IIM-V and HMA Sign MoU to Design Customised Management Programmes
In a significant move to enhance leadership and management capabilities within the defence sector, the Indian Institute of Management, Visakhapatnam (IIM-V) has partnered with the HAL Management Academy (HMA), a nodal training centre of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This collaboration was formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on January 15, 2026.
Objectives of the Partnership
The primary aim of this strategic academic collaboration is to develop customised management programmes tailored specifically for officers in the defence sector. This initiative aligns with the Indian government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting self-reliance and capacity building in various sectors.
Key Features of the MoU
- Joint Programme Development: IIM-V and HMA will collaboratively design, develop, and deliver management programmes that cater to the unique needs of defence personnel.
- Hybrid Learning Mode: The programmes will be offered in a hybrid format, combining online and offline learning to accommodate the busy schedules of defence officers.
- Target Audience: The courses will be available to officers from HAL and other Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), ensuring a broad reach within the defence community.
- Case Studies and Knowledge Sharing: The institutions will work together to create case studies relevant to the defence sector for academic use, along with organising knowledge-sharing events and other mutually beneficial initiatives.
Statements from Leadership
Professor M Chandrasekhar, Director of IIM-V, expressed enthusiasm about the MoU, stating, “Through this collaboration, IIM-Visakhapatnam further strengthens its contribution to Atmanirbhar Bharat, building on its existing engagement through the Indian defence officers’ MBA programme.” This statement underscores the institute’s commitment to enhancing the educational landscape for defence personnel.
The MoU was signed by Arup Kumar Mallick, Executive Director of HMA, and Professor Vijaya Bhaskar Marisetty, Dean (Academics) of IIM-V, in the presence of the institute’s director, highlighting the collaborative spirit of this initiative.
Recent Initiatives by IIM-V
IIM-Visakhapatnam has been proactive in addressing the educational needs of defence officers. Recently, the institute launched a first-of-its-kind modular MBA programme specifically designed for officers in the defence sector. This programme has received approval from the Department of Defence Production under the Ministry of Defence.
Details of the Modular MBA Programme
- Participants: The programme has successfully enrolled nearly 40 officers from 10 DPSUs, including the Naval Armament Depot in Mumbai and Geomarine Dynamics India Pvt Ltd.
- Immersion Modules: Participants will engage in short immersion modules at the HAL Management Academy and the BEL Academy of Excellence in Bengaluru, as well as at the National Academy of Defence Production in Nagpur.
- International Exposure: An international immersion is also planned at ESCP Business School in Paris, France, providing participants with a global perspective on management practices.
Significance of the Collaboration
This partnership between IIM-V and HMA is poised to make a substantial impact on the professional development of defence officers. By offering tailored management education, the collaboration aims to equip officers with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of modern defence operations.
The defence sector is undergoing rapid transformation, necessitating a workforce that is not only technically proficient but also adept in management and leadership. The customised programmes developed under this MoU will address these needs, fostering a new generation of leaders in the defence industry.
Future Prospects
As IIM-V and HMA embark on this collaborative journey, the potential for innovation in defence management education is immense. The focus on hybrid learning and practical case studies will ensure that the programmes remain relevant and effective.
Furthermore, this initiative is expected to pave the way for similar collaborations between academic institutions and public sector undertakings, creating a robust framework for capacity building across various sectors in India.
Conclusion
The signing of the MoU between IIM-V and HMA marks a significant step towards enhancing management education for defence officers in India. By leveraging the strengths of both institutions, this partnership aims to create a skilled workforce capable of meeting the challenges of the evolving defence landscape.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates available as of January 2026.
