Nagpur, June 16, 2025 | The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Nagpur and Yashwantrao Chavan Academy of Development Administration (YASHADA), Pune, have formalised a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at advancing executive education and capacity building for officers of Zilla Parishads and Panchayati Raj.
Dr. Bhimaraya Metri, Director of IIM Nagpur, expressed enthusiasm over the new collaboration. “This MoU marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to nation-building through grassroots empowerment. By collaborating with YASHADA, we aim to bring the best of IIM Nagpur’s academic rigour to strengthen the leadership capabilities of Panchayati Raj functionaries. We believe empowered local governance is key to India’s inclusive and sustainable development,” said Dr. Metri.
The agreement sets the framework for designing tailored executive development programmes focused on leadership, communication, digital transformation, project management, and village development planning.
Dr. Mallinath Kalshetty, IAS (Retd.), Director of the State Rural Development Institute, Yashada, Pune, emphasised that this partnership with IIM Nagpur is a significant stride towards enhancing the administrative and leadership capabilities of our Panchayati Raj representatives. “By combining YASHADA’s grassroots experience with IIM Nagpur’s academic excellence, we are laying the foundation for more effective, accountable, and visionary local governance across Maharashtra. The MoU lays the groundwork for a sustainable, win-win relationship.”
CAO Lt Col Makarand Alur (Retd), Prof. Neelkanth Dhone, and Dr. Sapan Kumar Singh of IIM Nagpur were also present on the occasion.
