IIT Roorkee Snippets

April, 2026

• Record-Breaking Contributions: ₹60.25 Cr mobilised during 2023–26
• Major Philanthropic Support:
  • PGCIL (₹20.73 Cr), Mr. Ashok Soota (₹10 Cr), and Batch Donations (₹9.57Cr)
  • Hi-tech Ambulance, Ultrasound Machine, and Prana Health Assist System
  • 2 E-carts promoting a greener campus
• Landmark Infrastructure Developments:
  • LBS Canopy (“99 Not Out”), and 175th Year Commemorative Gate
  • Mahatma Gandhi Library Renovation, Bridgecon Lab, and Ajit Singhvi Conference Room
• Academic Excellence Strengthened: 5 Endowed Professorial Chairs establishment
• Student & Alumni Impact:
  • Over 160 MoUs enabling approximately 120 scholarships & awards.
  • HORIBA, ENCORE and Heritage Excellence Awards.
  • 33 Jubilee Reunions & alumni engagements.
  • Alumni network expanded to 57,000+.
• Prestigious recognitions:
  • 33 prestigious alumni awards conferred (2023-25): 23 Distinguished Alumnus Awards, 6 Distinguished Young Alumnus Awards, and 4 Outstanding Service Awards.
• Institutional Growth Initiatives:
  • Balmer Lawrie Travel Desk established.
• Global Exposure & Outreach(₹ 3,19,50,000/-):
  • Support to students for international conferences, exchanges, and internships. Support to faculty for international visits.

New DoRA Website:

DoRA team has launched a new website aimed at strengthening alumni engagement and enhancing communication with the Institute’s global alumni community.
Designed as a comprehensive digital platform, the website offers seamless access to Institute updates, alumni initiatives, events, and key announcements. It also provides structured information on scholarships, awards, collaborations, and opportunities for alumni to contribute and stay connected with the Institute. A dedicated direct WhatsApp service option has also been integrated to enable quick and convenient communication.
With an improved interface, intuitive navigation, and user-friendly features, the platform is intended to create a more interactive and engaging experience. The initiative reflects IITR’s continued efforts to build a strong, connected alumni network and foster long-term engagement with its stakeholders.

Heritage Excellence Award Ceremony 2025:

DoRA office, organised Heritage Excellence Award Ceremony on April 15, 2026, continuing its longstanding tradition of recognising all-round student excellence. Instituted in 2009 by the IITR Heritage Foundation, USA, the awards honour outstanding performance across academics, co-curricular, and extracurricular domains. This year, 52 students were recognised and awarded a financial grant.
The ceremony was graced by Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IITR; Prof. R.D. Garg, Dean of Resources and Alumni Affairs; Mr. Dinesh Singh Pawar, Former Secretary, IITRAA; and Dr. Achal Mittal, Former Vice President, IITRAA.
The Heritage Excellence Awards continue to foster a culture of merit, innovation, and holistic development, encouraging students to excel across diverse fields and contribute meaningfully to the Institute’s academic ecosystem.

ENCORE Award Ceremony 2025-26:

DoRA office organised the ENCORE Awards on April 15, 2026, a commendable initiative of the 1989 batch aimed at giving back to the Institute. Instituted in 2014 to mark their silver jubilee, the ENCORE (Eighty Nine Class of Roorkee Endowment) Awards honour outstanding student achievements.
This year, 28 meritorious students from the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years were recognised with the award, which includes a financial grant. The ceremony was attended by Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IITR; Prof. R.D. Garg, Dean of Resources and Alumni Affairs; Prof. Anil Kumar, Chairman, SCSP; Mr. Pawan Verma, Chief Engineer, PWD. The initiative continues to promote a culture of excellence, encouraging students to strive for innovation, commitment, and all-round growth.

IITR Wins First Prize at Astronomical Instruments Competition:

IITR undergraduate students Ms. Swastika Sanghi, Mr. Himanshu Sejwal, and Mr. Aman Jain achieved First Prize (Category 2 – UG Level) at the Astronomical Instruments Competition conducted by the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Division. Guided by Prof. Anil Kumar Gourishetty, the team was recognised at the International Conference on “Mahakala: The Master of Time”. Their project, focused on reconstructing traditional instruments inspired by Jantar Mantar, showcased a unique blend of heritage knowledge and modern scientific approach. The accomplishment also highlights the role of the Sanskrit Club at IITR in encouraging interdisciplinary exploration.

