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Minister Mohammed Riyas: Championing Sustainable & Inclusive Tourism

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Kerala is redefining global standards in sustainable tourism under the leadership of Tourism Minister Mohammed Riyas. The state’s Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission is driving positive change by empowering local communities and promoting eco-friendly travel. With key initiatives such as coastal tourism development, adventure tourism, and enhanced air connectivity, Kerala is catering to a diverse range of travelers, including those seeking destination weddings and wellness retreats. By prioritizing women’s safety, infrastructure advancements, and innovation, the state envisions becoming a world leader in beach tourism, adventure sports, and wellness, ultimately fostering economic growth and job creation.

Pioneering Responsible Tourism

Kerala has long been at the forefront of sustainable tourism, setting high benchmarks through its Responsible Tourism (RT) initiatives. From implementing eco-conscious policies to launching innovative tourism projects, the state continues to push boundaries, attracting both domestic and international visitors. In an exclusive conversation, Kerala’s Tourism Minister, Mohammed Riyas, shares his vision for the future, emphasizing responsible travel and efforts to make tourism more inclusive and accessible.

Minister Riyas believes that tourism should be community-driven and environmentally responsible. “Tourism isn’t just about bringing in visitors; it should also uplift local communities. That’s why our Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission plays a crucial role,” he states.

The RT Mission connects local artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs with the tourism industry, ensuring that tourism benefits extend to the grassroots level. The initiative also addresses waste management, green certification for destinations, and the ‘No Plastic During Travel’ campaign, which aims to reduce plastic waste and encourage sustainable tourism practices.

“Over 1,200 hotels and resorts, along with 240 travel agents, have committed to responsible tourism principles through the RT Mission’s Certificate of Association. It’s a collaborative effort uniting businesses, tourists, and local communities to create a sustainable travel experience,” Minister Riyas explains.

Expanding Tourism Through Innovation

Kerala is actively diversifying its tourism offerings to attract new segments, including Destination Weddings, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), wellness tourism, and adventure tourism. Minister Riyas highlights the importance of innovation in marketing:

“We don’t just wait for tourists to come; we proactively engage with creative campaigns. Our active participation in international and domestic travel trade fairs, social media initiatives, and unique promotional strategies ensures that ‘Destination Kerala’ remains a globally recognized brand.”

To enhance accessibility, Kerala is improving its air connectivity and inter-destination travel infrastructure. Several new projects under the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIFBI) aim to modernize roads, bridges, and public transport systems, making travel within the state more seamless and comfortable.

Coastal Tourism: Unlocking Kerala’s Shoreline Potential

With a 580-kilometer coastline, Kerala’s beaches have been a major attraction for centuries. The government is now investing heavily in coastal tourism, ensuring that its beaches are well-maintained and sustainable.

“We already have two Blue Flag-certified beaches—Kappad and Chal—and are working on certifying more. Kovalam, one of our most iconic beaches, is undergoing a major infrastructure revamp. Additionally, we are developing new coastal destinations such as Beypore, Chaliyam, Cherai, and Muzhappilangad,” Minister Riyas reveals.

With these strategic initiatives, Kerala is on track to becoming one of the world’s premier beach tourism destinations.

Adventure Tourism and Floating Bridges: A Game Changer

Adventure tourism is another area where Kerala is making significant strides. The state has introduced comprehensive guidelines to ensure adventure activities are both exciting and safe.

“Our adventure tourism sector is thriving, with events like the Varkala International Surfing Festival, Malabar River Festival, Wayanad Mountain Terrain Biking, and Vagamon Paragliding Festival drawing enthusiasts from around the world. Floating bridges, which have gained popularity, are further transforming Kerala’s tourism landscape,” Minister Riyas notes.

Although concerns about safety have been raised, the Minister reassures that Kerala has some of the country’s strongest safety protocols, making it a secure and thrilling destination for adventure seekers.

