In a pioneering effort, the Indian Army has partnered with Management Development Institute (MDI) Gurgaon to offer a specialized leadership program for junior officers. The inaugural batch of Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) began a two-week “Leadership and General Management” training course at MDI Gurgaon on August 19.

Lt Gen D S Kushwah, Chief of Staff, HQ ARTRAC, described the program as a significant milestone, noting that such training was previously reserved for higher-ranking officers. He highlighted the historical connection between military and leadership theories, which later influenced corporate research.

The program’s opening ceremony was attended by participating Army officers, MDI Director Prof Arvind Sahay, and senior faculty. Gen Kushwah emphasized the importance of clearing doubts in the classroom and integrating technology, including cyber training, into modern warfare.

Maj Gen M K Mathur urged officers to fully engage with the program and apply their learning to bring positive changes in their units. Prof Arvind Sahay welcomed the initiative, noting its uniqueness in providing management education to JCOs and NCOs, which will enhance their effectiveness as soldiers.

The “Leadership and General Management” program covers topics such as leadership roles and challenges, emotional intelligence, decision-making, team building, inventory management, and negotiation skills.

Prof Sumita Rai, Dean of Industry Connect, expressed hope that the officers would have a valuable experience at MDI, which has a history of working with the Armed Forces. Program Directors Prof Ashok Panjwani, Prof Ritu Srivastava, Prof Sunil Ashra, and Prof Vidhu Gaur were also present at the event.

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