IITR Released National Report on Pumped Storage Hydropower:

IITR released its national report, “Paving the Way Forward for Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSP) Development in India,” outlining strategic pathways for long-duration energy storage and supporting India’s Net Zero 2070 goals. The report was released by Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary, MNRE, and led by Prof. Arun Kumar, presenting key recommendations across policy, regulatory, financial, and technological domains. Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IITR, reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Shri Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairman, CEA, highlighted the importance of PSP in renewable integration and grid stability. The report reflects collaborative inputs from government, industry, and academia, strengthening India’s transition towards a resilient, low-carbon energy future.

IITR Establishes Hydro Research Facility:

IITR has set up a first-of-its-kind R&D facility for Ultra Low Head (ULH) and hydrokinetic turbines, marking a significant step towards supporting India’s Net Zero 2070 goals. The facility was inaugurated by Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and aims to accelerate research and deployment of small hydro technologies, particularly suited for low-head and flowing water systems. Developed under the leadership of Prof. Arun Kumar with support from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the initiative focuses on delivering scalable, sustainable, and industry-ready clean energy solutions.
Prof. K. K. Pant, Director, IITR highlighted that the facility reflects the Institute’s commitment to innovation-driven solutions addressing national priorities and global climate challenges.

IITR Hosted TEDxIITRoorkee 2026:

IITR successfully hosted TEDxIITRoorkee 2026 on April 5, under the theme “Zephyr of Change”, bringing together diverse voices for dialogue on transformation and innovation. The event was inaugurated with Deep Prajwalan and the Kulgeet, followed by an address from Prof. Barjeev Tyagi, Dean of Students’ Welfare, in the presence of Prof. Ajanta Goswami, Associate Dean of Students’ Welfare; Prof. Sai Ramudu Meka, Associate Dean of Innovation and Incubation; and Prof. Varun Sharma, Coordinator, TEDxIITRoorkee.
The speaker lineup featured Ms. Dutee Chand, International Sprinter; Ms. Ella D’Verma, Ms. Simaran Kaur, and Ms. Laxmi Agarwal, who shared powerful narratives on resilience, inclusivity, and perseverance. The event concluded with a live performance by Mr. Artsy Rohit, a noted speed painter, featuring artistic depictions including IITR’s Main Building, actor Ranveer Singh, and cricketer Suryakumar Yadav. The event highlighted TEDx’s global ethos of “ideas worth spreading,” reinforcing IITR’s commitment to fostering creativity, dialogue, and progressive thought.

IITR Hosted Global Talk on Urban Happiness:

IITR marked the spirit of the International Day of Happiness 2026 with an online talk titled “City, Equality, Happiness” on April 16, organised by the ‘Happiness by Design’ research group (Department of Architecture and Planning) in collaboration with the Wellness Centre and Centre for the Science of Happiness.
The session featured Enrique Peñalosa, globally renowned urban thinker and former Mayor of Bogotá, widely known as the “Happiness Mayor.” The event was graced by Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IITR. Drawing from his experience, Peñalosa highlighted the role of public spaces, equity, and systems like TransMilenio in shaping inclusive and liveable cities.
The session witnessed active participation from students, faculty, and staff, fostering dialogue on the intersection of urban development, sustainability, and human well-being, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

IITR Hosted International Conference on Vision 2047:

IITR inaugurated the International Conference on “Vision 2047 – Prosperous and Great Bharat 2.0” in collaboration with Swadeshi Shodh Sansthan, bringing together academicians, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss India’s development roadmap.
The event was graced by Shri Kavinder Gupta, Hon’ble Governor of Himachal Pradesh, along with Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IITR; Prof. U.P. Singh, Deputy Director, IITR; Prof. N.P. Padhy, Director, MNIT Jaipur; Prof. Somnath Sachdeva, Executive Chairperson, Swadeshi Shodh Sansthan; Prof. Ajit Chaturvedi, Vice Chancellor, Banaras Hindu University; and Prof. Surekha Dangwal, Vice Chancellor, Doon University. Virtual addresses were delivered by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Minister of Science and Technology and Shri J.P. Nadda, Hon’ble Minister of Health and Family Welfare.
A key highlight was the launch of the National Employment Policy by Prof. Akshay Dvivedi, outlining a roadmap for large-scale employment generation and redefining employment beyond the formal sector.

