General J. J. Singh Warns Of A ‘New Era, Where Global Order Will Be Shaken, As Will World Equations’

General J. J. Singh, a former Chief of Army Staff, who was a man in uniform during the Kargil war, has pointed out that in times of crisis, it is for leaders to reach out to those in distress and help them cope with the pressures of the times. Speaking at a BW Businessworld Dialogue on Leadership, the general emphasised that in such situations, all political agenda and ulterior motives have to be put aside, so that all citizens put up a united front before the challenges of the times.

The general emphasised that the situation the world was going through now would change and impact it on several fronts. The World Trade Organisation, the World Health Organisation, the International Monetary Fund and the United Nations would now have to evolve, he felt. Currencies may fluctuate, and there will be a “new era, where the global order will be shaken, as will world equations,” the General added.

He described the present situation as a “fight for a win” and said that India would have to move on and overcome it, as it has in the past. The general said optimistically that this phase too would pass, India being a nation with strong leaders at the helm.

He emphasised that the time “isn’t one for political signs”, but for a call for togetherness and camaraderie. General J. J. Singh felt that it was necessary to read and follow the Indian constitution, for it would enable our nation to be powerful and grow rapidly. Spiritual values and the therapeutical effect of music too would help ease the stress and tensions the world was going through, he felt.

This is a test of leadership, and despite being home-bound, it is crucial that “leaders motivate everyone,” he said. These were times, he said, when “results should speak louder than words”. The true secrets of leadership he said were holding one’s ground and motivating people.