60 students begin a four-year journey to build India’s next generation of AI, analytics and technology leaders
The Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIM Lucknow) has welcomed the inaugural cohort of its first undergraduate programme, the BS in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics. The new programme began on 17 August 2026 with a batch of 60 students, marking IIM Lucknow’s entry into undergraduate education focused on artificial intelligence, data-driven decision-making and business management.
The inaugural cohort is expected to graduate in 2030. Their education will be closely linked to India’s growing AI ecosystem and the long-term national vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. The programme is intended to develop professionals who can combine technical knowledge with business understanding, leadership and responsible decision-making.
Programme launched at AI conclave
The BS programme was launched at the Bharat Bodhan AI Conclave 2026, held in Delhi as part of the India AI Impact Summit 2026. The induction event brought together leaders from technology, research, defence, industry and public policy.
The speakers included Mr. Sandeep Saini, Business Head, Sovereign AI Business, HCLTech; Ms. Sheena Rani R, DS & DG, MCC, DRDO; Dr. Manish Gupta, Senior Director, Google DeepMind; and Shri Alok Kumar, Principal Secretary, IT and Electronics, Planning and Programme Implementation. Dr. Gupta participated virtually.
Their diverse perspectives gave students an understanding of how AI is being applied across areas such as enterprise technology, defence systems, scientific research, public administration and industrial innovation.
Combining AI with business education
The programme has been designed around the growing need for professionals who understand both artificial intelligence and business analytics. AI is increasingly influencing marketing, finance, operations, healthcare, manufacturing, public policy and entrepreneurship. However, organisations also need professionals who can identify business problems, interpret data, manage teams and convert technology into meaningful outcomes.
IIM Lucknow’s programme aims to provide students with exposure to AI concepts, analytics, business strategy, management principles and practical applications. According to reports, students may also have an opportunity to pursue a Tech MBA after the third year, enabling a possible dual-degree pathway.
The interdisciplinary structure is expected to prepare graduates for careers in data science, AI product management, business intelligence, technology consulting, analytics, entrepreneurship and digital strategy.
Message to the inaugural batch
Addressing the students, Prof. M.P. Gupta, Director, IIM Lucknow, emphasised that the programme was created as part of a larger vision to contribute to India’s growth story. He encouraged the students to understand the responsibility associated with being the first cohort.
He said the programme was strongly built around the idea of creating a definite impact on India’s development. Being part of the inaugural batch also gives students the opportunity to help shape the culture and legacy of the new programme.
Shri Alok Kumar said AI-focused programmes would become increasingly sought after as the technology expands across sectors. He noted that students from the first batch had secured a unique place in IIM Lucknow’s history.
Developing future-ready talent
Prof. Sanjay K. Singh, Dean of Programmes, encouraged students to make full use of learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. He advised them to use technology as a tool while maintaining critical thinking and independent judgement.
Prof. Suresh Kumar Jakhar, Chairperson of the BS AI and Business Analytics programme, highlighted the unique distinction of the inaugural cohort. He urged students to cultivate focused attention, learn continuously and use their time effectively.
The launch of the BS AI and Business Analytics programme reflects the changing role of management institutions in India. As AI reshapes careers and industries, IIM Lucknow is building an academic pathway that connects technology, analytics and management. The first cohort now begins a four-year journey that could help shape India’s AI capabilities for decades to come.
Conclusion
The launch of IIM Lucknow’s BS in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics marks an important expansion of the institute into undergraduate education and reflects the growing convergence of technology and management. With its inaugural batch of 60 students beginning the four-year programme in August 2026, the course aims to develop professionals who can combine AI and analytics expertise with business strategy, leadership and responsible decision-making.
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly important across industries, the programme could open new career pathways in data science, AI product management, business intelligence, technology consulting and entrepreneurship. For the inaugural cohort, the journey is also an opportunity to shape the identity and legacy of a programme designed to contribute to India’s evolving AI ecosystem and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
FAQs
1. What is the IIM Lucknow BS in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics programme?
The BS in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics is IIM Lucknow’s undergraduate programme combining artificial intelligence, data analytics, business management and decision-making. It is designed to prepare students for technology-driven business roles.
2. When did the first batch of IIM Lucknow’s BS AI and Business Analytics programme begin?
The inaugural batch began its academic journey on 17 August 2026.
3. How many students are part of the first IIM Lucknow BS AI and Business Analytics batch?
The first cohort consists of 60 students, who are expected to graduate in 2030.
4. What career opportunities can students pursue after the programme?
Graduates may explore careers in areas such as data science, artificial intelligence, AI product management, business intelligence, technology consulting, analytics, digital strategy and entrepreneurship.
5. Is there a Tech MBA option with the IIM Lucknow BS AI and Business Analytics programme?
According to reports, students may have an opportunity to pursue a Tech MBA after the third year, potentially providing a dual-degree pathway. Students should check the latest official IIM Lucknow programme guidelines for eligibility and structure.