IIM-Sirmaur is completing nearly a decade of its journey. How do you look at these 10 years of growth and institution-building?
Founding an institution is never easy. The first few years lay the foundation and determine how far an institution can grow. The older IIMs have demonstrated how the IIM brand has earned global recognition through academic excellence, research and governance. For any new institution, the first decade is crucial in building its character and identity. At IIM-Sirmaur, our journey over the past 10 years has been shaped by five key pillars: transitioning from a transit facility to a permanent state-of-the-art campus, diversifying and modernising our academic programmes, strengthening placements and industry integration, expanding our global footprint and research capabilities, and contributing to regional and social development.
What were the biggest challenges during the initial years of establishing the institute in a hill state like Himachal?
One of the biggest challenges was gaining recognition. The corporate sector generally takes time to accept and engage with a new institution. Most companies prefer to wait until an institute has established a track record of at least a decade before building long-term relationships. Another challenge was the limited awareness about Sirmaur itself. Even today, when I introduce myself as being from IIM-Sirmaur, people often ask where Sirmaur is. I still remember showing my identity card to a CISF officer at Chandigarh airport who exclaimed, “Are Sirmaur mein IIM aa gaya?” While I was pleased that he knew of Sirmaur, it also highlighted how little awareness existed about the institute despite its years of operation. Establishing the IIM-Sirmaur as a brand remains one of our biggest challenges and greater visibility in national media would certainly help.
Which achievement of IIM-Sirmaur during the last decade makes you feel most proud?
There are several. Perhaps the most visible achievement is our permanent campus at Dhoula Kuan. Spread across 210 acres amidst lush greenery and natural forests, the campus reflects traditional Himachali architectural aesthetics while incorporating world-class academic and residential infrastructure. The campus houses state-of-the-art classrooms, a fully equipped learning resource centre with advanced research databases and more than 10,000 books, modern student hostels, faculty residences, sports facilities and a comprehensive students’ activity centre. We have already initiated preparations for Phase-II expansion. Another source of pride is our faculty. We have 55 full-time faculty members, many of whom hold doctoral degrees from premier institutions such as IIMs, IITs and leading international universities. Their research contributions and academic expertise distinguish IIM-Sirmaur from many peer institutions. The institute has also introduced innovative programmes such as PGPEX-LSM in smart manufacturing in collaboration with RWTH Aachen University. Additionally, we have partnered with the Himachal Pradesh Government to train school teachers and panchayat secretaries, contributing directly to public sector capacity-building.
Artificial intelligence and automation are transforming industries. How is the institute adapting to these changes?
Technology, particularly artificial intelligence, has fundamentally transformed the way businesses operate. We must prepare students to work effectively with these technologies. We have faculty members specialising in AI who are actively engaged in research, consulting and industry projects. Students gain practical exposure through hands-on learning opportunities and live projects. We have also launched executive programmes in artificial intelligence and specialised programmes such as the executive MBA in digital transformation and analytics. Our teaching philosophy emphasises participant-centred learning through case studies, simulations, projects, role plays and experiential exercises. This approach helps students develop decision-making capabilities while adapting to emerging technologies.
Placement remains a major concern for students and parents. How have placement trends evolved over the years?
Placements continue to be a challenge for many newer IIMs, but the situation at IIM-Sirmaur has improved steadily. Over the years, we have transformed our placement process into a structured and well-recognised recruitment platform. Despite fluctuations in the global economy and hiring slowdowns in certain sectors, we have consistently maintained a 100 per cent placement record for students participating in the placement process. The average annual package for the latest graduating batch stood at approximately Rs 16 lakh. However, students must remember that placements are ultimately an outcome of their efforts over two years. Those who immerse themselves in learning, participate actively in projects and maximise opportunities rarely have to worry about placements.
How is the institute encouraging entrepreneurship among students?
Through our Entrepreneurship Cell, students receive mentorship, exposure to successful entrepreneurs and support in developing their ideas. We also offer placement holidays of up to two years for students pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. If they later choose to return to the corporate sector, they can still participate in campus placements.
How important are industry collaborations and international partnerships for the institute’s future?
Industry and academia are interdependent. Management education becomes meaningful only when it remains connected with real business challenges. We collaborate with industry through executive training, consulting assignments, research projects and case development. International partnerships are equally important because today’s managers operate in a global environment. Exposure to diverse cultures, markets and management practices is essential for preparing future leaders.
What major developments have taken place on the campus in recent years?