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PGDM Rural Management: Admission, Fees Structure, Syllabus, Placement, Salary 2023

PGDM in Rural Management PGDM in Rural Management- What is PGDM in Rural Management? PGDM in Rural Management is a specialized program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the challenges faced by rural communities in India. PGDM in Rural Management aims to produce management professionals who can effectively manage […]

 Kanhaiya Kumar
16/12/2022
|16/12/2022 | Share:
 Kanhaiya Kumar 16/12/2022
pgdm rural management

PGDM in Rural Management

PGDM in Rural Management- What is PGDM in Rural Management? PGDM in Rural Management is a specialized program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the challenges faced by rural communities in India. PGDM in Rural Management aims to produce management professionals who can effectively manage rural development projects and work towards the betterment of rural India.

The PGDM Rural Management curriculum focuses on developing students’ understanding of rural India, its economy, and its social and cultural dynamics. Students are exposed to various aspects of rural development, including agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and community development. They are also trained in areas such as leadership, communication, strategic thinking, and decision-making, which are essential for the effective management of rural projects.

PGDM Rural Management typically runs for two years and consists of four semesters. PGDM Rural Management syllabus- The first two semesters focus on core management courses such as marketing, finance, human resource management, and operations management. The third semester includes specialized rural management courses such as rural entrepreneurship, rural finance, and rural marketing. The final semester is dedicated to a summer internship project and a final project on a rural development topic.

Graduates of PGDM in Rural Management have diverse career options. They can work with various organizations such as non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government agencies, rural development organizations, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. They can also work as consultants, or researchers, or start their own ventures focused on rural development.

The PGDM in Rural Management program provides students with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to make a meaningful contribution to the development of rural India. It is an excellent choice for those who are passionate about social impact and want to build a career in rural development.

PGDM in Rural Management Quick Question

Q. Why MBA in Rural Management?

Ans. MBA in Rural Management is a postgraduate management program that focuses on imparting management education and training to students who wish to work in the rural sector. MBA in Rural Management is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and implement sustainable and innovative solutions for the economic and social development of rural areas.

 The curriculum of the MBA in Rural Management covers various aspects of rural development, including rural marketing, agriculture, agribusiness, rural entrepreneurship, natural resource management, and rural finance. MBA in Rural Management also includes courses on management principles and practices, research methodology, business communication, and organizational behavior.

Graduates with MBA in Rural Management can pursue careers in a variety of fields such as rural development agencies, government organizations, NGOs, agricultural cooperatives, micro-finance institutions, and corporate social responsibility departments of companies. They can work as rural development officers, project managers, rural marketers, social entrepreneurs, agriculture consultants, or rural finance managers, among other roles.

 MBA in Rural Management provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the rural economy and its challenges and equips them with the skills to work toward the sustainable development of rural areas.

Highlights of PGDM in Rural Management

PGDM Rural Management is a specialized management program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to manage and develop rural areas.

 Some of the highlights of this program include:

  • Rural Development Focus: PGDM Rural Management is a program that is specifically focused on the development of rural areas. Students are taught to identify the needs of rural areas and to design and implement development programs that address these needs.
  • Management Skills: PGDM Rural Management provides students with a solid foundation in management principles and practices. They learn how to manage resources effectively, lead teams, make strategic decisions, and communicate effectively.
  • Social Awareness: PGDM in Rural Management students are encouraged to develop a deep understanding of the social, cultural, and economic realities of rural areas. This helps them to design and implement development programs that are sensitive to local needs and are culturally appropriate.
  • Internship and Field Work: Students are required to complete internships and fieldwork in rural areas. This provides them with hands-on experience in real-world situations, and helps them to develop practical skills that can be applied in their future careers.
  • Career Opportunities: Graduates of PGDM Rural Management have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. They can work in government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), international development organisations, and private sector companies that are engaged in rural development.
  • Entrepreneurship: PGDM in Rural Management also provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to start and manage their own rural development ventures. They learn how to identify business opportunities, develop business plans, and secure funding for their ventures.     
PGDM Rural Management Course levelPost Graduate
Exam typeSemester
Admission ProcessEntrance Exam or Direct admission
Eligibility criteria45% to 50% marks in bachelors in degree
Duration2year
Average feeINR 4 to 10 Lakhs
Entrance ExamCAT, MAT, CMAT, ATMA
Career ProspectSocial Entrepreneur, Government Jobs, Rural Development Manager
Average starting salaryINR 6 to 8 Lakhs per annum

