IIMB News
Prof. Srivardhini K. Jha Advances Product Diversification Research in Social Enterprises
On September 10, 2024, IIM Bangalore’s Prof. Srivardhini K. Jha, in collaboration with Prof. Nachiket Bhawe from UNC Pembroke, published a groundbreaking paper titled “Context-driven Diversification in Social Enterprises” in Business & Society. This research delves into the critical, yet often neglected, role of context in the diversification strategies of social enterprises (SEs).
The study identifies two distinct context-driven diversification strategies: market development diversification (MDD) and market functioning diversification (MFD). By employing a mixed-method approach that includes qualitative interviews and a longitudinal database of Indian microfinance firms, the research reveals that while MFD positively influences financial growth, MDD significantly enhances social impact.
This work contributes vital insights to the product diversification literature, emphasizing the importance of contextual factors in shaping effective strategies for social enterprises, ultimately helping them achieve financial sustainability while maximizing social impact.
PhD Scholar Satyajit Roy Publishes Teaching Case Study in Harvard Business Publishing
Satyajit Roy, a PhD student specializing in Production and Operations Management at IIM Bangalore, has published a notable teaching case study titled “Saahas Zero Waste: Breaking the Spell of Fast Fashion with Circularity.” This case, co-authored with Dr. Haritha Saranga, offers a comprehensive examination of the Indian textile industry’s value chain through a circular economy perspective. Focusing on the startup Saahas Zero Waste (SZW), it explores various waste streams, current waste treatment practices, and the challenges of reintegrating waste into the value chain.
By highlighting innovative approaches to sustainability, this case study serves as an essential resource for educators and practitioners alike. It encourages a deeper understanding of the circular economy, emphasizing the critical role of startups in transforming traditional industries for a more sustainable future.
PhD Scholar Mir Autif Leads IIMB and King’s College London Research Initiative
Mir Autif, a doctoral student in the Strategy area at IIM Bangalore, has taken on the role of project lead for the Kashmir segment of the collaborative research project “UK-India Trade: Small Firms and Global Ambitions.” This survey focuses on the carpet-weaving industry’s value chain, credit practices, export-import activities, networks, and innovation strategies.
Conducted in partnership with King’s College London and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the research is funded by the UK Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR). The study aims to identify the challenges and opportunities faced by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the context of bilateral trade between the UK and India, under the guidance of principal investigators from both institutions.
PhD Scholar Divya Dwivedi Publishes Groundbreaking Study on Generative AI
Divya Dwivedi, a doctoral scholar at IIM Bangalore, has co-authored a significant research paper on Generative AI with Dr. Rahul Dé from the Information Systems area. Titled “Potential for GenAI in the Public Domain: A Review of Transportation, Healthcare, Agriculture, and Law,” the study has been accepted for publication in Digital Government: Research and Practice, a journal from the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM).
This paper explores the emerging potential of Generative AI across various sectors, aiming to enhance public services. Earlier this year, Dr. DĂ© also contributed to the field with a publication on responsible digital service regulation in India, co-authored with IIMB alumni Abhipsa Pal and Neena Pandey, in the Journal of Information Technology Case and Application Research.
EPGP Students Excel in NITI Gear Shift Challenge
IIM Bangalore’s Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP) students—Ram Krishan Pandey, Bharatvaaj Ravi, and Ashish Kumar—achieved joint Runners-Up status in the NITI Gear Shift Challenge, aimed at promoting zero-emission truck (ZET) adoption in India. Competing against 3,428 participants, the team presented an innovative business model addressing operational and financial challenges in ZET implementation. Their solutions were showcased during a competitive round, leading to recognition at the E-FAST Summit in Delhi. This achievement highlights IIMB students’ commitment to sustainable transportation solutions in India.
