Students of the HSE Graduate School of Business took part in the Spring School in India
From March 31 to April 8, 29 undergraduate and graduate students from the HSE Graduate School of Business took part in a Spring School in India as part of their academic program. The program was organized by the National School of Business (NSB Bangalore), and upon completion, each participant received 3 ECTS credits based on their engagement and completed assignments. For the Graduate School of Business, this marked its first large-scale immersion into the realities of the Indian economy and culture - an experience that exceeded all expectations.
The intensive program consisted of three interconnected components: academic lectures, industrial visits, and a cultural program. Together, they provided a comprehensive understanding of India’s unique business environment, where cutting-edge management practices and high technologies are interwoven with diverse cultural codes, traditional Indian approaches to production, human resource management, and corporate social responsibility. For example, visits to Hindu temples and NGOs engaged in social entrepreneurship were part of the immersion into India’s distinctive business culture. It is no coincidence that some of the world’s largest multinational corporations (Bosch, Texas Instruments, Huawei, Morgan Stanley, and others) are partners of the NGO Akshaya Patra, which provides meals to 3 million Indian schoolchildren every day. In India, successful entrepreneurship is impossible without active participation in socially responsible initiatives aimed at combating poverty.
The modern industrial enterprises visited by GSB students—including the electrical engineering firm SEG Automotive, the textile company Page Industries, the engineering company TVS Motors, the pharmaceutical giant Biocon, and several others—not only impressed with their advanced production technologies, but also with their strong focus on social impact. These are truly global leaders: SEG Automotive counts BMW, Renault, and AvtoVAZ among its clients; TVS Motors exports motorcycles to Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa, and is a direct competitor of Honda; Biocon is one of the world’s leading producers of insulin and cancer drugs.
In addition, students explored the high-tech cluster of Bangalore’s Electronic City and visited the engineering firm L&T Technology Services, whose digital solutions are used in the development of India’s space and nuclear programs.
Just next door to these high-tech firms are completely different types of enterprises that seem to transport visitors back to the era of Fordism—or even to pre-industrial times. For example, this is how the production of traditional sandalwood soap and cane sugar is organized.
The culmination of the program was a farewell evening at NSB, during which GSB students were awarded certificates and enjoyed an incredible concert by NSB students, who showcased a vivid array of traditional dances from across India’s many states. GSB students also joined in the celebration, performing a lively rendition of “Katyusha” to enthusiastic applause from Indian students and faculty.
India is striking not only for its contrasts, but also for its enormous potential and competitive advantages across a wide range of industries—from ICT to textiles, from high-tech engineering to woodworking, from mechanical engineering to agriculture. Most importantly, India demonstrates a strong willingness to cooperate and a friendly attitude toward Russia.
Deputy Director of GSB
The student school in Bangalore was an invaluable experience for all participants. It not only revealed the multifaceted nature of India, but also helped to break many stereotypes about the country. We are deeply grateful to our partner, the National School of Business in Bangalore, for the flawless organization of the visit, the rich program, and the openness and hospitality. We hope that future groups of GSB students will also be able to explore the realities of Indian business and culture, and that Indian students will get to know Russia,
Dr. Sridharamurthy
NSB President
On behalf of the entire team at NSB, I want to sincerely thank HSE GSB for giving us the opportunity to host and organize the Spring Program. It was a pleasure working with you, and we truly valued the experience of engaging with your students. We look forward to building on this collaboration and exploring more opportunities together — both through future Spring Programs and student exchange initiatives
Rodrigo Garcia Solis
International Business, Bachelor’s, 1st year
The Spring School in India exceeded all my expectations. It was amazing to visit such large companies as TVS Motors and SEG, and to work with local soap and sugar producers. This trip gave me the opportunity to truly immerse myself in the working culture of a vast country that is predicted to become one of the world’s largest economies in the coming years. I was able to see firsthand the enormous business opportunities opening up in India.
From a cultural point of view, it was a very interesting and, in many ways, new experience. Some things seemed strange, others — very pleasant, but overall, the Indian people turned out to be incredibly kind and hospitable. It was fun to interact with them, and contrary to common stereotypes, I often noticed how serious and organized they are when it comes to things that really matter to them. Communicating and making connections in India was easy and enjoyable.