PGDM in Rural Management Admission Process

  • Eligibility Criteria: The candidate should have completed a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with a minimum aggregate of 50% marks. Some institutes may also require work experience in the relevant field.
  • Entrance Exam: The candidate needs to appear for any of the national-level management entrance exams like CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, ATMA, etc., and score the minimum required percentile to be eligible for the selection process.
  • Shortlisting: Based on the entrance exam scores, candidates are shortlisted for the next round of the selection process, which can be a Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI), or Written Ability Test (WAT).
  • Final Selection: After the GD/PI/WAT round, the final selection is made based on the candidate’s overall performance in the selection process, work experience (if any), academic background, and other criteria.
  • Admission Offer: Selected candidates receive an admission offer from the institute, which they can accept by paying the admission fee within the given deadline.    

PGDM in Rural Management- What are the eligibility criteria for PGDM in Rural Management?

The eligibility criteria for PGDM Rural Management may vary from institution to institution. However, some general eligibility criteria are:

  • Academic Qualification: Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. The minimum percentage required may vary, but it is usually around 50% or more.
  • Entrance Exam: Most institutions require applicants to have a valid score in a national or state-level entrance exam. Some of the common exams accepted for PGDM in Rural Management are CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, ATMA, etc.
  • Work Experience: Some institutions may require applicants to have prior work experience, especially in the development sector. The minimum requirement may vary, but it is usually around one or two years.
  • Language Proficiency: Applicants should have proficiency in English, as most of the course material is in English. Some institutions may also require proficiency in the local language of the rural area.
  • Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for PGDM Rural Management. However, most institutions prefer applicants who are below the age of 30.

PGDM in Rural Management Syllabus

What is Rural Management Course? The syllabus of PGDM in Rural Management may vary slightly depending on the institute offering the program.

  • Business Communication
  • Financial Accounting and Management
  • Microeconomics for Managers
  • Rural Development: Policies and Programmes
  • Management Information System
  • Quantitative Techniques for Managers
  • Agricultural and Rural Marketing
  • Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Financial Management
  • Operations and Supply Chain Management
  • Macro Economics and Economic Environment
  • Rural Livelihoods and Institutions
  • Strategic Management
  • Social Entrepreneurship
  • Project Management and Business Planning

Apart from these core subjects, there may be electives and specializations offered by the institute, such as Agri-Business Management, Rural Finance, Livelihood, and Social Entrepreneurship.

PGDM in Rural Management Syllabus Semester-wise:

First Semester:

1.  Management Principles and Practices

2.  Financial Accounting and Analysis

3.  Marketing Management

4.  Business Statistics

5.  Organizational Behaviour

6.  Managerial Economics

7.  Business Communication

8.  Rural Sociology and Anthropology

9.  Rural Economy and Policies

10. Rural Development Theories and Practices

Second Semester:

1.  Operations Management

2.  Financial Management

3.  Human Resource Management

4.  Research Methodology and Statistics

5.  Strategic Management

6.  Management Information Systems

7.  Business Environment and Ethics

8.  Micro Finance

9.  Agriculture and Allied Sectors

10. Entrepreneurship Development

Third Semester:

1.  Business Law and Governance

2.  Project Management

3.  Rural Marketing and Supply Chain Management

4.  Rural Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Management

5.  Watershed Management and Natural Resource Management

6.  Rural Infrastructure Management

7.  Rural Health and Education

8.  ICT for Rural Development

9.  Livelihood and Food Security

10.   Electives

Fourth Semester:

1.  Rural Livelihoods and Sustainable Development

2.  Climate Change and Disaster Management

3.  Rural Development Projects and Programmes

4.  Agribusiness Management

5.  Participatory Management and Community Mobilisation

6.  Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting

7.  Financial Inclusion and Social Entrepreneurship

8.  E-Governance for Rural Development

9.  Rural Tourism

10. Electives

PGDM in Rural Management Scope

PGDM in Rural Management is a specialized postgraduate management program that focuses on developing managerial skills and expertise in the context of rural and agricultural development. It is a comprehensive course that is designed to cater to the needs of the rural development sector and train students to become capable professionals who can handle the challenges of rural management.

PGDM Rural Management Scope is vast and varied. Rural development is a critical area of concern for governments across the world, and there is a huge demand for skilled professionals in this field. With the increasing emphasis on sustainable development and the need for inclusive growth, the role of rural management professionals has become more critical than ever before.

  • Rural Development Officer: They work with government and non-governmental organizations to design and implement programs that promote rural development.
  • Agriculture Manager: They oversee the production and distribution of agricultural products and work to increase agricultural productivity.
  • Rural Marketing Manager: They develop marketing strategies to promote products and services in rural areas and increase their demand.
  • Social Development Manager: They work to improve the quality of life in rural communities by developing and implementing social welfare programs
  • Environmental Manager: They work to protect the environment and promote sustainable development in rural areas.
  • Rural Finance Manager: They manage financial services such as micro-finance, insurance, and credit to support rural development.
  • Rural Entrepreneur: They start and manage their own rural enterprises, such as agribusinesses and social enterprises.

PGDM in Rural Management Job Opportunities

PGDM Rural Management is a specialized management program that prepares students for leadership roles in the rural sector. PGDM Rural Management course covers various aspects of rural development, such as agriculture, rural finance, rural marketing, social development, and environmental management. The course provides students with a deep understanding of the rural economy and equips them with the knowledge and skills required to address the challenges faced by the rural sector.

There are several career opportunities available to graduates of PGDM in Rural Management. Some of these opportunities are:

  • Rural Development Officer: They work with government and non-governmental organizations to design and implement programs that promote rural development. They are responsible for identifying the needs of the rural community and developing solutions to address them.
  • Agriculture Manager: They oversee the production and distribution of agricultural products and work to increase agricultural productivity. They are responsible for managing the supply chain of agricultural products from the farm to the market.
  • Rural Marketing Manager: They develop marketing strategies to promote products and services in rural areas and increase their demand. They are responsible for creating awareness about the benefits of the products and services and increasing their accessibility to the rural population.
  • Social Development Manager: They work to improve the quality of life in rural communities by developing and implementing social welfare programs. They are responsible for identifying the social problems faced by the rural population and developing solutions to address them.
  • Environmental Manager: They work to protect the environment and promote sustainable development in rural areas. They are responsible for implementing environmental policies and practices that promote the sustainable use of natural resources.
  • Rural Finance Manager: They manage financial services such as micro-finance, insurance, and credit to support rural development. They are responsible for providing financial services to the rural population and promoting financial inclusion.
  • Rural Entrepreneur: They start and manage their own rural enterprises, such as agribusinesses and social enterprises. They are responsible for identifying business opportunities in the rural sector and developing sustainable business models to address them.

PGDM in Rural Management offers a wide range of career opportunities to graduates. The course equips students with the knowledge and skills required to contribute towards the sustainable development of rural areas and communities. Graduates can choose to work with government and non-governmental organizations, rural development agencies, banks, and other financial institutions, or start their own rural enterprises.

