Is virtual reality teaching possible? How positive impact can digital content have on student assessment? Ahead of Teacher’s Day, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur organized a special one-day workshop to find answers to some of these questions. The Centre for Teaching Learning and Virtual Skilling (CTLVS) at IIT Kharagpur successfully conducted a one-day workshop titled “Empowering Educators With Digital Pedagogy and Technology,” on 4th September 2024. The workshop, aimed at school teachers from KVS, introduced innovative methods for enhancing teaching practices through digital tools and interactive technologies.
A total of 30 teachers from different branches of Kendriya Vidyalayas of Kolkata participated in the workshop titled ‘Empowering Educators with Digital Pedagogy and Technology’. They are taught the ins and outs of improving reading and assessment methods through technology-based teaching.
Apart from this, how using Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality can make teaching interesting for students and how game-based learning methods can be used-these topics were also taught in the day’s workshop. Kaushal Kumar Bhagat, Assistant Professor of Advanced Technology Development Center, one of the organizers of the workshop and Vice Chairman of CTLVS, along with other officials also held a detailed discussion with the participating teachers.
After the workshop, the participating teachers reported that their participation in the program increased their understanding of the use of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality. It also gave students an opportunity to think about how technology can be used to make reading more interesting.
“Strategies have been taught to use realistic technology for assessment. I want to use that method in my teaching as well,” said one of the participating teachers.
When questioned why is this workshop relevant, Prof. Kaushal Kumar Bhagat said that as one of the initiatives of CTLVS, the main aim of this workshop was to teach how teachers can adapt to digital and technological changes in the education sector.
He further said, “The workshop also elaborated on the relevance of using technology in creating an appropriate learning environment. Based on the enthusiasm of the participants, it can be hoped that more teachers will be interested in digital learning in the future.”
Key topics covered during the workshop included:
Digital Pedagogy: Integrating technology to foster more engaging teaching methods.
Assessment and Evaluation: Using digital tools to improve student assessment processes.
Interactive Technologies like AR/VR: Exploring immersive learning experiences through Augmented and Virtual Reality.
Game-based Learning: Engaging students through gamification techniques.
Participants praised the workshop, calling it very informative and useful and emphasizing its practicality in today’s classrooms. One participant noted, “The AR/VR demonstration was eye-opening and gave us fresh ideas on how to engage students.” Another participant said, “The digital tools for assessment were very practical and something I can start using immediately in my own teaching.”
The workshop is part of a broader initiative by CTLVS to support educators in adapting to digital transformations in education and creating more interactive and immersive learning environments.
By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer)
Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
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To foster an ecosystem for cutting-edge research, commercialization of technologies, and strategic partnerships with industries in West Bengal, Hon’ble Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan and Minister of State for Education Dr. Sukanta Majumdar visited the IIT Kharagpur Research Park in Kolkata on 20th August 2024. The Research Park is a concept of integrated eco-system that provides research facilities including technical and infrastructure support along with other paraphernalia services. It focuses on R&D-driven innovation and product-oriented developmental activities using the institute’s wide expertise base and catering to the needs of the Nation and the interests of industry, entrepreneurs, and government agencies.
The IIT Kharagpur Research Park at Rajarhat, Kolkata, is a Section 8 Company, which is a globally recognized hub for innovation, research and technology transfer. With a built-up area of about 1.8 lakh square feet, a carpet area of 1.0 lakh square feet has been developed at Rajarhat, New Town, in Kolkata with funding from the Ministry of Education. It aims to emerge as a single window for national missions, start-ups, industry collaborations, host institutes’ incubators, R&D activities and outreach activities with different partners associated with the Institute and acts as an interface for the industry to collaborate on the commercialization of innovations.
The goals and objectives of the Research Park are to promote collaborative and interdisciplinary research through the sharing of facilities; Enabling technology transfer and commercialization of innovations; Supporting and incubating science and technology-based start-ups; Providing specialized training programs and workshops; Undertaking community outreach initiatives to promote awareness on scientific advancements; and Attracting international partnerships and projects to address global challenges.
The Research Park aims to facilitate the activities of academic units and Centres of Excellence at IIT KGP. Aiming to drive breakthroughs in science and technology research for the benefit of society through strategic partnerships and state-of-the-art facilities, the research park started a nursery industrial estate for small-scale industries at suitable places. It created a pool of sophisticated machine tools, analytical and test equipment, computers with semi-industrial processors and other facilities to support both industrial and central services to sponsored entrepreneurs.
At the same time, it will work with aspiring students, research scholars, staff and faculty members for technology and knowledge-based business development by hand-holding, ease of doing business, and providing IPR and patenting services, developing mechanisms to promote the dissemination of knowledge, cross-fertilization of ideas, and intellectual collaboration. Such interactions aim at enabling the creation of advanced technological solutions for the present and envisaged future industrial and social ecosystem.
During their visit, the Ministers took a tour of the state-of-the-art facilities at the IIT Kharagpur Research Park and met the TCS team of researchers and consultants. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has booked about 30,000 sq ft of space in the science and research park to house its research and development team.
Hon’ble Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan took cognizance of the collaborative efforts of the 9 Higher Educational Institutions in West Bengal including NIT Durgapur, IISER Kolkata, IIEST Shibpur, IIIT Kalyani, Visva Bharti, IIM Kolkata, NITTR Kolkata, GKCIET Malda, and IIT Kharagpur in terms of research, technology transfer and commercialization, entrepreneurship, training programs, community engagement and infrastructure development. Shri Pradhan reviewed the intuitions, their academic performance, research projects, industry collaborations, rankings and ratings of IIT Kharagpur and other centrally-funded higher education institutions (HEIs) in West Bengal, as well as their future plans for growth and development. He also reiterated the words of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, urging the institutions to reignite the spirit of Nalanda, aiming to transform them into world-class knowledge hubs and contribute to the vision of “Viksit Bharat.”
Prof. V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur, remarked, “This visit highlights the continued focus of the Ministry of Education on strengthening India’s position as a global leader in education, research, and innovation. The IIT Kharagpur Research Park, with its advanced research capabilities and robust industry ties, plays a pivotal role in this vision. It fosters a dynamic environment for cutting-edge research and entrepreneurship, offering academic credits for start-up activities, supporting faculty-driven projects, and facilitating alumni startups through the EIR program and IPR licensing. Startups associated with the Institute or its technologies receive priority support.”
By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer) Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
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As the country enters its 78th year of Independence, IIT Kharagpur also enters its 74th year of foundation on 18th August 2024 which was adorned by the eminent personalities. Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G-20 Sherpa and Former CEO of NITI Aayog graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Dr. S P Somanath, Chairman ISRO; Dr. Samir V Kamat, Chairman, DRDO and Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Padma Vibhshan Awardee and Former MP, Rajya Sabha also graced the occasion as the Guests of Honour. The invocation started by hoisting the national flag and institute flag at the main building. Gitindra Saran Sanyal Faculty Excellence Awards; Young Alumni Achievers Awards, Nina Saxena Excellence in Technology Award; Staff Excellence Awards were conferred along with the institute employees who were felicitated upon completing 25 years of service.
