Research Quest

My primary research interest lies in the domains of Strategy, Leadership, and Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education Institutions. In the context of a rapidly evolving global landscape, my research seeks to understand how institutions can design and implement strategic frameworks that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enabling them to act as transformative agents of change. The increasing emphasis on sustainability in higher education demands robust models of governance, leadership, and community engagement that translate global goals into contextually relevant local actions—a process I study through the localization of SDGs in higher education.

A parallel stream of my research focuses on Business Model Innovation and Leadership, examining how purpose-driven organizations evolve their strategic architectures to balance growth, mission, and sustainability. My work employs qualitative research methodologies, particularly the case study approach, to derive deep insights into institutional transformation and strategic decision-making in emerging market contexts.

An emerging area of my scholarship integrates Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) with contemporary management thought. My forthcoming textbook, “Managing Self, Enterprise and Society – A Neetishastra Perspective,” seeks to offer a pedagogical model that blends ethical reasoning, strategic action, and societal purpose within management education.

Academic Bio

Dr. Bhavani M. R. has been with Chanakya University since its inception in 2022 and currently serves as Registrar (Evaluation) and Professor in the School of Management Sciences. A visionary academic leader and institution builder, she brings decades of experience in higher education, strategic planning, academic governance, and student development. She holds a Postgraduate Certification in Strategy from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Nagpur.

Her research interests span Strategy, Leadership, and Business Model Innovation, with a growing focus on the localization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in higher education. She is deeply committed to advancing contextual research through qualitative methods and case study writing, bridging theory with practice. Her current scholarly work also integrates Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) into management education, with her forthcoming textbook “Managing Self, Enterprise and Society – A Neetishastra Perspective” embodying this synthesis of ethics, strategy, and leadership.

Dr. Bhavani has authored two books and over fifteen academic publications besides holding two patents and is widely recognized for her people-centred leadership and value-based educational philosophy. A sought-after speaker and panellist, she continues to reimagine education through the lens of values, vision, and innovation.

Educational Qualification