Shillong: IIM Shillong marked the 78th Independence Day with great fervor and enthusiasm, paying homage to the brave freedom fighters who sacrificed for the nation’s independence. As one of the most diverse management institutions in the country, IIM Shillong holds a unique position of national importance.
The celebration was made even more special by the presence of students representing almost every state and union territory, all gathered in the picturesque city of Shillong to honor this momentous occasion.
The celebration began with IIM Shillong’s Director, Prof. D. P. Goyal, hoisting the National Tricolor, which soared proudly at a height of 100 feet, symbolizing the towering aspirations of the IIM Shillong community. The National Flag stood as a beacon of the institution’s pride and commitment to the nation’s progress in the easternmost corner of India. The entire IIM Shillong fraternity, including students and staff, united in singing the national anthem, expressing their collective pride and patriotism.
In his address, Prof. Goyal paid tribute to the heroic freedom fighters whose sacrifices paved the way for India’s independence. He highlighted IIM Shillong’s crucial role in contributing to the nation’s development and called for a collective effort and individual dedication to ensuring India’s rise to unparalleled greatness.
“We must always remember the sacrifices of our freedom fighters, whose legacy makes us proud,” Prof. Goyal remarked. “Today, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the integrity and honor of our nation. Let the glory of this day inspire us to strive for success and contribute to the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat.’ This vision is not merely a goal but a commitment—a call for each of us to help transform India into a developed nation by 2047, as we celebrate a century of independence.”
Prof. Goyal emphasized that achieving ‘Viksit Bharat’ would require innovation, resilience, and responsibility. As future leaders, he urged the students to look beyond personal success and work towards advancing society as a whole.
One of the event’s highlights was an award ceremony recognizing the outsourced staff members who play a crucial role in keeping the campus running smoothly. The Chief Administrative Officer, Col. (Retd.) Dinesh Adhikari, extended his heartfelt appreciation to these unsung heroes, emphasizing their essential contributions to the institution’s success.
The celebration continued with a vibrant cultural program featuring heartfelt poetry recitations and performances by students from the PGP program. The dance and skit performances showcased the spirit of patriotism and unity, culminating in a stirring rendition of “Vande Mataram” by a young girl, whose soulful voice resonated throughout the hall, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
The event concluded with a renewed sense of patriotism and pride as the IIM Shillong community celebrated the spirit of freedom and the institution’s commitment to shaping future leaders for a brighter, developed India.