Prof. Karabi Das, Dean Outreach welcomed all the dignitaries with her opening speech saying, “Today marks a significant milestone in our journey as we reflect on our rich history, celebrate our current achievements and envisioned our future filled with hope and innovation. It is my honour to see a diverse and distinguished group of people who have played a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of our institute. Our foundation day is not just a celebration of our history but a tribute of the collaborative spirit that propels IIT Kharagpur forward. When IIT Kharagpur was established in 18th August, 1951, it was found on the principles of excellence in education, ground breaking research, innovation and a strong commitment to societal impact. Today we have come a long way becoming global leaders in education and research which could not have been possible without the dedication of our faculty, brilliance of our students, ingenuity of our staffs and the continued encouragement and support of our Alumni. Today as we celebrate our Foundation, we also acknowledge the challenges that have defined our journey. Our institute’s strength lies in our abilities to adapt, innovate and lead with purpose, we are proud of the numerous contributions our communities have made in advancing technology and addressing the critical issues facing our world. The strong presence of all the dignitaries is the testament of all the strong network and collaboration that has helped us to grow. I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Alumni for their continued engagement and contributions which have been essential for our growth and development along with my deepest gratitude to each and every member of the IIT Kharagpur family, your unwavering support, dedication and spirit have made a profound difference. Once again, I welcome you all to our 74th Foundation Day and look forward to a memorable day and inspiring day of reflection, celebration and forward looking dialogue.”
Prof. Rabibrata Mukherjee, Dean of International Relations congratulated all the awardees and welcomed everybody to the 74th Foundation Day of the Institute. He remarked that people might be wondering why is there a Dean of International Relations in an Indian Institute of Technology to which I would like to say that Shri Amitabh Kant ji is the testimony that we are no longer satisfied with what we are doing in the country. India is now poised to become global leaders and definitely technology and science is one such domain. While we are thriving to become the very best in the country, we are also competing and collaborating with the best in the world where incidentally are alumni are spread all over, if you talk about any institution, any organization, our alumni are present there. Today the world has changed a lot, previously when people needed to find some information, some data, people used to look in the newspapers, Encyclopedia Britannica, today when you want to check something where do you go, you go to Google which is headed by an IIT Kharagpur Alumnus. So, that is the level of internationalization that the IIT system has produced and I take lot of pride in telling everyone that this is the place that has given India its best known international brand that is the IIT System. So I welcome all of you here and to the Alumni and Young Alumni Achievers who are visiting us, you were students for 4 years but you are Alumni and KGPians for life. Just the way your teachers and professors have helped shaping you and your career either by attending the lectures and staying away from them, please understand that now the institute needs your help. We need active support, feedback, orientation, suggestions from the Alumni so kindly help us. You grow, you shine and along with you your Alma Mater will also shine.”
Prof. Rintu Banerjee, Deputy Director, IIT Kharagpur in her welcoming address said, “We are celebrating our 74th Foundation Day and we are entering the platinum jubilee celebration this year. As the institute of Eminence, IIT Kharagpur has successful glorious stories, which have revolutionized the scientific motivations. And if we look back, the first day the institute had started with 42 faculty members and 224 students and on today’s date we have around 17,000 student community and 800+ faculty members in this institute. If we see the different departments, centers and schools then we can find that around 58 such departments, schools and centers and the most recently added department is the AI department. Everybody nowadays is talking about AI and IIT Kharagpur has thought to start the Undergraduate B.Tech programme in AI and this year 51 students have joined this programme. If we see the magnitude and diversity of this particular institute, we can find that in this institute, we have several unique departments that start with ocean and naval architecture. It has new different centres of excellence like the Advance Manufacturing Technology, Advance Transportation, Safety and Reliability Engineering, Advance Manufacturing Engineering, Artificial Engineering, Precision Agriculture and Food Nutrition are few to name. Now the institute expands its horizons in the field of medical education. Many of you are aware that we have started the New Hospital which is called the Syama Prasad Mukherjee Institute of Medical Science and Research. None of this would have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, students and our Alumni. We owe our deepest gratitude to our current Member and future generations including our founding fathers who laid out the ground work of this institution, let us honour their legacy by upholding the values what IIT Kharagpur is today. In the recent address of our Education Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan ji, he emphasized a compelling vision of Indian Institute of Technologies. He highlighted that the need of IITs is not to just excel within the country but we have to go completely globally. IIT Kharagpur has already started and implemented the New Education Policy NEP 2020 and from this year we have given the flexibility of multiple entry and exists and double degree for the newly entered students of this institute. The major strength that lies with IIT Kharagpur is the globally recognized faculty members, students and the researchers as a result, in the Global QS Ranking, we are 222nd. In NIRF ranking also, we have improved a little bit which is not satisfactory, but we are working in that direction. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who have been a part of this remarkable journey, your passion, commitment and the vision have shaped IIT Kharagpur into what it is today. And together we will continue to drive its success into the future. Let us celebrate this day with pride, joy and renewed sense of purpose. Here is to many more years of excellence and innovations.”
Prof. V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur,remarked, “I welcome our Guests of Honours who are the two most important persons of India Dr. S P Somanath, Chairman, ISRO and Dr. Samir V Kamar, Chariman, DRDO along with Chief Guest Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G-20 Sherpa & Former CEO of NITI Aayog. In addition to our long term association, Chairman DRDO has given us a 25 year DRDO project which is called the DRDO Industry Centre of Excellence. We are inculcating certain strategic and futuristic research in very important areas and I am sure that this project’s outcome will be utilized by DRDO, for the Deference requirement of the country. I would also like to thank our Guest of Honour Dr. Sonal Mansigh, Padma Vibhushan Awardee and Former MP, Rajya Sabha for taking out time and enchanting us with her mesmerizing performances. Our goal has been to be the top 10 universities in the world and we are rigorously working towards it. On the similar lines IIT started out with 224 students and now stands at 17000 students. Our own education research and consultancy with new infrastructure development have been aligned with the country’s growth and requirement. Being the first IIT and the indigenous IIT of the country, the IIT Kharagpur mothered the IIT system structure which was later followed by IIT Bombay and IIT Madras. IIT Kharagpur has the best AQI among all the other IITs, which is between 20-40 and the best atmosphere with beautiful and clean campus and I hope we also perform well in our sustainable initiatives. This is the first IIT to have implemented NEP 2020 in its letter and spirit and changed our course curriculum in 2020. We initiated that anybody who enters IIT Kharagpur should have atleast one course in AI. IIT Kharagpur has the largest number of faculty members working in AI as compared to other IITs and centrally funded universities, having a department in AI with 51 students. We already have an M.Tech in AI and now we are gearing up for having PhD in AI. We are the first IIT to have a Department of Education which was granted to us by the Ministry of Education to produce top quality students and teachers for schools. We are currently providing B.Sc & B.Ed in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Economics. There is a lot of flexibility in the current curriculum as well with students being allowed to pursue any other course they want apart from their parent domain. Having 59 departments, schools, centres and academies, we have branched out to Academy of Classical & Folk Arts where Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Padma Vibhushan accepted our invitation to guide us since last one year.”
Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G-20 Sherpa and Chief Guest of the 72nd Foundation Day of IIT Kharagpur remarked, “For the growing India, we need innovation of the highest order which would require India to become an Innovation hub. This in turn will require us to invest in applied research and market oriented innovation for which we need a huge build-up of Academia-Research-Industry Partnership. We also need to build innovation, infrastructure talent with prototyping and testing to transition from labs to markets. The mistakes we did in our initial years was to establish research Institutes outside which were independent bodies, but all future researches should be part of the academic institutions like the IIT Kharagpur. All CSIR/DSIR institutions should be linked to the academic institutions as all the innovations in the world happens from the academic institutions where professors and students work together, that is how Silicon Valley was created. Industry oriented skills has to come from institutions like IIT Kharagpur and further innovation and research must come IIT research base. High quality patents can lead to huge competitive advantage for India and make India a market leader because patents must lead to commercially viable innovation and all patents must lead to commercial innovation. We also have to enhance the scientific and public innovation. India is paying much more in Intellectual Property Royalties (IPR) than in returns. We have 24000 PhD graduates in India, the US produces 68000 doctoral graduated. According to the economic survey only 51.25% of the Indian graduates are deemed employable. So, we are responsible for whoever we produce from the academic institutions, must not only be employable but should be highly innovative and should be an innovator, disrupting society in a manner that has ever seen before. We need to create many more institutions like ISRO and DRDO which will ensure that our defence imports are brought to zero and we become the world’s leading exporter with space entrepreneurs. The government has taken several initiatives, it has pushed for innovation, a new mission on artificial intelligence, quantum computing, pushed for 76000 crore scheme for semi-conductors and 25000 crore scheme for green hydrogen; 1.93 lakh crores on production linked incentive manufacturing in India so that Make in India & Start-up India receives huge impetus. In a very short time we have become the 3rd best start-up ecosystem in the world. To become the 5 trillion dollar economy in the next 4-5 years, the challenge for India is to raise its per capita income which can come from intuitions like IIT Kharagpur. IIT Kharagpur was the founder of all IITs, it has been the father figure to all IITs. It has not only inspired million of engineers in India but also encouraged all other IITs to become the Centres of Excellence so the future of India is truly in the hands of Institutions like IIT Kharagpur. Its energy, its vitality, its dynamism will shape India in the years to come.”
A total of 09 Faculty Excellence Awards, along with 30 Staff Excellence Awards. Until last year, the staff members who have who have completed 25 years of service were recognized and presented with a wrist watch as a token of appreciation for their unwavering dedication towards the service of the institute. This year for the first time opinions were shared and discussed with the faculty and staff members to suggest something that will have a greater impact of belonginess than just being a souvenir. Therefore, it is decided that a silver medal along with a designer box carrying the IIT Kharagpur logo will be presented to the employees who have completed their distinguished services in the institute. In regard to this, a design competition was organized in the institute to select the design of the medal and the box. The first placed was given to Mr. Sanjeev Halder from the Department of Agricultural & Food Engineering; the second place was give to Dr. Prakash Sharma from Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law and the third place was given to Mr. Sunil Patra from Computer and Informatics Centre. A total of 74 employees were recognized for their uninterrupted 25 years of service to the Institution.
When the Guest of Honours became the Awardees
In an exciting and surprising change of events the 74th Foundation Day of IIT Kharagpur was changed in to a quick set-up of Convocation Day for the Conferment of our Life Fellow Awards of 2023 to Dr. S P Somanath, Chairman ISRO and Dr. Smair V Kamat, Chairman, DRDO.
The Man, the Legend, the Achiever, Dr. Sreedhara Panicker Somanath is the Distinguished Scientist and Chairman of Indian Space Research Organization. Under his chairmanship, ISRO carried out the third Indian lunar exploration mission named Chandrayaan-3, making India the first country to successfully land a spacecraft near the lunar south pole and the fourth country to demonstrate soft landing on the Moon. Dr. Somanath also served as the Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram and Director of Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, Thiruvananthapuram. He is globally renowned for his contributions to launch vehicle design, particularly in the areas of launch vehicle systems engineering, structural design, structural dynamics, and pyrotechnics. Also served as a Secretary of the Department of Space and Chairman of Space Commission, he piloted the National Space Policy, draft Space Bill, facilitated IN-SPACe activation, engagement of ISRO with new space actors and leading the Indian Space Enterprise. He also played a crucial role in human rating of the LVM3 launch vehicle for the ambitious Gaganyaan mission for sending Indians to Space. Under his leadership, a new launch vehicle, TV-D1, was developed and successfully demonstrated the crew escape systems capability. An expert in the area of system engineering of Launch Vehicles, under his leadership seven PSLV missions, two GSLV missions and two GSLV-MkIII missions were accomplished successfully along with the successful demonstration of the Pad Abort Test (PAT). Awarded the Doctorate of Science (Honoris Causa) by SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Somanath has been providing leadership in motivating young minds through innovative programs of outreach and spreading the awareness of the power of space technology on the lives of common people of this country.
After receiving the award Dr. S P Somanath, Chairman ISRO, said “Thank you so much for this opportunity and selecting me for the Life Fellow Award. I would like to tell you that I am totally 100% made in India product. Whatever I did was from the knowledge and skill I acquired from the Indian Space Research Organization. I would like to thank my alma mater and TKM College of Engineering, IISc Bangalore and others. I thank all my teachers and gurus in ISRO and these institutions. Our work has been in building certain capabilities in this organization in the last 38 years along with the years I was working. I am fortunate to work with great people, motivators, leaders, who made ISRO what it is today and had the opportunity to follow their footsteps today and do certain works that made all of us proud like the Chandrayaan 3. This gives us more courage and determination to work towards achieving greater goals in the future. Whatever you are doing, it is great as an institution and the ability to connect with you is very important for all of us in ISRO and other scientific organizations in the world and in this country. There is a great vision ahead for all of us in ISRO and I will like you to be a part of it as well, contributing in your capability in different domains. I would be more than happy to connect the faculty of IIT Kharagpur with the scientist in ISRO for greater goals that we have set for ourselves. Thank you so much for the opportunity.
A Distinguished Alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, Dr. Kamat stands on the pedestal of transformational leadership providing direction to several critical materials programmes in DRDO as the Secretary DDR&D and Chairman Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) such as development of high strength steels for naval ship hulls, development of high temperature titanium alloys and nickel base superalloy based components for aero engines, development of tungsten heavy alloys for kinetic energy penetrators, development of fused silica radomes for missile seekers, development of armor solutions for personnel as well as combat vehicles and stealth materials for airborne and naval applications. He has been conducting cutting-edge research and development on materials for various defense applications for the past three decades and has also spearheaded the development of naval systems such as advanced lightweight torpedo, anti-torpedo decoy systems, autonomous underwater vehicles, advanced hull mounted and towed array sonars for ships and fuel cells based air independent propulsion systems for submarines. Recipient of the Metallurgist of the Year Award from Ministry of Steel and Scientist of the Year Award from DRDO, Dr. Kamat is also responsible for setting-up state-of-the-art experimental facilities at DMRL such as Thin Film Lab, Small Length Scale Mechanical Testing Lab and Stress Corrosion Cracking test facility.
Dr. Samir V Kamat, Chairman, DRDO, “At the outset my greetings to you on your 74th Foundation Day. I am indeed humbled and honoured by this conferment of the Life Fellow Award. As you are aware, I am the Alumni of this institute and it is indeed special when you alma mater recognizes you. Whatever little I have achieved in my career is because of the strong foundation that I got in IIT Kharagpur. And let me say it is not only the knowledge I gained here but it is the life skills that I learnt here which has helped me in my career. So as Dr. Somanath said that when you work in organizations like ISRO and DRDO, it is not individuals who make the difference. It is a collective effort which goes in when you have to realize large systems and where I am standing today is because of all the collaborations and all the team work that several people contributed in achievements that we made. As Dr. Somanath said we are on the threshold of a transformation in the nation. The Prime Minister has given us a clarion call to become a developed country by 2047 and that we should become a technology leader. And this can only happen if academia, industry, R&D organizations work together, work in synergy and develop innovative technologies which are cutting edge, which are first in the world and I am sure, the way things are going forward in this country, this dream will be achieved even before 25 years are complete. So, thank the Director of IIT Kharagpur for granting me this Life Fellow Award, I will cherish this for the rest of my life.”
