Nature or Business: Who Comes First?
This question often stirs my mind, especially when I see trees, flora, and
fauna sacrificed in the name of development. While progress is inevitable and
essential for human advancement, the true test lies in harmonizing development
with preserving nature’s wealth.
My first encounter with this delicate balance was in 1988 during a career
interview at West Coast Paper Mill, Dandeli. Nestled in a
dense forest, the factory premises were almost invisible amidst the greenery.
The atmosphere resembled a well-maintained resort. I vividly remember savoring
hot dosas in their canteen, the aroma so enticing that it tempted one to eat
beyond appetite.
Years later, in 1994, I observed something similar at Century Rayon
and Amar Dye Chem near Kalyan. While working at Amar Dye Chem, I once
had a heated argument with Century's CFO over trees drying up due to chemical
fumes. Fortunately, their Director of Finance stepped in, and we collaborated
on a plan to save the trees.
Fast forward to 1997–2000, when I witnessed a remarkable transformation at Reliance Industries
(RIL) world’s largest grassroots refinery. A barren wasteland became an oasis of orchards. Mukesh Ambani, known for creating the extraordinary, developed the world’s largest mango orchard alongside other fruits. Years later, in 2006, I found Reliance Kesar mangoes at Harrods in London, a testament to this visionary project. Today, his younger son, Anant Ambani, carries the legacy forward with Van Tara, the world’s largest animal shelter within the refinery premises, rehabilitating injured animals.
Long before these examples, Tata had already set a
precedent by creating the world-famous Jamshedpur Township in
the 1930s. Globally, cities like Singapore and India’s Chandigarh
demonstrate that development can coexist with lush greenery and sustainable
planning.
Recently, I visited the Siswan Dam near Chandigarh. The
government has maintained the area's natural beauty, restricting development while encouraging people to enjoy the wildlife and flora. A small restaurant has been permitted, but only to respect and
preserve nature—a brilliant balance of utility and conservation.
This brings me back to the question: does development always come at a cost?
My answer is a resolute no. With vision and commitment, development can
preserve and even enhance nature. Let’s strive for this harmony.
#Nature #Business #Development #Sustainability #Progress #WestCoastPaperMill
#Dandeli #CenturyRayon #AmarDyeChem #Kalyan #RelianceIndustries #MukeshAmbani
#AnantAmbani #VanTara #MangoOrchards #Harrods #Tata #Jamshedpur #Singapore
#Chandigarh #SiswanDam #Wildlife #Conservation #Harmony
