New Delhi.  The Public Relations Society Delhi (PRSD), in collaboration with Comms Adda, successfully hosted the “Communication Conclave 2024” at the Constitution Club of India. The event, commemorating the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, featured two insightful panel discussions and a keynote address by Shri Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director, Corporate Communications, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).

At the Communication Conclave 2024, a panel discussion titled “Gandhian Communication: Catalyst for India’s Freedom Struggle” explored the unique communication style of Mahatma Gandhi and its relevance in today’s digital age. Moderated by Dr. Sarvesh Tiwari, Chairman of PRSD and Founder & MD of PRP Group, the session featured distinguished speakers, including Shri Srijan Pal Singh, CEO of Kalam Center; Shri Shishir Sinha, Associate Editor of The Hindu Business Line; Shri Rakesh Sharma, Founder Chairman of Rashtriya Jagran Chetana Manch; and Dr. Jawahar Karnawat, author and former General Manager of Bank of Baroda.

Shri Srijan Pal Singh highlighted the transformative potential of AI and generative technology in information dissemination. “Gandhi’s use of non-violent communication and his ability to mobilize people through simple yet powerful messages were revolutionary,” he said.

Shri Shishir Sinha explained Gandhiji’s mastery of the 7-38-55 rule, where communication relies heavily on non-verbal cues like tone and body language, critical elements in his persuasive leadership.

The panel also discussed Gandhiji’s non-verbal communication, with Shri Rakesh Sharma emphasizing how symbols like the iconic lathi embodied his message of strength and nonviolence without the need for hashtags or social media.  Dr. Jawahar Karnawat shared insights into Gandhiji’s use of print media, through publications like Indian Opinion and Young India, to spread his ideas of nonviolence and justice.  Karnawat emphasized Gandhiji’s belief that journalism should serve the public good. While the speakers acknowledged AI’s power in modern communication, they stressed that the pursuit of truth—central to Gandhiji’s philosophy—must continue to guide journalism and public communication, even in the age of advanced technology. Dr. Tiwari underscores that Gandhiji’s communication style, grounded in truth and nonviolence, remains relevant and powerful in today’s world.

At the Communication Conclave 2024, organized by the Public Relations Society of Delhi (PRSD) on Gandhi Jayanti, top women PR executives engaged in a compelling discussion on the power of purpose-driven communication in fostering social change and community engagement. Moderated by Dr. Samir Kapur, Director of Adfactors, the panel featured Ms. Tehseen Zaidi, Head of External Communications at Syngenta Pvt Ltd, who spoke about empowering rural women by creating interlinked support networks. She emphasized the transformative impact of CSR initiatives in helping women and farmers become financially independent, showcasing how purpose-driven communication can serve as a tool for empowerment. Ms. Akshita Agrawal, Communications and PR Lead at Magicbricks, shared her personal journey of breaking traditional mindsets and stereotypes, highlighting the importance of timing and opportunities in shaping a career. She underlined the significance of bringing a woman’s perspective to communication and brand management.

Ms. Akanksha Jain, Head of PR and Communications at BharatPe, emphasized the natural ability of women to build emotional connections, which is essential for impactful communication campaigns. She also discussed women’s challenges in corporate environments and the importance of navigating these obstacles to emerge as leaders. Meanwhile, Ms. Jyoti Rai, Senior Communications & PR Strategist for Rotary International South Asia, shared her work in health and education, particularly with marginalized women and children, and the role communication played in India’s successful polio eradication campaign. The panellists collectively agreed that strong communication led by women is crucial for building a strong nation and called for a national commitment to empowering women through purpose-driven PR initiatives.

PRSD Communication Conclave 2024: Need to elevate the status of PR profession to global standards, says Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director (CC), DMRC

At the PRSD Communication Conclave 2024, while addressing the conclave as Keynote speaker ,  Shri Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director (CC) of DMRC, stressed the need to elevate the status of the public relations (PR) profession in India to global standards, highlighting its crucial role in information dissemination.

He pointed out that PR professionals often work behind the scenes without receiving due recognition, unlike in countries like the U.S. where PR holds board-level influence. Dayal advocated for PR professionals to be honoured with prestigious awards like the Padma Awards, urging for a movement to recognize the profession’s contributions. He also reflected on Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy as a “master communicator,” noting how his impactful non-verbal communication demonstrated the power of actions over words.