The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu inaugurated its orientation program for the incoming batches at its state-of-the-art campus in Jagti. The event welcomed the 5th Batch of Ph.D., the 3rd Batch of Ph.D. (WP), the 9th Batch of MBA, the 3rd Batch of MBA (HA&HM), and the 4th Batch of EMBA. Renowned Yoga Guru Shri Sahil Mehra led a yoga session to kick off the five-day holistic orientation program. The yoga session, themed "Maximize Happiness and Mindfulness," aimed to set a positive tone for the new academic journey, focusing on the well-being and mindfulness of the students.

Chief Guest, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon'ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, Govt. of India, was given an extensive tour of the campus, including the state-of-the-art library, Nalanda, and smart classrooms. He also planted a Rudraksha tree on this momentous occasion and inaugurated the Orientation Program. Meanwhile, the new students had the opportunity to introduce themselves alongside the esteemed faculty members. Coordinated by Dr. Manu Bansal, Chairperson, IPM, and Dr. Apurva, Co-Chairperson, Student Affairs, this session was crucial in fostering initial connections within the IIM Jammu community. The inaugural program commenced with Dr. Anuja Akhouri, Chairperson, Corporate Communication, IIM Jammu, serving as the master of ceremonies. The inauguration began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by Saraswati Vandana performed by second-year students.

Chief Guest, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, noted that IIM Jammu has quickly become one of the premier institutions of higher learning in the country. He remarked, "From struggling to find faculty in its early days, IIM Jammu now enrolls over 500 students each year. It has come a long way in a short time." He emphasized that establishing IIM Jammu is a significant step towards realizing the dream of providing quality education and producing leaders who will drive the nation towards unprecedented growth, aiming for a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. He advocated for collaboration and synergy among institutions for the greater benefit of their students. "The age of working in silos is over; the era of collaboration is here," he declared, encouraging IIM Jammu, AIIMS Jammu, IIT Jammu, and the Central University of Jammu to form partnerships through MoUs on Research and Development and Artificial Intelligence.

He highlighted the potential of tapping the Himalayan bio-resources and unexplored minerals along coastal areas to significantly boost India’s economy and promote 'AtmaNirbharta' (self-reliance). He emphasized that India's Coastal States and Himalayan States/UTs, like J&K, have much to offer for the country's economic future. Discussing the aspirations of the younger generation, he noted that better times are unfolding under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, with startups booming and creating new opportunities. He stated, "Technology has been a great leveller, providing opportunities for everyone from every region." He urged the youth to harness technology for societal good, highlighting that it has created a level playing field, unlike in the past when it was a privilege of a few.

Dr. Milind Kamble, Chairman, BoG, IIM Jammu in his presidential address, delivered a compelling message to the new students. He reminded them that they are the architects of their own destiny, emphasizing that their future is in their hands. He encouraged the students to take charge of their journey, make bold decisions, and seize opportunities with confidence

Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Gupta, Director, AIIMS Jammu, in his welcome address, emphasized the importance of empathy and genuine concern for well-being as students navigate the complexities of healthcare. He highlighted that while technical expertise and knowledge are crucial, the true essence of healthcare lies in the compassionate care provided to patients.

Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, Director, IIT Jammu, drew a metaphor, likening life to a coffee cup, suggesting that while the cup may come in different shapes and sizes, what truly matters is the coffee within, symbolizing the essence and substance of life.

Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, emphasized the necessity of having a deep passion and a touch of madness in life, urging students to embrace their "deewangi" as a driving force. He encouraged the students to dream big, stating that big dreams lead to big thoughts, which in turn lead to big actions. He passionately declared that nothing is impossible, and that each individual possesses the power to change the world. He also expressed his happiness about the 65% female representation in the current MBA batch, relating it to the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative and female empowerment. He highlighted this as a significant achievement and a testament to the progress being made towards gender equality in education.

Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Academics, IIM Jammu in his insightful talk on ‘Academics at IIM Jammu’ delivered an impactful message to the incoming students, encouraging them to fully dedicate themselves to their academic journey, promising that this commitment would lead to profound personal and professional transformation. He reiterated to the students that the intensive two-year program would equip them with new skills, perspectives, and experiences, shaping them into more capable individuals ready to tackle future challenges. He remarked, "For you to shine, come prepared."

Dr. Rashmi Ranjan Parida, Chairperson of Admissions, presented the students' profiles, highlighting the diverse backgrounds and exceptional qualifications of the new cohort. He showcased their academic achievements, professional experiences, and varied skill sets. 

The afternoon session featured an engaging talk by Shri R.R. Swain, Director General of Police (DGP), Jammu and Kashmir, coordinated by Dr. Mahesh Gadekar and Dr. Sumesh P.S. Shri R.R. Swain delivered a powerful message emphasizing the critical importance of clarity, especially in matters of national security. He pointed out that a lack of clarity can have dire consequences, potentially costing lives. He also shared his vision for a future where the common people of Jammu and Kashmir are not deprived of peace, order, and prosperity. He also planted a Rudraksha tree on this momentous occasion.

This was followed by a session titled ‘First Steps Towards Management World’ by Ms. Mekhla Sinha, Executive Director, GHRDC, coordinated by Dr. Anuja Akhouri and Dr. M. Vijay Prabhagar. She inspired the new cohort with her insightful advice. She urged the students to adopt a mantra of delivering excellence in every endeavour they undertake. Emphasizing continuous self-improvement, she highlighted that their benchmark should be their own growth—comparing themselves today with who they strive to become tomorrow.

Cmdr Kesavan Baskkaran, Chief Administrative Officer, IIM Jammu, warmly welcomed the new students by emphasizing the importance of treating the institute as their home for the next two years. He stressed that their responsibility extends beyond just their rooms and classrooms, urging them to take care of the entire campus. His message underscored the value of maintaining and respecting their surroundings, fostering a sense of community, and contributing to the institute's well-being.

After a short break, the next session focused on ‘Academic Rigor, Pedagogy and Expectation’ from students, conducted by Dr. Rambalak Yadav, Chairperson (Doctoral Program), IIM Jammu Dr. Parvathy B, Chairperson (MBA), IIM Jammu, Dr. Harsha Jariwala, Chairperson (MBA (HA&HM)), IIM Jammu and Dr. Archana Sharma, Chairperson (EMBA), IIM Jammu. This session aimed to set the academic expectations for the new batch.

Shri Arup Bhattacharya, Administrative Officer – Academics, IIM Jammu discussed ‘Academic Regulations, Academic Discipline and Student Handbook’. The evening concluded with snacks and networking, followed by interactions with council and committee students from the second year, coordinated by the Office of Student Affairs.

The day ended on a high note with the IIM Jammu Family Dinner, offering a wonderful opportunity for the new students to mingle with faculty and peers in a relaxed setting. IIM Jammu is committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment for its students, and the orientation program is a testament to this commitment. The institute eagerly looks forward to the contributions and achievements of the new batches in the years to come.