Visit of BCIC Committee to Sathya Sai Grama, 23rd Feb 2024
BCIC (Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce) is the Apex Chamber of Commerce, representing large and medium industries in the State of Karnataka. It has a membership of 850 companies representing various industry sectors such as – Manufacturing, IT/ITES, Biotechnology, Engineering, Consultancy and Legal firms etc.
On 23 Feb 2024, several business leaders from member companies of BCIC visited Sathya Sai Grama, the headquarters of Sri Madhusudan Sai Global Humanitarian Mission (SMSGHM). They were welcomed with a tour of the campus, visiting the SaiSure Nutritions factory that now provides nutritious health drinks to over 9 million children across India, absolutely free of cost. They were shown the newly inaugurated cricket stadium where the recent One World One Family Cup, which promoted unity and human values, was held. They were also taken to the first ever free medical college in India – Sri Madhusudan Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research.
The leaders were present at the touching ‘Gift of Life’ ceremony, where 3 children from underprivileged backgrounds received free, life-saving surgeries in the hospital.
In an enlightening discourse, Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai shared insights on the role of spirituality in business, the importance of ethical wealth creation and the need for businesses to share profits responsibly to create a just, equitable and caring society. He spoke about how businesses should remain focused on doing business ethically and not worry about charity, while charitable organisations like Annapoorna Trust should stay committed to social service. While the businesses should give back to the society, he said they should look for implementing social projects through NGOs and stressed the importance of these projects for long-term sustainable development. He further reiterated the 3S collaboration between the government, NGOs, and businesses that can create efficient models for large-scale social welfare.
Dr. S. Devarajan, President – BCIC and Senior Vice President, TVS Motor Co. Ltd., said there is a positive energy felt by everyone on the campus. He conveyed that they look forward to working with SMSGHM for Nutrition, Education, and Healthcare activities.
The visit inspired the leaders to reflect deeply on operating their businesses with purpose and compassion. It gave them an understanding on how even corporates can positively impact lives at the bottom of the pyramid and make our world more humane, harmonious and hopeful.