Indholdsfortegnelse for May 2024 i Outlook Business

“Why do we have to grow up?” Walt Disney once asked. It rings truer in these dark times, where innocence of a child'S laughter is drowned by thundering guns, explosion of bombs and shrill pitches of dictators around the world. We need the magic of Walt Disney now more than ever to preserve innocence and the joy of childhood. Mickey'S foot-tapping does not excite us anymore. When Dumbo the elephant sprouts wings and says, “Don't just fly, soar”, he is not egged on by enthusiasm, we generally shrug and look away. Do we still clap with delight when Mary Poppins snaps her fingers and says, “In every job that must be done, there is an element of joy”? Is Disney'S appeal to the young and young-at-heart waning as Barbenheimer gripped…

The United Nations defines net zero as “cutting emissions down to an amount that can be absorbed by natural or technological measures, leaving zero in the atmosphere.” However, the process of designing net-zero energy structures is fraught with challenges, given the subject'S complexity and often misconstrued nature. Sachin Rastogi is the Founding Director and Principal at Zero Energy Design Lab, a researchdriven architecture and interior design studio based in Delhi. Founded in 2009, the firm specialises in designing netzero energy buildings. With sustainability at the core of its design process, ZED Lab works towards improving people'S quality of life in symbiosis with the environment through the lens of research, design, and construction. Drawing inspiration from vernacular and ancient Indian architecture and modern global influences, Rastogi'S work incorporates elements that optimise…

By 2030, 43 cities worldwide are projected to have a population of 10 million, a stark rise from the mere 10 urban centres recorded three decades ago. The surge necessitates a corresponding expansion in infrastructural provisions such as housing, sustenance, industrial facilities, and more. There is an urgent need for cost-effective solutions that offer rapid construction, ease of replication, and adaptability. However, this challenge must not be viewed solely through the lens of statistics. This topic forms the crux of the work of Mumbaibased architectural practice atArchitecture, led by Avneesh Tiwari and Neha Rane. SIGNIFICANT WORKS Home Within House, Cambodia Home Within House, winner of the 2018 Affordable Housing Competition by UNDP Cambodia, is a 3000-unit project in the Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone. It aims to provide affordable and…

Longevity is one of the pillars of sustainability. How do we ensure our buildings stand the test of time, especially when faced with nature'S most violent forces? While contemporary technologies are valuable, relying solely on them is insufficient. To achieve resilience, there is a need for options that prioritise economic viability, material responsibility, cultural acceptance, and scalability. In the aftermath of the earthquake in Bhuj, Abhiyan (a collective of Kutch'S NGOs formed as a response to the 1998 cyclone), constituted a Building & Innovation Cell to aid the reconstruction activity. This cell went on to become Hunnarshala Foundation in 2003. The Foundation works towards capacitating people to reconstruct their homes following natural disasters. “There is tremendous scientific knowledge in traditional building techniques, that, combined with modern technology, can help communities…

Introduction: RR Solutions, led by CEO Mukul Vasishth, stands as a distinguished entity within the corporate gifting industry. Dedicated to delivering unparalleled excellence in customized gifting solutions, RR Solutions emerges as a beacon of innovation and reliability in the domain of corporate gifting. Company Overview: Founded on the principles of ingenuity and client-centricity, RR Solutions has carved its niche as a trusted partner for businesses endeavoring to leave a lasting impression through thoughtful gifting. Headquartered in the vibrant city of Saket, Delhi, RR Solutions operates with a team of passionate professionals adept at discerning the intricacies of diverse markets. Digital Leap: In a testament to its commitment to innovation, RR Solutions has embraced the digital realm with the launch of its sub-brands: Best Corporate Gifts, Idea Factory, and Idea Factory.…

