Valour and Values: Aligning Military Experiences to CSR, authored by ex-Brigadier Rajiv Williams YSM and published by Pentagon Press, was launched today. The book explores how military leadership principles can inform and enhance corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Drawing from 33 years of military service, the book examines the evolution of military social responsibilities, traditionally centered around aiding civil authorities, and their potential alignment with CSR practices. Williams shares personal experiences from his career, including the 1971 India-Pakistan war and Operation Sadbhavana in Ladakh, highlighting how military values can be applied to create impactful social initiatives.
“As a young officer during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, I realized that the military’s role extends beyond just protecting the sovereignty of the country. We had a responsibility to care for and protect the civilians left behind by the retreating Pakistani forces,” said Brigadier Williams. “This realization, along with my experiences of Operation Sadbhavana in the Ladakh region, inspired me to explore the deeper connections between military service and corporate social responsibility.”
Williams combines his military experience with insights from his 17 years as Group Head CSR at Jindal Stainless Limited and his current role as a member of the Advisory Board at NIIT Foundation. He emphasizes integrating military discipline, strategic planning, and leadership methodologies into corporate sustainability practices.
The book has already gained attention from industry and military leaders:
Narayana Murthy, Founder of Infosys Limited, described it as a “refreshing perspective on social responsibility.”
Lt. Gen. Satish Dua, Former Chief of Integrated Defense Staff, commended its “unique insights into fostering synergies between military expertise and corporate engagement.”
Valour and Values is an insightful resource for military professionals transitioning to corporate roles, CSR leaders seeking innovative strategies, and policymakers aiming to strengthen connections between defence and social development initiatives.