Dr. Kiran Bedi on state stewardship and using influence for social good

Rajeev Peshawaria, CEO of Stewardship Asia Centre, and Neil Humphreys, author and journalist, kick off the first episode of Stewardship Asia Centre's new series Steward Leadership: Maximum Purpose, Maximum Profit. Inspired by his book Sustainable Sustainability, Rajeev shares thought-provoking ideas on how to balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility.

Rajeev and Neil interview Dr. Kiran Bedi, former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, a formidable trailblazer who shares her experiences in state government and as the first female officer of the Indian police. Through case studies of her work addressing water shortage and prison reform, we learn how public-private partnerships can be leveraged for greater public good. For example, by using local companies to clean up irrigation canals in Puducherry, she improved groundwater levels and created a better water supply for the community. Local collaboration to achieve low-cost solutions were key to long-term sustainable results. As a public official, she was able to use her position and influence to achieve a social purpose and create economic opportunity for local businesses. Dr. Kiran's personal conviction shines through and underscore how leadership choices can transform society and create lasting change.