India's 10 Great Places to Work for Women – 2024.pdf

Vol 02 | Issue 01 | 2024
The Inclusive Revolu on
How the Workplaces
Championing Diversity and
Inclusion for Women are
Crea ng a Future of Equality?
India’s10
Great
Places to Work
forWomen
– 2024
Blue Dart
Express Limited
Empowering Women and Eleva ng Excellence by
Fostering Gender Equality
Her Story
Top Ten Trends in Gender
Equal Workplaces
www.insightssuccess.in

India’s10
Great
Places to Work
forWomen
– 2024

In 2024, as the world continues to evolve and progress
towards greater gender equality, it is imperative to
recognize and celebrate organizations that prioritize
creating inclusive and supportive work environments for
women. India's 10 Great Places to Work for Women
represents a culmination of efforts by forward-thinking
companies committed to fostering diversity, equality, and
empowerment in the workplace.
These organizations understand the importance of providing
women with opportunities for professional growth,
leadership development, and work-life balance. By
implementing policies such as flexible working hours,
parental leave, mentorship programs, and gender-neutral
recruitment practices, they create a conducive atmosphere
where women can thrive and excel in their careers.
Moreover, India's 10 Great Places to Work for Women go
beyond mere compliance with diversity quotas; they
embrace diversity as a cornerstone of their organizational
culture. They actively promote women's representation in
leadership roles, ensure pay equity, and offer avenues for
women to voice their concerns and contribute meaningfully
to decision-making processes.
By prioritizing the well-being and advancement of women
in the workplace, these organizations not only attract top
female talent but also set a precedent for others to follow.
They recognize that gender diversity is not just a moral
imperative but also a strategic advantage, leading to
increased innovation, creativity, and overall organizational
performance.
FUTURE EQUAL PROPELLERS OF WOMEN
EMPOWERED PROGRESSIVE MARCH
As we applaud Insights Success ‘India's 10 Great Places
to Work for Women – 2024,’ let us also acknowledge the
ongoing efforts needed to create a more inclusive and
equitable society. By fostering environments where women
feel valued, respected, and empowered, these organizations
pave the way for a brighter and more promising future for
women in the workforce.
Dive in!
Editor’s Note
Gaurav PR Wankhade
Managing Editor
gaurav.wankhade@insightssuccess.com

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Vol 02 | Issue 01 | 2024
The Inclusive Revolu on
How the Workplaces
Championing Diversity and
Inclusion for Women are
Crea ng a Future of Equality?
India’s10
Great
Places to Work
forWomen
– 2024
Blue Dart
Express Limited
Her Story
Top Ten Trends in Gender
Equal Workplaces

Company Description
Carol Philip Architects is led by Carol who is an architect par
excellence who thoughtfully applies technology in offering best of the
solutions to the clients ensuring complete satisfaction.
Blue Dart is a well-established courier company with a great
reputation, that has consistently shown its commitment to reliable and
efficient service.
Bridgestone India Private Limited has set a benchmark with its
operations in India and has grown to become one of the biggest
suppliers to almost all reputed OEMs in India with best in class quality
products.
Blue Dart
Express Limited
Bridgestone India
Private Limited
Carol Philip,
Founding Principal
Sudha Pai, CFO; Sonia Nair,
VP-Customer Service; and
Namita Patwari, Sr. General
Manager-HR
Shraddha Gadkari,
HR
Chalet Hotels - An International High-end Hotel Chains in
India, comprises of seven operating hotels with a co-located
serviced residence.
Chalet Hotels Ltd
Rakhi Kankane,
Corporate
Communications Manager
Featuring
Interactive Bees is the Web Design and Brand Communication
Agency in India offering Professional Digital Marketing
services for your company.
Interactive Bees Monica Gupta,
Founder and Director
India’s10
Great
Places to Work
forWomen
– 2024
Sanctum is a professional Wealth Management Company in India,
engaged in personalised Financial Advisory Services.
Lucas-TVS has been serving the Automotive Industry for more than 5
decades and over 80 millions of vehicles have Lucas TVS products
operating within India and overseas.
Nirav BioSolutions Pvt. Ltd. is a Life Science company and has signed
a collaboration with the Institute of Professional Education and
Research to develop a programme in pharmacy for aspiring students.
Sanctum Wealth Pvt Ltd
LUCAS TVS Limited
Nirav Biosolutions
Pvt Ltd
Aditi Shetty,
VP Brand Marketing and
Communications
Mani N R,
Head of Human
Resources
Mrs Vaishali Sharma,
CEO
TSMC is a preferred talent acquisition and corporate Training
partner for leading businesses, our specialized training
programs help clients stand out.
Talent Search Management
Consulting
Reema Nakra,
Founder and Director
THOUGHTSOL INFOTECH PVT. LTD. helps brands grow
through digital transformation enabling them to leverage the
power of IT for an all-embracing impact on their businesses.
THOUGHTSOL
INFOTECH PVT. LTD.
Anchal Goenka,
Assistant Manager

Blue Dart
Express Limited
Cover
Story

Sudha Pai- CFO,
Sonia Nair- VP Customer Service,
Namita Patwari- Sr. General Manager-HR,
Shweta Gula - Corporate Controller, and
Priya Zutshi- Head of Corporate Communica ons
Ensuring equal opportuni es and pay
parity for women in the workplace,
Blue Dart is focusing on the representa on
of women in management (WIM),
with 18% of females holding posi ons
in the middle to senior management.
‘‘
‘
‘

What are the aspects that make a place great to
work for women? Let us find out through an
exceptional saga of a company whose every act
confirms the proud fact that the Indian industry is indeed on
the path of workforce empowerment through equality.
In the dynamic world of logistics, Blue Dart Express
Limited stands as the north star of gender equality,
recognized as one of India’s 10 Great Places to Work for
Women – 2024. This prestigious accolade is a testament to
Blue Dart’s unwavering commitment to fostering an
inclusive and empowering workplace culture where women
can thrive and reach their full potential.
Recognizing that diversity is a cornerstone for innovation
and business triumph, Blue Dart champions a progressive
mindset aiming to cultivate a diverse workforce. The
company firmly believes that a diverse team enhances
workplace culture and drives business advancement.
Upholding an unwavering dedication to excellence, Blue
Dart prioritizes fostering a safe and inclusive work
environment that empowers every member to flourish.
Embracing sustainability in its pursuit of success, the
company actively advocates for gender diversity,
acknowledging the substantial value that a well-balanced
and diverse workforce contributes to its ever-evolving
industry.
At Blue Dart, diversity is not just a buzzword; it’s a driving
force behind innovation and success. The company
recognizes that a diverse workforce, enriched by women’s
unique perspectives and experiences, is essential for driving
business growth and achieving operational excellence.
The North Star of Gender Equality
Blue Dart has been committed to nurturing a diverse talent
pool, attracting exceptional women and investing in their
India's 10 Great Places to Work for Women- 2024

