Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in the Era of Sustainability
Tiruchirappalli (India CSR): On August 29, 2024, the Indian Institute of Management Tiruchirappalli successfully hosted the second episode of its Leadership Conclave, ‘Daksha.’ The theme of this year’s conclave is “Leadership Renaissance: Embracing Change, Seizing Opportunities,” with Episode 2 focusing on the critical topic of sustainability under the theme “Leadership in the Era of Sustainable Transformation: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities.”
The event provided a platform for profound discussions on the evolving role of leadership in promoting sustainability, reinforcing IIM Tiruchirappalli’s commitment to preparing future leaders for the complexities of modern business landscapes.
The Event Unfolds: A Thoughtful Beginning
The event commenced with an invocation and the traditional lighting of the lamp, marking the start of a day dedicated to exploring sustainability in leadership. Prof. Abhishek Totawar, Chairperson of Placements at IIM Tiruchirappalli, welcomed the esteemed guests, setting the tone for an intellectually stimulating session.
Welcoming Words from the Dean
Prof. Gopal V, Dean of Academics at IIM Tiruchirappalli, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the indispensable role of sustainability in today’s business world. He highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability into the curriculum of business schools to equip future managers with the skills needed to balance profitability with environmental and social responsibility. Prof. Gopal also took pride in sharing the sustainable practices adopted on the IIM Tiruchirappalli campus, including the largest solar plant among all IIMs and the highest tree density of any IIM. His words resonated with the audience, underlining that sustainable practices are no longer optional but essential for long-term success in any business.
Insights from the Panel: Diverse Perspectives on Sustainability
The panel discussion was the highlight of the event, featuring distinguished speakers who brought a wealth of experience in sustainability.
Abhishek Ranjan: A leader in ESG and CSR
Abhishek Ranjan, Sr. Director and Global Head of ESG at Brillio, shared his visionary leadership in CSR and ESG initiatives. Known for his role in achieving carbon neutrality at Brillio, Ranjan emphasized the need for businesses to embrace sustainability not just as a goal but as a core operational principle. He also discussed the “Brillio Bringing Smiles” program, which aims to uplift one million underserved children, showcasing how CSR initiatives can create tangible social impacts.
Dhaarini Srinivasan: Championing Sustainability in HR
Dhaarini Srinivasan, Global Sustainability Lead at VDart, brought a unique perspective to the panel with her extensive international experience in HR and sustainability. She stressed the importance of aligning HR practices with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting her work in HR transformation, employee relations, and diversity initiatives. Srinivasan’s dedication to sustainability is evident in her daily efforts to exceed the standards set by the UN SDGs.
Sushil Reddy: The Power of Advocacy through Action
Sushil Reddy, an alumnus of IIT Bombay and HEC Paris, captivated the audience with his story of The SunPedal Ride, an initiative that promotes sustainability through zero-emission travel. His Guinness World Record for the longest journey on an e-bike stands as a testament to his commitment to raising awareness about clean energy and sustainable practices. Reddy’s journey is a powerful example of how individuals can make a difference through innovative approaches to sustainability.
Guiding the Discussion: Expertise in Operations and Sustainability
The panel discussion was expertly moderated by Prof. Gajanand M. S., an Associate Professor in the Operations Management & Decision Sciences Area at IIM Tiruchirappalli. With a background in industrial engineering and extensive research in distribution planning and green logistics, Prof. Gajanand provided valuable insights that enriched the discussion, helping the audience navigate the complexities of sustainability in modern business operations.
Engaging with the Audience: A Session of Inquisitive Dialogue
The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to interact directly with the panellists. This interactive session allowed for deeper exploration of the topics discussed, providing attendees with practical insights and strategies for implementing sustainable practices in their professional lives.
Nitin Deshmukh, a member of the Placement Office, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the speakers and participants for making the event a success. The conclave concluded with the mass singing of the National Anthem, a moment of unity and reflection on the importance of sustainability for the future of India.
(India CSR)
