Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch 2023.pdf

www.ciolookindia.com
VOL-11 | ISSUE-08 | 2023
Fostering Avirat
Projects Solu ons as
A Beacon of Diversity and Inclusion for
Women Entrepreneurship
Dr
ngh
Seema
Know Your Leader
Comprehending the
Leadership Perspectives in
Digitally Advanced Industry
Admirable Aspects
Understanding the
Traits that
Signify Impeccable
Leadership
Approaches

WOMEN LEADERS REDEFINING THE FUTURE
remarkable evolution is underway in today's
Adynamic professional landscape. Hailing from
diverse backgrounds, women are rising to
leadership positions, shattering glass ceilings, and crafting
profound waves of change across various industries.
Unstoppable women leaders embark on an enthralling
journey through the lives, narratives, and achievements of
these exceptional women who have not only shattered
stereotypes but have also emerged as formidable leaders,
commanding respect and influence on a global scale.
This collection explores the core of resilience,
determination, and unrelenting ambition that characterizes
these women leaders. Their aspirations surpass merely
challenging the existing norms; they are rewriting the
narrative. Each woman featured in this collection has left an
indelible mark in her own distinct way, inspiring and
empowering others on their journey.
As we embark on this captivating expedition, readers will
encounter a rich tapestry of backgrounds, careers, and
experiences. These women leaders emerge from diverse
paths, ranging from CEOs and entrepreneurs to scientists,
artists, humanitarians, and more. What unites them is an
unyielding spirit that stands strong in the face of adversity.
'Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch' commemorates
their determination and commitment to the causes they
champion. They stand as trailblazers in their respective
domains, redefining the landscape for women in influential
positions. Their stories not only inspire but also call upon
the world to acknowledge and nurture the incredible
potential of women leaders.
Within this compilation, delve into the challenges these
women have surmounted, the milestones they have reached,
and the profound impact they continue to create in their
industries, communities, and the wider world. From
advocating gender equality and female empowerment to
fostering innovation and driving business success, these
unstoppable leaders are pioneers shaping our collective
future.
CIOLook India's exclusive edition transcends being just a
compilation of success stories; it stands as a tribute to the
escalating influence of women in leadership and a testament
to the boundless capabilities of female leaders worldwide.
Join us on this inspiring journey and explore the narratives
of those who have defied odds, dismantled barriers, and
emerged as leaders who are truly unstoppable. Enjoy the
voyage!
Gaurav PR Wankhade
Managing Editor

Articles
16 32
Know Your Leader
Comprehending the
Admirable Aspects
Understanding the Traits that
Signify Impeccable Leadership
Approaches
Cover Story
Fostering Avirat
Dr
ngh
Seema
08

20
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VOL-11 | ISSUE-08 | 2023
Fostering Avirat
Dr
ngh
Seema
Know Your Leader
Comprehending the
Admirable Aspects
Understanding the
Traits that
Signify Impeccable
Leadership
Approaches

Brief
Featuring
Avirat Projects Solutions
Dr Seema Singh,
Founder and Director
Dr Seema Singh, the Founder and Director of Avirat Project
Solutions, is really bringing future transformation in the educational
sector by her innovative ideas, meticulous attention to detail, and a
redefined approach to education and administration.
Company
Argus Partners
(Solicitors & Advocates)
The DM Company
MSG Global Solutions
India Pvt Ltd
Saikrishna & Associates
Nidhi Arya,
Partner
Richa Dhall,
Founder
Shefali Dash,
Human Resource Director
Stuti Dhyani,
Partner
Nidhi’s general corporate practice includes advising
corporate houses on day-to-day matters. She has also been
involved in various corporate transactions in the fields of
power, turnkey projects, and logistics.
Richa Dhall's The DM Company is a full-service digital
marketing consultancy with a bouquet of services to offer
to Startups, Small and Medium Businesses.
MSG Global, where Shefali is a HR Director, is a consulting,
implementation, and managed services provider that helps
companies improve their operational efficiency and decision-
making capabilities utilizing SAP technology.
Stuti Dhyani is an experienced Patent Attorney with a
demonstrated history of working in the IPR services
industry. Skilled in Patent Litigation, Prosecution, Legal
Research and Patent Contentious proceedings.
to Watch

Fostering Avirat Projects Solu ons as
Dr Seema Singh,
Founder and Director
CoverStory
Dr
ngh
Seema
Mo vated by a vision to
bridge technological gaps and
create sustainable solu ons,
Dr Seema Singh founded
Avirat Projects Solu ons.