Annually, we commemorate
DEIB week, an occasion to
communicate the significance
of diversity from the MD’s desk,
reinforcing our commitment to
fostering an inclusive workplace.
‘‘
‘
‘
professional growth since its inception. The company
understands that women bring a wealth of skills, expertise,
and leadership qualities to the table, and it proactively seeks
to nurture their talent and empower them to excel in all
areas of the business.
Blue Dart’s dedication to gender diversity is evident in its
comprehensive range of initiatives and policies designed to
support women’s career aspirations. These initiatives
include:
*Flexible work arrangements: Recognizing the diverse
needs of its employees, Blue Dart offers flexible work
arrangements, such as work-from-home options and flexible
working hours, to enable women to balance their
professional and personal responsibilities seamlessly.
*Leadership development programs: Blue Dart provides
women with comprehensive leadership development
programs, empowering them to hone their leadership skills,
gain confidence, and advance into senior leadership
positions.
*Mentorship and networking opportunities: Blue Dart
fosters a culture of mentorship and networking, connecting
women with experienced mentors and providing
opportunities to build professional relationships that support
their career growth.
*Gender sensitization training: Blue Dart conducts
regular training workshops to raise awareness about gender
equality and promote inclusive workplace practices.
*Support for working mothers: Blue Dart offers a range
of benefits and support services for working mothers,
including daycare facilities, parental leave policies, and
flexible work arrangements, to ensure their well-being and
enable them to thrive in their dual roles.
Blue Dart’s commitment to gender diversity extends
beyond its workforce. The company actively engages with
suppliers and partners to promote gender inclusion in its
supply chain, ensuring that its values of diversity and
equality are upheld throughout its business ecosystem.
Fostering the Feminine Force
Blue Dart is rooted in a fundamental guiding philosophy
centred on prioritizing ‘people first’ in all aspects of talent
management. Sudha Pai, the CFO, says, “The cornerstone
of our identity lies in a steadfast commitment to non-
discrimination and fair treatment, cultivating a ‘Respect
and Result’culture that permeates our organizational
fabric.”
Additionally, the VP of Customer Service, Sonia Nair,
says, “These core values form the foundation of our
inclusive environment, particularly regarding women within
our ranks.”
“We stand firm in our belief that every woman in the Blue
Dart family should not only feel secure but also deeply
valued and included,” insists Namita Patwari, Sr General
Manager of HR.
From its inception, this unwavering commitment to
women’s well-being and inclusion has been an intrinsic part
of Blue Dart’s DNA. All three leaders claim that their ethos
of ‘One’ underscores their collaborative approach, driving
them collectively toward achieving meaningful and
impactful outcomes. Shweta Gulati, the Corporate
Controller, assures, “We vehemently oppose any form of
discrimination, be it based on gender, age, or any other
demographic variable. Our day-to-day operations and
long-term vision revolve around maintaining a delicate
balance between fostering respect and delivering
exceptional results.”
This steadfast dedication to nurturing an inclusive and
respectful workplace has earned Blue Dart recognition as
one of the ’10 Great Places to Work for Women’ and has
secured its place among ‘India’s top 100 Great Places to
Work.’ “Beyond being a workplace, we aspire to create a
community where every individual, irrespective of their

background, flourishes and contributes to our shared
journey of success,” states Priya Zutshi, Head of
Corporate Communications.
Diversified Freedom of Flexibility
In a continually evolving business landscape, Blue Dart
ensures that it remains flexible with working arrangements
offered for employees, especially women, such as remote
work, flexible hours, or compressed workweeks and the
freedom of embracing diversity. Blue Dart, an express
company operating across six regions in India with an
extensive network of warehouses, hubs, regional offices,
and service centres, recognizes women’s pivotal role at the
forefront of its business. Sudha adds, “Ensuring the safety
and well-being of our female workforce is paramount, and
we prioritize this through comprehensive measures and
initiatives.”
One cornerstone initiative is their robust POSH (Prevention
of Sexual Harassment) training program. It sensitizes all
employees, from blue-collar and white-collar workers to
outsourced personnel and senior management, fostering a
culture emphasising gender-sensitive behaviours and
communication. The primary objective is to enhance
awareness, minimize sexual harassment, encourage open
dialogue, and nurture an atmosphere of respect towards
women in the workplace.
In furtherance of their commitment to women’s well-being,
they have instituted an Internal Complaint Resolution
Committee dedicated to promptly addressing any situations
or occurrences related to the safety of female employees.
Sonia informs, “For those involved in night operations, we
prioritize their safety by offering pick-up and drop services
facilitated by our trusted drivers and vehicle operators.”
Understanding the diverse needs of their female workforce,
they provide maternity and adaptation leave to support them
in caring for newborns. “Additionally, we offer special leave
allowances for employees whose children are facing board
exams, promoting a harmonious work-life balance,” says
Shweta.
Blue Dart extends special leaves to its female employees to
accommodate various health-related situations, including
critical medical treatments, post-surgery recovery, or
postpartum conditions. Recognizing the challenges that
may arise post-maternity, the company offers flexible work
timing options for at least two months upon rejoining,
allowing a minimum five-hour work schedule.
“Furthermore, we ensure maternity insurance coverage for
all female employees, demonstrating our holistic approach
towards their well-being and security,” says Sudha.
The Success Driving Might
Blue Dart’s leadership team is often recognized as a driving
force behind the company’s policies or programs to support
a healthy work-life balance for women, such as childcare
facilities, wellness programs, or mental health support.
Shedding light on their approach to leadership and team
building within the organization, Priya says that in addition
to their comprehensive maternity leave policy, special
leaves, and flexible timing options post-maternity leave,
they strongly emphasise the mental health and overall well-
being of their women employees. “We have implemented a
specially designed Employee Assistance Program,
collaborating with external partners to offer confidential
counselling services as a complimentary mental health
support service,” she says.
Monthly awareness initiatives covering health, wellness,
emotional well-being, and stress management are
conducted to foster a supportive environment. These efforts
prioritize the employees’ psychological safety, ensuring the
confidentiality of beneficiary names. Periodic webinars
further contribute to awareness and sensitization regarding
the importance of a healthy work-life balance. Recognizing
the significance of personal and family time, they not only

a greener future by implementing eco-friendly practices
throughout our supply chain, optimizing routes for fuel
efficiency, adopting energy-efficient technologies, and
promoting a paperless work environment. “Our
commitment to reducing our carbon footprint extends to
ongoing initiatives such as waste reduction, recycling
programs, and investments in sustainable packaging. We
believe in leading by example and actively contributing to a
more sustainable and environmentally responsible
industry.”
Blue Dart introduced India’s first end-to-end Go Green
Carbon Neutral Services in December 2011. Since 2017,
annually planting 111,000 trees demonstrates team Blue
Dart’s tangible commitment to environmental conservation.
Priya mentions, “We aim to achieve Zero Carbon Emissions
by 2050 under DHL Group’s ‘Mission 2050,’aligning with
global efforts to limit global warming to less than 2ºC.”
Blue Dart’s dedication has earned recognition and
certification from the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) under its
#ClimateNeutralNow initiative, highlighting its
unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Turning Women into Future-Ready Leaders
Blue Dart has achieved remarkable success. Highlighting a
transformative initiative that showcases their commitment
to excellence and innovation from the women well-
represented in leadership positions, including at the
executive and board levels, the team says that succession
promote but insist on utilizing the 15 days of mandatory PL
(Privilege Leave) each year, says Sudha, adding that these
initiatives have led to the establishment of two fully
women-operated service centres and the inclusion of seven
female pilots in their aviation crew. She adds, “At the heart
of our diversity programs and initiatives lies a commitment
to the overall health, well-being, safety, and a collaborative
working environment for all our employees.”
The Dynamic DEIB Approach
The essence of a diversified workplace lies in a diversity
and inclusion policy. Thus, ensuring equal opportunities and
pay parity for women in the workplace, they are focusing
on the representation of women in management (WIM),
with 18% of females holding positions in the middle to
senior management, says Namita, adding, “Our ambitious
goal is to achieve 25% WIM by 2025 and further increase
it to 30% by 2030. To support this, we closely track
diversity hiring every quarter, maintaining an annual ratio
of 12-15%, contributing to a notable rise in the WIM KPI
from 13% to 17% over the past two years.”
Blue Dart adheres to clearly defined compensation brackets
based on experience and qualifications to ensure fairness,
transparency, and equity. Its compensation policy is rooted
in competency and credibility assessments for talent
attraction and promotions. The Role Classification System
(RCS) underscores the role’s significance in the business,
disregarding personal demographics such as age or gender.
In 2023, talent mapping based on RCS brought uniformity
and transparency to the organizational structure.
The Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) policy champions
gender neutrality, emphasizing Respect and Results as core
values in driving business. Ongoing Prevention of Sexual
Harassment (POSH) training ensures continuous sensitivity
and awareness, reaching over 3000 employees quarterly.
Blue Dart’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
(DEIB) approach permeates the org’s training programs,
mandating 10-15% female representation in each session, a
metric actively tracked. “Annually, we commemorate DEIB
week, an occasion to communicate the significance of
diversity from the MD’s desk, reinforcing our commitment
to fostering an inclusive workplace,” reveals Sonia.
India’s First #ClimateNeutralNow
Sustainability and environmental responsibility are crucial
aspects of modern industry. Similarly, they are integral to
Blue Dart’s operations. According to Shweta, they prioritize
Blue Dart generously sponsors
75% of course fees under
EmPowered and STEP programs,
emphasizing its investment in
con nuous learning.
‘‘
‘
‘

