Sambalpur, Oct 2: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday attended the 11th Foundation Day of Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Sambalpur in Odisha, and urged the students and faculty to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and practical learning. He emphasized the institute’s role in shaping job creators and contributing to the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (developed India).

Pleased to address young graduates, faculty members, master weavers, and people from diverse backgrounds at the 11th Foundation Day celebration of @IIM_Sambalpur. Congratulate the IIM Sambalpur family on this momentous occasion.

Institutions like IIM Sambalpur must inspire new… pic.twitter.com/JOOwiwDQ3C

— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) October 2, 2025

A Call for Innovation and Excellence

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Pradhan congratulated the IIM Sambalpur community and urged academic institutions to break away from conventional norms. “Institutions like IIM Sambalpur must inspire new entrepreneurs and innovators and also nurture job creators,” he said. He stressed the need for practical learning, hands-on skills, and preparing students to navigate both Indian and global markets.

Cultural and Regional Significance

The Minister highlighted Sambalpur’s rich cultural heritage, referring to the blessings of Maa Samaleswari and the legacy of freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai. He encouraged students to explore Sambalpur’s unique identity and present it as a model for sustainable and inclusive development.

Also Read: Dharmendra Pradhan Attends 34th Convocation of IMS Ghaziabad, Calls Youth To Be Part of Self-Reliant India

Embracing Indigenous Thought

Pradhan also praised IIM Sambalpur for incorporating the teachings of Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi into its curriculum. He noted that Bhima Bhoi’s humanitarian philosophy continues to inspire generations and urged students to create new narratives that address India’s emerging challenges and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat.

About IIM Sambalpur

Established in 2015, IIM Sambalpur is one of India’s premier management institutes. Known for its focus on innovation, inclusivity, and entrepreneurship, the institute has steadily grown into a hub for transformative education in eastern India.

IIM Sambalpur has reached a significant milestone this year, climbing 16 positions in the NIRF ranking 2025.