Thirukkural verse (in Tamil script)
கடனென்ப நல்லவை எல்லாம் கடனறிந்து
சான்றாண்மை மேற்கொள் பவர்க்கு
Meaning: “For those who understand duty and uphold integrity, all good things are seen as their duty.”
Startup application: This Thirukkural emphasizes the importance of ethical responsibility and positive impact as core duties of a business, not optional extras. Here’s how startups can apply this principle:
- Integrate social responsibility: Develop a business model that incorporates positive social or environmental impact as a fundamental component.
- Define ethical guidelines: Establish clear company values and ethical standards to guide decision-making at all levels of the organization.
- Prioritize employee well-being: Implement fair labor practices and prioritize the health, safety, and development of your team members.
- Engage in transparent communication: Maintain honest and open communication with all stakeholders, including customers, investors, and the community.
- Contribute to the community: Actively seek out opportunities to give back and make a positive difference in the local community.
- Embrace sustainable practices: Adopt environmentally friendly and sustainable practices throughout your operations and supply chain.
- Make ethics a key consideration: Ensure that ethical considerations are a central part of every major business decision, not an afterthought.
