NEW DELHI, November 7: Anil Moti is an entrepreneur by instinct. After completing his electrical engineering, Moti started his career in 1982 by entering into the construction business with an investment of Rs 29,000. Once he started, he did not turn back. Soon he set up India's first continuous lube oil recovery plant. Claims Moti: "It was a turnkey project well executed and praised by all."

After completing the project, Moti joined hands in the electrification of Jawahar Tunnel-the longest tunnel in Asia-which too turned out to be a successful one. In his eight years of continuous stay in Srinagar, Moti became the most sought after businessman of Srinagar.

But suddenly one fine morning in December, 1990, militancy forced Moti to pack up his operations from Srinagar.

Moti recalls how 14 members of his family had to stay in one room in Jammu. Leaving his family there, Moti went to Ladakh to do trading in electrical instruments.

On look-out for fresh turnkey projects, Moti went to Zambia. "I was not able to break the ice there. But, I did not lose my heart. I kept trying, harder."Finally, he decided to come down to Delhi. At that point, he had burnt up all his savings. He was left with only Rs 3,000 and a Maruti car. There was an advertisement of Shree Cements for a dealer. "I approached and convinced them. They too extended their support, respecting the experience I had. First, they gave me small targets and then slowly increased them. I am really thankful for the support extended by my principal," says an enthusiastic Moti.

Slowly, Moti started growing along with Shree Cements.In 1992, Moti diversified into a different line with the help of his friend. and started Signature Leather. They brought out a wide range of leather products for the up-market. Here too success greeted him within a short span of four years.

Today, Moti's turnover is touching Rs 30 crore from Uptime Electrical Co. alone. His Signature Leather is roping in another Rs 2 crore.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.