The 2025 edition of the Dr. Pritam Singh Memorial & FORE International Management Conference (PRISM–FIMC) opened in New Delhi on 19 November, bringing together top thinkers, corporate leaders, academic pioneers and policymakers for an intensive three-day dialogue on the future of leadership in a rapidly changing world. Held at Hotel Holiday Inn Aerocity, the conference set a compelling tone from the very beginning, highlighting the urgency of new leadership models amid global disruptions.
The inaugural ceremony began with the lighting of the lamp, symbolising knowledge, progress and continuity—values central to the legacy of Dr. Pritam Singh, one of India’s most influential management educators.
Leadership Beyond Authority: Dr. Pritam Singh’s Legacy Revisited
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Subir Verma, Director of FORE School of Management, emphasised that PRISM–FIMC reflects the enduring vision of Dr. Pritam Singh, whose teachings continue to guide leaders toward responsibility, ethics and global awareness.
He stressed that leadership today is not defined by mere authority but by adaptability, empathy, and geopolitical intelligence. Dr. Verma highlighted that the conference aims to decode the complex challenges emerging across industries and prepare leaders to navigate uncertainty with clarity.
A Foundation Built on Purpose: PRISM President Shares Journey
PRISM President P. Dwarkanath shared an emotional reflection on the evolution of the Pritam Singh Foundation since its inception during the difficult pandemic years. He noted that what began as a modest effort has now grown into a dynamic platform that celebrates transformative educators, honours leadership excellence, and nurtures young thinkers.
He reiterated the foundation’s commitment to carrying forward Dr. Singh’s teachings—especially the belief that leaders must continuously learn, unlearn and relearn to stay relevant.
Global Shifts Are Reshaping Every Sector: Niva Bupa CEO’s Keynote
In a powerful keynote address, Krishnan Ramachandran, MD & CEO of Niva Bupa, explored how the past five years have witnessed unprecedented structural shifts in global business, driven by technology, artificial intelligence, and geopolitical fragmentation.
Reflecting on his own experience of joining Niva Bupa during the Covid era, Ramachandran highlighted the disruptive pace of change. He shared that the organisation, earlier ranked seventh among insurers, has now surged to the third position—an indicator of rapid industry transformation.
His message was clear: Businesses that do not innovate will not survive. Agility, digital adaptability, and strategic foresight are now fundamental leadership skills.
AICTE Chairman Calls for a New Leadership Mindset
Chief Guest Dr. T. G. Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE, delivered one of the most forward-looking addresses of the session. Offering deep insights into the future of leadership, he identified three key forces reshaping the 21st century:
1. Technological Disruption
From AI to automation, technology is redefining work, skills and organisational structures. Leaders must be technologically fluent, not just vaguely aware.
2. Geopolitical Realignment
With shifting global alliances, rising nationalism and new economic blocs, geopolitical understanding is now essential for corporate and administrative decision-making.
3. Sustainability-Driven Consumption
Ethical consumption, green innovation and environmental responsibility are no longer optional—they are business imperatives.
Dr. Sitharam emphasised that leadership must move from hierarchy to collaboration, harmony and adaptability.
India’s Higher Education: Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Dr. Sitharam also addressed India’s education landscape, pointing to a major challenge: only 29% of students currently transition to higher education after Class 12.
With the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 targeting a 50% Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) by 2035, he highlighted the need for rapid expansion, institutional innovation, and high-quality teaching.
He noted India’s progress:
- From Independence to 2001 → GER rose only 10%
- Between 2001 and 2025 → An additional 18% jump
He expressed confidence that the remaining growth—to meet NEP goals—will be achieved in the coming decade.
Awards, Book Launches & Recognition of Excellence
The inaugural session also honoured outstanding contributors in corporate and academic leadership with the Dr. Pritam Singh Corporate Awards and Dr. Pritam Singh Academia Awards.
Awardees included:
- Dr. Pankaj Bansal
- R P Singh
- Prof. K R S Murthy
- And other distinguished leaders.
Three major books on leadership, organisational transformation and contemporary global challenges were also launched during the event.
Looking Ahead: Three Days of Insight, Dialogue & Transformation
With multiple panels, keynote sessions and interactive dialogues lined up, PRISM–FIMC 2025 aims to drive meaningful conversations around:
- Institutional transformation
- Workforce development
- Digital integration and AI
- Global competitiveness
- Sustainable leadership
- Future-ready education systems
The conference promises to shape leadership thinking not just for today, but for future generations navigating an increasingly complex world.
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https://thenewstudent.com/wb-slst-2025-interview-list-released/