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JAMMU: Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu hosted its 7th and 8th Annual Convocation on April 6th, 2025, at the “Rangmanch” Amphitheatre, in its Jagti Campus. Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange (NSE), graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered the convocation address. Padmashri Dr. Milind Kamble, Chairman, Board of Governors, IIM Jammu, delivered the welcome address, while Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, presented the Director’s Report, highlighting the key achievements of the Institute.
The day’s program commenced with a campus tour, followed planting of a sapling by Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan. Group photographs were taken to capture special moments. The academic procession moved towards Rangmanch, where Dr. MilindKamble, formally declared the convocation open. The convocation began with lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Chief Guest and other dignitaries, followed by a soulful rendition of Saraswati Vandana by Shri Suraj Singh Ji. The dignitaries were felicitated with bouquets and mementoes as a token of appreciation.
A total of 772 students received their degrees at the convocation. This includes 499 students from the MBA program, 114 students from MBA Hospital Administration & Healthcare Management (MBA HA&HM), 99 students from the Integrated Programme in Management (IPM), 3 students from the Ph.D. program, and 46 students from the Executive MBA (EMBA) and 11 Students from the Executive MBA in Corporate Affairs and Management program.
Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange congratulated the graduating students, their families, and IIM Jammu's leadership and faculty. He highlighted the institute's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and its role in nation-building in the unique context of Jammu and Kashmir. He encouraged graduates to leverage both traditional and modern knowledge to solve India's challenges, emphasizing the need for well-qualified professionals. He acknowledged the current global uncertainties but pointed to India's stability and rising global stature, which will benefit the graduates in their careers.
Addressing the graduates' potential anxieties, he shared guiding principles for success: be grateful, responsible, continuously curious, hungry for knowledge, courageous, sincere, humble, ethicaland kind. He also advised them to be patient yet passionate, consistently add value, remain open to new opportunities and maintain optimism. He stressed the importance of serving family, society, and the nation, urging them to be agents of change and contribute to India's progress. He advised them to enjoy the journey, persevere, adapt to changing realitiesand seize the immense opportunities presented by India's growth over the next 50 years.His address served as a reminder that integrity, gratitude, and continuous learning are the cornerstones of responsible leadership.He concluded by wishing them success as they transition from students to alumni and lead India towards a prosperous future.
Padmashri Dr. Milind Kamble, Chairman, Board of Governors, IIM Jammu welcomed Shri Ashish Kumar Chauhan and other dignitaries to the Joint 7th and 8th Convocation of IIM Jammu. He hailed Shri Chauhan as a key architect of India’s modern financial markets, instrumental in transforming NSE into a global leader in trading and innovation. His inspiring leadership aligns with India’s vision of becoming a $5 trillion economy and serves as a model for aspiring managers at IIM Jammu. Reflecting on India’s doubling from $ 2.1 trillion in 2015 to $4.3 trillion in 2025- an unprecedented 105% GDP growth, he emphasized the role of strong financial systems and technology in driving Viksit Bharat—a self-reliant, resilient, and globally influential India. He appreciated the implementation of NEP 2020, aligning with IIM Jammu’s multidisciplinary and innovation-driven approach. He highlighted the inauguration of IIM Jammu’s state-of-the-art campus by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2024 as a milestone that fosters entrepreneurship and leadership.
Applauding the institute’s achievements, he mentioned the prestigious five-year BGA International Accreditation and acknowledged IIM Jammu’s contribution for Jammu & Kashmir and the nation through various capacity building initiatives and national conferences. He mentioned about the Centres of Excellence in innovation, governance, and entrepreneurship, and commended Ânandam: The Center for Happiness for nurturing emotional intelligence and ethical leadership. Congratulating the graduates, he encouraged them to serve as proud ambassadors of IIM Jammu, committed to building a self-reliant and globally recognized India.
Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, presented the Director’s Report and delivered an inspiring address tracing the Institute’s remarkable journey since its inception in 2016. He extended a warm welcome to Chief Guest Shri Ashish Kumar Chauhan, and acknowledged Padmashri Dr. Milind Kamble, Chairman, BoG, board members, faculty, staff, media, and guests. He highlighted IIM Jammu’s rapid growth, academic diversification, and key milestones, notably the inauguration of its permanent Jagti Campus by the Hon’ble Prime Minister in 2024. He celebrated the achievements of medal winners and shared the Institute’s consistent placement success, with leading recruiters offering attractive compensation packages.
He emphasized the Institute’s robust research ecosystem, global collaborations, and recent recognition—awarded BGA Accreditation for five years. He noted IIM Jammu’s 42nd position in NIRF 2024 among Management Institutes, 18th among IIMs, and 22nd in IIRF 2025.He commended the faculty and student accomplishments and highlighted the Institute’s expanding footprint in Jammu and Kashmir through entrepreneurship and startup training programs. He highlighted that the Centre for Innovation and
Transformation in Governance (CITaG) at IIM Jammu plays a key role in fostering PPPs, building capacity, advancing e-governance, and promoting data-driven decisions to boost institutional efficiency and drive sustainable economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir. Through these initiatives, CITaG aims to enhance institutional efficiency, accelerate sustainable growth, and contribute to strengthening the national and global economy. Addressing the graduating batch, he urged them to lead with integrity, compassion, and excellence, contributing to Viksit Bharat @2047. He concluded with a verse from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, inspiring graduates to move from darkness to light.
The proceedings continued with the awarding of degrees by the Chairman, Board of Governors, IIM Jammu, followed by Oath Taking Ceremony by the Director, IIM Jammu. Shri Ashish Kumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange released the Convocation Souvenir in the presence of Padmashri Dr. Milind Kamble, Chairman, BoG, IIM Jammu and Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu
Outstanding students from all programs were awarded medals for their academic excellence. The Chairperson BOG, IIM Jammu Gold Medal for the MBA (2022-24) batch was awarded to Mr. Satyan Singh for achieving the highest CGPA. Mr. Shahabaj Rajmohmmad Shaikh received the Director, IIM Jammu Silver Medal, and Mr. Mushahid Fayaz was conferred the Chairperson MBA, IIM Jammu Bronze Medal. In the subsequent MBA (2023-25) batch, Mr. Mohd Salman was awarded with the Chairperson BOG, IIM Jammu Gold Medal, Mr. Rishab Kumar Bharadwaj received the Director, IIM Jammu Silver Medal, and Mr. Abhilash Dwivedi was awarded the Chairperson MBA, IIM Jammu Bronze Medal. For the MBA (HA&HM) program, Mr. Prabhakaran R (2022-24 batch) and Mr. Puneet Shukla (2023-25 batch) were both presented with the Chairperson BOG, IIM Jammu Gold Medal. In the EMBA program,
Mr. Lalit Kumar received the Chairperson BOG, IIM Jammu Gold Medal for the 2022-24 batch, and Ms. Manisha Srivastava was awarded the same distinction for the 2023-25 batch. From the Integrated Program in Management (IPM), Ms. Ojal Mijar (2021-24 batch) was conferred the Chairperson BOG, IIM Jammu Gold Medal, Ms. Diya Gupta received the Director, IIM Jammu Silver Medal, and Ms. Mehak was awarded with the Chairperson IPM, IIM Jammu Bronze Medal. Similarly, in the IPM (2022-25) batch, Ms. Vidushi Mittal received the Chairperson BOG, IIM Jammu Gold Medal, Ms. Vanshika was awarded the Director, IIM Jammu Silver Medal, and Ms. Ananya Seth secured the Chairperson IPM, IIM Jammu Bronze Medal. These accolades recognize the hard work and academic excellence of the students at IIM Jammu.The ceremony concluded with the Chairman, BoG, IIM Jammu, declaring the Convocation closed. This was followed by the National Anthem, the return of the Convocation procession, and a formal dinner.
