In a one-on-one chat with Gautam Kumra from McKinsey and Company’s Leading Asia series Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani talked about how his team built India’s 5G network from scratch. He also shared his thoughts on the role of purpose in today’s AI-driven world and what it means to lead in a fast-changing Asia. Talking about Reliance’s big steps in telecom Mukesh Ambani shared how the company took on the challenge of creating its own 5G system. “In 2021 we launched our 5G network. We made everything ourselves from the core systems to the hardware and software” he said. India’s richest man said that Reliance is going to be a deep-tech and advanced manufacturing company. While Reliance did partner with companies like Ericsson and Nokia for some parts Ambani made it clear that about 80 per cent of the technology was made in India by his own team. He added that he wanted his team to stay grounded and focused. “I told them ‘You have to be better than the best out there.’ And now we are. That’s why we can now offer unique services because the technology is completely our own” he explained. Focus on innovation Mukesh Ambani’s focus on innovation doesn’t stop at telecom but it runs through all of Reliance’s businesses. He shared how having a strong purpose drives both technology and people especially in the fast-growing world of artificial intelligence (AI). Ambani pointed out that skilled people in AI like those working on OpenAI often move between companies. “It’s the same group of 500 experts” he said. “Today they might work for you and tomorrow for someone else. But if your company has a clear and meaningful purpose they will choose to work with you.” Reliances focus on AI He explained that Reliance’s goal with AI is to tackle tough social challenges and help build the nation’s wealth not just chase high-end computing power like GPUs. “Our purpose in AI is to solve big problems facing society. We don’t need to take huge risks on expensive tech. We’ll focus on smart practical work that makes an impact” Ambani said. Because of this clear vision Reliance has been able to attract top talent people who are inspired by the bigger mission. Ambani’s message is that strong leadership comes from having a clear purpose using technology wisely and motivating teams to aim high. “If your goal is clear and you know how to use tech you’ll find your way” he said. Ambani also shared a memory of his late father Dhirubhai Ambani who once told him “Reliance is not just a company it’s a process an institution. It should continue to grow and thrive even after we are gone. Your job is to make sure it lives on beyond both of us.” This conversation is part of McKinsey & Company’s Leading Asia series which highlights leadership ideas shaping the future of the continent.