The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, under the leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, inaugurated the second Capacity Building Program for officials from the Planning and Monitoring Department and the Finance Department of the Government of Jammu & Kashmir. The inaugural ceremony was held at the Vivekananda Classroom, Jagti, on October 14, 2024. The training program is organized from October 14 to 16, 2024 and is being coordinated by the Executive Education and Consultancy department for the Centre for Innovation and Transformation in Governance (CITaG) at IIM Jammu.

The program under the Centre for Innovation and Transformation in Governance (CITaG), is a visionary initiative of the Planning Development & Monitoring Department, Government of J&K. This center integrates the State Institute of Transformation, NITI Aayog, GoI, the PPP Cell funded by the Department of Economic Affairs, GoI, and the Future Ready Governance initiative of the J&K Government. IIM Jammu serves as the Nodal Knowledge Partner and implementing body for CITaG, guiding its mission to bring transformational change to the region. 

The program commenced with a traditional lamp lighting ceremony at Vivekananda Hall, symbolizing knowledge and wisdom. Dignitaries and participants were welcomed by Dr. Anuja Akhouri, Program Director, IIM Jammu, who provided an overview of the program’s objectives and the diverse topics to be covered over the next three days. She emphasized the importance of the program in contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, urging everyone to actively participate in this collective effort. Following her address, a brief video showcased the accomplishments and initiatives of IIM Jammu, reflecting its role in fostering excellence in education and governance.

Dr. Pratik Maheshwari, Co-Chairperson, Executive Education and Consultancy (EE&C), IIM Jammu introduced the institute’s broad range of executive learning programs. He highlighted the value of continuous learning for public officials through a collaborative approach.

Dr. Rashmi Ranjan Parida, Program Director, IIM Jammu, shared his past experiences in Odisha with the Backward Regions Grant Fund (BRGF) and his work in the Red Corridor, underscoring that governance is a mutual learning process. He emphasized that officials, with their vast data and practical insights, have much to offer, while also receiving new knowledge through such training programs. He provided a comprehensive overview of IIM Jammu, noting that the institute has grown from 49 students to 1,180 students. He also discussed the various academic programs offered, reaffirming IIM Jammu’s dedication to delivering world-class education.

Participants were encouraged to share their expectations and goals for the program. Dr. Bijoy Rakshit, Program Director, IIM Jammu, expressed gratitude to all attendees and organizers in his vote of thanks. The inaugural ceremony culminated with the National Anthem, followed by a visit to the Nalanda Library, a group photo session, and high tea.

The Centre for Innovation and Transformation in Governance (CITaG) at IIM Jammu is a pioneering initiative that seeks to drive positive change and innovation in governance. By focusing on capacity building, promoting public-private partnerships, and developing future-ready governance frameworks, CITaG aims to elevate Jammu & Kashmir to the level of the best-performing states and UTs in India.