 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Aug 4: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) under the leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu inaugurated the 5-day residential Management Development Programme (MDP) (Batch-II) aimed at enhancing the leadership, management, and governance skills of Elected Representatives and Functionaries of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) on 4th Aug 2025. The program organized by Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Govt. of India at IIM Jammu Jagti Campus Vedanta MDP Classroom, Academic Block from 04th Aug to 08th Aug 2025, is hosting 24 participants from states and UTs ranging from Jammu and Kashmir, Leh and Ladakh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab.
The MDP is a pioneering initiative designed to empower PRI leaders-Presidents and Vice Presidents of District Panchayats, Block Panchayat Samitis, and other Panchayat officials-with the knowledge and tools necessary to drive community leadership effectively. The five-day intensive program covers critical topics such as leadership, management and ethics, resource mobilization and convergence, rural innovation, effective project management, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in governance.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Shri Sham Lal, Director, JKAS, PRI, Dept. of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Government of Jammu & Kashmir; Prof. Nitin Upadhyay, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu; Prof. Sanjeev Pathak, Chairperson, Executive Education and Consultancy, IIM Jammu; Prof. Sanjay Gupta, Program Director, IIM Jammu and Dr. Archana Sharma, Program Director, IIM Jammu.
Shri Sham Lal, Director, JKAS, PRI, Dept. of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, welcomed participants and expressed his delight in interacting with them. Reflecting on previous successful programs, he emphasized the evolving challenges in scheme implementation and the need for continuous learning and adaptation. He underscored the importance of cultivating leadership among BDOs and Sarpanches through cross-learning and collaboration. Highlighting the critical role of financial independence for Panchayats, he noted that the program would empower them to manage resources effectively, respond to local needs, and drive sustainable rural development.
Prof. Nitin Upadhyay, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu, welcomed participants and highlighted the Institute's journey from 47 to over 1200 students. He emphasized IIM Jammu's unique positioning, including its unique MBA in Healthcare and collaboration with three Institutes ranging from IIT Jammu, AIIMS Jammu of National Importance. Stressing the importance of excellence, peer learning, and community engagement, he underlined the Institute's growing role in nation-building and its commitment to learning beyond the classrooms.
Prof. Sanjeev Pathak, Chairperson, Executive Education & Consultancy (EE &C), IIM Jammu, outlined the broader vision of Executive Education and Consultancy, IIM Jammu, emphasizing its relevance beyond corporates to include government officials and personnel from various ministries. He highlighted that the program is designed for impactful learning through peer interaction, enriched by the campus environment and learning beyond classrooms, reinforcing IIM Jammu's commitment to inclusive and responsive governance. The inaugural session began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the collective pursuit of wisdom and empowerment. The welcome address was delivered by Prof. Sanjay Gupta, Program Director, IIM Jammu who provided an overview of the training program, emphasizing its relevance to decentralized governance and rural transformation. He outlined the focus on digital transformation, rural development through six dedicated sessions, financial management, and effective communication. He also mentioned a field visit to a model panchayat nearby and encouraged active participation for an interactive and enriching five-day learning experience.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Archana Sharma, Program Director, IIM Jammu who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and the organizing team for their support. The session concluded with the rendition of the National Anthem. The entire training program is being coordinated by Executive Education and Consultancy office, IIM Jammu.
Participants toured key landmarks of the IIM Jammu campus, including the Clock Tower, Nalanda Library, and smart classrooms. During the inaugural session, 24 participants from states and UTs ranging from Jammu and Kashmir, Leh and Ladakh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab introduced themselves, shared grassroots governance challenges, and outlined their expectations from the MDP. The training program will be featuring expert-led sessions, case studies, and interactive discussions, aims to foster collaborative governance and strengthen local administration. It is designed to equip participants with the skills and insights needed to enhance service delivery and improve rural livelihoods. This MDP represents a significant step in IIM Jammu's mission to develop transformational leaders and empower grassroots institutions in alignment with India's inclusive development goals. |
