·
Focusing
on Research, Prof. Laxmidhar Behera said the institute did 120 Crore plus
Research Projects in the last three years
·
The
institute will invest an additional amount of 700 Crores as strategic infrastructure
expansion
Mandi:
The
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi, one of India’s leading IITs,
celebrated its 17th Foundation Day by bringing together eminent leaders from
industry, academia, and global research, who highlighted the growing role of
artificial intelligence, robotics, and emerging technologies in shaping India’s
future growth.
IIT Mandi is at the forefront of innovation across multiple
disciplines and has gained international recognition for its cutting-edge
research in AI, robotics, quantum technology, advanced materials, and
interdisciplinary engineering, fully aligned with the national vision of Viksit
Bharat 2047. Over the years, the Institute has evolved into a
research-intensive university that fosters experiential learning, drives
innovation, and nurtures entrepreneurship, while steadfastly upholding its
motto, ‘Scaling the Heights.
The event was graced by various dignitaries, including Padma
Bhushan awardee Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co-Founder of Infosys Ltd., who
attended as the Chief Guest, and Prof. Oussama Khatib, Director of
Stanford Robotics Lab, USA, as the Distinguished Guest. Other dignitaries
present were Prof. Timothy Gonsalves, Founding Director of IIT
Mandi; Prof. Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi, Vice Chancellor of Banaras
Hindu University; and Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, Vice Chancellor
of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University.
17th Foundation Day Celebrations at IIT
Mandi
In his remarks, Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT
Mandi, stated, "As IIT Mandi
celebrates its 17th Foundation Day, it is a moment to reflect not only on the
Institute’s evolution but also on the essence of ‘Shodasha’ – representing
eternal youthfulness, creativity, and growth. Over the years, IIT Mandi has
emerged as a dynamic hub for experiential learning and cutting-edge research in
Quantum Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Semiconductor Systems, and
Interdisciplinary Engineering, supported by over ₹120 crore in research grants.
Through a steadfast focus on innovation, translation, and entrepreneurship, we
are preparing ‘Future-ready Leaders’ who will drive technological self-reliance
and contribute meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047."
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Guest Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co-Founder of Infosys
Ltd., stated," We’re
at the edge of the intelligence revolution, and the next 25–30 years present
the greatest opportunity for India to lead globally in innovation and
technology. Institutions like IIT Mandi will be central to this journey,
nurturing talent, conducting translational research, and fostering an
entrepreneurial culture. I firmly believe the young people here can build a
'product nation' and develop globally competitive, accessible, sustainable
technologies. IIT Mandi will lay the foundation for transformative change and
solutions to global challenges as India moves toward Viksit Bharat 2047."
Speaking on the occasion,
Prof. Oussama Khatib, Director, Stanford Robotics Lab, USA, remarked, "IIT Mandi exemplifies excellence in
education combined with an inspiring natural environment. The campus valley
offers immense potential to become a world-renowned innovation hub akin to
Silicon Valley. The Institute’s emphasis on research, entrepreneurship, and
real-world applications will shape future generations of innovative engineers
and entrepreneurs. Its blend of visionary thinking, natural beauty, and
international collaboration will ensure IIT Mandi remains a leader in advanced
research, particularly in robotics."
Faculties and Students received awards for their meritorious
contributions across research, academics and sports.
Research Achievements & Key
Milestones
- State-of-the-art
research facilities in AI, Robotics, Quantum Technology, and Advanced
Materials
- ₹120
crore in research funding for 177 projects over the last 3 years
- Execution
of over 200 consultancy projects totalling ₹17 Crores
- Initiation
of Interdisciplinary Research Centres and Global Collaborations
- Support
for Innovation and Entrepreneurship through Fellowships and Incubation
Programs
Felicitation & Celebrations
During the ceremony, IIT Mandi honoured the achievements of
students, faculty, and staff for their contributions to academics, research,
and innovation. The day also highlighted the Institute’s growing importance in
positioning India as a global leader in technology, research, and higher
education. IIT Mandi remains committed to advancing national priorities through
Deep Tech and Technology-Based Development.