Patna : IIM Bodh Gaya has conducted a five-day General Management Development Programme (MDP) for 17 gazetted fire officers from Bihar, enhancing their expertise in crisis management and leadership. Held from March 17- 21, the programme was the first of its kind designed specifically for fire officers, who were selected through the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC).
The training aimed to provide strategic insights into decision-making and operational efficiency, preparing the officers to better handle emergencies and safeguard public safety. Dr Vinita S Sahai, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, underscored the importance of strong leadership in emergency services. Addressing the participants, she emphasised the critical role fire officers play in protecting lives and assets. She also highlighted the Institute’s commitment to blending management education with real-world governance and presented certificates to the participants, acknowledging their dedication to continuous learning.
The programme was overseen by Dr Amit Shrivastava, President, Executive Education & Consultancy, while Dr Somya Prakash Patra and Dr Vishal Ashok Wankhede coordinated the sessions, ensuring a well-structured and impactful experience. To reinforce practical learning, an outbound trip was organised as part of the programme.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Shri Sudhir Kumar Porika, IPS, praised the initiative, noting that the training would enhance emergency response capabilities through improved leadership and strategic management. Shri Dr Ashok Kumar Prasad, Principal of Bihar Fire Training Academy, Anandpur, Bihta, also commended the programme, describing it as a unique opportunity for fire officers to advance their professional knowledge.
The programme concluded with a Director’s Dinner accompanied by cultural performances, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by Dr Patra.
This initiative is part of IIM Bodh Gaya’s broader commitment to capacity building in the public sector. So far this academic year, the Institute has conducted 125 Management Development Programmes (MDPs), training over 8,200 officers from various government and public service departments. These include the Water Resources Department (WRD), BIPARD, Bihar Police Academy, State Health Society Bihar, Indian Oil Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum, and the Department of Panchayati Raj, reflecting IIM Bodh Gaya’s ongoing dedication to strengthening leadership and governance across critical sectors.
