IIM Indore conducts KHOJ workshop for 80 investigative officers

This initiative is an extension of a collaborative effort between IIM Indore and the Indore Police Commissionerate, which began with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in July 2023. The initial project focused on investigating the root causes behind the disappearance of minors, particularly girls aged 13-17 from marginalized socio-economic backgrounds.

Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore, in collaboration with the Indore Police Commissionerate, hosted a specialized training workshop titled KHOJ (Knowledge, Hope, Outreach & Justice). The event, inaugurated by IIM Indore’s Director Professor Himanshu Rai, was designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of 80 investigative officers (IOs) in tackling the critical issue of missing minors. Notable attendees included Shri Manoj Kumar Srivastava, IPS, Additional Police Commissioner (Crime & Headquarters), and Shri Jagdish Dawar, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Headquarters).

Building on a Previous Partnership

This initiative is an extension of a collaborative effort between IIM Indore and the Indore Police Commissionerate, which began with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in July 2023. The initial project focused on investigating the root causes behind the disappearance of minors, particularly girls aged 13-17 from marginalized socio-economic backgrounds. IIM Indore’s research team, led by Professor Himanshu Rai, Professor Shruti Tewari, Professor Shivani Sharma, and  Naveen Krishna Rai, developed comprehensive recommendations aimed at improving preventive measures, recovery efforts, and support for rehabilitation.

Purpose and Goals of the KHOJ Workshop

The KHOJ workshop was specifically tailored to address the recommendations outlined in IIM Indore’s report on missing minors. The training provided investigative officers with insights into psycho-social triggers, preventive strategies, and best practices for recovery and rehabilitation. The workshop emphasized case-based learning, community outreach, and adherence to legal protocols.

Professor Rai highlighted the importance of the workshop, stating, “The KHOJ workshop is an extension of our shared responsibility towards society. Our research-based recommendations have significantly aided the police in recovering minors. This workshop is crucial for enhancing the capabilities of investigative officers in handling such sensitive cases.” He introduced the KHOJ framework, which encompasses Knowledge, Hope, Outreach, and Justice, and urged officers to embrace innovation and focus on making a meaningful impact.

Acknowledgments and Impact

Srivastava praised IIM Indore and Professor Rai for their leadership and commitment. “It is an honor to be here at IIM Indore. Professor Rai’s leadership has contributed to numerous impactful initiatives. Today’s workshop is not just about learning but about implementing these lessons in real life,” he said. He emphasized the successful partnership between IIM Indore and the Indore Police, noting the high recovery rate for missing minors in the city and the goal of building on this success.

Insights and Training Methods

The workshop shared valuable insights from IIM Indore’s research, including statistical data and case studies that illuminate common causes and consequences of minor disappearances. It also aimed to inspire officers with success stories and provide strategies that have led to the safe recovery of minors. The training covered community engagement, communication techniques, legal rights of minors and their families, and proper reporting and investigation protocols.

Hands-On Learning and Future Outlook

Participants engaged in hands-on learning through detailed case studies based on real-life incidents. These case studies helped officers understand the psycho-social triggers behind missing cases and improve their interaction with victims’ families. Professor Rai stressed that the goal of the KHOJ workshop is to create awareness that missing minors are not only a legal issue but also a social and psychological one. He concluded, “This training will significantly improve how these cases are handled moving forward.”

Commitment to Social Responsibility

IIM Indore’s KHOJ workshop exemplifies the institute’s commitment to extending academic insights beyond the classroom to address societal challenges. The collaboration with the Indore Police Commissionerate underscores the critical role academic institutions play in solving pressing social issues.

For more information on IIM Indore’s initiatives and future workshops, visit the [IIM Indore website](https://www.iimidr.ac.in).

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