Sambalpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants all of us to take the country to the next level through the process of ‘reform’, ‘perform’ and ‘transform, Dr P K Mishra, principal secretary to the Prime Minister, said during his address at the 9th Convocation of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Sambalpur, on Saturday.
According to him, the vision of a $5 trillion economy is not just about a DGP figure. It involves the elevation of millions from poverty, development of world-class infrastructure, energy security and digital empowerment, he said. Taking inspiration from PM Modi’s vision of Amrit Kaal, everyone will be playing a critical role in transforming India into a developed nation by 2047, he said.
Dr Mishra was speaking on the theme: “Opportunities and Challenges in the Current Geopolitical and Economic Context”.
“We are living in an interesting and challenging time as the global economy is at a critical juncture, facing an array of complex challenges including disruptions in global supply chains, protectionist policies, heightened geopolitical tensions, and changing global trade patterns. While we are witnessing technological breakthroughs at a pace never seen before, supply chains are being reimagined and trade relationships being redefined. Climate and sustainability are central to every conversation and amidst this churning, one thing is clear – the future will not just be inherited, it will be created,” he said.
Dr Mishra deliberated on India’s strengths. While a growing economy, young population, expanding infrastructure, and technological advancement form our internal strength; India’s geopolitical influence, strategic partnerships, diaspora communities and soft power in terms of global influence, form the external core, he said.
“With over 100 unicorns, we are the third-largest start-up ecosystem in the world. Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes across sectors such as electronics, pharma, and solar are driving manufacturing resurgence and opening up exciting roles in operations, logistics, supply chain strategy, and manufacturing excellence. With over 800 million internet users, the economy is booming. AI, Blockchain and Industry 4.0 are no longer buzzwords – they are reality,” he said.
Touching upon the aspects of National Green Hydrogen Mission and India’s endeavour as co-founder of the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuel Alliance, he said that clean technology, green finance, EVs, carbon trading, and circular economy practices will all demand trained, innovative minds – and that is where skill sets would play a pivotal role.
“With increasing confidence in “Made in India”, global markets are more accessible than ever before. India needs to create 8-10 million quality jobs annually and therein lies the alignment between skills and industry needs. Through the Digital India and Skill India programmes, champions in the private sector can help impart digital skills to the underprivileged or mentor small businesses,” Dr Mishra added.
Pointing to the fact that IIM Sambalpur has earned a reputation of excellence in management education with its core values of innovation, integrity and inclusivity, he referred to the Entrepreneurship Development Program, specifically designed for the Master Weavers of western Odisha.
“IIM Sambalpur not only has world-class infrastructure, but is also situated at the core of our country’s history and heritage that involves the presiding Goddess of the area, Ma Samaleshwari, and the land of Veer Surendra Sai, who fought against colonial rule much before the 1857 War of Independence,” he said.
He urged students to enumerate leaders who think beyond profits and positions and turn into managers who can manage not only businesses but also values, diversity and change.