Ekaterina Andrianova
Strategic Management and Consulting, Master’s, 1st year
My first trip to India was an unforgettable discovery, showing me the depth of hospitality and richness of culture in this amazing country. The industrial part of the program was fascinating and informative — we visited many factories and facilities where we explored the specifics of local management and learned about modern technologies. I especially enjoyed the visits to the Jockey and TVS Motors factories, where we learned about operational processes and saw impressive automation in action. I was particularly struck by the ESG agenda of the companies, which actively invest in the safety and well-being of their female employees and their children. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the organizers for thoroughly planning our trip. They made the entire experience truly comfortable and memorable. India is a country that will leave a lasting impression on everyone!
Ekaterina Biriukova
International Business, Bachelor’s, 1st year
We visited local companies and production facilities, including agricultural ones, spoke with employees, asked questions, and some of us even tried working on the production line. These visits were not only educational but also diplomatic: interacting with representatives of another culture—especially one as unique as India’s—requires a high level of diplomacy, which is often more important than the actual content of negotiations. We were impressed by the openness, hospitality, and engagement of the Indian side, which made every effort to organize our rich and meaningful program. The trip was comfortable, safe, and filled with vivid impressions.
Margarita Godyna
Business Administration, Bachelor’s, 3rd year
This trip was an unforgettable dive into the culture, business, and traditions of India.
The excursions to companies like Page Industries and SEG Automotive provided valuable insights into how business is done in India. The lectures on cloud technologies, logistics, and the specifics of the local market were extremely useful. We visited iconic sites such as Bangalore Palace, Isha Foundation, and Hendrizzett Park, which allowed us to feel the richness of India’s history and spirituality. The yoga sessions with Shri Avish Kumar were especially memorable — they brought not only new knowledge but also a sense of inner harmony. The cultural evening with both Indian and Russian students, as well as our shared trips and meals, brought the group closer together. This program exceeded expectations! It perfectly combined learning, cultural immersion, and informal communication.
Daria Efimova
Business Informatics, Bachelor’s, 1st year
This trip gave me more than just professional knowledge — it gave me new experiences and a new perspective on another culture. It turned many of my beliefs 360 degrees. What I’ll remember most are the people — the warmth with which we were welcomed and the heartfelt goodbyes. I will never forget it. The production visits were especially noteworthy. Honestly, I had never thought about how wooden toys, clothes, sugar, motorcycles, and so many other things are made. Now I understand how factory work is structured and how labor is distributed. It was thrilling and unforgettable.
Alexander Zykov
Business Informatics, Bachelor’s, 1st year
The Spring School in India covered all the key aspects of the educational program and offered a comprehensive view of the country — both from a business and cultural perspective. We visited companies from various industries and levels, which helped us see a variety of production approaches: in some, there were large numbers of jobs with minimal automation; in others, we witnessed successful implementation of advanced technologies. The program provided detailed insights into doing business in India. Before each visit, we were shown short videos about the company and the local business environment, which helped us better understand the context.
Denis Konvisarev
Master in International Management, 1st year
It was an intense, highly educational, and truly enriching program. Bangalore is an amazing city, and our industrial visits gave me insider knowledge I would never have gotten as a regular tourist.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the organization of our trip — at first, I wasn’t sure what level of reception to expect, but once we arrived, saw our bus, checked into the hotel, and dined in five-star restaurants, I realized that NSB is genuinely invested in continuing cooperation. They welcomed us like maharajas. For me, this trip was a huge step in my personal development, and I’m extremely grateful to GSB and NSB. Opportunities like this come once in a lifetime. Thank you! Namaskar!
Ksenia Kotova
Marketing and Market Analytics, Bachelor’s, 1st year
I had only positive impressions from the program. I really appreciated the organization: the Indian side showed a high level of responsibility and hospitality — both at the university and in the companies we visited. Everyone was always ready to answer our questions or offer help. What stood out the most was the interaction with local students and the active networking opportunities. I especially appreciated the strong focus on ESG practices in Indian companies, as well as the chance to explore the city during our free time — we visited local markets, clubs, and stylish cafés, which made the experience truly rich and immersive.
