Ms. Raghavan, you have a remarkable career in corporate law, leading the Corporate Transactions practice at AK Law Chambers. Can you share with us the journey that led you to pursue a career in law and what sparked your interest in this field?
I come from a family of litigating lawyers (my grandfather KR Gopivallabha Iyengar was a judge of the Karnataka High Court and my father, Mr. KG Raghavan, is a senior advocate in Bangalore) and I am now the third generation lawyer. While I was always keen on becoming a lawyer from very early on, I wanted to establish a practice to create an identity of my own and on my own merit and consequently, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to pursue litigation as my area of specialisation. In addition to being a lawyer, I am also a qualified company secretary. As part of the CS course, I worked with the GMR Group. During my stint for a little over a year there, I was exposed to working with the legal and secretarial team alongside the business vertical with a focus on getting business done within the framework of the law rather than academic interpretation of the law. I even had the opportunity to be a part of the board meetings. When I met my husband, Anirudh Krishnan, in London during my LLM at the London School of Economics, our idea was that if we were to setup our private practice together, our skill sets should complement each other and not duplicate. All of this instilled a keen sense of desire to work in an area that is a bridge between the business world and the law and consequently pursuing a career in corporate transactions was the perfect fit.
Your educational background is impressive, with a Bachelors in Law from University Law College, Bangalore, and an LLM from the London School of Economics. How did your educational experiences shape your legal career and influence your specialization in corporate and commercial law?
An undergrad degree equips you to be a lawyer sans specialisation in most 5 year programs However, the LLM degree in LSE, UK changed my perspective on how to approach a given factual matrix and debating the ‘why’ of the law given that I shared a classroom with some of the best students from top schools across the world and was taught by some of the world’s best subject matter specialists. While at LSE there were two specific courses that added to my already keen interest in corporate and commercial law – International Business Transactions and Project Finance & Public Private Partnerships. However, according to me, much of my specialisation came to me as a learning on my first job with Mr. TK Bhaskar. But I would like to add that, over the years, since I have setup my own vertical in the area of corporate commercial transactions at AK Law Chambers, the LLM has visibly given me an edge when a client has to decide between two or more prospective lawyers.
Being a qualified company secretary and securing a gold medal is quite an achievement. How has this additional qualification complemented your legal practice, particularly in corporate transactions?
Thank you. I believe that having an additional qualification such as the company secretaryship has definitely added an intangible benefit to my practice. I am now in a position to provide my clients with the wholistic advice on how to structure and negotiate a particular transaction not only from the legal point of view but also from the financial and secretarial point of view and any Private Equity or M&A transactions would necessarily involve all three aspects – legal , finance and secretarial.
You have been recognized by prestigious platforms such as Chambers & Partners, Thomson Reuters, and Legal 500. What do these accolades mean to you, and how have they impacted your professional journey and reputation in the legal community?
The accolades are a recognition of the good work that one has done and a motivation to keep getting better each year. However, today the market is flooded with plenty of awards and several that come with a ‘nomination fee’ or a ‘registration fee’. We as a firm have a no payment for recognition policy and therefore I feel that those that I have earned are truly on the basis of the work we do. That being said, I am very grateful for the recognition and accolades that I have received and several of these carry a very good reputation and value internationally.
Your work in private equity, mergers and acquisitions, and general corporate advisory has been highly acclaimed. Could you tell us more about one of the marquee deals you were involved in, specifically the Mahindra Logistics acquisition of Whizzard, and what made it stand out as the deal of the year?
After 15 years of practice, I have come to see how few women stay on in the profession and put themselves out there – especially at negotiation tables in PE & M&A transactions. I’d like to use the word ‘marquee’ in two contexts – one where the deal itself is complicated and requires manoeuvring through the nuances of the law – like the Mahindra deal which was a deal involving an acquisition by a listed company and also had to be completed in a time bound manner of less than 5 days (where typically deals take around 45-90 days). There was another deal that I advised on wherein the investors from Mayalsia were exiting an Indian hospital and selling shares to a non-resident Indian and therefore the deal involved compliances and structuring under multiple jurisdiction. There is yet another deal I advised on which was a Rs. 1200 crores fund raise by a Section 8 company involved in a highly sensitive project in India. Some of these deals are in the public domain, while others are not. The other context of marquee, in my view is a transaction where the entire team of lawyers for all parties were all women – in this deal even the CFO of the investor was also a woman and when we closed the deal it left me with a sense of pride!
In addition to your legal practice, you actively mentor the start-up community and engage with organizations like TiE Bangalore and NASSCOM. How do you balance these roles, and what drives your passion for supporting startups and innovation?
I work with companies at all stages – companies that are still at an idea stage to multi-national companies that have several business verticals across countries. I would like to bring my expertise to help startups since they are the future of business in India and when they grow we grow with them. Organisations such a TiE, NASSCOM, etc provide a great platform for me to give back to the society in the way I can.
Beyond your professional achievements, you are also a trained veena artist and serve on the executive committee of the Madras Music Academy. How do you integrate your passion for music with your demanding legal career, and what role does music play in your life?
I have learnt the veena for over 30 years now and it was something that my mother was very particular about. Her objective in me being trained in music was two-fold, I would learn the music itself and also would inculcate the art of being able to focus. I believe that this has truly helped me at several points. My profession can get a bit monotonous at times and music brings in the refreshing change to my day. I believe it is important to keep your passions alive outside of your profession so that when you take that break and come back to work, you are recharged to give your best.
As someone who has achieved so much in both your professional and personal life, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates who are just starting their careers in the legal field?
Use your time at your internships well to assess which is the area of law that interests you and not go behind the mere “image” of a practice that looks externally appealing. In my opinion the first boss is probably more important than the area of work since the mentorship that you receive in your initial years will shape your professional life for several years thereafter. Also, if you choose to take up a particular area of practice, give it atleast 2-3 years so that you are able to see the full cycle of a deal or a case and understand to some extent what the area of practice entails.
Your journey has been quite diverse, spanning law, journalism, and corporate communications. Can you tell us what initially drew you to pursue a law degree at Symbiosis Law School, Pune?
I’ve always been a voracious reader and a tenacious writer. Early on, I recognized the importance of aligning one’s skills with career goals to truly excel. Both the legal profession and journalism seemed to perfectly match my pursuits. Ultimately, I chose to study law over journalism, drawn by the profound opportunity to enable justice, a cause that deeply resonates with me.
After obtaining your law degree, what motivated you to transition into the field of journalism, and how did you balance these two distinct career paths?
I feel there is an innate overlap in both professions. They both involve observing and studying extensively and then distilling all that knowledge into precise words. Although, as a lawyer, you bring your unique perspective to a set of facts, as a journalist, you state facts and help people form a perspective based on the set of facts. Both professions have the same underlying skill, i.e., drafting.
So, the transition for me was fairly easy. Once I entered law school, my forte and my passion for writing further solidified. I started working as a journalist part-time in college, which opened my horizons to the world of legal journalism, legal content and legal marketing as lucrative professions.
You’ve been recognized for excellence in both journalism and law. How have these two disciplines influenced each other in your professional life?
I have been passionate about both professions, so I started as a journalist while in law school, transitioned into a lawyer post law school, and then saw an opportunity to integrate both as a legal reporter and started working for a US publishing house. Taking a step beyond legal journalism into legal marketing was natural since the way to success is the continuous pursuit of knowledge. Right now, I am working in the field of law and using my writing skills to bring clarity to legal perplexities, as well as helping the firm that I work with augment its business.
As someone who manages content and media outreach at Fox Mandal, what strategies do you employ to ensure that the firm’s thought leadership and brand voice are effectively communicated?
Over the years, I have realized that adding value with consistency is the key to any initiative. As soon as we take up an issue or subject to write about or review, we check whether we are adding value or adding to the noise. If much is already out there, we try to explore new angles or new forms that the content could take, thus adding value or variety. Similarly, when it comes to the brand voice, we ensure that the value we intend to offer is clearly communicated. Clarity in thoughts and simplicity in words make communication much smoother. Then comes consistency, which embeds trust in the advertised capabilities and transforms average into excellence.
Your role involves extensive legal writing and communication. How do you maintain editorial governance to keep the content consistent with the firm’s style and tone?
As a law firm, it is expected that publication is done with adequate research and analysis. Honoring that responsibility, every draft goes through multiple levels of reviews and revisions. Apart from that, internal training is conducted periodically to ensure that firm members write responsibly with a lot of conviction. Templates and suggestions are regularly shared to maintain consistency. In addition, subjects are approached objectively, keeping all preconceived notions and interpretations aside.
In addition to your legal and communications expertise, you run a successful YouTube channel. How did you get started with that, and how do you manage to keep your content engaging for your audience?
As a first-time mother, there were new things I was learning each day, and I realized that the amount of guidance for new mothers was very limited at that time. The channel was created with the intention of simultaneously disseminating the knowledge I was gaining. Since my intention was never to monetize it or turn it into a career, the channel is only active when I come across something novel that I feel deserves to be out there.
You have been a speaker and judge at various legal competitions and events. What has been the most rewarding part of participating in these activities, and how do they contribute to your professional growth?
These opportunities have been instrumental in my self-learning journey and have significantly catalyzed my professional growth. The insights gained from these deliberations are unparalleled, providing a unique chance to expand my knowledge while contributing to the discourse. Additionally, witnessing the caliber of the next generation of legal professionals is refreshing. They are focused, savvy, and eager to learn, painting an optimistic picture for the future of the profession.
Given your extensive experience and accomplishments, what advice would you like to offer to fresh graduates who are just starting their careers in law and communications?
Identify and hone your natural skills. There are multiple options, and it sure brings in more chaos and confusion, but one needs to test the water before identifying one’s calling. Internships are a great way to navigate this clutter. It does not have to be with a premier law firm, it can be with a lawyer in your hometown or part time in the city where you study. But once you land any opportunity, try to question and understand the entire process involved. Don’t just be a cog on the wheel, try to comprehend the role the cog plays in moving the vehicle. Sometimes you may need to expand your area of operation, and this knowledge grants you the elbow room to explore your passion and prowess.
The content of this Article does not necessarily reflect the views/position of Fox Mandal & Associates LLP but remain solely those of the authors.
Can you share a pivotal moment or experience from your early career that solidified your decision to pursue law as a profession?
My grandfather was a significant influence on my career path! He was a Prothonotary and Senior Master in the Bombay High Court. On summer vacations when I used to visit his place, he used to tell me how his day at work was like. Just seeing him get all decked up in crisp formals and a coat with his suitcase ready to go to work is what inspired me to pursue law. The discipline in life which comes along with it is just an icing on the cake.
You’ve had an extensive journey through various law firms and corporate positions. What motivated you to transition from law firms to corporate roles, and how did each experience shape your expertise?
