Dalmia Bharat CEO to IIM Vizag Students: Don’t Be Afraid to Start Small

Puneet Yadu Dalmia, managing director and CEO of Dalmia Bharat Group, and Chairman of Board of Governors, IIM Raipur, was the chief guest during the ninth convocation of IIM Visakhapatnam conducted on Saturday. While addressing the graduating class, Puneet discussed his perspectives on entrepreneurship with a focus on the need for agility and flexibility rather than the size of business 

“The ability to move fast and innovate is what differentiates successful businesses. So don't let the scale of others discourage you," he added. He also pointed out that India is at a historic point, naming it "India's century" and emphasizing the need for a well-developed entrepreneurial ecosystem. He pointed out that entrepreneurship is less risky now compared to the past “But please, be human. Many people contribute to your success, and as responsible citizens, we must give back to society.” says Puneet while sharing his entrepreneurial journey. 

He highlighted India's phenomenal success over the last 75 years, despite centuries of bondage, and to a large extent credited it to an overwhelming sense of seva (selfless service). Dalmia urged students to follow this tradition of compassion and service, especially as seen in the Covid-19 years, and to give back to society wherever they may go. 

Hari.S.Bhartia, Founder of the Jubilant Bhartia Group and Chairperson of the Board of Governors of IIM Visakhapatnam, also opined at the function. He spoke about his association with IIM and how, unlike anticipated the board has been accorded outstanding autonomy although the institute is government funded. “In the past, initial funding for any business came from families. But today, the entrepreneurial ecosystem is thriving. If you have the right idea, there are people who will chase you to provide seed capital or venture funding," said Bhartia. 

The Director of IIM Visakhapatnam, Prof. M Chandrasekhar, reflected on the institution's decade-long journey, emphasized the mission of producing socially responsible management professionals. "The Institute is now a preferred knowledge hub for education and entrepreneurship," he said, and added that the Post Graduate Programme (PGP) student strength grew from 50 students in 2015 to nearly 350 students now. Further, he stated, 40% of the students are women, showcasing the institution's commitment to diversity and inclusion. During the graduation ceremony, more than 370 students were presented with their MBA certificates. 

IIM Visakhapatnam Director Prof. M Chandrasekhar looked back over the last decade for the institution of IIM Visakhapatnam, highlighting the mission of graduating socially responsible management professionals. “The institution has become a preferred knowledge hub for education and entrepreneurship, making it a sought-after destination for practicing professionals from both the public and private sectors.” says M Chandrasekhar. 

He added that the Post Graduate Programme (PGP) student strength has increased from around 50 in 2015 to 7 times more now. “About 40% of the students are women. This reflects the institution's commitment to diversity and inclusion. “He stated. 

 During the graduation ceremony, over 370 students received their MBA certificates. The institute awarded gold medals, awards, and certificates to MBA and PhD students, including Muskan Sharma, Rahul Pradeep, Vrund Shah Bhavinkumar, Nandan Kumar Singh, and Kriti Jangir.