IIM Jammu observes Ek Shaam Shaurya aur Prakaram Ke Naamwith GOC-in-C Northern Command, showcasing strategic vision and nation first spirit

JAMMU: Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu under the visionary leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu commemorated Prakaram Diwas – Ek Shaam Shaurya aur Prakaram Ke Naam at its Jagti Campus on 11 August 2025 with a special address by Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command. The event formed part of IIM Jammu’s Nation First initiatives aimed at fostering future business leaders with strong nationalistic values.

In his address on “Strategic Implications of Operation SINDOOR: Impact on the Economic Landscape of India” and “Building a Self-reliant Defence Sector in India”, Lt Gen Sharma emphasised that the operation’s significance extends far beyond the battlefield. It has influenced national economic strategies, boosted strategic signalling, and highlighted the urgent need for indigenous defence innovation. He underscored opportunities for startups in AI-enabled logistics, autonomous systems, battlefield transparency solutions, space and satellite technologies, and high-altitude mobility platforms. Stressing the importance of industry–academia–defence collaboration, he proposed initiatives such as joint incubation centres with IIM Jammu, field visits to forward areas for students, and cross-training programmes to build competitive advantages for both civilian and defence human capital.

Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, expressed heartfelt respect for the armed forces, acknowledging their unwavering commitment and sacrifice in safeguarding the nation. Drawing on his personal connection to the defence community, he expressed that the institute holds enduring gratitude for the valour and selfless service of those who protect the nation.He commended the exemplary valour displayed during Operation Sindoor, appreciating the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi Ji and the strategic excellence of the Defenceforces.

He highlighted IIM Jammu’s academic initiatives for defence personnel, including the Executive MBA (Hybrid Mode) and Ph.D. (Hybrid Mode) programmes, supported by a 20% scholarship for eligible candidates. He also announced that the DGRS Vertical Integration Programme is in advanced discussions and will be implemented shortly.He welcomed opportunities for collaboration, such as working with the Army Women Welfare Association (AWWA) for student counselling, launching initiatives to enhance and maintain the campus environment, and fostering regular interactions between armed forces personnel and students to share real-life experiences and insights.Emphasising the institute’s core values, he stated: “We are here because of our nation. Our recognition is owed to our nation. Therefore, we must always keep the nation first in all our endeavours.” 

Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding inChief, Northern Command, is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and Indian Military Academy, has attended prestigious strategic leadership programmes at the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Higher Command Course, and the National Defence College, New Delhi. Commissioned into the Infantry in 1987, his career spans over 38 years across varied terrains and operational environments.

He has held critical strategic positions, including Director General of Military Operations and Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy), leading transformative initiatives for the future of the Indian Army. Recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, and Sena Medal, he is one of the principal architects of Operation SINDOOR, a decisive mission that neutralised adversarial threats, disrupted terror networks, and altered the geopolitical dynamics of the Indian subcontinent, while projecting India’s diplomatic and military prowess on the global stage. 

The students, faculty, and staff members honoured Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, with a standing ovation in recognition of his inspiring address and distinguished service to the nation.

Present on the occasion were Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Faculty and Research; Prof. Nitin Upadhyay, Dean, Academics, Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Media and Publication Division, IIM Jammu and Anandam; Brigadier Neeraj Soni, Co-Chairperson, Anandam, IIM Jammu, Cmdr. Kesavan Baskkaran, CAO, IIM Jammu.

The evening concluded with an engaging Q&A session, a felicitation ceremony, and an atmosphere charged with inspiration—reflecting the synergy of military excellence, strategic foresight, and entrepreneurial vision. The vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Media and Publication Division, and Anandam, IIM Jammu and the event culminated with the National Anthem.With Ek Shaam Shaurya aur Prakaram Ke Naam, IIM Jammu reaffirmed its commitment to shaping visionary leaders who combine strategic insight, innovation, and an unwavering Nation First ethos to drive India’s growth story.