A
Although we look at everything through a three-
dimensional prism, reality is multidimensional.
These multiple dimensions come from the multiple
perspectives developed by the brains and minds of distinct
individuals. Even if the traditional outlook may be
uninformed or misinformed of the ever-changing realities,
gender inequality could not, cannot, and will not be able to
stop the constantly progressing march of the unstoppable
women leaders into every sphere of human activities.
When Dr Seema Singh established her dream enterprise,
Avirat Projects Solutions, fighting against all odds, she
always knew that her fight wasn’t over yet. Or it had just
begun. Nonetheless, unforeseen obstacles, challenges, and
hurdles won’t be able to stop or discourage her.
Because, the inception of her journey with Avirat Projects
Solutions was fueled by a fervent passion for innovation
and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the
entrepreneurial landscape. Dr Seema says, “Motivated by a
vision to bridge technological gaps and create sustainable
solutions, I embarked on this venture.”
Determined to Shine
Being a female director in a dynamic industry, she faced
challenges that only fueled her determination to excel. Dr
Seema’s journey is a testament to resilience, strategic
vision, and unwavering dedication. “I believe in fostering a
collaborative and inclusive work environment, empowering
my team to surpass industry standards.” Overcoming
obstacles, she has cultivated Avirat Projects Solutions into a
beacon of success. “I am committed to inspiring others,
particularly women, to pursue their aspirations in the
entrepreneurial realm.”
Dr Seema’s story underscores the transformative power of
leadership, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of
excellence. Hats off to her!
Avirat Projects Solutions has emerged as one of the best
enterprises. Sharing the guiding philosophy that has
propelled their unstoppable success, Dr Seema says that at
Avirat Projects Solutions, their success is rooted in a
commitment to innovation, integrity, and client-centric
solutions. “Our guiding philosophy centres on embracing
change, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and
prioritizing client satisfaction.”
By assembling a team of dedicated professionals and
promoting a collaborative environment, they ensure that
every project exceeds expectations. Dr Seema ensures that
her team believes in adaptability, staying ahead of industry
trends, and maintaining the highest ethical standards. “This
relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with a focus on
client needs, has propelled us to be recognized as a world-
class enterprise, a testament to our unwavering
commitment to success,” says Dr Seema.
Prepared to Adapt
The entrepreneurial landscape is continually evolving.
Thus, according to her, remaining at the forefront of
innovation in the ever-evolving entrepreneurial landscape is
central to their approach at Avirat Projects Solutions. As a
Director, Dr Seema fosters a culture of adaptability and
foresight within the organization. “We invest in continuous
learning and development, ensuring our team is equipped
with the latest skills and knowledge. Regular industry trend
analysis and strategic collaborations keep us ahead of the
curve,” she informs.
I believe in leading
by example,
ins lling a sense of
purpose that
resonates
throughout the
organiza on.

Unstoppable Women Leaders to Watch

Embracing emerging technologies and encouraging a
dynamic mindset allows them to provide their clients with
innovative solutions. Their commitment to staying
adaptable, coupled with a proactive approach to change,
enables them not only to meet but exceed their clients'
expectations in this rapidly changing business environment.
Leading by Example
Dr Seema’s leadership style is often recognized as an
inspirational force behind Avirat Projects Solutions'
tremendous achievements. Shedding the light on the same,
she says that as a director, her leadership ethos revolves
around empowerment, collaboration, and fostering a shared
vision. “I believe in leading by example, instilling a sense of
purpose that resonates throughout the organization.”
Open communication channels are vital; Dr Seema
encourages diverse perspectives, ensuring every team
member feels valued. Team building is more than just a
concept; it's a continuous process of recognizing and
nurturing individual strengths.
She emphasizes a supportive environment where innovation
ﬂourishes and every team member is motivated to
contribute their best. “Our collective success stems from a
united commitment to excellence and a culture that not only
adapts to change but thrives on it, ensuring Avirat Projects
Solutions remains a dynamic and accomplished entity in the
business landscape,” she states.
The Transformative Power
The essence of women's business leadership lies in bringing
innovation and advancements by disrupting norms. In the
realm of business leadership, Dr Seema embraces the
transformative power of disruption and innovation at Avirat
Projects Solutions. As a female director, she advocates for
diversity, recognizing that unique perspectives drive
creativity and progress. Striking a balance between
advancing trends and meeting user demands involves a
keen understanding of market dynamics.
She says, “We prioritize active engagement with our clients,
staying attuned to their evolving needs. Simultaneously, we
foster a forward-thinking culture within our team,
encouraging them to explore new ideas and technologies.”
By combining a commitment to industry trends with a deep
understanding of user requirements, Dr Seema guarantees
that they position themselves at the forefront of innovation,
We priori ze ac ve
engagement with our clients,
staying a uned to their
evolving needs.

