Uttarakhand Governor Inaugurates “Uttarakhand Cell” at IIM Kashipur, Collaborates with GB Pant University to Boost Agricultural Development

Kashipur : Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kashipur proudly hosted the Hon’ble Governor of Uttarakhand, Sri Lt Gen Gurmeet Singh (Retd), for the inauguration of the ‘Uttarakhand Cell’ on its campus. The Governor delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the significance of willpower, self-control, and self-discipline as key success mantras for India’s youth.

During his speech, the Hon’ble Governor highlighted the pivotal role young minds play as the growth engine of the Indian economy. He underscored that the nation currently boasts 116 unicorns—a testament to the determination and dedication of its young entrepreneurs. “It is youth who is working as a growth engine for the Indian economy and resulting in a vibrant startup- ecosystem.” the Governor said. He called on the next generation to embrace entrepreneurship, transitioning from job-seekers to employment creators. In promoting a culture of innovation, the Governor advised youth to focus on “value addition” and explore the vast opportunities available in India’s economy. He mentioned that the Ghee of the Badri cow is being sold at a price of Rs. Sixty seven thousand per kilogram.  “This is one example, and our youth needs to find out such opportunities and realize the same in this vibrant economy. Such opportunities can be identified by questioning as “question is mother of wisdom”, he further added.

Our economy has suffered due to policy adopted by “Divide and Rule” by the Britishers. This is the right time to work on the principles of integration, oneness and join-ness. Artificial intelligence is the need of the hour but our students should be looking for ‘absolute intelligence’, which can be achieved through soul and cosmic communication. Growth and development are two aspects and our youth should target on the same. As far as economy of our host state “Uttarakhand” is concerned, focus on three sectors i.e. wellness, horticulture and spiritual tourism will pave the way.

Sri ManMohan Singh Chauhan, Vice Chancellor of Gobind Ballabh Pant Agiculture and Technical University, Pantnagar, addressed the gathering and mentioned the top priority for development of state, which is focused on Farmer Welfare and women empowerment. He then stated, “These two were also targets of our governor. On this aspect, this university is working on increasing honey production. Our production capacity of three thousands ton is increased to twelve thousands ton and it is likely that we will further increase it to forty thousand tons in short period. International collaboration is already done for such production enhancement in our region. Our aim is to be world leader in ‘honey production’. MoU with IIM Kashipur will help us in welfare of society and community of the state and the nation.”

Sri Dewang Singh Rawat, Vice- Chancellor, Kumaon University,   expressed his happiness over “MoU with IIM Kashipur” and mentioned that this will be source of motivation to our students and faculty. He further added “We are also aiming to contribute towards development of our state and nation in our own capacity. During 17th century, the GDP of our nation used to be 25% of the world economy. At present time, we are contributing to the extent of eight percent and leaping forward for the fourth largest economy of the world. This will be done with the contribution from tech-savvy youth.”

Sri Onkar Singh, Vice-chancellor of Uttarakhand Technical University, has offered IIM Kashipur to use their premises for functioning of Dehradun campus till IIM has its own campus constructed in Dehradun. He mentioned that “In the history of 19 years of this university, this happens to be a golden moment, and ‘MoU with IIM’ will benefit our 500 faculties and 2000 students. Our MBA program will be improved with the collaboration of IIM Kashipur.  Our education system will be more vibrant. Collaboration is expected for executive education, advisory services, MOOCS and enhancing skills.”

Professor Somnath Chakraborti, Director -in-charge, IIM Kashipur, mentioned the focus of the institute on regional development, the welfare of people, ayurveda, home-stay campaign, and vibrant villages. The management principles will be applied to solve the problem of ghost villages and improvement of SHGs.

The institute will make a significant contribution towards marketing the produce of the state and establishing “Uttarakhand as Brand”. The logistic problem will also be solved to a larger extent in collaboration with the state government.

Dr. Sandeep Singh, Chairperson-in – –charge, Board of Governors, IIM Kashipur, informed about various initiatives towards the development of the local economy. The roadmap for making further contributions through “Uttarakhand Cell” was also briefed.

The effort made by Prof. Abhradeep Maiti, Prof. Kunal, and Prof Sonmnath Chakraborti towards the “Uttarakhand Cell” was highlighted by the Governor of Uttarakhand. He also mentioned his experience of conceiving the idea and realizing the same during three meetings taken place in his office. He played a crucial role in the formation of this cell.  There will be a nominee of Uttarakhand state in this cell.