The Indian Institute of Management Nagpur has officially welcomed the inaugural cohort of its Blended MBA Programme for Working Professionals, marking a significant step in expanding its global footprint. The first batch includes 83 professionals from 20 Indian states and several international locations, reflecting growing worldwide interest in the institute’s industry-aligned offerings.
Serving as Chief Guest, Dr. N. Muthukumar highlighted the transformative impact of management education. Drawing from his own journey, he noted that an MBA reshapes leadership perspectives, particularly in how leaders engage with and uplift their teams. He emphasised that adaptability is essential in today’s corporate landscape—those who embrace change grow, while resistance can limit progress.
The event was chaired by Dr. Bhimaraya Metri, with Mr. Nilabha Nag as Guest of Honour. Prof. Debarun Chakraborty presented a comprehensive overview of the programme’s structure and design.
Addressing the cohort, Mr. Nilabha Nag underscored the importance of team synergy and value-driven leadership. In a rapidly evolving technological environment, he encouraged participants to remain adaptable while staying grounded in empathy and family values, advising them to “think human, be human.”
In his presidential address, Dr. Bhimaraya Metri described the programme as a milestone in IIM Nagpur’s global expansion through innovation. He highlighted the institute’s focus on digital learning, cybersecurity, and energy management, and expressed confidence that India’s rise as a global economic force will require future-ready leaders. He added that the Blended MBA would play a key role in shaping tomorrow’s business ecosystem.
Presenting the batch profile, Prof. Rakesh Gupta shared that 373 applications were received, including several from international candidates. After a rigorous selection process involving assessments and interviews, 83 candidates were admitted. The cohort comprises 64 men and 19 women, with an average age of 31 years and around seven years of professional experience.
Participants come from diverse sectors such as IT, manufacturing, logistics, energy, consulting, healthcare, education, oil and gas, defence, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, AI, agriculture, and food and beverages. Leading organisations represented include Tata Consultancy Services, Cognizant, PolicyBazaar, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited.
Designed to combine digital learning with world-class management education, the programme enables working professionals to strengthen their leadership capabilities without interrupting their careers. The launch reaffirms IIM Nagpur’s commitment to developing globally competent leaders poised to shape India’s economic and corporate future.