In India'S financial realm, Keertana Finserv Private Limited, led by Ms. Padmaja Reddy, shines as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity. Formerly Rajshree Tracom, the company under Ms. Reddy'S guidance has redefined accessible financial solutions. Starting in South India, Keertana envisions nationwide expansion, aiming to set a standard for inclusive finance. Ms. Reddy'S leadership emphasizes ethics, integrity, and excellence, driving a mission of financial inclusion, particularly in rural areas. Despite challenges, including those faced by her Micro Finance Institution, Spandana, Ms. Reddy'S resilience has fueled Keertana'S success. Through a diverse range of financial products, Keertana is empowering low and middle-income segments, catalyzing economic growth and empowerment. With a commitment to transparency and innovation, Keertana is poised for a trailblazing journey towards a more inclusive financial landscape nationwide. Empowering Communities Through…

In the expansive field of medicine, distinguished figures such as Dr. Unmesh Vidyadhar Takalkar stand as paragons of dedication and expertise. Dr. Takalkar'S career epitomizes a relentless pursuit of excellence, shaping the landscape of healthcare through his visionary leadership and innovative approaches. Dr. Takalkar'S journey in medicine began with a noble aspiration: to make a significant contribution to his nation'S healthcare landscape. After completing his Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) in Jalna in 1983, he embarked on his medical education journey in Aurangabad. In 1991, he earned his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), followed by a Master of Surgery (MS). It was during his tenure at Tata Hospital, where he gained invaluable experience, that Dr. Takalkar'S passion for addressing healthcare needs was truly ignited. In 2007, Dr. Takalkar took…

In the heart of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, MGM University established by Maharashtra Govt Act, 2019 stands as a beacon of educational transformation. MGM Trust established in 1982 under the visionary guidance of former Education Minister Shri Kamalkishore Kadam, the institution has continuously pushed boundaries, reshaping the educational landscape. MGM University'S commitment transcends conventional education paradigms. It aims to nurture not only knowledgeable individuals but also well-rounded global citizens equipped with skills, values, and mindsets essential for success in a dynamic world. With a diverse array of over 300 academic programs spanning seven faculties, including pioneering fields like Engineering & Technology, Social Sciences & Humanities, and Performing Arts, Design, Management, applied, interdisciplinary sciences, the university offers students a myriad of paths to excellence. At the core of its philosophy lies the…

In Chhattisgarh'S remotest district, where extremist activities have long plagued development, there is a quiet tale of empowerment. Sukma district has been marred by insurgency for years. It is among the least developed districts in India. Over 83% of the district'S population belongs to tribal communities. Agriculture has traditionally been the prime source of income in the hinterland, including in Sukma. Against this backdrop, SHGs are working for change and the Lakhpati Didi scheme is aiding their efforts. The scheme, launched last year, provides financial support to rural women to start their own ventures. Lalita Naag, from Gongla village in Sukma district, joined a self-help group in 2016. She is now covered under the Lakhpati Didi scheme. With the loan, she ventured into the entrepreneurial realm, establishing a clothing store.…

Nations apart, travel bloggers Shivya Nath from India and Serena Hejazi from Germany have common preferences when it comes to travelling. They choose land transport over air. When they do fly, they try to offset their carbon footprint. To help local economies, they prefer local guest houses and eat local food. The United Nations defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities”. According to a 2021 study by World Travel & Tourism Council, the tourism industry accounts for around 8% of the overall greenhouse gas emissions. Being the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world after China and the US makes India a major stakeholder in…

India's Trade Policy: The 1990s and Beyond Arvind Panagariya Published: April 2024 The author, an economist and former chairperson of the Sixteenth Finance Commission, gives an overview of the Indian economy from the time of liberalisation to the present. The book puts together his writings since 1989. Mastering the Data Paradox: Nitin Seth Published: March 2024 The book explores the convergence of data and artificial intelligence, highlighting the opportunities it presents for individuals and businesses to innovate and to transform. Fusion Strategy Vijay Govindarajan, Venkat Venkatraman Published: March 2024 The authors offer a groundbreaking approach for industrial companies to thrive in the digital age, emphasising the transformative power of blending physical product creation with artificial intelligence. Building Resilience in Global Business During Crisis Suraksha Gupta, Ashish Gupta and Jitender Kumar…

