To “set the right example” at a time when India’s Prime Minister has called for responsible resource allocation, Harsh Goenka, chairman, RPG Enterprises, has encourages those employees who can work from home to do so, in line with the Group’s remote working policy.
In his communication to the employees, he has called for “foreign travel to be curtailed to the absolute minimum” and directed that “domestic travel should be significantly reduced”. He has also asked intercity conferences and meetings to be minimised or avoided if possible.
His note also says, “All future company-owned or site-leased cars should be encouraged to be electric or hybrid vehicles”, requesting for acceleration of this shift wherever pending.
Goenka also calls for all meetings to be conducted virtually “to the greatest possible extent” and has requested employees to carpool or use public transportation “whenever viable”.
According to Goenka’s note, by following these measures, employees will “not only support the national agenda” but also strengthen the “internal culture of responsibility, agility and cost-consciousness”.
Calling for “disciplined adherence” within RPG, Goenka hopes that “other corporates will follow suit”.
While most people have found this gesture very thoughtful and commendable, there are some who feel that a balanced approach is a better option for organisations at this hour, with focus on building “sustainable work cultures”.
Some have pointed out that unless “specific direction” is given and specific numbers are fixed it will be difficult for the team leads/HR heads to implement anything based on a “general advisory”. In fact, rushed action may even compromise critical tasks unless there is some structure to these shifts and thorough planning.
The Prime Minister of India had recently appealed to the citizens to stay united and patient in the midst of global uncertainties and amidst the crisis in West Asia, which was affecting everyone across the globe. He had drawn attention to the importance of conserving resources and protecting India’s interests.