IIM Jammu concludes holistic orientation programme 2025 with the Inauguration of State-of-the-Art Sports Complex ‘Tejas’

JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu concluded its five-day Holistic Orientation Programme 2025 with a grand Valedictory Ceremony at its scenic Jagti campus. The event was graced by the presence of Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha as the Chief Guest, Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu and Shri Sudhir Langer, CEO and MD, RPSG FMCG, as the keynote speaker.

The Orientation Programme marked the formal conclusion induction of the 6th Batch of Ph.D., 4th Batch of Ph.D. (Working Professionals), 10th Batch of MBA, 4th Batch of MBA in Healthcare, and the 5th Batch of Executive MBA (EMBA) into IIM Jammu’s dynamic academic ecosystem.

The Valedictory Ceremony commenced on an inspiring note with the inauguration of IIM Jammu’s state-of-the-art Tejas Sports Complex by Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha in presence of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, symbolizing the Institute’s steadfast commitment to holistic development that nurtures both the mind and body, and reinforces the importance of physical well-being alongside academic excellence.

Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, visited the newly inaugurated Tejas Sports Complex at IIM Jammu, accompanied by Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu. Demonstrating his encouragement for holistic development and student engagement, he enthusiastically toured the facility and even played a game of badminton with the students, creating an inspiring and memorable moment for the IIM Jammu community.

Present during the occasion were Shri Sudhir Langer, CEO and MD, RPSG FMCG; Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Faculty and Research, IIM Jammu; Prof. Nitin Upadhyay, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu; Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Anandam and Media and Publication Division, IIM Jammu, Cmdr. Kesavan Baskkaran, (R), CAO, IIM Jammu.

Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, graced IIM Jammu as Chief Guest at the Valedictory Ceremony of the Orientation Programme 2025 and inaugurated the Tejas Sports Complex, symbolizing the Institute’s commitment to holistic development. Addressing 474 students from across India, he congratulated them on joining an institution rooted in academic excellence, culture, and industry relevance.Welcoming them to Jammu—the only city in India with four National Institutions IIT, IIM, AIIMS, and Central University of Jammu—he praised IIM Jammu’s role in transforming the region into an educational hub under the leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay. He emphasized that orientation marks the beginning of a deeper journey of self-awareness, imagination, and introspection. Drawing on ancient Indian philosophy, he underscored that true education blends Vidya (knowledge) and Vidhi (method) and urged students to cultivate the five Cs—critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, and compassion. Encouraging them to overcome challenges and stay focused, he highlighted their role in driving entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development. In a powerful message, he reminded students: “Life gives you opportunities every day—your only job is to wake up and seize them,” concluding with a heartfelt wish for their journey and growth.

Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, in his keynote address, described IIM Jammu as a rising symbol of excellence and national aspiration. He praised the Institute’s role in nurturing future leaders and acting as a catalyst for education, innovation, and regional transformation. Framing his address around the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 as articulated by Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, he emphasized that institutions like IIM Jammu are instrumental in building a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready India.

Highlighting themes like climate change, digital transformation, and socio-economic disparity, he noted that education must be transformational—instilling empathy, ethics, and purpose. Encouraging students to become “persons of value, not just success,” he also acknowledged Jammu & Kashmir’s growing startup ecosystem and IIM Jammu’s expanding role in socio-economic progress. He concluded with a powerful message: “Stay curious. Be resilient. Be ethical. Be inclusive. The world needs more compassion in boardrooms. At IIM Jammu, the legacy begins.”

Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, expressed gratitude to Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha for his continued support and for inaugurating the Tejas Sports Complex, marking a major step in the Institute’s commitment to holistic student development.He described the five-day Orientation Programme as an exciting and transformative beginning, reaffirming IIM Jammu’s vision to become one of the top business schools in the country. Highlighting recent achievements, he proudly noted that IIM Jammu is the only second- and third-generation IIM to receive both EFMD Programme Accreditation for its MBA and BGA Institutional Accreditation in the same year.Prof. Sahay outlined key initiatives including the Centre for Diversity & Inclusion, CEISD, CITaG, YUVA Scheme with Govt of J & K, SBDU, and Anandam – The Center for Happiness, all focused on innovation, inclusion, and social impact. He also announced Bandhan, a unique initiative where students will stay with local Dogri families to foster community connection.Encouraging students to serve society and lead with passion, he reminded them that they are the brand ambassadors of IIM Jammu, and urged them to contribute meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 as envisioned by Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. Quoting Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, he concluded, “Vasudha ka netawahi jo vighnon se naghabraaye”—true leaders rise by overcoming challenges.

