Leading NRI industrialist and philanthropist Lord Swraj Paul passed away in London on Thursday evening at the age of 94.Lord Paul, founder of the UK-based Caparo Group of industries, had been hospitalised recently and died surrounded by members of his family. Born in Jalandhar, Lord Paul moved to the UK in 1966 seeking treatment for his daughter Ambika, who later died of leukaemia. He went on to establish the Caparo Group, which expanded into a global enterprise with interests in steel, engineering and property.Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled his death in a post on X. “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,” he wrote. Lord Paul was made a life peer in 1996 and served actively in the House of Lords, contributing to committees on trade, education and entrepreneurship. He was known for his efforts to strengthen Indo-British relations and for his philanthropic work in education and healthcare. He also played a key role in saving the London Zoo when it faced closure, supporting its children’s section and other initiatives. Lord Paul rose to become one of Britain’s richest Asians and remained a prominent figure in business, politics and philanthropy for decades.
