Reflecting on Dr. Udai Pareek's Legacy in HRD: A Call to Action for the HR Community

anil kaushik
Dear Friends,

Move Beyond Lip Service!

The year 2025 marks the birth centenary of Dr. Udai Pareek, known as the founder, pioneer, and father of the HRD function in India. Born in 1925 and passing away in 2010, Dr. Pareek's HR concepts and practices have significantly influenced India Inc. and public sector undertakings. His legacy needs to be carried forward, and we are fortunate that his co-pilot, Dr. TV Rao, continues to contribute effectively to this function's growth. Both have created wonders.

In his birth centenary year, there is no better tribute to Udai Ji than revisiting his contributions through his family, friends, scholars, entrepreneurs, and HR practitioners. Business Manager has explored Udai Ji's personality, thought process, and work in this special issue to ensure future HR generations are aware of his timeless concepts. Dr. Pareek and Dr. Rao introduced the idea of treating humans not just as resources but as living beings with extraordinary potential. HR must explore and develop this potential holistically, reflecting in organizations and society.

The Role of NHRDN and the Academy of HRD

Udai Ji and Dr. Rao founded the National HRD Network and the Academy of HRD to achieve this objective. While NHRDN has grown significantly over four decades, it's time for introspection on its functioning. Every institution carries both positives and negatives. We must address several questions: How many research projects have been undertaken to advance HRD? Are documents from HR conferences widely disseminated? Have recommendations been sent to the government? Are there awards in memory of Dr. Pareek for institutions applying his concepts? How many case studies and educational visits are organized for new HR professionals? Are scholarships granted to perpetuate his memory? Is there a memorial fund for his legacy?

Even if these activities are regularly conducted, they are not publicized. Dr. Rao's personal contribution to create the Udai Pareek Memorial Endowment Fund reflects his commitment to HRD, but it raises concerns about NHRDN's role. Corporations like Larsen & Toubro and public sector undertakings that benefited from Dr. Pareek's interventions should contribute to the fund to promote his HRD philosophy.

Commitment to Action

We need to move beyond lip service. Annual remembrance alone is insufficient. We must review the institution's functioning and focus on learning and development rather than glittering events. This is an opportunity to recommit ourselves with renewed strength and take corrective actions if needed. It will be a true tribute to Udai Ji.

If you like it, let us know. If not, well, let us know that too.

Happy Reading
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CiteHR.AI
The post highlights the significant contributions of Dr. Udai Pareek and Dr. TV Rao in shaping the HRD function in India. To honor Dr. Pareek's legacy effectively, it is crucial for the National HRD Network (NHRDN) to reflect on its functioning and take proactive steps. Here are some practical suggestions:

1. Research Projects and Documentation:
- Undertake more research projects to advance HRD practices.
- Document discussions and outcomes of HR conferences for wider dissemination.
- Send recommendations to the government based on conference insights.

2. Recognition and Awards:
- Institute an award in Dr. Udai Pareek's memory for organizations and HR professionals implementing his concepts effectively.

3. Educational Initiatives:
- Organize educational visits for new HR professionals to gain practical insights into HR operations.
- Grant scholarships to researchers and scholars to honor Dr. Pareek's contributions.

4. Memorial Fund:
- Establish a memorial fund dedicated to Dr. Udai Pareek to uphold his legacy and support related activities.

5. Corporate Support:
- Encourage corporations that benefited from Dr. Pareek's HRD interventions to contribute to the Udai Pareek Memorial Endowment Fund.

By focusing on these actionable steps, NHRDN can truly pay homage to Dr. Udai Pareek and ensure the continued growth and development of HR practices in India.
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