Hijli Detention Camp – The KGP Chronicle

Yuva Sangam Phase III – IIT Kharagpur hosts 50 students from Madhya Pradesh

The Ministry of Education kick-started the 3^rd phase of Yuva Sangam starting from 21^st to 30^th November, 2023 with a delegation of 50 students belonging to diverse parts of Madhya Pradesh travelling to West Bengal for a cultural and education tour. A nation-wide Student Exchange Programme, as we say might say it, Yuva Sangam under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative endeavours to promote experiential learning and introduces the youth of the country to the rich diversity of our country. It also aims to provide an immersive experience into the unique facets of life, developed landmarks, architectural and engineering marvels, industrial progress and recent achievements in the host state with the focus being on people-to-people connect.

As part of the ongoing phase of Yuva Sangam, exposure tours were conducted throughout November and December 2023 wherein youth comprising mainly of students studying in Higher Educational institutions (HEIs) as also off-campus youngsters in the age group 18-30 years from across the nation traveled to their paired states. Phase 3 witnessed immense vigour and enthusiasm among the participants. This phase takes forth the idea behind this unique initiative under the aegis of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat by the Government of India which intends to not just expand the intellectual horizons of young agents of change but to also sensitizes them to diversity across India so as to channelize their knowledge for a more connected, empathetic and technologically robust India of the future. An initiative by Government of India to strengthen people-to-people connect especially between youth belonging to North Eastern India and other States. Yuva Sangam of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat focuses on conducting exposure tours for the youth and provide an immersive experience of various facets of life, development landmarks, recent achievements and youth connect in the host state. During their visits, the youth had a multi-dimensional exposure under five broad areas – Paryatan (Tourism), Parampara (Traditions), Pragati (Development), Prodyogik (Technology) and ParasparSampark (People-to-people connect).

Yuva Sangam Phase-III had participation from 22 States and UTs with the following Higher Education Institutions paired for the purpose of conducting the exposure tours: Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh-IIT Delhi; IIT Dharwad-IIT Ropar; SPPU Pune-IIT Guwahati; IIT Hyderabad-BHU Varanasi; IIM Trichy-IIIT Kota; IIM Sambalpur-NIT Calicut; IIITDM Jabalpur-IIT Kharagpur; IIIT Ranchi-NIT Kurukshetra; NIT Goa-IIT Bhilai; and IIM Bodhgaya-IIIT Surat.

Being the nodal institute for the programme, IIT Kharagpur was paired with IIITDM Jabalpur where a team of 50 students visited the state of West Bengal. After completing two days of train journey from Madhya Pradesh, the team of 50 students along with their mentors was welcomed at IIT Kharagpur with chocolates, red roses and the much needed refreshing coconut drink to revive themselves for the day long itinerary at IIT Kharagpur. The entourage then embarked on their journey to know the history of the largest IIT of the nation which is an emblem of heritage in itself and is a significant foundation stone of Indian Independence. The team walked through the lustrous green campus of the institute to explore the campus and reached the Old Building of the institute where they visited the Nehru Museum of Science Technology, Indian Knowledge System and Bharat Tirtha. Prof. Richa Chopra, Centre of Excellence for Indian Knowledge Systems gave them a vivid description about the foundations of the institute, explaining them the medieval art that transfused into the science of today. Later, the students watched the film on Shaheed Bhavan and Hijli Detention Camp in IIT Kharagpur that played a significant role in Indian Independence Movement. The entire team next visited to Gongoni Danga which is a natural canyon situated near the town of Garbeta, in the Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal, India. Prof. Amit Patra, Deputy Director, IIT Kharagpur interacted with the students from Madhya Pradesh under the auspices of Yuva Sangam Phase 3. The students had an enriching experience when Prof. Patra explained them the cultural diversity of West Bengal as a state along with its active participation in the Indian Independence Movement.

The next day, the entourage visited the birthplace of Khudiram Bose named Mohobani in Paschim Medinipur and sang the very patriotic song, “Ek Baar Bidya de Maa Ghure Ashi,” paying a tribute to the youngest Freedom Fighter of the Indian Independence Movement. Next the students visited the Plant of JSW Cement where they were briefed by the JSW employees regarding the entire operations of a cement factory. The day concluded with their visit to the Gangani canyon, widely known as “Grand Canyon of Bengal” which is a famous tourist spot situated by the town of Garhbeta of Paschim Medinipur district at a distance of 55 Km from Midnapore Town. It comprises of natural hills around the River Shilabati, locally known as “Shilai River”. The rains and seasonal variations, over time, have resulted in the formation of spectacular geological structures.

