In his address, Shri Murugappan expressed his pride in the new batch, acknowledging the hard work they had put in to secure admission to the institute. Reflecting on the diverse backgrounds of the students, he encouraged the students to make the most of their time, learn from each other, and find ways to contribute to the nation. Applauding the Director, Prof. Himanshu Rai, and the brilliant faculty, Shri Murugappan, said to the students, “Your time at IIM Indore will be a meaningful and rewarding experience. Under the leadership of the Director and the faculty members, you will learn valuable lessons and skills that will help you grow and evolve at personal and professional levels”, he said. Shri Murugappan then touched upon the global landscape, describing it as an interesting and challenging time. He acknowledged the prevalence of violence and counter-violence, highlighting the shifting geopolitical dimensions that would impact both the students’ future careers and the world at large. “In this changing scenario, make sure to remain curious, continuously learn, and reflect on the implications of these changes. These will also help you admire India’s resilience”, he said. He recognized India’s aspirations as a young nation and the favorable demographic factors that presented significant opportunities for both the nation and the world. “While neighboring regions face difficulties, India has been emerging as a leader, and thus the importance of students like you grows as well, for you will be leading the nation’s future once you graduate”, he said. He reminded them not to lose their youthful energy and to embrace the joy of learning while contributing to the upliftment of the less privileged with their knowledge and contributions.
Prof. Rai began his address to the new batch by acknowledging the auspicious timing of their arrival. He shared the news that the institute had recently been honored with the prestigious “One of the Best Education Brands Award” by the Economic Times on June 29, 2023. “This recognition solidifies our standing as one of the country’s top business schools”, he said. He attributed this achievement to the institute’s commitment to maintaining a contextually relevant curriculum that aligned with industry standards. He also highlighted the presence of world-class faculty members who would provide the students with exceptional guidance. “We are dedicated to nurturing socially conscious managers and leaders who would actively contribute to nation-building, environmental protection, and sustainability”, he added. He shared with the new batch the importance of being open to new experiences and continuous learning. “Your journey at IIM Indore would be transformative; thus, make sure to embrace each opportunity for growth and development. Find purpose in your pursuits, combining your vision and imagination, for these qualities help unlock the true essence and direction of our lives”, he said. He urged the students to make the most of their time at the institution, emphasizing the value of learning and gaining wisdom. He encouraged them to actively engage with their peers, recognizing that a wealth of knowledge and insights lay within their cohort.