“Prosperity is founded on the welfare of workers and society,” says Harish Bhatt

The KLS’ Institute of Management Education and Research (KLS IMER), Belagavi, celebrated its 36th Foundation Day at the college auditorium on September 16, 2026, with a programme highlighting entrepreneurship, social responsibility and the institution’s contribution to management education.

The programme commenced with an invocation song by student of KLS IMER. Shri Uday Kalkundrikar, Chairman, Governing Council, KLS IMER, delivered the welcome address.

A floral tribute was paid to the late Shri Raosaheb B. M. Gogte. As part of the Foundation Day programme, a video profile of Shri J. D. Desai, Managing Director, J. D. Group, Belagavi, was presented by the students.

Shri J. D. Desai was honoured with the title “Entrepreneur of the Year 2026”. The citation highlighting the honour was read by Dr. Sumanth Desai, Assistant Professor and Coordinator, Foundation Day. Accepting the honour, Shri J. D. Desai shared his inspiring entrepreneurial journey with the gathering. Recalling the early challenges and struggles involved in establishing and developing his business, He traced the growth of J. D. Group from its initial stages to its present position as a growing business organization with a turnover of around ₹100 crores.

The chief guest, Shri Harish Bhatt, Former Brand Custodian of the Tata Group and Best-Selling Author, emphasized that business should go beyond profit and contribute to society. He stated that a meaningful business purpose can contribute to nation-building and create history. He highlighted the importance of workers’ welfare in building industrial prosperity.

Referring to Jamsetji Tata, he spoke about his pioneering initiatives for workers. These included accident insurance, pension schemes and the Provident Fund. He noted Jamsetji Tata’s contribution towards establishing India’s first steel plant. Harish Bhatt also recalled the historic meeting between Swami Vivekananda and Jamsetji Tata.

The meeting took place during Swami Vivekananda’s journey to Chicago. Their discussion focused on establishing a scientific research institution in India. He noted that this vision eventually contributed to the establishment of IISc, Bengaluru.

The programme was presided over by Shri Ram Bhandare, Vice-President, The Karnataka Law Society, Belagavi, who delivered the presidential remarks. Dr. Sushilkumar Pare, Professor, KLS IMER, proposed the vote of thanks.

The occasion was graced by the presence of Shri A. K. Tagare, Chairman, Board of Management, The Karnataka Law Society (KLS); Shri S. V. Ganachari, Secretary, KLS; and Dr. Arif Shaikh, Director, KLS IMER. Their presence added significance to the Foundation Day celebration.