Developing a deep connection with our roots and the environment is crucial in today’s rapidly urbanising world. But it also raises a simple, uncomfortable question: do we still care about our native villages, or have we grown so used to urban luxuries that we no longer look back?
Reflecting on this thought, Jishnu Dev Varma, Governor of Telangana, said that many business leaders today are rediscovering their roots by contributing to the development of their native villages while also supporting efforts to protect nature. Calling sustainability a “survival kit for humanity,” Varma said growth cannot come at the cost of the environment. “In India we say Athidhi Devo Bhava, but in the North East we also say Prakriti Devo Bhava,” he added, highlighting the importance of respecting nature alongside people and stressing that development must move beyond metros and reach the masses to create a truly balanced and inclusive future.
He addressed the annual meeting and conference of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Telangana at The Park Hyderabad on Saturday as chief guest, focusing on building a competitive and sustainable Telangana.
Telangana Minister for Labour, Employment and Training, G. Vivek Venkataswamy, presented the Vanmahotsav Awards to the winners. He urged companies to follow safety regulations and highlighted the government’s proactive support for industry development. Emphasizing that economic growth and environmental responsibility go hand in hand, he encouraged businesses to adopt ESG principles and noted the state’s active efforts to upskill the workforce for a sustainable future.
Later on, Thomas John Muthoot, Chairman, CII Southern Region, said Telangana stands at a pivotal point in its development. In just over a decade, the state has shown remarkable progress across sectors. He highlighted ambitions for innovation, green manufacturing, and inclusive growth.
R. Sivaprasad Reddy, Chairman, CII Telangana, spoke on CII’s partnership with the government in industrial policy, skilling, and infrastructure. Telangana’s global presence is growing, with collaborations from Australia, Brazil, Japan, Singapore, and the UAE. He appreciated the state’s showcase at the Davos leadership roundtable.
Meanwhile, Krishna Bodanapu, Executive Vice Chairman & MD, Cyient Ltd., said Telangana is in a golden era of growth, outpacing national averages. He credited technology, investment, and high-value industries for this progress. He called Telangana one of the best business environments in India.
Goutham Reddy Mereddy, Vice-Chairman of Re Sustainability Ltd. (formerly Ramky Enviro Engineers Ltd), was elected Chairman of CII Telangana for 2026–27, bringing 27 years of expertise in environmental services, waste management, and sustainability. In his address, Goutham reaffirmed CII’s commitment to industrial growth, innovation, and inclusive development, stressing that collaboration is key to building a sustainable environment for future generations.
Speakers agreed that India’s growth story must combine innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development across cities and villages to ensure progress benefits both people and the planet.
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