Transitioning from law firms to corporate roles was motivated by a desire for a different perspective and new challenges in my career journey. Each experience has played a significant role in shaping my expertise in different ways. Starting in law firms provided me with a strong foundation in legal practice. In this environment, I honed essential skills such as legal research, writing, and advocacy. Working on diverse cases and projects allowed me to develop a broad understanding of various areas of law and learn to navigate complex legal issues efficiently. Additionally, collaborating with experienced attorneys and receiving mentorship helped me refine my approach to legal analysis and client representation. Also, as it is necessary to have a strong foundation before constructing a building, I always believed the law firm experience provides with that strong foundation and basics at the starting point of your career.
Transitioning to corporate roles offered a unique vantage point to apply my legal skills in a different context. In a corporate setting, I gained insights into the business side of legal matters, including contract negotiation, regulatory compliance, and risk management. Working closely with internal stakeholders, such as executives, department heads, and cross-functional teams, enhanced my ability to align legal strategies with organizational goals and priorities. Moreover, navigating corporate environments provided me with valuable experience in understanding the interplay between legal considerations and business objectives, fostering a more holistic approach to problem-solving.
Each experience, whether in law firms or corporate settings, has contributed to my growth as a legal professional.
With your background in handling litigation matters across different forums, could you highlight a particularly challenging case you managed and the strategies you employed to navigate it successfully?
I strongly believe that each case has its own complexities and challenges, and it cannot really be segregated to the most and the least challenging. However, one case which stands out particularly is an international arbitration before the Swiss Arbitration Centre. I chose this one not because of the complexities involved (though it was extremely complex) but considering that it was my first international arbitration involving a completely different process altogether. I had to collaborate with a top tier law firm of Geneva for assistance and working with their team was itself very challenging and at the same time a big learning experience. To navigate this case successfully, several key strategies were employed:
The first step was conducting a comprehensive analysis of the facts, contracts, and applicable law. This involved reviewing extensive documentation, including contracts, emails, financial records, and other evidence, to gain a deep understanding of the case’s nuances and intricacies.
Based on the analysis, a strategic litigation plan was devised to address the various legal and factual issues effectively. This plan involved identifying strengths and weaknesses in our position, anticipating opposing arguments, and formulating proactive strategies to mitigate risks and maximize favorable outcomes.
Diligent Discovery: Given the complexity of the case, diligent discovery was crucial. This involved conducting thorough investigations, propounding targeted discovery requests, and strategically responding to discovery demands from opposing parties. Leveraging electronic discovery tools and expert assistance facilitated the efficient management of voluminous documents and data.
Collaborative Approach: Collaboration with colleagues, experts, and clients played a pivotal role in the successful management of the case. Regular communication, teamwork, and coordination ensured that everyone involved was aligned with the litigation strategy and working towards common goals.
I will always remember this case as I got the opportunity to work with one of the best law firms in Geneva and in the process gained sight of their working ways and culture and made some lifelong contacts.
Your experience spans across diverse legal domains such as civil laws, corporate laws, real estate, and arbitration. How do you manage to stay updated and proficient in such a wide array of legal areas?
Staying updated and proficient across diverse legal domains requires a combination of ongoing learning, strategic focus, and effective resource management. My senior always used to tell me that ‘Reading’ is the key and that it is never enough and one has to keep reading more and more. This has stuck with me ever since and I make sure to take time to do that. It does not specifically mean that one has to read Law books and commentaries. A simple novel, newspaper, articles are enough. I prefer to categorize the reading process in the following manner.
I prioritize continuous learning through various channels, including legal seminars, webinars, workshops, and professional development courses. These opportunities allow me to stay abreast of legal developments, emerging trends, and best practices across different practice areas.
I dedicate time to conducting legal research regularly to stay informed about recent case law, statutory changes, and regulatory updates relevant to each legal domain. Leveraging online legal databases, scholarly journals, and reputable legal publications helps me access timely and accurate information.
Engaging with colleagues, mentors, and legal professionals across different practice areas fosters knowledge sharing and collaboration. Participating in professional associations, bar committees, and industry forums provides valuable insights and perspectives from peers and experts in various legal fields.
Embracing technology tools and resources, such as legal research platforms, case management software, and artificial intelligence applications, streamlines workflows and facilitates efficient information retrieval in diverse legal areas.
Seeking guidance from experienced mentors and senior colleagues provides invaluable support and guidance in navigating complex legal issues and expanding expertise across different practice areas.
As someone who has held leadership positions, including leading teams and managing departments, what strategies do you employ to foster effective teamwork and collaboration within legal environments?
The teamwork and collaboration should not be restricted only within the legal team. The key in a corporate setting is to be a business enabler rather than just finding legal solutions to the problem. The first and foremost thing I tell the team is that working in the corporate sector is completely different from that of a law firm (from experience!) and the objective is to find a solution which is viable for the business and one which does not put the company exposed to any potential liability or conflict. I make sure to set up weekly catch-up calls with the business leaders and stakeholders just to discuss casual business and their expectations from the legal team. Likewise, acknowledging and celebrating team achievements (legal and business), both big and small and seeing failures as opportunities for learning and improvement help in the long run.
In your role as a legal professional, you’ve undoubtedly encountered complex contract negotiations. Can you share some insights into your approach to negotiating contracts and ensuring favorable outcomes for your organization?
Absolutely! Negotiating contracts can be intricate and demanding, requiring a blend of legal expertise, strategic thinking, and effective communication skills. Before entering into negotiations, conducting comprehensive research and analysis to fully understand the terms, conditions, and potential implications of the contract is important. This includes reviewing relevant laws and regulations, understanding industry standards, and gathering information about the other party’s preferences and priorities. Working closely with stakeholders to understand their objectives is equally important. Clear and concise communication is essential throughout the negotiation process. Effective communication helps build understanding and facilitates productive dialogue.
Given your involvement in Mergers and Acquisitions, could you discuss some of the key legal challenges you’ve faced in such transactions and how you navigated them to ensure compliance and success?
Certainly! Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transactions present a plethora of legal challenges, ranging from regulatory compliance to contractual issues. Here are some key legal challenges I’ve encountered in M&A transactions, along with strategies for navigating them to ensure compliance and success:
Regulatory Compliance: One of the foremost challenges in M&A transactions is navigating the complex web of regulatory requirements and obtaining necessary approvals from regulatory authorities. This includes antitrust regulations, securities laws, foreign investment regulations, and industry-specific regulations.
Contractual Issues: M&A transactions involve negotiating and drafting numerous contracts and agreements, including purchase agreements, shareholder agreements, and employment contracts. Ensuring that these contracts accurately reflect the parties’ intentions, protect their respective interests, and comply with legal requirements is critical.
Intellectual Property (IP) Issues: IP considerations are often paramount in M&A transactions, particularly in technology-driven industries. Identifying and assessing the target company’s IP assets, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets, is crucial to evaluating the transaction’s value and mitigating risks.
Employment and Labor Law: M&A transactions can have significant implications for employees, including potential changes in employment terms, benefits, and job security. Ensuring compliance with employment and labor laws, including regulations governing layoffs, severance pay, and employee benefits, is essential to minimizing legal risks and maintaining positive employee relations.
Data Privacy and Security: In an increasingly digital world, data privacy and security considerations are critical in M&A transactions, particularly when handling sensitive personal or proprietary information. Ensuring compliance with data protection laws and regulations, such as the GDPR and CCPA, is essential to protecting both parties’ interests and mitigating potential legal and reputational risks.
By proactively addressing these and other legal challenges in M&A transactions, I aim to facilitate smooth and successful transactions that create value for all stakeholders involved while minimizing legal risks and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Drawing from your extensive experience, what advice would you offer to fresh law graduates stepping into the field today, especially regarding career growth and navigating the complexities of the legal profession?
For fresh law graduates entering the legal profession, here are some key pieces of advice to consider as you embark on your career journey:
Continuous Learning and Skill Development: The legal profession is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to prioritize continuous learning and skill development throughout your career. Stay updated on legal developments, industry trends, and emerging areas of law through ongoing education, professional development programs, and networking opportunities.
Seek Mentorship and Guidance: Find mentors within the legal profession who can offer guidance, support, and advice as you navigate the complexities of your career. Mentors can provide valuable insights, help you develop professionally, and offer perspective based on their own experiences in the field.
Embrace Technology and Innovation: Embrace technology and innovation as valuable tools for enhancing your legal practice. Stay abreast of advancements in legal technology, such as case management software, research tools, and e-discovery platforms, and leverage them to streamline your work processes, improve efficiency, and deliver greater value to your clients.
Cultivate Professionalism and Integrity: Uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in all aspects of your legal practice. Adhere to ethical guidelines and codes of conduct, maintain confidentiality, and always act in the best interests of your clients while upholding the rule of law.
Develop a Strong Work Ethic and Resilience: The legal profession can be demanding and challenging, requiring perseverance, resilience, and a strong work ethic. Be prepared to put in the time and effort necessary to excel in your career, and don’t be deterred by setbacks or obstacles along the way.
Stay Flexible and Adapt to Change: The legal profession is dynamic and constantly evolving, so be prepared to adapt to change and embrace new opportunities as they arise. Stay flexible in your career trajectory, be open to new experiences and challenges, and seize opportunities for growth and advancement along the way.
Can you share with us how your journey into law began? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
My journey with law started only incidentally. As a child finishing high school, all I knew of what I wanted to do – was join the corporate world, and be a corporate honcho – I wanted to walk in my father’s rather large shoes – as I had always seen him as a top corporate executive. But I soon learnt that engineering was not for me. No matter how hard I tried – I just didn’t grasp the concepts for JEE exams, while for my friends it was a piece of cake. Then someone told me of a few prominent corporate executives who were actually lawyers by training. Since I had always been a debater, the common opinion was that I would do well in law. That is what I wanted to do, complete my LL.B., do some work, pursue an MBA and then proceed with life. But clearly life had other plans. I started enjoying reading law in law school, and started performing well in Moot Court competitions. But even then I had no plans of pursuing law post my LL.B. Then one day in an international arbitration competition held in Delhi, I was awarded the best speaker, and more significantly, a scholarship to National University of Singapore for an LL.M. No one, in their right mind, can let such an opportunity go by and so that is how I went ahead and pursued my LL.M, even with no intention of continuing with law. When I returned to India, I decided to work in a law firm for about a year (or two) before I would go ahead for my MBA – as previously planned – but my tryst with law, started at JSA under Mr. Sumanto Basu, and that is when I fell in love with law, and with being a lawyer. I saw large corporations, value and plan entire business strategies based on the advice given by Mr. Basu, who in turn based his advice on the work done by us! That realisation was empowering and humbling at the same time. After this, there was no looking back.
You graduated from NLU Jodhpur and then pursued your LL.M from the National University of Singapore. How did your academic experiences shape your career in law, especially in international commercial laws?
