Dr P Krishnakumar

Academic Foundation and Professional Qualifications

Dr. Krishnakumar’s educational credentials reflect a commitment to both technical expertise and management excellence. He holds a degree in Electrical Engineering, earned in 1974, which formed the foundation of his technical career. Building upon this technical base, he pursued advanced degrees including an MBA and a Doctorate (PhD) in Engineering Management, equipping himself with the comprehensive skill set needed to navigate the complex landscapes of both industry and education.​

This combination of engineering knowledge and management expertise has enabled Dr. Krishnakumar to bridge the gap between technical education and practical industry applications – a philosophy that permeates his leadership approach at the Nehru Group of Institutions.​

Dual Career Path: Industry Pioneer and Educational Leader

What distinguishes Dr. Krishnakumar from many educational administrators is his parallel success in the corporate world, particularly in the electrical and cable manufacturing industries. This dual expertise has uniquely positioned him to understand both the demands of industry and the requirements of educational excellence.

Corporate Leadership and Entrepreneurship

Dr. Krishnakumar’s entrepreneurial journey began with the founding of IWIN Worldwide, an entity dedicated to value creation and revenue growth through Holistic Performance Enhancement. As Founder & President, he positioned IWIN Worldwide as a catalyst for organizational transformation, helping businesses navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape and achieve sustainable growth, with particular focus on Small & Medium Industry.​

His most significant corporate role has been as Director & CEO of Nangalwala Industries (Sun Cables), a position where he has played a pivotal role in steering the organization toward prominence in the specialty cables market. His visionary leadership and strategic acumen in focusing on result-oriented systems were instrumental in driving the company’s growth and success, cementing its position as a leader in the specialty cables industry.​

Dr. Krishnakumar’s philosophy emphasizes that people-skilling and mentoring are key processes for bringing out the best in each individual. His ability to foresee industry trends and capitalize on emerging opportunities set him apart from his peers, combining technical expertise with keen business sense to navigate the complex landscape of the electrical engineering and cable industries.​

Industry Association Leadership

Dr. Krishnakumar’s contributions to industry associations have been instrumental in driving innovation and setting industry standards. His involvement with the Indian Electrical & Electronics Manufacturers Association (IEEMA), the premier organization in the Electrical & Electronics Industry, and the Railway Cables Development Association has significantly impacted industry practices.​

His tenure as President of IEEMA was marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, with Dr. Krishnakumar championing initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and driving industry growth with the support of veterans in the industry. These contributions have earned him recognition as a thought leader in the electrical and cable manufacturing sectors.​

Educational Leadership at Nehru Group of Institutions

As CEO & Secretary of the Nehru Group of Institutions, Dr. Krishnakumar shares leadership responsibilities with his brother, Adv. Dr. P. Krishnadas (Chairman & Managing Trustee), and their sister, Dr. P. Thulasi, a renowned gynecologist who serves as a Trustee. Together, they have weathered the fiercest storms and challenges to build upon their father P. K. Das’s vision and emerge as contenders in the changing world of education.​

Educational Philosophy and Vision

Dr. Krishnakumar’s message to students and faculty reflects his comprehensive vision for education. He emphasizes that the Nehru Group enables students and professionals to seek quality education and successful careers, with all efforts aimed at showing them the right path and giving that final push for students and faculty to achieve their true destiny.​

Recognizing that everything in today’s world is interconnected, Dr. Krishnakumar has focused on equipping students with vital skill sets to compete effectively in the global market. The institutions work at improving awareness on courses, practicals, internship programs, communication, and overall development of students, providing ample support to deliver greater opportunities for better employment in institutions and organizations.​

Dr. Krishnakumar articulates his belief that “each Institution of higher learning has the responsibility to steer quality education in a time bound way to establish quality and sustain its excellence”. He recognizes that an ever-changing world demands grooming extreme competence in all areas, from curriculum to co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, creating a cohesive environment for future leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who possess knowledge, skills, and attitudes in functional disciplines.​