Prioritizing Women’s Safety in Tourism

Kerala is dedicated to making tourism safer and more accessible for women travelers. Minister Riyas underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that female tourists feel comfortable and secure, even at night.

“Kerala is already one of the safest states in India, but we are taking additional measures to enhance night travel safety. This includes better street lighting, increased police patrolling in tourist areas, and women-friendly spaces,” he explains.

The government is also introducing women-only taxi services, secure accommodations, and digital safety tools to ensure that solo female travelers and women’s groups can explore Kerala with confidence.

Strengthening Infrastructure for Tourism Growth

As both the Public Works and Tourism Minister, Mr. Riyas is focused on ensuring that infrastructure development aligns with tourism growth. He recognizes that improved roads, highways, and public transport are essential to maximizing Kerala’s tourism potential.

“We are enhancing the three key pillars of tourism—Accessibility, Attractions, and Amenities. Through initiatives like the Destination Challenge Project, we are introducing new attractions while upgrading existing ones. Our holistic approach ensures a seamless and enriching experience for travelers,” he states.

A Bold Vision for Kerala’s Tourism Future

Looking ahead, Minister Riyas envisions Kerala emerging as a global tourism powerhouse. He outlines ambitious goals for the next five years, stating:

“Tourism will soon become Kerala’s largest revenue generator, creating thousands of jobs and driving economic growth. Our vision is to establish Kerala as the world’s top beach resort destination, a premier hub for adventure tourism, a nightlife hotspot, and a global leader in wellness, Ayurveda, and medical tourism.”

Beyond traditional tourism, Kerala is focusing on women-friendly travel, tourism startups, and urban tourism innovations. Projects like ‘Illuminating Bridges and Buildings’ will add artistic elements to Kerala’s cities, enhancing the visitor experience.

From Campus to Cabinet: The Journey of Mohammed Riyas

Minister Mohammed Riyas’s journey is shaped by strong values instilled by his parents. His father, a former Police Commissioner, was known for his integrity and discipline, while his mother’s fearlessness influenced his straightforward approach to life.

Riyas’s political journey began in his school days, joining the Student Federation of India (SFI) in the 6th standard. His passion for politics grew, leading him to become a student leader by the 8th standard. His active participation in student movements solidified his belief in the power of collective action.

Sports also played a significant role in shaping Riyas’s personality. He excelled in multiple disciplines, particularly chess, where he became the State B Chess Champion and even had the opportunity to play against Viswanathan Anand—an experience he cherishes.

Despite growing up in a diverse society, religious and caste differences never defined his friendships. “Back then, friendship came first, and everything else was secondary,” he reminisces.

Life took a dramatic turn when Riyas was jailed following a student protest. “It was a turning point in my life—one that tested my resilience and conviction,” he says. The experience reshaped his perspective, making him more grounded and determined.

Reflecting on his journey, Minister Riyas believes that success is not measured by achievements alone but by the relationships built, struggles overcome, and lessons learned along the way.

With strong policies, strategic investments, and a commitment to sustainability, Kerala is not just preparing for the future of tourism—it is setting the global standard.

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True Legacy: CA. Sreejith Kuniyil’s Approach to Securing Wealth and Protecting Futures

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CA. Sreejith Kuniyil’s presence alone—marked by a warm smile and a firm handshake—instills confidence and ease in any business conversation. As a dynamic entrepreneur with a diverse skill set, he has ventured into paths less explored, crafting an extraordinary journey. His visionary efforts have led to the creation of one of the country’s most harmonious and efficient business ecosystems, setting a benchmark for innovation and success.

From Humble Beginnings to Global Expertise

Growing up in a family that ran a small business, Sreejith quickly learned the value of hard work and ambition. However, he realized that true growth would come from professional education. Driven by this belief, he pursued a career in Chartered Accountancy. His journey took him through renowned global firms like EY, KPMG, Deloitte, and Grant Thornton, where he gained invaluable experience working with multinational clients and large Indian corporations. His expertise spanned complex areas such as restructuring cross-border operations, crafting mergers and acquisition strategies, business restructuring, and handling tax litigation. These experiences laid the foundation for his successful entrepreneurial path.