planning and empowered initiative are their flagship
interventions to develop women’s leadership across levels.
Quarterly talent reviews, led by functional leaders, shape
their succession planning efforts, specifically focusing on
identifying and nurturing women successors for critical
roles. The HR team proactively ensures a talent pipeline
with capable women leaders, supporting their development
to fit into key positions seamlessly. Sudha says, “Our
yearlong empowered program, currently comprising 70%
female participants, is a catalyst for developing women into
future-ready leaders.”
Utilizing innovative learning methodologies such as
gamification, peer coaching, e-learning, facilitative
conversations, and coaching, this cohort learning program
engages subject matter experts globally to groom talented
individuals. The program’s success is evident as, in 2022
and 2023, over ten females progressed through the
initiative, leading sub-departments today. Anticipating
continued success, the 2024 Empowered program boasts a
70% female nomination rate.
The impact of these initiatives is reflected in women
holding significant positions, including CFO, Corporate
Controller, ISO auditor, and Customer Service Head. “We
attribute these achievements to the seeds sown over the last
40 years, affirming our dedication to fostering and
promoting women’s leadership in our organization,” shares
Sonia.
Learning and Growth––STEP to EmPowered
In the realm of diversification, technology plays a pivotal
role in enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Recognizing it, with a four-decade legacy as a market
pioneer, Blue Dart maintains its competitive edge through a
steadfast commitment to technology and innovation. Its
learning platforms, My Talent World and Blue Connect,
exemplify this commitment by offering a diverse array of
skill-building modules for upskilling. The cutting-edge E-
learning modules cover both functional and behavioural
aspects, as well as leadership development.
“At Blue Dart, we prioritize "Learning and Growth" as a
crucial employee value proposition, providing women with
the flexibility of self-paced learning from anywhere,” says
Shweta, adding that it ensures their workforce, especially
women, can access continuous learning opportunities,
reinforcing their position as leaders in the market through a
culture of constant innovation and skill enhancement.
The workforce is the cornerstone of any successful
organization. According to the team Blue Dart, they foster a
culture of growth, skill development, and empowerment
among their employees, especially women. Priya says, “We
take pride in our two impactful programs, EmPowered and
STEP, which align with our people-first philosophy and
reinforce our commitment to the employee value
proposition of ‘Learn and Grow.’ STEP, our Subsidized
Tuition and Education Plan, empowers employees to pursue
higher education, enriching career prospects, personal
development, and effectiveness in their current roles.”
Blue Dart generously sponsors 75% of course fees under
this program, emphasizing its investment in continuous
learning.
EmPowered is designed to cultivate a women’s leadership
pipeline at Blue Dart, ensuring diversity at the highest
management levels. Sudha says, “In addition to our
mentoring initiative, where successors are entrusted with
projects and developmental plans, senior leadership team
members provide frequent guidance to enhance their
competencies.”
“These programs embody our dedication to fostering talent,
promoting growth, and creating avenues for continuous
learning within our organization,” believes Sonia.
Teamwork Trumps Tornados
The team further accepts that as leaders in the industry, they
confront challenges on the path to excellence. However,
their diversified team’s resilience and ingenuity always help
them triumph over adversity.
Our yearlong empowered
program, currently comprising
70% female par cipants,
is a catalyst for developing
women into future-ready leaders.
‘‘
‘
‘

Balancing talent acquisition and women in management
percentages is a key focus, recognizing the need to attract
and develop competent resources. While maintaining
gender inclusion and competency balance can be
challenging, certain business calls are necessary based on
urgency. Leadership team Blue Dart’s intention is to foster a
healthy representation of women in the workplace.
Externally, societal norms often dictate expectations from
women, impacting career aspirations due to traditional
caregiver roles. Cultural constraints lead to the loss of
women’s talent, but as part of its hiring strategy, the
company actively promotes and encourages women
replacements for existing roles. According to the team,
through increased hiring ratios, internal job postings, and
ensuring fairness in promotion decisions, they’ve
experienced a yearly increase in Women in Management
from 13% to 17%. With a target of 25% by 2025, tracked
quarterly, and a focus on hiring 30% female Management
Trainees in their yearly program, “We are committed to
infusing young talent diversity into our organization,” says
Shweta, who also feels that today, every workplace goes
beyond the physical realm, touching on aspects like safety,
security, hygiene, comfort, deep sense of wellbeing, and
cultural vibrancy.
Proudly Furthering India Diversity Forum
At Blue Dart, they prioritize a holistic approach to
employee well-being, encompassing safety, security,
hygiene, comfort, and a vibrant culture. Priya adds that they
go beyond the physical realm to create a workplace
fostering deep well-being. “Our initiatives include robust
safety protocols, secure environments, hygienic facilities,
comfortable workspaces, and a vibrant cultural
atmosphere.”
“This commitment enhances employee experience and
engagement, reflecting our dedication to creating a positive
and inclusive work environment,” states Sudha.
As a proud member of the India Diversity Forum and a
DHL group company, Blue Dart is committed to aligning
with global best practices in Diversity, Inclusion, and
Equity. The team of Sudha, Sonia, Namita, Shweta, and
Priya divulges that they aim to develop more focused
programs and policies surrounding inclusion in the future.
Their upcoming initiatives include proposing agile, hybrid,
and flexible employee working styles. Additionally, team
Blue Dart plans to extend their efforts in women
empowerment to reach junior and middle management
cadres, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion at all
levels within the organization.
Team Insights Success is proud to have Blue Dart as the
winner of the coveted title ‘India’s 10 Great Places to
Work for Women – 2024’. IS India wishes Blue Dart’s
entire team, including Sudha Pai, Sonia Nair, and Namita
Patwari, all the very best in all their future endeavours!
For more information about Blue Dart, you can connect
with
~Sudha Pai- CFO- .
sudhapai@bluedart.com
~Sonia Nair- VP- Customer Service-
SoniyaN@bluedart.com.
~Namita Patwari- Sr. General Manager-HR-
NamitaP@bluedart.com.
Our ambi ous goal
is to achieve 25% WIM by
2025 and increase
it to 30% by 2030.
‘‘
‘
‘

Diversity
Equality
Empowerment

For far too long, gender gaps and systemic biases
have hindered the progress of women in the
workplace. But a transformative shift is underway,
fuelled by a rising tide of championing diversity and
inclusion (D&I) within organizations. This inclusive
revolution is not just about ticking boxes; it's about creating
a future where women not only have a seat at the table, but
actively shape the conversations and drive meaningful
change.
Unlocking Potential, Unleashing Innovation:
The benefits of fostering an inclusive environment that
empowers women are undeniable. Studies consistently
show that diverse and inclusive teams outperform their
homogenous counterparts in terms of innovation, problem-
solving, and overall company performance. By tapping into
the talents and perspectives of a diverse workforce,
organizations open themselves up to a wider range of ideas
and solutions, fostering a culture of agility and resilience.
Beyond Hiring: Building an Ecosystem of Support
At the heart of this revolution are workplaces that prioritize
diversity and inclusion as core values. These organizations
understand that embracing gender diversity isn't just the
right thing to do morally—it's also smart business. Research
consistently shows that companies with diverse workforces
perform better financially, are more innovative, and have
higher employee engagement and retention rates. By
championing diversity and inclusion initiatives, forward-
thinking companies are not only creating a more equitable
workplace but also driving greater business success.
Meaningful D&I go beyond simply hiring women. It
involves creating a supportive ecosystem that addresses
various challenges women face at work, including:
Unconscious bias: Implementing awareness training and
fostering open dialogue to dismantle unconscious biases
that can hinder career advancement.
Mentorship and sponsorship: Connecting women with
experienced mentors and sponsors who can provide
guidance and advocate for their success.
Flexible work arrangements: Offering flexible work
schedules and childcare options to address work-life
balance challenges and attract a wider talent pool.
Equal pay and opportunity: Ensuring pay equity and
promoting women into leadership roles to create a level
playing field.
How the Workplaces
Championing Divers y
and Inclusion for
Womenare
Creating
a Future of
Equal y?
18 | www.insightssuccess.in Feb, 2024