Both NLUJ and NUS have had significant contributions to my life. These institutions helped create the foundation for the legal acumen, and the understanding of the principles of law and practice. I owe a lot to NLUJ of course, the fundamentals of our legal understanding, the basic concepts of law, jurisprudence, drafting and advocacy was taught to us, and ingrained in us by the alma mater. NLUJ taught us research methodology, how to articulate one’s opinion coherently in articles, and the art of persuasion – through moot court competitions. The plinth on which I have built my practice, was created at NLUJ. But I think even beyond the academic training, NLUJ played a very big role in the development of my personality. I don’t think law school, at the undergrad level especially, should be looked at only as a place to read and learn law. Much more importantly, this is a place where you’re mixed into a melting pot, and you learn a lot about yourself, and your relationship with the world.
NUS, because I was much older when I went there, and also because the LL.M. is only for a year or so – is where the focus was predominantly on academic rigour. I had the opportunity to sharpen the understanding and application of the laws. In an international LL.M., one is reading foreign law, which may or may not be relevant later. But that is precisely why an LL.M may be important. It trains you to read and comprehend all sorts of legislations – even those which you may not be able to relate to. What was very different in NUS for me, was the way examinations were held. Most of the exams were open – book exams, they didn’t want to assess one’s memory, but one’s understanding of the concepts. This forced me to learn to comprehend and articulate faster, rather than just mug things up. The LL.M. also taught me that there are multiple viewpoints available for the same issue, and that it often varies based on what one’s life journey has been and the culture / society one has been exposed to. This also became relevant and useful when interacting with other lawyers and arbitrators in the international context.
Starting your career at J Sagar Associates, you worked on both the transactional and litigation sides of law. How did this dual experience influence your professional development and perspective as a lawyer?
There is a marked difference in the way transactional lawyers and litigating lawyers deal with clients and with the mandate before them. In both, of course, you keep the client and the client’s interest at the forefront, but there is a difference in the approach. On the transactional side, the focus is on advice and in enabling the client to get a deal done. One is often batting for the client, against another party but, importantly, towards a common goal, i.e., arriving at an agreement, which is mutually beneficial to both the parties involved, and which will govern the relationship of the parties going forward. The understanding of the industry, the Client’s business, its weaknesses and needs, governs your advice and actions.
Whereas in litigation, it is almost always adversarial, where one has to strive to defeat the other side and their version – in order to make one’s own client win. Here, the facts of the case, the law, and the specific personality of the court / tribunal, are what reign supreme in the mind of the advocate. Of course, this is overly simplified, and a generalisation, but that there is a difference in the approach is clear. I can happily say that I thoroughly enjoyed both sides of the coin, but it is the litigating and adversarial side of the practice that I love. The fact that I have received invaluable training from prominent people in both these fields in JSA, I feel I have widened my viewpoint and perspective as a lawyer, which has helped me to grasp issues in a matter, and also comprehend the business realities which cause the clients to make certain decisions. Some of the law firms require freshers to be on rotation, and go through various practice areas for the first 6 – months or so. Given my experience, I think it’s wonderful and long may it continue.
You’ve had the opportunity to work under prominent figures like Mr. Vipin Nair and Mr. Gopal Subramanium. How did these experiences and mentors impact your approach to practicing law and handling significant cases?
My seniors have not merely had an impact on my approach to practicing law, they have all shaped me into the lawyer and the person I am today. My practice, and how I present myself in court and to other advocates / clients, is entirely a reflection of all my mentors and seniors. I have had a number of mentors in my life, but significantly, I must mention Mr. Sumanto Basu – who took me under his wing when I was an absolute fresher and who then taught me not just how to practice law, but even how to conduct myself. Mr. Amar Gupta – who was instrumental in my transition to litigation and who planted in me the love for litigation and court craft. Mr. Vipin Nair and Mr. P.B. Suresh taught me the tips and tricks of independent practice, advocacy, effective drafting and most importantly demonstrated how important it is to build a rapport with the Bench, other members of the bar and the court staff. From Mr Gopal Subramanium, of course, as a very senior and eminent senior counsel, I learnt how a person of his stature prepares for matters, deals with the pressure, the adulation and the criticism, and keeps the dignity of the Court and the need of the matter at the forefront.
Your practice covers a wide range of areas including corporate litigation, arbitration, and consumer law. How do you manage such a diverse portfolio, and what challenges have you faced in balancing these different specializations?
It isn’t about managing a diverse portfolio, I have a practice that covers a wide range of areas, purely because I enjoy a wide range of subjects and each area comes with its own style of pleading, practice, and its own jurisprudence. It is a lot more enjoyable (at least for me), and the issues and the clientele that I interact with are also dynamic and different. As far as I am concerned, it keeps the hunger and the attraction for the law and litigation going. Having said that, I must clarify that having a wide practice area is not unusual, there are several other counsels as well, who practice in several fora and we regularly meet each other in different courts. Those predominantly practice in one type of practice area, do so probably because they have attained true expertise in that field of law and therefore are now required to devote most of their time assisting the courts, and advising clients, in that area of legal practice.
You have been involved in several landmark cases, such as the class action matter involving data privacy and the whistleblower suit. Could you tell us more about these cases and what they mean for the legal landscape in India?
Both of these matters that have been mentioned, are sub – judice, and so I don’t want to get into them in detail. But in short, the data privacy matter is an interesting one, where medical data entrusted with a cloud storage service provider went missing. The service provider took the defence that no liability can be attributed to it, since it provided a back – up only in the more expensive version of its service. The complainant therein was aggrieved by this position since the complainant felt that such a defence cannot be taken when data (and sensitive data such as this) has been admittedly lost based on the negligence and internal glitch of the service provider. Recognizing that this will be an issue for all those who have not taken the more expensive version of the service, a consumer complaint, with an application to treat the same in the interest of the class of consumers was filed. The National Commission passed certain significant orders in the matter (although the matter is pending adjudication), the issue is now before the Supreme Court.
Clearly this is an important issue because this not only deals with the sensitivity with which data must be dealt with, but also as to whether a class action proceeding can be maintained for an issue such as this. With data becoming the currency in the new world, matters such as this, would certainly become relevant for the law to develop appropriately.
The whistleblower matter is another interesting matter, where a person brought to the attention of the internal management of a large MNC that unethical practices were rampant within the organisation. Pursuant to an internal investigation, the admitted whistleblower was terminated from the employment on the ground that he too had been involved in the said unethical conduct. The whistleblower filed a civil suit challenging the said termination claiming that this is an attempt to penalise the person for blowing the whistle internally. He has also filed a Writ Petition bringing to the attention of the Court the fact that the law in India is woefully inadequate as far as according protection to whistleblowers is concerned while several countries have robust laws to protect whistleblowers and to prevent retaliatory conduct. A Judgment of the court in this regard, will certainly have a major impact and may actually cause the law and businesses to provide realistic mechanisms to prevent unethical conduct and to protect those who wish to speak out against such conduct.
As someone who has achieved considerable success in the legal field, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates who are just starting their careers?
Its very nice of you to say so, I don’t know if I can be said to have achieved considerable success – as yet, but if I had to share a couple of my learnings with fresh law graduates, it would be this:
Know your subject and the law very well. Please read the law. This includes being updated with the recent judgments and reading the bare acts. I have come to learn that knowing the law really well puts you at an advantage on any side of the practice. There is simply no substitute for it and those who really become prominent, almost always, have a strong command on their subject and are armed with a profound knowledge of the law.
Not many really know what is good for them, and what they are meant to be, especially so, when you’re a fresh law graduate, and your only understanding of the legal world is through limited internships and maybe SUITS! Therefore take on all experiences wholeheartedly. Don’t resist any new experience or challenge, it is only in the deep end that we really learn how to swim. Plus, it is the ability to see a problem or a legal issue, from various viewpoints and perspectives, that sets one apart from the rest and that ability is honed especially by having a varied bouquet of life experiences. So don’t sweat the small stuff and dive – in deep.
Can you share what initially inspired you to pursue a career in law? Was there a specific moment or influence that set you on this path?
From a young age, I had a strong inclination towards law because it represented a pathway to justice, which deeply appealed to me. The idea of being able to contribute to fairness and uphold the rights of individuals and communities was incredibly motivating. There wasn’t a single moment that set me on this path, but rather a consistent interest in the principles of justice and equity. This passion ultimately guided my decision to pursue a career in law.
You have an impressive educational background, including an LL.M. from Penn State Law. How did your studies there shape your legal perspective, particularly in specialized fields like Antitrust, Bankruptcy, and Energy Law?
Thank you for your kind words. Indian competition law has largely evolved from U.S. antitrust law, so studying this area in the U.S. provided me with valuable insights that I could apply back home. Bankruptcy law was particularly intriguing, as it was a nascent field in India with the recent enactment of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). Engaging in a comparative analysis with U.S. bankruptcy laws provided me with a robust foundation, which has been incredibly beneficial as I now specialize in this area. Energy law, while still evolving in many respects, is a field where the growth of renewable energy sources presents significant opportunities. My studies at Penn State Law allowed me to explore emerging trends and regulatory frameworks in the U.S., equipping me with the knowledge to anticipate and navigate similar developments in India.
Being a dual-licensed attorney in both the State of New York and India is quite an accomplishment. What challenges did you face while obtaining these licenses, and how do they complement your practice?
Obtaining licenses to practice law in both the State of New York and India was incredibly rewarding. Passing the New York Bar exam felt like a wonderful accomplishment. It was a daunting exam, but successfully navigating it instilled a sense of confidence and added credibility to my professional profile. Being dual-licensed complements my practice by allowing me to offer a broader range of legal services and insights, bridging the legal frameworks of both jurisdictions. This dual qualification enables me to better serve clients who operate internationally and provides a unique edge in comparative legal analysis.
Your work primarily focuses on resolving civil and commercial disputes. What drew you to this area of law, and what are some of the key challenges you encounter in these cases?
I have a profound understanding of the intricacies involved in civil and commercial fields like tax and bankruptcy, which provides a specialized edge in my practice.
I enjoy tackling challenging subjects, and given the vastness of civil and commercial law, it’s akin to navigating an ocean with no shore. The complexity and diversity of issues keep me intellectually engaged and continuously learning.
One of the key challenges in these cases is the depth and breadth of knowledge required to address the multifaceted legal and factual issues that arise. Each case is unique, demanding a thorough analysis and a tailored approach to achieve a resolution. Additionally, staying updated with constantly evolving laws and regulations is crucial. Overall, the dynamic and challenging nature of civil and commercial disputes aligns perfectly with my passion for the law and my desire to make a significant impact in this field.
You’ve advised both domestic and international clients on complex legal issues. How does working with international clients differ from domestic ones, and what unique perspectives do you bring to the table?
