In the month of July, we warmly welcome our new students to IIMA.

It was 59 years ago, when the first PGP Programme was inaugurated by Shri Balvantray Mehta, the then Chief Minister of Gujarat. The inauguration took place on July 1st, 1964, in the Auditorium of ATIRA.

During that time, the institute received an overwhelming response with 7500 enquiries and over 730 applications. Out of these, over 350 candidates were shortlisted and interviewed. Eventually, 58 students, out of the selected 63 and 15 in the waiting list, confirmed their offer by paying an advance tuition fee of Rs. 200. This diverse group of students came from various parts of India, with backgrounds in Engineering (10%), Science (36%), Arts (31%), and Commerce (23%).

To accommodate the students, the Paldi Housing Board Flats were provided, and the course officially inaugurated on July 1st at 11 a.m. The first week was dedicated to orientation, followed by the administration of special tests. Finally, on July 6, 1964, the regular course began. The journey concluded with the graduation of 48 students in the convocation held in 1966, which included two women.

This month's featured document, attached, showcases some captivating and rare photos from our collection, highlighting the inaugural event, classrooms as well as the hostel and mess facilities from the early days. More photographs are available on this link.

Take a glimpse into the past and witness the beginnings of our esteemed institution.