In my journey I visited many faces with our Poultry/Livestock Industry Legends. This time Mrs. Gaura Dubey, Managing Director, Phoenix Group take us to her father, Late Pt. Vishwanath Dubey’s Journey and share a fond memory paying tribute to his death anniversary.
- Was he originally from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh?
Pt. Vishwanath Dubey, born on 17th July, 1939 in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, was the son of a politically active father, which significantly influenced his early life. Due to his father’s political responsibilities, he had to pursue his schooling in various locations, later on, he excelled academically and eventually moved to Jabalpur, where he completed his Bachelor of Engineering with Honors in Mechanical Stream from Jabalpur Engineering College in 1961. Later he completed his Post Graduate Diploma in Management from England. He also completed his MBA from Michigan University, America.
- What was the best thing he liked in his Journey?
The best thing he cherished in his journey was the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. His passion for improving the nutritional health of India through the spread of poultry farming gave him immense satisfaction. He took pride in knowing that his efforts not only contributed to addressing the protein deficiency in the country but also created livelihoods for countless people involved in the poultry industry. The ability to combine his entrepreneurial spirit with a meaningful social impact was what he valued most in his journey, as it allowed him to leave a lasting legacy of both economic growth and better public health.
- What was his right motivation in the journey from the beginning?
His right motivation from the beginning of his journey was his deep sense of responsibility towards the well-being of society, influenced by both his father’s political involvement and his own desire to create a positive impact for his country. He was driven by a vision to address India’s pressing issue of malnutrition, particularly the lack of affordable and accessible protein in everyday diets. His exposure to different regions during his early schooling made him acutely aware of these nutritional gaps. This awareness, combined with his entrepreneurial mindset, inspired him to start the poultry business, not just as a means of personal success but as a solution to a larger social problem. His motivation was rooted in improving the quality of life for people, providing them with healthier food options, and generating sustainable livelihoods.
- Why did he choose the poultry Profession?
He chose the poultry profession because he recognized the severe lack of affordable protein sources in India’s diet, especially in rural areas. He saw poultry farming as an accessible and efficient way to address this nutritional gap, as chicken and eggs are rich in protein and can be produced on a large scale at a relatively low cost. His engineering background also gave him the practical skills and innovative thinking needed to scale the poultry business effectively. By choosing this profession, He was able to combine his desire to improve public health with his entrepreneurial spirit, creating a sustainable solution to combat malnutrition while also generating employment and economic growth across the country.
- As Compared to other big players in the industry, how is his organization different?
He never compared his organization to other big players in the industry, his organization is distinct for its strong focus on local impact and community well-being. His organization is dedicated to addressing regional nutritional needs and fostering sustainable practices. It emphasizes ethical treatment of animals and environmental responsibility, setting a standard for sustainability in the industry. Additionally, the organization’s commitment to personalized service and building close relationships with clients differentiates it from the more impersonal approach of larger competitors. This mission-driven focus on improving public health and supporting local communities reflects a deeper, purpose-driven approach to business.
- Please tell us about his family?
Pandit Vishwanath Dubey hailed from an illustrious family in Jabalpur. His father, Late Kunji Lal Dubey, served as the Finance Minister of Madhya Pradesh in 1967, and his elder brother, Late K. K. Dubey, was the Chief Justice of the High Court. His younger brother, Late Vinod Dubey, was a renowned surgeon. His wife, Mrs. Anjali Dubey, is the Chairperson of Little World School in Jabalpur. Following his passing, his daughter, Mrs. Gaura Dubey, took over the family business, continuing his legacy.
- What was his vision for the organization?
In April 2024, we are celebrating our 52year of Phoenix Poultry. His vision for his organization was rooted in addressing India’s nutritional challenges and improving public health through the poultry industry. His primary goal was to make high-quality, affordable protein accessible to all, particularly in rural and underserved areas. He believed that protein deficiency in the country is having dire consequences and entire generations are becoming weak due to malnutrition. He believed that poultry is the only industry in which cheap and good protein is produced. Our agricultural country can produce so many food components through industry that the poultry industry can grow. He envisioned an organization that not only provided nutritious food but also empowered local communities by creating employment opportunities and fostering sustainable practices. He aimed to build a business that stood for ethical and humane treatment of animals, environmental sustainability, and innovation. His vision was to scale the organization while maintaining its core values of community welfare, social responsibility, and long-term impact on improving the nutritional standards of the country. Through Phoenix Poultry, he aspired to create a lasting legacy of both business success and societal betterment.
- What was his message to next generation entered in the business?
His message to the next generation entering the business was centered on responsibility, integrity, and innovation. He believed that success in business should go hand in hand with a commitment to making a positive social impact. His key advice would likely have been to maintain a strong ethical foundation, ensuring that business practices prioritize sustainability, humane treatment of animals, and community welfare.
He also encouraged embracing innovation and adapting to changing industry trends, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and improvement. He urged the next generation to stay true to the organization’s core values while driving growth, ensuring that business success always aligns with a broader mission of improving public health and contributing to the greater good.
- What was his favorite eatery food?
His favorite meal was the simple yet comforting combination of home-cooked rice and dal with pickle, reflecting his love for traditional, wholesome food.
- What were his hobbies?
Pandit Vishwanath Dubey’s hobbies included reading, playing table tennis, and traveling. He loved engaging with books to broaden his knowledge, enjoyed the physical and competitive aspects of table tennis, and found joy in exploring new places and cultures through his travels. These hobbies reflected his intellectual curiosity, active lifestyle, and love for discovery.
- Any Remarks would you like to add?
Pandit Vishwanath Dubey’s life and journey reflect a deep sense of purpose, commitment to community, and an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. From addressing India’s nutritional needs through his innovative approach in the poultry industry to his passion for reading, sports, and travel, he was a man of many dimensions. His ability to balance business with ethical responsibility and a focus on personal growth made him a respected figure both in his family and in the broader community. His legacy continues through his family and the values he instilled in his business, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Today our company is a reputed company in the country. The quality of its products is accepted everywhere. His contribution in the development of poultry industry, proper operation of poultry industry and maintaining productivity was much important for the poultry industry and it is remembered in this form.
Note: All these questions were answered by his Daughter – Mrs. Gaura Dubey, Director, Phoenix Group.