OREANDA-NEWS. January 31, 2012. Maharatna Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) and the Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE) jointly organised a programme at SCOPE Convention Centre here today to commemorate Martyrs' Day, which is observed on the death anniversary of the Father of the Nation every year. Dr. Karan Singh, visionary Indian statesman, was the Chief Guest on the occasion, which was graced by the presence of Guest of Honour Mr. T.K.A. Nair, Advisor to Prime Minister of India, Mr. P.K. Misra, Secretary (Dept. of Personnel & Training and Ministry of Steel), SAIL Chairman Mr. C.S. Verma, SCOPE Director-General Dr. U.D. Choubey and Eminent Citizen (Ministry of Rural Development) Smt. Shobhana Radhakrishna who delivered a lecture on 'Ethical leadership and values in management practices based on ideology of Mahatma Gandhi'.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Karan Singh remarked that "true homage to Mahatma Gandhi on this day would be to commit ourselves to make concerted efforts to live on at least some of the ideals that he espoused". To talk of fundamental rights is fine, but why don't we talk of our fundamental duties? he asked. Dr. Singh urged the gathering to introspect as to how far have we moved from his ideals, and why even after so many years, there are people who shiver in winter, sweat in summer and get drenched in monsoons because of poor facilities. Gandhiji's movement must be seen in its holistic context, with its political, economic, social and educational perspectives, he added.

Mr. T.K.A. Nair on his part emphasised the significance of the concept of trusteeship that Gandhiji espoused, and explained how it must guide our activities and shape our decisions. "People in position of power and influence must lead by example and be the role models of those they lead," he added

Explaining how SAIL's Vision and Credo internalise the Mahatma's thoughts, principles and philosophy, Mr. C.S. Verma highlighted the fact that Gandhian principles and ideologies continue to be relevant today.

Earlier, Dr. U.D.Choubey in his welcome address, threw light on the values that Gandhiji worked for throughout his life.

The highlight of the programme was the special lecture by Smt. Shobhana Radhakrishna, who has dedicated her life to propagating Gandhian thought. She explained in detail how the ideology of Mahatma Gandhi can be applied at the work place for adopting ethical leadership and values in management practices.

The programme ended with a formal vote of thanks by SAIL Director (Personnel & Technical) Mr. B.B.Singh.