Schneider Electric India Chief receives highest French award

This award is given in recognition of outstanding contributions to French society over the course of a minimum of 20 years of one’s professional career.

Anil Chaudhry, MD, Schneider Electric India, has been conferred with France’s highest civilian award, the Legion of Honour. The award was conferred upon Chaudhry by Ambassador of France to India, H.E. François Richier, during a ceremony held on Monday, April 18, at the Residence of France, New Delhi. Along with the Ambassador, officers of French Embassy, administration officials, members of India Inc. and Chaudhry’s family members were present at the ceremony.

The distinguished award, Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour), was presented to Anil Chaudhry for his significant and commendable contribution towards strengthening Indo-French relations through his association with French organizations since the beginning of his career. Working for over three decades for French business interest in India and in the world, Chaudhry has created a significant body of work in the field of infrastructural development, climate change, Indo French economic relations, access to energy and skill development.

Receiving the award Anil Chaudhry said, “It is with great honor that I receive this profound recognition given to me by the French Embassy today. The distinguished history of this award, and its long list of eminent awardees leave me humbled and tremendously inspired to live up to the noble principles this award represents.” He further added “I take this opportunity to thank all the people in my life, without whom this achievement may not have been possible. A special thanks to my wife Suman, My daughters, my parents, extended family, friends and my entire Schneider Electric team, business partners as well as colleagues from previous organizations for their constant support at all times. I consider this award as a responsibility given to me to vanguard our countries’ great alliance and tirelessly work towards further strengthen this Indo French alliance in all possible ways.”

Presenting the award, Ambassador François Richier said, “I am truly delighted to bestow this award on Anil Chaudhry, whose remarkable acumen and vision has contributed significantly to boosting French business in India in areas essential for a country’s economic development. As the helmsman of Schneider, he has long been promoting “Make in India” and skill development – two major initiatives outlined by the Indian government – thus forging enduring ties between France and India.”