In an inspiring convergence of intellectual vitality, administrative insight and transformative learning, the Five-Day Leadership & Management Development Programme for Elected Representatives and Functionaries of Panchayati Raj Institutions, conceptualized and led with exceptional vision by Prof. Rajni Singh, Dean, Corporate Communications, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, concluded with remarkable success at the Executive Development Centre of the institute.
Organized under the Department of Panchayati Raj, Government of Jharkhand, and in alignment with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India, the programme witnessed the participation of over 25 grassroots leaders from across the state, with women representatives forming a resounding majority. Their vibrant involvement underscored the growing and indispensable role of women in village governance.
At the core of this carefully curated training stood Prof. Rajni Singh, whose scholarly finesse, empathetic leadership and meticulous coordination elevated the programme to a highly enriching academic and experiential endeavour.
Conducting the second training in the series—following the successful April edition—Prof. Singh delivered insightful sessions on Own Source Revenues and Gender Management on the concluding day, complementing her earlier modules on Digital Tools for Promotion and Dissemination: Showcasing Model Villages and Showcasing Your Gram Panchayat.
The profound impact of the programme was reflected in heartfelt participant testimonials. Rinki Kumari, Up-Pramukh of Sariya Block, Giridih, shared, “These five days transformed the way I look at leadership. I feel more confident, empowered and prepared to serve my community.
The organizing team, led by Prof. Rajni Singh, designed the training so thoughtfully that it gave us a holistic and practical understanding of effective village leadership. Her warmth and dedication inspired us at every step.”
Rani Soren, Pramukh of Birni Block, Giridih, noted, “This programme will remain a memorable chapter in my journey as a public representative. Prof. Rajni Singh’s encouragement filled us with renewed motivation and strengthened our resolve to work more effectively for our communities.”
The training also included a visit to the institute’s Long Wall Gallery, offering participants an enlightening glimpse into modern mining technology and operational systems.
Supporting this academic endeavour were Prof. Niladri Das and Prof. Rashmi Singh, co-coordinators from the Department of Management Studies and Industrial Engineering, who conducted sessions on Financial Management, Resource Mobilization, Project Planning, Village Development, Time Value of Money, and Digital Transformation for Rural Development. Prof. G.S. Pathak further enriched the programme with sessions on Village Management and Dialogue from the Field.
Reinforcing its commitment to nurturing enlightened rural leadership, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad has scheduled two more editions of the Leadership Development Programme from November 17–21 and November 24–28.
The programme stands as a resounding affirmation of IIT (ISM)’s dedication to empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions and strengthening grassroots democracy across Jharkhand.