The team next started off its trip to Mayapur which is a neighbourhood of Bamanpukur, in the Nabadwip CD block in the Krishnanagar Sadar subdivision of the Nadia district, West Bengal, India. It’s situated at the confluence of the Jalangi River and the Bhagirathi, a tributary of the Ganges. They also visited Mogolmari, a village and an archaeological excavation site in the Dantan II CD block in the Kharagpur subdivision of the Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal where the students explored the village life of West Bengal and got a first-hand experience of the basics of how agricultural land is prepared for ploughing. The next destination of the team was Sabang, where they learned the skill of hand-weaving of “Madur” (Mat) and met Mr. Dharnidhar Jana, also known as The Madur Man, who is also the recipient of Rashtrapati Puraskar from Talda Gram Sabang. The students were given a live demonstration on the Madur Mat Weaving process done at the Talda village, located in Sabang Subdivision of Paschim Medinipur district. The next destination was Bishnupur and Bakura where the students explored the unique articrafts and handicrafts of Bishnupur made with Terracotta which means ‘baked earth.’ It has been used to produce decorative art works as well as construction works since ancient times. All the heritage building in Bishnupur and Bakura contains encryption of these exclusive art forms. As an adieu from IIT KGP, a cultural night was organized by the Yuva Sangam team at IIT Kharagpur where the students and professors were engaged in a cultural exchange of soulful musical performances.

The team of Madhya Pradesh then embarked on their journey to Kolkata, the city of joy. After exploring richness of rural Bengal, they went to taste the flavours of Kolkata, the cultural capital of India. First the team went to Victoria Memorial which is a large marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria, the Empress of India facing the Queens Way on the Maidan in Central Kolkata. It is the largest monument to a monarch anywhere in the world. It stands at 64 acres of gardens and is now a museum under the control of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Possessing prominent features of the Indo-Saracenic architecture, it has evolved into one of the most popular attractions in the city.

The next destination for the team was the visit to Dakshineswar temple which is a Hindu navaratna temple in Dakshineswar, Kolkata. Situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the presiding deity of the temple is Bhavatarini, a form of Parashakti Adya Kali, also known as Adishakti Kalika. The student then enjoyed the scenic beauty of Ganges through the ferry ride from Dakshineshwar temple to Belur Math and also had the famous prasad at the ISKON Temple in Kolkata. The entourage than visited Nawadip, a heritage city in Nadia district in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is regarded as a holy place by Hindus, and is the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Finally the students concluded their journey by immersing their taste buds with the famous “Phucka” (Panipuri) of Kolkata and were blown away by its exquisite taste and texture. The team of IIT Kharagpur including Prof. Bharagb Maitra, Dean Student Affairs along with Prof. Chirodeep Bakli, Prof. Swati Maitra, Prof. Shuvro Prosun Sarker, Prof. Bharat Aithal, Prof. Manish Kaushal, Prof. Aritra Chatterjee, Prof. Sudeshna Koley, Prof. Gargi Gargate, Prof. Avishek Chatterjee, Prof. Suverna Trivedi and the entire team of Yuva Sangam at IIT Kharagpur, worked day and night to make Madhya Pradesh team’s experience a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Their hard work and dedication made this programme a grand and great success.

After the success of being a host, now it was time to be an Atithi to IIITDM Jabalpur. 50 students from the different universities of West Bengal were flagged off by Prof. V K Tewai, Director, IIT Kharagpur to explore Madhya Pradesh as a part of Yuva Sangam Phase III activity. The students learned about Bhil art from a young student in the railway station and explored places like Khajurahu, the Dhuadhar Falls, Maiyaar temple and also witnessed Narmada Aarti.

Under the aegis of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat – Yuva Sangam stood out as an example of cultivating the youth of this country so that they are aware of its origins, the country where he/she comes from and the country he/she will lead as the future stakeholders. Once called the “Golden Sparrow,” by the rest of the world, India shines with its beauty in diversity. Now emerging as the largest growing economy of the world, India upholds its rich legacy and cultural uniformity to establish the notion of Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat by educating and upgrading the youth of this great nation through the platform of Yuva Sangam.