Viktoria Makovskaya
Marketing and Market Analytics, Bachelor’s, 3rd year
The Spring School in India exceeded all my expectations. This trip was not only about discovering a distant and unfamiliar country but also about forming an understanding of how business is done in such a rapidly developing environment. It was also about meeting fellow participants who became very close friends over the course of just ten days. I’ve previously taken part in two short-term academic mobility programs through GSB, but none of them included so many company visits. The scale of this program was impressive — from world-renowned tech giants to a small family-owned sugar production facility employing just 3–4 people. The cultural program was also impactful — we really felt the atmosphere of India, visited iconic places, and got a deeper understanding of its people. I want to sincerely thank everyone involved in organizing this trip, as well as those who participated and made it so special!
Aidar Medetov
Electronic Business and Digital Innovation, Master’s, 1st year
India turned out to be much more multifaceted and full of contrasts than I expected — from its vibrant traditions to its rapidly advancing economy. The Indian business model is very different from the Russian one: much depends on context, labor costs, and market share. This experience showed me that successful business models can differ greatly depending on conditions. Participating in the program was a major step in broadening my professional and cultural horizons.
Nikita Nekhaenko
Business Informatics, Bachelor’s, 2nd year
The trip was fantastic. Visiting so many factories and production sites helped me understand how the “engine room” of complex, high-tech businesses operates. We got to see the inner workings of various processes, and it provided a valuable, practical look at how businesses function in real life. But perhaps the most important lesson I learned is that business is, above all, about people — not just about money. Money is a result of well-built processes and relationships. Without human trust, respect, and understanding, the chances of success are slim. I’d like to thank Ivan Valeryevich, Olga Georgievna, and Olga Alexandrovna for organizing this wonderful trip and for being there with us throughout the experience!
Ksenia Nikolaeva
Business Administration, Bachelor’s, 3rd year
Visiting the "Silicon Valley" of India was truly unforgettable: we were treated to a packed program that immersed us in both the country’s unique culture and its business environment. From an academic perspective, I was especially interested in learning how seriously Indian companies take ESG issues — especially the social aspects. We also saw innovative industrial solutions and how clearly and effectively their production processes are structured. And of course, a major highlight was the people I met. Thanks to them, this trip was even more vibrant, engaging, and truly one-of-a-kind.
Maksim Novikov
Master in Digital Product Management, 2nd year
The trip to India was a vivid and eventful experience for me — both professionally and culturally. Over eight days, we visited a number of large and fascinating companies such as BIOCON, TVS Motor Company, SEG Automotive, L&T, and others. Each visit gave us the chance to observe real-world operations, talk with professionals, and see the industry through the eyes of practitioners.
I especially want to note the high level of organization throughout the trip. Our group always traveled by private bus, which made every outing convenient and timely. Accommodation was also excellent — clean, modern, and cozy hotels with courteous staff. I was also very impressed by how invested the organizers were — they provided us with a wealth of useful information, explained everything clearly, and were always ready to assist. Overall, this trip was a perfect combination of professional growth, cultural exchange, and personal discovery. I’m very grateful for the opportunity and proud to have been part of such a dynamic and well-organized program.
Sofia Pavlova
International Business, Bachelor’s, 1st year
Applying to the Spring School program in India was one of the best and most important decisions I’ve made. This trip gave me an incredible number of experiences — from exploring India’s landmarks and culture to visiting modern production sites where we were warmly welcomed and treated with great care. I especially remember visiting places like Pyramid Valley and the Isha Foundation — they introduced us to the art of meditation, taught us to listen to ourselves, and work with our inner state. This was a valuable and unexpected spiritual experience that became an essential part of the program.
Bangalore amazed me with its contrast — a mix of innovation and tradition, the hustle of a metropolis, and the calm of spiritual practice. This trip not only expanded my professional horizons but also filled me with vibrant emotions and inspiration from discovering a culture completely new to me.
