Sambalpur: Chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday appealed to IIM Sambalpur students to channelise their thoughts and emotions to help uplift the weaker sections of the society.

Attending as chief guest on the second convocation of the IIM on the Sambalpur University campus, Jyoti Vihar, Naveen told the students that as entrepreneurs, they should be willing to take risks, build organisations, provide employability and be inspirations to the world.

"Take success and failure in your stride and I am sure the best days lie ahead of you," the chief minister said.

"IIM Sambalpur is fast growing and positioning itself as a centre of innovation and entrepreneurship. The institute has been aiming to prepare ethical leaders who with their commitment to business, commerce and industry will strive for social consciousness while contributing to nation building," he added.

The chief minister awarded the IIM Sambalpur gold medal to Visangiri Roza, director's gold medal to Khusboo Sachdava and director and chairman's gold medal to Sourav Lalwani for their outstanding performance during their academic session.

The chief minister said: "You are fortunate to nurture your talent as future leaders in the institution that cultivates values of equality, fairness, integrity and acceptance."

"As you embark on your new journey, I hereby call upon you to follow a fearless path with passion and emotion. The nation looks upon you not only as able managers but also social entrepreneurs who work to change the world," Naveen said.

Forty-five students were awarded degrees at the convocation.IIM director Mahadeo Jaiswal said placement of the institution had been "outstanding".

The highest annual package a student got was Rs 60.70 lakh while the average was Rs 10.03 lakh.

IIM chairperson Arundhati Bhattacherya said: "Soon you would be taking up responsible positions in the industry. Do not let the glitz and glamour of the corporate world deter to you from your social responsibilities and ethics."