Working with international clients often involves navigating diverse cultural backgrounds and managing a broader range of projects. This variety provides access to a wider array of legal issues and challenges, making the professional journey more enriching. Being well-versed in multiple jurisdictions allows us to offer valuable insights and advice that are beneficial from both regulatory and compliance perspectives. We guide clients on a macro level, considering the broader implications of their legal matters across different legal systems. This comprehensive understanding enables us to tailor our advice to meet the unique needs of international clients, ensuring they receive well-rounded and effective support and do not have to rely upon or engage multiple professionals across different jurisdictions.
As a trained mediator, how do you integrate mediation techniques into your legal practice, and what benefits do you see for your clients in resolving disputes through mediation?
As an Advocate, it is essential to weigh the best interests of the client. Often a client is warring within their corporate circuit or amongst their familial relationships which could be settled out-of-court with third party intervention. Significant court backlogs and investment of time and resources required for litigation often motivate clients to pursue mediation, if counselled well. We do take pride in facilitating communication between disputing parties, by mediating between them and subsequently drawing up agreements, reiterating that issues can be resolved more efficiently and amicably through ADR than court proceedings. Even once litigation has been initiated, mediation techniques can play a crucial role in guiding parties towards a settlement. Overall, the use of mediation not only provides a more amicable and cost-effective resolution for clients but also helps preserve relationships that might otherwise be damaged by adversarial litigation.
Finally, what advice would you like to give to fresh law graduates who are about to start their legal careers, especially those aspiring to achieve similar milestones as yours?
My advice is not to fret and take the time to understand how vast the field of law truly is. It’s no longer confined to the dual choice of litigating or working for a corporate firm. The profession has expanded to offer numerous new, untapped opportunities.
I delved into the specialized field of taxation law two years after graduation, which demonstrates that you don’t have to figure everything out during law school. Use internships to explore different areas and weigh where your interests lie. This practical experience will help you discover your passion and guide your career path.
Remember, the journey to achieving milestones takes time, and each step, whether big or small, contributes to your growth as a legal professional. Stay open to learning and embrace the diversity of opportunities the legal field has to offer.
Can you share with us what initially drew you to the field of law and how your journey began?
I come from a family of legal professionals as my father was a tax lawyer and so was my grandfather. Science was my major subject in school and I was good in Maths and like many of my batchmates wanted to become an engineer, however destiny had different plans, After I completed my graduation with honours in English I was encouraged by my father to appear for the various law school exams and consider law as a career option. Thankfully, I scored well and qualified for the University law LLB programme (three year course) and then did well and stood second overall in my LLB course. This success led me to think big and then I got selected for the LLM course (specialisation in Business Law) from NLSIU, Bangalore. However, the real interest in Law really took shape in NLSIU Bangalore with the help of modern analytical way of teaching and under the guidance of reputed professors of law in the University. Want to mention a few eminent teachers like Professor Devidas, Professor Ramakrishna, Professor Jayagovind, Professor Pillai who were key in shaping up my understanding and knowledge of Law and taking the first stepping stone in my career.
Reflecting on your 16+ years of experience, can you discuss some key milestones that have shaped your career as the Head of Legal for UK & Ireland at Wipro Ltd.?
Some of the key milestones that have shaped my career as the Head of the function in UK and Ireland are the following:
Working on numerous large deals (over 100 Mn GBP) across business lines and executing them efficiently by working closely with the key stakeholders like the Business, Finance, Delivery, Risk, Data Privacy, Human resources.
Being part of the overall UKI leadership team and contributing effectively to the strategic development of the company over the years.
Helping the Business et up a new regulated company by ensuring that the right compliances are taken care of especially compliances with respect to FCA ,
Managing and supervising a team of lawyers which was working offshore and helping them act as business enablers and grow within the organisation.
Working closely as a data protection point of contact for all incidents related to data protection compliance and working with regulatory authorities in case of a data breach incident.
Coordinating efficiently with external counsels and seeking advice in case of large disputes and helping the company navigate through the entire lifecycle of a court case.
You’ve managed litigation and represented clients in various legal proceedings. Can you highlight a particularly challenging case and how you navigated it?
The case was with a client in the energy sector and lasted for over 4 years and went through two rounds of mediations. It was extremely complex with issues related to contractual breach and here I was required to be very close with our external advisors in close tandem and brief them about the facts which were quite unique and technical. Had to coordinate with solution architects, delivery managers, finance leads to communicate the entire spectrum of facts to the lawyers and experts. It was a long drawn case which demanded every bit of your attention to finer details especially on the factual aspect and eventually got settled recently amicably in the best ineterst of the company.
Your experience with IT agreements is extensive. What are some of the unique challenges you’ve faced when drafting and negotiating contracts in the rapidly evolving IT sector?
In the rapidly evolving IT sector what has become more challenging is that the opportunity to really negotiate on contractual terms have come down significantly to what used to happen say five years ago, Now it more of being compliant with the bid/tender terms and conditions and working your way through the various stages of the contract submission stage, where you work closely with the business stakeholders/leaders in understanding the risk and pain areas and then managing or mitigating the risk to the best of the organisation operational and commercial ability.
You’ve led successful deal closures with significant values. Can you walk us through one of these high-stakes negotiations and what strategies you employed to ensure success?
This is with regards to one particular deal with a retail client of repute and where we had to work through various stages of negotiation:
In the first stage where we had marked up the contract we had numerous points and many were at high level and not necessarily very specific. In the discussions that happened we had a few disconnects with the opposing legal side and had to take many of the contentious points back to re-evaluate and come back.
We went back and weighed in our positions and options available with close interactions with all key stakeholders be it HR for transfer of people, IP team for intellectual property clauses, operations for service level agreements, finance for penalties and liquidated damages.
We aligned well and our revised positions meet the customer requirements for a successful tender without compromising the business and commercial interest of the organisation.
The strategy here was of striking the right balance in our high stake negotiation and also as a legal function being a business enabler which helped our company win such a prestigious deal.
You’ve worked closely with partners from top global law firms. How has this collaboration influenced your approach to legal practice and client representation?
Yes indeed as this has certainly being beneficial in not resolving complex issues arising from many of the company deals or disputes but has also helped in building lot of relationships across the industry where you personally have gained through knowing many of the partners, who are experts in their field of practice and have contributed immensely to the legal industry at large through their knowledge in fields of data protection, regulatory matters, employment claims and disputes and contract drafting and negotiations.
Given your experience with diverse regulatory matters, how do you stay ahead of the ever-changing legal landscape, particularly in areas like data protection and compliance?
Ever Changing legal landscape is quite fascinating as you understand the new age technology developments in artificial intelligence, data protection , intellectual property etc. With AI coming in a big way the work of a new age lawyer has become more challenging as now you need to become more aware and be more updated on the legal developments than ever before and one way of doing it is to attend as many knowledge disseminating seminars, workshops, summits as much possible and getting out of your comfort zone and walking the extra mile to know more about the technology and the business changes. Trainings are also an integral part in our company and there are various customised training programmes which are designed to help lawyers to go through and learn more on the development on the technology.
Finally, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates who are just starting out and aiming to build a successful career in corporate law?
I think the fundamental thing which is extremely important is the desire to learn and keep learning all the time. Be it research on tools or reading new articles or attending seminars, conferences, workshops etc. Also, please shed all inhibitions and please ask questions and not be shy about anything which apparently seems pretty straightforward as an answer. Also, be as scientific and as rational as possible and keep developing your strengths and improve on your weaknesses. The final point which I feel is highly critical is building relationships and knowing and understanding people from diverse fields in areas of work, though they may belong to different fields like being a technical architect or an enterprise risk manager or a information security associate. One will always do something again if they strike the right conversations.
Can you share with us the pivotal moments or experiences that led you to pursue a career in law, particularly in the FMCG and Pharma industries?
I grew up in a small town in Ratnagiri district in the Konkan area known as ‘Chiplun’. Despite my father being a practicing advocate I never wanted to be a lawyer in the first place; in fact I had taken a vow that I will be anything but a lawyer. One of the reasons for my aversion to pursue law was his unavailability for us due to his active law practice and socio political activities. He is revered and respected for the kind of work he has done for the poor litigants and for uplifting the life of people at our ancestral village. However during my childhood days I did not have full understanding and always ran away from the thought of following his footsteps.
During school days I always used to be part of the class which used to be known as ‘good’ or having kids which are generally above ordinary. However there was nothing spectacularly great about myself. This continued till class 12 wherein I followed the herd mentality and did what was considered as ‘good’ and ‘intelligent’ but not necessarily ‘my calling’.
The pivotal moment came after my 12th Standard exams (which I pursued from science stream with both biology and mathematics as preferred subjects to do what was popularly known as keeping doors open for both medical and engineering courses). After my 12th exams I happened to read an extremely good article which emphasized building on your core strengths rather than weaknesses. The article mentioned about Sachin Tendalukar; how not everyone can be like him but at the same time how we can be ‘Sachin Tendulkar’ of our own field. Suddenly things became clear to me and forced myself to do honest introspection. I accepted the reality that I was not cut out for science stream and in fact had leanings towards language based subjects which I either did not realize or accept as a reality since it was not a very popular choice in the circle I used to feel I was part of.
I decided to pursue law and applied for a five year LLB course at the only law school I had visited till that time during one of my previous summer vacations in Mumbai…the legendary Govt Law College, Mumbai in the year 2002.
Life changed 360 degrees after getting into law school. I loved my subjects and they loved me back..this had never happened during my science stream subjects. This further opened up my thought process and I naturally ended up putting more effort not only in my studies but also in extra curricular activities such as Moot courts. I was part of the Moot Court committee as well and participated actively in organizing National & International Moot Court Competitions.
Transition from Chiplun to Mumbai was not easy in the initial days but I was fortunate to have formed some really good friendships which helped me settle down in Mumbai comfortably. After more than 2 decades those friendships have only grown over a period of time like an old wine.
Another pivotal event happened in the year 2007 during the campus interview rounds in our college. That year luckily we had companies like HUL and Marico participate in the placement rounds. To try my luck I participated in the placement rounds and was shortlisted for interviews by both these companies. I was selected by Marico and I happened to be the only one from that year’s batch to have been picked up by Marico. That was a very surreal moment in my life and I still remember the reactions from my family and friends who were really happy for me. That’s how my career in the FMCG industry started.
Just like the way I was fortunate to get into pursuing law; I believe I was blessed to have started my in-house legal career with Marico. I learnt some of the best lessons needed to be learnt by a fresher regarding the profession and business both. After spending almost 4 years with Marico; I moved on to join L’Oreal as I was keen to have work exposure in a global MNC at that time.