Shri Sudhir Langer, CEO and MD, RPSG FMCG, delivered an inspiring keynote address, reflecting on his own journey that began at Army School Nagrota—making his visit to IIM Jammu a moment of personal pride. Sharing insights from his vantage point, he called it a great time to begin a career, with India’s economy thriving under strong leadership. He encouraged students to think big, embrace creativity, and take bold steps, emphasizing that success lies in daring to innovate and challenging oneself.He urged students to understand risk—not to avoid it, but to manage it wisely—and highlighted that in today’s competitive world, marginal efforts have no space. Drawing from the fast-evolving quick commerce sector, he emphasized the need for mental toughness, resilience, and adaptability. He concluded by saying that the world is full of immense possibilities, and with passion and a sense of ownership, students can achieve anything they set their minds to.

Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Faculty and Research, IIM Jammu, described the Orientation Programme as a glimpse into the enriching journey ahead, emphasizing the importance of understanding the Institute’s values, culture, and vision. He encouraged students to stay committed and actively contribute to the growth of IIM Jammu, the region, and the nation, in alignment with Viksit Bharat @2047.

Prof. Nitin Upadhyay, Dean (Academics), provided a comprehensive overview of the five-day Holistic Orientation Programme at IIM Jammu, highlighting its emphasis on academic readiness, leadership building, emotional well-being, and peer learning.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Anandam and Media and Publication Division, IIM Jammu, who took a refreshing and humorous approach, leaving the audience both engaged and entertained. His unique style added a memorable conclusion to the ceremony, reflecting the vibrant and inclusive spirit of IIM Jammu. The valedictory ceremony culminated with the national anthem.

Mr. Dev Kumar Tripathy, CFO, Philips, underscored the future of finance as rooted in agility, ethical leadership, and strategic storytelling. Shri Saurabh Deep Singla, Former CHRO, IndiaMart, emphasized purpose-driven growth, self-motivation, and embracing AI as a co-pilot. Dr. Savita Tevatia, Marengo Asia Hospitals, inspired students to bridge performance and potential through discipline, resilience, and integrity—reminding them that “if you sweat in peace, you won’t bleed in war.”

The day commenced with an invigorating session on Maximize Happiness and Mindfulness led by Shri Sahil Mehra under the aegis of Anandam – The Center of Happiness. The session focused on enhancing emotional well-being and inner peace. Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, and Brig. Neeraj Soni (Retd.), Co-Chairperson, Anandam, welcomed participants.

Prof. Ravij Seth, Professor of Practice at IIM Jammu, in his closing remarks during the keynote address of Chief Secretary Shri Atal Dulloo, IAS, proposed that ‘J-K’ be spoken with a hyphen, instead of J&K, to symbolize the growing connectedness in the region, especially post the launch of the Vande Bharat Express. He also suggested the establishment of a School of Public Policy at IIM Jammu, in collaboration with the Government of J&K, and extended an invitation to the Hon’ble Chief Secretary to visit the campus for a future in-person interaction with the students.Prof. Pankaj Maheshwari, Chairperson, Placements, IIM Jammu, provided a comprehensive overview of the Institute’s strong placement ecosystem, emphasizing growing industry partnerships, career-readiness initiatives, and practical exposure through internships, live projects, and corporate interactions.

The day concluded with Rang Tarang – A Festival of Theatre and Dance, presented by the IPM 4th Batch under the guidance of Padma Shri Balwant Thakur, showcasing student talent and regional heritage. The performances were graced by Prof. B.S. Sahay and Shri Thakur, who applauded the students’ creativity and energy.

The Orientation Programme 2025 served as a powerful launchpad for the new cohorts, reaffirming IIM Jammu’s unwavering dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic student development.