The Inclusive Revolution

Leading the Charge: Inspiring Examples
One of the key pillars of the inclusive revolution is the
advancement of women into leadership positions.
Historically, women have been underrepresented in
executive and boardroom roles, facing barriers such as the
gender pay gap, lack of mentorship opportunities, and
unconscious bias. However, progressive organizations are
actively working to break down these barriers and create
pathways for women to rise to leadership positions.
Through mentorship programs, leadership development
initiatives, and targeted recruitment efforts, these companies
are empowering women to take on leadership roles and
drive positive change within their organizations.
Several organizations are leading the charge in
championing D&I for women, serving as inspiring models
for others:
Accenture: Committed to achieving gender parity in its
leadership team by 2025, they offer targeted development
programs and flexible work arrangements.
EY: Focusing on talent acquisition, development, and
leadership opportunities, they have achieved a 40%
representation of women in senior leadership positions.
Unilever: Implementing a powerful "HeForShe" campaign
to engage men in advocating for gender equality, they have
seen significant progress in closing the gender gap.
Beyond Business: A Societal Ripple Effect
Another critical aspect of the inclusive revolution is the
implementation of policies and practices that support work-
life balance and flexibility. Recognizing that women often
face unique challenges balancing their professional and
personal responsibilities, inclusive workplaces are offering
flexible work arrangements, parental leave policies, and
support for caregiving responsibilities. By accommodating
the diverse needs of their employees, these organizations
are not only attracting top talent but also fostering a culture
of trust, respect, and well-being.
The impact of inclusive workplaces extends far beyond the
walls of organizations. When women are empowered to
reach their full potential, it creates a ripple effect across
society, leading to:
Increased economic growth: Studies show that closing the
gender gap could unlock trillions of dollars in global
economic output.
Improved social well-being: Gender equality contributes
to better health outcomes, educational attainment, and
overall well-being for individuals, families, and
communities.
Breaking down harmful stereotypes: Diverse workplaces
challenge traditional gender roles and inspire future
generations to pursue their dreams regardless of gender.
Moreover, the inclusive revolution is about creating a
culture of belonging where every individual feels valued
and respected for who they are. This means actively
challenging stereotypes, biases, and discriminatory
practices, and creating an environment where everyone can
bring their whole selves to work. Through diversity
training, awareness campaigns, and inclusive leadership
practices, organizations are fostering a culture of belonging
where diversity is celebrated and differences are seen as
strengths rather than weaknesses.
The Road Ahead: A Collective Responsibility
The inclusive revolution is not a sprint; it's a marathon
requiring ongoing commitment and action from individuals,
organizations, and society as a whole. We must continue to:
Challenge traditional mindsets: Dismantle unconscious
biases and promote open dialogue about gender equality.
Champion inclusive policies: Advocate for policies that
support women's participation and advancement in the
workforce.
Celebrate role models: Share stories of successful women
leaders to inspire future generations.
Hold organizations accountable: Encourage companies to
adopt and implement effective D&I initiatives.
By actively participating in the inclusive revolution, we can
create a future where workplaces are truly equitable,
women's voices are amplified, and everyone has the
opportunity to thrive.

Act as if what
you do makes a diﬀerence.
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Agem was in the making as Carol Philip commenced
her professional education in 2011 for a Bachelor’s
Degree in Architecture at TKM College of
Engineering under the University of Kerala. In 2016, she
st
completed her course and secured 1 rank at the University
level. She was also the credit topper for all University
semester exams along the stretch of the five-year program.
She was also the first student in the history of the University to
have secured admission for her Master’s Degree before the
completion of the course. She secured these admits with the
City University of New York, Pratt University, University of
Florida and Tulane University with significant scholarship
offers.
After accepting admission to the City University of NewYork
in mid-2016, Carol moved to Manhattan, New York. Her
studio works that were completed during the fall and spring
semesters, titled “Additions to the Guggenheim Museum”
and “Enhancement of Broadway’s History”, respectively,
were published in “City Works” (A collection of outstanding
studio works collaborated by the Architectural Students of
City College of New York). “Enhancement of Broadway’s
History” proceeded to get selected for implementation but
was held off as she had graduated the following year,
completing the two-year program in a span of only one. She
also obtained various titles such as the “Master of
Architecture II Outstanding Design Project” and “Master of
Architecture” given to graduating students to recognise their
overall academic achievement and consistent excellence in
design.
She moved back to India mid-2017 and launched the Carol
Philip Architects firm. In early 2018, she was appreciated
for her contribution to the field by ACC Cement Group as a
part of their #PressForProgress program. In mid-2018, she
became an Associate Member of the Indian Institute of
Architects (AIIA) and Associate Member of the Indian
Institute of Interior Designers (AIID). The firm’s budget
home project based in Thekkady, a well renown high range
in the state, had obtained wide recognition across the states
of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This project went on to be
featured in
Ÿ “Designer+ Builder” magazine’s October 2018 Edition
Ÿ The “Veedu” series of Puthiyathalamurai, a Chennai-
based Tamil channel and
Ÿ Manorama Online who had highlighted the exterior
elegance of the project considering the budget
investment involved in the construction.
A 1700 sq. ft middle-class home was built in
Chunagumvely Kerala with contemporary designs and
layouts that made it stand out amongst its neighbours.
The firm designed a 47000 sq. ft indoor stadium for a young
group of investors looking to start a huge venture with a
small budget. While keeping the expenses within the
budget, the look and feel of the stadium were elevated with
the use of unconventional design elements on its outer
façade.
To date, the firm has handled over 80 projects across
various parts of Kerala and South India in the last five
years.
Carol Philip, the Founding Principal of the firm, spoke in
an interview about architectural philosophies, journey, and
plans to transform Kerala’s architectural landscape with an
Carol Philip
Architects
Philosophizing Creatively Sustainable Innovations

Carol Philip
Founding Principal

exemplary vision. The high points of that candid discussion
aregivenherein.
Carol, please brief our audience about your firm, its
USPs, and how you are currently positioned as one of
the best Architectural Designing Solution Providers.
We are a cochin-based firm aiming to define spaces in the
best way possible for the common people–by forming
highly functional and visually aesthetic designs yet keeping
the economic aspect of the project in check.
To achieve this, we work on two simple philosophies:
Economic Innovation: to ideate solutions to design,
material and methods by thinking out of the box and not
restricting ourselves to conventional construction and
interior design methods.
Imaginative Iterations: Functions and Aesthetics are
created to their highest efficiency and negate any iteration,
resulting in budget expansion.
While these are our internal operating procedures for
creating homes, we also hold the client as important to our
processes. Our first step is to recognize and acknowledge
our client’s requirements and set that as a stage for all
designs to be developed.
Since our designs are for the common people–radical
designs are not usually on the checklist for our clients or us.
But at the same time, we intimate, educate and demonstrate
the uses and advantages of modern or unconventional
designs, thus bringing visual aesthetics a stronger part of
the game than it would have been otherwise.
Clients are constantly involved in every iteration, and we
believe the client should share a spot in the design process.
We want to achieve a contemporary yet economical
design–but more importantly, we hope that our team and
the client will have had a learning experience from each
other.
For us, it is the additional set of ideas that were formulated
that we can reuse in other plans or designs, and for the
client, it’s a newfound outlook on architecture and its depth.
Tell us more about your firm’s offerings and what
aspects make it stand out in the cutthroat competition.
We offer residential and commercial design solutions for
projects of any size, but our experience in our five years
thus far has our team specialized in layouts that span at
most an acre of land.
Being for the common people, our niche is to provide
functional, aesthetic, and contemporary design solutions by
restricting them to the economic limitations of our client.
Additionally, we are very much like a startup; thus, our
valuable trait is the attention to detail given to the clients’
requests and immediate reactions to their queries. We
operate the same way–by tackling the smallest of requests
in the biggest of ways possible.
Each project is united teamwork from our end to connect
the spatial requirements of the clients to the realistic
outcomes achieved from each minute decision.
As an experienced leader, what do you think of modern
technologies like AI and ML impacting your niche and
how your firm adapts to the change?
The evolution of technology can be quicker, and the
possibility of being trampled by it in architecture practice is a
prospect that is overlooked in most scenarios. For instance,
the adaptation ofAI is seen to happen faster with construction
companies abroad. This can result in a future possibility of
vacating architects from making crucial decisions regarding
the design execution and implementation. But AI can never
To date,
has handled
over 80 projects
across various
parts of Kerala
and South India in
the last five years.