With almost 10 years in the FMCG industry having dealt with Food and Cosmetics in detail, I was keen to explore and broaden my horizons. At the same time I did not want to explore a completely different sector from the perspective of building my long term credentials in the Industry and hence when Sanofi approached I took up the opportunity as Pharma always appealed to me due to the complexities that a legal professional gets to handle.
With over 16 years of experience, you’ve navigated through various legal landscapes within the Indian Sub-continent. How do you approach the unique challenges presented by each industry you’ve worked in?
The legal landscape in each of the industries I have been associated with has been varied and full of its own unique challenges but doing the right thing at the right time with the right amount of effort has worked for me throughout my career so far. Not just the legal landscape but the working cultures have been different in each of the companies I had the opportunity of working… Indian, European and now US.
All of us have a unique way of doing things but when we are working in a culturally and ethnically diverse organization, quick adaptability is important along with emphasis on putting organization interest at the forefront always.
Throughout your career, you’ve held significant roles in notable companies such as Colgate-Palmolive, Sanofi, L’Oreal, and Marico. How have these diverse experiences shaped your perspective on legal counsel within the corporate environment?
I consider myself fortunate to have started my career with Marico and not just that but with a legal team that was led by Mr Amit Rai (Director Legal- Bennett Coleman & Co- Times of India Group). Amit set the tone for my journey as an in-house legal counsel who works closely with business to understand its pulse and in fact works like a business lawyer.
As you evolve as an in-house legal counsel and chart your way towards the GC roles, it is important to pick up the best from your previous experience and apply it at your current workplace to amplify the learnings.
Luckily in all my stints so far I always got the opportunity to work on the most difficult transactions and situations which have helped me sharpen the saw with each set of experience I have had.
Given your extensive involvement in contract drafting, negotiations, and litigation management, could you share some strategies or best practices you’ve developed to ensure effective legal support for business operations?
Attention to detail is non negotiable for a lawyer. As an in-house counsel and especially in the FMCG space there are always too many things happening one at the same time. This is a very potent ground for missing the key details and hence mastering the artwork of prioritization and stakeholder expectation management is essential.
Building your own network of reliable lawyers and firms is extremely critical in high stake matters and situations.
There are a lot of things that we do not learn in law schools, drafting and negotiation skills are one of them which are extremely critical for good in-house legal counsel. There is a reason why our profession is termed as ‘practice’ for independent professionals and personally I do not consider myself any different when it comes to possessing these skill sets. We have to keep practicing and learning to ‘sharpen our saw’.
As someone who believes in working with an entrepreneurial mindset, how do you balance legal compliance with fostering innovation and growth within your respective organizations?
Focus on ‘doing the right thing’ for the organization and ‘zero tolerance for non-compliance’ helps you set the boundaries. Once you know your boundaries, understanding the opportunities to stretch your boundaries becomes much easier.
You’ve been instrumental in various initiatives such as setting up joint venturentities, launching new products, and resolving long-standing legal disputes. Can you walk us through a particularly challenging project or situation you’ve faced and how you approached it?
As an in-house legal counsel in the FMCG and Pharma industry you are always dealing with some or the other crisis. However I would like to share one of the experiences which really helped me shape my thought process very early during my career.
During my Marico days I was responsible for Food Adulteration Act (Now known as Food Safety Act) Cases in the West And South region of India. There were multiple litigations and we needed concentrated efforts to close them. As a young lawyer I traveled to remote corners of Andhra Pradesh and Orissa (at times traveling through Naxal infested areas without even knowing about it). I learnt that at some of these places local lawyers were actually struggling or avoiding final hearings due to the sensitive nature of the PFA matters. We helped these lawyers with updated case laws and argument notes. As a result we were able to close at least 5 litigations in a year’s time.
This experience taught me very early in my career about the value add we can bring as an in-house legal counsel in the litigation matters and since then I have always adopted this approach to work with my local lawyers across the country.
Throughout your career, you’ve received several recognitions and awards for your contributions, including the Chairman’s You Can Make a Difference Award and being recognized as a Game Changer. How do you stay motivated and continue to excel in your role despite the inevitable obstacles and setbacks?
I love what I do and hence the quantity of work load does not really bog me down. This is very interesting because at one point of time I seriously hated the thought of being a lawyer. My take away from this is that whatever happens in life happens for good and this attitude helps me keep a positive framework of mind and work better especially during challenging situations. I work with the principle of ‘deliver to delight’ which I learnt in Marico. My focus is to give my best in any given situation and my organizations have been kind enough to recognize my efforts. Last year I received 40 Under 40 by Legal Era and the award was picked up by my wife as I was traveling for work. My family is my biggest cheerleader and the one which keeps me grounded as well. My father is most difficult to please and has set very high standards for professional excellence.
Lastly, with your wealth of experience, what advice would you offer to law graduates aspiring to follow in your footsteps, particularly those interested in pursuing careers in corporate law within the FMCG and Pharma industries?
First and foremost; enjoy the 5 or 3 years of your law course..they are never going to come back again in your life.
Spend time on understanding your subjects; if the foundation is good the building can get taller and taller.
It’s better to spend time in the library than doing an internship for the sake of it.
People know where you stand on the subject matter expertise in the first 2-3 mins of your conversation. Spend time on building your expertise and your communication skills. That’s your bread and butter for life as a lawyer.
Lastly, I would like to share that we are all unique in our own ways. We should strive to find that unique quality and build on our strength rather than weakness.
Can you share what initially inspired you to pursue a career in law and how your journey began?
By a stroke of fate, I found myself on the path to becoming a lawyer just a day before my 12th-grade results. It was a decision made by my father and sister to guide me towards law instead of medicine. Little did I know that this unexpected turn would lead me to a remarkable legal journey. Was fortunate to meet some great people and books in the legal field.
I pursued a Bachelor of Laws degree from Shivaji University in Sangli, Maharashtra. Subsequently, I pursued a Master of Laws in Business Law at Symbiosis Law School, where I had enriching experiences such as internships with the Competition Commission of India, contributing to international publications, and engaging in advanced legal research.
My time at Symbiosis Law School marked the beginning of a remarkable professional journey. I ventured into the corporate sphere, contributing to esteemed organizations such as Kirloskar Brothers Limited, John Deere India, Thermax Limited, and now, Bayer CropScience. Also got the opportunity to work with some great managers.
Your career spans various notable companies and roles. Can you walk us through the major milestones and transitions in your professional journey?
Well, there are many, but few are very special, like high stake arbitrations against dealers, NGO’s or PSU’s where you work hard and obtain favourable orders for your company. Arbitration requires continuance focus, as these matters are not time bound and will finish quickly.
Also implementing a compliances tool from scratch for manufacturing sites, establishments and EPC sites was a great learning experience. Further, implementation of new legislations like HSRP, EPR, Legal Metrology Packaging Rules too enriching experience. Last year I received an award by Legasis for ‘40 Under 40’.
I started my corporate journey with a capital goods manufacturing and EPC company, where I delved into the intricacies of commercial contracts, navigated complex real estate issues, and delved into the realm of Patents and Trademarks. This experience laid the groundwork for my subsequent endeavors, as I transitioned to an automobile company, where I gained invaluable insights into legal operations, statutory compliances, MACT and labour cases, advising on employment laws, and the complex web of EHS regulations.
In my subsequent roles within the power/renewable sector, I found myself immersed in a range of commercial disputes spanning India and various regions across the globe. This journey also brought me face to face with the complexities of MSME and IBC issues, enriching my understanding of the multifaceted legal landscape.
Currently, I stand as a Legal Business Partner for Legal Operations, overseeing sites and their litigations, navigating the contracts, and ensuring adherence to employment laws and EHS regulations.
As the Legal Business Partner at Bayer CropScience, what are some of the key responsibilities and challenges you face in leading legal operations in India?
The role of a Legal Business Partner is to serve as a strategic advisor and collaborator within a business, working closely with various stakeholders. Being a part manufacturing site’s leadership team- understand business needs, collaborate and advise on varieties of issues like License to operate, show cause notices from Govt. authorities, leading arbitration/litigation, dealing with complex real estate issues, negotiating commercial contracts & compliances advice.
India Legal operations have unique challenges- first, Regulatory Complexity- Navigating the intricate web of laws and regulations at the national, state, and local levels, as well as the dynamic nature of regulatory changes, can pose significant challenges for legal operations. Second, Compliance Management-Ensuring real time compliance with a wide array of statutory and regulatory requirements, including labor laws, environmental regulations, tax laws, and industry-specific regulations, requires robust compliance management systems and processes.
You have many notable achievements in resolving high-stake litigation. Can you tell us more about these experiences and what they entailed?
It was a profound experience. It demands a strong legal strategy. Further, it involves analyzing complex legal issues, anticipating opposing arguments and being ready with counter strategy. Being an in-house counsel you have to explain the complex business issue to the lawyer in a simple way and explain complex legal issues to business in a simple way, that is the advantage of being an inhouse counsel. It will also teach you resilience in intense pressure, tight deadlines, and the need to maintain composure. Being a meditation teacher is an advantage.
You will soon find that the reward for good work is more work.
However, I personally believe that litigation and arbitration are expensive, and the recent Mediation Act will play an important role in future legal disputes.
Given your extensive experience in various sectors like agriculture, renewable energy, and manufacturing, what are some unique legal challenges you’ve encountered in these industries?
In any manufacturing industry, more or less, 3 tasks are always there, 1. Employment Laws: Adhering to labor laws, industrial relations, and employment regulations, including issues related to labor disputes, contract labor, and workplace safety, presents legal challenges for manufacturing industries. 2. Product Liability and Consumer Protection: Managing product liability risks, compliance with consumer protection laws, and addressing consumer grievances and product safety standards are critical legal considerations for manufacturers. 3. Environmental Compliance and Pollution Control: Ensuring compliance with environmental laws, pollution control norms, hazardous waste management, and addressing industrial pollution concerns are significant legal challenges for manufacturing entities.
This is not about legal operations, but I believe we should have an institute or organization for in-house legal counsel, similar to those for other professions. This would help in the growth and development of in-house legal counsel.
Compliance with regulatory requirements is a critical part of your role. How do you ensure that your company stays ahead of regulatory changes and maintains compliance across various legal domains?
Technology plays an important role here. We have good numbers of compliance management tools in India, which monitor thousands of compliances and hundreds of legislations in real time. Further, the tool needs to be updated with the latest legislation. In my personal opinion no tool will work on its own, it is people who make the tool work. The success of a tool will depend on how simple and convenient the tool is. Also, we need to acknowledge employees’ efforts on compliances and compliance needs to be celebrated.
Shifting gears, GenAI has the potential to significantly impact legal compliances, it can predict and monitor compliance trends, anticipate regulatory changes, automated compliance reporting and provide Compliance Training. Inhouse counsel needs to take the advantage of the GenAI, my current organization offers a ‘Prompt engineering’ course to employees.