IITR Hosted Felicitation for Placement Managers:

IITR organised a felicitation ceremony via Placement and Internship Cell (PIC) to recognise the efforts of Placement Managers for the session 2025-26, whose contributions significantly strengthened campus placements. The ceremony was attended by Prof. KK Pant, Director, IITR; Prof. U.P. Singh, Deputy Director, IITR; Prof. R.K. Dutta, Professor-in-charge CDC; Prof. Kaushik Pal, former Professor-in-charge PIC; and was organised under the guidance of Prof. Vivek Pancholi, current Professor-in-charge PIC.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of a memento to Prof. Kaushik Pal in recognition of his dedicated leadership during his tenure with PIC. The ceremony acknowledged the collective efforts that strengthened industry partnerships, improved placement outcomes, and enhanced student preparedness, reflecting IITR’s continued commitment to excellence in placements.

Mr. Rajeev Kumar Singh (B.E. Metallurgy, 1992):

Mr. Rajeev Kumar Singh, Secretary, IITRAA, has been honoured at the prestigious 17th CIDC Vishwakarma Awards 2026 for his contribution to one of India’s significant infrastructure projects. He was recognised under the Best Construction Project category for his role in the Rajasthan Refinery Project, a large-scale initiative valued at approximately Rs. 7,500 Crores. The refinery project, located in Barmer district, is a key national infrastructure undertaking aimed at strengthening India’s energy capacity and industrial development.
The CIDC Vishwakarma Awards, instituted by the Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC), celebrate excellence and innovation in the construction and infrastructure sector, recognising outstanding contributions by organizations and professionals across the country. Mr. Singh’s recognition highlights not only his professional excellence but also the growing impact of IITR alumni in leading and delivering complex, high-value national projects.

Sri Dilip Kumar Singh (B.E. ECE, 1990):

Sri Dilip Kumar Singh has assumed charge as General Manager of West Central Railway on April 9, 2026. A 1990 batch officer of Indian Railway Service of Signal Engineers (IRSSE), he brings over three decades of extensive experience in railway operations, particularly in signalling, telecommunications, and safety systems. Prior to this appointment, he served as Principal Executive Director (Vigilance) at the Railway Board, where he played a key role in strengthening institutional oversight and governance. His elevation to the post of General Manager was approved as part of a broader restructuring and leadership appointment process within Indian Railways. An alumnus of IITR with a B.E. in Electronics and Communication Engineering, Sri Singh’s appointment reflects the continued contribution of the Institute’s graduates to leadership roles in national infrastructure and public service sectors.

MoU Signed Between IITR & NCRTC:

IITR has signed an MoU with National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) to strengthen research, innovation, and capacity building in urban mobility.
The MoU was exchanged in the presence of our esteemed alumnus Sri Shalabh Goel (B.E. Electrical, 1988), Managing Director, NCRTC, and Prof. R.D. Garg, DoRA, IITR along with senior officials and faculty members. The collaboration focused on translational research, scalable transport solutions, technology transfer, and skill development, while also enabling student internships, joint research, and specialized training programmes. The partnership reinforces IITR’s commitment to advancing sustainable and efficient mobility solutions aligned with national priorities.

MoU Signed Between IITR & USAC:

IITR has entered into an MoU with the Uttarakhand Space Application Centre (USAC) to strengthen collaboration in space science and geospatial technologies. The MoU was signed by Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IITR and Prof. Durgesh Pant, Director, USAC in the presence of Prof. Sanjay H. Upadhyay, Head, Centre for Space Science and Technology, IITR and Dr. Priyadarshi Upadhyay, Sr. Scientist, USAC. The partnership aims to foster joint research, academic collaboration, student mentorship, and capacity building across key areas such as climate change, disaster management, and natural resource management. The initiative is expected to promote the application of advanced technologies for addressing regional challenges, while reinforcing IITR’s commitment to driving innovation and contributing to sustainable and socially impactful development.

MoU Signed Between IITR & TELUS:

IITR signed an MoU with TELUS Digital at Institute’s Board Room to advance collaboration in research, innovation, and skill development. The MoU was formalised in the presence of delegates from TELUS Digital, including Mr. Parag Vishnoi, Global Vice President; Mr. Kapil Uniyal, Service Delivery Vice President; Mr. Aleksander R. Uransel, Sr. Executive, Business Development; Ms. Neha Mantoo, Director, Talent Acquisition; and Mr. Naval Gupta, Director, Learning & Development. From IITR, the ceremony was attended by Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IITR; Prof. Vivek Kumar Malik, Dean (SRIC); Prof. R.D. Garg, Dean of Resources and Alumni Affairs (DoRA); Prof. Amit Agarwal, Associate Dean, Corporate Interaction; Prof. Prasenjit Mondal, Head, Department of Chemical Engineering; Prof. Sanjeev Kumar, Mehta Family School of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence; Prof. R.K. Dutta, Professor-in-Charge, Career Development Cell; and Prof. Vivek Pancholi, Professor-in-Charge, Placement and Internship Cell.
The collaboration will focus on Joint Ph.D., funding initiatives, internships, placements, and technology development, along with knowledge exchange, expert interactions, and skill-building programmes. The partnership is expected to enhance industry-academia linkages and foster innovation through technology-driven and human-centric solutions.