Present on the occasion were Shri Lalit Kumar Naik, Member, BOG, IIM Jammu; Dr. Suresh T Salunke, Member, BOG, IIM Jammu, Dr. VijaySinh S Gambhire, Member, BOG, IIM Jammu, Smt. Vandana Bhatnagar, Member, BOG, IIM Jammu,Shri Indraneel Chitale, Member, BOG, Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean Academics, Prof. Nitin Upadhyay, Chairperson, MBA, IIM Jammu, Dr. Harsha Jariwala, Chairperson, MBA HA & HM, IIM Jammu Dr. Ashish Kumar, Chairperson, IPM, IIM Jammu, Dr. Mamta Tripathi, Chairperson, EMBA, IIM Jammu along with other dignitaries, faculty, officers and staff of IIM Jammu.
The host for the evening was Dr. Anuja Akhouri, Assistant Professor, IIM Jammu. IIM Jammu was awarded the prestigious Business Graduates Association (BGA) Accreditation for five years on March 28th, 2025, setting new benchmarks in global management education and strengthening its position among top business schools worldwide. The Institute holds the 22nd position in the IIRF Rankings 2025 and has established 21 international partnerships. The Institute's alumni network is rapidly expanding, currently comprising 1035 members. Notably, IIM Jammu has played a significant role in fostering entrepreneurship in the region, having trained over 500 entrepreneurs and incubated 18 startups in Jammu and 20 startups in Srinagar since 2022.
IIM Jammu achieved remarkable placement outcomes for the 7th MBA batch (2022-24), with all 244 students placed across key domains such as BFSI, Consulting, Strategy, Marketing, Operations, HR, IT, and Analytics. The process saw participation from 154 companies, including 56 new recruiters. Top recruiters included Accenture, Aditya Birla Capital, Axis Bank, BNY Mellon, Cognizant, Diageo, HCL Tech, ICICI, Infosys, Mahindra, Reliance Industries, Tata Motors, Thomson Reuters, Vedanta, and Wipro. The 8th MBA batch (2023-25), comprising 253 students, is witnessing strong placement traction, with 20 leading new recruiters such as American Express, BNP Paribas, Frost & Sullivan, Gartner, Grant Thornton, IBM, Nestle, Jasper Collins, KIA India, Maruti Suzuki, SBI Capital Markets, and Xiaomi. Additionally, the 9th MBA batch (2024-26) secured 100% internship placements for all 290 students, reaffirming the institute's growing reputation and the trust by the corporate sector. The placement success is a testament to IIM Jammu’s growing reputation as one of the fastest-growing B-schools in India
As part of its commitment to academic excellence, IIM Jammu offers diverse programs, including MBA, MBA (Hospital Administration & Healthcare Management) in collaboration with IIT Jammu and AIIMS Jammu, a Dual Degree Programme with IIT Jammu (B.Tech +MBA), Integrated Programme in Management (IPM), Ph.D. Programme, and Executive MBA.IIM Jammu continues its journey of excellence, celebrating the success of its graduates and reaffirming its commitment to shaping visionary leaders who drive global impact and societal transformation.
JAMMU: The CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, under the leadership of Director Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, and a Kerala based Company, M/s Pankajakasthuri India (P) Ltd., led by Founder and Managing Director Padma Shri Dr. J. Hareendran Nair, have signed an agreement for a sponsored research project. This collaboration focuses on the pre-clinical validation of a poly-herbal formulation designed to manage bronchial asthma, conducted under the AYUSH framework.
The agreement was formally signed by Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, on behalf of CSIR-IIIM, and Dr. J. Hareendran Nair, on behalf of M/s Pankajakasthuri India (P) Ltd. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of key CSIR-IIIM team members, including Er. Abdul Rahim (Chief Scientist & Head, RMBD&IST), Dr. Naved Qazi (Head, NPMC), Dr. P.P. Singh (Senior Principal Scientist, NPMC), Dr. Prasoon Gupta (Senior Principal Scientist, NPMC), Dr. Raj Kishore Rai (Senior Scientist & Head, QMI), Dr. M.K. Verma (In-Charge, DTL), Dr. Boobalan G (Scientist, Pharmacology), Dr. Ramajayan P (Scientist, Pharmacology), Dr. Love Sharma (Scientist, RMBD&IST), and Dr. Sheikh Rayees Rafiq (YI, RF, Pharmacology). Representing Pankajakasthuri were Kishan Chand (Executive Director) and Dr. M.A. Nambi (Coordinator, Research Projects).