Finally, what advice would you give to fresh law graduates who are about to embark on their legal careers, especially those interested in working in-house within corporate legal departments?
In corporate you need to have Business Acumen, understanding the broader business context, including financial implications, risk management and strategic decision-making. You also need meaningful collaboration. Start your journey being a generalist and then move to specialist. And keep enrolling to new courses/programs.
Hello and welcome, today, we are honoured to have with us Mr. Aditya Parolia, who is one of the leading counsels in India for Corporate, Commercial, Real Estate and consumer disputes.
Sir, could you kindly share your professional journey with us? We would be particularly interested in learning about what motivated you to pursue a career in law. Furthermore, what inspired you to specialize in corporate, commercial, real estate, and consumer disputes?
Frankly, when I started pursuing law, it was not a common career choice. I don’t recall anyone in my immediate or extended family being a lawyer.
Coming from a small town, the focus was predominantly on engineering. Schools and colleges emphasized preparing students for IIT and AIEEE exams. In 11th and 12th grades, I chose PCM with computers, expecting to follow the engineering path. However, it never felt right to me. I strongly believe in not pursuing something that doesn’t feel correct.
In those days, if you told someone in a small town you were studying law, they often thought you were either not very bright or one of the unruly students who couldn’t handle math or science. My school, an ICSE board school, had a particularly bright batch. One of my batchmates topped the country in the 12th exams and got into IIT. The first seven students in my batch secured good ranks in AIEEE.
When I informed my principal and class teacher about my decision to pursue law, my class teacher was supportive. However, my principal and relatives tried to counsel me, arguing that I was a bright student and should consider other career options. At that time, many schools in small towns didn’t even offer humanities, let alone law. They only had science and commerce sections, so law wasn’t a natural choice for me initially.
Fortunately, my father was working in Delhi and interacted with many bureaucrats whose children were studying law. He suggested it to me, and it resonated. I found it interesting when I started reading about it. In my hometown, the district court wasn’t even called a district court—it was known as the “divani kachahari.” The infrastructure was poor, and the earning potential for lawyers was low, making the profession unattractive. Few people knew about national law colleges, and entrance exams often clashed, forcing students to choose between them.
I’m grateful to my parents for supporting my decision to pursue law. Career counselors in schools rarely mentioned law as an option; it was often seen as a last resort. Most would suggest commerce, DU, or competitive exams like UPSC, but not law. Few in my town could name more than a couple of famous lawyers like Mr. Jethmalani, Mr. Salve, or Mr. Sibal. Today, social media and online court proceedings have increased awareness about the legal profession, but back then, it was quite limited.
Given these circumstances, I chose to study at Indraprastha University in Delhi, which had only five seats for students from outside Delhi. I believed being in the capital, where all courts are located, would be beneficial. At that time, the concept of corporate practice in law was not well-known to us.
I’m very happy with my decision to pursue law. My younger brother also followed this path and became an Advocate on Record (AOR). Today, in my hometown, there are several law coaching institutes, but during my time, I had to travel to Jaipur or Delhi for preparation. I finished my board exams in March, and the first law entrance exam was in early May, giving me only a month to prepare. Now, there are more resources and opportunities for aspiring law students in small towns.
Sir, you have made history and continue to do so, and we hope that you keep making history so that we can proudly say we had the chance to interact with you. You have handled cases for around 73,000 aggrieved home buyers. On that note, Sir, we request you to share your experience managing such a significant number of cases, which is no easy feat. Could you please discuss the challenges you faced and the types of cases that arose from this scenario?
Furthermore, we would love to understand how you became involved in such a substantial case and how you have helped these home buyers. This is a crucial matter, as for many, purchasing a home is a lifetime investment and a matter of survival. Although people may have more options today, I am certain that you are highly respected by those 73,000 home buyers for your efforts.
Yes, today we can confidently say that we are leading practitioners in this domain. We likely have the highest number of clients in the country, spanning every sector and segment of society. Our clientele includes politicians, actors, retired judges, bureaucrats, corporates, high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), and private induvials as well. We do not like to say no to anyone who approaches us for help.
When we began this practice, we did not specifically aim to specialize in this domain. In litigation, we initially took on every kind of case that came our way. Litigation is not easy; it demands immense effort and versatility. As a renowned lawyer once told me, litigation is like digging a well every day to fetch water, only to start anew the next day.
A good friend, who was my batchmate, once shared a piece of wisdom that remains close to my heart. He said, “Aditya, everyone wants to specialize in something, but in law, you don’t choose your practice area. It’s like a democracy where people choose for you.” This insight resonated with our experience, as our practice evolved naturally based on the cases that came to us.
We initially handled a wide array of cases, including civil cases, criminal bail applications, and matrimonial matters. We travelled frequently to places like Allahabad and Chandigarh. However, due to our court engagements in Delhi, I hardly travel now. During this time, the real estate market was booming, and we began to receive more cases related to this sector.
The real estate market was characterized by rapid buying and selling, often driven by speculative investments. However, there was no regulatory regime in place, leading to overselling and eventual stagnation. This lack of regulation, coupled with the greed of builders, caused numerous projects to halt. As a result, many homebuyers were left without the properties they had paid for.
During this period, a prominent family from Bollywood approached us with a case against a builder, JP. This was in 2014-15, and the builder had failed to deliver the property by the promised date in 2011. Initially, we suggested using the Consumer Protection Act, but the client wanted to involve other affected buyers. We were surprised to find that there were 242 such buyers. This marked the beginning of a new jurisprudence in India, where class actions became more prevalent.
As we took on more cases, our practice grew rapidly. We handled high-profile cases, such as those against Amrapali, and our numbers swelled to the point where we had to expand our team significantly. At one point, we had to manage an influx of 3,000 clients in just seven days, which was a logistical challenge.
Our firm has since become a leading name in handling real estate and commercial disputes. We have played a significant role in shaping the legal landscape in these areas, with our cases often resulting in landmark judgments. Today, our team has grown to around 40-45 members, and we continue to manage a high volume of cases daily.
Despite the challenges, we are grateful for the trust our clients have placed in us. We always strive to give our best, though it’s impossible to satisfy everyone. The sheer volume of documents we handle is immense, and we have undoubtedly made our ragman very wealthy.
In conclusion, while we never anticipated specializing in this domain, it has become our primary focus over the past eight or nine years. We are proud of our contributions to the field and grateful for the opportunities that have come our way. Our practice continues to thrive, driven by the love and support of our clients and the dedication of our team.
Sir, it appears that your specialization chose you, and now you are recognized as the leading authority in this particular legal domain. The remarkable success you have achieved is not only a result of divine favor but also due to the hard work and dedication of your team towards home buyers.
During this journey, you have been highly active in national media, frequently being invited as a special guest on various channels to discuss legal matters.
In light of your experiences and insights, what do you believe are the most pressing issues of national importance in the current legal landscape? Considering the disruptions we are witnessing in the legal field, what future developments do you foresee, especially given your role as a prominent disruptor in this domain?
Nobody can foresee the future; I can assure you of this. Nobody can predict deception. I’ll take your questions one by one, in bits and pieces, but I’ll start from the end with the disruption part. Very frankly, as I said, I did not choose it, nor did we; the people chose it for us. We were just there at the right place at the right time. I always tell everyone that you just have to keep working hard. The Almighty has written your destiny, my destiny, everyone’s destiny. So, if you’re working hard, you’re moving towards your goal.
When destiny knocks on your door, and you’re there to open it and seize the opportunity, that’s all that is required. If you’re sleeping and waiting for the day to come before you act, it never happens. I’ve worked with some of the best lawyers as a student, and I didn’t work much as a junior or younger colleague. I barely did my traineeship for six months before we decided to open this law office. I’ve always taught my younger colleagues that while you have to put in constant effort and energy, consistency is key. You never know when that door will open or when someone will knock.
You mentioned the future. Everyone predicts that AI is the future, so you can pursue laws in AI. When I was a student, everyone thought arbitration and intellectual property rights were the right fields to pursue. There are hundreds and thousands of domains nobody has explored. For instance, we specialize in the Consumer Protection Act and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). Nobody in law school considered a career in these areas because they weren’t even established back then. The Delhi Commercial Courts Act wasn’t there either. So, what went right for us? We were consistent. When opportunity knocked, we seized it and delivered results with a pragmatic approach, informing clients about what could and couldn’t be done. We never assured anyone of a specific outcome because, in law, it’s unethical to do so.
I’ve also tried my hand in matrimonial law, although I no longer practice it. I respect my sister, who does, because dealing with such cases is not easy. It involves handling emotional trauma, and it takes a significant mental toll. I’ve seen the best lawyers struggle with this.
Speaking of the future again, AI is a rat race. Students come to me for internships or interviews saying they want to do IBC or intellectual property rights. But I tell them what my dean at law school, Simon Chesterman, told me: read something new and try something different. For example, sports law is a burgeoning field with the rise of leagues like the IPL and Kabaddi. Few lawyers practice it, and it has huge potential. Similarly, gambling laws and laws related to cryptocurrencies are emerging fields.
I’ll give you an example. Two of my law school classmates are now policy lawyers at Twitter and Facebook. When we were in law school, we never considered such careers. These social media companies have to adhere to national policies and constantly engage with regulators. Policies vary from country to country, and what’s banned in one place might not be in another. This was a domain we never imagined practicing in.
So, I tell every student to keep their mind open. Don’t decide in your first year of law school that you’re going to be a litigating lawyer or a corporate lawyer. Explore different areas and see what resonates with you. Recently, a younger colleague at our firm realized litigation wasn’t for him and decided to pursue academia. There’s no harm in that. A good lawyer can excel in various fields, not just in corporate or litigation.
During a tour in Istanbul, I met a lawyer from Chile who was pursuing his master’s in Germany, specializing in Antarctic law, dealing with exploration and sovereignty rights. These are areas most law students wouldn’t even consider. When I did my master’s, I studied aviation law and space law, which are hardly taught in Indian law schools. Today, with the rise of electronic vehicles and companies like SpaceX, these areas are very relevant.
Younger students should consider these emerging domains. If they work hard and stay consistent, they will do exceptionally well. It’s important to understand the practice area you’re entering.
Regarding media and news channels, the glamour initially attracts everyone. It’s an opportunity for exposure. When the real estate market crashed and big companies like JP and Amrapali failed, we were called upon to address these issues on news channels. The insolvency laws were new, and there were few experts. But over time, I’ve stopped going on news channels unless it’s something very special. It’s important to balance professional and personal life and give adequate time to family, not just focus on career.
I hope I’ve answered your question about media involvement.
Sir, considering your emphasis on maintaining a balance between personal and professional life, my next question pertains to that topic.
Firstly, how do you achieve this balance? Secondly, once you find that balance, what activities do you enjoy outside of learning about law? For example, you mentioned gaining insights into Antarctic law and sovereignty rights through your travels. Sir, we would love to hear more about this, as it will help our learners understand the various pursuits they can engage in besides studying law.