Bridging Industry and Academia

One of Dr. Krishnakumar’s most significant contributions has been his focus on enveloping the gap between industry and institution. His professionally competent team of teaching and non-teaching staff strives to focus on each child’s holistic development. The institutions take pride in imbibing latest technologies like e-content development, digital learning, and usage of web-based tools in the teaching-learning process.​

This industry-academia integration reflects Dr. Krishnakumar’s unique position as someone who has excelled in both spheres. His corporate experience informs educational strategies, ensuring that students graduate with skills that are directly relevant to industry needs.​

Student-Centric Approach

Dr. Krishnakumar is happy that the colleges’ progression joins hands with inculcating life skills and imparting value-based education to create professionalism among students to be responsible citizens. He expects all students to focus on their cherished goals and strive hard to accomplish them with sincere efforts, with the main focus being transcending mediocrity in society and transforming dreams into reality.​

The evolution of the colleges, he emphasizes, counts with the success of each individual student, and he appreciates his teachers’ work culture that appreciates students’ efforts and motivates them to excel in their ways.​

Role as Pro-Chancellor of P K Das Deemed to be University

As Pro-Chancellor of P K Das Deemed to be University in Tamil Nadu, Dr. Krishnakumar shares the leadership of this prestigious institution with his brother as Chancellor. This represents the fulfillment of their father’s dream of creating a world-class university. The university status symbolizes the culmination of decades of dedication to educational excellence and marks a new chapter in the Nehru Group’s journey toward becoming a globally recognized center of academic distinction.​

Managing Trustee Responsibilities

In his capacity as Managing Trustee, Dr. Krishnakumar has been instrumental in offering scholarships to students who are economically disadvantaged yet show academic promise. His dedication to social welfare extends to various philanthropic initiatives aimed at empowering communities and fostering individual growth. This commitment to social responsibility aligns perfectly with the founding vision of P. K. Das, who established the institutions primarily to serve underprivileged students.​

Recognition and Awards

Dr. Krishnakumar’s visionary leadership and contributions to both business and society have been recognized through numerous accolades. He received ‘The Achievement Award – 2024’ conferred by Kaumudhi TV & Kerala Kaumudhi Print Media, as well as the ‘Man of Achievement Award 2000’ from an International Publishing House. These awards recognize not just his business acumen but also his unwavering commitment to social responsibility and educational excellence.​

The Industry Outlook magazine featured Dr. Krishnakumar in their Leaders and Achievers section, highlighting his journey as someone “Exploring New Paths With A Resonant Legacy In Business & Social Advocacy”. This recognition acknowledges his dual impact in corporate leadership and educational transformation.​

Transformative Leadership Philosophy

Dr. Krishnakumar’s journey is marked by innovation, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Equipped with his degree in Electrical Engineering topped with a Doctorate in Engineering Management, his initial years were defined by a quest for knowledge and an urge to challenge conventional limits. This unwavering commitment to excellence ultimately shaped his distinguished career across both industry and education.​

His ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical benefits has aided him in carving out a name for himself while providing the Nehru Group with a triumphant reputation in the field of education. He is a keen learner who continuously strives to assimilate and find value from the lessons that life teaches.​

Building the Global Village

Dr. Krishnakumar is committed to the vision of turning the Nehru Group into a renowned, top-tier quality “global village”. His efforts focus on reaching students with economically backward backgrounds and turning them into the most sought-after, world-class entrepreneurs of tomorrow. With the inception of new, advanced technology on par with world-class standards, the institutions work hard toward this transformation.​

This global perspective is enriched by strategic partnerships with major international universities, enhancing the group’s global presence and educational impact. The institutions have successfully placed approximately 100,000 students in leading corporations both in India and abroad, demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach.​

Holistic Performance Enhancement

Central to Dr. Krishnakumar’s philosophy is the concept of Holistic Performance Enhancement, which he pioneered through IWIN Worldwide. This approach recognizes that true excellence requires development across multiple dimensions – technical skills, soft skills, leadership capabilities, ethical values, and entrepreneurial mindset. This holistic philosophy permeates the educational programs at NGI, ensuring students receive comprehensive preparation for their professional lives.​

