Ex-MD Britannia Industries bats for ethical decision making, concern for planet, at Ahmedabad University Convocation
Urging students to prioritise values, integrity, and leadership, Bali asked them to think about the world that we are creating, and the relationships one wants to have not just with other people, but with the environment.
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Vinita Bali, former MD of Britannia IndustriesEmphasising on the importance of ethical decision-making, environmental stewardship, and community responsibility, Vinita Bali, former Managing Director of Britannia Industries, cited the decline of lakes in Bengaluru as an example of the impact of human actions while addressing students at the 14th annual convocation of Ahmedabad University on Tuesday.
Urging students to prioritise values, integrity, and leadership, Bali asked them to think about the world that we are creating, and the relationships one wants to have not just with other people, but with the environment.
“I live in Bangalore. 60 years ago, there were 200 lakes. There are only 51 lakes now. What happened to the others? Well, people like us decided that there were other things that could be done on lakes, for example, building fancy apartments being sold at egregious prices, only to be flooded when there is torrential rain…” she said.
“The planet is crying out to people like us…So, let us make choices that are good for us, our planet, and our communities,” she added.
Bali also stressed the value of curiosity, compassion, and empathy in personal and professional growth. She highlighted the need for responsible use of information and the importance of creating a world of compassion and joy through informed and ethical actions.
“(The) material progress (seen over the last few years) has also created new challenges, which all of you will have to deal with as you manoeuver the next assignment of your life… those challenges will be addressed not through your knowledge alone, but…through compassion and empathy and understanding, through… creating bridges and friendships that you never knew were possible,” she said.
Presiding over the ceremony, Chancellor Sanjay Lalbhai reflected on the vision of Ahmedabad University: to build an institution that positions India as a leading light in the creation and dissemination of knowledge.
Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Management, Professor Pankaj Chandra, in his address, inspired graduates to use their education to make meaningful contributions to society.
At the convocation, as many as 830 students received their degrees.
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