COVER STORY DIAL M FOR MUKESH A head of the inauguration of the first Disney entertainment park in Anaheim (California) in 1954, the company'S illustrious founder Walt Disney is believed to have said “…it all started with a mouse”. Many continents away in India, the saying in the media and entertainment industry for the past two decades could well be that it all started with cricket. And so did the story of the Reliance-Disney merger. While the blueprint for the mega deal was being drawn up by top executives at Reliance Industries (RIL) and Uday Shankar, former Disney India boss and a board member at Reliance-controlled Viacom18 Media; caught between two Bobs—Bob Iger and Bob Chapek-and a writer'S strike in Hollywood, Mickey Mouse did not know where the rollercoaster ride would…

WHAT MONEY CAN BUY Nirmala Sithara man is the finance minister of the fastest-growing major economy in the world. She joined politics in 2007, became a Union minister in 2017 and only last year, Forbes magazine ranked her among the most powerful women in the world. Yet, when Sitharaman was asked why she was not contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, she said, “I do not have that kind of money.” How much money does it take to contest an election in India? An Outlook Business analysis of the amount of money spent by candidates who won the 2019 Lok Sabha elections found that an average member of Parliament (MP) spent around Rs 50 lakh on their campaigns. This was nearly 25% more than the average amount spent in 2014…

Building materials and construction processes are incredibly carbonintensive, accounting for 11% of global carbon emissions. As the world'S population nears 10 billion by 2050, this percentage is expected to rise sharply. This means that finding alternative building materials and processes is critical to decarbonising the building industry. Tejas Sidnal founded Carbon Craft in 2016 with the aim of finding ways to turn buildings, which are currently polluting mechanisms, into carbon sinks. However, environmentally conscious buildings cannot exist without employing carbon-negative products. He has been working on upcycling carbon into building products since then. Carbon Tile Having experimented with bricks, building facades, and other products using the captured air pollutant, Carbon Craft has pioneered the Carbon Tile. Apart from being low energy intensive, the tile has the advantages of being scalable…

Dr. Monica B. Sood is a global health icon with an array of credentials. Her Master'S in Business Administration, International Business, and Law complement her knowledge of Ayurvedic Medicine, making her an interdisciplinary specialist. Dr. Monica also studied Thoracic Oncology and Cancer Metastasis at Johns Hopkins University. She has earned numerous local and international awards for her work in aiding people worldwide and promoting world peace, economic prosperity, and women'S empowerment. Dr. Monica combines socioeconomic analysis and social involvement outside of work. Her personal aim is to eradicate dangerous illnesses, alleviate underprivileged people, and promote peace among countries. She leads the Navjivan Group and heads the National Unity & Security Council. She also promotes mental health awareness to foster empathy and nurtures youthful talent to ensure resilience and quality. Born…

“Light up minds, shape futures, spark change with passion.” - Dr Manimekalai Mohan Dr Manimekalai Mohan, hails from Trichy, Tamil Nadu. Her academic journey, marked by a post-graduation in Psychology and Rehabilitation Science from Holy Cross College, exemplified a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Driven by a desire to share knowledge, she founded SSVM Institutions in 1998 from a modest start with 25 children on a rented campus aiming to nurture young minds and transform lives in Sirumugai, Mettupalayam, Coimbatore. Dr Mohan'S journey epitomises determination, resilience, and profound impact, pioneering a new era in education with an innovative blend of entrepreneurship and education, supported by her husband, Mr Mohandoss. Her story, from humble beginnings to educational excellence, symbolises the spirit of transformation. While she has been honoured with numerous prestigious awards…

In the dynamic sphere of law, Advocate Dr. Sudhindra Bhat emerges as a beacon of excellence, steering SS Law Firm with unparalleled dedication and expertise. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction have propelled the firm to new pinnacles, firmly establishing him as a distinguished figure in the legal fraternity. At the helm of SS Law Firm, Dr. Sudhindra Bhat epitomizes leadership by cultivating a culture of perpetual learning and innovation within the organization. Despite his extensive tenure, Dr. Bhat remains firmly grounded, consistently adhering to foundational principles in every endeavor. This steadfast dedication to core values distinguishes him amongst his peers, garnering profound respect within the legal community. Under Dr. Bhat'S stewardship, SS Law Firm has earned acclaim for its ability to devise unconventional solutions to intricate…

