As we draw the curtain on yet another significant financial year at MMA, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our members for your steadfast support and engagement. It is your continued involvement that has enabled us to achieve this milestone of all-round excellence. During the year, several new initiatives were introduced with a focus on enhancing managerial capabilities and supporting members in their pursuit of professional excellence.
At the same time, the global environment remains deeply uncertain and challenging. Ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the Iran conflict, continue to cast a long shadow over the global economy. Disruptions in critical trade routes such as the Strait of Hormuz have impacted energy flows, leading to heightened supply and price risks for countries like India. Several sectors, including textiles, are already feeling the strain due to rising logistics costs and raw material shortages during crucial demand cycles.
Even as discussions around ceasefire continue, uncertainty persists, making it difficult for businesses to anticipate the direction of global developments. The economic repercussions—both direct and indirect—are likely to be felt across industries, underscoring the importance of resilience, adaptability, and strategic foresight.
In this context, MMA has remained committed to bringing timely and relevant perspectives to its members. We recently organised a thought-provoking session on “Weathering the Trumpstorm: Business Strategy in a Tariff-First World” by Ambassador Ajay Bisaria, IFS (Retd), Strategic Consultant, Author, and Commentator on International Affairs. I am pleased to present an article on this session in the current issue, along with an embedded video, offering valuable insights into navigating these turbulent times.
I invite you to read on and reflect on the perspectives shared, as we collectively prepare to navigate the evolving global landscape with informed strategy and resilience.
The CavinKare–MMA ChinniKrishnan Awards 2026
Innovation has long been the cornerstone of progress, and platforms that nurture and celebrate it are vital to building a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. The CavinKare–MMA ChinniKrishnan Innovation & Great Ideas Awards stand as a powerful testament to this belief. Since 2011, this initiative has consistently recognised enterprises that challenge convention, create meaningful societal impact, and demonstrate the courage to think differently.
Instituted in memory of Late Shri R. ChinniKrishnan, whose pioneering “sachet revolution” democratised access to essential products, the awards embody a philosophy that innovation must ultimately serve society at large. As we mark the 15th edition, the significance of this initiative is even more pronounced—encouraging entrepreneurs to innovate with purpose, inclusivity, and scalability.
In an evolving landscape where ideas are the currency of the future, it is imperative that we widen the funnel of participation. I would urge all our members to actively disseminate information about these awards across their professional networks—reaching out to innovators, start-ups, incubators, industry bodies, research institutions, and educational establishments across India. Your outreach can play a crucial role in bringing forward deserving innovators and ideators who merit national recognition on this prestigious platform.
For detailed information on eligibility, guidelines, and the nomination process for both the Innovation and Great Ideas categories, members are requested to access the brochure and share applications through the official link:
A key highlight of this year’s edition is the introduction of the “Great Ideas Award”—a forward-looking category that recognises originality, foresight, and problem-solving even at the conceptual or early stages. This initiative reinforces a powerful message: every breakthrough innovation begins as a simple yet compelling idea. By extending recognition beyond proven innovations to promising ideas, CavinKare and MMA seek to inspire students, researchers, professionals, and aspiring entrepreneurs to think boldly and share their vision for the future.
The CavinKare–MMA ChinniKrishnan Awards are not merely a recognition platform—they represent a movement to inspire, mentor, and elevate innovation in India. As we look ahead, I invite each one of you to contribute actively to this mission—by encouraging participation, identifying talent, and championing ideas that have the potential to transform industries and improve lives.
Let us collectively discover, support, and celebrate the innovators and ideas that will shape tomorrow.
MMA Award for Managerial Excellence 2026
The MMA Award for Managerial Excellence (MAME), instituted in 2002, reflects MMA’s enduring commitment to promoting sound management practices, leadership excellence, and organisational performance across sectors. Over the years, the award has emerged as a prestigious benchmark, recognising organisations that excel not only in outcomes, but in the quality of managerial thinking, strategic direction, and execution.
The 2026 edition marks a significant milestone—the Silver Jubilee year of the MAME Awards—celebrating 25 years of sustained recognition of managerial excellence and its impactful contribution to strengthening organisational capabilities across the region.
In today’s dynamic business environment, organisations that align vision with execution, respond with agility, and deliver sustainable growth stand out as true exemplars of managerial excellence. The MAME Awards seek to recognise such organisations across Manufacturing, Services, SME, and Educational sectors, thereby creating role models for the wider business community.
As we commence this landmark edition, I urge all our members to actively identify organisations within their networks that are performing exceptionally well in these four categories and nominate them for the awards. Your recommendations will enable MMA to connect with these organisations and take the evaluation process forward, ensuring that deserving institutions receive due recognition.
Members are also requested to refer to the detailed award brochure and nomination guidelines available here:
https://mmachennai.wixsite.com/website
The MAME Awards are not merely about recognition—they are about showcasing excellence, inspiring others, and elevating management standards across the region.
Let us come together to identify and honour those who set benchmarks in managerial excellence.
A Welcome Move by RBI to Safeguard India’s Digital Payments Ecosystem
With effect from 1 April 2026, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has mandated that all digital payments be authenticated using at least two independent factors. This important move seeks to address vulnerabilities in systems that rely on a single layer of verification and aims to significantly reduce risks arising from compromised credentials. Notably, RBI data indicates that bank frauds surged to ₹36,014 crore in FY 2024–25, marking a sharp 194% increase in value over the previous year.
