Shillong, Oct 26: IIM Shillong hosted HT – Ideas Matter Most under the theme “Together Towards India@2047: Community–Industry Synergy for Innovation and Growth.” The event brought together policymakers, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and academicians to deliberate on innovation, community engagement, and India’s transformative journey toward Viksit Bharat 2047.
Delivering the Inaugural Address, Prof. Naliniprava Tripathy, Director (I/C), IIM Shillong, emphasized that India’s development vision calls for collective effort and shared responsibility. She noted that synergy among government, industry, academia, and society is essential 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 deeply with the objectives of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The inaugural session was followed by an inspiring keynote talk by Madhu Chandan, Founder and CEO of Organic Mandya, who shared his entrepreneurial journey and the transformation of farmers into agri-entrepreneurs. He encouraged young minds to “think differently, act courageously, and pioneer ideas that challenge conventional boundaries.” His message of community-rooted innovation and sustainability resonated strongly with the audience.
Adding a policy and intellectual dimension, Dr. Suvrokamal Dutta, Economic and Foreign Policy Expert, spoke on the significance of cultivating “Viksit Gyan” (developed knowledge) and “Viksit Sooch” (progressive thought) as key pillars of nation-building. He emphasized that achieving Viksit Bharat@2047 depends on fostering Atma Nirbhar Bharat—a self-reliant India powered by indigenous innovation, intellectual advancement, and global engagement.
The event featured two thematic panel discussions that deepened the dialogue on innovation-led and inclusive growth.
The first panel, “CSR: Identifying Key Focus Areas for Community–Industry Partnerships for Inclusive Innovation,” was moderated by Prof. Rohit Dwivedi. The session explored CSR as a catalyst for collaboration between academia, industry, and communities. The panel comprised Ankur Chaturvedi (ESG Lead, Vice President & Chief of Sustainability, Emami Limited), Kasturika S (Director – Skill and Campus Engagement, Wipro Limited), Sita Baruah (Senior General Manager – CSR, Indian Oil Corporation Limited), and Mintu Handique (Chief General Manager, Numaligarh Refinery Limited). The discussion emphasized that CSR initiatives, when aligned with community priorities and local needs, can drive inclusive innovation while reinforcing responsible business practices.
The second panel, “Vision North East – Driving Economic Competitiveness through People and Communities,” was moderated by Prof. Sanjeeb Kakoty. The panel featured P. Narayana Bhatta (CEO, Latlong ai), Mintu Handique (Chief General Manager, Numaligarh Refinery Limited), Ramen Lal Baishya (Deputy Director, Tea Board of India), and Himanshu Shekhar (Senior Editor, NDTV). The discussion explored how the Northeast region can leverage its unique strengths—human talent, natural resources, and cultural diversity—to build a sustainable and innovation-driven economy. Speakers emphasized that empowering local communities, developing skills, and fostering entrepreneurship are essential to unlocking the region’s potential and advancing India’s broader growth agenda.
The event concluded with the “Emerging Ideas Award” Ceremony, celebrating outstanding entrepreneurial ideas that demonstrated creativity, sustainability, and social impact. The top three entries were recognized with trophies and certificates for their vision and feasibility. The awards symbolized the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity that defines the Ideas Matter Most initiative.
