New Academic Session commences for the Batch 2025-27
Xavier Institute of Social Service (XISS), Ranchi organised the Inaugural Ceremony of the Orientation-cum-Induction Ceremony for the Batch of 2025-27 in the Fr Michael Van den Bogaert Auditorium on 18 June 2025.
The inaugural session of the 8-Day Orientation Programme was attended by Chief Guest, Prof (Dr) D K Singh, Vice Chancellor, Jharkhand University of Technology (JUT) along with guests Fr Ajit Kumar Xess SJ, Chairman, GB-XISS, Dr Joseph Marianus Kujur SJ, Director, XISS, Mr Salil Lal, Executive Officer & CHRO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited and an esteemed alumnus of the institution, Mrs Suparna Prasad Dev, Director, Ministry of Defence, Government of India, Assistant Director, Dr Pradeep Kerketta SJ, and Dr Amar Eron Tigga, Dean Academics, XISS. All Programme Heads, Faculty Members, and more than 300 Students from four programmes of XISS namely Human Resource Management, Rural Management, Financial Management, and Marketing Management also participated in the inauguration.
The programme began with the lighting of the lamp invoking the blessings from the Almighty. Thereafter, the Director welcomed the dignitaries on the dais and presented them with a shawl and a sapling. Assistant Director, XISS led a prayer and briefed the students about the life and teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus.
Director in his address welcomed the newly admitted students and stated that it is their time now to slog and work hard to become ‘industry ready’ upon completion of their PGDM programmes two years down the line. He discussed in detail the recent developments of NEP 2020 which ensures integration of multi-disciplinary curriculum and value-based learning which will enhance employability of the students and XISS’s commitment to fulfill it successfully. Thereafter, he introduced the faculty members and non-teaching staff members to the audience present.
Further in the inaugural session, Fr Ajit Kumar Xess SJ, Chairman, GB-XISS, asserted how values, ethics and morals place the human being at the highest pedestal in his address. He highlighted the “B to D” concept which symbolizes the journey from birth (B) to death (D), with the letter “C” in between representing the choices one makes throughout life. He concluded by stating that what truly defines a person’s life and impact on society is not how life begins or ends, but the choices made along the way. Later, Dean Academics introduced the Chief Guest to the audience.
Dr DK Singh, VC, JUT, congratulated all the students for securing seats in one of the premier institutes like XISS. He encouraged students and said that you all should strive to become leaders with values, ethics and morals. The basic purpose of education is to serve society by emphasizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students who are physically fit, mentally tough, and spiritually awakened will make the best leaders that India needs at this point of time, was the message from the Chief Guest.
Dr Bhabani Prasad Mahapatra, Head, Marketing Management Programme proposed the vote of thanks. The inaugural session was conducted by Dr Sharda Singh, Assistant Professor, and Dr Madhumita Singha which concluded with the singing of the national anthem. Later, in the afternoon session, the parents of the newly admitted students interacted with the Director, Dean Academics, and Heads of all the four programmes.
Three students were awarded the Maruti Suzuki XISS Awanish Kumar Dev Memorial Scholarship
The Maruti Suzuki XISS Awanish Kumar Dev Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of Late Mr Awanish Kumar Dev, a distinguished alumnus of the XISS PM & IR Batch of 1982-84 and former GM Plant HR at Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. Mr Dev tragically lost his life during a workers' unrest at Maruti Suzuki's Manesar plant on July 18, 2012.
This scholarship, a joint initiative by XISS and Maruti Suzuki India Ltd., operates under the Maruti Suzuki XISS Awanish Kumar Dev Memorial Trust. Its aim is to promote academic excellence and competitiveness among students specializing in Human Resource Management at XISS, Ranchi. Every year three PGDM-HRM students on the basis of their performance in first year are presented with Maruti Suzuki XISS Awanish Kumar Dev Memorial Scholarship. The winners are provided with a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh each.
