Professor at the Department of Physics
Dear Esteemed Alumni, Cherished Students, and Valued Stakeholders of IIT Kharagpur.
Warm greetings from the Office of Dean Outreach(OR), IIT Kharagpur!
It is with great pride and heartfelt gratitude that I connect with you through this newsletter, which stands as a reflection of our shared journey of excellence, innovation, and collaboration at IIT Kharagpur—the first IIT in the world.
Our alumni have always been the pillars of strength for the Institute, leaving indelible marks across diverse fields around the globe. Your accomplishments continue to inspire us, and your ongoing engagement with the alma mater fuels our drive for growth and transformation. Your stories are a testament to the life-changing power of an IIT education and the strong foundation it provides to face the challenges of tomorrow.
Since its inception in 2003, the Office of Alumni Affairs (OAA) as outreach activity has expanded its scope to include alumni engagement, networking, fundraising, institutional branding, and alumni recognition. These efforts are carried out in alignment with Institute policies and Government of India guidelines, upholding our status as an Institute of Excellence in academic and research domains.
Key Milestones and Engagement Initiatives
We are proud to share that over 76.5% of our alumni are now connected through our digital platforms, alumni meets, chapter visits, reunions, and social media presence: Facebook – IIT Kharagpur, Twitter – https://x.com/IITKgp, Instagram – @iit.kgp, LinkedIn – Indian Institute of Technology, News portal: https://kgpchronicle.iitkgp.ac.in
Through the Institutional Development (ID) Program, numerous alumni-led initiatives have been implemented to build a sustainable financial future for the Institute. These include: Hall and Batch Endowments, Learn-Earn-Return Program, Student Scholarships and Awards, Chair Professorships and Guru Dakshina, Alumni Department Engagement, Annual Donations and CSR Collaborations, “Own Your Hall Room” Campaign.
Recognizing Our Distinguished Alumni
Institutes Alumni Office takes immense pride in honouring alumni through prestigious awards such as: Distinguished Alumnus Award, Young Alumni Achievers Award, Distinguished Service Award.
These awards recognize exemplary achievements and unwavering service to the Institute. In collaboration with the Institute, we also support the conferment of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Life Fellow Award, and Honoris Causa distinctions.
Alumni Events and Global Engagement
As Outreach activities, Institutes Alumni Office hosts major alumni events such as the Annual Alumni Meet, Homecoming, Grand Reunion, and Alvida, fostering lifelong bonds between alumni, students, faculty, and other stakeholders. We proudly collaborate with two major foundations: IITKGP Foundation USA, IITKGP Alumni Foundation India. These foundations work with a global network of alumni chapters across India and countries including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, UAE, and more. These connections facilitate networking, mentorship, fundraising, infrastructure development, and support for innovation and entrepreneurship. One of our hallmark programs, the Semester Away Program (SAP), provides financial assistance to students, thanks to generous alumni contributions.
A Shared Vision for Growth
Institute through its Dean OR and Dean AA actively encourages alumni to stay involved through mentorship, research partnerships, philanthropic initiatives, and student support programs. These efforts create a winwin ecosystem—benefiting both our alumni and the current generation of students, faculty, and staff.
Let us continue to uphold our shared values of innovation, excellence, and service to society and the nation. Your unwavering support is the cornerstone of our progress, and we look forward to creating new milestones together.
Let’s keep the IITKGP spirit alive and thriving!
Development of Secured Hardware and Automotive Systems
This IIT Kharagpur-led project, under the National Mission on Cyber Physical Systems and in collaboration with C3iHub, focuses on Hardware Security Forensics and Automotive Security. Spearheaded by Profs. Debdeep Mukhopadhyay and Soumyajit Dey, it has established cutting-edge facilities like an X-Ray Microscope for detecting counterfeit electronics using AI. The project earned global recognition, including a Best Demonstration Award at IEEE PAINE. In automotive security, it uncovered software vulnerabilities and developed secure design tools. A key achievement includes identifying flaws in ARM TrustZones (CVE-2022-47549). Research outputs have been published in leading journals and conferences, gaining praise from industry leaders.
