paul’s Journey of Business and Philanthropy
Born in Jalandhar in 1931, Swraj Paul moved to the United Kingdom and established the Caparo Group in 1968.
Under his leadership, the group grew into a significant business entity with interests in steel, engineering, and related sectors. His success in business was matched by his passion for philanthropy and public service.
In recognition of his achievements, the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Bhushan in 1983, one of the country’s highest civilian awards.
(Also Read: PM Modi Pays Tributes To Rajiv Gandhi On His 81st Birth Anniversary)
Beyond business, Paul had worked to build stronger ties between India and Britain.
In 1975, he had founded the Indo-British Association to promote better understanding and cooperation between the two nations, and he served as its Chairman.
Paul’s influence had also reflected the growing strength of the Indian diaspora in the UK. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian community in Britain is one of the largest ethnic groups, with nearly 1.9 million people as per the 2021 Census.
Indians make up around 2.6 percent of the UK’s population of 68 million.
The diaspora has also contributed significantly to the British economy, with more than 65,000 businesses owned by people of Indian origin, according to a report by Grant Thornton and FICCI.
Lord Swraj Paul’s life has symbolised the bond between India and the UK, and his legacy will continue through his business ventures and charitable initiatives.