Editor's Note - This issue of MedicinMan is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Tarun Gupta, TG as he was fondly called. Executive Editor, Salil Kallianpur, dear friend Subrato Banerjee and long-time MedicinMan patron Vivek Hattangadi, pen their tributes to TG.

Are Managers Really Necessary?

In the organisational context, LEADERSHIP appears more glamorous than the word MANAGEMENT. When it comes to a team whether small or large, we need to realise that the first requirement is to be an effective manager and then a leader. Why so? First and foremost, Managers are responsible for making sure that things are done properly. And while leaders may bring us vision, inspiration and challenge, these things count for nothing without the efficient implementation brought about by good management. To be a great manager, you must have an extensive set of skills, both hard and soft – from planning and delegation to communication and motivation. The skill set is so wide, and hence, for your long-term success, it's wise to analyse your skills in all areas of management – and then to challenge yourself to improve in all of these areas. So, a fundamental question that is unasked, but lingers in the mind often is, Are managers really necessary?