‘In the next decade, India will be a manufacturing capital’

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: When Kumar Mangalam Birla, 38, took charge as chairman Aditya Birla Group, few gave this “Johnny come lately” (a phrase used by him to refer to the perception about him then) an outside chance. Ten years on, the group is a $7.6 billion conglomerate and growing, with over 30% of the revenues coming from overseas. Birla has just been named the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2005, and will represent India at the E&Y World Entrepreneur of the Year Award next June. He spoke to Sourav Majumdar about his vision for India Inc, the challenges he faced and what lies ahead. Excerpts:

What do you think you’ve achieved in the last 10 years and what remains to be done?

We’ve achieved a lot on the consolidation front. We’ve grown the businesses we’ve chosen to be in. We’ve pruned the portfolio. It’s a much sharper portfolio now. On the people front ,we’ve made tremendous progress. Our brand as an employer has enhanced many times over. The challenges are those faced by any Indian company that’s globalising. How do you manage a multi-ethnic workforce.How do you convey the passion long-distance. How do ensure people in the mines in Australia feel your passion as much as the people in Mumbai or Renukoot, for instance. These are issues we’ll face as we globalise more.

What are the key changes you’re making in the way you operate as you globalise.

I think the process of institutionalising systems is something that is an ongoing thing. Also, talent development—grooming a second and third line. Because at the end of the day, we are a people’s organisation. These are the two major areas of focus.

Which businesses will drive the group in the days ahead?

All the businesses we’re in. I don’t think we’re looking at changing the business portfolio at all. I think the growth opportunities in our existing portfolio and on the back of the work that has gone in, are tremendous. I think the portfolio will look very similar to the one which we have now.

When you came in, doubts were expressed about your ability to lead the group successfully. What are the challenges you faced then, other than the perception issue?