Jamshedpur: XLRI – Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur, concluded the Third International Ethics Conference 2026, a three-day global event focused on ethical leadership, sustainability and responsible business practices in emerging economies.
Global forum on ethics and leadership
Organised by the XLRI JRD Tata Foundation for Business Ethics from January 9 to 11, the conference was held on the theme “Reimagining Business and Leadership: Ethics, Sustainability, and the Future of Responsible Growth.” Academicians, industry leaders, researchers, and students from India and overseas participated in the deliberations.
Leadership rooted in values
Inaugurating the conference, XLRI Director Dr Fr George Sebastian, S.J., emphasised that authentic leadership must be guided by compassion, integrity and ethical judgement rather than ruthless competition. Delegates were welcomed by Dr Fr Donald D’Silva, S.J., Dean (Administration & Finance), while Dr Sanjay Patro, Dean of Academics, and Dr Fr Joseph Mathew, S.J., coordinated the academic sessions.
Human-centred organisations in focus
A pre-conference panel discussion on “Reimagining Leadership for Human-Centred and Ethical Organisations” explored how inclusion, sustainability and ethical decision-making should shape future leadership models. The session was moderated by Ms Soni Sinha, Chief Ethics Counsellor at Tata Steel, and featured noted experts from academia and industry.
Key themes and expert insights
The conference revolved around three core themes—ethical leadership, sustainable innovation in resource-constrained environments, and inclusive development. Keynote speakers and panellists discussed frugal innovation, values-based leadership, ethical use of technology, workplace mental health, and women’s leadership.
Research, innovation and Indian context
More than 100 research papers were submitted, with 22 selected for presentation across thematic tracks. The discussions were grounded in Indian realities, addressing tribal economies, community-based development, and gender equity, while also offering global perspectives.
Cultural engagement and closing reflections
A special fireside storytelling session blending art, music, and reflective dialogue, along with an exhibition showcasing products made by tribal women’s self-help groups, highlighted ethical entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods.
In his closing remarks, Dr Fr Joseph Mathew, S.J., reaffirmed XLRI’s commitment to nurturing ethical, socially conscious leaders. The conference underlined the central role of ethics and sustainability in shaping future-ready leadership and responsible business growth.
