HR Thro the Ages in the eyes of the father of Indian HRD – Dr TV Rao

The Global HR Community commemorated #InternationalHRDay on May 18th, 2024 at Bangalore, by organizing the GHRC Members Monthly meet. The event was graced by the father of Indian HRD, Dr TV Rao as the guest of honor. Dr. Rao delivered an insightful address titled “HR through the Ages: The Evolution of HR” and inaugurated the GHRC Volunteers Committee. This new committee is aimed at fostering activities, engagement, and collaboration among members, embodying the spirit of “of the people, by the people & for the people,” aligned with GHRC’s guiding principles of Connect, Learn & Grow.

Dr. T.V. Rao’s Address Highlights

Dr. T.V. Rao provided a fascinating overview of the HR function’s evolution from the Personnel Department to the Human Resources Development (HRD) Department. His speech was both enlightening and inspirational, tracing HR’s journey from the 1970s to the present day. Here are some key points from his address:

• HR’s Core Focus: HR is fundamentally about people and its stakeholders, which include not only employees but also the broader community, environment, and families. The nature of work is changing, emphasizing the need to take care of employees’ mental and physical health, especially with the rise of remote work.
• Strategic Business Partner: HR has evolved to become a strategic business partner, playing a crucial role in shaping organizational culture and promoting systems of value. Every organization should start with a purpose, with profit serving merely as an indicator.
• HR as a way of Life: Dr. Rao emphasized that HR has transcended being merely a department; it’s a core philosophy guiding how organizations function. He pointed out the post-pandemic expansion of HR’s role, encompassing a broader range of stakeholders.
• Continuous Learning and Growth: A good HR professional is always a constant learner. The future of HR is seen as spiritual, focusing on being a good human being, evoking the spirit in everyone, and fostering empathy and compassion.
• Best Practices: Self-discovery, encouraging everyone to adopt HR principles. Periodic feedback from various sources to improve performance. Taking charge of one’s own performance.

Inspirational Quotes

Dr. T.V. Rao’s quote, “HR should go from sapling to a forest to globe,” encapsulated his vision for the expansive and impactful role of HR.

Under the Banyan Tree: Fostering Growth in the Global HR Community

The event highlighted the GHRC’s mission, likening it to a majestic banyan tree that provides a space for learning, growth, and collaboration. Key leaders like Dr. TV Rao , Nathan SV Sreekanth K Arimanithaya and Ramesh Ranjan were acknowledged for their foundational contributions to the HR Community.

Current Focus Areas in HR

• Health & Wellness: Emphasizing positive psychology, mental and physical health, and family care, while ensuring work-life balance.
• Great Place to Work: Creating environments where employees feel valued and supported.
• Strategic Business Partner: Collaborating with business units to drive strategic goals.
• AI and Collective Intelligence: Leveraging AI to enhance HR practices and create a boundary-less HR environment.

Conclusion

The event was a nostalgic and enlightening experience for all attendees, offering a look back at how HR has evolved over the past five decades. Dr. T.V. Rao’s emphasis on being good human beings and fostering a purpose-driven approach resonated deeply with the audience. The GHRC aims to continue growing as a Global HR Community with the support and blessings of leaders like Dr. T.V. Rao, focusing on Connecting, Learning, and Growing together.