From the grassroots to governance: Dr. Balasubramaniam on leadership, civil society, and India’s future

In a recent interview featured in The American Bazaar, Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, a physician, author, and founder of the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement, shared his insights on leadership, civil society, and the role of community in nation-building. Drawing inspiration from Swami Vivekananda, Dr. Balasubramaniam emphasized the importance of humility and grassroots involvement in solving societal issues. He criticized top-down approaches in philanthropy and advocated for co-creating solutions with communities to ensure sustainable development.

Dr. Balasubramaniam also reflected on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, particularly highlighting his ability to maintain “indriya nigraha” (control over senses), a concept rooted in Kautilya’s philosophy. He noted that modern public leadership often lacks this inner discipline, which is crucial for the welfare of citizens.

Additionally, he addressed the challenges faced by the NGO sector, including credibility concerns, competition for resources, and the need for transparency. He encouraged NGOs to adopt a more collaborative approach with the state, supplementing its efforts rather than attempting to replace it. The essence of his message was clear: true leadership lies in listening to communities, understanding their needs, and working together to bring about meaningful change.

Source: americanbazaaronline.com