By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Inaugurating the 1st Batch of Executive Post Graduate Programme (PGPEx) on International Business with special reference to China already dubbed as the first ever, TKA Nair, Advisor to the Prime Minister of India, said, “We are living in an era of emerging economies and in dealing with the scenario, active participation is required from professional managers with requisite aptitude and capabilities, through learning processes and by acquiring the capacity to deal with new and challenging situations.”
Referring to the improved relations between India and China, Nair said that times have changed and both countries are now focussed on doing business and for that, India has to learn from China and compete. “China’s role and global economy is bound to grow in the days to come, and we have to learn to live, and compete as a friendly neighbour,” Nair added.
“The PM reminds all interlocutors that we cannot choose our neigbours but must explore avenues for business opportunities with them for mutual advancement,” Nair said, adding that we need to look to the future and leave conflict behind. Nair admitted that there is a definite trade imbalance between India and China to the extent of one-third of the GDP. “Instead of looking at our neighbors, we should take advantage of current developing scenarios where economy, trade and commerce shall serve as determinants towards growth in positive relationships,” he said.
The PM’s Advisor said the programme launched by RGIIM Shillong is “extremely timely, will benefit institutions and the country at large.” Inspiring the students, Nair emphasized that the 35 founding participants would be the torch bearers for strengthening relationships between the two countries and also serve as ambassadors of the country in true spirit. Potentially India should tap the niche markets in China and cited the example of Tata Consultancy Services, although China, he said is not an open end market.
This programme initiated by RGIIM Director, Prof Ashoke K Dutta is expected to pave the way for a fruitful collaboration with the Ocean University, China.
Earlier, while addressing the first batch of 35 students undertaking the PGPEx, Prof Dutta said, “We expect you to be morally upright, intellectually competent, socially committed and spiritually inspired, all the while taking advantage of being a member of the IIM community.” Prof Dutta, who will demit office soon, also spoke about the journey of RGIIM and how it has become an institute of excellence over a period of only four years.
Dutta highlighted the courses offered by the RGIIM and said there are three PGPEx courses on offer, in collaboration with the National University of Juridical Sciences, National Stock Exchange and Ocean University, China.
Prof Dutta further informed that RGIIM has very recently tied-up with SAP, the leader in business management software for e-governance to target villages in and around Shillong. “This will ensure e-governance benefits to those who matters the most and will also raise the human development index (HDI) in this region.” Dutta added.
Others who spoke at the function included Prof S Kakoty who gave an account of the RIO 50-20 Envisions, an initiative of the management education community to participate in and contribute to public dialogue on the challenges of the world, earth, society, citizens and business in the coming decades.
Prior to the inauguration Nair visited RGIIM Shillong’s permanent campus site located at Umsawli and planted a sapling keeping in tune with RGIIM Shillong’s thrust on sustainable development.