RMA is founded with the belief, borne out by Dr.Kurien’s work in the dairy co-operatives which revolutionised the dairy industry in the country, that the key for effective rural development is professional management. Professionalising the management of rural organisations calls for matching the specific but unmet needs of the sector with the formal techniques and skills of management professionals. Linking the two are the ‘rural managers’ prepared by IRMA through its two-years diploma (PRM) in rural management. IRMA is a unique institution of rural management. IRMA stands out as an institute with a mission. IRMA’s mission is to promote sustainable, ecologically-friendly and the equitable socio-economic development of rural people through professional management.