IBG NEWS Desk | Sambalpur | 22 May 2026
Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur, one of India's leading management institutions, in collaboration with NGO WE4YOU, organised the Western Odisha Ability Summit 2026 with the theme "From Access to Income: Local Pathways for Inclusive Livelihood." The summit witnessed participation from more than 200 differently-abled individuals, highlighting the importance of accessibility, empowerment, and inclusive economic growth.
The initiative reflected IIM Sambalpur's commitment to inclusivity and social transformation, one of the institution's core values. Notably, the IIM Sambalpur campus is also designed to be disability-friendly, promoting equal access and participation.
The summit was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Jayanarayan Mishra, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur, T.M. Prakash, President and Head HR of Hindalco Industries' Downstream Business, and Parveen Verma, CEO of TPWODL.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal emphasized the importance of overcoming mental barriers and building an inclusive society.
"The greatest barrier is often mental rather than physical. We must look beyond limitations and work collectively towards creating a more inclusive ecosystem. At IIM Sambalpur, we aim to build a business education model that serves India while becoming an inspiration globally," he stated.
Speaking at the event, MLA Jayanarayan Mishra praised the institution's contribution over the past decade.
"I appreciate IIM Sambalpur for its remarkable ten-year journey. It is inspiring to witness the institute's growth and its contribution towards community development and social transformation through education and innovation," he said.
The summit focused on creating pathways for sustainable livelihoods, community empowerment, and inclusive growth for persons with disabilities, reinforcing the role of academic institutions in driving social impact initiatives across the region.