Editorial
-Alaya Brown
The Spirit of Now
In a world defined by rapid change, the need for
grounded, visionary leadership has never been more vital. This special edition of Insights Success titled, LeaderoftheNow:2025’sMostInspiringMindsisnotjusta celebration of achievement, but a call to action for the next generationofthinkers,builders,andchangemakers.
At the heart of this issue is Ajinkya Sarvagod, a name that hascometosymbolizeinnovationwithintegrity.Hisjourney is one marked by quiet resilience, bold decisions, and an unwavering commitment to meaningful impact. Whether transforming industries through sustainable design or mentoringfutureleaderswithempathyandclarity, his work reminds us that true influence isn’t loud it’s consistent, purpose-driven,androotedinservice.
Throughconversations,casestudies,andinsightsfeaturedin this edition, we spotlight individuals who are reshaping the presentbyactingwithintentionineverysteptheytake.Each profileechoesasharedbelief:thatleadershipisnotatitle,but a responsibility one that calls for courage, humility, and vision.
Ajinkya stands out not just for his accomplishments,but for the way he elevates others alongside him. His story challengestraditionaldefinitionsofsuccessandexpandsthe horizon for what it means to lead in today’s interconnected world.
Wehopethiseditionleavesyouinspired,alittlemorecurious, and deeply aware that the most powerful force for progress lieswithineachofuswhenwechoosetolead,now.
HappyReading!
F E A T U R I N G
Ajinkya Sarvagod: Journey of Innovation, Excellence, and Empowerment in Construction
ARTICLES
Digital Innovation Driving India's Real Estate Market Transformation
22
The ROI of Tech-Enabled Construction
Art
Business
Business
Digital
Co-designer
Marketing
AJINKYA
SARVAGOD
JOURNEY
OF INNOVATION, EXCELLENCE, AND EMPOWERMENT IN CONSTRUCTION
“Commit to lifelong learning and stay curious about both technical advancements and industry trends. Develop a balanced skillset that includes engineering expertise, commercial understanding, and people skills.”
Ajinkya Sarvagod Vice President of Engineering Kohinoor Group Pune
Leadership becomes the real key to success inthedynamicfieldofconstruction,where accuracy must be balanced with pressure and vision must be turned into tangible reality Ajinkya Sarvagod, the Vice President of Engineering of KohinoorGroup Pune,isoneof the few people who is successful in achieving this delicate balance He is providing nearly two decades of diverse expertise in the residential, commercial,andinfrastructuresectors,andiswell knownforhiskeenexecutionskillsandpeople-first leadershipapproach.
His path has been characterized by constant development, self-discipline, and a desire for greatness. It began with his profound admiration forhiselderbrother,agoldmedalistandtoprailway official. Sarvagod combines innovative design thinking with systems-based execution methodologies, whether it is building massive infrastructure like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway or creating opulent homes like those of cricket legend Virat Kohli. Using creativity and instantaneousdecision-makingtoboostefficiency, he is a strong supporter of digital project managementandtheKaizentechnique.
"High-performing teams are built through empowerment, mentorship, and clarity of purpose. I ensure every department—from design and planning to procurement, quality, and execution—understands the broader vision and their role in it.”
Whatreallysetshimapartishisconvictionthatteamsshould be empowered. He leads by fostering a sense of purpose, coaching experts, and bringing all stakeholders together around a common goal rather than by giving orders. As a thought leader and guest lecturer, he has an equal stake in developing the next generation of talent and improving industrystandards.Hisdedicationtobusinessperformanceis beyondengineering,asseenbyhispositionasanIndependent Director with the Institute of Directors, which is demonstrating his profound knowledge of governance conceptsthathelearnedfromhisfather,arenownedcriminal lawyer
AjinkyaSarvagodisawonderfulexampleofleadershipthatis flexible, responsible, and prepared for the future. Building structuresisonlyoneaspectofhiswork;othergoalsinclude fosteringtrust,pushingtheenvelope,andleavingalegacyof operationalexcellenceandvisionaryimpactthattheindustry mayemulate.