It’s 5:40 PM, Madam. By this time, I start packing my bag. The maximum usual time for me to leave the office is 6:30 PM, and I believe my team should also leave around this time. I think my team leaves by 7:30 or 8:00 PM. It is very important that we manage our time. Unfortunately, in our profession, we often talk about stipends and salaries, but we rarely discuss mental health and well-being.
I believe that once you balance your time with your family, your mental well-being will improve. This is hardly discussed, and I am a strong advocate for maintaining a perfect balance between professional and personal life. Although I am relatively young in this profession, I have seen a lot with my batchmates, peers, and the opportunities we have had. We have the chance to argue cases against the best senior advocates in the country. Every day, we appear in almost every appellate court, which allows us to interact with top equity partners and law firms. However, I feel that younger lawyers, and we as lawyers, often get lost in the race to make more money or excel in a particular field, leading to burnout. Many of my law school batchmates have experienced this.
Despite not being in practice for long, some of the youngest lawyers I know have burned out and left traditional domains of law. Some have moved to in-house positions, opened their own smaller practices, or left law entirely for academics. I don’t understand people working until 11:00 PM or getting up at 4:00 AM every day. If you wake up at 4:00 AM to do yoga or go for a walk, that’s fine. If you play sports, that’s even better. But I don’t appreciate people calling me after 6:30 PM. Some clients criticize this because they get free from work late, but I tell them that their lack of time management shouldn’t affect my personal life. I am in the office from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. You can email me, but I will only work during these hours. If I need to prepare for the next day, I might spend an extra half hour or an hour at night reading files, but I will not jeopardize my personal life for others’ lack of time management.
A friend of mine, a very gifted lawyer, joined a good law firm and recently got married. He used to come home at 12:00 am, 1:00 am and at times 3:00 AM, by the time he was up the next day, his wife, who is not a lawyer, was leaving for work. Their entire married life was in turmoil. This story is not unique; many people have told me the same thing. I asked another senior friend about this, and we concluded that the work can often be done earlier. However, delegating tasks to younger colleagues at 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM with deadlines of 2:00 AM or 3:00 AM is unrealistic and has become a norm. Trying to satisfy clients by delivering work quickly in this competitive spirit often brings out the worst in us.
Some of the best lawyers suffer from poor mental health, although it is rarely discussed. I’ve seen younger lawyers develop health issues like high blood pressure and diabetes. I don’t understand why. In law firm culture, I see this problem as well. I run a law firm, and I tell new hires that while we have designations like associate, senior associate, and principal, I am against this hierarchical structure. It is there to keep people happy because they want it, for me a lawyer is a lawyer, designations create unnecessary competition.
Think about it: if you make lawyers partners at 33 or 34, they have to work until 60. After becoming a partner, their next goal is to become an equity partner. This constant pursuit can diminish their determination, which symbolic goals are achieved so early. You fight to become a partner, and once you achieve that, you might lose the drive. It’s essential to manage your career and life, rather than getting caught up in the rat race of titles and designations.
Advocates getting designated as senior advocates is different from the law firm hierarchy of associate levels. I believe law firms need to appreciate and possibly do away with this quick succession of designations, adopting a more uniform approach to maintain mental health and well-being.
There’s an unnatural competition that develops, not just with other law firms but internally, where people vie to become senior associates or managing partners. This should be addressed and highlighted. We need to educate the younger generation that these titles mean nothing if you are not mentally healthy. If you are a good lawyer, success will come no matter what. Don’t get caught in the race for titles. Judges & clients don’t care about your title, it is not that you are getting knighted; they care about your ability to argue a case well and get results.
The best lawyers always maintain a balance between their professional and personal lives. This profession is a marathon, not a sprint. Your family has supported you, and you have duties towards them. They need your time, and you should fulfill their expectations as well. Dedicating equal time to family is important for your mental peace.
I’m not saying I am perfect or never get angry, but my partner and I strive to go home early. When we are in the office, we are dedicated to work, but we also play sports, travel with our families, and socialize with our teams. Striking this perfect balance is crucial.
Sir, considering that some individuals may not enjoy the same privileges as others have had, how do we address this disparity to ensure that new entrants experience similar support and care, particularly those from humble backgrounds who rely on community support? Additionally, do you foresee an increasing focus on mental health discussions within the legal fraternity in the near future?
“It is imperative that senior members of the bar and the judiciary engage in discussions on crucial topics with the younger generation. It is necessary to elucidate to them that not everyone needs to possess luxury items such as a Mercedes or a Patek Philippe watch. Even individuals from humble backgrounds can thrive without such extravagances. This mindset shift is essential.
During informal discussions outside the courtroom, I always emphasize to judges the importance of not berating younger lawyers but instead offering them opportunities.
Now, turning to the pressing issue of mental health, it is vital for everyone to understand that not all legal paths lead to high-profile cases or lucrative positions. Each individual’s journey in the legal profession is unique, filled with its own challenges and struggles.
For instance, third or fourth generation lawyers from legacy families face immense pressure to live up to their predecessors’ reputations. Similarly, first-generation lawyers bear the weight of carving out their own paths in an unforgiving profession. It’s crucial for the younger generation to realize that success in law comes in various forms and that comparing oneself to others’ glamorous achievements only tells part of the story.
My own journey began without a personal vehicle, and relying on buses and metros to commute. However, through perseverance and interactions with seasoned professionals, I learned that success in law is not solely determined by material possessions or prestigious cases.
For instance, one of my professors from law school Professor Umakanth Varottil, a renowned expert in mergers and acquisitions, transitioned from a successful legal career to academia, demonstrating the importance of evolving and adapting in one’s professional journey.
The pressure to excel in high-profile areas of law, such as mergers and acquisitions or banking and finance, can be overwhelming for young lawyers. However, it’s essential to remember that success is not defined by early career choices or external validations.
The legal profession requires mentorship that emphasizes dedication and consistency over the pursuit of superficial markers of success. Additionally, maintaining good mental health is paramount, as undue stress and burnout can have severe consequences.
In conclusion, aspiring lawyers should focus on honing their skills, serving their clients diligently, and maintaining their humanity above all else. Success in law is not measured by material possessions or prestigious titles but by one’s integrity, dedication, and contribution to society.”
You’ve had an illustrious career spanning various sectors including telecommunications, e-commerce, and disaster management. What initially drew you to the field of law, and how has your legal background influenced your approach to corporate affairs and public policy?
Two decades back I started my career as a lawyer from Lucknow Session court under the senior ship of Advocate Askari Anwar known for his legal intelligencia and criminal trials in Judiciary. Got my first case of a poor boy who was in judicial custody for a month as his widow mother had no money & resources to help his 18 years old son arrested for the scuffle during a cricket match with the son of an influential local municipal corporator. Advocated the case in court and bailed him out on the first hearing for which I got the Prasad of Hanuman Mandir and blessings from the mother of my client as the legal fee of my first case.
It is pertinent to mention that I got the legal fraternity in legacy, my grandfather and father were both prominent lawyers of their times. My father Late Haider Yaqoob Advocate was known as the legal pillar of the Medical health department, Govt of UP having expertise in service and waqf laws. Continuing my rich legal legacy I appeared in several matters in Hon’ble High court, Lucknow bench and set the new success stories specially in cyber laws cases with the rapid relief to my clients.
In 2006, I started getting the cases from the corporate organisations & got the opportunity to set the new benchmarks of success. I was the pioneer of telecommunication Lok Adalat, by organising the first Lok Adalat in Lucknow to resolve the recovery cases of Reliance communication pending since long.
Noticing legal acumen and rapid legal remedials I was approached by Mr Anil Ambani’s office directly and has been offered to join Reliance Communication as legal Manager for Uttar Pradesh. After several brainstorming sessions with my family and seniors in the fraternity I stepped into the corporate domain and joined RCOM.
During the job era in Reliance, created a large network of lawyers covering all the districts of Uttar Pradesh and delivered remarkable results in the telecommunication domain which resulted in the garnering of additional new responsibilities of Corporate & Government affairs in the organisation. Utilising the legal acumen rapid results could be delivered in consumer forum, State Commission, NI Act, Recovery suits, Labour cases and matters related to IPC etc.
Later on, I was offered a job by several corporate houses and have worked with Tikona Digital networks , Reliance Jio, Vodafone Idea, Walmart’s Flipkart, Inmobi Group.
As a leader in both the Legal & corporate sectors, you’ve played a pivotal role in bringing about positive change in Uttar Pradesh. What advice would you offer to aspiring professionals looking to make a similar impact in their communities, especially fresh Law graduates & Lawyers to enter in corporate affairs careers?
I believe that transitioning from a legal career to corporate affairs can be a natural progression for lawyers looking to broaden their skill set and explore new avenues within the business world. Corporate affairs professionals play a crucial role in managing an organization’s relationships with stakeholders, shaping its public image, and navigating complex regulatory landscapes.
Lawyers bring valuable skills to this role, including legal expertise, analytical thinking, and the ability to navigate intricate regulatory frameworks. They may leverage their understanding of laws and regulations to ensure the company complies with relevant requirements and mitigate legal risks. Additionally, their experience in contract negotiation, dispute resolution, and problem-solving can be beneficial in addressing various challenges that arise in corporate affairs.
Transitioning to corporate affairs may involve acquiring additional skills such as communications, public relations, and strategic planning. Networking, professional development opportunities, and gaining practical experience in corporate settings can help lawyers successfully make this transition. Overall, the move from a legal career to corporate affairs offers lawyers a chance to apply their skills in new ways and contribute to the success of organizations in different capacities.
Throw some light on how you have been instrumental in leveraging telecom, e-commerce platforms to empower artisans and MSMEs & overall society in Uttar Pradesh, thereby contributing to entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment. What strategies do you believe are crucial for ensuring the sustained growth for the society through corporate initiatives?
Other than my regular job practices, I always focus on bringing transformation in society by changing the livelihood of common men, empowering women and introducing sustainability models by virtue of corporate domain resources.
I am glad to share that using personal connections and intervention in the corporate world more than one thousand youth of Uttar Pradesh have been employed in different corporate companies so far.
Played a prominent role in changing the livelihood of thousands of artisans & MSMEs of Uttar Pradesh by supporting them through E-commerce platforms which expanded their reach nationwide and increased their products visibility and revenue in high numbers, promoted entrepreneurship and women empowerment.
Using my E-commerce strength, also gave a new height to UP ODOP program through Online digital selling of ODOP products, I was instrumental in boosting the sale of ODOP products in thousands of crores which was appreciated by hon’ble Prime Minister Modi during GIS 2022 at IGP Lucknow, ODOP products sale on Flipkart is only more than 2500 crore in last 3 years. Also developed a dedicated ODOP & Khadi storefronts for online sale with worldwide access. This initiative was appreciated by Hon’ble CM Yogi and Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh as well.
