Founding MBA batch of PIMR Deemed-to-be University urged to lead with integrity, innovation and purpose

Indore: Marking a defining milestone in its academic journey, the Prestige Institute of Management and Research (PIMR), Deemed-to-be University, welcomed its first postgraduate MBA cohort at the 33rd Invocation Ceremony, with eminent academicians, industry leaders and distinguished alumni inspiring students to embrace ethical leadership, innovation and lifelong learning.
Addressing the newly admitted MBA students, Dr Davish Jain, Chancellor, PIMR Deemed-to-be University, described them as the “founding generation of a new era”, entrusted with shaping the institution’s identity, culture and legacy in its new phase of growth.
Urging students to pursue excellence rather than mere success, Dr Jain said that while Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies are rapidly transforming industries, enduring human values such as integrity, discipline, curiosity, empathy, credibility and leadership will continue to distinguish outstanding professionals. He emphasised that higher education should nurture not only successful careers but also responsible citizens committed to nation-building, adding that the first MBA batch would lay the foundation for the university’s future.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Vijay Shukla, senior corporate leader, described the ceremony as “the beginning of a transformation.” He said the students were embarking on a journey that could shape the country’s next generation of CEOs, entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Highlighting India’s rise as the world’s fifth-largest economy and its ambition to become the third largest by 2031, Dr Shukla said sectors such as advanced manufacturing and defence production would create unprecedented opportunities for young professionals. Referring to the VUCA business environment—Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity—he urged students to embrace Artificial Intelligence, automation, data-driven decision-making and global perspectives while continuously strengthening their attitude, skills and knowledge. He encouraged them to dream big, remain curious, stay humble, pursue self-discovery and never stop believing in their potential. In recognition of his contribution to media leadership, Dr Shukla was presented the PIMR Visionary Media Leadership Award.
Addressing the gathering, Rajnish Jain, Senior Principal Partner, Nuvama Private Limited, said that true success is measured not merely by personal achievements but by the value one creates for others. Encouraging students to remain curious and resilient, he observed that every failure offers an opportunity to learn and grow. Referring to Indore’s emergence as a preferred destination for Global Capability Centres (GCCs), he said the city offers exceptional career opportunities while maintaining an enviable work-life balance. He urged students to embrace simplicity, authenticity and continuous self-improvement.
Vidya Rao, Senior Brand Planning Strategist, FCB Ulka, Bengaluru, and a distinguished PIMR alumna, shared ten life lessons drawn from her professional journey. She encouraged students to cultivate gratitude, move beyond their comfort zones and actively participate in academic, cultural and extracurricular activities. Emphasising that classroom learning alone is not sufficient, she urged students to strengthen their communication and negotiation skills, improve their command of English, become keen observers and remain resilient in the face of challenges. “Version 1.0 will not survive,” she remarked, advising students to continually upgrade, update and upskill themselves while building meaningful professional relationships.
She was conferred with the PIMR Eminent Alumnus Award in recognition of her outstanding achievements in the field of brand strategy and communication.
A symbolic highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of ‘Deeksharambh’ badges to all newly admitted MBA students by the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, directors and distinguished guests, signifying their formal induction into the PIMR academic community.
The ceremony also witnessed the release of “Swagat 2026,” the official student handbook, designed to serve as a comprehensive guide throughout the students’ academic journey.
Earlier, welcoming the gathering, Vice-Chancellor Dr S. S. Bhakar described the academic session as a historic milestone following PIMR’s elevation to the status of a Deemed-to-be University. The ceremony was also addressed by Dr Deepak Jarolia, Director, School of Management, and Dr Rajeev Raghuvanshi, Director (Admissions).
Nearly 1,000 newly admitted MBA students, along with faculty members and senior administrators, attended the ceremony. Among those present were Dr Anil Bajpai, Director, PIMR Group of Institutions; Dr Col S. Raman Iyer; Dr Manoj Kumar Deshpandey, Senior Director, Prestige Institute of Engineering Management and Research; and Dr Sanjeev Patni, CEO, AIC Prestige Inspire Foundation.