replace architecture practice, as it has the restrained domain of
influenceonnatureandhumaninclinations.
At the same time, architects can add value to their practice by
integrating data and applications to warrant a sturdier
business. It can be used to replace banal chores to utilize it as a
not human replacement but make systems execute tasks that
can be done best by them. In doing so, architects utilize time
more efficiently on creative output, eventually adding value to
the profession. Computational design tools like LunchBox for
Grasshopper and Dynamo, including machine learning (ML)
components, or even learning to run a small script in
Microsoft Excel, can help architects to allot their time and
money to more relevant and non-replaceable tasks. The more
automation is incorporated into the design, the further the
firm's productivity and the more refined the proposal
delivered to the client. The development of the visual logic
can help develop workflows that investigate and refine the
geometryandfunctioningofthedesignmodels.
We focus on integrating technology into the design process in
primarily generating the hectic designs and developing the
patterns utilizing scripts in Grasshopper that can not only save
time in the development of the output but also leave an
element of unpredictability within the design space. This
often sparks a new perspective to consider in the design
process, ultimately adding more value to the final product by
refining it in a way that aids in generating a refined proposal in
acompacttime.
Considering the current scenario, what initial challenges
did you face, and what are the challenges now?
As with any new firm, our initial challenges were the same.
Funding and getting clients were top priorities. We
confronted these challenges by portraying our digital
methods of layout creation where the plan and the elevation
could be shown in 3D models to the client before
construction.
This enabled most clients to see what they were about to
build, which was relatively new in the market.
Introducing and training our in-house staff in parametric
designing was another time-intensive task. We analyzed our
team members’ learning times to create procedures where
new learning methods could be incorporated.
The first and final investment rounds were from Family, and
the firm continues to have them as a bedrock in times of
financial inadequacies.

This will result in much better attention to detail and an
increased number of project iterations. Furthermore, this
enables the firm's principal architects to look at more
important matters – especially not limited to designs.
After this expansion, our next phase will include a
concierge team that can handle incoming client queries and
meetings, freeing up space for the technical team’s desk to
enhance their focus on the iterations without worrying
about handling client emotions.
In such a system, more radical and out-of-the-box methods
can be thought of and incorporated into the iterations,
ensuring the best possible solution for the client.
We have now overcome the aforementioned scenarios and are
currently scaling up operations by creating internal processes
where the number of iterations for a client can potentially
increase. This is done by stretching the current mode
operations into multiple levels, which can introduce a finer
looker at the details, thus ensuring quality at every turn. We
are trying to find the right junior architects with the right
outlook on their work and compassion for the job who can be
thenmadeinchargeof thesesub-processes.
This will also help us manage the current pipeline of
projects, which can be hard for the team to juggle with each
other.
What would be your advice to budding entrepreneurs
who aspire to venture into the Architectural Designing
Solution space?
The first bit of advice is to have compassion for the trade.
The challenges can vary from person to person, but the
factor that allows most successful architects to endure is
their love of design. Always find time to practice skills and
design, no matter how busy or hard it gets. By removing all
the technical details of construction, we are artists. We
survive only if we can continue to create new ideas, layouts
and methods.
Secondly, I would encourage budding architects to under-
stand that the time taken to create an industry-wide go-to
name is quite large. Hence, persistence without focusing too
much on profits would be a good outlook. The best word of
mouth can be your clients and the work you create. Hence
make sure there are no compromises on that.
Finally, be humble. If there are projects in which you
believe you cannot contribute to the best of your ability,
then it’s better to let them go. It could be chemistry with
you and the client, it could be the design style that they
have, it could be budget constraints, or it could be time
constraints. Only commit to projects where you believe
your work can truly make a difference to the client and the
community or locality of the project.
How do you envision scaling your firm’s operations and
offerings in the future?
At this time, we are scoping out the changes required for
scaling up the firm. We aim to introduce further processes
and departments, which will allow the current process of
ideation and iterations to go through multiple phases and
multiple people.

The most successful entrepreneurs I know are optimistic.
It’s part of the job description.
- Caterina Fake
”
”

Monica Gupta Founder and Director

truly innovative mind is a neurological beehive of
Acreative ideas flying with their magic of limitless
imagination by defying every law in the books
ever proven. The restlessness of the rebelliously constant
change shatters the boundaries of the past to usher the
present into the futuristic times, again proving that we
must embrace novelty with an open mind no matter what.
Those of us divergent enough to carve out our
transformative thinking can, in reality, change the world
for the better.
If you don’t believe it, ask the Bumblebees, who have been
flying since their species came into existence by defying
all laws of aerodynamics. It might be thanks to their being
unaware of the laws themselves, but they have been
inspiring wise humanity from the age of sensibility and the
dawn of reasoning.
“Bumblebees at Interactive Bees – a full-service brand
communication agency – are our inspiration, too,
says the Founder and Director, Monica Gupta.
Interactive Bees started in 2008 when the ‘start-up’
buzzword was still finding its ground, and companies were
playing safe by using traditional marketing solutions for
branding purposes. Already worked as a seasoned
marketing professional, Monica realized that with the
changing world, brands needed more than just traditional
marketing; they required an integrated approach to
marketing which comprises both conventional as well as
digital with a secret and a smart ingredient what she terms
as ‘Brand Storytelling.’
She explains, “Let’s take an example of the days when our
grandparents told us stories.” The stories were not just
read; they were told with words that children could
visualise. There were sound effects and voice modulations
infused in the narration, and the story remained imprinted in
our brains, waiting to be retold. It is the USP of Interactive
Bees, which is a complete Brand Communication Agency,
that offers 360° integrated brand-building solutions that
leave an imprint on the consumer's mind with a favourable
image and top-of-the-mind recall. She adds, “Our beehive
of experienced professionals design unique solutions
customised according to each area of business; Our list of
client testimonials encompasses a rich mix of brands from
various industry segments - B2B, B2C, NGOs and even
Government Organizations.”
Regaling her journey in this industry and how she made the
brand Ibees excel in its niche, Monica says she knew it
wouldn’t be easy, but she was sure it was possible. As a
child, she struggled with dyslexia, but with determination,
she overcame all mental blocks and rose above the
challenges. Meditation has helped her in this journey of
realising her creative and logical potential and building a
path of her own through hard work and perseverance.
For about a decade, she worked across industry-leading
creative teams, driving innovative projects and successfully
delivering solutions to clients until it was time to choose the
obvious path of starting her own company. On
th
17 December 2008, Interactive Bees was formed along
with a group of passionate professionals equipped with
different expertise.
We Believe, We Can
Make Your Brand Fly High
on the Success Tree
INTERACTIVE
BEES

