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'Indians are making a global impact'

June 06, 2006 12:57 IST
'World Entrepreneur of the Year' Award jury chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal spoke to George Skaria in an exclusive interview. Excerpts: 

On the global recognition of the Award

There are awards and awards. But this is placed at the international level. In some ways, it is like a beauty pageant. The candidate is also subjected to a lot of rigour. They are interviewed formally and informally.

The award function per se has the Oscar format. Till the winners are announced, one does not know who has won it. It is a bit tough for everybody.

There is only one overall winner. In the past few years, many Asians have become world winners. Our job is to select the right candidate. 

On the trend of Indian entrepreneurs making the global leap

Indian entrepreneurs are going out into the world much more today. They are clearly making a global impact though it is early days.

On the key parameters for judging the winner

The financial parameters are important, but more than that, it is the entrepreneurial spirit that is important.

I would define entrepreneurial spirit as something that will include the business model, ability to impact people and society, induction of disruptive technologies and breakthrough innovation. Finally, high integrity and ethics are important.

Ultimately, E&Y sees this is as a forum where everybody is a winner. Their names are etched in the hall of fame.