PGDM in Rural Management Top Colleges in India

InstitutionsLocationAverage fee of INR
Institute of Management Studies (IMS)Ghaziabad7.45 Lakhs
School of Rural Management, KIIT UniversityOdisha7-8 Lakhs
Xavier Institute of Social Service (XISS)Ranchi8.50 Lakhs
KIIT School of Rural ManagementBhubaneswar8 Lakhs
Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA)Anand Gujarat13.50 Lakhs
Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM)Pune17.25 Lakhs
National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR)Hyderabad7 Lakhs

How can I pursue PGDM in Rural Management in Uttar Pradesh? Here is a list of Institutes in Uttar Pradesh to pursue PGDM in Rural Management in Uttar Pradesh:

  • Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), Uttar Pradesh
  • Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Ghaziabad
  • Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), Greater Noida
  • Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida
  • United Institute of Management, Greater Noida
  • KIET School of Management (KSM), Ghaziabad
  • Institute of Advanced Management & Research (IAMR), Ghaziabad
  • Shri Ram Murti Smarak International Business School (SRMS IBS), Lucknow
  • Accurate Institute of Management and Technology, Greater Noida

PGDM in Rural Management in India VS Abroad

PGDM in Rural Management is a specialized management program that focuses on developing managerial and leadership skills for the rural sector. PGDM Rural Management is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to address the challenges faced by the rural sector and contribute towards its development. While there are similarities between the course structure and curriculum of PGDM in Rural Management in India and abroad, there are some significant differences between the two.

In India, PGDM in Rural Management is offered by several reputed institutes such as the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), Xavier Institute of Management Bhubaneswar (XIMB), Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), and many more. The course curriculum in India emphasizes rural development issues specific to the country such as agriculture, poverty alleviation, healthcare, sanitation, and education. The focus is also on developing a deep understanding of the Indian rural economy, governance structure, and policy framework.

On the other hand, PGDM in Rural Management abroad focuses on rural development issues that are specific to the region where the institute is located. For instance, in the USA, the course curriculum emphasizes rural development issues such as community development, resource management, and economic development. In Europe, the course curriculum focuses on rural development issues such as sustainable agriculture, rural tourism, and rural entrepreneurship.

In terms of career opportunities, PGDM in Rural Management in India provides students with opportunities to work with government and non-governmental organizations, rural development agencies, banks, and other financial institutions. In contrast, PGDM in Rural Management abroad provides students with opportunities to work with international organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, and other development agencies.

In terms of the course fees, PGDM in Rural Management abroad is comparatively more expensive than the course in India. Additionally, the living expenses in countries abroad are also higher than those in India.

PGDM in Rural Management IGNOU

PGDM in Rural Management offered by IGNOU is a two-year full-time management program designed to develop managerial and leadership skills for the rural sector. IGNOU is a leading distance education university in India that offers a wide range of management programs, including PGDM in Rural Management. The program aims to develop competent rural managers who can contribute to the development of the rural economy and improve the quality of life of rural communities.

PGDM in Rural Management IGNOU covers various aspects of rural development, such as rural finance, agriculture, rural marketing, social development, and environmental management. The course structure is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the rural economy and the challenges faced by the rural sector.

PGDM in Rural Management is divided into four semesters, and each semester includes various subjects related to rural management. The subjects covered in the program include Rural Development: Concept and Strategies, Rural Development: Planning and Management, Rural Marketing, Rural Entrepreneurship, Rural Finance, and Project Management. The program also includes fieldwork, which allows students to apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world rural development projects.

  • Analytical Skills: Students are trained to analyze the rural economy and identify the opportunities and challenges faced by the rural sector. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to conduct research and collect data on rural development issues.
  • Leadership Skills: Students are trained to lead and manage teams in the rural sector. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to motivate and inspire their teams to achieve organizational goals.
  • Communication Skills: Students are trained to communicate effectively with rural communities, stakeholders, and policymakers. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to develop effective communication strategies to promote rural development.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Students are trained to identify and solve problems faced by rural communities. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to develop innovative solutions to address rural development issues

PGDM Rural Management is suitable for students who are interested in rural development, agriculture, and social entrepreneurship. The program is also suitable for professionals working in the rural sector who wish to enhance their managerial and leadership skills.