TheFoundationofExcellence
Sarvagod's journey began in the academic corridors of GovernmentPolytechnic,Solapur,wherehewashonoredas the Best Outgoing Student during his diploma in civil engineering.Thisearlyrecognitionwasmerelyaglimpseof theexcellencethatwoulddefinehiscareer "Myinspirationto pursue a career in construction came from my elder brother, Mr. Raj Sarvagod, a civil engineer, gold medalist, and Class I officer in Central Railways. From a young age, I looked up to him as my mentor and role model. That admiration laid the foundation for my lifelong passion for civil engineering." he reflects.
The influence of his brother proved instrumental in shaping not just his career choice but his approach to leadership and excellence.Aftercompletinghisbachelor'sdegreefromWIT Solapur, where he served as President of the Civil Engineering Students Association of India, Sarvagod was recruited by K Raheja Corp through campus placement a milestonethatmarkedthebeginningofwhatwouldbecomea remarkablejourneyintheconstructionindustry.
Mastering Diversity: From Luxury Residences to InfrastructureGiants
What sets Sarvagod apart in an industry often characterized by specialization is his remarkable ability to excel across diverse project categories. His portfolio reads like a comprehensiveguidetomodernconstruction,encompassing everythingfrom luxury residentialdevelopmentsto massive infrastructureprojectsliketheDelhi-MumbaiExpressway
"With over 19 years of experience, I've delivered projects across residential, commercial, and infrastructure domains. My leadership style evolves with each project's unique requirements while maintaining a consistent focus on quality, innovation,andstakeholdersatisfaction."heexplains
Thisadaptabilityisperhapsbestexemplifiedinhisapproach todifferentprojecttypes.Luxuryresidentialprojects,suchas cricket icon Virat Kohli's Alibaug residence, demand what Sarvagodcalls"creativedesignthinking,personalization,and meticulous attention to detail " In contrast, large-scale infrastructure projects require "systems thinking, Kaizenbased execution, and strong coordination with government authoritiesandturnkeycontractors."
The ability to seamlessly transition between these vastly different requirements speaks to a deeper understanding of constructionasbothanartandascience."Iadaptbytailoring strategies across each project phase—from approvals and market research to cost planning, execution monitoring, and seamlesshandover—balancingprecisionwithvisionatevery step,"henotes.
TheInnovationImperative
Inanindustrytraditionallyresistanttochange,Sarvagodhas emergedasachampionofinnovation.Hisimplementationof Kaizen methodology and sophisticated Management Information Systems (MIS) is revolutionizing project delivery across his organizations This commitment to continuous learning and innovation is further evidenced by his current pursuit of IIT Delhi's Executive Programme in Entrepreneurship Development 2025, demonstrating his dedicationtostayingattheforefrontofindustryevolution.
"Kaizen and MIS systems have transformed our operational approach. Through Kaizen, we drive continuously improving inefficiencies, refining workflows, and encouraging innovationfromalllevelsoftheteam."heexplains.
Thisisn'tmerelyaboutadoptingnewtechnologies;it'sabout fosteringacultureofcontinuousimprovementthatpermeates everyaspectofprojectexecution.TheMISplatformsprovide real-time tracking of progress, cost, and resources, enabling what Sarvagod describes as "early identification of bottlenecksandfasterdecision-making."
The results speak for themselves.This data-driven approach ensures accountability, agility, and consistent delivery of high-performanceresults,particularlycrucialoncomplexor fast-track assignments that characterize much of today's constructionlandscape.
"My inspiration to pursue a career in construction came from my elder brother, Mr. Raj Sarvagod, a civil engineer, gold medalist, and Class I officer in Central Railways. From a young age, I looked up to him as my mentor and role model. That admiration laid the foundation for my lifelong passion for civil engineering."
TheArtofClientExcellence
Inaclient-centricindustry,Sarvagod'sapproachtomanaging top-tier clients has become a benchmark for excellence. His philosophycentersonwhathecalls"end-to-endownershipof quality, time, and cost." From concept to handover and extending into the facility management phase every interaction is governed by precise micro-level planning and Kaizen-leveltracking.
"Managing top clients starts with understanding their vision. We integrate value engineering, innovative design, and costeffective construction methodologies to deliver an enhanced finalproduct."heemphasizes.
