The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur has launched the MBA in Public Policy and Governance for the 2025 academic session, an innovative program designed to nurture future leaders in governance. As part of the Chief Minister’s Good Governance Fellowship (CMGGF), this two-year, fully funded residential program offers a ₹50,000 monthly stipend and is exclusively for Chhattisgarh-domiciled candidates. Announced in November 2024, the initiative is a collaboration with the Government of Chhattisgarh to enhance administrative efficiency and policy implementation. Applications are open until May 31, 2025, via iimraipur.ac.in. This article provides a clear, engaging guide to the program’s eligibility, benefits, application process, and more, formatted for easy reading with key points under each section.
Program Overview
The MBA in Public Policy and Governance at IIM Raipur is a flagship initiative aimed at attracting young professionals to contribute to governance and policy in Chhattisgarh. Structured as a partnership with the Department of Good Governance and Convergence, the program integrates rigorous academics with practical exposure, including direct interactions with the Hon’ble Chief Minister through regular Samvad sessions.
Key Points:
- Duration: Two-year, full-time residential MBA program.
- Funding: Fully sponsored by the Government of Chhattisgarh, covering tuition and related fees.
- Stipend: ₹50,000 per month for each enrolled student.
- Target Group: Exclusively for candidates domiciled in Chhattisgarh.
- Objective: Develop leaders to enhance governance and policy implementation.
Why Choose This Program?
This fully funded MBA stands out for its unique blend of academic excellence and real-world impact. Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, Director of IIM Raipur, highlights its role in fostering ethical leaders who are socially conscious and committed to nation-building. The program’s collaboration with the state government ensures hands-on experience in public policy and governance, making it a transformative opportunity.
Key Points:
- Practical Exposure: Regular interactions with policymakers and opportunities to present project outcomes.
- World-Class Faculty: Learn from IIM Raipur’s experienced faculty and industry experts.
- State-of-the-Art Campus: Study in a modern campus blending Chhattisgarh’s cultural heritage with advanced facilities.
- Career Impact: Prepares graduates for leadership roles in public administration and policy.
- Holistic Development: Combines academics with case studies, workshops, and governance projects.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the MBA in Public Policy and Governance 2025, candidates must meet specific academic and domicile requirements. The program welcomes graduates from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about governance.
Key Points:
- Academic Requirements: Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% aggregate (45% for reserved categories).
- Entrance Exam: Valid CAT 2024 score or equivalent (e.g., GMAT for specific cases, as per IIM Raipur’s policy).
- Domicile: Must be a resident of Chhattisgarh, verified by a domicile certificate.
- Age and Experience: Minimum 25 years of age with at least three years of managerial, entrepreneurial, or professional experience by May 31, 2025.
- Selection Process: Based on CAT score, academic performance, work experience, and personal interview (PI).
Application Process
Applications for the IIM Raipur MBA in Public Policy 2025 are open until May 31, 2025. Candidates must follow a streamlined process outlined on the official website, iimraipur.ac.in.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit iimraipur.ac.in and navigate to the “Admissions” section.
- Select the MBA in Public Policy and Governance program and register online.
- Fill out the application form with personal, academic, and professional details.
- Upload required documents, including CAT 2024 scorecard, domicile certificate, degree certificates, and experience proofs.
- Pay the application fee via the IIM Raipur payment portal.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation receipt.
Key Points:
- Deadline: May 31, 2025.
- Documents Needed: CAT scorecard, mark sheets, domicile certificate, experience certificates (e.g., appointment letter, salary slips, or ITR/GST for business owners).
- Shortlisting: Based on CAT scores, academic records, and diversity factors; shortlisted candidates attend a personal interview from June 10–12, 2025.
- Final Selection: Merit list prepared by July 2025, considering PI performance and overall profile.
- Helpline: Contact admissions@iimraipur.ac.in for queries.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The MBA in Public Policy and Governance spans six terms over two years, totaling 34 credits (1 credit = 30 hours of classroom contact). The curriculum blends general management theories, public policy frameworks, and practical governance projects, ensuring graduates are equipped to address real-world challenges.
Key Points:
- Phases: Includes core courses (Fundamentals of Management), electives in public policy, and a capstone project.
- Learning Modes: 900 hours of teaching via online classes, two 5-day campus visits, and a mini-dissertation supervised by faculty.
- Key Subjects: Public Policy Analysis, Governance and Ethics, Economics for Policy, Leadership in Administration, and more.
- Practical Components: Capstone project and summer projects aligned with Chhattisgarh’s governance initiatives.
- Evaluation: Continuous assessment through mid-term/end-term exams, quizzes, assignments, and class participation.
Financial Support and Benefits
The CMGGF makes this program financially accessible, covering all costs and providing a generous stipend to support students’ focus on learning and governance contributions.
Key Points:
- Full Sponsorship: Tuition, library, and utility fees fully covered by the Government of Chhattisgarh.
- Monthly Stipend: ₹50,000 per month for the entire program duration.
- Additional Grants: Access to IIM Raipur’s virtual library, case studies, and international university exposure.
- Alumni Status: Graduates earn IIM Raipur Alumni Status, opening doors to a robust professional network.
- Career Opportunities: Prepares candidates for roles in public administration, policy consulting, and government advisory.
Selection and Admission Process
The IIM Raipur admission process for this MBA is rigorous, ensuring only motivated and capable candidates are selected. The process includes two stages: shortlisting for Personal Interview (PI) and final merit list preparation.
Key Points:
- Shortlisting Criteria: 50% weight to CAT 2024 score, 20% each to Class 10 and 12 grades, and 10% to work experience/diversity.
- Personal Interview: Conducted in Raipur or virtually, assessing leadership, communication, and passion for governance (June 10–12, 2025).
- Final Selection: Composite score based on CAT (42%), PI (23%), academic profile (33%), and diversity (2%).
- Offer Acceptance: Selected candidates pay a ₹1,00,000 acceptance fee by July 15, 2025, adjustable against Term 1 fees.
- Withdrawal Policy: Full refund (minus ₹1,000 processing fee) if withdrawn before the specified date; partial refund post-deadline if the seat is filled.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the program is a groundbreaking opportunity, candidates should be aware of potential challenges, such as adapting to a rigorous academic schedule and balancing governance projects with coursework. However, the state-of-the-art campus, international exposure, and mentorship from eminent faculty make it a rewarding experience.
Key Points:
- Opportunities: Direct engagement with policymakers, alumni networking, and leadership roles in governance.
- Challenges: High academic expectations and need for strong time management.
- Support System: Access to faculty mentorship, virtual library, and student wellness resources.
- Infrastructure: Modern campus with advanced facilities enhances learning.
Why This MBA Matters
The IIM Raipur MBA in Public Policy and Governance 2025 is a pioneering program that aligns academic excellence with Chhattisgarh’s development goals. By offering full funding and a substantial stipend, it removes financial barriers, enabling talented local youth to contribute to nation-building. The program’s focus on ethical leadership and policy innovation positions graduates to drive impactful change in public administration.