After completing the program, students can pursue a career in various fields related to rural development, such as rural development agencies, non-governmental organizations, government departments, banks, and financial institutions. Graduates can also start their own rural enterprises or pursue higher education in the field of rural management.

The eligibility criteria for the program are a bachelor’s degree in any discipline with at least 50% marks for general category candidates and 45% marks for reserved category candidates. The admission process includes an entrance test and an interview conducted by IGNOU.

Comparison between MBA in Rural Management and PGDM in Rural Management

Which one is better MBA or PGDM in Rural Management? Both MBA and PGDM in Rural Management are postgraduate management programs that focus on rural development and management. The choice between the two depends on various factors, including the individual’s career goals, interests, and the program’s curriculum, reputation, and accreditation.

MBA is a degree program offered by universities, while PGDM is a diploma program offered by autonomous institutes. MBA programs generally have a more theoretical approach and are affiliated with a university, which provides a broader perspective on various aspects of management, while PGDM programs are more industry-oriented, with a focus on practical applications of management theories.

When it comes to Rural Management, both MBA and PGDM programs provide similar course content and knowledge of the rural sector. However, PGDM programs may offer more flexibility in terms of curriculum design, course structure, and pedagogy, which can be more responsive to industry trends and emerging issues.

Moreover, PGDM programs are generally offered by reputed institutes that have a strong industry interface, which provides ample opportunities for networking, internships, and placements. In contrast, MBA programs are offered by universities that may have a more academic approach and fewer opportunities for industry exposure.

Overall, both MBA and PGDM in Rural Management can provide a strong foundation for a career in the rural sector. The choice between the two depends on the individual’s personal preferences, career aspirations, and the institute’s reputation, accreditation, and curriculum design.

 PGDM in Rural Management Conclusion

In conclusion, rural management is a crucial field that focuses on the sustainable development of rural areas and communities. Rural areas are the backbone of the economy in many countries, and they play a vital role in the overall development of a nation. Rural management aims to promote economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability in rural areas.

The field of rural management covers a wide range of areas, including agriculture, rural finance, rural marketing, rural entrepreneurship, social development, and environmental management. Rural management professionals work towards identifying the challenges faced by rural communities and developing innovative solutions to address them.

The demand for rural management professionals is increasing rapidly, as there is a growing need for professionals who can address the complex challenges faced by rural communities. The field offers a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors, including rural development agencies, non-governmental organisations, government departments, banks, and financial institutions.

A PGDM in Rural Management is an excellent way for students to gain the knowledge and skills required to pursue a career in rural management. The program is designed to develop analytical, leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills among students. The program covers various aspects of rural development and includes fieldwork, which allows students to apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world rural development projects.

In India, there are many universities and institutes that offer PGDM in Rural Management. These institutions provide world-class education and training to students who wish to pursue a career in rural management. Some of the leading institutions in India that offer PGDM in Rural Management include IRMA, XIMB, TISS, and IGNOU.

In addition to India, there is also a growing demand for rural management professionals globally. The skills and knowledge gained through a PGDM in Rural Management can be applied in various international settings, making it a global degree.

Overall, the field of rural management is an exciting and challenging field that offers a wide range of career opportunities. The field is essential for the sustainable development of rural areas and communities, and the demand for professionals in this field is expected to grow in the coming years. A PGDM in Rural Management is an excellent way for students to gain the knowledge and skills required to pursue a career in this field and contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas and communities.

Frequently Asked Questions About PGDM in Rural Management

Q. What is rural management?

Ans. Rural management is the study and practice of managing resources, development, and services in rural areas. It involves the application of management principles and practices to improve the social, economic, and environmental conditions of rural areas.

