Jagdish Khattar to crown first "pioneer of tomorrow'

Presented by Lufthansa and ET Now, with knowledge partners The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), the unique television series introduces a new entrepreneurial dimension to reality television where pioneers of today select pioneers of tomorrow.

In a lively interview with Shaili Chopra, Senior Editor ET Now, on an elegant set modelled on a Lufthansa First Class Lounge, Mr Khattar shared inspiring stories from his vast and varied experience as an ex-IAS officer, former managing director of Maruti Suzuki, and now as Chaiman and Managing Director of a pioneering new enterprise Carnation Auto India.

"Unless you put your foot in the water, you will never know how cold it is," said he, advising entrepreneurs with a novel idea to take the plunge with an open mind to "re-jig and rework" their business models in accordance with the dynamic market environment.

Mr Khattar selected Akshat Rathee of Earth-100 Biofuels as the "pioneer of tomorrow' for his unique business model to popularise bio fuel technology for energy efficient automobiles in India. The selection also kept in mind "the progress made so far and the possibility of acceptability."

Rathee was chosen among three entrepreneurs who presented their business plans on the episode. Also featured on this episode were Zarook Shah of Precious Microtech and Ravi P Doshi of Oswal Industries. The three were shortlisted for their pioneering spirit among hundreds of entries received for the show.

As the winner, Rathee was awarded a coveted mentorship by TiE. He was also presented a free return Business Class ticket to Europe by Harvinder Singh, Business and Corporate Sales Manager, on behalf of Lufthansa India.