In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern business, the role of effective people management has become increasingly paramount. Amidst this transformational shift, one leader stands out for her pioneering efforts in reshaping organizational cultures and practices: Shruti Swaroop. With a career spanning over two decades in International Human Resources, Swaroop'S journey is not just one of professional success, but also of profound impact and innovation. From her early days in London, UK, Swaroop demonstrated a relentless dedication to fostering inclusive workspaces. Collaborating with individuals and organizations, she championed a culture of acceptance and respect, laying the foundation for her future endeavors. Today, her influence spans across 100 organizations globally, touching the lives of over 2,00,000 individuals. Shruti Swaroop'S groundbreaking methods reshape organizational cultures, fostering inclusivity and driving success in today'S…

On a radiant Saturday afternoon in April, amidst the bustling streets of Chennai, Harini Ravi, the 26-year-old Director – Institutional Development of SRMIST, gracefully strides into the corporate office on the bustling Guindy road. Clad in a light beige blazer, Harini exudes an aura of serenity. As we settle down for an interview, her soft-spoken demeanour belies the dynamism of a young entrepreneur deeply committed to her work. Straight out of her monthly meeting with a team of brilliant academicians on enhancing the quality of research publications for faculty members across their institutions, Harini is already implementing a plan for the academic year. “Every insight matters,” Harini emphasizes, reflecting on her day-to-day interactions with faculty, students, staff, and administrators. “I thrive on continuous learning, drawing inspiration not only from them…

GET, SET, START HOODWINKED IN APP-VERSE Chandra Rama nujan'S father is a man in his late 60s. One day in December last year, Ramanujan'S father wanted to get his hair cut. He reached for his phone, logged into home services app Urban Company, and saw a haircut would cost him Rs 449 excluding taxes. Without thinking much, he placed a request. And minutes later, he realised he had been charged Rs 752. Confused, he checked the app again only to discover that not only will he get his hair cut, but he is also now the owner of a six-month subscription to UC Plus, Urban Company'S premium offering, a service Ramanujan'S father had no intention of buying. “This is basket sneaking and is illegal,” an outraged Chandra Ramanujan, a product designer…

In Climate Change: The Policy, Law, and Practice, Jatinder Cheema presents a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and the corresponding policy, legal and practical responses needed to address this global crisis effectively. Through a detailed analysis of international agreements, national policies, legal frameworks and current practices, Cheema sheds light on the complexities of climate change mitigation, adaptation and sustainability efforts worldwide. Understanding Climate Change Policies Cheema navigates through the intricacies of international agreements such as the Paris Agreement, emphasising the collective commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions for a sustainable future. By delving into the mechanisms of national climate action plans, the author highlights the importance of coordinated efforts at both global and local levels. Renewable energy policies and carbon pricing mechanisms, including carbon taxes…

Fashion is about being comfortable and being able to pick and choose what works for you, says Manish Kapoor, managing director and chief executive officer of denim and casual wear brand Pepe Jeans London. “It is not necessary to do what the world is doing. What makes you look and feel good is fine,” he says. That is not to say that he has not cringed at the sight of certain ensembles. As someone who has been in the fashion industry for decades now, Kapoor finds it difficult to understand certain preferences, even if they have been adopted into everyday attires. Sneakers with suit or blazer is one, he says. “Kids today wear sliders with socks along with shorts. I still feel that is not cool,” he adds. His comfort…

The Indian media and entertainment sector has been at a crucial juncture, grappling with the dual challenges of skyrocketing content costs and intense competition. Notably, the exorbitant expense of cricket broadcasting rights has significantly drained the finances of industry players. In this context, the aggressive strategy adopted by Reliance to stream cricket for free via JioCinema has not only intensified the strain on Disney's finances but also precipitated substantial losses for Hotstar. Concurrently, Disney's global operations are under significant cost-cutting pressure, exacerbating the financial distress of its Indian ventures. Given these circumstances, the industry was teetering on the brink of consolidation, the primary question being the identity of the partners and the terms of agreement. Emerging from this tumult, Reliance positioned itself as the prime candidate, wielding considerable negotiating leverage…