Arina Patrusheva
International Business, Bachelor’s, 2nd year
What stood out most to me was the incredible friendliness and hospitality. Locals, company representatives, and support staff were all genuinely open, always ready to help, support us, and solve any issues that arose. The lectures at NSB — one of India’s top business schools — were delivered by passionate professors and experienced professionals. We discussed current topics like India’s startup culture, innovative technologies, and sustainable business development. These sessions helped us better understand the local market and business practices. This trip definitely exceeded my expectations. I gained not only practical knowledge about India’s economy and business but also got to know its culture, lifestyle, and values.
Andrey Semenov
Business Administration, Bachelor’s, 3rd year
I was truly struck by the contrast that runs through everything in India. One day we were visiting a modern high-tech medical company, and the next we were on a historic sugar plantation that seemed frozen in time. What impressed me most was the culture. I’ve long been interested in architecture, and India was an incredible find — full of rich forms, symbols, and meanings. This journey allowed me not just to experience the culture but to understand it from within, to grasp nuances you can’t feel from afar. But perhaps the most valuable part was seeing how business really works in India. At the factories we visited, I was deeply impressed by the dedication of local workers: they work six days a week with full commitment, strictly following procedures and standards. It opened my eyes to how differently daily life and business can be structured in another country.
Danila Sobolev
Master in International Management, 1st year
The trip to India was an unforgettable and invaluable international experience. I saw how the world’s most populous country really lives and works — and it was truly eye-opening. I’ll admit, some stereotypes were confirmed, but they were far outweighed by the hospitality, kindness, and openness of the Indian people — especially our hosts. The NSB team gave us their full attention and did everything to make the trip interesting and meaningful. They stayed with us throughout the program, always engaged and ready to help — and that’s incredibly valuable. If you’re still unsure about applying, my advice is simple: do it! This experience will stay with you for a long time and give you not only knowledge, but also vivid impressions you can’t find in textbooks.
Mariia Sologub
Business Administration, Bachelor’s, 3rd year
This program was a truly interesting experience for me. I had long wanted to explore Indian culture and its educational system — and India surpassed all my expectations. I didn’t have any illusions going in, but Bangalore amazed me with its lush greenery and beautiful architectural sites. The program itself was very intense. We had almost no free time, but that wasn’t a downside — it meant we got to visit many cultural and industrial locations we could never have accessed on our own. One highlight was visiting the Page Industries factory, where it was absolutely fascinating to see how fabrics are tested in the lab before being sent into production. Huge thanks to the organizers and company representatives for such a compelling program! I’ll definitely recommend it to my friends!
Yuliya Khismatulina
Business Administration, Bachelor’s, 4th year
Participating in the NSB Bangalore Spring Business School was an incredibly valuable experience for me!
The program was very diverse — presentations and Q&A sessions with managers of large companies, factory tours, and deep cultural immersion. I was especially impressed by the continuous production line at the TVS Motor Company plant. The trip’s organization and the hospitality of our hosts deserve special thanks. Everything was carefully planned and executed — from official meetings to cultural events that helped us understand Indian traditions better. The atmosphere of friendliness and openness was remarkable — even during discussions with professionals from various industries, there was a strong sense of mutual respect and eagerness to learn from one another. We were always offered help and answers to our questions. Thank you to the organizing team for the inspiration and the opportunity to be part of this community!
Polina Shevchenko
Marketing and Market Analytics, Bachelor’s, 3rd year
This trip helped break some stereotypes and gave me a new perspective on India — a country where social responsibility plays a key role in most businesses, where small companies have real opportunities to grow and succeed, and where cultural values and traditions don’t hinder progress — they enhance it.
Among all the companies we visited, TVS Motors stood out the most. From perfectly tuned operations and witnessing the assembly of a motorcycle from scratch in just 28 seconds, to their care for the environment — so much so that peacocks roam freely on the premises — everything was impressive.
I would love to return to India, to Bangalore and other cities, to bring my friends and explore this incredible, unique, and vibrant country together. Namaskar!