In the inaugural session, Ms Ladli Kumari, Senior HR Manager, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, read out the criteria on which the students are awarded with the scholarship. Ms Suparna Dev, wife of Late Awanish Kumar Dev and Mr Salil Lal, CHRO & Executive Director, MSIL declared the names of the students. Ms Vishakha Kumari, Mr Vaibhav Vishal, and Ms Rituparna Dey of HRM Programme of batch 2024-26 were awarded the scholarship. The memorial scholarship, instituted in 2013, continues to honor Mr Dev's legacy by fostering academic growth and leadership among aspiring HR professionals.
Day 2
On the second day of the orientation programme Director, XISS, encouraged students to pursue their journey in XISS with passion, discipline, and sincerity and imbibe the morals and values imparted. He wished students success and encouraged wise, ethical decision-making in their pursuit of goals.
Assistant Director, engaged with the students and provided insights into the ‘Jesuit Way of Proceeding’ and the unique approach Jesuits follow in imparting education. Fr Ashok Kandulna SJ, Finance Officer, briefed the students on financial matters both within business organizations and specifically at XISS. He thoroughly explained the procedures and best practices for handling financial issues at the institute.
Further, members of the Alumni Association of XISS (AAXISS) led by Vice Chairman, Mr Jasbir Singh Khurana along with Ms Amba Prasad, Former MLA-Barkagaon, Mr Abhishek Victor, Ms Rashmi Ruchi, Mr Maheep Sahni, and Mr Himalay interacted with the students and provided valuables guidance and tips to the newly admitted students including preparing for placements.
Ms Amba Prasad shared her valuable insight about social work and its impact on the society. The session was coordinated by the Alumni Office including Dr Sharda Singh and Ms Aayurshi.
During further sessions in the day, students were introduced to the committees for students’ grievances, complaints, and students’ welfare. These committees include Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), Anti-Ragging Committee (ARC), Counselling Services (CS), Students’ Grievance Redressal Committee (SGRC). Dr Madhumita Singha, Presiding Officer, Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), briefed the objective and purpose of ICC and introduced the members of the committee. Dr Niranjan Sahoo briefed the students about the Anti-Ragging Committee and introduced the members of the committee. Dr Anant Kumar, Coordinator, Counselling Services urged the students to meet the counsellor when they feel low or feel worried. Dr RK Agrawal, Head, Students’ Grievance Redressal Committee (SGRC), briefed the students about the purpose of the committee to the students.
Furthermore, Dr Madhumita Singha, and other members, briefed the objective, benefits, and some of the highlights of SWAYAM Portal to the students. In the last session for day two, Ms Shamida Lakra, Library-in-Charge, Fr Michael Albert Windey SJ Memorial Library, briefed the students on the fully automated library and the various resources available in the library. She also demonstrated to the students on how to get access of the various textbooks and journals available in the library. She also briefed the students about the National Digital Library of India (NDLI).
Day 3
A comprehensive understanding of the Indian Constitution and the nation’s political framework is vital for students pursuing business management, as the growth and sustainability of businesses are deeply influenced by the prevailing political climate. Recognizing this, Day 3 of the Induction cum Orientation Programme began with an enlightening session by Dr Saumya Maniny Sinha, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, St Xavier’s College, Ranchi. The session provided students with a foundational perspective on ‘India’s Constitution and Political Systems’, emphasizing the role of governance, rights, duties, and institutional structures in shaping the business environment of the country.
In the second session of the day, Dr Pradeep Kerketta SJ, Controller of Examinations at XISS, addressed the students with key academic protocols. He thoroughly explained the procedures related to the conduct of examinations, eligibility and guidelines for scholarships, the contents and purpose of the student manual, and the behavioural code of conduct expected from every XISS student. His session highlighted the importance of academic integrity, discipline, and institutional responsibility.