The act of building is inherently at odds with nature. It consumes resources and destroys natural ecosystems that have taken centuries to evolve. However, with eight billion people on the planet - and counting - humans must and will continue to build. So how must we build? Anjali Mangalgiri addresses this through her ecologically sensitive architecture practice, Grounded, which she founded in 2010 in Goa. The practice goes beyond creating architecture that reconnects with nature and aims to replenish the natural ecosystems of the land it sits on. Grounded practices an alternate business model, where the architectural team is the project'S architect and property developer. This allows the team to indulge authentically in the spirit of sustainability. One of the main environmental considerations that underlines Grounded'S work is the preservation…

Despite being a massive energy guzzler and a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, cooling remains a privilege in many parts of the world, especially in the Global South. A shocking 1.2 billion people still do not have access to cooling solutions, a number that will only go up as our world warms up even further. So, how do we find a sustainable solution to this problem? Mahila Housing Trust (MHT) was set up in the mid-90s to drive grassroots change at scale in Ahmedabad. It aims to improve urban built environments through collective action, mobilising women to exercise their civic rights and empowering them to take charge of improving their habitat. Today, MHT works in cities and rural areas across 9 states in India to advance access to basic…

For architects and designers working at the forefront of the industry, sustainability is nonnegotiable. But without concrete, evidencebased action, design solutions can often be inaccurate, ineffective, or sometimes, even add to the problem they are trying to solve. Environmental Design Solutions Global is a sustainability advisory firm focused on the built environment. Since its inception in 2002, EDS has consulted with some of the world'S leading architects, planners, and governments on over 500 green and energy-efficient projects at every scale — from policymaking and masterplanning to building components and products. Additionally, EDS has helped develop the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) in India and supports several international building energy code development, training, impact assessment, and implementation. SIGNIFICANT WORKS Organic India Factory, Lucknow This LEED Platinum project was led by Organic…

Access to and understanding of accurate information is essential for moving the needle on any issue. Conversations around sustainability, however, can often appear confusing or disconnected. So, how must we talk so that critical knowledge can break through the barriers of geographies, languages, and cultures to reach, inform, and influence people? The final two Disruptors receive a special mention for championing this cause. Their unconventional practices leverage various communication tools and engagement strategies to localise, deconstruct, and demystify complex issues of sustainability to catalyse action across scales for realworld impact. MALBA PROJECT Shamita Chaudhary set up the Malba Project in 2021 to spread awareness and develop solutions for the often overlooked construction and demolition (C&D) waste — or Malba in Hindi— which accounts for 30-40 percent of global solid waste.…

Mr. G S Ramesh, Chairman of Layam Group, and Mr. Rohet Ramesh, Director, have steered the company'S remarkable 17-year journey, reshaping the industry landscape and fostering substantial growth. Under their visionary guidance, Layam Group has emerged as a trusted name in management solutions, navigating challenges and carving its niche in the market. Let'S delve deeper into Layam Group'S operations and strategies to uncover the secrets behind its success and its future trajectory. Since its inception in 2007 with just 4 members, Layam Group has evolved into a leading management solutions provider, specializing in HR solutions, recruitment, staffing, and more. With an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 300 crore and a workforce of over 13,000 associates, Layam Group'S emphasis on innovation and sustainability sets it apart. Integration of AI, expansion to Australia…

Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalaya (SVVV), a premier educational institution, is making waves in the field of higher education by reinforcing its commitment to multidisciplinary learning and collaboration with industry. In a significant move, SVVV has entered into a series of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with renowned global institutions and industry giants, setting a new benchmark for holistic education. SVVV'S visionary approach to education involves not only imparting traditional knowledge but also integrating real-world industry experiences into its curriculum. This multidisciplinary approach bridges the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that students are well-equipped to excel in their careers from day one. One of the pivotal strategies adopted by SVVV is involving industry leaders in curriculum design. The university has signed MoUs with esteemed organizations such as IBM, RedHat, Hanyang University,…

