Sambalpur, 14^th December 2020.

With a string of achievements already in its repertoire, IIM Sambalpur, one of the most promising and dynamic management institutions among the new generation IIMs of the country, has successfully conducted its very first TEDx session within 5 years of its commencement. The theme for TEDxIIM Sambalpur 2020 was “Explore the Unexplored”. True to its theme, the virtual session saw 10 distinguished speakers who have all achieved extraordinary feats share their life story in front of the audience. The session began with an inaugural ceremony which was graced by Chief Guest Padma Shri T. V. Mohandas Pai, Chairman and Co-Founder, Aarin Capital, Chairman of Manipal Global Education, a member of the Boards of the NSE India.  The inaugural programme also witnessed a welcome address by Prof Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur.

While delivering the welcome address, Prof Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said, “It is indeed a proud moment for the youngest IIM to be able to host such a prestigious event in such short time. The entire credit for this goes out to the team of IIM Sambalpur, especially our students and faculty members. IIM Sambalpur was set up in the year 2015 by the Government of India and it has been our vision to nurture responsible leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset with 3 core values of Inclusion, Innovation and Integrity. The strategic theme “Explore the Unexplored” is based on 3Ds of Digitalization, Decarbonization and Democratisation of business, hence, we would like to align ourselves with this ideal which is very complimentary and contemporary.”

He further added, “IIM Sambalpur has already started experimenting and we want to explore the whole entrepreneurial journey within the classroom with our students and faculty. We want to integrate learning, research and application of that research within the classroom. IIM Sambalpur has been successful in bringing innovation in learning with Flipped classrooms and have been pioneers in the country in digital learning by introducing online proctored exams. We have also shown inclusiveness with the best gender diversity among our peers. IIM Sambalpur aspires to create a new world which is more sustainable, more inclusive and more innovative in alignment with our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision and efforts. India has a bright future if our younger generation creates new jobs, new opportunities, new organizations that are based on innovation. Only then can we make our labour-based economy into an IPR economy and that should be our contribution.”

Chief Guest Padma Shri T.V. Mohandas Pai, Chairman of Aarin Capital, Chairman of Manipal Global Education, a member of the Boards of the NSE India, added, “When we think of a management institute, we primarily think of an institute that teaches its students how to run enterprises. In order to run an enterprise, we need processes, management theories, marketing strategies and an art of managing people in a structured manner. But we are living in a world where all this is coming to an end. We are living at the end of the industrial revolution and beginning of a digital revolution. We are linking everyone digitally where geography becomes a casualty. We are seeing the rise of new world that is very different and is driven by change, innovation, new thinking and those who challenge the norm. So, with this Ted talk today, we can prepare the students and teach them how to face the new world.” He is a Padma Shri awardee and has a keen interest in education, health, policy, heritage conservation, philanthropy, and civic engagement.

In order to survive the challenges that one faces in the modern world, it has become a necessity to think out of the box.  Coming up with creative ways and challenging the existing norms, is what enables stand in the face of adversity. One must see challenges as opportunities and dive straight ahead in their lives. Greatness awaits only those who leap, stretch their wings and are ready to explore the unexplored. The willingness to think, discover new ways, and challenge existing standards to build a better future – shaped the theme of "Explore the Unexplored". The notable speakers for the event included Entrepreneur & Influencer Ms. Shivani Bafna, Professional Compere & Sports Presenter Ms. Reena Dsouza, Miss Scuba International 2016, Ocean Ambassador and Environmentalist Ms. Varsha Rajkhowa, Journalist, Media Academician Prof Dr. Mrinal Chatterjee, Standup comedian, Environmentalist Ms. Vasu Primlani, Founder, MBAUniverse.com and Convener, Indian Management Conclave (IMC) Mr. Amit Agnihotri, Radio Jockey Mr. Niladri Bose, Humanitarian Ms. Bhargsetu Sharma, Motorbike Enthusiast, YouTube Vlogger Mr. Bulu Patnaik, Formula 4-Racer Ms. Mira Erda

While sharing their stories, each speaker highlighted how stepping out of their comfort zone and taking up new challenges helped them become who they are today. While Entrepreneur & Influencer Ms. Shivani Bafna shared how taking the unconventional step and daring to dream big with passion helped her achieve her goals, Professional Compere & Sports Presenter Ms. Reena Dsouza revealed how being consistent about the one thing she did well helped her break the mould and make a place for herself in an otherwise male dominated world. Formula 4-Racer Ms. Mira Erda shared how never shying away from hard work made her one of India's foremost female open wheel racers. Media Academician and Journalist Prof Dr. Mrinal Chatterjee revealed how overcoming insecurities helps one to explore their possibilities. Standup comedian, Environmentalist Ms. Vasu Primlani, through an interactive session, shared how doing what one loves or falling in love with what they do helps them be great at it. Founder, MBAUniverse.com and Convener, Indian Management Conclave (IMC) Mr. Amit Agnihotri, revealed how identifying one’s passion at a young age and pursuing it helps them succeed. Radio Jockey Mr. Niladri Bose highlighted how one should not let failure defeat them rather use it as a fuel to drive ahead. Humanitarian Ms. Bhargsetu Sharma shared that observing one’s surroundings and making a difference in the society should be a leader’s goal. Motorbike Enthusiast, YouTube Vlogger Mr. Bulu Patnaik shared how solving the problems that one might face in their path is the only way to move forward. Ending the session, Miss Scuba International 2016, Ocean Ambassador and Environmentalist Ms. Varsha Rajkhowa highlighted the need to understand one’s purpose of existing and conquering it.

TEDx is a grassroots initiative, created in the spirit of TED’s overall mission to research and discover “ideas worth spreading.” TEDx events are organized globally by passionate individuals who seek to uncover new ideas and to share the latest research in their local areas that spark conversations in their communities. TEDx is an event to promote young creative talent across globe and IIM Sambalpur becoming an official licensee for the same is a rare feat.