Takeaways:

From the Ganges to the Dhuadhar: A Yuva Sangam Journey of Discovery shares Asirul Parwez, one of the students from the West Bengal Contingent to Madhya Pradesh

“Jabalpur, our gateway to Madhya Pradesh, embraced us with the warmth of its people and the aroma of its delectable street food. Our homestay, a traditional haveli with intricately carved arches and a courtyard bathed in moonlight, became our haven. Days were filled with exploration. We delved into the historical tapestry of Rani Durgavati’s fort, its ramparts whispering tales of valor. The marble splendor of the Teen Murti Temple, bathed in the golden glow of dawn, left us awestruck. And evenings were for exchanging stories, learning the rhythmic beats of Karma dances, and sharing laughter over steaming cups of chai. Our Yuva Sangam journey wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was about forging connections. We bonded with the locals, learning their dialects, savoring their culinary delights, and sharing stories that transcended cultural boundaries. We discovered the vibrancy of Jabalpur’s street markets, bargained for trinkets with mischievous smiles, and danced to the pulsating rhythm of dhol beats. Each interaction, each shared laugh, chipped away at the barriers of geography and language, weaving a tapestry of understanding. The Yuva Sangam experience was more than just a trip; it was a transformation. It broadened my horizons, challenged my preconceptions, and filled my heart with a newfound appreciation for the diverse tapestry of India. I returned not just with souvenirs and photographs, but with a suitcase brimming with memories, friendships, and a deeper understanding of my own nation. The echoes of the Dhuadhar falls, the warmth of Jabalpur’s hospitality, and the laughter of my newfound friends – these are the souvenirs I will cherish forever, a testament to the transformative power of Yuva Sangam,”

Yuvaa Sangam Journey: A Cultural Odyssey from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh says Pamit Dutta, one of the students from the West Bengal Contingent to Madhya Pradesh

“The journey commenced with a trip to Kharagpur, a city synonymous with academic excellence. From Kolkata to Kharagpur, the transition marked the beginning of our cultural sojourn, paving the way for the diverse experiences that awaited us. The train journey from Howrah to Kharagpur offered glimpses of the diverse landscapes of West Bengal. Passing through quaint villages and lush fields, the scenery painted a vivid picture of the varied beauty within the state. Reaching IIITDM Jabalpur was a continuation of our cultural odyssey. The hospitality extended by the institute and the warmth of the locals amplified the sense of belonging, reinforcing the idea that unity in diversity is the heartbeat of our nation. The stay in Jabalpur became a hub of cultural exchange. From traditional dance performances to interactive sessions, every moment was an opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Indian culture. A visit to Dhuadhar Falls brought about goosebumps as the cascading waters reflected the raw power and beauty of nature. The ropeway adventure, though at times both creepy and crazy, offered breathtaking views and a rush of adrenaline that added an adventurous twist to our cultural exploration. Navigating the ropeway presented a mix of emotions—creepy yet exhilarating, crazy yet awe-inspiring. It was a test of courage that, in retrospect, became a highlight of the trip, symbolizing the unexpected thrills that come with cultural exploration. In conclusion, the Yuvaa Sangam trip transcended its role as a government-organized cultural excursion. It became a chapter in my life filled with discovery, friendship, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse geography that makes India truly unique. The journey, from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh, was a celebration of unity in diversity, leaving an indelible mark on my cultural consciousness.”

Crossing Bridges : A Yuva Sangam Voyage from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh remarks Sana Sajjad, one of the students from the West Bengal Contingent to Madhya Pradesh

“Each passing landscape was a brushstroke on our collective canvas. Emerald paddy fields gave way to ochre hills, villages painted in terracotta whispering tales of a different India. We learned about Bhil art from a young student on the platform, savored the tangy sweetness of “churma laddoos” offered by an elderly vendor, and danced to impromptu bhangra beats with a group of farmers. The train wasn’t just a mode of transportation; it was a microcosm of India, an ever-changing tapestry woven with laughter, shared stories, and the unspoken language of human connection. Jabalpur, our destination, embraced us with the warmth of a long-lost family. The local university became our home, bustling with activity and bonhomie. Days were filled with explorations; mornings painting our senses with the aroma of spicy jalebis and the echoing chants from an ancient temple, afternoons lost in the labyrinthine corridors of the Rani Durgavati museum, and evenings echoing with impromptu poetry readings and bonfire singalongs. But the most valuable souvenir we brought back was a renewed understanding of India. It wasn’t just about the majestic waterfalls, the intricate temples, or the spicy food. It was about the people we met, the stories we shared, the laughter that echoed across borders and boundaries. We returned to West Bengal carrying within us a piece of Madhya Pradesh, a newfound appreciation for diversity, and a heart brimming with stories waiting to be told.”

