The new agreement between the Ambani bothers aiming at flexibility, replacing ruthless rivalry in their business is good for all stakeholders. The industry and shareholders should rejoice, since, together the two brothers’ enterprises contribute around 6 per cent of GDP. The synergy generated should add much more. The employees in both groups must be feeling relieved and customers would hope for more quality at less price.
However, the agreement created for promoting mutual cooperation carries the seeds of confrontation by facilitating entry into each other’s activity. So, much will depend on the intentions and behaviour of the two parties, rather than the content of the agreement per se. The brothers should resolve to settle their differences internally. If necessary, they may create a family consolidation (not conciliation) board for the purpose. This would be the best way of enriching their illustrious father’s legacy.
Y G Chouksey, Pune