Bharati Shah'S art transcends boundaries, offering transformative experiences. As a beacon of hope, her paintings inspire introspection, leaving an indelible mark. In the captivating world of artistry, Bharati Shah emerges as an outstanding performer, captivating audiences worldwide with her unparalleled creativity, passion, and philanthropic endeavors. With a career spanning over two decades, Bharati'S journey is not just a testament to her artistic prowess but also her unwavering commitment to using art as a medium for healing and expression. Drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, Bharati'S artistry transcends conventional boundaries, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of vibrant colors and untold emotions. Her mastery over various mediums, including oil, watercolors, and acrylics, allows her to breathe life into her canvases, capturing the essence of…

Aditya Birla Group'S flagsh ip metal company Hindalco Industries wants to meet 30% of its energy requirements via renewable sources by 2030. As the deadline inches closer, the company is experimenting with several technologies. One of the alternatives available from which the company has high hopes is the hybrid combination of solar, wind and pumped hydro. “This is a unique arrangement. If this works, it can revolutionise smelting in India,” says Satish Pai, managing director, Hindalco. The optimism about hybrid technology from a player engaged in an energy-intensive industry has not gone unnoticed. A look at the power sector in the past one year shows a growing affinity for the development and procurement of hybrid energy, which combines different energy sources such as solar and wind. Power generators such as…

A fund manager'S job is never easy, and if one must manage investments in debt, one must be extra cautious. It becomes very difficult when bond prices go up and down. The job becomes more challenging when you manage a fund house, not just one. As a fund manager, your primary focus is on the performance of the fund. However, when you are the head of a Mutual Fund house, you not only need to deliver on fund performance but also have to earn the trust of all stakeholders, including trustees, investors, fund managers, distributors, and all your employees, with paramount emphasis on business growth. Mutual fund industry veteran A. Balasubramanian checks all the boxes. In his present capacity, Balasubramanian spearheads the Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund as managing…

How important is it to integrate biofuels into the current energy mix, and where has India reached in this endeavour? It is extremely important for three reasons. First because India is a large consumer of fuels, importing more than 80% of its requirement, and a large emitter of greenhouse gas (GHS) and carbon di oxide emissions. India also has the unique potential of being one of the largest producers of waste and waste management is another major issue that the country needs to tackle. For all the above reasons, India needs to integrate biofuels in its energy mix because it is essentially a waste to fuel activity as we at Buyofuel define it. That being the definition of biofuels from any waste of human activity, it is very critical that…

THE IDEA OF DEMOCRACY AUTHOR SAM PITRODA PUBLISHED BY PENGUIN BUSINESS PAGES 243 PRICE: Rs 699 In my long professional career, I have experienced three different types of working environments and structures, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. Working as an entrepreneur, I had the freedom and flexibility to make my own decisions and assume responsibility for their consequences. Decision-making was quick and implementation simple on account of the centralized decision-making process. The potential to make a large impact, however, was limited, because of the lack of human and financial resources. Conversely, when I worked in a corporate environment, there were more people, more funds and greater opportunity to make an impact. Driven by profit motives, however, organizations focus on optimizing shareholder returns, often at the cost…

01 DIGITAL BOOM Internet explosion in India has created a digital marketplace teeming with potential buyers. This vast pool creates a fertile ground for sellers to propel their products onto the global stage. Moreover, digital tools facilitate seamless communication, transaction processing and order fulfilment, enhancing the efficiency and scalability of trade for Indian businesses. 02 GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES Government initiatives like Make in India are fostering a robust manufacturing environment. These initiatives incentivise production, creating high-quality and competitive goods that are increasingly sought after by international buyers. 03 FREE TRADE FLOW Free trade agreements create a smoother pathway for Indian exporters to access international markets by enabling businesses to operate more efficiently, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and enhancing predictability in cross-border transactions. 04 LOGISTICS LEAP From digital documentation systems for customs clearance to IoT-enabled tracking devices…