HAL observed its 85th Foundation Day here today, the first after achieving the Maharatna status with a number of former CMDs, Directors, CEOs, and others participating in a celebration that focused on the way forward and on how to sustain the growth.  The chief guest Mr. Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, MP, in his message traced the history of the company since its foundation by Walchand Hirachand in 1940 and urged HAL to maintain the momentum and carry on the legacy of excellence in developing the defence ecosystem of the country. A commemorative book titled ‘Flights of Inspiration, HAL’s Maharatna Story’ was released on the occasion. Dr D K Sunil, CMD, HAL gave a brief presentation on HAL’s future ambitions that would propel HAL to the global stage through strategic internal transformation initiatives. Some of these included tech- focused, people centric programs, achieving operational excellence through restructuring of company modules and strengthening exports. The former CMDs besides sharing interesting vignettes of their times addressed the gathering and hailed HAL’s rise over the years. They called upon employees to be mindful of challenges ahead, opportunities in the future and be prepared to meet the demands of armed forces in an efficient and time bound manner. A B Pradhan, Director (HR) proposed a vote of thanks.