Raminder Singh Ranger, Baron Ranger, is a distinguished British-Indian businessman and Conservative politician. Founder of the multinational consumer goods company Sun Mark, Lord Ranger has been a member of the House of Lords since 2019.

Born in Gujranwala just before the partition of India, Lord Ranger faced profound early hardships. His father, an outspoken opponent of partition, was assassinated before his birth. His family relocated to Patiala, where his widowed mother raised him along with seven siblings. After completing his BA from Chandigarh, Lord Ranger moved to the UK in 1971 to study law but had to abandon his studies due to financial challenges. From humble beginnings — working at KFC and Currys — he built a remarkable business empire, founding Sea, Air and Land Forwarding in 1987 and Sun Mark in 1995. His companies have earned multiple Queen’s Awards for export excellence. A major Conservative Party donor, Lord Ranger has contributed over £1.5 million and served as co-chairman of Conservative Friends of India.

During his recent visit to India to honour his father Shaheed Nanak Singh, Lord Ranger spoke with Prashant Tewari. The ceremony was chaired by Union Cabinet Minister Mr Hardeep Singh Puri. An Exclusive Conversation with Lord Ranger

Prashant Tewari: Lord Ranger, it’s an honour to have you with us. To begin, how do you view the evolving role of the NRI community in India’s nation-building journey?

Lord Ranger: Thank you, Prashant. It’s a pleasure. The NRI community has always been vital to India’s progress, but today, our role is more strategic. Beyond remittances and real estate, we build global bridges and shape perceptions of India abroad. As India’s stature grows, our responsibility as unofficial ambassadors has increased significantly.

Prashant Tewari: You’ve often championed NRI engagement. What makes this diaspora so influential?

Lord Ranger: It’s a combination of education, enterprise, and emotion. NRIs are among the most educated, industrious communities globally. We carry values of hard work, respect for knowledge, and a deep-rooted connection to Bharat. Across fields like technology, healthcare, and business, we are actively contributing to India’s innovation and growth story.

Prashant Tewari: India’s global ascent is evident. How do you perceive Bharat’s position today?

Lord Ranger: India has become a beacon of resilience and leadership. Whether supplying vaccines to over 100 countries during the pandemic or taking bold stands at global summits, India today speaks with unmatched confidence. The G20 presidency was a landmark moment, showcasing Bharat’s blend of ancient wisdom and modern innovation.

Prashant Tewari: What steps can further strengthen NRI engagement in India's growth?

Lord Ranger: The government’s initiatives like Pravasi Bharatiya Divas are commendable. However, more can be done — establishing NRI think tanks, involving diaspora leaders in policymaking, and simplifying investment procedures. NRIs are eager to contribute; the framework must make it easier and more effective.

Prashant Tewari: Finally, what message would you like to give young Indians around the world?

Lord Ranger: Believe in Bharat. We are at the threshold of extraordinary achievements. With our youthful population, digital edge, and rich cultural heritage, India is poised to lead the world. Whether you are in Mumbai or Melbourne, contribute your skills and values. Nation-building is a shared duty — embrace it wholeheartedly.

Prashant Tewari: Thank you, Lord Ranger, for your inspiring insights.

Raminder Singh Ranger, Baron Ranger, is a distinguished British-Indian businessman and Conservative politician. Founder of the multinational consumer goods company Sun Mark, Lord Ranger has been a member of the House of Lords since 2019.

Born in Gujranwala just before the partition of India, Lord Ranger faced profound early hardships. His father, an outspoken opponent of partition, was assassinated before his birth. His family relocated to Patiala, where his widowed mother raised him along with seven siblings. After completing his BA from Chandigarh, Lord Ranger moved to the UK in 1971 to study law but had to abandon his studies due to financial challenges. From humble beginnings — working at KFC and Currys — he built a remarkable business empire, founding Sea, Air and Land Forwarding in 1987 and Sun Mark in 1995. His companies have earned multiple Queen’s Awards for export excellence. A major Conservative Party donor, Lord Ranger has contributed over £1.5 million and served as co-chairman of Conservative Friends of India.

During his recent visit to India to honour his father Shaheed Nanak Singh, Lord Ranger spoke with Prashant Tewari. The ceremony was chaired by Union Cabinet Minister Mr Hardeep Singh Puri. An Exclusive Conversation with Lord Ranger

Prashant Tewari: Lord Ranger, it’s an honour to have you with us. To begin, how do you view the evolving role of the NRI community in India’s nation-building journey?

Lord Ranger: Thank you, Prashant. It’s a pleasure. The NRI community has always been vital to India’s progress, but today, our role is more strategic. Beyond remittances and real estate, we build global bridges and shape perceptions of India abroad. As India’s stature grows, our responsibility as unofficial ambassadors has increased significantly.

Prashant Tewari: You’ve often championed NRI engagement. What makes this diaspora so influential?

Lord Ranger: It’s a combination of education, enterprise, and emotion. NRIs are among the most educated, industrious communities globally. We carry values of hard work, respect for knowledge, and a deep-rooted connection to Bharat. Across fields like technology, healthcare, and business, we are actively contributing to India’s innovation and growth story.

Prashant Tewari: India’s global ascent is evident. How do you perceive Bharat’s position today?

Lord Ranger: India has become a beacon of resilience and leadership. Whether supplying vaccines to over 100 countries during the pandemic or taking bold stands at global summits, India today speaks with unmatched confidence. The G20 presidency was a landmark moment, showcasing Bharat’s blend of ancient wisdom and modern innovation.

Prashant Tewari: What steps can further strengthen NRI engagement in India's growth?

Lord Ranger: The government’s initiatives like Pravasi Bharatiya Divas are commendable. However, more can be done — establishing NRI think tanks, involving diaspora leaders in policymaking, and simplifying investment procedures. NRIs are eager to contribute; the framework must make it easier and more effective.

Prashant Tewari: Finally, what message would you like to give young Indians around the world?

Lord Ranger: Believe in Bharat. We are at the threshold of extraordinary achievements. With our youthful population, digital edge, and rich cultural heritage, India is poised to lead the world. Whether you are in Mumbai or Melbourne, contribute your skills and values. Nation-building is a shared duty — embrace it wholeheartedly.

Prashant Tewari: Thank you, Lord Ranger, for your inspiring insights.