Creating a Buzz
From the start, Monica’s vision of Interactive Bees was
about creating a holistic Brand Communication agency that
works as a solution provider for the overall brand identity
creation, brand positioning and marketing communication
design and development for various brands. From Offline
(Brand Identity Creation, Communication Style and Design
Creation, Print Designs, Films) to BTL (events, designs,
etc.) to Digital Marketing (owned, social, marketplace,
bought and earned media), “We have gradually built our
niche as the ultimate destination for overall brand
communication. I am happy to say that in fourteen years,
Interactive Bees has created a buzz amongst the who’s who
of the Brand Advertising world and has been the proud
recipient of numerous titles and awards in this field,”
she says with a smile.
Being a holistic Brand Communication Agency is not just
about being creative; Monica encourages her team to
practice a research-based work process at Interactive Bees.
Therefore, their client list is not limited to a particular
business segment. They excel in B2C brand communication
and have mastered the art of brand positioning in the B2B
segment, which helps them fly high even in such volatile
times. Dedication and passion for the work and doing it
innovatively with customised solutions delivered are the
practices that keep them ahead of the competition, along
with quick and timely turnaround.
The Power of Change
Whether in her personal life or managing Interactive Bees,
Monica ensures that their vision remains focused and that
their attitude tackles every challenge as another stepping
stone towards success.
She shares, “Well, frankly, we have always loved and
stayed headstrong with our Purpose of creating the agency,
which gives us clarity on; “Why am I doing what I am
doing?” Clear individual and organisational purpose
awareness, which is well-aligned, and we constantly keep
the attention.”
Being an experienced leader, sharing her opinion on how
adopting modern technologies like AI and ML impacts her
industry and how Ibees is adapting to the change, Monica
says she started Interactive Bees when the marketing world
was transitioning towards digital, “And we all know that the
industry has seen a tremendous transformation within the
last decade.”
The Tech-Nectar
It is not incorrect to say that ‘those who adapt and adopt’
are growing. AI and Machine Learning have created their
presence in all aspects of human communication and
learning. While many believe this will lead to many jobs
becoming irrelevant and redundant in the near future,
she believes they will evolve.
“Many of us are spiralling and getting stressed when it's
time to evolve by using the latest technologies for our good.
At Interactive Bees, we take modern technology as a
learning ground and find a balance between the creativity of
employees and the convenience of technology.”
Let’s take an example of the recent buzz around ChatGPT;
though much about it is still to be understood, Ibees
creative team is already optimising their skillset by working
around concepts like prompt engineering and its application
within their arena. They believe technology interwoven
with human creativity can result in tremendous success.
The Honeycomb
Considering the current industry scenario, Monica accepts
there are challenges they face, yet they drive their company
to overcome these obstacles. The market has been highly
volatile for the past few years, especially as uncertainty
loomed during the COVID times, because of the Work from
home, business-from-home cultures and a lot of new
normals creeping up. Creating and maintaining their
position in the market and holding together a team of more
than sixty people at a time when clients have limited their
Interactive Bees is a complete
Brand Communication Agency,
offering 360° integrated brand-marketing
solutions and leaving an imprint
on the consumer's mind
with a favourable image and
top-of-the-mind recall.

budgets and attrition is at an all-time high, they know the
quality of their work will help them overcome all hurdles.
“The way ahead for every company in the business of client
servicing is to create an ecosystem where your customer
becomes our spokesperson, and that for us is Mission
Accomplished!” she believes.
Her advice to budding entrepreneurs who aspire to venture
into the Brand Communicators niche is simple – keep your
vision straight and focused. Understand your client’s
requirements very well. It is essential for every person
trying to make their mark in the industry to take care of and
respect themselves and their team in all situations. There
will be challenges along the way. As we are in a highly
volatile and fast-moving arena, be flexible and innovative,
and keep upskilling is her mantra.
The Beehive of the Future
On envisioning scaling Interactive Bees’ operations and
offerings in the future, Monica reveals they have reached
the threshold of completing 14 years, overcoming many
challenges and growing steadily by focusing on delivering
quality service to their clients. She envisions Interactive
Bees as the preferred agency for brands across industries.
A happy team balanced with go-getter attitudes will keep
the creativity buzzing and the agency moving ahead. “We
are working towards scaling up our operations by serving
clients beyond national borders and helping potential start-
ups create their brand communication strategy from brand
visibility to public relations,” she says, adding her clients’
praises for Interactive Bees.
§ Shabana Rahman: Deputy General Manager at
Century Plyboards -
“Monica makes everyone see the best in every situation and
strive for excellence. She is a team player and will take you
through her ideas, make you believe and participate in her
vision and then commence work. It is the quality that makes
her different from any other agency head that I have worked
with. She is passionate about her work and doesn't fear
giving her opinion on ideas and strategies if she thinks they
will not benefit the brand. Over the years, I have also seen
her do much pro-Bono work for causes she believes in. She
is a very inspiring woman who manages to find balance in
the chaos and would do tons of good for any brand she
works with. All the best!”
§ Moumita Sarkar: Marketing Manager at Fortis
Healthcare -
“Monica is a true professional who believes deeply in
delivering excellence. She helped us to develop an
advanced E-commerce website, and she has been a reliable
partner for our Marketing needs. It's been absolutely
fantastic working with her. She is extremely creative with
full of skills and knowledge in this field and understands
clients' requirements very easily. I respect her immensely as
a versatile professional with an impeccable value
system.”

Her Story

Top
Ten Trends
in
Gender Equal
Workplaces
The narrative of the modern workplace is
undergoing a transformation, with gender equality
taking center stage. From boardrooms to startups, a
wave of change is empowering women and dismantling
long-held biases.
In the pursuit of gender equality, workplaces around the
world are undergoing significant transformations. From
diversity initiatives to inclusive policies, organizations are
increasingly recognizing the importance of creating
environments where all individuals, regardless of gender,
have equal opportunities to thrive. Here are the top ten
trends shaping gender equal workplaces today:
Shattering the Glass Ceiling: The rise of women in
leadership positions is undeniable. From CEOs like Mary
Barra (GM) and Indra Nooyi (former PepsiCo) to venture
capitalists like Anne Wojcicki (23andMe), women are
breaking barriers and proving their mettle. This shift is not
just symbolic; it paves the way for future generations of
women to aspire to leadership roles. Organizations are
investing in leadership development programs tailored
specifically for women. These programs provide
mentorship, networking opportunities, and skill-building
workshops to help women advance into leadership roles and
break through the glass ceiling.
Embracing Flexible Work: Gone are the days of rigid,
inflexible work models. Organizations are recognizing the
diverse needs of their employees, offering options like
remote work, flexible hours, and childcare support. This
fosters a work-life balance that benefits everyone,
especially women often burdened with disproportionate
caregiving responsibilities. The COVID-19 pandemic
accelerated the adoption of flexible work arrangements,
including remote work and flexible hours. This trend has
continued as organizations recognize the benefits of
allowing employees to balance work and personal
responsibilities, particularly for women who often shoulder
caregiving duties.
Combating Unconscious Bias: Unconscious biases,
ingrained societal beliefs, can subtly hinder women's
progress. Organizations are tackling this issue through
awareness training, mentoring programs, and diverse
interview panels, ensuring a level playing field and fair
evaluation of talent. Unconscious bias training raises
awareness of implicit biases that may influence decision-
making processes, including hiring, promotion, and
performance evaluations. By addressing bias at all levels of
the organization, companies can create fairer and more
equitable workplaces.

Pay Transparency and Equity: Closing the gender pay
gap remains a top priority for organizations committed to
gender equality. Companies are conducting regular pay
audits, implementing transparent salary structures, and
advocating for equal pay for equal work to ensure that
women are compensated fairly for their contributions. The
gender pay gap persists, but transparency is key to
addressing it. Initiatives like salary audits and open
discussions about compensation are crucial steps towards
ensuring equal pay for equal work.
Investing in STEM and Entrepreneurship: Encouraging
girls and young women to pursue careers in science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields
and supporting women-led businesses are critical for long-
term gender equality. Initiatives like coding bootcamps and
mentorship programs are paving the way for an inclusive
future.
Prioritizing Health and Well-being: Organizations are
recognizing the link between employee well-being and
productivity. This translates into providing comprehensive
healthcare benefits, mental health support, and resources for
managing stress, especially important for women
navigating demanding careers and personal lives.
Celebrating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Initiatives: DEI initiatives are becoming integral to
organizational culture, with a focus on creating diverse and
inclusive workplaces where all individuals feel valued and
respected. From diversity training to affinity groups,
companies are taking proactive steps to foster belonging
and combat bias. Diversity and inclusion initiatives go
beyond gender, encompassing race, ethnicity, sexual
orientation, and other identities. Creating a work
environment that celebrates diverse perspectives and
experiences enriches the whole organization and fosters
innovation.
Leveraging Technology and Data: Technology can be a
powerful tool for promoting gender equality. Using data to
analyze hiring practices, assess pay equity, and track
progress on diversity goals helps organizations identify and
address biases, ensuring data-driven decision making.
Mentorship and sponsorship programs are essential for
supporting the career advancement of women. These
programs pair experienced leaders with rising female talent,
providing guidance, advocacy, and opportunities for
professional growth.
Amplifying Women's Voices: Creating spaces for women
to share their ideas, concerns, and experiences is crucial.
Employee resource groups, workshops, and mentorship
programs provide platforms for women to connect,
advocate for themselves, and be heard. Also, to mitigate
bias in the recruitment process, organizations are adopting
gender-neutral job descriptions, blind resume screening,
and diverse hiring panels. By removing gender-related
barriers, companies can attract and retain top talent from
diverse backgrounds.
Building a Culture of Respect, Transparency, and
Accountability: Transparency and accountability are
essential for driving progress towards gender equality.
Organizations are setting clear diversity goals, tracking
metrics related to gender representation and pay equity, and
holding leaders accountable for advancing diversity and
inclusion initiatives. Ultimately, creating a gender-equal
workplace requires a cultural shift. This involves fostering a
culture of respect, where inappropriate behaviour is not
tolerated, and holding individuals and organizations
accountable for upholding standards of inclusivity and
fairness.
These ten trends are not just individual initiatives; they are
woven together, creating a tapestry of progress. As we
move forward, it's crucial to recognize the ongoing
challenges, celebrate successes, and continue advocating for
a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive
and reach her full potential.