This commitment to excellence has earned him recognition not just from industry peers but from clients who have
experienced firsthand the difference that attention to detail can make. For Sarvagod, "Having a delighted customer on board"isn'tjustagoal—it'spolicy
LeadershipThroughEmpowerment
Perhaps nowhere is Sarvagod's leadership philosophy more evidentthaninhisapproachtoteambuilding.Inanindustry where hierarchical structures often stifle innovation, he has created an environment where excellenceflourishes through empowermentandmentorship.
"High-performing teams are built through empowerment, mentorship, and clarity of purpose I ensure every department from design and planning to procurement, quality, and execution—understands the broader vision and theirroleinit."heexplains.
This leadership extends beyond his immediate professional circle.AsaguestlectureratprestigiousinstitutionslikeVJTI Mumbai,Sarvagodactivelymentors’futureindustryleaders in pragmatic execution and value optimization His commitment to nurturing talent reflects a broader understanding that sustainable success in construction requires not just individual excellence but industry-wide elevationofstandards.
TheThreePillarsofExcellence
Sarvagod's approach to ensuring timely, safe, and highquality delivery on large-scale projects rests on what he identifies as three core pillars: precise micro-level planning, Kaizen-based monitoring, and techno-commercial integration.
"Execution excellence on large-scale projects comes down to these three core pillars. I ensure that every activity from site mobilization to final finishing follows a rigorously tracked executionplan."henotes.
Thissystematicapproachalignsengineeringanddesignwith procurement, contracts, and on-site construction through efficientcoordinationsystems.Safetyandqualityaretreated asnon-negotiable,withrobustQA/QCframeworksandEHS protocolsimplementedateverystage.
AVisionfortheFuture
As the construction industry stands at the cusp of technological transformation, Sarvagod's vision extends beyond individual projects to encompass industry-wide evolution.HisrecentrecognitionattheEconomicTimesNow Business Conclave represents more than personal achievement, it acknowledges sustained impact through innovation,operationalexcellence,andthoughtleadership.
“With over 19 years of experience, I've delivered projects across residential, commercial, and infrastructure domains. My leadership style evolves with each project's unique requirements while maintaining a consistent focus on quality, innovation, and stakeholder satisfaction.”
Theseaccoladeshavefurtherstrengthenedhiscommitmentto drivingtransformation,sustainability,andfuture-readinessin thebuiltenvironment.Hisongoingpursuitofentrepreneurial excellencethroughIITDelhi'sprogramisreflectinghisbelief thattheindustry'sfutureleadersmustbeequippedwithboth technical expertise and business acumen to navigate an increasinglycomplexlandscape.
WisdomforTomorrow'sLeaders
For young professionals aspiring to leadership roles in construction, Sarvagod offers advice rooted in decades of experience: "Commit to lifelong learning and stay curious about both technical advancements and industry trends. Develop a balanced skillset that includes engineering expertise,commercialunderstanding,andpeopleskills."
Hisemphasisonmentorship,initiative,andresiliencereflects adeepunderstandingthatleadershipinconstructionrequires more than just technical competence. He believes that leadershipisnotdefinedbyatitle,butbybeingdependable, adaptable,andvision-drivenineverysituation.
TheLegacyContinues
AsAjinkyaSarvagodcontinuestoshapeIndia'sconstruction landscape, his story is serving as both inspiration and blueprint for excellence. In an industry where the stakes are highandthemarginforerrorisminimal,heisdemonstrating that success comes not from shortcuts but from an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and continuousimprovement.
His journey from a small-town engineering student to an industryleaderexemplifieswhat'spossiblewhenvisionmeets execution, when traditional values embrace modern innovation, and when individual excellence serves a larger purpose.Inbuildingstructuresthatwillstandforgenerations, Sarvagod is simultaneously constructing a legacy of excellence that will inspire future leaders long after the last brickislaid.
The construction industry's future is being built today, one project at a time, by leaders who understand that true excellenceisnotjustaboutwhatwebuild,buthowwebuildit andhestandsasatestamenttothatenduringtruth.
MARKET TRANSFORMATION
India's real estate industry, traditionally thought to be conservativeandold-school,isundergoingagargantuan shift. The prime mover of this transformation is technology,whichistransformingthewaypropertycomesto bebuilt,purchased,sold,andserviced.
