Terrorism, bomb blasts, communal riots, political protests: All have become a regular part of our lives. While this is not good for any country, or even its governance, does it have any relationship with the business community and working class people?

Of course! A concept of ‘Risk management’ is becoming an interesting field of study for all business growth. But what does Chanakya have to say?

“For, when the gain is equal there should be peace, when unequal war is considered desirable” (7.8.34)

This is a very interesting statement that Kautilya makes: If there is a win-win situation between two parties, we should consider peace. However, if we are only at the receiving end war has to be considered.

Now how do we decide if we still need peace talks, or it’s time to attack?

1) PUNISHMENTS ARE NECESSARY

In addition to commerce, Arthashastra also is a book about law and order in a society. Therefore, it is also known as Dandaniti (Danda the rod, and Niti the strategy). That is, a book of punishments.

Only if the fear of punishments exists will there be discipline and peace in a society. No one really desires war. But,
at times, they become unavoidable. ‘War against terrorism’ is what politicians are now talking of globally.

2) BUT CONSIDER ALL OPTIONS

Chanakya’s famous theory of Sama, Dana, Danda, Bheda comes into play here. First, try talks and discussions. Not only with the enemies but also with our internal team members. Understand what the ‘enemy’ really wants.

Also, have a dialogue with the leaders of our society businessmen, academicians, artists, spiritual groups, media, etc. Get all of them involved and try to understand what we as a society ‘think’ about it.

3) DECIDE AND ACT

After all this analysis, it’s important to decide the next course of action. A time comes in every country’s history to take a firm decision and then act on it. Such a decision not only changes the course of history, but also decides our very survival.

During the British Raj, many believed that our colony was governed by a ‘Divide and rule’ policy. Sardar Vallabhai Patel, our first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, had a different opinion. He said: “We divide ourselves, and they rule!”

(The author is a ‘strategic leadership’ trainer and consultant and also the Director of SPM FOUNDATION, the vision of which is to bring back ancient Indian knowledge in modern day applications. Can be contacted at rchanakyapillai@spmfoundation.in)

The above article can be found on line – click here:
http://www.mumbaimirror.com/net/mmpaper.aspx?page=article&sectid=5&contentid=20081006200810060226441723fcf2032

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