By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 25: Policymakers, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs and academicians conglomerated at IIM Shillong for a brainstorming event to hold deliberations on innovation, community engagement and India’s transformative journey toward Viksit Bharat 2047 under the theme ‘Together Towards India@2047: Community-Industry Synergy for Innovation and Growth’.
Delivering the inaugural address, Prof. Naliniprava Tripathy, Director in charge of IIM Shillong, said that India’s development vision calls for collective effort and shared responsibility.
She noted that synergy among government, industry, academia and society is crucial for achieving inclusive and sustainable growth.
Prof. Tripathy reiterated that IIM Shillong’s mission—anchored in values-driven leadership, responsible management, and community engagement—resonates with the objectives of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The event featured an inspiring keynote address by Madhu Chandan, Founder and CEO of Organic Mandya, who shared his journey of transforming farmers into agri-entrepreneurs. He encouraged young minds to “think differently, act courageously, and pioneer ideas that challenge conventional boundaries.”
His message on community-rooted innovation and sustainability struck a strong chord with the audience.
Adding a policy dimension, Dr. Suvrokamal Dutta, Economic and Foreign Policy Expert, spoke about cultivating “Viksit Gyan” (developed knowledge) and “Viksit Soch” (progressive thought) as essential pillars of nation-building.
He said that achieving Viksit Bharat@2047 depends on fostering an Atma Nirbhar Bharat, a self-reliant India driven by indigenous innovation and intellectual advancement.
Two thematic panel discussions further deepened the dialogue on innovation-led and inclusive growth.
The first panel, ‘CSR: Identifying Key Focus Areas for Community–Industry Partnerships for Inclusive Innovation’, moderated by Prof. Rohit Dwivedi, explored CSR as a catalyst for collaboration among academia, industry and communities. The discussion highlighted that CSR initiatives aligned with community priorities can drive inclusive innovation and strengthen responsible business practices.
The second panel, ‘Vision North East – Driving Economic Competitiveness through People and Communities’, moderated by Prof. Sanjeeb Kakoty, discussed how the Northeast can harness its unique strengths—human talent, natural resources, and cultural diversity—to build a sustainable, innovation-driven economy.
A series of talk sessions added depth to the discussions.
The event concluded with the ‘Emerging Ideas Award’ ceremony, recognising outstanding entrepreneurial ideas that showcased creativity, sustainability and social impact. The top three entries were honoured with trophies and certificates.
