Union HRD minister MM Pallam Raju addresses the gathering during the foundation ceremony of IIM-R’s permanent campus at Cheri on the outskirts of Ranchi on Monday. Local residents (right), who could not find place inside the specially erected podium, watch the proceedings from a distance. Pictures by Prashant Mitra

Ranchi, July 29: Think local, act global. That’s the advice Union minister of human resource development M.M. Pallam Raju offered IIM-Ranchi as he laid its foundation stone this evening at Cheri in Kanke block, 20km from the state capital.

A nondescript village devoid of proper electricity and drinking water supply, Cheri has one single kutcha road that links it to Ring Road that leads to Ranchi. However, with today’s high-profile installation, its residents hoped of good tidings in the future.

In his short address, Raju asked IIM-Ranchi to use the opportunity to put not just the village but the entire state on the global map.

“For IIM-Ranchi, it’s a historic day. I sincerely hope that this day proves lucky for this cradle to uplift the fortunes of people and this state in real terms,” the minister said.

Raju suggested that involving local villagers in the activities of upcoming educational institutions, through jobs, would lead for amicable existence of all stakeholders.

Highlighting the Centre’s efforts in the field of higher education, Raju appreciated the IIM-R management’s perseverance. “IIM-R managed to sail through all odds so far, but the real challenge now is to convert this foundation stone into a milestone of sorts both for locals, state and the country at large,” he added.

Union rural development minister Jairam Ramesh said the institute should induct local people in grade three and four jobs.

Chief minister Hemant Soren made good use of the opportunity to demand more higher education cradles of repute for Jharkhand. “I prefer universities over industries. They don’t create pollution and are constructive in nature. I request the HRD minister to consider giving us an IIT and a medical college as well. I will ensure land for them,” promised Hemant.

Among others present were Ranchi MP Subodh Kant Sahay, chief secretary R.S. Sharma, additional secretary, Union HRD, Amita Sharma and IIM-R director M.J. Xavier.