The fact that I had no formal education in either technology or business
management, was a bit of a challenge, later I overcame my fear of failure. One more realisation after working in this male dominated industry is that women as decision-makers are not taken seriously. However, now things are changing for the better
Journey as an entrepreneur
My journey in IT has been exciting and interesting. After completing my family, I decided to start out on my own and by stroke of good fate Comnet Resources (CRPL) happened. Without having any experience in networking and technology I started working. But with passion and perseverance to create something of my own, I continued to learn and relearn.
I got a big break in career when a global IT company was looking for a logistics partner in Kolkata and with a little investment started the story of Comnet Resources. The last two decades have seen ups and downs but with trust shown by our partners, customers and the entire channel community it was a smooth journey. Today, CRPL has emerged as one of the leading distribution houses of computer networking products, offering an array of products, in association with global IT leaders.
The fact that I had no formal education in either technology or business management, was a bit of a challenge, later I overcame my fear of failure. One more realisation after working in this male dominated industry is that women as decision-makers are not taken seriously. However, now things are changing for the better.
Key achievements
Last few years have been good for Comnet and its family. We have received best regional distributors award continuously for last few years from our OEMs. Retaining all our partners along with adding new ones is our continuous effort.
Role model
All women inspire me! There is so much to learn from women as they are multi-talented, multi-faceted individuals. What amazes me is the way in which women take up multiple roles across their professional and personal lives and leave behind the latest technologies when it comes to multitasking. I believe that there is something to learn from every women, from Chanda Kochar, Naina Lal Kidwai, Arundhati Bhattacharya or Indra Nooyi, to first generation entrepreneurs like Vandana Luthra, Kiran Mazumdar or Suchi Mukerjee.
Work-life balance
I would say it’s a constant struggle as working women have to take many difficult decisions every day, both at the home front and at the workplace. Over the years I realised that the best way to get over this time crunch is to train people. I have managed to train my “clones”, both at my workplace and at home. The sole purpose was to ensure that I had extended hands in both places. Each member of Comnet team can back up for the other. This has helped me to have more time than ever to balance my work and my life.
Women in IT – a rare breed?
In my belief, the women representation in IT is not only low in India but all around the world. With more opportunities and exposure given, women are no longer behind. I feel so proud to watch women friends and colleagues to walk on stage and receive appreciation /awards for the wonderful work they are doing in the tech industry. I have also come across this as compliment from my male counterparts that companies led by women are more professional. Thus, the “woman factor” became irrelevant.
My message to budding professionals is – believe in yourself. It’s only this inner strength that will hold you in good stead in any industry you work in. Always remember, failure is never final, don’t be afraid to fail.
Life ahead
I am looking to make Comnet a regional player over the next few years. We are stabilising our Assam and Jharkhand operations. Once done we will possibly look at other potential states within the region.