Development of Secured Hardware and Automotive Systems
Precision agriculture addresses global food and environmental challenges by making farming smarter and more data-driven. It enables precise application of inputs like water and fertilizers, boosting yields, cutting waste, and lowering emissions. Technologies such as AI/ML, GPS, sensors, and drones enhance its effectiveness, though challenges remain in data authenticity and reliability. At IIT Kharagpur’s Agricultural and Food Engineering Department, the Centre of Excellence in Precision Agriculture (CoE-PA) advances sustainable farming through innovation and capacity building. Led by expert faculty, it focuses on digital agriculture, automation, and circular economy, aiming to improve efficiency, income, nutrition, and reduce post-harvest losses.
Open and Intelligent Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Technologies for Smart Indian Cities
Funded by the Government of India and Tata Motors under the Uchchatar Avishkar Yojana, this project aimed to develop key subsystems for an indigenous Hybrid Electric Vehicle. IIT Kharagpur, with support from Tata Motors and IIEST Shibpur, developed technologies including an air-cooled battery pack, water-cooled motor, onboard charger, vehicle control algorithms, fault diagnostics, and ADAS. The initiative has significantly contributed to India’s EV ecosystem by generating advanced technologies, IP, skilled R&D manpower, and essential infrastructure for sustainable mobility.
Inauguration of Zen Lounge: A Step Towards Student Wellness
IIT Kharagpur inaugurated the Zen Lounge, a yoga and meditation space in SNIG Girls Hostel, to promote mindfulness and mental wellbeing. Supported by alumna Ms. Viji Narayanan, this first-of-its-kind initiative among IITs emphasizes holistic student wellness. Prof. Rintu Banerjee underscored its role in managing academic stress. The Zen Lounge embodies the institute’s commitment to inclusivity, wellness, and holistic development.
Training Programme for STEM Teachers of PM SHRI JNVs of the Patna region
IIT Kharagpur’s Department of Education held a STEM training program for PM SHRI JNV teachers (Patna region) from Jan 15–19, 2025, covering emerging topics like AI, AR/VR, and mental health in education. Led by faculty and coordinated by Prof. Mohanty and Saxena, it emphasized experiential learning and received positive feedback.
IIT Kharagpur Celebrates Matri Bhasha Divas 2025
IIT Kharagpur celebrates Matri Bhasha Divas on February 21, 2025 at the Prof. S. N. Bose Auditorium, honoring the richness of mother tongues that shape identities and connect communities. Prof. Baldev Bhai Sharma, Vice Chancellor of Kushabhau Thakre University, delivered an address on the "Importance of Mother Language on the Lines of NEP 2020 in Higher Education." This celebration embraces India’s linguistic diversity and the cultural treasures within every language.
Inauguration of VATIKA: India’s First Biophilic Studio at IIT Kharagpur
IIT Kharagpur achieved a milestone in sustainable innovation with the inauguration of VATIKA: The Biophilic Studio at its Research Park. Graced by Director Prof. Amit Patra, Deputy Director Prof. Rintu Banerjee, and Prof. Khanindra Pathak, this pioneering initiative integrates biophilic design into academic ecosystems. The event featured a Prakriti Jagaran Yatra, led by Shri Sourabh J. Sarkar, setting a reflective tone for discussions on sustainability and innovation.
YIP 2025
IIT Kharagpur's Young Innovators Program (YIP) held from January 10–12, 2025, is a premier platform for school students to showcase innovative solutions to real-world challenges. The event fosters creativity, interdisciplinary learning, and sustainable development through mentorship, workshops, and access to advanced facilities. This transformative experience empowers young minds to drive impactful change, continuing IIT Kharagpur's legacy of inspiring future innovators.
IIT Kharagpur Inaugurates Gender Cell for Inclusivity
On February 21, 2025, IIT Kharagpur inaugurated its Gender Cell to promote a safe, inclusive, and equitable campus. Launched by senior leadership, the initiative aligns with NEP 2020 and the Saksham Report, focusing on gender sensitization, policy advocacy, and equality.
