EDII Reports 105 (January - March 2019)

Abstract

EDII mourns Dr. Patel's untimely demise ... If India has spurred its economic performance over the years, a major credit for it goes to entrepreneurship, the seeds of which were sown by Padma Shri Dr. V. G. Patel. Dr. Patel doesn't need an introduction .... the entrepreneurship fraternity recognises him as the 'Father of Entrepreneurship Movement.' After a legendary life spanning close to eight decades, the leader who was fondly known was 'V. G.' finally laid down his mantle on 4th April 2019, and settled in peace forever. While the country and EDII will miss him; his learnings and his acumen will continue to guide us. He started out in the 1970s, convincing people about a concept which was alien ... But he did not relent. His conviction was such that not just entrepreneurship was accepted by people and the Government, but the concept became so conclusive and rewarding that premier financial institutes agreed to his reason of having a National Resource Institute in Entrepreneurship. He ensured that they pitch in to set up the much celebrated 'Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII).' And then his critical thinking, astute process of management, and immaculately planned implementation processes made sure that EDII becomes a Centre of Excellence. Today the Institute prides its innovative programmes, wide expanse, perfect implementation and smooth functioning - all of which have been bequeathed by Dr. Patel. Aptly so, he was honoured with the Padma Shri on March 30, 2017. With myriad years of yeoman service to promoting entrepreneurship and strengthening its edifice in India and abroad, he has ensured that decision-makers in the Government, students, counsellors, teachers and other resource persons, view 'entrepreneurship' as a primary career option and of overriding importance in catalysing economic growth. Today, we can boast of a large number of entrepreneurship centres and institutes with a distinct place for this discipline in growth policies and planning processes of the Government. And, even on the International level, Dr. Patel had begun the process way too early, i.e., in the 80s. The Institute works with close to 70 developing countries today.What better credence could this great personality and his work have achieved!!! !! And, above all, he gave unique stability to EDII. The transition, after he laid down his office on 28 February, 2003, was smooth. After a long stint, he welcomed change with open arms and left a message for leaders across. He taught that succession in management has to be planned in advance and must begin with delegation of responsibilities and decision making leading to a team of competent, tested and trusted managers /executives with one of them being capable of running the enterprise in the absence of the promoter. Hiswork cannot be summarised in a few pages alll can say is - he was a legend whose life itself is a great lesson and the biggest tribute we can pay to him is by following the path that he has shown to us. He was at the helm of affairs in so many areas for EDII, our constant mentor and guide. We lose our greatest supporter with Dr. Patel. But we promise to continue his legacy of bringing in new dynamism, new energy and new vibrations each day. Entrepreneurship will grow even stronger. The trajectory of entrepreneurship will blossom with our efforts which will emanate from the storehouse of learning which our mentor Dr. V. G. Patel has left behind. - Sunil Shukla