External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the 15th Annual Convocation Ceremony at IIM Raipur, encouraging the graduating class to play a crucial role in shaping a developed India amidst global challenges like pandemics, conflicts, and climate change. Jaishankar commended the graduates, emphasizing their generation’s potential to lead India towards prosperity with their skills and access to technology and information. He also highlighted the significant changes and challenges the graduates will face, including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts, and the urgency of addressing climate change.
The minister expressed optimism about India’s future despite the current global uncertainties, citing the nation’s progress over the past decade, resilience in facing global shocks, and its position among the top five economies. Jaishankar stressed the importance of inclusive growth, decisive leadership, and the integration of digital tools with India’s heritage to build a strong foundation for the future. He also emphasized the need to enhance national capabilities in key sectors such as food, health, energy, and national security under the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Jaishankar encouraged the graduates to deepen their understanding of global affairs and cultures, recognizing the increasing overlap between diplomacy and business. Drawing parallels between diplomacy and management, he outlined essential traits for success, including good preparation, sound judgement, negotiating skills, and prioritizing national interests with an “India First” approach. The minister concluded by advising the young managers to focus on continuous learning, building strong relationships, and upholding ethical values, wishing them success in their future endeavors.