ensuring Avirat Projects Solutions remains a trailblazer in
delivering impactful and user-centric solutions.
Sustainability and environmental responsibility are crucial
aspects of modern entrepreneurship. Dr Seema, too,
ardently believes in them. She states, “At Avirat Projects
Solutions, sustainability is integral to our corporate DNA.”
As a director, she champions eco-conscious practices by
implementing energy-efficient technologies, reducing their
carbon footprint, and promoting waste reduction initiatives.
They prioritize suppliers with ethical and sustainable
practices, ensuring their ecosystem aligns with
environmental responsibility. Dr Seema adds, “Our
commitment extends to developing innovative solutions that
help clients meet their sustainability goals.”
By intertwining these principles into its operations, Avirat
Projects Solutions fulfils its social responsibility and
actively contributes to a greener, more sustainable future for
our community and the planet.
A Spectrum of Transcendence
Moreover, Dr Seema shares that at Avirat Projects
Solutions, their commitment to excellence and innovation is
exemplified across a spectrum of transformative projects.
“From pioneering technological advancements to
implementing strategic initiatives that redefine industry
standards, our focus remains on delivering exceptional
value to our clients.”
The collective success stories underscore their dedication
to pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and
consistently achieving remarkable milestones. These
endeavours showcase their capability to adapt to dynamic
landscapes and highlight team Avirat’s unwavering
commitment to setting new benchmarks in the industry.
In the realm of entrepreneurship, technology plays a
pivotal role in enhancing efficiency. Similarly, at Avirat
Projects Solutions, technology is the cornerstone of their
approach to entrepreneurship. As a director, Dr Seema
spearheads a tech-forward strategy that optimizes their
services and ensures relevance in the digital age. “We
harness cutting-edge technologies, from AI and machine
learning to data analytics, streamlining our operations
and enhancing efficiency.”
Constant Pursuit of Perfection
Continuous investment in research and development keeps
them at the forefront of emerging tech trends, allowing the
Avirat team to anticipate market needs. “This commitment
to technological innovation not only optimizes our services
but also positions Avirat Projects Solutions as a leader,
providing our clients with forward-thinking solutions in an
ever-evolving digital landscape,” says Dr Seema, who
ardently believes that the workforce is the cornerstone of
any successful organization.
She adds, “Our success is rooted in a vibrant company
culture that prioritizes the growth, skill development, and
empowerment of our workforce.” As a director, she
champions an environment where continuous learning is
celebrated. “We invest in comprehensive training
programs, mentorship initiatives, and opportunities for
professional development.”
Further, by encouraging open communication, they value
diverse perspectives, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
“Employee empowerment is central to our ethos; we
entrust our team with responsibilities, recognizing and
celebrating their contributions.”
This culture not only propels individual growth but also
ensures a collective synergy that drives the success of
Avirat Projects Solutions. Dr Seema states, “Our
commitment to the well-being and advancement of our
employees is a testament to our enduring success in the
dynamic business landscape.”

Outsmarting Obstacles
Avirat Projects Solutions has encountered challenges in
navigating the dynamic corporate sector that tested Dr
Seema and her team’s resilience and ingenuity. “While I
won't pinpoint a specific instance, our team's collective
ability to triumph over adversity is ingrained in our culture.
Faced with obstacles, we embrace a solution-oriented
mindset, fostering innovation and adaptability. The strength
lies in overcoming singular challenges and our continuous
commitment to evolving strategies and pushing
boundaries.” Dr Seema adds that this unwavering spirit,
embedded in the ethos of her team, reflects their capacity to
transform setbacks into opportunities, ensuring Avirat
Projects Solutions remains a pioneering force in the
corporate landscape.
The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped industries globally.
Navigating its challenges, Dr Seema guided her team to
swiftly adapt strategies to ensure business continuity. As a
director, she prioritized the well-being of her team,
implementing remote work protocols and fostering a
supportive virtual culture. She recalls, “We embraced
digital collaboration tools, ensuring seamless
communication.”
Strategic pivots were made to align services with clients'
evolving needs during the pandemic. Flexibility became
paramount, and they leveraged technology to maintain
operational efficiency. The crisis catalyzed innovation,
leading to the development of new solutions to address
emerging challenges. By fostering resilience and agility,
Avirat Projects Solutions not only weathered the storm but
emerged stronger, demonstrating an unstoppable leader and
her loyally committed followers’ adaptability in the face of
unprecedented global upheaval.
Leveraging the Phygital Convergence
Today, every business goes beyond the physical realm,
touching on digital transformation, constant consumer
engagement, and virtual user experience. Accepting this
fact, Dr Seema says that by confronting these critical
factors in their service offerings, they are at the forefront of
addressing the modern business landscape's digital
demands. They recognise the significance of digital
transformation and integrate cutting-edge technologies into
their service offerings.
I envision Avirat Projects
Solu ons as a beacon of
diversity and inclusion, se ng
precedents for women in
entrepreneurship.

“Our strategies prioritize constant
consumer engagement through
personalized experiences, leveraging
data-driven insights. Virtual user
experience is a key focus, ensuring
seamless interactions in the digital
realm,” says Dr Seema, who, being the
director, champions a forward-thinking
approach that positions their services at
the intersection of innovation and user-
centric design. By embracing these
critical factors, Avirat Projects
Solutions not only meets but exceeds
the expectations of its clients in an era
where the virtual and physical realms
converge.
Future with an Unlimited
Possibilities
Looking to the future, Dr Seema’s
vision for Avirat Projects Solutions
revolves around sustained innovation,
global relevance, and fostering a
paradigm shift in women's
entrepreneurial leadership. She aspires
to propel the company to new heights
of technological advancement,
contributing groundbreaking solutions
to global challenges. As a female
director, her commitment extends
beyond organizational success to
inspiring and empowering women in
leadership roles worldwide.
She says, “I envision Avirat Projects
Solutions as a beacon of diversity and
inclusion, setting precedents for
women in entrepreneurship,” and
concludes, “By cultivating a culture of
excellence and mentorship, I aim to
make a lasting impact on the global
landscape, encouraging more women
to break barriers and shape the future
of entrepreneurial leadership.”