The new regulations apply across digital payment platforms, reinforcing the need for robust security protocols. Banks will be held accountable for compliance, thereby strengthening responsibility within the financial system. This initiative represents a decisive step towards tightening the digital payments framework and fostering greater trust among users.
As India continues its rapid transition towards a digitally driven economy, such proactive regulatory measures are essential to ensure safety, resilience, and sustained growth. By enhancing security and accountability, the RBI has taken a timely step in reinforcing confidence in the digital payments ecosystem and enabling its wider adoption.
Elections 2026 – A Call to Conscience
The announcement of elections to five legislative assemblies, including Tamil Nadu, once again underscores the scale and strength of India’s democratic process. Conducting elections across over 2.19 lakh polling stations in four states and one union territory is a monumental task—even for a nation with over 75 years of electoral experience.
Consider the dedication involved: polling officials trekking for hours through the challenging terrain of the Varusanadu hills in Tamil Nadu’s Theni district to serve just five electors at the Vellimalai polling station. Such examples reflect the extraordinary commitment of the Election Commission and its teams to uphold every citizen’s right to vote.
In the face of such effort, the responsibility of the voter becomes paramount. The right to vote is not merely a privilege—it is a sacred duty. Exercising this right with awareness, integrity, and a sense of responsibility is essential to preserving the spirit of our Constitution. Falling prey to short-term promises diminishes the true power of the vote and weakens the foundations of democracy.
Let this election be a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to democratic values and a tribute to the tireless efforts of those who make this process possible.
Do exercise your franchise—thoughtfully and without fail.
Back to Books: Rediscovering the Power of Reading
In an era often defined by digital fatigue and fast-paced lifestyles, an encouraging trend is emerging—the revival of reading. Bookstores are witnessing renewed interest, and the publishing industry is experiencing a notable upswing, driven by younger audiences, growing global recognition of Indian authors, and a fresh enthusiasm for print books.
At MMA, this resurgence finds meaningful expression through our Read & Grow series, which has steadily grown in popularity. This initiative continues to attract a diverse audience, including students and professionals, both online and offline, fostering a culture of continuous learning and thoughtful engagement.
It is heartening to see students and members alike rediscover the simple yet profound joy of reading—the act of turning a page, reflecting, and growing. This renewed connection with books is not merely nostalgic; it is a powerful reminder that knowledge, perspective, and leadership are deeply rooted in the habit of reading.
I am pleased to share access to over fifty sessions from our Read & Grow series and encourage you to explore these enriching discussions. May they inspire you to cultivate the habit of reading and lifelong learning. After all, to be a great leader, one must first be a great reader.
Living with AI: Preparing for an Intelligent Future
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution is no longer a distant possibility—it is an inevitable reality that is reshaping every aspect of human life. Unlike earlier technological shifts, AI has a pervasive influence across domains—be it healthcare, law, business, education, or governance. This makes it imperative for individuals and organisations alike to understand, adapt, and prepare for this profound transformation.
In this context, MMA, in association with Pond’s Veterans, is organising the V. Narayanan (Pond’s) Memorial Endowment Lecture on “The ‘I’ in AI: Empowering Individuals in an Intelligent Age” by Mr B Santhanam, Former CEO, Asia Pacific & India and Chairman, Saint-Gobain India, at 6.00 pm on Thursday, 9 April 2026 at the MMA Management Center. A live streaming link is also made available, and I request all members to participate and gain valuable insights into how individuals can remain relevant and empowered in this evolving landscape.
I am also pleased to present in this issue an engaging article on the session “AI – For the Rest of Us: An Illustrated Introduction” by Mr. Sairam Sundaresan, AI Engineering Leader and author, held at MMA on 12 February 2026. The article, along with the embedded video, offers a simplified and practical perspective on AI for a wider audience.
Every new technology may appear overwhelming at first, but with the right understanding and mindset, it becomes an enabler of growth and opportunity. AI is no different.
Let us embrace this change, learn continuously, and position ourselves to thrive in the age of intelligent technologies.
Mental Health Matters: Building Resilient Individuals and Organisations
Conversations around mental health are more prominent today than ever before. Encouragingly, organisations are beginning to recognise the importance of employee well-being. When individuals do not feel valued or supported, it impacts not only their personal well-being but also their engagement and commitment at work.
Mental health is not merely an individual concern—it is deeply influenced by the systems we are part of, including corporate, educational, social, and economic environments. Unless we address these underlying drivers of stress and imbalance, efforts to promote well-being will have limited and short-lived impact.
At MMA, we continue to facilitate meaningful conversations and initiatives that support personal and professional growth. Our Mentor–Mentee programme is a timely initiative that enables individuals to reflect, learn, and benchmark themselves in a supportive environment. Equally important is the need to cultivate balance in our lives—creating moments of stillness amidst constant activity. In this context, reading remains a powerful and enduring habit that nurtures clarity, perspective, and inner strength.
Great leaders understand that organisational success is built on a foundation of empathy, patience, integrity, and a genuine human approach. An exemplary role model is Mr Ratan Tata, Former Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, whose leadership continues to inspire generations. In this issue, we are pleased to feature an insightful article on the book “Doing the Right Thing: Learnings from Ratan Tata” by Mr Harish Bhat. Through compelling anecdotes, the book highlights the values and leadership qualities that contribute to building not just successful organisations, but truly meaningful and humane workplaces.
Let us strive to create environments where people feel valued, supported, and inspired—because strong organisations are built on the well-being of their people.
As always, we would be happy to hear your views, comments and suggestions.
Happy Reading!!
