This alliance combines CSIR-IIIM's strength in natural product research, biotechnology and drug development with IIM Jammu's management education, business research and policy-making based on innovation.

In front of top authorities and academic members from both schools CSIR-IIIM Director Dr. Zabeer Ahmed along with IIM Jammu Director Prof. B.S. Sahay signed the Memorandum of Understanding.

The collaboration is designed to facilitate collaborative research and interdisciplinary projects particularly in the area of herbal and natural products. The emphasis will be on innovation management and converting scientific research into marketable products and scalable solutions. The agreement also has initiatives for student and academic exchange, faculty and scientist collaboration and co-hosting of seminars, workshops, conferences and policy dialogue.

Dr. Zabeer Ahmed highlighted that this collaboration is a notable move towards synergising scientific research and management acumen. According to him, it would assist in propelling fields like pharmaceutical commercialisation, sustainable agri-tech and biotech entrepreneurship ultimately for the good of society.

Dr. B.S. Sahay said that the MoU is a significant step towards bridging the gap between science discoveries and business conduct.

To oversee the collaboration, an Advisory Board comprising the Directors of the two institutions will oversee the progress and ensure that the collaboration remains geared towards mutual objectives.