IIM Rohtak Director Champions Role of Armed Forces in Nation Building During Inspiring Session on ‘Operation Sindoor’

In a significant initiative blending leadership, patriotism, and public discourse, IIM Rohtak Director Prof. Dheeraj Sharma recently hosted a high-impact session titled “The Role of Armed Forces in Nation Building: Operation Sindoor.” The session, attended by over 320 students and faculty, was graced by Lieutenant General Rajesh Pushkar, AVSM, VSM, who shared deep insights into how India’s armed forces serve as catalysts in both national defense and socio-economic development.

IIM Rohtak Director Leads Dialogue on Nation Building and Military Valor

The event was organized to underscore the Indian Armed Forces’ multidimensional contributions beyond traditional military duties. It highlighted how the armed forces safeguard not just the borders, but also the nation’s sovereignty, democratic values, and internal harmony, even amidst modern hybrid threats like misinformation and psychological warfare.

Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Director of IIM Rohtak, set the tone for the session by emphasizing that India’s defense strength is deeply rooted in its ethical framework and democratic ethos. In his welcome address, he said, “The Indian armed forces represent not just strength, but values that protect our freedom, even in the most uncertain times.”

Operation Sindoor and National Unity: A Strategic Perspective

Lt Gen. Rajesh Pushkar, while speaking about ‘Operation Sindoor’, shared that it was a strategic mission designed to target terrorist infrastructure while simultaneously combating false narratives and psychological warfare propagated through digital platforms.

He reiterated that India’s armed forces are evolving to fight both visible and invisible threats, and are actively involved in initiatives like:

• Boosting defense exports

• Empowering start-ups through defense corridors

• Improving border infrastructure via Vibrant Villages Programme

• Enhancing logistics via the Gati Shakti Master Plan

Students Encouraged to Dream Boldly and Serve Purposefully

In an emotional appeal to the young audience, Lt Gen. Pushkar urged students to remain rooted in purpose, integrity, and national service. Quoting Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he said, “Dreams are not what you see in sleep. Dreams are those that don’t let you sleep.”

He also referenced ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho to motivate students to chase their personal ambitions while keeping the nation’s interest at heart. “Chase your own pot of gold—but make sure you serve your country along the way,” he said.

IIM Rohtak Director's Vision: Leadership through Awareness and Service

This special session reflects IIM Rohtak Director Dheeraj Sharma’s broader vision of developing socially conscious leaders who are not only prepared for boardrooms but also attuned to national responsibilities. His leadership continues to bring strategic defense awareness, nation-building narratives, and ethical governance into the academic curriculum.

Prof. Sharma’s recent initiatives underscore IIM Rohtak’s commitment to creating resilient, informed, and future-ready leaders in alignment with national interests.

Why This Matters for Future Leaders

By hosting sessions that bridge military strategy, national development, and academic leadership, IIM Rohtak under Prof. Sharma’s guidance is setting an example for how premier institutions can contribute to public awareness, civic duty, and leadership ethics.

This event not only reinforced the strategic role of India’s armed forces in maintaining peace and order but also inspired students to pursue purpose-driven careers rooted in integrity and national service.

Conclusion

With sessions like these, IIM Rohtak Director Prof. Dheeraj Sharma continues to lead the institute towards being a hub of thought leadership, civic responsibility, and nation-first mindset. His initiatives reaffirm that management education is not just about markets and metrics but also about values, vigilance, and vision.