Tarun Khanna: Harvard Professor Driving Social Entrepreneurship
Tarun Khanna, the Jorge paulo Lemann Professor at harvard Business School, describes his upbringing as lacking a “romantic story.” The son of a philosopher mother and an engineer father,Khanna’s childhood was marked by frequent relocation across India,including Delhi,Mumbai,and Bengaluru.
Today, khanna’s work centers on entrepreneurship as a catalyst for social and economic progress. He serves as the founding Director of the Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute at Harvard University and Co-Chair of the Lancet Commission on a Citizen-Centred Health System for India. His research focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities of building businesses in emerging markets.
Khanna’s expertise extends beyond academia. He actively consults with companies seeking to enter or expand within South Asia, advising on strategy and implementation. He is a frequent commentator on business and economic issues in the region,appearing in publications like the Harvard Business Review and Livemint.
The Lancet Commission, which Khanna co-chairs, aims to reshape India’s healthcare system, advocating for a more citizen-centric approach. The commission’s work emphasizes the importance of accessibility, affordability, and quality in healthcare delivery. More data on the commission’s findings and recommendations can be found on The Lancet’s website.
Khanna’s work at the Lakshmi Mittal and family South Asia Institute supports research and educational initiatives focused on the economic and social development of South Asia. The institute fosters collaboration between Harvard faculty and researchers with counterparts in the region, addressing critical issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability. Details about the institute’s programs and research can be found on its official website.