Forging a Legacy in Business Consulting

With over two decades of experience in consulting and advisory roles at Big Four firms, Sreejith embarked on a transformative journey in 2018 by co-founding CAPITAIRE alongside two partners. The firm was established with a clear vision: to deliver integrated value to the business community. By 2020, Sreejith took the helm independently, propelling CAPITAIRE to prominence as a trusted name among business leaders.

Today, CAPITAIRE stands as Kerala’s premier business and capital consulting firm, renowned for its innovative and impactful solutions. Known as a hub for entrepreneurial brainstorming, it has become the go-to destination for transformative ideas and strategic growth. CAPITAIRE’s core mission is simple yet profound: to protect entrepreneurs and empower their businesses to thrive.

Redefining Business Growth

Years of market experience revealed a key challenge for entrepreneurs: capital. But capital isn’t just about funding—it encompasses building robust systems, processes, and resources. CAPITAIRE has been instrumental in helping businesses prepare for capital investment, structuring organizations to enhance share value, and developing systems that ensure sustainable growth.

Beyond growth, CAPITAIRE focuses on safeguarding entrepreneurs’ assets, implementing succession planning to protect both their capital and their families. Unlike traditional consultants who often work solo, CAPITAIRE takes a collaborative approach. Its core team comprises seasoned Chartered Accountants and finance professionals with deep expertise in tax and regulatory frameworks, ensuring strategies are not only innovative but also actionable.

Breaking New Grounds

In 2020, Sreejith launched PravasiTax, a pioneering tax advisory platform tailored for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Having lived as an NRI himself, Sreejith recognized the gap in understanding the complexities of tax regulations, especially regarding banking, real estate investments, stock markets, and income generation for NRIs. Consultants specialized in International Taxation, FEMA, Tax Treaties, Inheritance Laws, and Income Tax Law were in high demand. This need for a focused, expert approach became evident as penalties increased from mishandled notices and tax-related communications. Drawing on his international tax expertise, Sreejith and his team of Chartered Accountants were able to provide secure, comprehensive tax and regulatory solutions for NRIs, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.

Securing Wealth and Legacy

Many individuals, no matter where they live, strive to create a better life for their families, often sacrificing their own well-being in the process. However, in the pursuit of wealth, they frequently overlook securing their assets and ensuring they are passed down as intended. Recognizing this gap, Sreejith founded True Legacy, a platform dedicated to developing and executing succession planning strategies for business owners and High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs). Through True Legacy, he created tailored solutions for structuring Family Private Trusts, Family Offices, and Wills, ensuring that assets and income are smoothly transferred to the rightful heirs. Furthermore, to empower business leaders and reduce their dependency on consultants, he introduced FINTAXMAN. Through this initiative, he offered masterclasses that equipped entrepreneurs with the knowledge of financial and tax management, helping them gain control over their businesses.

Nurturing Human Capital

Sreejith holds a firm belief that people are the most valuable asset for any organization. Despite the rise of AI, he continues to prioritize human potential, aiming to grow his team and help others build their own. Recognizing the shortage of skilled financial professionals for his ventures and clients, Sreejith created the AFM (Ascent to Finance Manager) module under the Special 40 initiative. This program aims to upskill 40 students in 60 days, equipping them with essential financial knowledge for business success. Sreejith’s dedication to addressing problems head-on is clear through his proactive approach in shaping the next generation of financial leaders.

Additionally, Sreejith is working on his upcoming book, Why Commerce?, set for release in the coming months. This guide explores post-Class X educational options, focusing on the commerce stream, and provides valuable career guidance by evaluating the pros and cons of various professional fields.

