Invest in start-ups for innovation, advises entrepreneur Chahil

Entrepreneur and philanthropist Satjiv Singh Chahil has urged business leaders to change their spending habits. He suggests that instead of buying luxury cars, they should invest in start-ups or university research labs. Chahil spoke at the Panjab University Colloquium Lecture in Chandigarh, emphasizing the potential for positive change through these investments. Chahil highlighted that India should aim to create products for the global market, not just for itself. He believes this shift could help India become a leader in technology, much like China. According to him, Indian professionals have the skills needed to innovate on a global scale. During his talk, Chahil reflected on his own education at Panjab University, which played a crucial role in his career. He pointed out that many did not view commerce as important during his studies, but his experiences there prepared him for future opportunities. His proficiency in German helped him gain entrance to a prestigious management school in the U.S. and a job at IBM. Chahil described Silicon Valley as a mindset filled with collaboration and resilience. He praised the leadership of Panjab University’s vice-chancellor, Renu Vig, noting her unique background in artificial intelligence. He suggested she connect with professionals in Silicon Valley. In response to questions about the English language, Chahil stated that it provides Indians with a competitive advantage abroad. He acknowledged that while there may be negative aspects of British colonialism, English fluency has helped many Indian students excel in international settings. The Panjab University Colloquium Series aims to foster dialogue between prominent figures in various fields and the university community, offering valuable insights on important issues.