Vice President Radhakrishnan Calls for Management Education with Societal Focus at IIM-Ranchi Convocation
Vice President C P Radhakrishnan delivered a compelling address at the 15th convocation of the Indian Institute of Management-Ranchi (IIM-R) on Saturday, emphasizing that management education must transcend traditional boundaries of boardrooms and balance sheets. He stressed the critical need for business leaders to actively engage with society, tackle real-world challenges, and drive inclusive growth across communities.
Convocation Ceremony Honors 558 Graduates
The prestigious convocation ceremony witnessed 558 students receiving their degrees, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys. The graduating cohort included:
- 26 PhD degree recipients
- 11 PhD (Executive) degree recipients
- 251 MBA graduates from the 2024-26 batch
- 62 MBA HRM graduates
- 50 MBA BA graduates
- 50 MBA (Executive) graduates
- 73 IPM (BBA+MBA) graduates from the 2021-26 batch
- 35 IPM (BBA) graduates from the 2022-25 batch
Radhakrishnan's Message on Success and Social Responsibility
In his address to the graduating class, the Vice President shared profound insights about the nature of success and professional dedication. "Hard work, sincerity and devotion may not bring results in the expected way tomorrow, but I am sure that when it comes it would be more than expectation," Radhakrishnan told the assembled students and faculty.
He further elaborated on the true essence of achievement, stating, "Students should always remember that the true measure of success lies not in what one accumulates, but in what one gives back to society." This perspective underscores a fundamental shift toward value-based leadership in contemporary management education.
Strong Warning Against Drug Abuse
The Vice President issued a stern warning to the graduates about the dangers of substance abuse. He urged them to maintain distance from drugs and actively prevent their friends and relatives from consuming them, highlighting how such habits could completely destroy an individual's life and potential.
Jharkhand's Significance and Infrastructure Concerns
Radhakrishnan reflected on Jharkhand's special significance in his career trajectory, noting that both he and President Droupadi Murmu were elevated to the country's top constitutional positions after serving as governors of the state. He served as Jharkhand's governor from February 2023 to July 2024 before his appointment as Maharashtra governor.
Addressing practical concerns, the Vice President urged state Urban Development Minister Sudivya Kumar to prioritize the construction of an elevated approach road to IIM-Ranchi, citing the current road's improper condition as a significant infrastructure challenge requiring immediate attention.
Distinguished Gathering and Historical Connection
The convocation ceremony was attended by several prominent dignitaries including Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, and Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, underscoring the event's national importance.
Following the convocation, Radhakrishnan visited Ulihatu in Khunti district, the birthplace of tribal icon Birsa Munda, where he paid heartfelt tributes to the revered freedom fighter. He fondly recalled visiting Ulihatu on his very first day after being sworn in as governor and took time to interact with Birsa Munda's descendants, strengthening his connection with Jharkhand's rich cultural heritage.
The Vice President's comprehensive address at IIM-Ranchi's convocation establishes a clear vision for the future of management education in India—one that balances commercial excellence with profound social responsibility and community engagement.
