I had the privilege of meeting Mr Ratan Tata during the MMA Amalgamation Business Leadership Awards Function, where we had an insightful interaction prior to the event. Today, many believe that wealth is attainable, but class is something one is born into. Mr Ratan Tata experienced the modern evolution of class in India, exemplifying how character and integrity transcend mere wealth. He inspired by example, creating a legacy that will be cherished by his successors and the institutions he built. Mr Tata’s contributions have secured his place in the Indian pantheon of industry and entrepreneurship, marking a life filled with accomplishments and recognitions. As he completes his journey on this planet, he leaves behind a lasting footprint that will be remembered with great pride and countless memories for generations to come.
Mr Tata has been a tremendous source of support and inspiration for many young management professionals and students.
In tribute to this legendary figure, we are privileged to present in this issue an article on his inspiring conversation about “The India That I Would Like to See,” held during the Awards function. We’ve also included an embedded video of this memorable event. Please read on and watch the video to find inspiration in his words.
MMA All-India Management Students’ Convention
To inspire and equip management students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to lead and innovate in a rapidly evolving digital world, this year’s MMA All-India Management Students Convention 2024 will focus on the theme, “What Does It Take to Jumpstart a Successful Career?”
The convention aims to foster a deeper understanding of the interplay between exponential technologies, human-centric design, and ethical leadership to drive sustainable and impactful growth.
Mr Sendhil Naathan, Convention Chairman, along with other members of the Convention Committee, has put in tremendous effort not only in conceptualizing the theme but also in identifying a galaxy of eminent speakers to address the students during the event. Our sincere thanks go to Mr S.V. Nathan, CEO & Co-Founder of Visara Human Capital Consulting Pvt Ltd, for being the knowledge partner and for conceptualizing this outstanding convention.
I would also like to extend my gratitude to the management students and their respective B-schools for their overwhelming response to our competitions, particularly “Chanakya – The Mastermind,” which attracted over 5,500 management students from across India.
We are delighted to present this special issue of digital Business Mandate in conjunction with the convention, featuring interesting and thought-provoking articles, along with embedded videos.
A distinguished line-up of speakers will share their insights on the challenges and opportunities facing management students today. A significant number of students will be participating in the convention both online and offline. I convey my sincere wishes to all delegates and wish them the very best in their future endeavours.
CavinKare‐MMA ChinniKrishnan Innovation Award 2024
Mr Chinnikrishnan pioneered the “Sachet Revolution,” believing that what the affluent enjoy should also be accessible to the common man. In a fitting tribute to his legacy, the CavinKare-MMA ChinniKrishnan Innovation Awards celebrate innovation in India. The response to the award has been overwhelming, with over 320 nominations from innovators across the country.
The grand award ceremony was held on September 14, 2024, at the auditorium of IIT Madras Research Park, honoring three exceptional innovators who received the CavinKare-MMA Chinnikrishnan Awards for 2024. These awardees now shine as the jewels in the crown of the Chinnikrishnan Innovation Award. In today’s world, there is an undeniable need for a steadfast focus on innovation to ensure that products and services are accessible to all. We invite you to join us in our mission to promote innovation.
Ms Prabha Narasimhan, Managing Director of Colgate-Palmolive India, was the Chief Guest at the award ceremony. Her thought-provoking address on innovation served as an inspiration, igniting the creative thought processes of all participants.
I am delighted to present an article in this issue featuring Ms Prabha Narasimhan’s address, along with an embedded video. Read on and get enriched.
Ecological Challenges & Balanced Development
The recent landslides in Wayanad highlight significant failures at multiple levels to address the well-known ecological vulnerabilities in the region. The unregulated tourist boom has played a considerable role in this disaster. This issue warrants serious attention, as similar wreckage is occurring across several tourist hotspots in the country.
To preserve hill stations like Wayanad, it is crucial to limit construction and mining activities, as well as to regulate tourism. Development must not come at the expense of the environment. A cooperative commitment from both the Union Government and the states is vital for the protection and monitoring of ecologically sensitive areas to reduce environmental risks.