The Nina Saxena Excellence in Technology Award 2024 was awarded to Mr. Pankaj Kumar & Mr. Siddhant Aagrwal at IIT Guwahati for developing the technology of Floating Solar PV Technology. The Young Alumni Achiever Award was given to 32 young alumni of IIT Kharagpur honouring excellence in innovations, technological developments, research, community welfare, leadership, entrepreneurship, social impact, nation building, national interest and professional accomplishments.
The Alumni Endowed Chair Professorship Award – Prem Prakash Verma Faculty Award, was instituted by Mr. Sharad Verma distinguished alumni of IIT Kharagpur (1997/B Tech/CH/PH) in the year 2023. The award is given to support the State-of-the-art research in the domain of ‘Mechatronics’ from the Departments of Mechanical Engineering (ME), Electronics & Electrical Communication (E&ECE), Computer Science & Engineering (CSE), G.S Sanyal School of Telecommunication (GSSST) and Rajendra Mishra School of Engineering Entrepreneurship (RMSoEE). This year the award is given to Prof. Anandaroop Bhattacharya, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Kharagpur for his outstanding contribution towards Teaching, Research and Institutional Development.
The G S Sanyal Faculty Excellence Award, instituted by the IIT Kharagpur Alumni Foundation (USA) since the year 2020, is awarded each year to a faculty member of the institute, based on his/her contributions to the students through student-related activities, such as social and cultural activities, technology, innovation and/or entrepreneurship. The purpose of the Award is to recognize a faculty member for going out of the way to help students in academics, social or other matters representing the best of legendary Prof. Gitindra Saran Sanyal. This year the award was bestowed upon Prof. Vikrant Racherla, Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Prof. Debashish Chakravarty, Dean Alumni Affairs, IIT Kharagpur talked about Gurudakshina, an aesthetic giveaway by the Alumni of IIT Kharagpur. Guru Dakshina for my Alma Mater will be received from the Alumni of the institute which will help in making IIT Kharagpur self-reliant over a period of time. The funds received through Guru Dakshina shall alleviate the challenge of collecting funds by the students for Spring Festival, Kshitij, Sports Fest and even for increasing and improving hall amenities. Total 34 Pledges of Gurudakshina has been received with the current batch of students. Dr. V Narayanan, Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, ISRO; Prof. V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur; Prof. Debashish Chakravarty, Dean Alumni Affairs and Commander V K Jaitly, Chairman, C_cube Consultants are the donors who have already contributed their part of Gurudakshina to IIT Kharagpur.
Dr. Sonal Mansigh, Padma Vibhushan Awardee & Former MP, Rajya Sabha in her address said,” I am very happy to know about the Gurudakshina scheme as India really believes in this Guru-Shisya Parampara in which I have also learnt. Science and Arts are like Ganga and Yamuna, they always have met with each other. All Rishis and Munis were scientists and the ashrams were then the laboratories where experiments went on for decades and sometime centuries and then we got the results. IIT Kharagpur is one such ashram in modern day India and I am sure it will continue to produce great minds and great names who will contribute to India and to the world proving “Vasudeva Kutumbakam.” With this, I would like to share a quicks thought that, this is not the season for flowers anyway but my most favorite sweet is honey. You cannot describe the taste of honey except to say or use as an Upama or analogy saying as sweet as honey and all the beloveds are called honey. We have to have bees to collect Amitra from varied flowers and convert them to honey but it is not of their own use, it is for the common good and this is exactly the message of Vidya and Knowledge which is not only for self-glorification but it is to be shared, spread around so that the common good is achieved and the global benefits are achieved. I am sure, that IIT Kharagpur is the “Bee-Hive” producing honey, so I wish you all great brilliant years ahead and wish IIT Kharagpur great future, delighted to be a part of it.
“The institute is also working towards all the 12 areas in G-20 declarations and have conducted several programmes aligned with its vision in various disciplines like AI, semiconductors, energy and environment, working on sustainability, quantum mission, rare earth metals etc. By 2030, we will be 30 trillion dollar economy where the role of IITs will play a major aspect for growth and development along with the role of MSMEs which employs around 10 crore people with 27% GDP in employability, education and services. We also have various Centres of Excellence in Advance Manufacturing Technologies and Industry 4.0 , the SAATHI (Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institutes) centre with students and experts participating in capacity building to create good products for a global market. We are also working on 6G and beyond with a centre of excellence funded by one of our Alumni. From the last 30 years we are also working on communications and radar. We have instituted the first school of management in an IIT system, the Vinod Gupta School of Management conceived by our Alumnus Vinod Gupta along with the Academy of Leadership started by one of our Alumnus Partha Ghosh, which was never heard of before in an IIT. These unique inclusions will take us to the top 10 in the world in the coming years. With these strong foundations and strong alumni network with the likes of Mr. Sundar Pichai who has said that very soon he would develop a strategic partnership with IIT Kharagpur as well. So, we are growing towards a performance based direction not only as an academic institute, we are also becoming the knowledge economy for India and for the world. I would like to congratulate all the winners of the Young Alumni Achievers Awards, the people who have completed 25 years of services in the institute, the faculty and the staff excellence awards,” added Prof. Tewari
By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer) Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
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Esteemed Alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, Mr. Arjun Malhotra who is widely renowned for his instrumental role in co-founding the HCL Group, way back in 1975 and is currently the Chairman of the Advisory Board of Altysys sent a heart-warming message to welcome the Freshers of the Y2024. As a proud Alumnus, he recalls his days in his Alma Mater and shares the anecdotes that will help the new undergrads to have a home away from home. The Institute is indeed overwhelmed for the inspiring words of Mr. Malhotra for our newbies.
“”Hello KGPians, this is Arjun Malhotra. I am an Electronics Graduate from 1970.I want to welcome all of you to @IIT Kharagpur. I hope you all see the advantage of being in a small town like Kharagpur away from the metros. The important thing here is, this Institute allows you to make a life for your own. You do not have to rush to the city to enjoy yourself. You enjoy your life, set-up you own life, make friends and do things that you normally may or may not do when you are in a city. When I was there, I played games, acted in plays, was in debates, quizzes etc. both at the institute and at the department level and in the hostels. So make friends, I think this is great opportunity. I will be there in campus on January 2025 around spring festival time. It is a 60th year of joining and over a hundred of my batch mates will be there just to tell you about the bonds that living few years in IIT Kharagpur creates among people. So I just want to say, it is great to have you at Kharagpur, all of you please enjoy your stay…there will be lots of issues but you should have lots of fun and I look forward to meeting many of you then and there in January next year. All the very best.” – From Arjun Malhotra (1970/B.Tech/EC/RP)
Arjun Malhotra has been a prominent figure in the Indian IT entrepreneurial scene. He is widely renowned for his instrumental role in co-founding the HCL Group, way back in 1975. After an illustrious career in HCL, he went on to successfully build and exit companies such as TechSpan and Headstrong. Malhotra’s wisdom has helped in building several organizations worldwide as well as eminent institutions, such as ISB, Hyderabad, and IIT (Kharagpur) Foundation. His contributions to the Indian IT industry were recognized with several distinguished awards, including the Albert Einstein Technology Medal in 2001 and the DQ Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. Altysys, a data and cloud-first start-up with deep expertise in the healthcare IT consulting and services ecosystem has appointed Arjun Malhotra as the chairman of its advisory board.
“I am extremely excited and honored to have joined Altysys as the chairman of the advisory board. Altysys has the potential for rapid growth and innovation. Together, we shall drive innovation, foster digital solutions, and prioritize data security, all with a steadfast dedication to improving patient outcomes and shaping the future of healthcare,” said Arjun.
