Day 1 | GIAN Course on "Resilient Supply Chains and Sustainability"

Introduction

On the morning of November 29, 2024, the School of Management at the National Institute of Technology, Raipur, inaugurated its much-anticipated GIAN (Global Initiative of Academic Networks) course on "Resilient Supply Chains and Sustainability." The event was graciously begun with a welcome address by Ela Kumari, a research scholar at the institution. She welcomed all the distinguished guests and participants, expressing her pride in conducting this transformative course.

As the proceedings kicked off, the tradition of lighting a lamp was followed, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge. Esteemed dignitaries including Professor K. U. Maheswar Rao (Honorable Director), Professor Usha Ramanathan (International Expert), and others graced the occasion. Following the lamp lighting, Professor Manindra Pratap Singh, the GIAN course coordinator, provided an introduction to the course objectives. He expressed gratitude towards various parties, including the Ministry of Education's initiative to foster academic collaboration.

The course is designed to explore the significance of sustainable supply chains in the current competitive environment, emphasizing the balance between cost-effectiveness and sustainability in logistics. The overarching theme of sustainability and engagement with local communities throughout the supply chain was reiterated.

Professor Shashi Kumar Sahu, the GIAN local coordinator, elaborated on the importance of the GIAN program. He emphasized its role in tapping into the talent pool of scientists and entrepreneurs while enriching academic resources in India.

The event saw several speeches from key dignitaries, not only discussing the theoretical aspects of supply chains but also delving into practical challenges faced by industries today. Professor Chandan Kumar Sahu, head of the School of Management, stressed that sustainability in supply chains addresses the shifting paradigm of consumer expectations, particularly after the disruptions occasioned by recent global events.

Furthermore, the Honorable Dean, Shri Professor Sesh Kumar Prar, discussed how the resilience and sustainability of supply chains are critical in dealing with challenges like pandemics and climate change. He laid out the course structure, highlighting how participants would engage with expert speakers and collaborative opportunities throughout the course.

The occasion concluded with Professor Usha Ramanathan presenting some insights into the global academic dialogue on sustainable practices in supply chains. She also highlighted the role of youth in driving sustainable innovations.

Overall, the inaugural event set a constructive tone, ensuring that participants will immerse themselves in extensive learning over the next five days, driving home the importance of resilient and sustainable supply chains in modern business practices.

Keyword

GIAN Course
Resilient Supply Chains
Sustainability
School of Management
National Institute of Technology
Energy-efficient practices
Collaboration
Supply Chain Management
Global Academic Initiative
Sustainable Practices

FAQ

Q1: What is the GIAN course about?
A1: The GIAN course focuses on "Resilient Supply Chains and Sustainability," emphasizing the significance of sustainable practices in the current competitive environment.

Q2: Who are some of the dignitaries present during the inauguration?
A2: The event was graced by Professor K. U. Maheswar Rao (Honorable Director), Professor Usha Ramanathan (International Expert), and Professor Manindra Pratap Singh (GIAN course coordinator), among others.

Q3: What are the main topics covered in the course?
A3: The course will cover various aspects of sustainable supply chain management, including cost-effectiveness, resilience, and the balance between sustainability and competitive advantages.

Q4: How does the course aim to foster collaboration among participants?
A4: The course encourages interactions with eminent speakers and fosters academic collaboration, providing participants opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions.

Q5: How long will the course take place?
A5: The GIAN course on "Resilient Supply Chains and Sustainability" is scheduled to take place over five days, from November 29 to December 3, 2024.