IIM Ranchi hosts Social Impact conference

PINAKI MAJUMDAR

Ranchi, Feb 17: IIM Ranchi hosted the first edition of the Social Impact Conference 2025, centred around the theme

The conference brought together thought leaders, social entrepreneurs, and change-makers to discuss the evolving role of values in a rapidly transforming world. Key themes explored included inquiry, harmony, sustainability, compassion, resilience, non-violence, innovation, and trusteeship, fostering meaningful conversations and inspiring action.

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The event began with a vibrant cultural performance, setting the tone for a day dedicated to values and impactful discussions.

Welcoming Remarks

Prof. Gaurav Manohar Marathe, Chairperson of the Social and Environmental Development Centre (SEDC) at IIM Ranchi, welcomed the audience by emphasizing the need for a cultural and human touch in an era dominated by artificial intelligence and climate change. He shared insights into the journey of organizing the conference, acknowledging the challenges faced and the collective effort that made it possible.

Steffani Bryant, EVP & Chief Accreditation Officer, MD, Americas, AACSB, addressed the gathering via a video message. She highlighted the significance of ethical leadership and the role of business education in preparing future leaders to navigate AI-driven transformations while ensuring technology serves humanity rather than replacing it.

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Prof. Deepak Kumar Srivastava, Director of IIM Ranchi, expressed his joy in hosting the conference’s first edition. He underscored the importance of human connections and responsible leadership, hoping that similar initiatives gain momentum across institutions. He also introduced the concept of ‘happiness corners’ on campus to encourage meaningful interactions and holistic development.

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Key Speaker Sessions

The conference proceeded with inspiring speeches from value incubators, starting with:

• Utsow Pradhan, social entrepreneur, environmental activist, and founder of TIEEDI Forest Garden, who addressed the urgency of the climate crisis. He introduced the concept of ‘Gross Natural Abundance’ as a measure of true sustainability and emphasized the need to shift from degenerative to regenerative growth, ensuring harmony between human activity and nature.
• Lakshmi Menon, designer-turned-social entrepreneur and Governing Council Member of NIF, shared her journey of accidental entrepreneurship. She spoke about her initiatives, including Chekutty dolls, plantable pens, and sustainable mattresses made from PPE scraps. Her work focuses on upcycling and empowering marginalized communities, demonstrating how innovation can drive social impact.
• Dr. Kaustubh Deshpande, a PhD graduate from the University of Maryland, provided a philosophical perspective on inquiry. He explored connections between rational analysis and existential introspection, discussing the quantum vacuum and the power of belief, encouraging a deeper understanding of self and meaning in an ever-evolving world.
• Mr. Pratul Jain, founder of Backpack with Prat, spoke about redefining success and materialism. He emphasized the importance of free-share spaces, fostering community-driven interactions, and promoting a lifestyle that aligns with both nature and human well-being.
• Ms. Manasi Saxena, founder of enCOMPASSion, challenged conventional notions of non-violence, redefining it as “love in action.” She stressed the universality of human needs and the role of compassion in social change.

Closing Reflections

The conference concluded with an address by Professor Srivastava, who reflected on the impermanence of life and the philosophy of trusteeship. He urged participants to view power and wealth as responsibilities rather than possessions and to focus on building sustainable legacies through mindful consumption and ethical leadership.

The Social Impact Conference 2025 successfully set the stage for ongoing discussions on values-driven leadership and social change, marking a significant milestone in IIM Ranchi’s commitment to shaping a responsible and sustainable future.