The article-based and manually intensive business is now comingtoaccepttechnologyonitsentirevaluechain,which is ushering more transparency, efficiency, and access for everyoneconcernedrightfromthedevelopertothebuyer.
TheBirthofaTech-FirstCulture
Indiahaswitnessedadecade-longdigitalrevolutioninevery sector Real estate, which was a slow adopter initially, is catching up fast Developers, brokers, investors, and customers are now eagerly embracing technology to make well-informed decisions, simplify processes, and engage users.
One of the main spurs for such a wave has been growing digital literacy in India, along with growing internet penetration. Mobile-first solutions, virtual site visits, and onlinepaymentgatewayshavegonemainstreamwithenough push coming from evolving expectations of tech-native millennialsandGenZshoppers.
VirtualSiteVisitsand3DVisualization
Thosewerethegoodtimeswhencustomerswoulddrivemiles within cities to simply visit houses under construction. Real estate groups now organize virtual tours, 3D walkthroughs, and drone videos of houses with the help of digital technologies. These are not only time and effort savers but enable customers to shortlist a few houses while sitting in theirownhomes.
Thishasbeenaseriousgame-changer,particularlyduringand afterCOVID-19whensitevisitswererestricted.Buyerscan imagine layout, interior fit-out, and lighting at various times ofthedaybywayofmoreadvancedsimulationtechnology
SmartPropertyPortalsandAI-DrivenSearch
But then there is also the space of property discovery too wheredigitalinnovationhasmadeacolossaldifference.The internet-based property websites such as MagicBricks, 99acres, and Housing.com are now smart platforms making AI suggestions of property based on user interest, behavior, andlocationhistory
Theseportalsareincorporatingchatbots,predictivesystems, andsentimentanalysistoolstodirectusersmoreeffectively. From looking for houses according to price, amenities, or even safety ratings of an area, technology is providing customizedsolutionstosimplifyhomesearchingandmakeit quickertoachieve.
Blockchain:BuildingTrustandTransparency
ThemostpervasiveissueintherealestatemarketinIndiahas been, perhaps, that of no transparency and suspicion. Fake impersonation of property, title litigations, and lack of transparency during transactions have been the endemic issuesinthemarketplace.Digitaltechnologyisonceagainto therescueintheshapeofblockchaintechnology.
Blockchainsecureandindeliblymakespropertyrecords,thus simplifying due diligence as well as limiting fraud Blockchain makes governments, sellers, and buyers more trustworthy by establishing a distributed ledger of titles as well as transactions.Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra have pilot implementations of land record digitization using blockchainalready.
PropTechStartupsLeadingtheRevolution
India'sexpandingPropTech(propertytechnology)industryis alsodrivingthisshifttowardsdigital.Startupsareleveraging AI,IoT,AR/VR,andBigDatainpropertywithcreativeuses. Forexample,businessessuchasSquareYardsandNoBroker have revolutionized the broker model through machine learningtoconnectpropertyownersdirectlywithbuyersand renters.
Startups are also creating digital documentation platforms, online leasing agreements, and self-executing KYC, simplifyingrentalandownership.Innovationhasmadethese playersbringinnovationtotherealestatespacewithafocus onreal-worldissues.
SmartHomesandIoTIntegration
Homebuyerstodayarenolongercontentwithroofsandwalls butsmarthomeswithself-sustainingcapabilities.Internetof Things (IoT) devices coming into homes and offices is another force to be dealt with as much as digital innovation comesintermsofredefiningIndia'srealestatefuture.
From energy-efficient appliances to intelligent security and voice-activatedassistants,smarthomesarenotjustdelivering convenience but also material value to houses These constructors are creating a competitive advantage in the market.
Data-DrivenUrbanPlanningandSustainability
Technology is being used more for planning and sustainabilityinthecity
Satelliteimaging,GeographicInformationSystem(GIS),and predictive modeling are all being used by city builders and city planners to determine the best place to locate projects, demographicsanalysis,andenvironmentalanalysis.