Roots and Growth

Although many questioned his decision to base his operations in Kochi, Sreejith takes immense pride in establishing his roots in Kerala. Despite the allure of more lucrative markets in other states, he remained committed to ensuring that his home state benefited first from his entrepreneurial journey. Today, his ventures have expanded into the GCC countries, including the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. A firm believer in solo leadership, Sreejith values the flexibility it provides, enabling him to seize opportunities and bring ideas to life swiftly.

The Pillars of His Strength

At the heart of Sreejith Kuniyil’s success is the unwavering support of his family. His wife, Sowmya, formerly a teacher, now serves as a Director at PravasiTax. Recently, she was one of the contestants in the Mrs. Kerala 2024 beauty pageant, where she won the Best Smile award. Their son, Nakul, currently a Class 1 student, has a keen interest in quizzes and trivia, and his enthusiasm adds joy and energy to the family’s journey.

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Symbol of Distinction: Alcazar Watches

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In the world of luxury, exclusivity distinguishes you and defines your identity. Picture adorning your wrist with a mark of uniqueness, unmatched sophistication, and exquisite artistry. This is where Alcazar Watches come into play. More than just a brand, Alcazar represents a legacy in the making, expanding the limits of exclusivity through the visionary insights of entrepreneur Dr. Ajit Ravi. Crafted under the banner of Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, these remarkable timepieces embody class, elegance, and unparalleled craftsmanship, representing a true legacy.

With only six watches created from each of its two models worldwide, Alcazar provides an extraordinary sense of rarity. Each piece in this opulent collection stands as the pinnacle of refinement, artistry, and sophistication. These watches transcend mere accessories; they are timeless masterpieces that serve as the ultimate wrist adornments.

The Vision Behind Alcazar Watches

Alcazar Watches was born from a deep understanding of a timeless truth: time is one of life’s most precious assets, and how we choose to represent it reflects our very essence. For Dr. Ajit Ravi, a watch is not just a tool for keeping time, but an intimate expression of one’s identity, character, and values. He sought to create something beyond mere functionality, merging sophistication with masterful craftsmanship. As the visionary entrepreneur puts it, “A watch should do more than just tell time; it should capture the very spirit of it.”

An Ode to Mastery in Watchmaking

Each Alcazar Watch is a true work of art, meticulously crafted with an unwavering focus on detail. From the selection of the finest materials to the intricate mechanisms that lie within, every design reflects a perfect blend of precision and artistry, showcasing its uniqueness. Alcazar Watches celebrate elegance and innovation, featuring premium leather straps for lasting comfort and a sophisticated appearance. The stainless steel 304L casing offers a sturdy, corrosion-resistant shell that gleams on your wrist for years to come.

Powered by the reliable Miyota Japan Movement Golden Rotor, each timepiece features automatic winding, utilizing wrist movement to keep the watch running without the need for manual winding. With 21 jewels, the intricate movement is engineered to minimize friction, ensuring both precision and smooth operation, making each watch a remarkable style statement.

The sapphire glass guarantees that every Alcazar Watch remains scratch-proof, maintaining its aesthetic allure for years ahead. Every piece in this collection is meticulously crafted, providing an ownership experience that goes beyond the ordinary luxury goods.

Timeless Elegance for Every Taste

Alcazar’s collections are designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes. From classic, understated designs to bold, avant-garde creations, each watch is crafted with care to suit individual preferences. These exclusive watches will be bestowed upon individuals of distinguished profiles, each with assets exceeding 100 crore, ensuring that ownership is as rarefied as the watches themselves. Each piece is meticulously crafted, celebrated through a grand hand-over ceremony, and further authenticated with the owner’s name proudly displayed on the official Alcazar website. More than just accessories, these watches symbolise personal legacy and individuality. Yet the true magic of Alcazar Watches is in their rarity. These chronikers are among the most exclusive in the world.

A Timepiece That Represents Legacy

Alcazar Watches go beyond mere timekeeping; they evolve into cherished heirlooms that can be passed down through generations. Particularly with their limited-edition models, these watches offer more than a symbol of status—they represent a lasting legacy.

