IIM Jammu Conducts Trekking-Based Leadership Programme in Lower Himalayas for NTPC Limited Officials

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu inaugurated a unique Leadership Skills for Managers – Trekking-Based Management Development Programme (MDP) for officials of NTPC Limited in the serene environs of the Lower Himalayas. The initiative blends classroom learning with experiential trekking modules, offering participants an immersive leadership development experience amidst nature.

The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Faculty and Research, IIM Jammu. Also present were Prof. Rajesh Sikka, Co-Chairperson, Executive Education and Consultancy (EE&C), along with Programme Directors Dr. Mahesh Gadekar and Dr. Naveen Goyal.

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from 45 professionals representing NTPC’s pan-India presence, underscoring the Maharatna PSU’s continued commitment to capacity building and leadership transformation.

Addressing the participants, Prof. Jabir Ali expressed satisfaction at the continuing collaboration between IIM Jammu and NTPC. He noted that the institute has successfully conducted several programmes for NTPC in the past and also works closely with leading public sector organisations such as NHPC Limited, Steel Authority of India Limited, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, and Coal India Limited.

He highlighted that the programme marks an important transition from managerial competence to leadership excellence. The trekking component, including a spiritual visit to the revered Vaishno Devi Temple, has been thoughtfully designed to foster reflection, resilience, and deeper self-awareness. Emphasising attitudinal transformation, he encouraged participants to actively engage in peer learning and co-create knowledge to ensure meaningful outcomes that contribute to both individual growth and organisational development.

Prof. Rajesh Sikka welcomed the participants and invited them to share their expectations following the trekking experience. Several participants expressed that the trek had left them feeling energised and enthusiastic. He described the programme as an excellent platform for bonding, networking, and strengthening professional relationships. He also provided insights into the Executive Education and Consultancy initiatives at IIM Jammu for Central and State Government organisations and encouraged participants to make the most of the campus experience.

Delivering the inaugural address, Dr. Mahesh Gadekar described the MDP as a transformative initiative aimed at developing leadership capabilities through experiential learning. He informed the participants that the next three days would feature intensive sessions led by distinguished faculty members, integrating management theory with trekking-based experiential modules. He also shared a brief overview of IIM Jammu’s academic journey and institutional growth.

Dr. Naveen Goyal proposed the vote of thanks. The session concluded with participants introducing themselves and outlining their expectations from the programme, setting a collaborative and energetic tone for the days ahead.

The trekking-based Leadership Skills for Managers programme reflects IIM Jammu’s commitment to innovative executive education that seamlessly blends management theory, experiential learning, and personal transformation against the inspiring backdrop of the Lower Himalayas.