KIIT School of Management (KSOM) hosted its 6th National Business Analytics Konclave on October 11, 2025. Centered on the theme “Beyond Insights: Driving Business Value through Perspective and Cognitive Analytics,” the conclave brought together industry leaders, academicians, and students to explore how data, AI, and cognitive systems are reshaping business decision-making.

Prof. Piyusa P. Das, Conclave Convenor introduced the dignitaries and the theme of the conclave. Prof. Kumar Mohanty, Director, KSOM, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing KSOM’s strong industry-academia collaboration and the importance of data-driven insights in modern management.

Prof. Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, KIIT Deemed to be University, highlighted the concept of “Human in the Loop” in AI systems and the growing need for continuous learning, reskilling, and adaptability. He spoke on how AI has enhanced global business operations while creating new opportunities that demand creativity and ethical awareness.

Mr. Sanjeev Agarwal, Managing Director and CEO of Protiviti Member Firm – Middle East & India delivered the Keynote Address in virtual mode. He shared insights on how Artificial Intelligence is transforming consulting and corporate decision-making. He talked about the 3C framework – curiosity, capability, and character as guiding principles for embracing technology responsibly and building an inquisitive, skilled, and ethical professional journey. He further emphasized that AI should act as a co-pilot, complementing human creativity and empathy rather than replacing them.

Prof. Arvind Tripathy, Dean, KSOM, proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all dignitaries, faculty members, and participants.

The conclave featured a panel discussion on “The Future of Decision-Making: Intuition vs Algorithm,” moderated by Mr. Ranjan Pati, Senior Director, BNY Mellon, with panelists Mr. Adarsh Shrinagesh, Senior Solution Manager (AI Integration Services), IBM; Mr. Raghu Mangaraju, SVP & India Head, Blend 360; Mr. Sandipan Kumar, Director, Algo; and Mr. Shekhar HMP, Chief Mentor & Director, Tejas Network. The discussion delved into how AI and human intelligence can coexist while shaping data-driven strategies and whether technology can truly replicate human judgment and emotional intelligence. Panelists shared insights on AI adoption, predictive analytics, ethical governance, and the importance of transparency and accountability. They agreed that while algorithms enhance precision and efficiency, human empathy, ethics, and contextual understanding remain vital.

Following the discussion, a series of interactive workshops were conducted by distinguished guests, each focusing on emerging trends in analytics and AI. Mr. Sandipan Kumar, Director, Algo, led a session on Prescriptive Analytics in Supply Chain: Making the Best Decision Every Time; Mr. Raghu Mangaraju, SVP & India Head, Blend 360, conducted Cognitive Automation and the Future of Work; Mr. Shekhar HMP, Chief Mentor and Director, Tejas Network, explored Beyond Intuition: How AI is Shaping Smarter HR Decisions; Mr. Alok Vij, Senior Product Leader, Hinge Health, discussed Human-in-the-Loop: The Future of Collaborative Analytics Workflows; Mr. Sitendu Roy, Head (GTM & Pricing Excellence), TATA Motors, presented on GenAI in Decision-Making: Can AI Co-Pilots Truly Drive Business Strategy?; and Mr. Adarsh Shrinagesh, Senior Solution Manager (AI Integration Services), IBM, led Cognitive AI at Work: Automating Complex Business Decisions with Intelligence. The sessions provided students with hands-on exposure to data analytics, AI applications, and strategic thinking, bridging the gap between theory and practice.

The conclave successfully brought together academia and industry to exchange ideas on the evolving role of analytics in driving business value. The event provided a dynamic platform for students to gain real-world perspectives, develop analytical thinking, and prepare for the data-driven future of business.