Aakanksha Bhargava, CEO, PM Relocations
Entrepreneurship is a dream for many, but few possess the necessary skills and gumption to make it a reality. What inspired you to pursue your entrepreneurial dream?
I don’t believe that “gumption” or “skills” are the things that make an entrepreneurial dream a reality. These qualities are earned along the way through hard work and experience. What you truly need is a spark—an idea—and the courage to confront your fears. When I started my entrepreneurial journey, I was young and stepping into uncharted territory. While many thought I had joined PM Relocations because it was my father’s business, for me, it was about so much more than that. I didn’t have a clear path laid out before me; I had to carve my own. What inspired me was the need to transform an industry that was predominantly male and shift its perspective. I didn’t want to just follow in anyone’s footsteps—I wanted to create my legacy. There was no roadmap, no easy guide to success. But I had one driving force: The desire to break barriers and show that leadership is not defined by gender, but by vision, courage, and persistence. Yes, it’s difficult at times, but that’s what makes the journey so worthwhile. The inspiration to continue comes from knowing that with each step, I am not only changing the company but also paving the way for women who dare to lead.
The Indian startup ecosystem is thriving, but perfection is still a work in progress. What is one change you would suggest in the immediate future?
Absolutely! India has made incredible strides, becoming the 3rd largest startup ecosystem in the world. It’s truly inspiring to see the energy and innovation around us. However, one major challenge I see is the lack of a robust, people-centric organizational culture. Startups often focus so much on scaling and meeting growth metrics that they forget what drives their success—their people. This, I believe, is the missing link. At PM Relocations, the team—our PMRians—are the heart of everything we do. Some of them have been with us for over a decade, and their commitment and dedication come from feeling respected and valued. For me, a strong culture is one where employees aren’t just seen as resources but as partners in the journey. It’s about giving them opportunities to grow, listening to their ideas, and ensuring they feel a sense of belonging. People don’t just work for salaries—they work for respect and recognition. If the Indian startup ecosystem can embrace this ethos, we won’t just build successful businesses—we’ll create enduring legacies. Startups need to grow with their people, not just because of them. That’s how we’ll transform good businesses into great legacies.