Malhotra, acclaimed for his distinctive insights into IT industry, was the first leading Indian entrepreneur to relocate to USA who took over HCL’s US operations (now known as HCL Technologies) in 1989 and grew it to nearly $100 million annual revenues. He has a long string of entrepreneurial successes. He has served as Chairman of Headstrong’s Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of TechSpan. He is on the Board of Governors of ISB, Hyderabad and IIT (Kharagpur) Foundation. Arjun’s contributions to the Indian IT industry were recognized with several distinguished awards, including the Albert Einstein Technology Medal in 2001 and DQ Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. Arjun is presently an Advisor in a number of start-ups in Education and healthcare verticals.
Reacting to the news, Abhinav Mishra, the CEO of Altysys said, “We are absolutely thrilled that Arjun has agreed to chair our advisory board. His vast expertise will undoubtedly steer Altysys toward unprecedented growth and success. With his guidance, we are poised to revolutionize healthcare technology services and deliver innovative solutions that will transform the industry and positively impact countless lives.”
“Altysys, under the guidance of Malhotra, will be aiming for the next orbit of growth. The company is already growing exponentially as it serves multiple clients from the healthcare and insurance industries to facilitate their data, AI/ML, and cloud initiatives, improving patients’ and HCPs’ outcomes,” he added.
The company founded by executives with several years of experience in technology consulting and services, is a provider of healthcare technology consulting and solutions. Headquartered in Bengaluru the company is a data and cloud-first company with deep expertise in health clouds, data interoperability, data analytics, GenAI, and AI/ML-enabled technology solutions, serving Payers, Providers, Health Techs, and Pharma.
Media Courtesy:
https://startup.outlookindia.com/sector/saas/altysys-appoints-arjun-malhotra-as-new-chairman-of-advisory-board-news-9454
By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer) Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
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“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” ~ Marie Curie.
The Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur hosted an Induction Meet for the students to welcome its new batch of undergraduate students with a dynamic and engaging four-day orientation programme, setting the stage for a memorable start to their academic journey. Held at the Netaji Auditorium, the event offered freshers an immersive introduction to the institute’s vibrant community, rich traditions, and cutting-edge resources. The orientation aimed to seamlessly integrate the new students into the vibrant campus environment and familiarize them with the academic and administrative structures of the institute.
During this long induction programme, freshers came to know about the plethora of student-run societies, clubs & cells of the college and also the various advanced research facilities including CoEAI & CoEAMT which are designed specifically for research purposes and higher studies. The programme consisted of several cultural shows conducted by the cultural clubs of our college entertaining the audience and picking the interests of the freshers.
Highlights of the Orientation Programme:
Heartfelt Welcome for Parents: The orientation kicked off with a special session for parents, aimed at easing their minds and introducing them to IIT-KGP’s robust academic and administrative framework. Parents were reassured of the institute’s dedication to delivering world-class education and comprehensive support for their children’s success.
Meet the Leadership: The programme featured appearances by key figures including Director Prof. Virendra Tewari, Deputy Director Prof. Rintu Banerjee, and Registrar Capt. Amit Jain (Retd.) who gave their insightful addresses and profound backgrounder of the institute, its moto, its vision and its mission for the freshers, providing valuable guidance and set a tone of excellence and support.
Exploration of Campus: Freshers enjoyed guided bus tours of the sprawling IIT-KGP campus, exploring landmarks like the Ramanujam Complex, various academic departments, and the impressive Nalanda Classroom Complex. The tours included captivating narratives about the campus’s history and state-of-the-art facilities.
Interactive Buddy Sessions: To foster connections and ease the transition, new students were grouped into teams of 20 and paired with 2-3 seniors. These interactive sessions featured fun games and informative discussions, helping freshers navigate campus life and build lasting friendships.
Cultural Extravaganza: The orientation showcased the vibrant cultural life at IIT KGP through a series of performances by the student clubs. These lively displays not only entertained but also highlighted the rich array of cultural activities awaiting the freshers.
Personalized Mentoring: In an innovative support initiative, small groups consisting of four freshers and a senior student from the 3rd or 4th year were formed. This mentoring approach aims to provide personalized guidance on academic and residential matters, ensuring a smooth transition into college life.
Residence Allocation: Freshers have been assigned to their new homes with boys residing in the Lal Bahadur Shastri Hall of Residence (LBS), the largest hall on campus, while girls will stay in the Sister Nivedita Hall of Residence (SNVH). These accommodations are designed to offer comfort and foster community.
Exciting Curriculum Updates: The academic curriculum has been updated with department-specific classes, the abolition of branch change, and the introduction of a Dual Degree programme that students can opt for at the end of their 1st and 2nd years, adding flexibility and opportunities for advanced study.
“Our induction programme for the Class of 2024 marks the beginning of an exciting chapter at IIT Kharagpur. This meticulously designed orientation is not only about acquainting students with our academic framework but also about welcoming them into a community where curiosity and collaboration thrive. We are dedicated to providing a holistic introduction that balances essential academic information with opportunities for personal growth and cultural enrichment. By fostering early connections and offering robust support, we aim to empower our new students to navigate their journey with confidence and enthusiasm. We are eager to see them contribute to and benefit from the experiences that make IIT Kharagpur truly exceptional,” said Prof. Rintu Banerjee, Deputy Director, IIT Kharagpur.
While speaking in the Induction Programme 2024, Prof. Virendra Tewari, Director, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur remarked, “As we welcome the Class of 2024 to IIT Kharagpur, we are excited to introduce them to our unique blend of academic rigor and vibrant campus life. This year’s induction was more special as it gave the parents an opportunity to interact with me, the Deputy Director, the Academic Deans and the respective professors about what strengthens of character are needed for their children to pursue a holistic development and fulfill individual aspirations. This year’s induction programme is crafted to not only familiarize our new students with the essentials of college life but to also immerse them in the rich traditions and dynamic culture that define our institute. Our goal is to ensure every student feels embraced, empowered, and ready to excel. Through engaging interactions, insightful guidance, and cultural immersion, we are committed to making their transition as smooth and inspiring as possible. We look forward to witness their growth and achievements as they embark on this transformative journey with us.”
The institute also rolled out the red carpet for its newest PhD and MS students, ushering them into the vibrant KGP family. The festivities kicked off with a dynamic and inspiring welcome address from Prof. V K Tewari, Director IIT Kharagpur who warmly embraced the incoming scholars and highlighted the prestigious legacy of the “Mother of All IITs,” in the presence of Prof. Rintu Banerjee, Deputy Director; Prof. P K Dutta, Dean, Faculty of Inter Disciplinary and Biotechnology & Biosciences and Captain Amit Jain (Retd.), Registrar of the Institute.
The celebration continued with Prof. Bhargab Maitra, Dean of Student Affairs, alongside Associate Deans—Prof. Santanu Chattopadhyay, Prof. Koel Chaudhury, and Prof. Tapas Laha—taking the center stage. They captivated the audience with personal stories and valuable insights, blending humor and wisdom as they shared their own transformational timeline of journey from students to mentors. The energy was palpable as they recounted the highs and lows of their academic paths, offering both motivational and practical guidance to the newbies.
Mr. Dhritiman Sarkar, IPS, Superintendent of Police for Paschim Medinipur District, West Bengal, added a valuable dimension to the event with his presence. His insightful address highlighted crucial aspects of campus safety, reassuring students about the comprehensive safety measures and security protocols in the institute. Mr. Sarkar provided practical information on how to access these resources, emphasizing the commitment to create a secure and supportive environment for all. His participation underscored the importance of safety and well-being, further enlightening the new students.
