IIM Bodh Gaya concludes 5-Day MDP for Panchayati Raj Representatives in Jharkhand

This comprehensive programme, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, focused on strengthening leadership and governance capabilities, aiming to drive impactful and sustainable rural development. The MDP, held in two sessions across February, provided a valuable learning experience for a total of 113 PRI representatives.

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bodh Gaya recently concluded a five-day Management Development Programme (MDP) designed for 47 elected representatives from Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in Jharkhand. This comprehensive programme, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, focused on strengthening leadership and governance capabilities, aiming to drive impactful and sustainable rural development. The MDP, held in two sessions across February, provided a valuable learning experience for a total of 113 PRI representatives.

Empowering Local Leadership for Sustainable Development

The programme kicked off with an opening session that brought together approximately 66 elected representatives from different Gram Panchayats across Jharkhand. The inaugural session was graced by Chhavi Rajawat, India’s first Sarpanch with an MBA, who is renowned for her advocacy of social change and good governance. Dr. Vinita Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, delivered the opening remarks, underscoring the institute’s continuous efforts to foster leadership excellence and strengthen public governance across rural areas.

Curriculum Focused on Governance, Resource Management, and Technology Integration

The MDP curriculum addressed several key aspects of governance and resource management, including:

• Financial management and resource allocation
• Self-sourced revenue generation
• Digital governance and the role of AI/ML applications in Panchayati Raj
• Sustainable rural development practices

Participants were equipped with critical skills necessary to develop effective policies, optimise local resources, and drive transformative rural initiatives that benefit communities in the long run.

Special Session on Personal Effectiveness and Women’s Empowerment

A highlight of the programme was a session on Personal Effectiveness delivered by Dr. Sahay, which explored the important roles of women and youth in rural development. Dr. Sahay emphasized the importance of skill development workshops for women, which foster financial independence, social engagement, and economic inclusion. These workshops empower rural communities, creating a ripple effect that promotes self-reliance and inclusive rural economies.

Leadership from Experienced Academicians

The programme was meticulously coordinated by Prof. Jitendra Yadav and Prof. Teena Bharti, both experienced academicians in governance and management training. Their leadership ensured that the curriculum was practical, actionable, and integrated contemporary governance practices and technology-driven solutions to address rural challenges effectively.

IIM Bodh Gaya’s Commitment to Capacity Building in Public Governance

IIM Bodh Gaya has long been committed to capacity building in the realm of public governance. The institute has previously conducted training programs for various government bodies, such as the Water Resource Department, State Health Society, Bihar Police Academy, and Department of Industries. This dedication to fostering leadership and empowering professionals in public governance reflects IIM Bodh Gaya’s broader educational goals.

Remarkable Achievement in NIRF 2024

IIM Bodh Gaya’s growing reputation in leadership development is further exemplified by its 33rd place ranking in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024, a remarkable improvement of 40 ranks since 2022. Notably, IIM Bodh Gaya remains the only management institute from Bihar ranked among India’s top 50 management institutes.

Strengthening Governance for Nation-Building

By successfully concluding this MDP, IIM Bodh Gaya has reaffirmed its position as a key player in bridging the gap between academia and public governance. Through this initiative, the institute continues to empower elected representatives with the essential skills in leadership, strategic decision-making, and policy implementation that are critical for the nation-building process.

IIM Bodh Gaya’s commitment to empowering rural leaders and its role in driving sustainable development will have a lasting impact on governance practices in India’s rural areas.

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