In a significant step towards conserving and reviving the holy river Ganga, the Indian Institute of Management, Bodh Gaya (IIMBG) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. The MOU signing ceremony took place on July 15, 2023, in Bodh Gaya.
The MOU focused on building a mutually-oriented relationship between NMCG and IIMBG for participating and supporting each other’s awareness and other campaigns and ensuring the presence through logos, webinars, workshops, seminars etc.
A very extensive meeting following the MOU signing took place and went on around for two hours. Around 40 senior officers of the state and district levels, the senior civil servants, including IAS officers, also actively participated in the meeting and discussed river rejuvenation, water conservation, water harvesting, and waste management. Officers from different departments gave input to clearly identify the problem and come out with possible options to solve the problem.
Prof. Vinita Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, highlighted, “In addition to being preached about, issues like mindfulness and sustainability can also be worked on”.
Recognising the importance of preserving this lifeline of millions, IIM Bodh Gaya has been actively contributing towards the river rejuvenation efforts of the Ganga mission. Recently, on March 22, 2023, the Pragati-CSR Committee of IIM Bodh Gaya organized a compelling nukkad natak (street play) at the Niranjana Falgu Parv.
NMCG, an initiative by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, is a transformative project to rejuvenate the Ganga and its tributaries. This mission envisions a cleaner and healthier Ganga, benefiting millions of people who rely on the river for their livelihood and spiritual well-being. The collaboration between IIM Bodh Gaya and NMCG will foster the greater exchange of information, joint research projects, and the establishment of a Ganga activity centre at the institute.
Prof. Vinita Sahay expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration by saying, “We have always been ambitious towards sustainability, and we will keep volunteering to come forward wherever young minds and energy is needed to do our best”.
"Business Schools have always been oriented towards making a profit, but I'm very happy and impressed that a business school like IIM Bodh Gaya is coming forward to focus on
sustainability and mindfulness," expressed Shri G Asok Kumar, Director General of Namami Gange, with great optimism.
The Ganga holds immense cultural, economic, and ecological significance for India. By joining hands with NMCG, IIM Bodh Gaya reaffirms its dedication to environmental stewardship and reinforces the importance of collective action towards a greener and more sustainable future.