Using data analytics, the developers can make betterinformed zoning decisions, determine what infrastructure needstobedeveloped,andcreatetransportconnectivity.This not only creates better ROI but also encourages green building practices, as it should in India's sustainability initiative.
ChallengesontheRoadtoDigitization
Asswiftasspeed,realestateadoptionoftechnologyisnota smoothride.Tier-2andtier-3citiesdonothaverobustdigital infrastructure. The real estate players are also Changeresistant,resistingentrenchedmethodsofworking.
Other issues that must remain a focus of attention with technology development include data protection, computer security, and compliance with the law Ensuring digital solutions are available and easy to use across and between incomeandagegroupsisessentialforthemtobeadopted.
TheRoadAhead
In the coming years, property and technology will just become closer The growing ascendance of Artificial Intelligence,blockchain,augmentedreality,anddatascience willcontinuetoreshapeourinteractionwithpropertyassets.
Government programs such as Digital India, RERA, and smart city initiatives are also paving the way for a more organized and technology-based real estate sector Digital innovationshallnotbealuxurybutanecessityasthebusiness matures.
Conclusion
Digitalization is ancient history—it's the future of Indian realty. With it making it more efficient, transparent, and customer-centric, it is reshaping the business bottom-up. Those who seek this change will succeed; others may find themselves falling behind in an increasingly changing market.
With technology and reality converging, the Indian reality spacewillbesmarter,swifter,andmoreaccessiblethanever.
The world today, which is more dynamic and fastmoving every day, witnesses its building sector deeply transforming. At the center of it all is techenabledconstruction,anewmethodthatcombinesemerging technologywithconventionalwaysofconstructing.From3D printinganddronestoartificialintelligence(AI)andBuilding Information Modeling (BIM), the face of construction is changing in thrilling ways with the promise of greater efficiency,greatersafety,andmostimportantly,greaterreturn oninvestment(ROI).
But what does ROI mean in terms of tech-enabled construction?It'snotsolelyaboutcostsavings,thoughthat'sa big part of it. ROI here applies to value over the long term, sustainability, workforce optimization, and customer satisfaction.
This article explores the financial and operational gains of bringing technology into construction in depth, explaining why this moment in time is ideal for the sector to accept this change.
RedesigningEfficiencywithTechnology-PoweredTools
The most convincing advantage of technology-based construction is the dazzling increase in operation efficiency. Traditional construction operations are often beset with delays, rework, and communication failures among
stakeholders. Through applications like BIM, project teams can model and simulate all project elements before actual workstarts.Thisallowsfordetectionofdesignconflictsatthe beginning stage, enhance the planning of resources, and delivermoreprecisetimeliness.
Infact,studieshaveshownthatBIMitselfcanreducerework byasmuchas40%,aprofit-devouringexpensethatsavages profit margins.When construction companies leverage BIM togetherwithothertechnologieslikeschedulingsoftwareand real-time communications software, they cut redundancies and accelerate project completion—feeding into the bottom lineimmediately
LaborProductivityandWorkforceOptimization
The building sector has always suffered from shortage of manpower and fall in productivity. Technology-enabled building brings solutions that can bridge the gap. Wearable technology, for instance, not only helps workers' safety by monitoring life signals and body motion but also facilitates sitemanagerstobettermanagehumanresources.
Automationandroboticshavealsobeenrevolutionary Bricklaying machines, concrete-pouring machines, or repetitive taskmachinesallowforhumanemployeestoaccomplishthe more skilled half of the task. This means fewer errors, less wear, and ultimately, improved quality. Add in the cost
advantageofreduceddowntime,feweraccidents,andhigher production,andtheROIisself-explanatory.
CostSavingsThroughPredictiveAnalytics
Imagine having the power to foresee construction delays beforetheyoccurorunderstandingwhichmaterialswillresult in future quality issues. Predictive analytics powered byAI brings this into focus. With analysis of historical project history,weatherconditions,andsupplierdata,companiescan make fact-based decision-making that wipes out costly mistakesanddelays.
Technology-empoweredconstructionusestheselearningsto keepprojectswithinbudgetandonschedule.Forexample,AI canmakeprocurementmorelogicalbyallowingoptimization ofwhentoordermaterials,somaterialwasteandstoragecost are minimized. In total throughout the lifetime of a project, these small improvements on an aggregate basis allow considerablybetterROI.