Yuvaa Sangam: A Transcendent Journey from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh mentions Subhankar Sarkar, one of the students from the West Bengal Contingent to Madhya Pradesh

“Setting off on the Yuvaa Sangam pilgrimage from the verdant regions of West Bengal to the bustling metropolis of Madhya Pradesh was an experience that went beyond simple travel. It was a voyage of self-discovery, cultural absorption, and establishing enduring relationships. My family’s excitement and eagerness were evident as soon as I learned about this thrilling journey, laying the groundwork for an amazing time. Once we arrived in Madhya Pradesh, the surrounding landscapes opened up like pages from a travelogue. My experiences were painted on canvases by the architectural magnificence of Khajuraho, the spiritual vibes of Maihar, and the historical richness of Chitrakoot. Every location made a lasting impression and added to the mosaic of recollections that characterized the Yuva Sangam tour. I realize that the Yuva Sangam trek from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh was more than just a travel experience; it was a life-changing adventure that enhanced the fabric of my being. It was an ode to the friendships made with other travelers as well as a celebration of diversity and a dance of cultures. The memories I made on this voyage are chapters in a book of my personal development, not merely moments captured in time. The Yuva Sangam excursion left a lasting impression on my psyche, serving as a symbolic bridge that connected the East and the heart of India.”

Media Coverage:

PTI	Times of India	Statesman
PIB	India Today	The Week
Humming Birds	Amader Bharat	KGP News

Times of India The Statesman

By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer)
Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007

Follow us: Facebook – IIT Kharagpur; Twitter – @IITKgp; Instagram – @iit.kgp; LinkedIn – Indian Institute of Technology
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‘Our classes were held where freedom fighters were locked up,’ says Narasimhan Venkatesan Patel, Alumnus of the First Batch at IIT KGP

Mr. Narasimhan Venkatesan Patel, Former Member of the Railway Board and an Electrical Engineering Alumnus (1951-55) of IIT Kharagpur, shares some interesting anecdotes about the faculty and how IIT Kharagpur took special tutorials of students who appeared in Class 12 exams from different boards or syllabi. The Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur was established in 1951 and is the oldest among all the IITs in the country. As the institute was set up in the Hijli detention camp of West Bengal, it has a link with the freedom fighters of India.

“We mostly had classes in the old Hijli Central Jail building during the first two years. A big hangar inside the compound served as the workshop. Our staff, some of whom had served in the prison administration as Jailers, mentioned that our classrooms were the rooms where prisoners who were great freedom fighters were locked up, and some were tortured and later died,” remarked the Alum.

To bolster the country’s growth and make it self-reliant, the government started establishing IITs, IIMs and AIIMS. Like other IITs, the classes of the first batch commenced on a half-constructed campus.

“Since our hostel, Patel Hall, was half ready when the first year started, we had to share rooms. Interestingly, as there were differences in syllabus levels in different universities at intermediate science where students took admission, tutorials of Math and English were organised after dinner in the hostel for the first two terms of the first year,” Patel said.

“The initial struggles and our saviour”

IIT Kharagpur campus was spread over 2100 acres in the vast tree-laden campus. Along with a tough syllabus, the initial batches had to struggle with wildlife. “There were snakes around the hostel under construction and our beloved director Dr. J C Ghosh, also a famed Indian scientist, ordered the cutting of drains around and spraying of carbolic acid. The humane and kind approach of Dr. J C Ghosh made us withstand many hardships. In the third year, we moved to the classes in the new building,” he said.

Dr. J C Ghosh left IIT in the third year to join as the Vice Chancellor of Calcutta University. A student delegation from IIT met Dr. B. C. Roy the then Chief Minister of West Bengal to plead with him the need for continuing Dr. J C Ghosh, revered as a father figure by the students. Dr. B C Roy is stated to have quipped, “We will send another father figure to you.”

Dr. B R Sengupta, Principal of Shibpur Engineering College, was appointed as the next director for IIT Kharagpur. As per Patel, Dr. Sen Gupta was a strict disciplinarian and a stickler for targets.