We help our
customers accelerate
life sciences research,
solve complex
challenges, improve
success and increase
lab productivity.
Mrs Vaishali Sharma,
CEO

Leading a New Global Era of Biotechnology
Nirav Biosolutions
Private Limited
he modern era, biotechnology has become the
Tfoundation of global healthcare. Although prior to
the pandemic, the industry was moving at a
constant pacethriving to keep up with the expectations.
However, new diseases and viruses were becoming regular,
while only a handful of people with scientific insights and
interest were willing to invest in the R&D of the healthcare
and life sciences.
That was also in mostly foreign countries and not in India.
These foreign companies would establish their regional
office in the country. Still, they would struggle to get
precise professional talent and students keen on taking up
medical R&D as their future career. All this happened when
everybody understood that R&D is the backbone of the
entire life science, healthcare, and biotechnology industry.
While working at two giant pharmaceutical companies,
initially as a Professional Service Officer at Pfizer and as a
Regional Manager of the west zone at Millipore, Pravin
Sharma observed this for almost eight years before being
ready to provide a solution for sure in the form of Nirav
Biosolutions Pvt Ltd, a Life Science company
incorporated in 2012. Soon, his wife, Mrs Vaishali
Sharma, joined him and the company as a CEO.
A Purposeful Innovation
Vaishali shares, "Incorporated in March 2012, we have
completed ten years of serving life science. We help our
customers accelerate life sciences research, solve complex
challenges, improve success, and increase lab
productivity. Through our premier, we offer an unmatched
combination of innovative technologies, purchasing
convenience and comprehensive services. We provide
scientists and engineers with best-in-class lab materials,
technologies and services."
The founders clearly envision adding value to its esteemed
clients in Life Science Research. Strategically every
initiative was driven with a clear thought to bridge gaps and
provide a solution to researchers.
Initially, Nirav started as a biotech trading company with a
small team of technically competent people who could
understand applications in life science and provide
appropriate solutions.
Vaishali adds, "Within one year of inception, we found
ourselves a favourite among Biotech Product Manufacturers
who believed in our technical capabilities. We have the
privilege of working with some of the best brands in the
industry like Thermo Fisher Scientific, Invitrogen, BD
Bioscience, and Pall Lifesciences in the early phase of our
business.”
Turnaround and Turnover
To begin with, Nirav Biosolutions worked for customers in
the peripheries of Pune. Still, soon it was given an
opportunity to work with some elite customers in Pune like
CSIR-NCL, ICMR-NIV and NCCS among the central
government institutes and Lupin Limited, Gennova
Biopharmaceuticals and Emcure among the Pharma sectors.
Although it grew at a decent pace in the initial years, it was
not taking up big projects because of the financial
limitations of the organization. The first big project it took
up was in 2016, when it set up a functional Genomics Lab
at Chitale Dairy for their Buffalo breading program.

The value of the project was 25% of Nirav's annual
turnover then.
Vaishali puts, "This project was a turnaround in our
thought process, and handling such big projects became
a routine activity for us.”
A Strategic Leap of Invention
By 2017 Nirav Biosolutions was ready to take a second leap
in terms of starting up a wet lab with the name Institute of
Applied Biology Research and Development (IABRD).
This lab has three primary objectives.
· To train master's students who wish to pursue a career
in R&D or QC in Biopharma and Pharma Drug
discovery, we wanted to do something for the young
generation because students don't have the practical
experience they need to get a job.
Vaishali adds, "We started the lab with the purpose
in mind of contributing toward better
employability."
· To support the research activities of Universities
and Academic institutes to work in the Applied
side of Biology.
· To provide a contract research lab which works
on Invitro studies at the cellular and molecular
level for new drug targets by the
Biopharma/Pharma companies and International
CROs.
Fighting From the Front
Vaishali remembers, "Our real metal was tested during the
recent COVID-19 pandemic, where within complete
lockdown and unavailability of any commercially
approved testing kit.”
ICMR-NIV was at the epicentre of testing COVID samples
ﬂowing across the country. This was the most challenging
/demanding /emotional time of my life with small kids and
old in-laws at home, and no team member was available.
Vaishali states, "Fortunately, we – Mr Pravin Sharma, my
husband (also my business partner), and I had to arrange the
required raw material for manufacturing COVID-19 testing
kits with no logistic support.”
They travelled from the airport to the airport of
Bangalore, Pune Mumbai, with the thought process of
contributing towards the pandemic. It was the most
challenging time on the people, product availability, and
ﬁnancial sides. They worked 24×7 to support NIV.

They had to handle five times their turnover in one year,
and they clocked their first 100 Cr plus turnover that
year.
However, Vaishali says proudly, "Rather than the
turnover, what was more satisfying was that we could
serve the nation when it was most needed. We are
thankful to ICMRNIV and our principal client Thermo
Fisher Scientific for trusting in us.”
Vaishali states, "A lot of basic research has happened in
our country over a few decades, and there are many
aspiring scientists who are coming up with their
innovations in healthcare with the support of the
Government initiative under BIRAC." This is definitely
going to boost the industry.
Putting Down the Pandemic
Discipline, Integrity and Positivity
Recently Nirav Biosolutions celebrated its 10th anniversary
in a new office space. Vaishali feels, "With a humble
beginning from a 330 Sq. ft office to a 3000 sq. ft. it is a
fulfilling journey." Even for IABRD, the new lab is
designed to be GLP compliant; this setup needs to work in
the drug discovery domain offering its services to Pharma
and Biopharma customers looking for discovery service
partners. Also, it will give students the experience of
training in a GLP-compliant lab.
Vaishali reveals, "Our Vision is" To be a leading Solution
Provider in the life science industry for the betterment of
the Planet. As per our mission statement, we plan to take
thebrand globally."
With the Government initiative of Start-up and Make in
India, many Biotech startups are coming up. And with its
strengths being Marketing and Sales, Nirav Biosolutions
would like to take these brands to the international market.
"We have already started building capabilities around this
and are associated with many start-ups," says Vaishali.
Ritualistic Continuous Improvement
According to Vaishali, from the business perspective,
COVID-19 has made the world realise the promise that
Biotechnology holds, whether diagnostics or vaccines.
Secondly, it has made the Biotech Industry and
International Regulatory Authorities realise that they were
really moving at a very sluggish pace. They have the
capability of developing health care solutions at a much
faster rate.
The coming years will be for therapeutic antibodies,
vaccines, POC (point of care) solutions, molecular
diagnostics and Biosimilar.
About their pandemic experience and overcoming it,
Vaishali says, "During the pandemic, we had to be on the
front foot as we were the only leading suppliers to ICMR,
NIV, which was the epicentre of all the diagnostics during
the first wave when no kits were available.
As a policy, we provide opportunities to freshers from rural
parts. Post Lockdown announcement, our team had to be
mobilized to their hometown as no PGs were working.”
Most of the activity involved physical involvement in
arranging COVID testing reagents and delivering them to
ICMR-NIV; Nirav Biosolutions had to operate with
logistics support.
"However, teams were kept engaged in online training and
motivational talks from our side. We also kept them updated
about what was happening at the ground level," reveals
Vaishali.
Value Adding Tech-Knowledge
Vaishali's opinion on biotech companies' need to align their
offerings with technologies like AI and ML, especially
when catering to the ever-evolving healthcare needs, is
cautiously optimistic. She says that having AI and ML in
the Biotech manufacturing process can bring in a lot of
automation and reduce error, thereby improving
productivity.
It is a personal belief that the same should not be applied in
diagnostics and treatment because it can never replace
clinical findings. Also, AI and ML will play a very limiting
role in the Research and Development of new therapies as
biological systems are complex and do not function like a
machine.
However, AI and ML can assist in both healthcare and R&D
to capture data, reproduce it for future reference, and
provide some analytics which can guide Clinicians and
Scientists to take decisions, but it cannot become SOP.