The third session was led by Dr Indrani Ghatak, Warden of the Hostels, who briefed the students on hostel life at XISS. She detailed the rules and regulations that govern residential life, while also highlighting the amenities provided, including safety measures, recreational facilities, and support systems designed to ensure a comfortable and conducive living environment for all hostel residents.
Concluding the day’s proceedings, the fourth session featured a hands-on demonstration by Mr Akash Bhuinya, Assistant Project Officer, who introduced the students to the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. He guided them on how to effectively use the platform to manage and monitor their academic schedules, attendance, coursework, and important institutional updates. The session aimed at equipping students with the digital tools necessary for a seamless and organized academic journey at XISS.
The last session of the day was taken by Mr Rajesh Sahay, Consultant, Ex Wipro, Arvind Mills, and distinguished alumnus of the 1988–90 batch of XISS, on the theme "XISS and Way Forward." He emphasized the importance of the 40x40x40 principle—40 weeks, 40 days, and 40 hours of focused effort—as a foundation for success. Stressing mental fitness and decision-making skills, he encouraged students to raise their thresholds for handling uncertainty and ambiguity, aligning with the BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, Incomprehensible) world framework. Mr Sahay also highlighted the value of curiosity and adaptability in a fast-changing technological and professional environment. He urged students to stay responsive to emerging trends and innovation, especially in light of global challenges like climate change, which will shape future leadership. Concluding his session, he reminded students that profit is not a dirty word—a profitable organization not only sustains itself but also creates value through bonuses for employees, dividends for shareholders, and timely fulfilment of its commitments, thereby driving holistic development.
Day 4
On Day 4, Certified Yoga Trainer, Mr Rahul Poddar conducted an enlightening session on Yoga, Health, and Meditation for the students coordinated by Dr Madhumita Singha at XISS. The session emphasized the importance of holistic well-being, focusing on the balance between mind, body, and spirit. He demonstrated simple yet effective yoga techniques and guided students through meditation practices to enhance mental clarity and reduce stress. His insights on healthy living and mindfulness resonated deeply with the students, encouraging them to adopt wellness practices in daily life for sustained academic and personal growth.
Day 6
On Day 6, Dr Nitish Priyadarshi, Assistant Professor at Ranchi University, delivered an insightful lecture on Environment and Sustainability during the induction programme coordinated by Dr Anant Kumar at XISS. The session emphasized the urgent need for sustainable practices to combat climate change and protect natural ecosystems where he highlighted the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stressing the role of youth in achieving environmental equity and responsible consumption. The session inspired students to become conscious global citizens committed to a greener, more sustainable future.
Day 7
On Day 7, XISS hosted a profound induction session on Universal Human Values, led by Swami Antarananda Maharaj, Secretary of Ramakrishna Mission, Morabadi, Ranchi. Coordinated by Dr Shyamal Gomes and Dr KK Bhagat, the session emphasized the significance of compassion, truth, self-discipline, and respect for all beings in building a just society. Swamiji inspired students to nurture inner growth alongside academic excellence, drawing from spiritual teachings and real-life examples. His message resonated deeply with the students, encouraging them to embrace values that foster peace, purpose, and collective well-being.
Day 8
On Day 8, concluding day of the ongoing Orientation Programme, a comprehensive session was conducted by Ms Shruti Sahay, Assistant Officer, Media Cell & Students’ Club Coordinator focusing on key aspects of institutional engagement at XISS. The session covered an overview of the XISS website, emphasizing its structure, resources, and how students can leverage it for academic and extracurricular purposes. A walkthrough of the official social media handles highlighted their role in promoting activities, achievements, and connecting with a broader audience. The vibrant sports culture at XISS was also discussed in detail, outlining the facilities and opportunities for students to excel in physical activities. The discussion also encompassed the dynamic Clubs of XISS, shedding light on their structure, purpose, and the value they add to student life. This interactive session provided students with valuable insights into how to make the most of the institute’s platforms and activities to enhance their overall experience.