Despite being the first batch, the students, were fortunate to have the best faculty possible. “Dr. Krause Mechanical Engineering, Prof Malonowsky, Production Technology (UNESCO support) on the mechanical side and Prof. Keshav Murthy, Prof Srinivasan, Dr. Menon gave us deep insights into Electrical Engineering. They took us to much higher heights in the subjects that I could see the difference in when I joined DVC as an assistant engineer in the Maithon Hydel Project after college in 1955 and Indian Railways in early 1957,” Patel informed.

iit news First convocation at IIT-Kharagpur. The first batch is sitting with the then PM Nehru.

The Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) was established in 1951 and is the oldest among all the IITs in the country. As the institute was set up in the Hijli detention camp of West Bengal, it has a link with the freedom fighters of India.

An electrical engineering (1951-55) alumnus, Narasimhan Venkatesan Patel (former member of the Railway Board) shares some interesting anecdotes about the faculty and how IIT-Kharagpur took special tutorials of students who appeared in Class 12 exams from different boards or syllabi.

“We mostly had classes in the old Hijlee Central Jail building in the first two years. A big hangar inside the compound served as the workshop. Our staff, some of whom had served in the prison administration as jailors, mentioned that our classrooms were the rooms where prisoners (many great freedom fighters) were locked up, and some were tortured and later died,” he told.

IIT Kharagpur campus was spread over 2100 acres in the vast tree-laden campus. Along with a tough syllabus, the initial batches had to struggle with wildlife. “There were snakes around the hostel under construction and our beloved director Dr JC Ghosh, also a famed Indian scientist, ordered the cutting of drains around and spraying of carbolic acid. The humane and kind approach of Dr JC Ghosh made us withstand many hardships. In the third year, we moved to the classes in the new building,” he said.

DR JC Ghosh left IIT in the third year to join as the Vice Chancellor of Calcutta University. A student delegation from IIT met Dr BC Roy the then chief minister of West Bengal to plead with him the need for continuing Dr JC Ghosh, revered as a father figure by the students. DR BC Roy is stated to have quipped: “We will send another father figure to you.”

iit kharagpur photos An old photo of IIT-Kharagpur

DR BR Sengupta, principal of Shibpur Engineering College was appointed as the next director for IIT Kharagpur. As per Patel, Dr Sen Gupta was a strict disciplinarian and a stickler for targets.

Despite being the first batch, the students, as per Patel, were fortunate to have the best faculty possible. “Dr Krause Mech Engg, Prof Malonowsky, Production Technology (UNESCO support) on the mechanical side and Prof Keshav Murthy, Prof Srinivasan, Dr Menon gave us deep insights into electrical engineering. They took us to much higher heights in the subjects that I could see the difference in when I joined DVC as an assistant engineer in the Maithon Hydel Project after college in 1955 and Indian Railways in early 1957,” Patel informed.

‘IITs should consider dual degree programmes’

These days, IITs are coming up with courses to skill up their students. In IIT Kharagpur, however, this has been introduced in the initial years. “One noteworthy feature of the course was the attempt to include Humanities in the course and we had the benefit of Business Management courses in two terms by Prof Nanjundiah. If IIT had allowed more courses in business administration, it would have sent the right mix of engineer managers to the industry,” Patel added.

On the issue of regular engineers drifting from core subjects to computer sciences, he said the problem is similar to losing engineering graduates seeking IIM post graduate pursuit “sometimes ending up selling cigarettes and soaps with lucrative emoluments.”

“One way would be to send out core engineers with a Diploma in Computer Sciences as well, IITs may consider shifting to dual degree programmes. AIIMS Delhi has already set up a strong IT department recognising the importance of IT in genetics health care,” he said.

An Indian Express Exclusive Story

https://indianexpress.com/article/education/iit-kharagpurs-first-batch-our-classes-were-held-in-where-freedom-fighters-were-locked-up-jeemain-2024-advanced-8969298/

Edited By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer)Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007

Follow us on: Facebook – IIT Kharagpur; Twitter – @IITKgp; Instagram – @iit.kgp; LinkedIn – Indian Institute of Technology
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“India is a land of IITs, especially IIT Kharagpur which is the mother of all IITs,” said Mahamohopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami in the 73rd Foundation of the institute