I also supported the farmers and agriculture system of Uttar Pradesh by doing the capacity building and making farmers Samarth for showcasing, expanding their agriculture business at national level by the help of online platforms and opportunities.
I opine that society development through corporate excellence and initiatives involves leveraging the resources, influence, and innovation capabilities of corporations to address social challenges and contribute to the overall well-being of communities. Here are some ways this can be achieved:
1. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Programs:- Education and Skill Development: Companies can invest in educational initiatives, providing scholarships, building schools, and offering vocational training to improve local workforce skills. Healthcare Initiatives: Corporations can support healthcare by funding hospitals, running health camps, and promoting health awareness programs. Environmental Sustainability: Implementing eco-friendly practices and supporting environmental conservation projects can help tackle issues like climate change and pollution.
2. Inclusive Business Practices: Fair Trade and Ethical Sourcing: Ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions in supply chains supports economic development and reduces poverty. Local Hiring and Procurement: Prioritizing local hiring and sourcing from local businesses can boost local economies and create job opportunities.
3. Innovation and Technology: Tech for Good: Developing and deploying technologies that address social issues, such as renewable energy solutions, healthcare innovations, and educational tools, can drive societal progress. Research and Development (R&D): Investing in R&D for products and services that meet the needs of underserved communities.
4. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with governments and NGOs to implement large-scale development projects, such as infrastructure development, public health campaigns, and educational reforms.
5. Philanthropy and Corporate Foundations: Establishing corporate foundations that focus on specific societal issues, providing grants, and supporting non-profits and community-based organizations.
6. Employee Engagement: Encouraging and facilitating employee volunteerism, where employees contribute their time and skills to community projects and initiatives.
7. Sustainable Business Practices: Implementing sustainability practices that reduce environmental impact and promote long-term ecological balance, benefiting both the company and society.
8. Impact Investing: Investing in social enterprises and projects that aim to generate both financial returns and positive social impacts, such as affordable housing, clean energy, and sustainable agriculture.
9. Advocacy and Leadership: Using corporate influence to advocate for policies and regulations that promote social equity, environmental protection, and economic inclusivity.
By integrating these strategies into their core operations, corporations can play a pivotal role in societal development, creating a positive impact that extends beyond their immediate business interests.
Your role in supporting the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including sourcing essential medical supplies and arranging transportation, demonstrates a unique intersection of corporate and social responsibility. Could you share some insights into how corporate entities can effectively collaborate with government bodies during crises like the pandemic?
During covid times using corporate excellence and connects, we as a team acted as a support system for the government and society, hundreds of Modern Ventilators, Oxygen concentrators, numerous Oxygen plants, lakhs of PPE kits, N95 masks and other preventive goods were arranged by us through different corporate houses which saved the lives of people in large numbers. We played the role of saviour by the arrangements of dedicated commercial aircraft which bought covid goods from the foreign lands to India.
Corporate entities can support government efforts during a crisis through a variety of proactive and strategic initiatives. Here are several ways they can come forward:
Financial Contributions and Donations, Providing Goods and Services, Essential Supplies, Critical services like telecommunications, transportation, and healthcare support at no cost or reduced rates, Logistical and Operational Support, Supply Chain and Distribution, Facility Use – Make company facilities available for emergency use, such as converting office spaces into temporary shelters or medical facilities, Technological Assistance, IT Infrastructure-Provide technological infrastructure and support, such as cloud services, data analytics, and cybersecurity measures, to help manage crisis response. Innovation and Development – Develop and deploy technology solutions, such as apps for crisis communication, contact tracing, or resource allocation, Human Resources and Expertise, Skilled Volunteers Consultation and Training, Public-Private Partnerships, Community Engagement and Support, Awareness Campaigns, Research and Development- Innovative Solutions: Invest in R&D to develop new technologies and solutions that can aid in crisis management and recovery. This includes everything from medical research to environmental technologies, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives- Crisis Focused CSR- Integrate crisis support and disaster relief into CSR programs, ensuring sustained engagement and support during and after crises . By taking these few steps, corporate entities can significantly bolster governmental efforts during crises, leveraging their resources, expertise, and infrastructure to provide comprehensive and effective support.
Your advocacy for environmental sustainability, including your initiatives like installing anti-pollution air purifiers near the Taj Mahal, highlights the importance of corporate leadership in addressing pressing societal issues. How can corporations effectively balance profitability with environmental stewardship?
Sustainable Practices by corporate organisation is a mandate of late, Promotion of sustainability and resilience in business operations helps to mitigate future crises, particularly those related to environmental and climate-related challenges.
Adopting sustainability practices in business operations offers numerous benefits to corporations, including:-
1. Cost Savings: Sustainable practices like energy efficiency, waste reduction, and resource optimization can significantly lower operating costs over time. 2. Brand Reputation: Companies committed to sustainability can enhance their brand image and attract customers who prioritize environmental and social responsibility. 3. Regulatory Compliance: Proactively adopting sustainable practices helps businesses stay ahead of environmental regulations, reducing the risk of fines and legal issues. 4. Competitive Advantage: Sustainability can differentiate a company from its competitors, appealing to a growing market segment that values ethical practices. 5. Employee Engagement: A commitment to sustainability can boost employee morale and attract talent, as many workers prefer to be associated with socially responsible companies. 6. Investment Attraction: Investors are increasingly looking for sustainable businesses, as these are often seen as lower risk and more future-proof. 7. Innovation and Efficiency: Sustainability initiatives can drive innovation, leading to the development of new products and services and improving operational efficiencies. 8. Risk Management: Sustainable practices can help mitigate risks related to resource scarcity, supply chain disruptions, and climate change impacts. 9. Long-term Viability: By focusing on sustainability, companies ensure they are not depleting resources needed for future operations, supporting long-term business success.
These benefits collectively contribute to a more resilient, profitable, and socially responsible business model.
With your extensive experience in corporate affairs and public policy, particularly in the realm of telecom, e-commerce and AI domain, what are your inputs and suggestions to make Uttar Pradesh as an AI & Digital hub of nation ?
Firstly thanks to the Government of UP for notifying the UPAI committee consisting AI experts from different tech companies to be part of the AI journey in Uttar Pradesh. Furthermore, We need to create an AI ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh and transforming Lucknow into an AI-powered city requires a multi-faceted approach involving government, industry, academia, and the public. Here are some key initiatives that could help achieve this vision:-
Establishment of AI COE in Lucknow.
Education and Skill Development centre for AI ,AI-focused Curriculum: Integrate AI and data science courses into the educational curricula of schools, colleges, and universities.
Training Programs: Launch vocational training programs to reskill the existing workforce in AI technologies.
Research Centers: Establish AI research institutes in collaboration with top educational institutions to foster innovation and development.
Policy and Regulation: AI Policy Framework: Develop a comprehensive AI policy framework to guide the ethical and sustainable use of AI technologies.
Industry Collaboration: Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage partnerships between the government and private sector to fund and develop AI projects.
Start-up Ecosystem: Create a conducive environment for AI start-ups through incubators, accelerators, and funding opportunities.
By undertaking these initiatives, Uttar Pradesh can pave the way to becoming a leading AI state, enhancing the quality of life for its residents and positioning itself as a hub for technological innovation.
Lastly, tell us about your legal, corporate journey and what honorary positions you are holding in the government domain? And drawing from your rich and diverse experiences, what advice would you give to recent law graduates or young professionals aspiring to pursue a career path similar to yours, particularly in navigating the complexities of corporate affairs and public policy while staying true to their values and principles?
I am currently serving as the Director Corporate Affairs, in Inmobi group, India’s first unicorn and now a double unicorn with Glance also notching up incredible growth in less than two years since its inception. Have held leadership positions in north India leading telecoms, E-commerce companies, industry bodies, chambers and as a think tank. Currently Chairman of UP E-commerce & logistics council, Honorary advisor to District Disaster Management Authority, LKO, Govt of UP & Advisory Member on AI -I T & Electronics Department, Govt of UP.
Holds Masters in Human Resource management, bachelor in Laws, Journalism experiences, my penned down articles widely published and a leading voice for developing countries and emerging economies on digital economy, global markets, deepening democracy, political economy, media ecology, disruptive technology, regulatory affairs and public policy. My interest is only to serve the nation through my Corporate excellence as my professional expertise has always directed towards serving both people and the state, signifying a commitment to social responsibility and community welfare. By fostering legal acumen, ethical business practices, prioritizing employment of youths & well-being, and actively engaging in philanthropy, have contributed in societal development of state. My approach has led to economic success with broader social and governmental objectives, creating a harmonious balance between corporate growth and public welfare. Have been admired by Hon’ble Governor of UP, Deputy CM, Several Ministers and Govt stakeholders at several instances for his dedicated contributions for the upliftment of state and bringing glory to Uttar Pradesh through his corporate excellence!!
Answering the second part of the question, I think building a career in corporate affairs while maintaining ethics, principles, and values involves a multifaceted approach. Here are some key strategies to help youths in achieving this:
1. Professional Integrity:
– Adherence to Ethics: Always adhere to a personal code of ethics and the ethical guidelines of your profession.
– Transparency: Be transparent in your communications and actions. Build trust by being honest and straightforward.
– Conflict of Interest: Avoid situations where personal interests might conflict with professional responsibilities.
2. Building Relationships:
– Networking: Build a network of like-minded professionals who value ethics and integrity.
– Mentorship: Seek mentors who exemplify ethical leadership and can guide you in your career.
– Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with stakeholders ethically, ensuring their needs and concerns are addressed fairly.
3. Corporate Governance:
– Best Practices: Advocate for and implement best practices in corporate governance within your organization.
– Policy Development: Develop and enforce policies that promote ethical behaviour and compliance with laws and regulations.
– Ethical Leadership: Lead by example, demonstrating ethical behaviour in all professional activities.
4. Ethical Decision-Making:
– Decision Frameworks: Use ethical frameworks and decision-making models to guide your actions.
– Long-term Perspective: Focus on long-term benefits rather than short-term gains, ensuring decisions are sustainable and ethical.
– Accountability: Hold yourself and others accountable for ethical behaviour. Encourage a culture of accountability within your organization.
5. Communication Skills:
– Clear Communication: Communicate clearly and honestly with all stakeholders.
– Crisis Management: Handle crises ethically, ensuring transparent communication and accountability.
– Reputation Management: Maintain and protect the organization’s reputation through ethical practices.
6. Regulatory Compliance:- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
By integrating these strategies into your career development, you can build a successful career in corporate affairs while maintaining your ethics, principles, and values. Remember, consistency in ethical behaviour not only builds personal integrity but also fosters a trustworthy and sustainable business environment.