The desirability of these pieces lies in their rarity. Envision a world where only 12 individuals can own one of these exquisite designs. This exclusivity is not just a marketing tactic; it reflects a deeper philosophy. Dr. Ajit Ravi envisioned creating a timepiece that could be revered as a work of art, rather than just a fleeting trend. As he aptly puts it, “Owning an Alcazar isn’t about following trends—it’s about creating them.”

Elegance in Its Purest Form

One of the defining characteristics of Alcazar Watches is the balance between understated elegance and striking design. The beauty of an Alcazar Watch lies in its ability to blend seamlessly into any occasion while standing out in its craftsmanship. Whether worn with a formal suit or a casual ensemble, Alcazar Watches elevate the wearer’s presence. It’s a statement of luxury that doesn’t need to scream. It whispers.

Alcazar: The Dream Realized by a Visionary

At the forefront of this exceptional brand is Dr. Ajit Ravi, a visionary whose impactful work spans a variety of fields—from international pageants to philanthropy—earning him widespread recognition. With Alcazar Watches, he merges his love for luxury with his entrepreneurial ambition, creating a groundbreaking concept in the horology industry.

Under his stewardship, Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd has flourished into a dynamic empire that prioritizes exclusivity, craftsmanship, and rarity. Alcazar Watches are a testament to this vision—showcasing a collection that embodies the core values Dr. Ajit Ravi holds dear.

Chronicles of Your Life in Every Tick

Each Alcazar Watch is not only a reflection of time, but a reflection of the wearer. For those who seek something truly personal, the brand offers the option to engrave a name or a unique symbol on the watch. This personalisation transforms an already rare watch into something uniquely yours—a timepiece that tells your story.

Imagine owning a watch where not only the design is rare, but the very engraving speaks of your personal journey. Alcazar Watches are more than collectibles—they are part of life’s greatest moments.

The Ultimate Expression of Luxury

In an ever-changing world of trends, Alcazar Watches emerge as a beacon of timeless elegance. Each timepiece crafted under the Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd name transcends mere accessory status—it’s a legacy, a hallmark of distinction. As Alcazar continues to flourish and gain acclaim, one thing is clear: while time advances, Alcazar Watches will forever symbolize lasting sophistication.

For those lucky enough to own one of the 12 remarkable timepieces, Alcazar embodies much more than luxury; it signifies a lifestyle, the grace of time, and the exclusivity of a heritage whose value remains unwavering with the passage of time.

The Mastery of Timepiece Creation

Alcazar Watches, guided by the philosophy of “Where Time Becomes Art,” has truly transformed the landscape of luxury horology. The defining characteristic of Alcazar Watches is its remarkable exclusivity—each model is limited to just six pieces across two distinct designs, ensuring that no two are alike. To enhance this rarity, upcoming releases will include unique, one-of-a-kind timepieces crafted in gold and adorned with diamonds, representing the pinnacle of luxury and an ultimate symbol of wealth. Through unparalleled precision, rarity, and craftsmanship, Dr. Ajit Ravi has created more than just a brand; he has established an extraordinary legacy that will be cherished for generations.

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Adv Dr P Krishnadas: A Legacy of Purpose and Innovation

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Robin Sharma, a leading figure in leadership and the author of “The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari,” once remarked, “The great and glorious legacy of a human being is to live with purpose.” This philosophy deeply resonates with Adv Dr P Krishnadas, the driving force behind the renowned Nehru Group of Institutions. Adv Dr Krishnadas is not only continuing the illustrious legacy of his father, P K Das, who founded the Nehru Group in 1968, but is also forging ahead with a unique blend of traditional values and modern innovation. As he navigates the evolving landscape of education, his vision and purpose remain central to his leadership. In this exclusive interview, we explore the inspiring journey of this distinguished edupreneur and polyglot, uncovering his core principles, strategic approaches, and global impact as a pioneering educational leader.

Your father, the late P K Das, laid the foundation for the Nehru Group of Institutions. How has his vision influenced your leadership?