The Foundation of a Family, that’s where it all began for IIT Kharagpur in 1951. The history of the IIT system dates back to 1946 when a committee was set up by Hon’ble Sir Jogendra Singh, Member of the Viceroy’s Executive Council, Department of Education, Health and Agriculture to consider the setting up of Higher Technical Institutions for post war industrial development in India. The 22 member committee headed by Sri N.R. Sarkar recommended the establishment of four Higher Technical Institutions on the lines of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA. With the above recommendations the first Indian Institute of Technology was born in May 1950 in Hijli, Kharagpur, in the eastern part of India. The present name ‘Indian Institute of Technology’ was adopted before the formal inauguration of the Institute on August 18, 1951 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. IIT Kharagpur started its journey in the old Hijli Detention Camp where some of our great freedom fighters toiled and sacrificed their lives for the independence of our country in the revolutionary struggle against the British Raj.

As the country enters its 77th year of Independence, IIT Kharagpur also enters its 73rd year of foundation on 18th August 2023 which was adorned by eminent personalities. Mahamohopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami, Head, BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Shri Durga Shanker Mishra, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Uttar Pradesh and Dr. P Arun, Director, Tata Medical Center also graced the occasion as the Guests of Honour. The invocation started by hoisting the national flag and institute flag at the main building. Conferment of Chair Professor Awards, Gitindra Saran Sanyal Faculty Excellence Awards, Young Alumni Achievers Awards, Staff Excellence Awards, and the institute employees who completed 25 years of service were felicitated.

Mahamohopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami, Head, BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, the Chief Guest of the 72nd Foundation Day of IIT Kharagpur said, “This day embarks the foundation of IIT Kharagpur along with a Bhavya Bharat – The extraordinary India. If you want to understand the glory of any culture or any country or civilization, observe its education, research, literature and spirituality. India is a land of education system, a natural education system and a systematic and organised education. I can proudly say that India will be the answer to Artificial Intelligence, it will create a balance to endure and sustain it. India is a land of spirituality. The moto of this institution is ‘Yoga Karmashu Koushalam’ from the Bhagwat Gita. When we attach our self to a purpose, its ‘Yog’ and with ‘Yudyog’ we have to travel in forward direction to succeed and then comes ‘Proyudhyog’ which highlights the focused and sincere approach. India is a Land of Education, Land of Research with art Music, Science, technology and philosophy, the land of new innovations, the land of Literature, legacy and scripture, the land of spirituality, land of living idols, because we celebrate diversity equality, and inclusion. Most importantly India is glorious because it is the land of IITs, especially IIT Kharagpur.”

The foundations of IIT Kharagpur rests on the eternal motto of ‘Yoga Karmashu Koushalam’ from the Gita. It means that the individual interests behind any action which is either driven by material success or failure must be transformed to a higher and universal process of Yoga i.e., a communion between the self of an individual with the web of self in all, the Cosmos itself. As the Mother of all IIT system, and as the pioneering pace setter of science and technology, IIT Kharagpur was initiated as a mansion of learning on the bedrock of sacrifice by our martyrs seeking national independence.

The Institute started with 42 teachers and 224 students in 1951 on the lines of MIT. We have grown enormously since then with almost 17000 students currently and I would like to thank all the previous directors and chairman for nurturing this institution. We need to have a critical mass where the goals of the Institute should not only be administration driven but where a particular system must continue irrespective of other things and need to focus on our strengths identifying the respective parameters. Today major organizations, institutions, administration and governance are operational under the leadership of IITians. The talent we have in this country should be tapped than losing them to MITs. The items in NEP 2020 has been implemented in the Higher Education system at IIT Kharagpur. We have implemented the entry exit policy with exposure of the students to industries with semester away programs. We have Centre for Classical & Folk Art, Indian Knowledge System, Academy of Leadership which are first of their kind in the country, remarked Prof. V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur.

The Young Alumni Achiever Award was given to 26 young alumni of IIT Kharagpur honouring their excellence in innovations, technological developments, research, community welfare, leadership, entrepreneurship, social impact, nation building, national interest and professional accomplishments.

