RT team
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) marked its 65th anniversary with a grand celebration, recognizing its profound legacy of innovation and societal impact. The ceremony, graced by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh as the chief guest, acknowledged the institute’s significant contributions to both national progress and global academia. It was a moment to honor the achievements of IIT Kanpur’s alumni, faculty, students, and staff.
The event commenced with the traditional Saraswati Vandana and was followed by an address from Director Prof. Manindra Agrawal. He discussed the institute’s pivotal role in shaping knowledge, spurring innovation, and crafting leadership. Prof. Agrawal highlighted IIT Kanpur’s commitment to addressing global challenges through pioneering research and strategic collaborations aimed at fostering excellence and societal benefits.
A special session on defense innovation underscored the institute’s support for India’s self-reliance goals under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh toured the Defence Research, Product, and Incubation Showcase, which displayed innovations from 23 startups incubated at IIT Kanpur’s SIIC, featuring advances in AI surveillance, autonomous systems, and communication technologies.
Prof. Deepu Philip from SIIC emphasized the role of these startups in meeting India’s defense needs and pushing the boundaries of technological research. The celebration also included strategic discussions on national defense projects and partnerships aimed at bolstering military and defense innovation.
Key announcements included the signing of multiple MoUs with significant partners like BEML and HAL, and the endorsement of six transformative DRDO projects by Dr. Samir Kamat, DDR&D Secretary and DRDO Chairman. In a symbolic tree planting ceremony, Rajnath Singh highlighted IIT Kanpur’s commitment to ongoing technological advancement and environmental sustainability.
In his address, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged Indian youth to spearhead technological self-sufficiency, particularly in defense, to ensure national progress towards developed status by 2047. He emphasized collaboration over individual efforts in achieving these ambitious goals.
The festivities concluded with the presentation of awards to 18 distinguished alumni, recognizing their significant contributions and steadfast dedication to IIT Kanpur’s ethos of excellence and innovation over the years.