Comprehending the
Digitally Advanced
Industry
In the modern digitally advanced industry, leadership perspectives have undergone a
significant shift. With the rapid pace of technological change, leaders need to be
more adaptable, innovative, and forward-thinking than ever before. Here are some of
the key leadership perspectives that are essential for success in the digitally advanced
industry:
Visionary Leadership: In the digitally advanced industry, leaders need to have a clear
vision of where their organization is headed. This requires a deep understanding of
emerging technologies, market trends, and customer needs. Visionary leaders are able to
identify new opportunities and create a roadmap for success.
They can give their organization a competitive advantage. By providing a clear direction
and inspiring innovation, they can help the organization stay ahead of the curve and
differentiate itself from competitors.
Visionary leadership is a style of leadership that involves setting a clear vision for an
organization and inspiring others to work towards that vision. Visionary leaders can give
their organization a competitive advantage. By providing a clear direction and inspiring
innovation, they can help the organization stay ahead of the curve and differentiate itself
from competitors.
Visionary leadership offers many benefits to organizations. By providing a clear vision,
inspiring and motivating employees, encouraging innovation, improving decision-
making, fostering adaptability, building a strong culture, and creating a competitive
advantage, visionary leaders can help organizations achieve success in today's dynamic
and competitive business environment.
16

www.ciolookindia.com 17
Know
Your
Leader

Collaborative Leadership: Collaboration is essential in the
digitally advanced industry. With so many stakeholders
involved in the development and implementation of new
technologies, leaders need to be skilled at building strong
relationships and working eﬀectively with others.
Collaborative leaders are able to build high-performing
teams and create a positive work culture.
Agile Leadership: The digitally advanced industry is
characterized by rapid change and uncertainty. Leaders
need to be agile and adaptable, able to pivot quickly in
response to new information or market conditions. Agile
leaders are able to make quick decisions, take calculated
risks, and learn from failure.
Data-Driven Leadership: In the digitally advanced
industry, data is king. Leaders need to be able to analyze
and interpret large amounts of data in order to make
informed decisions. Data-driven leaders are able to identify
trends, track performance, and make data-backed decisions
that drive growth.
Ethical Leadership: As technology continues to transform
the industry, leaders need to be aware of the ethical
implications of their decisions. Ethical leaders are able to
balance the needs of their organization with the needs of
their customers, employees, and society as a whole.
Ethical leadership is a style of leadership that emphasizes
moral values and principles. It involves making decisions
and taking actions that are based on ethical principles, and
that prioritize the well-being of others.
Increased Trust: Ethical leaders are more likely to be
trusted by their employees, customers, and stakeholders. By
demonstrating a commitment to ethical principles, leaders
can build trust and establish strong relationships with those
around them.
Improved Reputation: Ethical leadership can enhance an
organization's reputation. When leaders prioritize ethical
behavior, they are more likely to be seen as trustworthy,
credible, and reliable. This can help to attract customers and
investors and can also help to retain employees.
Inclusive Leadership: Inclusion is becoming increasingly
important in the digitally advanced industry. Leaders need
to be able to create a diverse and inclusive workplace that
fosters innovation and creativity. Inclusive leaders are able
to attract and retain top talent from a wide range of
backgrounds and perspectives.
Ethical leadership can help to build stronger relationships
with stakeholders. By prioritizing the needs of others and
demonstrating a commitment to ethical principles, leaders
can establish trust and build strong relationships with
employees, customers, investors, and other stakeholders.
Customer-Centric Leadership: In the digitally advanced
industry, customer needs are constantly changing. Leaders
need to be able to anticipate these changes and adapt their
strategies accordingly. Customer-centric leaders are able to
create products and services that meet the evolving needs of
their customers, building loyalty and driving growth.
In conclusion, the digitally advanced industry requires a
new kind of leadership. Leaders need to be visionary,
collaborative, agile, data-driven, ethical, inclusive, and
customer-centric. By embracing these leadership
perspectives, organizations can stay ahead of the curve,
drive innovation, and succeed in the rapidly evolving digital
landscape.
18

Professional success is a culmination of following
your interests with inquisitiveness, fascination,
passion, and the constant pursuit of excellence in
your chosen path of career. Possessing these qualities in
abundance, Nidhi Arya, a Partner at Argus Partners, has
recently been recognized as a “Recommended Lawyer” for
Banking & Finance by the Legal500 Asia-Pacific Rankings
2022.
Further, her practice, i.e. Banking & Finance at Argus
Partners, has won several awards and recognitions,
including:
Ÿ IFLR1000 2022, 2021 and 2020.
Ÿ Top 50 Law Firms in India by Forbes India in its Legal
Powerlist 2021, 2020.
Ÿ Chambers & Partners Asia-Pacific 2021 & 2020.
Ÿ Chambers & Partners Global Guide 2020.
Ÿ Asia Law Profiles 2021, 2020 and 2018.
The legal profession along with being a noble one is the
most arduous area to function in. Yet, in the past decade that
Nidhi has been with Argus Partners, she has been an
integral part of the leadership and has actively participated
in shaping the different policies which are currently in place
at Argus Partners, including shaping the culture at the firm.
She is excelling and setting benchmarks of higher accom-
plishment in her practice areas of Banking and Finance,
Real Estate, and General Corporate.
An Inquisitively Inspirational Journey
Sharing her inspiration behind venturing into the legal
profession and mastering it with panache, Nidhi recalls that
while growing up, she was always fascinated with eminent
legal personalities who often appeared in the news and had
a reputation for being the best in the high-profile matters of
their time. Being a history buff and an avid reader in school,
she was also inspired by lawyers who had dedicated their
careers towards fighting for our independence. She adds,
“These personalities stoked my inquisitiveness about the
legal profession.”
Nidhi graduated from Symbiosis Law School, Pune in the
year 2008, and then went on to complete her L.L.M.
(Master of Law) in International Finance Law from King’s
College, London. “In law school, I realized that I had a
passion for the profession. Though initially, I wanted to be a
litigator, I later found that I had a knack for corporate law,
which I practice till date due to the constant learning
opportunities across a wide breadth of industries that I
engage in.”
Nidhi started her legal career with Gagrats, Mumbai.
Thereafter, she was a part of the international capital
markets team at Rajani Associates, Mumbai, before joining
Argus Partners in the year 2013. “I also believe that the
legal profession is one of the few noble professions in India
that demand a higher standard of conduct and integrity,
which instils a sense of pride in me,” she says.
Speaking about her law firm, Nidhi says that…
Argus Partners
…is a leading Indian law firm with offices in Mumbai,
Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. Innovative thought
leadership and the ability to build lasting relationships with
all stakeholders are the key drivers of the firm. The
professionals of the firm are business lawyers, who
understand business and financial issues that help in
identifying real risks and providing practical legal solutions
to drive the growth of the clients’ business.
The firm is a result of the merger of two firms. In 2012 the
firm Argus Partners merged with an existing Mumbai
headquartered firm, Udwadia & Udeshi, which was
The Professionally Empowering
Corporate Legal Partner
20

