Laxmidhar Behera, Director, IIT Mandi, and Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co Founder, Infosys, highlight research growth, global collaboration and innovation focus
Mumbai, March 31, 2026: IIT Mandi marked its 17th Foundation Day with a focus on research, innovation, and emerging technologies, bringing together leaders from academia, industry, and global research institutions.
The institute highlighted its growing role in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum technology, and interdisciplinary engineering, aligned with India’s long term development vision.
Over the past three years, IIT Mandi has undertaken research projects exceeding Rs 120 crore, with continued emphasis on strengthening its research ecosystem. The institute also announced plans to invest an additional Rs 700 crore towards infrastructure expansion.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co Founder of Infosys, who was the Chief Guest, and Oussama Khatib, Director of Stanford Robotics Lab, as the Distinguished Guest. Other attendees included Timothy Gonsalves, Founding Director of IIT Mandi, Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi, Vice Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University, and Vinay Kumar Pathak, Vice Chancellor of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University.
Laxmidhar Behera, Director, IIT Mandi, said, “As IIT Mandi celebrates its 17th Foundation Day, it is a moment to reflect not only on the Institute’s evolution but also on the essence of Shodasha representing creativity and growth. IIT Mandi has emerged as a hub for experiential learning and research in areas such as quantum technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductor systems, and interdisciplinary engineering. Through a focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, we are preparing future ready leaders who will contribute to technological self reliance and national development.”
Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co Founder, Infosys, said, “We are at the edge of an intelligence driven transformation, and the coming decades present a strong opportunity for India to lead in innovation and technology. Institutions like IIT Mandi will play a central role in nurturing talent, advancing research, and supporting entrepreneurship. The institute has the potential to contribute to global solutions as India moves forward in its development journey.”
Oussama Khatib, Director, Stanford Robotics Lab, said, “IIT Mandi combines academic excellence with a unique environment that can support innovation. Its focus on research and real world applications positions it as a strong contributor in areas such as robotics and advanced engineering.”
The institute also recognised faculty and students for their contributions across academics, research, and sports during the event.
IIT Mandi reported several key milestones, including research funding of Rs 120 crore across 177 projects, over 200 consultancy assignments, and the development of interdisciplinary research centres and global partnerships. The institute continues to support innovation and entrepreneurship through incubation programmes and fellowships.
Located in Himachal Pradesh, IIT Mandi has developed into a research focused institution with growing national and international collaborations, contributing to India’s progress in science, technology, and higher education.
At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.
Comments