NEW DELHI: Sanjay Dalmia, Chairman, Dalmia Group of Companies and Promoter of Dalmia Medicare, a pioneer who has broad perspectives and courage to get away from the beaten track and be the innovator to institutions through vision, risk and initiative which today influences not only the immediate community but the country at large.
In conversation with India CSR Network, Sanjay Dalmia said, “I would like to continue and grow my contribution towards the society in whatever capacity I can.” He believe that being a developing nation there are various developmental issues in the country which require attention, specially healthcare. He said, “We need to ensure affordable healthcare for all.” Edited excerpts:
What goals have you set and achieved for CSR and Sustainability?
I strongly believe that every individual can play a role in the development and betterment of the society. When we all start contributing in the social and economic development of the country, we will be the best country in the world. I would like to continue and grow my contribution towards the society in whatever capacity I can.
Active involvement in various Social/Charitable organizations, including Masoom a school for special children from the economically weaker section of the society. Since the inception of Masoom, I celebrate my birthday with these children.
Dalmia Sewa Trust is actively involved in various philanthropic activities such as providing safe drinking water to the people of Chirawa (Rajasthan); organizing free health camps for patients suffering from Asthma, Eye ailments etc for the underprivileged and needy people in Rajasthan.
Dalmia Sewa Trust is also keenly advocating the idea of Swachh Bharat by doing its own bit in Chirawa. The trust has been constructing lavatories in about 100 odd houses who could not build/afford toilets in their houses owing to monetary constraints. DST has also taken up constructing houses for about 100 homeless families in Chirawa. All these projects are being run by Dalmia Sewa Trust from its own resources with no aid from the District Administration or from any outside agencies.
Another endeavor to provide healthcare facilities to the economically weaker sections of society in New Delhi was realized through the formation of the Bharatiya Socialist Republican Trust (BSR). My team is working towards improving the basic standards of living by providing safe drinking water and effectively address the issue of sanitation in Madanpur Khadar.
The trust Bharat Maa Shaheed Samman Trust has been formed by us with the sole aim of expressing appreciation and honoring the freedom fighters who came together to fight the colonial powers and win freedom for our Mother nation at the cost of sacrificing their very life. The trust is also extending financial support to the dependents of the Martyrs for Education and livelihood.
Bharat Maa Shaheed Trust is in the process of filing a petition in the British High Court for compensation against the atrocities and crimes committed by the British during the forceful occupation of our country, on the similar lines as filed by the Mau Mau Victims of Kenya, who had won a case against the British and the court was pleased to order compensation, for the atrocities and crime committed during the freedom struggle of Kenya.
Bharat Maa Shaheed Samman Trust has been organsing Bharat Maa Gaurav Sandhya a musical programme of patriotic songs, in various parts of India, as a tribute to the memory of Freedom Fighters and to instill a sense of pride among the youth of the society.
Our recent activity at Bhartiya Socialist Republican Trust, acknowledges the supreme sacrifices made by these heroes for the cause of our freedom struggle. As a part of this initiative, a function was organized on 27 February 2017, to commemorate the Martyrdom day of Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad, at our factory premises situated at Lalitpur, Distt. Jhansi, to unveil the statuette of Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad in the August presence of Shri Sujeet Azad, and Shri Amit Azad, Nephew and Grand Nephew of Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad. This activity was done not just to give us a sense of pride but also inculcate a sense of responsibility in today’s youth.
What is your perception about Government of India’s emphasis on CSR?
The government is keen to promote CSR and philanthropy. This approach is echoed in the Companies Act 2013, which seeks to mandate corporate social responsibility (CSR) for larger companies. It specifies a fairly wide range of activities that can be undertaken within the ambit of the mandatory (comply or explain) 2% spend on CSR.
According to you, what is biggest social challenge that needs to be addressed urgently through CSR?
Being a developing nation there are various developmental issues in the country which require attention. As individuals, groups and corporates, we all need to do our bit for the upliftment of the underprivileged. Good health leads to overall development of an individual, community, society and collectively of the nation. Ensuring that everyone has access to good health is the biggest challenge as well as the need of the country. Healthcare should be available at each and every corner of the country and at subsidized cost for the lower strata. We need to ensure affordable healthcare for all.
In terms of social challenges, poverty, illiteracy and sanitation are big issues which need to be addressed immediately.
How do you encourage creative thinking at work place?
Creativity leads to ‘out of the box’ thinking, and in today’s time businesses can’t survive without creativity and ‘out of the box’ thinking. Creativity is the core for innovation and growth of any business. We give people freedom and space to develop individual strategies/creative concepts for leading any initiative. We encourage our employees to focus on their health and manage work-life balance, which enhances creative thinking.
What makes you passionate about social work?
My commitment towards my country and its people.
Can you name a person who has had a tremendous impact on you as a leader?
All the freedom fighters of our country are my inspiration.
What type of recreational activities do you enjoy?
I’m a firm believer and follower of Yoga. I believe yoga, not just keeps one fit physically but has a very positive effect on the mental health on an individual.
What steps do you take to motivate others?
I believe in appreciating my team whenever I see them making efforts to pursue their goal. Appreciation and appropriate rewards always motivate people. I give my team a conducive environment for creative thinking and independence to take decisions.
What is one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess?
A strong vision and ability to take risks.
How do you incorporate technology change into your personal file?
Technology has brought revolutionary changes in our society. With the help of technology, communications is much faster now and a time-saving process. I use technology in social communications and information assimilation.
Do you think engagement on social media helps communicate company values, shape a company’s reputation, and grow and evolve corporate leadership in times of crisis?
Yes, social media is a great way to communicating. Social media amplifies the reach of any communication and helps in engaging a wider audience.
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