Focus on Result-Oriented Systems

Dr. Krishnakumar’s corporate experience has instilled in him a strong focus on result-oriented systems. In the educational context, this translates to measurable outcomes – not just in terms of grades and placements, but in developing competent professionals who can contribute meaningfully to society. His emphasis on making students think and implement out-of-the-box solutions reflects his belief that education should cultivate innovation and creative problem-solving abilities.​

Collaborative Leadership Style

Dr. Krishnakumar believes strongly in the power of teamwork and collaboration. His success in steering Nangalwala Industries came with the full support of senior colleagues and the entire team. He emphasizes that people-skilling and mentoring are key processes for bringing out the best in each individual. This collaborative approach extends to the educational institutions, where faculty, students, and industry partners work together toward common goals.​

Integration of Technology in Education

Under Dr. Krishnakumar’s leadership, the Nehru Group has embraced cutting-edge educational technology while maintaining the essential human element. The institutions pride themselves on imbibing latest technologies like e-content development, digital learning, and usage of web-based tools in the teaching-learning process. However, this technological integration is balanced with strong emphasis on personal mentoring and individual attention to students.​

Value-Based Education and Character Building

Dr. Krishnakumar is committed to value-based education that creates not just skilled professionals but responsible citizens. Important life lessons and values of ethics were picked up from his father, the late P. K. Das, a great scholar, visionary, and philanthropist. These values continue to inform his educational philosophy, ensuring that character building and ethical development remain central to the educational mission of NGI.​​

Strategic Vision for Institutional Growth

Dr. Krishnakumar’s strategic vision has been instrumental in the expansion of the Nehru Group from its humble beginnings in 1968 to its current status as a major educational conglomerate with 24-25 institutions across Tamil Nadu and Kerala. His experience in business strategy and organizational transformation through IWIN Worldwide has been invaluable in navigating the complexities of institutional growth while maintaining quality standards.​

Family Legacy and Collaborative Leadership

The partnership between Dr. Krishnakumar and his siblings in leading the Nehru Group represents a powerful example of collaborative family leadership. Together with his brother Adv. Dr. P. Krishnadas and sister Dr. P. Thulasi, he has ensured the continuity of their father’s vision while adapting to contemporary challenges and opportunities. This collaborative family leadership model has provided stability and coherence to the institution during periods of rapid growth and change.​

Commitment to Accessible Education

Following in his father’s footsteps, Dr. Krishnakumar remains deeply committed to making quality education accessible to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The scholarships, financial support, and various welfare programs initiated under his leadership ensure that financial constraints do not prevent talented students from pursuing their educational aspirations. This commitment to equity and access has been a defining characteristic of the Nehru Group throughout its history.​

Professional Network and Industry Connections

Dr. Krishnakumar’s extensive professional network, built through his roles in IEEMA, Railway Cables Development Association, and other industry bodies, provides valuable connections for the educational institutions. These relationships facilitate internships, industry visits, guest lectures, and placement opportunities for students, ensuring that the education provided remains relevant and industry-aligned.​

Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Despite his extensive experience and achievements, Dr. Krishnakumar remains a keen learner who continuously strives to assimilate and find value from life’s lessons. This commitment to lifelong learning serves as an inspiration to students and faculty alike, modeling the intellectual curiosity and adaptability required for success in the rapidly changing twenty-first century.​​

Impact and Legacy

Dr. Krishnakumar’s impact extends far beyond the immediate sphere of the Nehru Group. Through his industry leadership, he has influenced standards and practices in the electrical and cable manufacturing sectors. Through his educational leadership, he has shaped the lives of thousands of students who have gone on to successful careers worldwide. His unique ability to bridge industry and academia has created a model of education that is both theoretically sound and practically relevant.​

As Pro-Chancellor of P K Das Deemed to be University, CEO & Secretary of Nehru Group of Institutions, and Director & CEO of Nangalwala Industries, Dr. P. Krishnakumar exemplifies the modern leader who can operate effectively across multiple domains. His story demonstrates that true leadership requires not just expertise in a single field but the ability to integrate insights from diverse experiences to create comprehensive solutions to complex challenges. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility continues to inspire the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers who pass through the institutions he leads.