Encouraging Individual Initiatives
As an established industry leader, Vaishali's advice to
budding entrepreneurs and enthusiasts aspiring to venture
into the healthcare services industry is precise. As per her
experience, healthcare needs will be ever-increasing with
the population. Also, the preventive health check is
increasing with growing healthcare awareness and
insurance support. Lastly, post-pandemic Biotechnology
will proliferate in areas like immunisation, therapeutic
antibodies, biosimilar and POC devices. So, all budding
entrepreneurs should be focusing on this area.
The other central area where Biotechnology can serve is in
the sustainability of resources on the planet for the survival
of life on the earth. So, Biofuel, Biofertilizers, and
Livestock Management are a few other areas to focus on. "I
recommend doing a personal and industry SWOT analysis
before venturing into the industry," suggest Vaishali.
Building Enduring Relationships
Vaishali's vision of further strengthening Nirav
Biosolutions' stronghold in 2022 and beyond is meticulous.
She says, "By 2027 we,
· Intend to Develop bio clusters in rural India
· Reach PAN India
· 20% Revenue from Exports
· Contributing to drug discovery and clinical research
area
· Establish a Service Organization to Serve the
Customers Better
· Build and Start Facilities for Manufacturing.”
So, the year 2022 would be the foundation year for Nirav's
next five years' plans. It is infusing experienced team
members and doubling the team size. It has already
increased its infrastructure and built up a GLP-compliant
lab.
Vaishali says, "We are working on setting up systems and
processes like CRM and ERP on the cloud. We are
collaborating with new principals and OEM
manufacturers to reach out to at least three states by the
end of the financial year 2022.
For this, we are looking for an association with some
business with whom we can establish synergy and work
together.”
Expanding the Vision of Vishwaguru
Nirav Biosolutions is working in rural areas, taking
seminars and providing hands-on training on advanced
technologies to students because Vaishali and the team
Nirav believes in providing equal opportunities to all.
The biotechnology industry in India is going to grow at a
supersonic speed. For that, the workforce will be needed.
"We want to increase the employability of students from the
rural areas. It is also our dream to engage, encourage and
enable 25000 biologists by giving them an experience of
advanced applied biological research by 2025, helping
them reach their full potential," says Vaishali.
Finally, she concludes, "Our present and future purpose is
to enrich and accelerate research in Applied Biology for
the betterment of mankind through high-quality scientific
tools, expertise and experience of developing innovative
solutions."

When people are financially invested, they want a
return. When people are emotionally invested,
they want to contribute.” – Simon Sinek,
American author, and inspirational speaker
Rightly quoted by Simon, the importance of human
resources and handling them carefully with a kind,
empathic and caring approach makes an interesting
difference.
Often it is noticed that the human resource teams and even
the management members are occupied in various human
resource tasks and activities, which is time-consuming. It
becomes a smarter option to hire a professional human
resource consulting firm that can plan, organize, support,
and execute important functions in the right and effective
manner.
Talent Search Management Consulting (TSMC), guided
by Reema Nakra, Founder and Director, stands as a
glaring example of a professional human resource
consulting and training firm that offers organizations
customized solutions that address their major human
resource requirements.
TSMC is a leading HR consulting and leadership training
company headquartered in New Delhi, India. It provides
dynamic, comprehensive, and implementable solutions to
the corporate world, enabling organizations to nurture and
sustain a competitive edge through Human Resources with
a focus on quality.
In an interesting interview with the Insights Success team,
Reema overwhelmingly expressed about her professional
journey, inspirations, ideas, challenges faced and countered,
Talent Search
Management Consulting
Empowering Businesses with Human Resource Finesse
Reema Nakra, Founder and Director

What are the USPs that highlight your TSMC’s
uniqueness in the industry?
Our USP is thinking out of the box. What exactly makes it
our "USP"? By continuing to give repeat work orders, our
long-term clients confirm again and again that our unique
selling point is the quality of our service. The fact we carry
out all processes - from briefing to filling the vacancy;
efficiently, carefully, and intensively. The TSMC team
works with complete dedication and, of course, also brings
them to a successful conclusion.
Sustainability is the foundation of our existence, which
means that we recruit the best possible candidate for any
vacancy with a long-term effect. Keeping a critical distance,
objective assessment, as well as procurement and
and her vision of how TSMC is headed for a dynamic
future.
What is your inspiration behind venturing into the
business arena?
Focus on your passion; nothing else matters. I am very
passionate about Human Resource Management (HRM)
and wanted to start consulting to help companies grow and
create employable opportunities with a vision of
transforming people's lives, autonomy, and a sense of
accomplishment.
What were the initial challenges that you had to
surmount to ensure your start-up’s success rate reached
greater heights?
The biggest challenge was financial management, team
stability, client acquisition, and client retention.
What professional values and qualities do you think
your clients value in you and TSMC the most?
The key qualities that have been appreciated by clients are a
high sense of responsibility with proper accountability of all
the tasks planned and worked out. At TSMC, we associate
every project and assignment with a fixed Turn Around
Time (TAT) that is shared with the clients in the proposal-
follow-ups-completion stages. The team maintains high
relevancy of our work with utmost sincerity and integrity.
The special focus lies in the quality of the services-what we
do; we do it well. TSMC is reputed due to our dedicated
customer support, embedded leadership, and the courage to
shape a better future.
At TSMC, our major focus is
on engaging with clients in
a consulta ve mode – where
the talent search is based on
the iden fied role, profile
challenges, etc.
“
“

Awards and Accolades
Ÿ Reema Nakra- Best Indian Author-2021
for the Book The Unstoppable Creative by
CriticSpace Literary Journal, featured in
Nationals/Internationals
Ÿ Best women Leadership Award by
Glantor-x-2022
Ÿ Best Author of the Year by LIFT
Magazine for the Book- The Unstoppable
Creative
Ÿ Talent Search Management Consulting
has been recognized as TOP7 HR
consulting in India by Business Talks.
Ÿ TSMC has been awarded Best
Recruitment Company Globally-2022 by
Great Companies-24
Ÿ Reema Nakra – Winner of Sahityakosh
Samman Award 2022 by Ne8x official.
Ÿ Reema Nakra- Honored with Tagore
Commemorative 2022 for literacy
Contribution and beyond by Ne8X official
evaluation of references, are the guarantors. Since one-off
business is not our objective. Our existence is based on
long-term customer relations and mutual trust. A significant
fact in this context is that today we are still working
together with several clients from our start-up years.
As an experienced professional, what would you like to
advise the budding aspirants willing to enter the
business world?
I would advise young professionals to think differently.
Challenge Yourself to take up new assignments with diverse
requirements. Take the Risk upfront. Understand the client’s
requirements properly. Based on the inputs, propose a
suitable solution in systematic hiring, training, evaluation,
and modern technological tools and applications.
You should have a clear vision. Keep things simple with
proper documentation of the work. Then you should grow
your network as you can get connected with potential
clients from various sources. Make a solid financial plan for
your business that includes capital investment, managing
the fixed and incidental costs, risk mitigation, ROI
calculations, rolling of funds, etc.
How do you envision TSMC’s operations with the
emerging technologies and automated tools that are
revolutionizing the business world by enabling
innovations?
Emerging technology can enable enterprise goals — but
only if properly implemented. We are going with a flow.
Properly implemented, emerging technologies can be
powerful in helping companies solve business problems,
scale on demand, improve resiliency, and deploy
technology solutions rapidly and securely. Companies
should conduct a digital maturity assessment and determine
areas where emerging technology could provide the greatest
value or enable the organization to deliver on its strategies
with greater certainty or at a faster pace. It’s also critical to
have effective change management during the transition;
otherwise, any technology program will never truly reap the
intended benefits.

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