In a significant stride towards bolstering India’s higher education infrastructure, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Sambalpur. The inauguration ceremony marked the culmination of a monumental effort to establish a permanent home for one of India’s premier management institutions.
Situated on a sprawling 200-acre expanse in Basantpur, the permanent campus of IIM-Sambalpur stands as a testament to India’s commitment to excellence in education and infrastructure development. The journey towards the realization of this campus began with the laying of its foundation stone on 2nd January 2021, heralding a new era in management education in the region.
Designed and supervised by DDF Consultants in collaboration with NBCC India, the campus embodies a harmonious blend of modernity and functionality. The press release highlighted several key structures that grace the campus, including the Koutilya – Administration Building, Thakshasila 1 and 2 – Academic Blocks, Konark – Auditorium Block, I2 Hub: Incubation, Innovation and Library, Faculty Block, and MDP Block, each serving a distinct purpose in fostering an enriching academic environment.
One of the defining features of the campus is its emphasis on sustainability and environmental consciousness. With nearly a thousand trees planted across the premises, the campus strives to create a lush green ecosystem conducive to learning and innovation. Moreover, initiatives such as daylit living areas, fresh air-ventilated interior spaces, and the efficient utilization of treated water from the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) underscore the institution’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
The infrastructure of the campus is tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern education. Equipped with multiple lecture halls, video conferencing facilities, and eleven hostels accommodating up to 600 students, the campus provides a conducive environment for holistic learning and growth. Additionally, dedicated blocks for faculty and staff residences, a state-of-the-art dining hall, and an extensive library open 24/7 further enhance the academic experience for students and faculty alike.
The architectural design of the campus draws inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Odisha while incorporating contemporary elements to create a distinctive identity. The Director of DDF Consultants emphasized that the campus reflects a perfect amalgamation of art and architecture, symbolizing not only local ethos but also international standards of excellence.
In recognition of its sustainable design and innovative infrastructure, the IIM Sambalpur campus is poised to receive a four-star rating from the GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) Council. This accolade reaffirms the institution’s commitment to fostering a green and smart campus that sets benchmarks for sustainable development in higher education.
The inauguration of the IIM Sambalpur campus marks a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of academic excellence and infrastructure development. As the nation strides towards realizing its vision of becoming a global knowledge hub, investments in institutions like IIM-Sambalpur underscore India’s unwavering commitment to nurturing talent and fostering innovation in the realm of management education.
With its state-of-the-art infrastructure, eco-friendly practices, and commitment to excellence, the new campus of IIM-Sambalpur stands as a beacon of hope and progress, inspiring future generations to aspire, innovate, and lead in a rapidly evolving global landscape.