Raipur: The Indian Institute of Management Raipur (IIM Raipur) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre for Studies on Holistic Development (CSHD), Raipur. The partnership aims to promote collaboration in research, training, outreach, and academic engagement.The MoU was signed by Professor Ram Kumar Kakani, Director, IIM Raipur, and Satish Gokul Panda, Secretary, CSHD. It establishes a framework for joint efforts in areas such as development economics, governance, sustainability, and rural entrepreneurship. The collaboration will also focus on interdisciplinary research, leadership development, and policy initiatives.Key areas of cooperation include joint research projects, policy briefs, and working papers.

The institutions will also conduct field-based studies and regional case research. Other initiatives involve training programmes and leadership workshops for youth and administrators, alongside mentorship for student-led social impact initiatives and startups. The partnership will also facilitate co-hosting seminars, conferences, and policy dialogues, expert participation in joint programmes, and curriculum inputs, besides providing access to academic and data resources for mutual benefit.

Professor Kakani said The partnership with CSHD is a purposeful step towards connecting academic excellence with grassroots realities. He added that IIM Raipur believes management education must go beyond classrooms and contribute meaningfully to society. This collaboration will allow them to co-create knowledge, develop socially responsive leaders, and support community-driven change. He stated that together, they aim to foster a development model that is locally grounded, research-informed, and nationally relevant.This strategic partnership reinforces IIM Raipur's commitment to regional development, policy innovation, and academic excellence, aligning with national priorities and local needs.