Exploring the synergy between Army social responsibility and Corporate social responsibility in 'Valour and Values' by Brig Rajiv Williams YSM (Retd.)

Brigadier Rajiv Williams, YSM (Retd.), presents a compelling case on the relationship between Army Social Responsibility (ASR) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), drawing from his 33 years of military experience in his book ' Valor and Values '. He states in his book that “Army Social Responsibility is neither a rule nor an exception but a tool that, when activated, could do wonders to improve holistic community engagement with the military.” The book talks about how military social duties have expanded beyond traditional 'aid to civil authorities,' creating pathways for collaboration between ASR and CSR.

Through real-world examples and his lived experiences in conflict zones and peacetime locations, the book juxtaposes ASR principles with the evolving CSR landscape. It illustrates how military values and operational approaches can enhance corporate social initiatives. Projects like Op Samaritan in the Northeast and Op Sadbhavana in Jammu and Kashmir highlight the importance of a deeper connection between the military and civil society. Brigadier Williams shares insights from the 1971 India-Pakistan war and his role in Operation Sadbhavana in Ladakh, one of the coldest inhabited regions in the world. Reflecting on his leadership during the Kargil War, Brigadier Williams observes the consequences of civil-military discord, citing a lack of proper liaison as a major issue. He suggests that better communication and cooperation could have mitigated animosities, reinforcing the value of ASR through humanitarian projects focused on social development in areas like healthcare, education, and environmental conservation. He emphasizes that harmonious civil-military relationships are vital to ensuring an effective flow of information, a key component of conflict management strategies.

These experiences inspired Brigadier Williams to transition to the development sector. After his early retirement from the army, he joined the Jindal Stainless Group as the Head of CSR, serving for 17 years. This period coincided with the rise of CSR as a critical business initiative in India.

The book also examines how CSR funding for Army projects can drive infrastructure development and skill training while highlighting the role of CSR in sustainable business strategies. Brigadier Williams offers a comprehensive overview of India's CSR journey, showcasing its integration into corporate strategies across various industries. This book is a reference point for corporate strategists and policymakers for years to come.