T. S. Narayanaswami

T. S. Narayanaswami, popularly known as TSN or Abboy, was born on 11 November 1911. He was a pioneering industrialist whose vision and enterprise played a significant role in the industrial development of South India.

Early Career

Narayanaswami began his professional career in the early 1930s as a junior officer at the Indo-Commercial Bank. His industrious nature, attention to detail, and disciplined approach quickly distinguished him. The experience he gained in the banking sector laid a strong foundation and provided him with the confidence to venture into entrepreneurship.

Industrial Entrepreneurship

In 1946, Narayanaswami co-founded The India Cements Limited at Talayathu, a small hamlet in the Tirunelveli District, along with S. N. N. Sankaralinga Iyer and K. Lakshmanan. The company rapidly grew to become one of the leading cement manufacturers in South India.

Encouraged by this success, the group diversified into several other industries. These ventures included the establishment of:

• Madras Aluminium Company Limited (MALCO)
• South India Shipping Corporation (SISCO)
• Chemicals and Plastics India Limited (Chemplast)

The imagination, foresight, and initiative of T. S. Narayanaswami were the driving forces behind these enterprises.

Public Service and Educational Support

Beyond his industrial achievements, Narayanaswami was deeply involved in social causes and actively supported technical education. His counsel was widely respected and sought after by both public and private sector organizations.

He held several prominent positions, including:

• Chairman, Madras Industrial Investment Corporation
• President, Hindustan Chamber of Commerce
• Member, Executive Committee of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)

Recognition and Legacy

In 1964, Narayanaswami was appointed Sheriff of Madras, an honour that acknowledged his stature in social and cultural spheres and his outstanding contribution to the industrial growth of the State.

T. S. Narayanaswami passed away on 14 February 1968, leaving behind a lasting legacy of entrepreneurship, leadership, and public service.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

In recognition of his remarkable contribution to Indian industry and society, India Post has issued a Commemorative Postage Stamp in honour of T. S. Narayanaswami.