GM Rao a prominent Indian billionaire and founder of the GMR Group has built a vast business empire from humble beginnings. With a real-time net worth of $3.2 billion (Rs 27477 crore) according to Forbes Rao is one of India’s wealthiest individuals and a key figure in the country’s infrastructure sector. His company GMR Airports Infrastructure is a listed entity and a major player in airport operations. The GMR Group manages three airports in India: Delhi Hyderabad and Goa. Additionally it operates two international airports in the Philippines and Indonesia. Expanding its role in aviation the group launched the GMR School of Aviation in Hyderabad in collaboration with European aircraft manufacturer Airbus in January 2024. GM Rao Humble Beginnings  Now 74 Rao comes from a small town in Andhra Pradesh. Before India’s economic liberalization he pursued numerous business opportunities starting with a single jute mill in 1978. Over the years he ventured into 28 different businesses showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. However following economic reforms in 1994 Rao shifted to a strategy-driven approach focusing on core infrastructure sectors. This pivot resulted in the consolidation of the GMR Group as a powerhouse in the infrastructure domain. Strategic Investments and Debt Reduction In recent years the GMR Group secured a significant Rs 6300 crore investment from Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). This funding was aimed at reducing the debt of the promoter group entity GMR Enterprises Pvt Ltd (GEPL). The announcement of this deal came in October last year signaling the group’s strong financial planning and focus on growth. From his early days as a jute mill owner to becoming an airport tycoon GM Rao’s journey reflects a relentless pursuit of opportunities and a visionary approach to infrastructure development solidifying his legacy as one of India’s leading entrepreneurs.