New Delhi [India], February 23 (ANI): Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, delivered an insightful address at the SOUL Leadership Conclave on Saturday, focusing on the key elements of effective leadership, self-discipline, and personal growth. In his speech, Yadav emphasised the importance of continuous learning, personal conduct, and philosophical insights in shaping leaders who are committed to the greater good.Bhupender Yadav congratulated the SOUL for its mission to cultivate ultimate leadership. He shared his experience of working with his mentor, who remained dedicated to learning and self-improvement, even in the face of fame and recognition. Yadav highlighted that leadership is not just about achieving a high position but about consistently learning, evolving, and seeking excellence throughout one's life.Union Minister emphasized the importance of humility and the willingness to learn, regardless of one's age or stage in life. Citing the example of his mentor, Yadav pointed out that even at the peak of one's career, the pursuit of knowledge remains vital for personal growth and leadership.The Minister further stressed that leadership is deeply connected to one's personal conduct and discipline.Drawing inspiration from ancient Indian philosophies, including the Geeta and Patanjali's Yogasutra, Yadav explained that true discipline goes beyond external practices and focuses on the balance between the soul, body, and society.He emphasised that discipline is not just about rules, but about aligning one's inner values with their external actions.Yadav also touched upon the significance of adopting a disciplined life to enhance one's leadership qualities. For example, he explained how Patanjali's teachings encourage practising yoga as a means to achieve self-control and inner balance. Through discipline, he said, one could achieve a state of ultimate leadership.Yadav pointed out that in today's fast-paced world, it is easy to become distracted by external events and thoughts. However, he stressed that leaders must practice detachment and self-control to maintain focus and calm amidst the chaos of everyday life."The body is unrestrained, but practice, only through practice, is what leads to self-mastery," said Yadav.He highlighted that, whether in politics, administration, or any other field, one must cultivate the ability to stay grounded and maintain mental clarity. He shared an anecdote to illustrate how people often become distracted by fleeting thoughts and external pressures, but it is through sustained practice that one can truly lead with composure.Yadav further explored the philosophical teachings of Yogasutra, emphasizing that leadership is not only about external achievements but also about one's inner journey. He discussed the importance of creating a deep, internal relationship with oneself and the world around him, which is the essence of leadership.The Minister cited Patanjali's principles of practice (Abhyasa) and detachment (Vairagya), pointing out that both are critical to transforming one's life and achieving success.He explained that detachment does not mean abandoning the world, but rather being unaffected by distractions and external disturbances. Through this approach, leaders can build resilience and inner strength, which are necessary to lead with integrity and purpose.The Union Minister shared a powerful message on the importance of friendship, compassion, and contributing to society. He emphasized that true leadership is rooted in positive relationships, where leaders not only seek to elevate themselves but also support those around them."Friendship and compassion are essential qualities for a leader," he said. "One should always extend compassion to those who are in pain and be mindful of one's own expectations."Yadav urged the audience to adopt a contributory attitude rather than a competitive one. In his view, contributing positively to society leads to greater fulfilment and personal growth.He shared an insightful thought on the importance of living life with a sense of contribution rather than comparing oneself with others, as true success comes from adding value to the world.Bhupender Yadav concluded his address by reiterating that leadership is a continuous process of growth and transformation. He encouraged the audience, especially the youth, to embrace discipline, philosophical wisdom, and self-control as the foundation of their leadership journey.He emphasised that it is only through consistent practice, detachment from worldly distractions, and contributing to the greater good that one can achieve ultimate leadership.As he wrapped up his speech, the Minister left the audience with a thought-provoking quote: "To become truly great, one must keep practising, stay calm amidst chaos, and remain rooted in compassion and contribution."The session concluded with an engaging question-answer segment, where participants had the opportunity to interact with the Minister and further explore the concepts of leadership and personal growth. (ANI)