The function was preceded by an invocation and ceremonial lamp lighting marking the beginning of a scholastic journey based on quality and introspection. Professor Satish S. Maheswarappa, who is the Dean (Academic) delivered the welcome address setting the scholarly tone and emphasising the institute's commitment to integrated management education.

IIM Tiruchirappalli Director, Dr Pawan Kumar Singh, addressed the freshers and the parents, stressing the need to continuously learn and evolve as people. He described the IIM experience as one of tough self-exploration urging students to embrace challenges and curiosity. In a gesture of respect for families, he appreciated the parents' contribution towards inculcating the values and the groundwork that facilitated their children's entry to the institute.

Shri Sunil Kumar, Global Business Centre Head of the World Bank Group's Chennai, gave the keynote. Based on his international experience in the Global Capability Centres Mr Kumar spoke about the evolution of skills the increasing role of automation, including AI and the emergence of new roles in a digitally led GCC industry. He stressed that to thrive in a rapidly changing world, students need to blend domain knowledge with ethical decision-making, soft skills and flexibility. 

The ceremony featured awards of Director's Merit List (DML) Certificates, which acknowledge scholastic achievement in the PGPM, PGPM-HR, DPM and EDPM. The event concluded with a vote of thanks and the National Anthem marking a reflective and inspirational beginning to the academic year.