The event is a powerful reminder of the supportive and spirited community that defines IIT Kharagpur, setting a high-energy tone for the new students’ academic adventures ahead. As you step into this new chapter, we want you to know that you’re not just joining an institution, but a vibrant community of curious minds and passionate hearts. Here at IIT Kharagpur we believe in nurturing not just brilliant researchers, but also kindred spirits who support and uplift one another.
This year for the first time IIT Kharagpur opened its gates for the JEE Qualified Candidates 2024. The Institute held Open House Campus Tour where 15 JEE Qualified Candidates of 2024 visited IIT Kharagpur along with their parents and explored the ambience of the largest and the first IIT of the nation. The team of JEE Candidates were joined by the IIT students in the fun and exciting campus tour of the institution including visits to various departments, labs, centres of excellence, student activity centres, Technology Students’ Gymkhana and some of the major attractions of the KGP community. They interacted with the existing students of the institute to know about the course curriculum and how IIT KGP turned out to be their desirable destination for steering ahead their aspirational career goals and the custodian of their dreams.
By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer) Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
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Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur signed of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Leeds (UoL) in recognition of the growing importance of India and a long-term partnership with University of Leeds. This collaboration aims to enhance academic and research cooperation through the joint supervision of PhD programs in the fields of Civil Engineering, Transport Studies, and Biological Sciences.
A team from IIT Kharagpur was invited to join the University of Leeds’ 25-Year Celebrations in Delhi on the 28th of June 2024. This special occasion also featured the signing of the Joint External Supervision Agreement, commemorating the longstanding relationship between University of Leeds and IIT Kharagpur. The signing comes at an opportune moment for IITKGP, hot on the heels of a 13-member team visit of faculty members from IIT Kharagpur to University of Leeds during June 4-6, 2024.
Prof. Rabibrata Mukherjee, Dean, International Relations, IIT Kharagpur, opined that “IIT KGP is excited to team up with University of Leeds to explore the diversity of academic partnership. Under the aegis of the MoU, several activities have been carried out including joint research projects, exchange of students and faculty members, joint guidance of student thesis, etc. To further strengthen the collaboration, the two Institutes now have the External Joint Supervision Agreement, which will immensely benefit doctoral students, wherein they will receive mentorship and guidance from faculty members of both the Institutes. The initial themes of collaboration that have been identified are Clean Energy for All, Sustainable Transport, Resilient Infrastructure, Healthcare and Well-Being, Chemicals and Waster, and Water and Sanitation which also address some of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.”
University of Leeds
Prof. Manuel Barcia, Dean of Global Engagement at the University of Leeds, commented on the partnership, saying, “We are thrilled to embark on this collaborative journey with IIT Kharagpur. This MoU not only strengthens our international ties but also underscores our commitment to fostering global academic excellence. By integrating our research capabilities and academic expertise, we are paving the way for innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. This partnership will undoubtedly enhance the educational experience for our students and contribute to groundbreaking advancements starting with the fields of Civil Engineering, Transport Studies, and Biological Sciences. We are optimistic that as this partnership strengthens further, we will broaden our collaboration to other subject areas to benefit more students, researchers and the world at large.”
In an endeavour to continue the path of sustained collaboration with University of Leeds, IIT KGP has already started discussions on the ‘Jointly Funded Bilateral Mobility Agreement’ and it is also expected that IIT KGP will be a part of the ‘Joint Virtual Centre of Excellence on Sustainable Development’ which is being envisioned by the University of Leeds.
IIT Kharagpur
In addition to the above, IIT KGP is also looking into the possibility of participating in the ‘Leeds International Partners Conference’ which is slotted to take place in December 2024 and will be the first of its kind for Leeds. It is expected that this would give IIT KGP an opportunity to make its existing collaboration with the University of Leeds more robust and effectively use the platform to engage with its partners and share knowledge on topics of mutual interest.
This collaboration between the University of Leeds and IIT Kharagpur is poised to have a transformative impact on the future of higher education and research in both countries. By combining the strengths of two leading institutions, this partnership will foster an environment of innovation, creativity, and intellectual exchange. Students and researchers will benefit from diverse perspectives and cutting-edge resources, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements.
Also, by working together to tackle global issues, this MoU will serve as an example of international cooperation. Biological sciences, transport studies, and civil engineering are among the fields where the merger of knowledge and experience from both institutions would not only improve research and education quality but also help solve important problems. Through this relationship, other universities will be inspired to explore comparable projects to strengthen international academic and research networks and set the standard for future collaborations.
The new partnership is in line with both institutes’ strategic objectives to promote multidisciplinary research and broaden their global networks. The University of Leeds and IIT Kharagpur are sure that their partnership will result in ground-breaking findings and have a long-lasting effect on society.
By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer) Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
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Partha Ghosh Academy of Leadership (PGAL) at IIT Kharagpur is back again with a Leadership Talk Series and this time with the most renowned and celebrated leaders of time, Mr. Amitabh Kant, Ex-CEO of NITI Aayog and India’s G-20 Sherpa who will speak on Leadership in Public Service on 28th May 2024. He is the man who is an exceptional bureaucrat and a driving force behind transformative initiatives such as ‘Make in India,’ ‘Start Up India,’ and ‘Ease of Doing Business.’ His deep understanding of ethical leadership, inclusive policymaking, and innovative mobility solutions has positioned him as one of India’s most influential thought leaders. Mr. Kant’s visionary approach has significantly contributed to shaping India’s economic landscape and fostering an environment of growth and innovation.
PGAL is excited to share the latest updates and developments from the academy, where they are dedicated to nurturing and empowering the leaders of tomorrow. The Academy of Leadership gears up to conduct a Leadership Talk Series on Cultivating Ethical Leadership by bridging the universe within with the universe outside. Recently, the academy had the privilege of running an intensive Leadership Training program for the National Informatics Centre (NIC). This program was specially designed to equip NIC professionals with the skills and insights necessary to navigate and lead in the rapidly evolving landscape of information technology and digital governance.
The comprehensive curriculum covered a wide range of topics including strategic thinking, effective communication, change management, and innovation. Through interactive workshops, case studies, and practical exercises, participants were able to develop a deeper understanding of leadership principles and how to apply them in their daily roles. The feedback from NIC participants has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the transformative impact of the training on their professional lives.
Empowering the Ministry of Education
In addition to working with NIC, the academy of leadership has also conducted a leadership training program for the Ministry of Education. This initiative aimed to enhance the leadership capabilities of education sector professionals, enabling them to drive reforms and improvements within the educational system.
We are thrilled to announce an incredible opportunity to attend a virtual lecture by the esteemed Mr. Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog. This event, organized by the Partha Ghosh Academy of Leadership at IIT Kharagpur, promises to be a source of invaluable insights and inspiration for all attendees.
Featured Speakers 🎤
In addition to Mr. Kant, they are honored with the presence of:
Dr. Partha S. Ghosh: A distinguished scholar and leader in his own right, who will offer his insights on leadership and strategic thinking.
Commander VK Jaitly: With extensive experience in leadership and management, he will provide a compelling perspective on effective organizational dynamics.
One of the highlights of the leadership academy is the Monthly International Leadership Talk Series, where they host world-renowned leaders to discuss various aspects of “Leadership Education” and more. These online sessions are an incredible opportunity for aspiring leaders to gain insights from some of the most influential figures in the field of leadership.
Each month, a distinguished speaker shares their experiences, challenges, and strategies for effective leadership. Topics range from global leadership trends to personal development and resilience. Our recent sessions have featured leaders from diverse backgrounds, including corporate executives, thought leaders, and innovators.
The Academy encourages everyone to join these insightful sessions to learn from the best and stay updated on the latest trends in leadership. To stay informed about upcoming talks and other programs, be sure to follow the respective social media channels.
