The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu under the leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, in collaboration with the Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce (DICCI), concluded the valedictory ceremony for the fifth batch of the Capacity Building Program on Small Business Development Units (SBDUs). The ceremony took place at the Bharat Classroom, IIM Jammu Jagti Campus, on 1st July 2024, marking a new chapter in entrepreneurial empowerment.

The fifth batch which comprised of 39 participants from various parts of the country, including individuals from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. During the ceremony, participants shared their experiences, highlighting the transformative impact of the program on their entrepreneurial journeys.

Dr. Sarbjit Singh, Program Director, SBDU, IIM Jammu, expressed that the program has been a wonderful journey filled with new learnings and constructive discussions. He highlighted that this marks the beginning of a new journey and emphasized that new elements will be incorporated into upcoming programs to stay in tune with the times. As always advocated by Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, he urged everyone to think beyond the skies.

Dr. Mahesh Gadekar, Chairperson, Centre for Small Business Development, and Program Director, IIM Jammu expressed his hope for all participants to grow and prosper. He emphasized that the nation has high expectations and stressed the importance of participants developing their start-ups, creating jobs, employing people, and contributing to strengthening the Indian economy and nation-building.

Among the notable attendees were Dr. Vivek Sharma, Chief Innovation Officer (CIO), Centre for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Skill Development, IIM Jammu; and Shri Naren Karunakaran, Consultant, Centre for Diversity and Inclusion, IIM Jammu, including officers and staff of IIM Jammu.

The ceremony included the distribution of certificates, followed by the rendition of the national anthem, symbolizing unity and collective aspirations. The event was coordinated by the Small Business Development Unit Team, IIM Jammu.

The Capacity Building Program on Small Business Development Units by IIM Jammu sets the stage for transformative growth, empowering aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to realize their dreams and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the nation.