“As an Alumnus of IIT Kanpur, I can say that IIT education is different from other education as it develops the holistic character of the students for not only the respective industries, they need to address the concerns of the society as well. I was amazed to find out that IIT Kharagpur has law school and medical school as well.” After speaking on Amrit Kal, Atmanirbhar Bharat and Developed India he continued to say that it gives him immense pleasure to see so many young entrepreneurs here who provide technology solutions to the remotest of the country. He shared his insights on Affordable Sustainable Housing Accelerators for India that would bring in new technology, new skills, new developments to fulfil the construction requirements of the people of this country. We make a new Chicago every year in this country based on sq feet measures. Today we can join in the transformation process of the country having the 3rd largest start-up ecsystem and more than 100 unicorns producing for the world. IITs can provide collaborative platforms for research and innovation and need to work on distance skilling,” shared Shri Durga Shanker Mishra, IAS, Chief Secretary Uttar Pradesh candidly.

The institute honoured five professors including Prof. Niloy Ganguly, Department of Computer Science and Engineering; Prof. Subhasish Basu Majumder, Materials Science Centre; Prof. Dilip Kumar Pratihar, Department of Mechanical Engineering; Prof. Peeyush Soni, Department of Agricultural & Food Engineering and Prof. Chirodeep Bakli, School of Energy Science and Engineering with the Faculty Excellence Award 2023. The Institute Chair Professor Award 2023 was bestowed to Prof. Suman Chakraborty, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Kharagpur. along with 32 Staff Excellence Awards 2023. A total of 25 people were recognized for their uninterrupted 25 years of service to the Institution. “Premise that EVs reduce carbon footprint is a myth,” was the topic for Foundation Day Debate which was conducted by Prof. Anandaroop Bhattacharya, Department of Mechanical Engineering engrossing the participation of Faculties, Students and Staffs in Netaji Auditorium followed by a cultural programme. Prof. Dipa Dube, Dean, Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law handed over the prizes to the all the participants.

Dr. P Arun, Director, Tata Medical Centre explained the need of low-cost and sustainable healthcare products. He said, “Today learning cannot be just multidisciplinary, it has to be interdisciplinary. For IIT Kharagpur, a joint training program where strengths could be shared, the strength of a doctor could be shared with that of an engineer and that public knowledge could be used for public good. The progress of technology is relentless and you have to be prepared for it. With the invasion of AI, multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary cooperation is going to be imperative in the years to come. We need to develop indigenous technology, our own technology, our own infrastructure and that is what is impressive about IIT Kharagpur which has done do much on affordable healthcare and technology. “

On March, 1952, Pandit Nehru laid the foundation stone of the new building. The first Board of Governors was constituted with Dr. B.C. Roy, as the chairman of the Institute. On Sept. 15, 1956, the Parliament of India passed an act known as the Indian Institute of Technology (Kharagpur) Act declaring this Institute as an Institution of National Importance. IIT Kharagpur is the oldest IIT established in India in 1951 and has been awarded the status of Institution of Eminence by the Government of India in 2019.

“We hope to be in the top 10 in the world by 2030 and identified niche areas in precision agriculture, Industry 4.0, affordable healthcare, Advance Transportation and Infrastructure. We are the first one to have AI Innovation Hub in Machine Learning. We will also have a Centre of Excellence on Futuristic Technologies with DRDO. The Government of India also gave us the responsibility of instituting a Department of Education from this year itself to train quality teachers. We are also working in the areas of medical sciences and technology for many years and have signed MoUs with AIIMs Kalyani and AIIIMs Delhi on the same lines. We believe in taking the technology to the last man standing of the society. We are also developing sustainable technologies in the rural sectors and have helped more than 20,000 farmers in West Bengal with prominent works that have been done in Bioenergy and Food Technology. Now we have more than 80,000 Alumni. We want our faculties and staff to think in a positive frame of mind so that they can reform, perform and transform – a clarion call by our Hon’ble Prime Minister,” added Prof. Tewari.

Today the institute as the largest of all IITs, comprises of 19 departments,12 schools, 18 centres (including five Centres of Excellence) and 2 academies, 21 halls of residence, 810+ Faculty Members, 880 Staffs, 15,7200+ Students with vast tree-laden campus spreading over 2100 acres has a self-contained township of over 15,000 inhabitants excluding students. Apart from engineering & technical studies, IIT KGP has multi-disciplinary and trans-disciplinary academic capabilities that commensurate with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) from day one. Along with incorporating India’s culture and knowledge tradition in NEP 2020, the way it has opened ways to sustainable innovations, smart solutions and modernization, has created a whole new dimension of productive inclusion. The Institute will also set its course for a new age of becoming the, “Vishwaguru and Vishwamitra – Sarvajan Hitaya: Sarvajan Sukhaya.”

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