Prior to the signing ceremony, Dr. PP Singh delivered a presentation highlighting the achievements of CSIR-IIIM, while M/s Pankajakasthuri India (P) Ltd. presented a brief video showcasing their CSR initiatives aimed at benefiting society.
A spokesperson elaborated that the partnership aims to scientifically validate Pankajakasthuri’s poly-herbal formulation under the AYUSH mode, blending traditional wisdom with cutting-edge scientific methods to create innovative healthcare solutions. As part of the project, CSIR-IIIM will undertake detailed phytochemical standardization, in-vitro bioassays, in-vivo studies and toxicity assessment.
Dr. Zabeer Ahmed emphasized that this collaboration marks a groundbreaking step in the scientific validation of AYUSH products, supported by the Ministry of AYUSH and the Government of India. He highlighted that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and community well-being, merging diverse expertise to bridge the integration of traditional medicines with modern research.
Dr. J. Hareendran Nair, Managing Director of Pankajakasthuri, stated that collaborating with a renowned institution such as CSIR-IIIM will enhance the already well-established public confidence in their range of products. Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Kishan Chand, Executive Director of Pankajakasthuri, shared his satisfaction after engaging in detailed discussions with CSIR-IIIM’s scientific team, who will spearhead the project execution.
The event was organized by the RMBD&IST section, guided by Er. Abdul Rahim, Chief Scientist and Head of RMBD&IST, under the esteemed leadership of Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director of CSIR-IIIM, Jammu. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in advancing integrative medicine and promoting health innovations rooted in tradition and science.
PULWAMA: The CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine Jammu organized a two daytechnical and entrepreneurial skill development workshop at its Field Station in Bonera Pulwama, with a focused aim to empower women through scientific cultivation, processingand value addition of aromatic crops.The initiative is part of Institute’s CSIR Aroma Mission to translate its research and technologies into grassroots impact, particularly by empowering women in rural and semi-urban areas.
The workshop was designed to equip 100 women farmers, self-help group (SHG) members of National Rural Livelihood Mission with hands-on training and entrepreneurial knowledge to enhance income, livelihood opportunities, and foster the Agritech startup ecosystem.The two day programme featured onsite practical demonstrations and expert sessions on scientific cultivation of aromatic crops, post- harvest handling and processing, techniques to develop value-added products, market research and business model creation. Participants also interacted with successful women entrepreneurs trained under previous Aroma Mission initiatives, gaining insights into market opportunities and business challenges. At the culmination of the workshop 70000 quality plants of Lavender and Rosemary were distributed free of cost to the trained beneficiaries.
Speaking to our correspondent Dr Zabeer Ahmed, Director CSIR IIIM Jammu said that women are at the heart of our rural economy. By imparting scientific knowledge and entrepreneurial skills in aromatic crop cultivation and value addition, we are not only enhancing incomes but also nurturing a new generation of women-led agritech startups.He added that the Institute is dedicated to the development and dissemination of technologies based on medicinal and aromatic plants, with a strong focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and societal impact.This workshop at our Field Station in Pulwama is part of our ongoing effort to empower women as key drivers of economic change in the rural bioeconomy.
Addressing the participants at the workshop Dr Shahid Rasool, Senior Scientist and Incharge Field Station Pulwama informed that the activities under the Mission are in conformity with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 for empowering women and are personally being mentored and monitored by Dr Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Minister for Science and Technology. Through the CSIR Aroma Mission, we aim to bring scientific knowledge and entrepreneurship to the grassroots. This capacity-building initiative is expected to serve as a model for community-led development, creating new opportunities in the natural product value chain and helping integrate women more fully into India’s bioeconomy, he said.
