The participants of the Armed Forces Programme (AFP) represent a group of professionals who embrace change, as they transition from the realms of Defence Forces to Corporate world. Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) partners in this change process by equipping the 59 selected AFP participants, with the knowledge and skills required to combat a corporate battle, through this intense residential programme.

The 16th batch of AFP reflects every aspect of the leadership of Indian Armed Forces – Commitment and Courage the attributes much needed in organisations which are designed to deliver results. The programme design which has evolved over the years facilitates merging their invaluable experience into corporate competence by including various important tools of management with an emphasis on incorporating the emerging techniques. The curriculum builds on the expertise of the participants in Operations, Supply Chain Management, Human Resource Management, Communications, Strategy, and Infrastructure Management. The specially developed curriculum lays emphasis on key areas such as Process & Service Operations, Information Technology, Economics, Financial Management, Costing and Accounting, Decision Sciences, Marketing, Organisational Behaviour and Corporate Law to enable the participants in a seamless transition into business setup.

With highly effective learning methods and in particular the pedagogy of case study method at IIM Ahmedabad, the participants have been exposed to real-life business situations covering a wide variety of industries and disciplines of management. Being part of a residential programme, the participants are exposed to a stimulating academic environment for professional learning with a host of facilities, a well-stocked library, industry interaction, lectures by eminent speakers from around the world and student activities. The experience, leadership skills, maturity, and willingness to adapt of this coterie of 59 participants will undoubtedly propel them to take on any challenge in the fast-changing business environment. I firmly believe that they would make a long-lasting positive impact in their organisations and excel in their chosen spheres. I am certain that the business environment seeking prospective leaders will be pleasantly surprised by the calibre of this enriching batch.

It gives me immense pleasure to interact with the ongoing batch of Armed Forces Programme. They represent a batch of varied skill set and experience. Most of the participants have handled diverse portfolios throughout their tenure in the Armed Forces. Many organizations make the mistake of limiting their role to administration or security related roles, whereas it is common for officers of today to have expertise in many other specialized areas, including technical domains. This wide range of experience moulded by faculty members from IIM Ahmedabad bridges the transition to between successful corporate roles from being a military officer. Their appreciation of subjects covered at IIMA and an ability to cope with the rigour of IIMA demonstrates their suitability for a diversity of roles in corporate settings. I am confident that the lessons learnt and training acquired by them will set them apart towards taking the organizations they join to great, new heights.

“Participants of Armed Forces Programme are disciplined, dedicated, goal driven and keen to learn. When laced with corporate management principles, tools and the knowledge of the market economy, they transform themselves into rightful aspirants for medium to top management positions in the corporate world. The participants have been learning the ropes to become CXOs, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs. This Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad rope trick has been made possible through a combination of unique programme design, experienced faculty members, and highly proficient participants. While teaching the course Microeconomics, it had become abundantly clear to me that these men and women have the abilities, drive and the passion to be successful corporate warriors. I wish them all the best in their future endeavours.”

Engaging with such a dynamic and dedicated group of individuals is a pleasure. I am confident that the skills acquired through this module will empower them to make informed and strategic commercial and financial decisions in the real world. The collective effort and active participation of AFP courses serve as a testament to the value of this program in cultivating a comprehensive understanding of business management.

I eagerly anticipate witnessing your continued growth and success as you apply these invaluable insights to navigate the complexities of the business landscape.