My father was a self-disciplined individual who, through his service in the Air Force, embodied the principles he espoused. He was sincere and hardworking, leading his team from the front with unwavering dedication. His visionary approach and guiding principles continue to inspire and motivate us. One of his greatest aspirations was to bring higher education to the grassroots. His vision has profoundly influenced my leadership style and continues to guide me forward.

What are the core values that guide your decision-making process as the Chairman of the Nehru Group of Institutions?

My core values centre around a deep commitment to teamwork, making decisive and proactive choices, and relying on core competencies. I firmly believe that collaboration and collective effort drive success, and I prioritise making informed decisions with foresight and conviction. Additionally, I focus on leveraging core strengths and expertise to achieve optimal outcomes and drive progress.

The Nehru Group has grown significantly over the years, with institutions spanning various
disciplines. What strategies do you employ to maintain educational excellence across such a diverse portfolio?

The Nehru Group of Institutions is committed to upholding the highest quality standards through stringent accreditations and the implementation of relevant courses and programs. Our primary goal is to boost students’ employability by honing their skills and supporting their comprehensive personal development.

How do you see the role of digital transformation in your institutions?

While we enthusiastically embrace digital transformation, our institutions are dedicated to preserving the essential balance between technological innovation and the human touch. We ensure that digital tools and resources are used to enhance, rather than replace, the personal interactions between students and teachers. Our goal is to integrate technology in a way that supports and enriches the learning experience while maintaining strong, individualised student-teacher relationships and a supportive educational environment.

How has membership in the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF), one of the world’s most exclusive clubs, influenced your professional network and opportunities? How does it benefit the Nehru Group and your broader initiatives?

Being a member of the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF) is a prestigious honor that connects us with top business leaders and influential global figures. This platform facilitates valuable exchanges of ideas and collaborations aimed at societal progress. Winning the Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award has greatly elevated my profile, broadening my network and strengthening my international connections.

How does the Nehru Group balance its commercial success with its commitment to social responsibility?

The Nehru Group of Institutions adeptly balances commercial success with a deep commitment to social responsibility and philanthropy. From its inception, the Group has been devoted to extending higher education opportunities to grassroots communities. This commitment is reflected in our active participation in a range of social and charitable initiatives, including the P K Das Bhavana Padhathi (a home for the homeless), Snehanidhi (supporting elderly and destitute women), the P K Das Best Faculty Awards, and the P K Das Best Doctors Award, among others. We also conduct various healthcare programmes that benefit society at large. Additionally, the Nehru Vigyan Scholarships provide crucial support to deserving students, ensuring that quality education remains accessible to all. Beyond education, we have diversified into sectors such as Paints Manufacturing, Engineering and Construction, Pharmacy Chain and Trading.

The Paint manufacturing Division Blitz Paints, focuses on specialty coating and the decorative paint market. The R&D centre is dedicated to innovatively seeking new paint technologies, formulas, or applications, staying ahead of industry trends. The EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) Division of our All Care Builders and Traders (I) Pvt. Ltd offers comprehensive services for infrastructure projects, including engineering design, project and procurement planning, and construction services. The Pharmacy Division of All Care Pharma is all about providing high quality pharmaceutical products and exceptional customer service, while promoting health and wellness in the communities we serve. It provides prescription and OTC medications, health and wellness products, and the trading and maintenance of medical equipment. This division plans to open 50 stores throughout Kerala by 2026. Our unwavering dedication and passion for success across all these ventures, allow us to not only achieve commercial success but also make meaningful contributions to society.

The P K Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Hospital is a significant part of your father’s legacy. How does the institution embody his vision for accessible healthcare? What are your future plans for its development?

P K Das, the esteemed Founder Chairman and my father, envisioned establishing a super-specialty hospital in his hometown, Vaniyamkulam, recognising that people in the area often had to travel long distances, even to Coimbatore, for quality medical care. The P K Das Institute of Medical Sciences stands as a testament to his visionary legacy, providing high-quality healthcare accessible to the common man.

