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Bhubaneswar: Utkal University recently conducted a national seminar titled “Navigating Sustainability: Innovations and Challenges in Emerging Management Practices” on Saturday. This event was supported by the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA 2.0) and organized by the Department of Business Administration.

The seminar took place at the MKCG Auditorium in Bhubaneswar, focusing on the integration of sustainability into business strategies, governance, and management education.

Dr. Rashmita Sahoo, the Head of the Department of Business Administration and the Seminar Convenor, welcomed all dignitaries and participants.

During the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor Jagneshwar Dandapat emphasized the need for academic institutions to actively promote research, innovation, and leadership focused on sustainability among students and scholars.

The keynote address was presented by Debasish Sur, a professor of commerce at the University of Burdwan, who underscored the significance of responsible corporate governance, financial accountability, and sustainable management strategies for the future of organizations.

Guests of honor included Tapan Kumar Chand, managing director of Odisha Special Grade Alumina and former CMD of National Aluminium Company; Kedar Ranjan Pandu, managing director of Odisha Power Generation Corporation; and Kulamani Biswal, former director (finance) of NTPC, who attended remotely.

The seminar featured various technical sessions that explored topics such as sustainable business models, circular economy, green entrepreneurship, sustainable finance, responsible investment, sustainable workforce practices, and green marketing. Researchers and scholars from various institutions presented papers and shared insights on emerging sustainability challenges.

The valedictory session was graced by Mitali Chinara, chairperson of the Postgraduate Council at Utkal University, who highlighted the importance of academic research and dialogue in tackling sustainability issues.

Durga Prasad Samontaray, an associate professor of finance at King Saud University in Riyadh, also attended as a guest of honor and discussed global sustainability practices and financial governance.

Certificates were awarded to participants and presenters during the closing session. The organizers noted that the seminar witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, research scholars, students, and professionals, fostering a platform for academic exchange and collaboration on sustainable management practices.