established in 1997. The merged firm was renamed
‘Udwadia Udeshi & Argus Partners’. In 2015 along with the
change in the name of the firm to ‘Argus Partners’, the
partners adopted the firm’s immutable core values of
integrity, quality, and respect, which stand as the
cornerstone of the firm in all its dealings.
The firm has built a formidable reputation for
its consistent high performance. The firm,
the Partners and the associates have rich
domestic and international experience,
and have been recognized and awarded
by several publications. Presence across
India gives the firm a distinct advantage
in serving its clientele which includes
industry and business leaders in all
segments of the market.
When probed about challenges she faced
while entering the legal profession viz-a-
viz present challenges, Nidhi says as she
self-reflects to the time when she had
entered the legal space, there were…
Two Key Challenges
that she faced as a budding lawyer:
Firstly, it was challenging for her to find her fit in this
industry. The sheer number of practice areas and law firms
in the corporate legal space can be daunting for a fresher.
This is where internships play a vital role where freshers
can immerse themselves across practice areas until they find
their calling. “It is heartening to see that, today, internship
programs are more advanced and regimented than they
were when I was in law school.”
Secondly, it took her a lot of time and effort to identify the
right approach that could help her better understand the
needs and pain points of her clients. This was critical to
ensure that she structure solutions that meet their unique
needs. She says, “As corporate lawyers, once we have a
deep understanding of the business of our clients and how
it's evolving, only then does it become easier to guide our
clients through the traverse of law and the regulatory
regime.”
Today, as a partner in a law firm, the biggest challenge that
she faces is maintaining her brand as an expert in her
domain, since the market in India is now fiercely competi-
tive. Relationships play a key role here. Personally, she has
Nidhi Arya has been recognized as a
‘Recommended Lawyer’ for Banking
& Finance by the Legal500 Asia-
Pacific Rankings 2022.

had the opportunity to work in Mumbai and Kolkata, which
has enabled her to build relationships in both these markets
and maintain those relationships by leveraging technology
to be more location-agnostic while servicing her clients.
A Brilliance of Legal Excellence
Briefing about the various specialized legal offerings,
solutions, or services that she provides to her clientele,
Nidhi says that within the sphere of banking and finance,
she regularly advises large banks, non-banking financial
companies and funds on debt transactions in both the
stressed and non-stressed sectors, including corporate
funding, construction finance, external commercial
borrowings, issuance of non-convertible debentures and due
diligence.
She also has extensive experience within the real estate
space, wherein she provides compliance-based advisory
services to clients, especially in light of the Real Estate
(Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA). She
handles multiple transactions for townships and real estate
projects, which include real estate financing, joint ventures,
joint developments, leases, and RERA documentation.
She informs, “Within my general corporate practice, I have
advised corporate houses on day-to-day matters, while also
overlooking various corporate transactions in the fields of
power, turnkey projects, and logistics.”
Tech Legal Transformation
Shedding light on the impact of technological advance-
ments on the Law space, Nidhi says that in the pre-COVID
times, much of the work within the legal industry was
heavily reliant on face-to-face consultations, physical
meetings, and hearings. The past two years have seen a
sharp learning curve where new technologies are concerned
as COVID forced courts and lawyers alike to adapt to
remote ways of working. “More specifically, digital
solutions such as virtual data rooms, servers and virtual
meeting rooms have really changed the way that we work
today.”
According to her another great impact of technology on this
profession is that lawyers are now no longer confined to
businesses within their cities, with more work being
accomplished through online meetings, virtual hearings and
email interactions. Law firms are, therefore, no longer
confined to geographies where they are present and have
now started servicing clients in different markets.
“Further, digital contracts, clickwrap agreements, e-
signatures and e-filings have now become a common
practice amongst corporates and businesses,” she says.
An Extensively Powerful Growth Story
Revealing specialities/factors that make her stand out as an
influential personality in her field, Nidhi says that she is a
first-generation lawyer with an extensive legal career of
about 14 years that spans multiple practice areas. As a part
of the core team, she has played an active role in the growth
story of her firm for the past decade. “We started from 25
lawyers and are 200 lawyers strong today, across four
cities,” she conveys.
Having worked in banking and finance, real estate and
general corporate, she has managed to build her own brand.
She adds, “I am now using this experience to groom the
next generation of lawyers within my firm, while also
creating opportunities for them.”
Nidhi offers her clients customer-centric solutions and
delivers results with efficiency and speed. “This approach
has allowed me to build strong relationships with some of
the most prominent financial institutions within the country,
while also venturing into new spaces.”
Wisdom for the Future of Law
In her advice to the aspiring legal enthusiasts who are
willing to step into the legal space today, Nidhi feels that
while a career in law can be demanding, the same is true for
any professional services today. “My advice to aspiring
lawyers would be to stay positive and focus on practice
areas that they find interesting. For us lawyers, it takes time
and patience to develop subject matter expertise in any
practice area and this will eventually lead to building your
own unique brand in the future.”
Highlighting the current scenario of the Indian Legal Space,
Nidhi shares that these are exciting times for lawyers with
technology being at the centre of everything they do. What
this presents are multiple pathways to learning new skill
sets. “In recent times we have also seen the emergence of
many new legal practice areas and specialties such as
technology including fintech and digital payments, e-
commerce, data privacy, cyber laws, ESG, climate action,
etc. which have opened new opportunities for lawyers,” she
concludes.
22

