Dharmendra Pradhan Unveils Rangavati Centre of Excellence at IIM-Sambalpur During PAN IIM Conference

The Rangavati Centre of Excellence in Cultural and Sustainable Management at the Indian Institute of Management-Sambalpur (IIM-S) was officially opened on January 22 during the 9th PAN IIM World Management Conference (WMC) by Union Minister for Education, Skill Development, and Entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan.

Pradhan said at the centre’s unveiling on the first day of the PAN IIM World Management Conference that it will serve as a focal point for maintaining Odisha’s unique cultural heritage, culinary traditions, dance forms and music. “The primary focus of the centre will be on research in art, literature, culture, and history of western Odisha with special emphasis on textiles,” he added. 

Ratnesh Jha, executive director of the UN Global Compact, SN Tripathi, DG of IIPA in New Delhi, and Romal Shetty, CEO of Deloitte, graced the inaugural ceremony. At the event, IIM Jammu director BS Sahay, IIM Kashipur director Kulbhushan Balooni, IIM Nagpur director Bhimaraya Metri, and IIM Trichy director Pawan Kumar Singh were also present.

In addition to highlighting the 3Ds disruptions—Digitalization, Decarbonisation, and Democratisation of business—Prof Mahadeo Jaiswal, the director of IIM-S, stressed India’s ability to lead the world in digital disruptions by mentioning programmes like UIDAI and UPI.

“The Rangavati Centre will have an open theatre to showcase the vibrant art and culture of the region. This endeavour underscores our commitment to forge a significant bond with the local community, highlighting the significance of embracing and commemorating regional development and diversity,” Jaiswal added. 

The conference, which ends on January 23, will be attended by directors of 21 IIMs. Participants from a number of IIMs, IITs, NITs, and other management institutes in India and outside are anticipated to attend the event. During the conference, almost one thousand research papers will be presented. “Entrepreneurial Innovation and Digital Governance for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth” is the theme for this year’s PAN IIM World Management Conference.