The Indian Institute of Management Ranchi concluded its Young Changemakers Programme (YCP) - Rural Immersion Bootcamp Global Edition with an inspiring valedictory ceremony, hosting participants from six countries and twenty states. The event had the Valedictory session with a keynote address by Padma Shree (2006) and Padma Bhushan (2020) Shri Anil Joshi and Award Distribution Ceremony and Closing Speech by Padma Shree (2015) Shri Ashok Bhagat.

Shri Joshi's address stressed sustainable resource management, highlighting the perils of shortsighted exploitation. He critiqued current practices contributing to soil degradation, water depletion, and pollution, advocating for an ecological growth measure akin to GDP for sustainable development.

In his poignant speech, Mr. Joshi highlighted the urgency of managing resources sustainably, emphasizing the need for a system that prioritizes responsible utilization. He lamented the shortsightedness of human intelligence, which often exploits resources without considering their interconnectedness with nature. Mr. Joshi concerned about current practices contributing to soil degradation, water depletion, and pollution, attributing blame to the commodification of natural resources and the unequal distribution exacerbating these challenges.

Additionally, he highlighted the need for a shift in economic evaluation, suggesting an ecological growth measure akin to GDP, termed GEP (Gross Ecological Product), as a metric for sustainable development.

As the event unfolded, in recognition of extraordinary prowess and innovative problem-solving acumen, Prof. Deepak Kumar Srivastava and Mr. Anil Joshi bestowed the  Programme Laureate Certificate upon Team Satva—comprising the erudite members Husain Nakhoda, Lekhana, Amartya Jayavel, Vaishnavi Swadha, Veeksha Kumaran. 

Delivering his oration, Prof. Deepak Kumar Srivastava illuminated the audience with the unique nature of the YCP program and his desire to see it grow into a brighter future. 

In a thought-provoking address, Mr. Bhagat advocated a return to our roots, urging a deeper exploration of Indian philosophy and the teachings of visionaries like Gandhi and Vivekananda. Emphasizing the essence of spirituality as a guiding force within society, he stressed that it doesn't entail isolation but rather serves as a compass, steering society towards righteousness. He lauded the Prime Minister for his efforts in upholding the rich tapestry of Indian culture, underscoring the importance of preserving and cherishing these foundational principles that resonate deeply within our heritage.

As the curtains descended on the proceedings, Prof. Gaurav Marathe expressed profound gratitude for the crescendo of a nascent idea into a bright initiative. The ceremony culminated in a poignant note of hope and aspiration.