March 08, 1937 – July 08, 2026
PGP 1968
Raj Singh Nirwan was born in 1937 and spent his formative and
educational years in Jodhpur and Jaipur. He started his professional life in the 1950s/60s as a Personal Assistant to the then Home Minister of
Rajasthan. Alongside he continued to pursue his studies and obtained a LLB degree from the University of Rajasthan.
His disciplined way of life and determination enabled him to continue his studies, and he was selected for the Rajasthan Administrative Service in the year 1965. However, breaking away from the typecast mould, he joined IIM Ahmedabad in the year 1966 for the PGP programme. Upon completing the Programme and graduating from IIMA, the Government of Rajasthan granted him an out-of-turn appointment with a mandate to revive the sick industries of the State. He fulfilled this responsibility and delivered on the mandate remarkably well.
Thereafter, the Government of India selected him for its public sector
undertaking Hindustan Copper Limited. He rose through the ranks and
was promoted to the position of Director (Personnel) by dint of his hard
work and dedication. His exceptional work at the Khetri Copper Complex
brought about many improvements, especially to the workers there. Later he was selected to head the National Textile Corporation as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD). He retired in the year 1995.
After retirement, he worked as Executive Director of Shree Digvijaya
Cement Company Limited in Sikka, Gujarat. He travelled extensively to get a world view and be abreast of developments in his field of work. After a successful stint at Sikka, his desire to serve his home state brought him back to Rajasthan. Recognizing his experience and administrative capabilities, the Government of Rajasthan appointed him as a Member of the Rajasthan State Planning Commission – a role in which he truly distinguished himself.
Raj Singh has been a guide to many and an inspiration/mentor to
numerous individuals. He provided unconditional help to all those who
came to him with difficulties.
He was known for his affectionate nature to all his IIMA batchmates and hosted them whenever they visited his city. In spite of his health issues, he continued to stay in touch with his batchmates through the batch’s WhatsApp group, where his daily postings of wisdom were highly appreciated by everyone.
His wife, Smt. Snehlata Nirwan was always by his side during his long
journey of selfless and noble deeds. She shared all the family
responsibilities with him.
Despite his busy professional life, he was unerringly meticulous in fulfilling all his family responsibilities. He was a father figure for the entire family and especially encouraged and supported all the women of the family for higher education.
The 1968 batch was eagerly looking forward to celebrating Raj Singh’s 90th birthday during their proposed Reunion in March 2027. But God had other plans. We all miss you, Raj Singh.