.

CIOLook India

Understanding the Traits that
Approaches
32

uccessful business organizations have been led by
Sprominent influential leaders who have inspired and
guided the teams towards focused working and
delivering the best services. Researchers have identified the
crucial change of the mindset towards broader and holistic
thinking, to have accelerated the productivity of the
organization powered by stoic leadership.
There are several organizations that have been steered by
influential leaders on the path of gradual progress, coming
out to be effective, prominent, and significant in the aspects
of innovation, product development, services, and client
satisfaction. The list goes long with new names getting
added in the business era heralded by a series of dynamic
leaders like Gautam Adani from Adani Group, Roshni
Nadar of HCL Infosystems, Mukesh Ambani of Reliance
Group, Falguni Nayar of Naykaa, Ratan Tata, Chairman
Tata Group, Anand Mahindra MD Mahindra Group, Kiran
Mazumdar Shaw of Biocon Ltd and more. It is interesting
to understand the various traits of successful
businesswomen that have been noticed in their unique
leadership approaches.
Strong Self Belief
Successful leaders are practical thinkers having a strong
self-belief in making things happen. Knowing the various
aspects of the organization from the depth of operations, the
leaders are very focused and specific about executing the
plans. Track and monitor the systems to prepare the
required strategies. Leaders reflect amazing confidence in
their communication and behaviour. Their preparedness in
every meeting and the day-to-day business functions
reflects their finesse and control over the discussion. This
belief portrays their ability to maneuver various challenges
and succeed in the business.
Presentable Professionals
Business leaders are always nicely groomed and well-
presented saying a lot about themselves. It shows that they
have got everything in control and take pride in their
appearance. Good dressing reflects their self-respect.
Admirable Aspects

Business leaders are never short of anything but pristine
and stylish – in fact, everyone is likely to catch these
leaders on the ‘best dressed’ celebrities of some great event.
The dressing, shoes, accessories, methods of using the
gadgets, posture, and movements all reflect a class of their
level. The complete personality portrays an inspiring aura
that motivates and impresses the people around.
Business today is about a lot more than being good at the
job; it’s about building a personal own brand as well as that
of the organization as well.
Welcome Challenges Openly
Business leaders are fierce performers themselves in
finishing the tasks from their ‘To-Do’ list. This quality
makes them unmatched professionals who remain far ahead
in their deliveries and execution. They are very adept and
agile in handling several types of challenges. It so happens
that as they complete one from the list, another three appear
at the bottom with their own timelines. They don’t see any
problem with this either, but rather enjoy re-prioritizing the
task list thereby pushing themselves to see what they can
achieve.
Understanding that not everything on the to-do list will be
accomplished but will be completed sooner is also a sign of
their strength.
Healthy Work-Life Balance
Progressive business leaders with successful careers have a
healthy work-life balance. They are not the first ones to
wind off the day early and head for some enjoyment, but
they are the experts in maintaining a healthy balance in
their work and personal lives. Keeping both things separate
and clearly defined, they lead lives with proper planning
and distribution of priorities. They are also flexible in
juggling between priorities when they team up for the late-
night presentation of the board meeting or work hard to
meet the commitments of the employees, vendors, clients,
and even investors. This comes down to the fact that they
prioritize what’s important and make time for a life out of
work. That time out allows for perspective and gives
women with high-powered, stressful careers the opportunity
to unwind and refocus when necessary.
Support Others
Successful leaders promptly support their team members;
they encourage other people to learn and take up higher
responsibilities in business and more often in helping others
climb the corporate ladder. Modern leaders who have
achieved success recognize and appreciate the hurdles their
peers will have to overcome and guide them accordingly.
Business leaders allow the employees to identify the work
from a different perspective and apply creative thoughts
from their active involvement in the work.
Passionate Managers
Looking at the business from a commercial enterprise to a
solution powerhouse, today’s business leaders have
displayed amazing talent in their high degree of
involvement in organizational operations. Developing a
clear understanding, they identify an outcome that would
offer the best possible solution to the intended purpose to
the clients, and everyone involved in the chain. Openly
brainstorm with the teams, and help in generating new
possibilities of better and more efficient working, the
leaders ensure cracking the best possible ‘improved’
solution adding substance to the working objectives.
34