ImprovedCommunicationandCoordination
Construction is a multitude of stakeholders owners, architects, engineers, contractors, and suppliers. Miscommunicationamongthemtypicallyresultsinwasteful errorsandtime-guzzlingdelays.Withmobileappsandcloud platforms, construction-enabled technology allows for realtimecommunicationanddatasharingamongeachteam.
Allmembersseethelatestdrawings,changeorders,andsite data, preventing miscommunication and ensuring consistency.Suchteamcollaborationefficiencyleadstofaster decision-making,greateropenness,andmoresecureworking relationships—benefits to project outcomes and bottom-line performance.
SustainabilityasaLong-TermROIDriver
Green building is no longer trendy. Better still, techconstructionisalsomakingtheindustrystepupitsgamewhen it comes to green building. Technologies like smart sensors can monitor energy consumption in real time, while prefabrication processes reduce waste and enhance quality control.
Investorsandclientsarefindingmoreandmoretoappreciate about green building methods, which ultimately find their way into premium property value at full price and increased marketability In this way, that initial investment in green, technology-driven initiatives reaps rewards in lowered
operatingcosts,taxincentives,andimprovedbrandstature.
Real-LifeSuccessStories
Afew construction firms worldwide have already benefited from technology-construction Take an example of a European infrastructure firm that implemented drone surveying and BIM to a big highway construction project. Theyachieveda25%reductioninthedurationoftheproject andsavedmillionsofdollarsonlaborandmaterialcosts.
Similarly, a U S mid-size commercial contractor used wearable safety technology and artificial intelligence-based projectmanagementsoftwaretodecreasein-workplaceinjury by60%loweringinsurancecostsconsiderablyandthecostof lawsuits.Thisisnotanisolatedcasebutonecomponentofa growing trend that moves toward embracing the fact that technologyenhancesprofitabilityandminimizesrisk.
TheHumanElement:EmpoweringaModernWorkforce
Wheretechnology-basedconstructionwillundoubtedlylead people's imaginations to visions of job loss, however, the reality is the opposite. Technology is, instead, enabling the workforcetobecomemoreskilledandmoresophisticatedand playmoresignificantroles.Thefutureconstructionworkeris aslikelytoflyadroneormanipulateadigitalmodelasheisto belikelytolikelywieldahammer
Training programs and partnership between contractors and technologists facilitate employees to transition to this new era. Investment in people and platforms allows for seamless andinteractiveadoptionoftechnology—anotherexampleof howROIisstrengthenedthroughenhancedworkerhappiness andretention.
Conclusion:BuildingSmarter,BuildingBetter
Use oftechnologyinconstructionisnolongeratrend,buta revolution. Technology-based construction maximizes each phaseofaconstructionproject,fromdesigntodelivery.Such equipment, if used by organizations, not only saves money, butalsoquality,safety,andsustainability
Ultimately,theROIoftechnologicallyenabledbuildingsisn't in the bottom line It's in healthier customers, safer employees, smarter buildings, and a more resilient business model.Toforward-thinkingleaderswhowanttofuture-proof their companies, accepting this change isn't a choice, it's a strategicimperative.
Jessica Summers Leads a Global Conversation on Triumph
What happens when women stop surviving and start rising?
I am so excited that Jessica Summers has the answer —and it’s a movement.
From July 15 to 29, Jessica is hosting the Journey To Triumph Free Online Interview Series, featuring transformational conversations with women from around the world Each day, a new interview is released—spotlighting raw, powerful stories of what it really takes to rise with triumph, lead with purpose, and boldly step into a new norm.
“These are the change makers, They've walked through fire and came out as light—for their families, their communities, and for themselves." Jessica shares.
This isn’t about surface-level success. It’s about healing, truth-telling, and vision. The kind of stories that make you sit up a little taller. Breathe a little deeper. And finally say, “That’s me. I’m ready.”
Whether you’re quietly rebuilding or rising louder than ever, this series is your invitation to remember: you’re not alone—and your story isn’t over.
For Subscrip on: www.insightssuccessmagazine.com
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