Governor Urges IIM Sambalpur Graduates to Drive Startup Growth

Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has called on graduates of Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur to become job creators and lead India’s expanding startup ecosystem, underscoring the growing opportunities in entrepreneurship and innovation.

Addressing the institute’s 10th convocation ceremony, the Governor highlighted India’s “unprecedented startup revolution,” powered by flagship initiatives such as Startup India, Digital India, Make in India and Skill India. He noted that under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the country is steadily emerging as a global hub for startups, backed by strong policy support, funding access and mentorship networks.

Praising IIM Sambalpur as a centre of innovation and inclusiveness, Kambhampati said the institute exemplifies a blend of cultural heritage and modern, technology-driven education. He congratulated students graduating from MBA, Executive MBA, MBA for Working Professionals and doctoral programmes, while acknowledging the role of faculty and parents in their achievements.

Emphasising that a convocation signifies both accomplishment and responsibility, the Governor urged students to apply their knowledge with integrity and purpose to address real-world challenges. He stressed the importance of adaptability in a fast-evolving world, citing the decline of Nokia as a lesson in failing to keep pace with technological change.

Highlighting resilience, he referred to Parag Agrawal and his efforts to rebuild after stepping down from leadership at Twitter, noting that setbacks can open doors to reinvention and growth.

Kambhampati also pointed to Odisha’s rising profile as a hub for industrial growth and entrepreneurship, with strong prospects in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, textiles, IT and renewable energy. He encouraged graduates to contribute to the state’s development by tapping into these opportunities.

Referring to global trends including artificial intelligence, hybrid work models, sustainability and ethical governance, the Governor stressed the need for empathy, adaptability and emotional intelligence in leadership. He further urged IIM Sambalpur to strengthen its startup ecosystem and continue fostering innovation among future leaders.