I N D I A
VOL-11 | ISSUE-08 | 2023
Fostering Avirat
Dr
ngh
Seema
Know Your Leader
Comprehending the
Admirable Aspects
Understanding the
Traits that
Signify Impeccable
Leadership
Approaches

Stuti
Stuti
Dhyani
An Ardent Legal Advisor Offering the Most Optimal Solutions
Stuti Dhyani
Partner
Saikrishna & Associates
36

here is no one best solution that would fit all in the
Tlegal arena, only completely customer-centric
optimal solutions. This is what Stuti Dhyani
ardently believes in. As the Partner at Saikrishna &
Associates, she has comprehensively learned this fine
distinction. According to her, it is important to realize early
on that the best solution for one may not be the most
optimal solution for the other; hence, "We need to
understand our audience before any advice. With a decade
of practice, I believe one naturally learns the pulse of the
authorities one is dealing with and can offer the optimal
advice most suited for one's client.”
Stuti's legal expertise's USPs makes her stand out as an
influential lawyer in the industry, and especially as a
Partner; Stuti leads the ICT, Computer Science, and
telecommunication vertical at the firm and looks after the
end-to-end services, be it drafting, prosecution, or dispute
resolution when it comes to Patent Law.
Protecting Your Intellectual Genius
Adding on the traits of an influential lawyer, she says that
creativity is intrinsic, but with the right intention, it can
also be cultivated. "I believe I have always put an
amalgamation of my technical prowess, my love for words,
and the ability to think beyond what exists on the table to
offer the most optimal solution to the client.”
Another leg to this discussion is championing the cause of
not just getting any claim or patent granted but getting an
enforceable claim or patent granted. The arduous work of
protecting your innovation doesn't end with a granted claim
or patent but infact, begins only with its enforceability.
"With being neck-deep into SEP litigations, we are made
aware of how crucial this fact is on quite a daily basis and
realize how it is the crying need of the hour," she feels.
Other than her primary role stated earlier, Stuti has
copiously contributed to creating awareness of the firm's
patent practice, attending various national and international
conferences and seminars, and journaling important patent
updates. Being deeply entrenched in the field and
developing a pragmatic viewpoint in dealing with the court
and patent office officers regularly has given her the vantage
point to provide strategic advisories on patent law.
However, a Partner at Saikrishna is much more than
someone who has made their mark in law and technology.
Moving up in Maslow's hierarchy of needs, one is
motivated by self-actualization. This self-actualization
forms a fine nexus with adding value to society at large,
leading to fulfilling your life purpose.
In the patent space, there are fine nuances between the
monopoly of rights and the abuse of dominant position that
one must understand. The differentiator between the two
can often be conflated and blurred, and comprehending this
can be very nebulous. As an ardent Indian patent
professional, Stuti strives to galvanize awareness of the fine
balance so that whilst the proprietor's rights are not
compromised, the commoner and the society generally don't
hang by a thread either. "This is both challenging and
rewarding at the same time.”
Legally Techno Logical Journey
Saikrishna & Associates is a full-service law firm
specializing in Intellectual Property, Telecommunication
Media and Technology, Corporate Law, and Competition in
Noida, Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore in India. "Started by
our Managing Partner, Mr. Sairkrishna Rajagopal, in 2001,
the firm has grown by leaps and bounds across verticals
and locations," informs Stuti, an IT engineer, a lawyer by
education and a patent attorney/lawyer by profession.
Her inclination towards IPR, particularly patents, seemed a
natural step after earning her Engineering degree because
I believe I have always put
an amalgamation of my
technical prowess, my love
for words, and the ability
to think beyond what exists
on the table to offer the
most optimal solution
to the client.