Follow Us on Social Media
To keep the community engaged and informed, the academy actively shares leadership tips, updates, and announcements on their social media channels. Whether you are looking for daily inspiration, practical advice, or information about their programs, the social media platforms are a valuable resource.
By following PGAL, you will be the first to know about their latest initiatives, upcoming events, and exclusive content. Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay connected and be part of our growing community of leaders.
Partha Ghosh Academy of Leadership is committed to provide world-class leadership education and training. Their programs for NIC and the Ministry of Education, coupled with our International Leadership Talk Series, are designed to inspire and empower leaders across various sectors.
We invite you to join us on this journey of learning and growth. Participate in their programs, attend their monthly talks, and follow us on social media to stay updated and engaged. Together, we can build a future where effective, compassionate, and innovative leadership drives positive change.
Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology (DST) visited Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institute (SATHI) facility, a flagship programme of DST, GOI, hosted at IIT Kharagpur and inaugurated the highly sophisticated R&D infrastructure: Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) and High-Resolution Aberration Corrected Transmission Electron Micron (HRTEM), one of its kind, on 12th April, 2024 in the presence of Prof. V K Tewari, Director; Prof. Amit Patra, Deputy Director; Prof. Rintu Banerjee, Dean, R&D; Prof. Rabibrata Mukherjee, Chairman, SATHI of IIT Kharagpur along with the students, faculty and staff members of the institute and other officials of DST.
During his opening remarks, Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, DST emphasized about the strategy entails of SATHI establishment, which sustains with shared equipment within a collaborative framework and networking with near-by MSMEs, start-ups, industries & academic organizations, guided by a self-sustaining roadmap. Spearheading the establishment of the SATHI facility, emphasizing its pivotal role in propelling the development of new materials, innovative products, and cutting-edge technologies in advanced materials characterization. By adopting this approach, DST strives to foster the convergence of diverse expertise, regional vigor, and institutional eminence to lead the vibrant scientific eco-system.
“It is a delight to visit the first and the largest IIT of the country which shares a profound historical significance and laid the foundation for the technical studies in India. IIT Kharagpur has always stood at the helm of transforming technologies and sustainable reforms of technical prowess. This initiative extends a warm invitation for active engagement to various entities within the region, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), industries, and start-ups and scientist to hand hold to gain better societal outreach. With such compelling proposition, the SATHI program has the potential to fortify the R&D infrastructure landscape of the nation,” quoted Prof. Karandikar.
Prof. V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur elaborated the various initiatives the institute is taking in making its Central Research Facility available to masses. He said that one of the instruments HRTEM, is only of its kind in the country and 14th in the world and added, “SATHI is a flagship programme of DST, GOI to promote the culture of deep technology based cutting-edge research not only within academia but also involving industry particularly MSME & start-ups. As a part of the SATHI Facility at IIT KGP, two world class instruments: High Resolution Aberration Corrected Transmission Electron Microscope (HRTEM) & a Time of Flight – Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer (ToF_SIMS) was inaugurated today. I am grateful to Prof. Karandikar that he came to IIT Kharagpur and inspired us with his presence.”
Prof. Rintu Banerjee, Dean (R&D) highlighted the need for government funded projects for industry interactions. Prof. Amit Patra, Deputy Director expressed that SATHI like facility will ignite the spark in the young minds.
Prof. Rabibrata Mukherjee, Chairman, SATHI stated, “The HRTEM allows clear direct visualization of atom & molecules and will be extremely useful for many factories on advanced material based industries. On the other hand, the ToF_SIMs allows determination of self composition and defects and is vital for the semi-conductor industry.”
Faculties and students of the institute explored the immense possibilities of SATHI facility for extensive usage. Prof. Karandikar announced that three new SATHI centres are coming up in the country. He stated that efforts are being made to simplify the fund utilization and other administrative procedures to support ease of doing scientific & technological research. He also delivered an institute lecture on “Connecting the Unconnected in 5G and a Vision for 6G Architecture, a session on future communication system of 6G and beyond in the Netaji Auditorium of the institute.
About SATHI, IIT Kharagpur:
Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institute (SATHI) center at IIT Kharagpur would be offering services such as Characterization, Testing, Fabrication, Scientific analysis/interpretation, generation of data & knowledge dissemination and so on to various external users including start-ups, MSMEs, large scale industry and academia.
The National Centre will give access to unique instruments and facilities to various types of users, which are not readily accessible or available in the country, to inculcate the culture of high-end science-based research, product development and innovation
The key theme of the SATHI center at IIT Kharagpur, which will be managed by SATHI Foundation at IIT Kharagpur (a section 8 company) is Advanced Materials
Currently, SATHI facility at IIT Kharagpur is hosting state of the art High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope (HRTEM) and Time of Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer (ToF-SIMS) instruments. Very soon, a high temperature Universal Testing machine will also be installed.
Inputs by:Prof. Rabibrata Mukherjee,Chaiman, SATHI & Dr. Avinash Joshi, Chief Operating Officer, SATHI Foundation
Email: rabibrata@che.iitkgp.ac.in; coosathi@iitkgp.ac.in
By: Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer) Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
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India’s premier educational institution IIT Kharagpur signed an MoU with Jindal Stainless, the country’s largest stainless steel manufacturer, marking a pivotal moment in the advancement of metallurgical research and development. In a bid to foster industry-academy collaboration, Jindal Stainless and IIT Kharagpur will work together on metallurgical projects, such as process optimization, materials characterization, and primary alloy production. This strategic alliance signifies a significant step forward in metallurgy, promising ground- breaking advancements and fostering a culture of innovation, as both organisations leverage their strengths to drive meaningful progress and contribute to the industry’s growth.
Prof. Virendra K Tewari, Director, IIT, Kharagpur, said, “This MoU with Jindal Stainless adds another milestone to industry-academia collaboration. By combining the academic expertise of IIT Kharagpur with Jindal Stainless, India’s largest stainless manufacturer, we aim to address pressing challenges and unlock new opportunities in the field of metallurgy. IIT KGP is suitably poised to offer technical and operational solutions. Together, we envision pushing the boundaries of innovation, fostering transformative solutions, and nurturing a new era of excellence in stainless steel technology promoting Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) under Vikshit Bharat 2047. This MoU with industry expert will affirm India’s position in global manufacturing industry and contribute to the vision and mission of IIT Kharagpur & the country at large.”
Prof. Virendra K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur; Prof. Rintu Banerjee, Dean, R&D; Prof. Shiv Brat Singh, Dean BTBS & HOD, Dept. of Metallurgy and Prof. Manas Paliwal, Dept. of Metallurgy at IIT Kharagpur were in attendance at the signing ceremony that took place at the IIT Kharagpur campus. Jindal Stainless’ Jajpur Unit Head, Mr. Deepak Agrawal; Business Head (Phase-I) & Chief Metallurgist, Mr. Awanindra K Singh; and Head, R&D, Mr. Daitari Kamila were also present on the occasion. The meeting was virtually attended by CEO, Jindal Stainless, Mr. Tarun Khulbe; COO, Jindal Stainless, Mr. Jagmohan Sood; and CHRO, Jindal Stainless, Mr. Sushil Baveja.
Commenting on the collaboration, Managing Director, Jindal Stainless, Mr. Abhyuday Jindal said, “We are thrilled to embark on this collaborative journey with one of India’s oldest and leading education institutes, IIT Kharagpur. This partnership will enable us to harness cutting-edge research in metallurgy and translate it into tangible solutions that benefit the industry and society at large. The MoU is a testament to our commitment to shaping the trajectory of stainless steel technology and making substantial strides in the industry, contributing to our collective pursuit of an Atmanirbhar India.”