The timely actions of the armed forces, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and civil service organizations in the rescue operations were commendable. Their efforts ensured the saving of lives and the swift restoration of normalcy.
The insights shared by Lt. Gen. K.S. Brar, AVSM, General Officer Commanding Dakshin Bharat Area, regarding the timely rescue operations in Wayanad are thought-provoking and inspiring. They also reflect the state of preparedness of the Indian Armed Forces in times of civil emergency.
In this issue, I am pleased to present an article on the presentation, “Peace-Time Challenges: Army’s Wayanad Experience,” organized by MMA. Please read on, and don’t miss the opportunity to click and watch the video.
Internship Programs
The Prime Minister’s Internship Program is a win-win for both Indian industry and job seekers. Skill development is essential for fostering rapid socio-economic growth in the country. Disruptive changes and transformations at all levels are reshaping the work landscape, underscoring the importance of building a skilled ecosystem.
At MMA, we have been actively collaborating with our members to identify and address skill gaps across various domains. We offer a range of programs and internships designed to enhance skills relevant to today’s job market. Internships serve as a vital bridge between academic knowledge and real-world application, significantly improving the employability of young aspirants.
The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme (PMIS), announced in the 2024 Union Budget, is a transformative effort aimed at addressing youth employment and skills gaps in India.
I encourage young leaders to register on the portals to explore internship opportunities with Indian industry, which can kick-start their careers and equip them with the skills needed to thrive professionally.
In this context, MMA also offers internships for management students to work on major MMA events, providing them with invaluable first-hand experience.
Connecting Communities
India stands on the brink of a transformative phase in its industrial history, with a roadmap laid out for 2047. The vision of India@2047 aims to establish India as a global manufacturing hub while ensuring that the economy grows sustainably, including opportunities in rural areas. The government is enthusiastic about leveraging modern technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability. The goal is to empower consumers with the tools they need to make responsible choices.
In this context, I am delighted to present an article in this issue on the address by Mr Sridhar Vembu, Founder and CEO, Zoho Corporation on the theme “Digital Transformation: Opportunities in Rural Area” to the members of MMA in Namakkal. Please read on and watch the video for insights into his vision and contributions.
Be Cautious; Steer Clear
A recent report indicates that the odds of transitioning into the bracket of developed countries are slim. Since 1990, only 34 countries have successfully moved from middle to high income, and they collectively house just 250 million people. Many economies that perform well often find themselves stuck at a per capita income level of $4,000 to $7,000.
To avoid this trap, experts recommend that India pursue greater economic freedom, provide equal opportunities for women, and improve the quality of education. It will be challenging to progress if too many of our citizens are left behind in our quest for prosperity. The key puzzle we need to solve is how to adopt a more equitable path without stalling growth.
While India may be the world’s fastest-growing major economy, it’s equally true that the top-line growth figures often mask more than they reveal. It is essential to dig deeper and ensure that our growth is inclusive and sustainable for all.
The Need for Agility
In today’s unpredictable business landscape, success hinges on cultivating agility, innovation, and collaboration. Many organizations are moving away from rigid operational models in favour of more fluid approaches. By adopting a flat structure instead of traditional hierarchical models, we create greater opportunities for participation and collaboration at all levels.
In this dynamic environment, valuing adaptability and a proactive mindset is essential, often outweighing the perceived security of monotonous roles. By fostering a flexible and inclusive work culture, we empower our teams to innovate and excel.
In this regard, a lecture organized by MMA on the theme “Straight Lines to Great Horizons: Endless Possibilities,” by Lt Gen A. Arun (Retd), PVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, of the Indian Army on September 18, 2024, is particularly relevant. I am pleased to present an article on this lecture, along with an embedded video. Read on and get inspired.
As always, we would be happy to hear your views, comments and suggestions.
Happy reading!