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said that Jammu and Kashmir has faced numerous challenges over the years but is now gradually emerging from these challenges. He emphasized that efforts are underway to ensure the region becomes an equal stakeholder in the country’s overall development. The Chief Minister was speaking at Lok Samvardhan Parv, being held at the University of Kashmir from April 5 to 13 under the theme ‘Bhagidari se Bhagyodaya’.
“Wherever support is possible and wherever proposals from our side are pending approval, I humbly request that they be considered and approved so that people of Jammu and Kashmir can benefit,” the Chief Minister said. He was the Chief Guest at the event, which was inaugurated by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju.
Minister of State for Minority Affairs, George Kurien, also attended the event. Vice Chancellor of Kashmir University, Professor Nilofer Khan, along with other senior dignitaries, was also present on the occasion. Highlighting the importance of the programme, Omar Abdullah said the event marks a new beginning in the relationship between the Ministry of Minority Affairs and Jammu & Kashmir.
“This initiative offers a window into the rich cultural diversity, handicrafts and cuisines of the country, while also providing us the opportunity to showcase our own heritage—be it our crafts, traditional cuisine or natural beauty—to the visiting guests,” he said. The Chief Minister noted that while the Ministry of Minority Affairs may appear smaller in scope, its work holds deep national significance.
“In a country as diverse as ours—with different ways of life, multiple languages, varied cuisines and unique cultures—it is crucial to foster a sense of belonging and unity. The ministry plays a key role in ensuring that every citizen, regardless of background, feels part of the nation’s progress,” he said. He further acknowledged that the event has enabled local artisans, including those involved in handicrafts and traditional wazwan cuisine, to showcase their exceptional talent.
“The magic in their hands is on full display. At the same time, it is heartening to see participants from across the country sharing this platform,” he added. Referring to the tourist rush coinciding with the onset of the spring season, he said: “I understand the challenges many of you may have faced in reaching here—especially due to the traffic around the Tulip Garden. But what can we say—the charm of Kashmir draws everyone in.” The Chief Minister expressed hope that guests from across the country will carry back fond memories of the event and the valley’s hospitality.
Urging the Union Minister to continue his ministry’s support for Jammu & Kashmir, the Chief Minister said the region continues to face various challenges, including unemployment. “Your ministry’s initiatives—be it in education, skill training or market access—are vital. Our artisans work hard but struggle to reach broader markets. They face challenges in grooming the next generation for this craft, and often do not receive adequate support in skill development and training. I hope your ministry will help bridge this gap,” he said.
RAJOURI: The auspicious occasion of Ram Navami was celebrated with immense religious fervour and devotion across Rajouri, bringing together people from all walks of life in a spirit of unity and piety. Devotees gathered in large numbers to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Ram with grandeur and enthusiasm.
The highlight of the celebrations was the grand Ram Navami procession, which commenced from the Sanatan Dharam Sabha Temple and traversed through the main market before returning back. The procession was graced by the presence of DIG Rajouri-Poonch Range, Tejinder Singh; Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma and Senior Superintendent of Police Gaurav Sikarwar, who accompanied the devotees and participated in the celebrations.
Devotees chanted bhajans and hymns throughout the route, infusing the atmosphere with devotion and spiritual energy. The streets echoed with the sounds of conch shells, drums, and devotional songs, enhancing the festive spirit. The Deputy Commissioner extended warm greetings to the people on the occasion and urged all to imbibe the values and ideals of Lord Ram, which emphasize truth, righteousness, and compassion. He praised the communal harmony witnessed during the event.
SSP also conveyed his greetings and expressed satisfaction over the peaceful and well-coordinated conduct of the event. Later, the Deputy Commissioner also visited the revered Manma Mata Temple in Kalakote and the Ram Temple in Nowshera to pay his obeisance. He was accompanied by ADC Kalakote and ADC Nowshera respectively during these visits.
The district administration and security forces had made elaborate arrangements for the comfort and security of the participants. First-aid stations, drinking water facilities, and traffic management were efficiently handled to facilitate hassle-free participation. The celebrations culminated with special prayers and offerings at the Sanatan Dharam Sabha Temple, marking a successful and joyous Ram Navami in Rajouri.
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