Virtual Inauguration of BBA Program
The Indian Institute of Management Udaipur held the virtual inauguration of its Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program on July 7, 2026. The chief guest was Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, who joined live from his car after his flight was delayed by heavy rains in Mumbai.
Minister's Address and Program Highlights
Minister Goyal described the BBA program as "very unique" and "a good concept," noting that its bilingual structure (Hindi and English) will make management education accessible to a wider audience. He emphasized that the online format can create a broader impact. Goyal recalled Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, India's first Industry Minister, who advocated for education in the mother tongue and universities' role in nation-building.
The Minister highlighted the global reputation of IIMs, stating that they prepare students for management challenges worldwide. He praised IIM Udaipur's journey since 2011, noting its recognition in rankings and its role in fostering entrepreneurship, citing ventures like Bombay Shaving Company and CurryiT.
Impact of COVID-19 on Education
Goyal discussed the changing relationship between education and technology post-COVID-19, noting that the pandemic laid a strong foundation for EdTech. He said India now has nearly 100 crore internet users, enabling a bridge between villages and cities through education. The National Education Policy emphasizes using technology to scale quality education, making IIM Udaipur's online, bilingual BBA program timely.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
Prof. Kunal Kamal Kumar, Chairperson of the BBA Program, explained that the program is not lowering standards but removing barriers related to language, location, time, cost, and confidence. The bilingual structure helps students understand concepts in a familiar language while building professional readiness. He stressed that the online medium does not mean laxity; the program includes faculty-led learning, quizzes, exams, and continuous feedback.
Key Suggestions from the Minister
Minister Goyal offered four suggestions for the program: organize faculty visits and student gatherings at different locations; emphasize soft skill development including technology, communication, and teamwork; provide experiential learning through onsite visits to factories and industrial clusters; and adopt global best practices using audio-visual tools, credit transfer under NEP, partnerships, and research internships.
First Batch Encouraged to Create History
Goyal urged the first batch students to use this opportunity in Amrit Kaal to prepare for building a Viksit Bharat. He said the program's hybrid model, combining online delivery with offline tests, ensures accountability. Prof. Ashok Banerjee, Director of IIM Udaipur, welcomed the suggestions and committed to implementing them by year-end.
Prof. Anirban Adhikary, Dean of Faculty and Research, highlighted the institute's research culture and urged students to maintain discipline and high standards. Prof. Vijayta Doshi, Dean of Programs, linked the BBA program to IIM Udaipur's commitment to inclusive, high-quality management education.