R&D and Skill Development Initiative:

DoRA, IITR has further strengthened its industry partnership with KIE Engineering Pvt. Ltd., a leading manufacturer of precision cast and machined components. Established under an MoU signed last year for research and skill development initiatives, the collaboration has continued to grow with sustained support.
Following an initial contribution of Rs. 10 Lakh by Shri Rajeev Khandelwal, Director, KIE Engineering Pvt. Ltd., to promote R&D activities, an additional Rs. 5 Lakh has been extended this year to further support research activities led by Prof. P.K. Jha, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. The support was facilitated through the efforts of Mr. Dinesh Singh Pawar (B.E. Mechanical, 1993), Former Secretary of IITRAA. This continued engagement highlights the strengthening of industry-academia linkages, fostering innovation, practical learning, and impactful research outcomes.

Shyama Mangal Institute Chair Professorship:

An MoU has been signed between DoRA office, IITR and Dr. Purnima Parida for the establishment of “Shyama Mangal Institute Chair Professorship.” The Chair has been instituted in memory of Smt. Shyama Mangal, mother of Dr. Purnima Parida and mother-in-law of Prof. Manoranjan Parida, as a tribute to her legacy. The MoU signing ceremony was held in the presence of Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IITR, and Prof. R.D. Garg, DoRA, IITR.
The donor has contributed Rs. 1.50 Crore to support this initiative. The endowed Chair is expected to promote excellence in teaching and research, enable advanced academic work, and strengthen the Institute’s academic ecosystem.
This initiative reflects the growing contribution of alumni and well-wishers in advancing IITR’s mission of academic excellence and innovation.

Sri Yogesh Sharma (M.Sc. Physics, 1997):

Sri Yogesh Sharma has authored “The Slim Elephant”, offering a strategic take on navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The book introduces the idea of “The Slim Elephant” organizations entities that combine the scale of large enterprises with the agility required to thrive in a dynamic, AI-driven world.
Blending theory with practice, it presents tools like the AI Adoption Index and the McSomb framework (Mamsys Cognitive Synergy Operating Model Binding) to guide organizations in integrating AI effectively and responsibly. The book highlights the enduring importance of human skills, adaptive culture, and ethical leadership in shaping success. It ultimately positions AI as a means to enhance human potential, encouraging leaders to drive innovation with purpose and responsibility.

Dr. Aradhana Jindal (B.Arch., 1989):

Dr. Aradhana Jindal, an alumna of IITR, has authored a coffee table book titled “Umballa to Ambala: A Tale of Twin Cities,” published by Copel Publishing Group. The book offers a rich visual and narrative exploration of Ambala’s transformation from its early identity as “Umballa” to the development of “Ambala City” and the British-established Cantonment.
Blending detailed illustrations with rare archival maps, the work documents the region’s architectural heritage, including temples, colonial structures, reservoirs, and lesser-known historical sites. Drawing on extensive on-ground research and local narratives, it captures stories and cultural nuances often overlooked in conventional records. The book was released at Sirhind Club, Ambala Cantt, in the presence of over 100 eminent personalities and has since received an encouraging response. It is currently available on Amazon.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our esteemed alumni for visiting IITR. It is always a pleasure to warmly welcome you back to your Alma Mater!

• Ms. Rupa Sharma Verhaak, granddaughter of Prof. D.N. Sinha, former Professor of Mechanical Engineering and House Warden (Roorkee University in the 1960s), visited IITR with her family on April 07, 2026, to witness a cherished painting created by her grandfather, reliving a legacy that continues to live on within the Institute.

• Mr. Dinesh Singh Pawar (B.E. Mechanical, 1993), Former Secretary of IITRAA, along with Mr. Vipul Rathi (B.Tech. Civil, 2002) and Prof. Mayur Pal (B.Tech. Civil, 2002), University of Lithuania, visited the DoRA Office on April 08, 2026, and were deeply nostalgic on returning to their Alma Mater.

• Ms. Rati Paliwal, along with Mr. Sumit, visited IIT Roorkee on behalf of Dr. Lav Tandon, son of Late Prof. S.N. Tandon, Department of Chemistry and an alumnus of the UoR (1986), for the signing of an MoU. The agreement establishes two cash awards and one scholarship in memory of Late Prof. Tandon.