Given the hands-on experience of successfully driving a rural incubation program for the states of Assam, Bihar and West Bengal as part of the NRLM-led NRETP Incubator Program, IIM Calcutta Innovation Park has picked up the baton to pass on the learnings and best practices for supporting rural entrepreneurs to the enablers who are in a position to play crucial roles in supporting enterprises within the rural landscape of the country. Taking the first step towards realising the objective, IIMCIP designed a 4-month capacity building program for the officials from the Tamil Nadu Rural Transformation Project (TNRTP). This strategic program, designed in collaboration with the Government of Tamil Nadu, sought to equip officials with the necessary skills, tools and insights to drive meaningful economic change in rural communities.

The primary objective of the capacity-building workshop was to enhance the ability of TNRTP officials to effectively manage and implement rural development programs. Through a focus on leadership and management development, the program aimed to prepare officials to design and execute initiatives that drive tangible change in rural communities. By the end of the training, participants gained the confidence and skills needed to address complex challenges, mobilise resources and meet program objectives with greater efficiency.

 

Capacity enhancement through bootcamps

The Capacity Enhancement Workshop was conducted in three distinct bootcamps, held across three batches over three days, from May to September. Each batch was led by its respective facilitators, viz., V. Babu, S. Muruganantham and Jagan Kumar L. Each bootcamp was tailored to different groups of officials, followed by a final session specifically designed for senior executives. For the bootcamps, the participants were trained in essential components for empowering rural entrepreneurs, like leadership, market access and value chain development. From understanding rural business models, the MSME sector and practical insights into rural development, to mastering the intricacies of legal compliance and financial management, TNRTP officials gained comprehensive insights that have built their capacity to enhance rural livelihoods through entrepreneurship and innovation. Experts to lead the sessions were Divvay Chaddha and Nitish Mawkin from Singhania & Co., while Rakesh Singh from S. Sanghi & Co. and Debapratim Das, the IIMCIP CFO took charge of the sessions on financial management.

A significant aspect of the program was its emphasis on market-driven strategies to promote rural enterprises. Officials were trained in value chain enhancement, enabling rural entrepreneurs to connect with broader markets, increase competitiveness and achieve better economic outcomes. This market-oriented approach aimed to improve the viability and profitability of rural businesses, directly contributing to enhanced livelihoods.

 

Hands-on learning and real-world impact

One of the hallmarks of IIMCIP’s approach is its emphasis on experiential learning. The workshop didn’t just focus on theoretical knowledge—it immersed participants in the realities of rural entrepreneurship. Officials had the unique opportunity to directly interact with entrepreneurs and explore real-life case studies. This hands-on experience allowed officials to apply the theoretical knowledge gained during the workshop to real-world scenarios, deepening their understanding of the dynamics of rural entrepreneurship. The final phase of the program culminated in team presentations, where officials showcased their strategies for rural enterprises. The most innovative and impactful team was awarded for their presentation.

 

Boosting competencies for sustainable rural transformation

At the heart of IIMCIP’s initiative is the belief that capacity building is key to long-term rural transformation. The workshop introduced innovative tools and methodologies to help officials address key issues related to rural entrepreneurship, livelihood creation and sustainable development. Participants were introduced to methods for streamlining processes, improving communication, and leveraging data for more informed decision-making.

Furthermore, the program placed a strong emphasis on mentorship. IIMCIP’s mentors, including Dr. Subhrangshu Sanyal (CEO), Debapratim Das (CFO), Suman Mukhopadhyay, Gaurav Kapoor (CBO), Prof. C.D. Mitra, Kaustav Majumdar, Dr. Bikash Chandra Mondal and Saumitra Dutta, trained officials towards guiding rural entrepreneurs through challenges, fostering innovation and ensuring the long-term sustainability of grassroots-level enterprises.

The capacity enhancement program was further strengthened by the involvement of Ms. S. Divyadharshini, IAS, CEO of TNRTP and Managing Director of the Tamil Nadu State Rural Livelihoods Mission (TNSRLM), whose presence underscored the significance and impact of the initiative.

IIMCIP’s Capacity Enhancement Workshop for TNRTP officials represents a bold step forward in rural development, with a clear focus on creating a lasting impact. As IIMCIP continues to champion rural innovation and entrepreneurship, programs like this are expected to create agents of change who will lead the way in fostering sustainable rural economies towards achieving the goal of a Viksit Bharat.