To honour this vision, the hospital is steadfast in its commitment to expanding and enhancing its services. This includes a strategic focus on strengthening key departments, particularly Oncology and other super-specialty areas, to ensure they remain at the forefront of medical innovation and patient care. In tandem with these developments, the associated Medical College has undergone significant transformation, evolving into a fully-fledged undergraduate and postgraduate teaching hospital. These comprehensive advancements are designed to elevate the institution’s capacity to provide world-class medical care and education. By fostering cutting-edge research, offering state-of-the-art treatments, and nurturing the next generation of medical professionals, the institution continues to embody and advance the founder’s legacy of delivering accessible, advanced healthcare to the community. Now recognised as a Super Specialty Hospital and Medical College with 1,250 teaching beds with 28 departments, the institution stands as a beacon of excellence in the healthcare sector, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of medical science and education while maintaining its unwavering commitment to compassionate patient care.

What have been the most challenging moments in your career, and how did you overcome them?

Throughout my life, I have faced numerous challenges, with 2017 standing out as particularly significant. During that period, I tackled difficulties with maturity, composure, and a steadfast commitment to truth, which ultimately led to success. These experiences have been pivotal, fostering my personal growth and resilience.

You are well-versed in five languages, which is quite impressive. Could you tell us more about it and how it has enriched your professional and personal experiences?

Yes Certainly. My proficiency in English, Tamil, Hindi and Kannada apart from Malayalam has greatly enhanced my journey as an education expert. It allows me to communicate effectively with a diverse student body and faculty, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment. Personally, it has deepened my understanding of different educational philosophies and practices, enriching my approach to teaching and leadership. It’s a skill that not only broadens my professional horizons but also allows me to connect more meaningfully with individuals from various cultural backgrounds, ultimately contributing to a more global perspective in education.

With such a demanding career, how do you manage the work-life balance?

Work has always been my top priority and passion. At the same time, I cherish moments I spend with my mother, wife, children, brother, sister and their families and also with some intimate friends. My brother Dr P Krishnakumar is the CEO and Secretary of Nehru Group of Institutions and my sister is a renowned Gynaecologist who is also the Trustee of Nehru Group of Institutions. I make sure to dedicate a certain amount of time to work each day and I spend quality time with my loved ones also. This enriches my life and profession.

Recently, you were selected as the Honorary Trade Commissioner of Mauritius to India. And how do you think your role as Trade Commissioner can benefit both countries, especially in education?

I am deeply honoured to be selected as the Honorary Trade Commissioner to Mauritius-India. In this era of globalisation, where education is a key driver of progress, I believe my role as an Edupreneur positions me to significantly impact bilateral relations between Mauritius and India. My goal is to create new opportunities in the education sector, fostering collaboration that will benefit both nations. Education is the cornerstone of long-term economic growth, sparking innovation, strengthening institutions, and promoting social cohesion.

What are your key priorities for the Nehru Group of Institutions in the next decade?

The Nehru Group, with its 25 esteemed institutions across vital and impactful fields such as Engineering, Aeronautical, Aviation, Management, Medical, Nursing, Arts and Science, Law, Architecture, Pharmacy, Paramedical Sciences, and Physiotherapy, is poised to emerge as a University of Prominence and Importance. With strategic partnerships with major international universities, we are ready to take the next step in our journey, enhancing our global presence and educational impact.

Over the years, you’ve had the opportunity to meet and welcome many eminent personalities on your campuses. Could you share some memorable interactions with them and how these visits have impacted your institutions?

Throughout the years, the Nehru Group of Institutions has had the honor of hosting numerous distinguished personalities and organizing a wide range of national and international seminars, symposiums, and the esteemed P K Das Best Faculty Awards. These interactions have provided valuable learning experiences that have greatly enriched our community. They have fostered new collaborations, including student and faculty exchanges, which have significantly enhanced the reputation and demand for NGI colleges.

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