Q. What are the objectives of rural management?

Ans. The primary objective of rural management is to create sustainable and inclusive development in rural areas by improving the livelihoods and well-being of the rural population. This involves promoting economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability through the effective management of natural resources, infrastructure, and institutions.

Other objectives of rural management include promoting rural entrepreneurship, reducing poverty, improving access to education and healthcare, and enhancing the quality of life in rural communities. Rural management also seeks to empower local communities and enable them to participate in the development process by promoting participatory decision-making and community-based management.

Q. What are the key challenges faced in rural management?

Ans. The key challenges faced in rural management are:

  •  Limited infrastructure: Rural areas often have inadequate infrastructure, including roads, electricity, water supply, and communication facilities, which can hinder economic development.
  • Limited access to finance: Rural communities often lack access to formal financial services, which can limit their ability to invest in income-generating activities.
  • Limited access to education and healthcare: Rural communities often have limited access to quality education and healthcare services, which can impact their overall well-being and economic opportunities.
  • Dependence on agriculture: Many rural communities are heavily reliant on agriculture, which can be impacted by factors such as climate change, market fluctuations, and land degradation.
  • Lack of market integration: Rural communities may be isolated from larger markets, which can limit their ability to sell goods and services and access essential resources.
  • Limited human resources: Rural areas may have a shortage of skilled labor and professionals, which can limit their ability to implement effective development strategies.
  • Social and cultural barriers: Rural communities may have deeply ingrained social and cultural norms that can impede development efforts, such as gender inequality or caste-based discrimination.

Q. What are the different approaches to rural development?

Ans. There are several approaches to rural development, and the most effective approach depends on the specific needs and characteristics of the rural area in question. Here are some of the common approaches to rural development:

  • Top-down approach: This approach involves the government or a centralised authority taking the lead in implementing development projects in rural areas. This approach is often criticised for not considering the needs and perspectives of the local communities.
  • Bottom-up approach: This approach emphasises community participation and local decision-making in development projects. The idea is that communities are better equipped to identify their own needs and priorities, and can take a more active role in the development process.
  • Integrated approach: This approach combines top-down and bottom-up approaches by involving multiple stakeholders, including government, civil society organisations, and private sector actors, in the development process. The goal is to create a more comprehensive and sustainable development strategy.
  • Market-oriented approach: This approach focuses on creating economic opportunities in rural areas by promoting market-oriented development strategies. This can involve initiatives such as developing agribusiness, promoting tourism, or supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.
  • Environmental approach: This approach focuses on sustainable development that priorities environmental conservation and management. It can involve initiatives such as sustainable land use, conservation of natural resources, and promotion of renewable energy.

Q. What are the different sectors that contribute to rural development?

Ans. Rural development is a complex and multifaceted process that involves a wide range of sectors and stakeholders. The different sectors that contribute to rural development include:

  • Agriculture: Agriculture is the backbone of rural economies and plays a crucial role in rural development. It includes crop cultivation, livestock rearing, forestry, and fisheries.
  •  Rural Infrastructure: Rural infrastructure includes physical infrastructure such as roads, water supply, sanitation, electricity, and communication networks. Improving infrastructure can boost economic development and improve the quality of life in rural areas.
  • Education and Training: Education and training are critical for enhancing the human capital of rural populations. This includes basic education, vocational training, and skills development.
  • Health: Access to basic health services is critical for the well-being of rural populations. This includes access to primary healthcare, hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.
  •  Rural Finance: Access to finance is essential for rural development. It includes access to credit, savings, insurance, and other financial services.
  • Governance: Good governance is essential for rural development. This includes effective governance structures, institutions, and policies that promote rural development.
  • Environment: Environmental sustainability is critical for rural development. It includes the conservation of natural resources, protection of biodiversity, and sustainable use of natural resources.
  • Tourism: Tourism can contribute to rural development by generating income and employment opportunities in rural areas.             

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