Shashi Ruia joins Branson to fund <b>The Elders</b>

Essar Group chairman Shashi Ruia has joined entrepreneur Richard Branson and activist Peter Gabriel to fund a group of world leaders - The Elders - who will contribute their wisdom to tackle some of the world's toughest problems.

The Group of Elders include world leaders like Desmond Tutu, former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, Former US President Jimmy Carter, Li Zhaoxing, Mary Robinson, Bangladeshi economist Muhammad Yunus, Graca Machel, Gro Harlem Brundtland and social activist and founder of Self Employed Women's Association Ela Bhatt.

Former South African President Nelson Mandela, Graca Machel and Desmond Tutu have convened the group of leaders to contribute their wisdom, independent leadership and integrity to tackle the challenges faced by people all over the world, The Elders said in a statement.

The Elders would be independently funded by a group of founders including Branson, Gabriel, Shashi Ruia, Ray Chambers, Micheal Chambers, Bridgeway Foundation, Pam Omidyar and The United Nations Foundation.

"The group can speak freely and boldly, working both publicly and behind the scenes on whatever actions need to be taken. Together, we will work to support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict and inspire hope where there is despair," Mandela said while announcing the formation of the group.

Ela Bhatt, a former Rajya Sabha member and winner of the Ramon Magsaysay Award, said: "Constructive work is integral for building a non-violent, peaceful society. Violence cannot contain freedom. Freedom springs from constructive work."