Under the terms of the MoU, IIT Kharagpur will provide technical consultancy and engage in academic and industrial research to enhance productivity and process improvement at Jindal Stainless Limited. They will conduct lab-scale experiments, facilitate material characterization techniques, and support modelling and simulation studies, emphasizing the importance of waste reduction, recycling, and water conservation for sustainable metallurgical practices.
By: Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer) Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007
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Under the able leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, IIT Kharagpur witnessed the testimony towards the road that leads to a Vikshit Bharat @2047, the vision of a Sashakt Bharat. Today Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi dedicated to the Nation the Infrastructure Development Projects worth about Rs. 230 crores at IIT Kharagpur in the august presence of Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State, Prime Minister’s Office; Shri Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir along with other ministers and members of parliament through video conferencing. Dr. Subhas Sarkar, Hon’ble Minister of State for Education graced the event physically on 20th February, 2024 in the Netaji Auditorium of the institute in the presence of Prof. V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur; Prof. Amit Patra, Deputy Director, IIT Kharagpur and Captain Amit Jain (Retd.), Registrar, IIT Kharagpur along with other senior professors, staffs and students of the institute.
In a significant step towards upgrading and developing education and skilling infrastructure across the country, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and lay the foundation stone of several projects worth about Rs 32000 crores. The projects include permanent campuses for different IITs, Indian Institute of Skills (IIS), and campuses of Central and Higher Education Universities.
Gracing the above occasion at IIT Kharagpur, Dr. Subhas Sarkar, Minister of State for Education, Government of India stated, “Our Prime Minister is very keen on Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat Abhiyaan. Today, our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji will be inaugurating and laying the foundation stone of multiple development projects with over Rs. 32,000 crores across the country. India has undergone a major transformation in the past year in every sector under the able guidance of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji. It is fitting to acknowledge the achievements made under his visionary leadership specially in an institution specially known for its contribution towards education and innovation. Over the past 10 years, our nation has undergone a remarkable transformation marked by steadfast commitment to inclusive, progressive and sustainable development. The successful landing of Chandrayaan 3 on the south pole of the moon stands as a testament to our technological power, poise and ambition to explore new frontiers.
The Infrastructure development projects at IIT Kharagpur comprises two Girls’ Hostel named Savitri Bai Phule Halls of Residence (with 500 capacity each); one Boys Hostel named Atal Bihari Vajpayee Hall of Residence (500 capacity) and one Annexe building of the Chemical Engineering Department at IIT Kharagpur.
“I would like to mention that IIT Kharagpur has produced one of the best scientific minds of India who has significantly contributed to the Indian Space Centre, Dr. K Radhakrishnan, Former Chairman of ISRO under whose leadership the historic Mangalyaan Mission was successfully carried out. Education plays a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of a nation’s cloth and development. It empowers individuals with knowledge, skills and critical thinking abilities essential for innovation, productivity and also socio-economic progress. A well educated populist not only drives economic prosperity but also fosters social cohesion, democracy and a global competitiveness making investment in education a corner stone of sustainable development for any country. The Indian education landscape has undergone a major transformation in the past ticket. National Education Policy 2020 was introduced to revise and revamp all aspects of the education structure including its regulation and governance with a new system aligned with the aspirational goals of 21st century education including Sustainable Development Goal-4 (SDG 4) while building on India’s tradition and value systems. The number of university level institutions has increased to 1168 in 2021-22 from 760 universities in 2014-15. With a total of 408 institutions added in the last 10 years, additionally 41 new higher education institutions have been established which includes 7 new central universities, 7 new IITs and 8 new IIMs.”
The Savitri Bai Phulle Halls of Residence for Girls (GH-1 & GH-2) is a Single-seater, air-conditioned accommodation for 500 girls in each hostel. The building is designed as per 3-star TERI GRIHA or LEED-Gold star or IGBC- Gold star rating standards. Built at a cost of approx. 123 crores, the building complies with the guidelines of the Accessible India campaign and with a barrier-free building. It has Central air conditioning, Solar water heating system, Solar PV Generation system, Fire Fighting and alarm system, LAN, CCTV, IBMS, Lifts etc. A dual plumbing system is provided with treated STP water to be used for toilet flushing.
“Under the concept of Vikshit Bharat, the concept of Narishakti emerges as a foundational pillar which signifies our commitment towards empowering women and ensuring their integral role in shaping our nation’s future. Female enrollment in higher education has increased by 28% with girls and women constituting 43% of enrollment in STEM courses, one of the highest percentage globally, ” said MoS Dr. Sarkar.
The Hostel Building also includes the following facilities like Library and Reading room; Music Room and Interaction room; Reception and Visitors Lounge; Dining and kitchen; Shops, Gymnasium; Indoor Games, Cycle Track; Cycle Shed; Car Parking, Washing and drying facilities; Garbage chute for effective waste management.
“The role of the IITs in shaping India’s technological landscape cannot be overstated. Among them, IIT Kharagpur holds a special place with its graduates and alumni consistently making significant contributions to our nation’s progress. We are proud of the endeavours of all our IIT alumni who carry the brand of India with distinction where ever they go, one shining example being Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google who is an esteemed alumni of IIT Kharagpur. Their achievement underscore the enduring legacy of excellence that defines the IITs and their crucial role in building a brighter future of India,” remarked Dr. Subhas Sarkar, Minister of State for Education.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee Halls of Residence for Boys (BH-1) is a Single seater, air-conditioned accommodation for 500 boys. The Building is designed as per 3-star TERI GRIHA or LEED-Gold star or IGBC-Gold star rating standards and complies with the guidelines of the Accessible India campaign with a provision for barrier-free building. Built at a cost of approx. 62 crores, it has Central air conditioning, Solar water heating system, Solar PV General system, Fire Fighting and alarm system, LAN, CCTV, IBMS, Lifts etc. A dual plumbing system is provided with treated STP water to be used in toilet flushing.
The Hostel Building also includes the following facilities like Hostel Building which includes Library and Reading room; Music Room and Interaction room; Reception and Visitors Lounge; Dining and kitchen; Shops; Gymnasium; Indoor Games; Cycle Track; Cycle Shed and Car Parking.
I would congratulate IIT Kharagpur in its new infrastructure and its remarkable strides it has made in nurturing some of the brightest minds in the country. I believe the student community at IIT Kharagpur will play a pivotal role in nation building and contributing to the realization of Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Vision of a Vikshit Bharat 2047, added Dr. Sarkar
The Annex building of the Chemical Engineering Department, IIT Kharagpur is a G +3 building with centralized air conditioning system. Built at a cost of approx. 45 Crore, it has a plinth area of 7458 square meters that houses undergraduate, postgraduate, and research laboratories for Chemical Reaction Engineering, Fluid Flow, Heat Transfer, Mass Transfer, Mechanical Operations, Process Instrumentation and Control, Industrial Pollution Control, Multi-Phase Flow, mCFD, Crystallization, Energy Conversion and Storage, Catalysis, Particle Technology, Ultrafast Cooling, Rheology. It has a common advanced computing laboratory for 300 students at a time and has departmental research facilities with high-end sophisticated analytical instruments like Chemisorption, GC- MS, Mercury Analyzer, ICP-MS, TGA-MS, BET Surface Area Analyzer, conference & meeting rooms, faculty rooms, and classrooms.
Watch the address of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi:
Watch the address ofDr. Subhas Sarkar, Minister of State for Education live: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LUNxLsdM5sKqgq_4veQ1aoTwOPbQqExf?usp=sharing
University of Leeds
IIT Kharagpur
