Fortunately, I have close ties with alumni of both the institutes namely, IIM Sambalpur and IRMA Anand. 

IIM Sambalpur is one of the youngest IIMs. In general, IMs offer programs like MBA or PGP in the following specializations; Marketing, Finance, Operation, and other domains. IRMA on the other hand is well-reputed for its strong program in PGDRM i.e. MBA in Rural Management.

Here are a few similarities between IIM Sambalpur and IRMA

• Average Packages are almost similar. IIM Sambalpur's average package is around INR 16.64 LPA while IRMA Anand average package is INR 15.50 LPA
• Fees are almost similar. IIM Sambalpur MBA fees is INR 5,40,000/Yr while IRMA Anand PGDM (Rural Management) fees are INR 16,15,452 Total Fees.

Here are a few differences between IRMA and IIM Sambalpur 

• Batch size in IRMA is almost double that of IIM Sambalpur.
• IRMA provides specialization in Rural Management while IIM Sambalpur provides specialization in domains like Marketing, Operations, Finance, and more. 

So, now coming to the main point, unless you are deeply interested in Rural Management, IIM Sambalpur seems to be the best option for you. The IIM tag will provide excellent opportunities and exposure and help you shape your career excellently. Despite being established in 1979, IRMA’s growth rate is not at the level of IIM Sambalpur that was established in 2015 and is already flourishing. So unless you are adamant about Rural Management, IIM Sambalpur is the best option.

For general management, IIM Sambalpur is better. Although it is a new IIM, it offers better visibility and networking opportunities to students. The IIM brand name is well-recognized in the industry. IIM Sambalpur placements have been good over the last few years. During 2022 placement drive, the average and highest CTC offered to the students were INR 41 LPA and INR 12.34 LPA. Deloitte India, SBI Life, E&Y, ZS Associates, etc. are among the major recruiters that took part in the placement drive.

Choose IRMA over IIM Sambalpur, only if you are interested in rural management.  

IRMA Anand is considered among the best rural management school. I have a friend at IRMA Anand and here is his insight.

• IRMA carries a legacy of nearly 40 years.
• The approach of the institute has been unique from the very start. They follow a mission of sustainable and equitable socio-economic development of the rural people through mainstream management.
• At IRMA, you will get your money’s worth. In fact, it is one of the best management institutes in terms of ROI. According to recent placement statistics, their median CTC is around 10.23 LPA.
• Many reputed MNCs from different domains visit the campus placement. There are cooperative/producer collectives like GCMMF to grassroots development organizations like Bihar Rural Livelihood Promotion Society to multinational agribusiness corporation ITC, Cargill, Cummins, etc.

IRMA is one of the most preferred institutes in rural management and also counts in the few amongst mainstream management schools in the country.