Indic Leadership for Modern Governance – Insights from Thought Leaders: Dr. R Balasubramaniam, Dr. Hasmukh Adhia, Mr. Jaxay Shah and Prof. Neharika Vohra

In an era of rapid transformation and global interconnectedness, leadership rooted in ethical and value-based principles has never been more relevant. The event titled “Indic Leadership for Modern Governance” served as a powerful platform to explore how ancient Indian wisdom continues to offer valuable lessons for today’s leaders in government, business, and social enterprises. The session brought together some of the most respected voices in governance, public policy, and corporate leadership, who reflected on the importance of leadership styles anchored in Indic ethos for sustainable growth and transformation.

The event was designed to bridge the gap between traditional leadership values and contemporary governance challenges. It highlighted how India’s rich cultural heritage provides a leadership model that blends compassion, ethics, and purpose-driven action with modern practices. From the strategic decision-making of global leaders to the governance frameworks of the nation, the speakers emphasised how Indic leadership can be a source of inspiration and strength in modern times.

Key Themes and Takeaways: The discussion touched upon several critical themes:

Leadership from Within: Dr. R Balasubramaniam underscored that true leadership begins with self-awareness and a deep connection to the purpose of serving others. He highlighted how transformational change is possible when leaders align their personal values with the needs of the people they serve. Reflecting on Prime Minister Modi’s decision-making style, Dr. Balasubramaniam explained how a single guiding question—“Is this good for the country?”—is the foundation for many critical decisions.

Ethical Foundations in Governance: Dr. Hasmukh Adhia spoke about India’s long-standing tradition of valuing ethics at the core of leadership. He stressed the importance of staying anchored in moral values while embracing modern governance practices. As governance becomes more complex, leaders must remain grounded in ethical frameworks that ensure equitable and just outcomes for all sections of society.

Compassionate and Competitive Leadership: Mr. Jaxay Shah provided a business perspective on leadership, emphasising the need to blend competitiveness with compassion in the global business landscape. Drawing from the Indian ethos of harmony between people and profit, he encouraged leaders to adopt a balanced approach that priorities both organisational success and societal well-being.

Balancing Values and Action: Moderating the session, Prof. Neharika Vohra highlighted how leadership in the Indian context offers a unique blend of values and action. Drawing from her academic and practical experience, she emphasised that the future of leadership lies in creating empathetic leaders who are not just effective but also rooted in the values of service and compassion.

A Platform for Learning and Networking The event was more than just a panel discussion; it was an opportunity for learning, introspection, and dialogue. Government officials, business leaders, academicians, and students engaged in thought-provoking conversations about the relevance of Indic leadership in today’s dynamic and evolving landscape. Participants left with actionable insights on how they could incorporate ethical, purpose-driven leadership into their professional journeys. As India continues to play a growing role on the global stage, the lessons from this session are a reminder that leadership is not just about power and influence but about service, compassion, and staying true to one’s values.

About the Speakers:

Dr. R Balasubramaniam – Member HR, Capacity Building Commission & Author of Power Within: The Leadership Legacy of Narendra Modi

Dr. Hasmukh Adhia – Former Finance Secretary, Government of India & Principal Advisor to the Honourable Chief Minister of Gujarat

Mr. Jaxay Shah – Founder & CMD, Savvy Group & Chairperson, Quality Council of India

Prof. Neharika Vohra – Professor, IIM Ahmedabad The event provided fresh perspectives on how Indian leadership styles can inspire modern governance practices.