this step allowed her to combine her predilection for
Technology, passion for words, and love of protecting the
rights of researchers and scientists alike.
She started her career at Anand and Anand Advocates,
Noida, in 2011. She was intensively involved in drafting
and prosecuting patent applications and contentious
matters- appeals, invalidations, and litigation representing
some major software and telecom giants across the globe.
After that, she joined Saikrishna & Associates, Noida, in
2019 as an Associate Partner.
At Saikrishna, Stuti has had the fortune of garnering
extensive experience in involving herself at the end to end
of the patent spectrum ranging from analytics, searches,
drafting, standard essential patent evaluation, claim chart
mapping, patent licensing, and monetization. She has also
been involved in prosecution before the Patent office, in
contentious matters before the erstwhile Appellate board
and the current Intellectual Property Division (IPD) of the
Delhi High Court (DHC), and in hard-core litigation,
especially in Standard Essential Patents and FRAND before
the Court of Law. Notably, she has prosecuted nearly 6000
patent applications on computer-related inventions and
telecommunications with a whopping success rate.
She has also had the rare opportunity to be a resource
person for Induction and Training for Judges of the
High Court and District Courts in India's IPR policy at
the National Judicial Academy (NJA), Bhopal. Besides
this, she has also delivered lectures at various universities,
start-ups, research, and financial institutions to increase
protection awareness in building patent-implemented
inventions.
Her dabbling into various arenas of patents has given Stuti
the latitude to perform in almost any capacity–from being a
representative at the Indian Patent Office, the Intellectual
Property Division, and the High Court for clients across the
world.
Intrinsically Cultivated Intelligence
Despite having seen the legalese while growing up, it had
little impact on Stuti's decision to venture into the legal
space. On the contrary, she resorted to a different route and
pursued engineering in Information Technology. While she
was able to secure offers from various software companies
in her pre-final year of engineering, she had an epiphany
that she wasn't so inclined towards application-based
computer programming and probably would never be fully
satisfied being a coder.
Stuti interned at Anand and Anand, Noida, as a part of her
5th-semester subject, and it dawned on her that she was
much intrigued by the theoretical aspect of computer
science and the ongoing research and innovation that is
incrementing our lives. After her 8th semester, she declined
her other IT offers and took up the job at Anand and Anand.
During her tenure at Anand and Anand, to further augment
her skills, Stuti pursued law and ultimately passed the Bar
in 2017. When she entered this field in 2011, this was still
an upcoming arena in law, with not many people cognizant
of this. The competition was sparse, and the opportunities
were still exploratory. Stuti reflects, "However, I believe for
a student of science and technology, with no formal
education in law at first, it can take some time to wrap their
heads around the law per se and its application to
technology thereof. I must admit that there has been a sea
change in awareness since then, with many patent agents
and engineers/scientists who already come with combined
degrees before starting their careers.”
That being said, she adds that techno-legal professionals
must never lose sight of the fact that while technology
advances at a galloping speed, the law needs to keep pace
with it. "The law, especially if I were to talk about the
Patent law, was enacted in 1970, and the Patent Rules have
been constantly revised since 2016." The law was enacted
to offer protection to technology with an exclusion to a
certain category of invention, keeping in mind the socio-
economic structure of our country then. Following the 2005
Doha Declaration, India became a member of the TRIPS
with a certain embargo on some kinds of inventions.
The Smartness Quotient
"We can all appreciate that the technology and the nature of
inventions, both incremental and disruptive, have evolved
significantly since then. The economy of India can also be
re-evaluated to determine the relevance of the laws
protecting our IPRs." At any rate, the need of the hour is to
ensure that the law protecting these IPRs is also
dynamically fine-tuned so that they don't become discrepant
with the very technology they aim to protect. "While the
Patent Rules' slew of amendments since 2016 till now have
brought much respite in addressing procedural deficiencies,
we can hope for revised legislation such that the laws don't
become antiquated.”
38

Briefing about her specialized services, Stuti says at
Saikrishna they are a diversified team of engineers, lawyers,
and patent agents who run into multiple technical domains
and are adept at Patents and Designs filing, Prosecution,
litigation, prosecution and litigation advisory, Illustration
Drawings, Patent drafting, Patentability searches, Invalidity
searches, Freedom to operate searches, Risk Analysis,
Competitive analytics. They also routinely assist in filing
and prosecuting in other countries through their foreign
associates. They cater to automotive, computer science,
telecommunication, electronics, chemistry-pharma, life
sciences, agriculture, and material sciences, to name a few.
They are deep into drafting of complex inventions on AI
and ML and 5G/6G technology, Standard Essential Patent
(SEP) and FRAND litigation and various Alternate Dispute
Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, such as mediation and
negotiations.
The Dynamic Aspect
While sharing her opinion on tech advancement in the law
field, Stuti says that technology has played a vital role in the
legal industry. It has increased the efficiency of legal offices
and the productivity of clerical workers. It has also
improved accuracy and ensured greater transparency within
and outside the firms. "The advent of technology is most
welcoming when it helps the world and our legal ecosystem
go green.”
With cloud migration, the need to maintain physical files
has been eliminated. This change is not just evident in law
firms but also in some courts too. It has enabled people to
work remotely when needed and has far-reaching effects in
ensuring job satisfaction.
However, with the advent of AI-based applications, such as
chatgpt, technological advancement has reached a new
height. There are speculations that it could dilute the need
for lawyers, but however good technological progress may
be, it cannot replace a human mind with the creativity one
desires.
The Law Full Wisdom Way Ahead
In her advice to the budding legal professionals aspiring to
step into the legal field today, Stuti thinks that young
professionals need no advice; they are extremely
hardworking, industrious, and diligent and are equipped
with anything at their command. "But if I can offer my two
cents, it is that before anyone else, stay true to yourself. I
believe that is where we falter because misleading oneself
can cause much-unwarranted agony. It is easy to get
overwhelmed by what is prevalent, so if we can appreciate
our strengths and embrace our weaknesses, we can make
great strides in this industry.”
Focus on finding a true mentor. Having a mentor to help
you wade through the waters even when you think you may
know everything is a boon in today's day and age. There are
many unexplored areas where one can find their niche. It is
akin to developing a taste or distaste for a subject,
depending on how good your teacher at school was!
And lastly, but most importantly,s know why you are
doing what you are doing.
“At times, when I conduct interviews, I realize there is little
to no focal point to the discussion with some professionals
when they are asked to comment on the 'why' behind
something,” she adds.
Regarding the current and future scenarios, Stuti believes
that the Indian legal industry is a work in progress, as is any
legal sector of any other country. "The Indian
Jurisprudence, and I can speak for patent jurisprudence, has
developed substantially in the last five years like some
much-lauded decisions by the Delhi High Court on the
formation of the Confidentiality Club, the Anti- Anti Suit
Injunction, claim amendments and divisional applications,
but we still have a long way ahead," she concludes.

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