The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur celebrated its 10th anniversary with the inauguration of three new campus facilities – the BS Program Hostel, Rangabati Open Theatre, and Café Hub Complex – during its 11th Foundation Day. The event was attended by the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The institute marked a decade of academic excellence, innovation, and community impact.
Over the past 10 years, IIM Sambalpur has achieved significant milestones, including a steady rise in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF rankings) jumping 16 spots to 34th in 2025 and a strong emphasis on gender diversity. A total of 76 per cent women students have been admitted in the current second-year MBA batch – making it a national leader in inclusive management education, as per a statement by IIM Sambalpur.
Speaking at the ceremony, IIM Sambalpur’s director Prof Mahadeo Jaiswal highlighted 10 key achievements that defined the institute’s journey over the past decade:
1. Campus built in record time: Completed in just two years, saving Rs 35 crore from the approved budget.
2. Rising NIRF rankings: The institute climbed 16 spots in 2025 to rank 34th among management institutions – one of the biggest upward jumps in the year.
3. AI-enabled classrooms: First in the world to integrate Artificial Intelligence-powered teaching modules, transforming faculty roles into active learning facilitators.
4. Gender diversity championed: Strong representation of women in MBA cohorts, with 76 per cent female students in the current second-year batch.
5. On track for Triple Crown accreditation: Progressing towards AACSB, BGA/AMBA, and EFMD/EQUIS global accreditations.
6. Empowering master weavers: Mentored 80 weavers through training programs, helping them showcase products globally.
7. Diversified academic programs: Expansion of offerings with BS and Executive MBA programs.
8. Enhanced campus life: Creation of cultural, social, and recreational spaces like the Rangabati Open Theatre and Café Hub Complex.
9. Research and case study focus: Developing India-relevant management case studies and thought leadership initiatives.
10. Community engagement and sustainability: Promoting regional development and eco-friendly campus practices.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan applauded the institute’s achievements and its unique initiatives, especially in supporting local artisans. He also called for the development of a case study on Sambalpur’s rich cultural heritage.
Outstanding students from the MBA 2024–26 batch were felicitated with awards of Rs 1 lakh each, and certificates were presented to master weavers for their contributions.
As IIM Sambalpur enters its second decade, the institute aims to strengthen academic programmes, pursue global recognition, and continue fostering diverse, inclusive, and transformative learning experiences, the institute added.