INSTITUTE LECTURES
Institute Lecture on Amyloid-Metal Supramolecular Hybrids by Prof. Raffaele Mezzenga held at IIT Kharagpur hosted by The School of Nano Science and Technology on February 12, 2025, at the S.N. Bose Auditorium.
On March 26, 2025, IIT Kharagpur hosted an Institute Lecture by Prof. Alan Fryar at the S.N. Bose Auditorium, exploring environmental impacts on springs.
On February 15, 2025, IIT Kharagpur’s Technology Students' Gymkhana hosted “An Evening with a Wandering Monk,” featuring Shri Paramahamsa Prajnanananda at the Kalidas Auditorium.
From March 10–13, 2025, the Cryogenic Engineering Centre at IIT Kharagpur hosted the SGRIP Lecture Series by Prof. Christopher Bell at the Gargi Seminar Room, Vikramshila.
On March 5, 2025, Prof. Tom Gleeson delivered a lecture on groundwater sustainability at the Geology & Geophysics Seminar Room, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and academic excellence.
MoU
On March 18, 2025, IIT Kharagpur and the University of Auckland signed an MoU in New Delhi to launch a Joint Doctoral Program, witnessed by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
VISITS
A delegation from TU Darmstadt, Germany visited IIT Kharagpur to foster academic collaboration and strengthen research ties.
A delegation from Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University, the First Higher Technical University in Russia visited IIT Kharagpur
Shaurya 2025
Shaurya 2024-2025, IIT Kharagpur's vibrant sports fest, ignited fierce competition and camaraderie. Drawing over 15 colleges and engaging 10,000+ students, the event showcased diverse athletic prowess. From traditional sports to thrilling e-sports and fun events, Shaurya fostered a dynamic spirit of sportsmanship and youthful energy.
Kshitij 2025
The 22nd edition of Kshitij, Asia’s largest techno-management festival, took place from January 17-19, 2025, at IIT Kharagpur. The festival brought together students, professionals and industry leaders, featuring intense competitions, insightful lectures, hands-on workshops and futuristic exhibitions. Various competitions like Robowars, Sand Rover, Droid Blitz, BPlan, Quant Quest tested participants' skills in robotics, AI, finance and engineering.
Spring Fest 2025
Spring Fest 2025 at IIT Kharagpur was nothing short of extraordinary! Over three unforgettable days from January 24-26, 2025 IIT KGP witnessed electrifying performances, intense competitions, and a celebration of talent and culture at its finest. Now, relive the magic as we unveil the complete highlights of this year’s edition. From the grand opening to the spectacular finale, experience the energy that made Spring Fest 2025 truly remarkable!
Celebration of the International Women’s Day 2025
IIT Kharagpur celebrated International Women’s Day on 8th March 2025 at Netaji Auditorium, honoring the achievements and contributions of women across diverse fields. The event featured inspiring talks by Sukla Mistry (Former Director, Indian Oil Corporation Limited) and Moumita Dutta (Head, Hyperspectral Optics Division, SAC, ISRO). Panel discussions and cultural performances highlighted gender equality and empowerment, reaffirming the institute's commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
Holi Celebration 2025
The Students’ International Relations Cell at IIT Kharagpur hosted a Holi celebration on March 13, 2025, at the SATHI Building rooftop, fostering cultural exchange and unity among international students.
Hult Prize 2025
The Students’ International Relations Cell hosted the Hult Prize OnCampus Round 2025 on February 15, 2025. The Hult Prize, a global entrepreneurship competition affiliated with Hult Business School, UAE, offers a $1 million seed funding prize.
Women in Sports
Technology Students’ Gymkhana hosted Women in Sports Week in early February to empower and inspire female athletes through events like Kho-Kho, football, and cricket, promoting sportsmanship and leadership among women.
Dear KGPians,
It is an honor to address you in the third issue of our newly launched newsletter. The start of this year has been truly exciting and eventful, marked by the successful conduction of our flagship events—Shaurya, Kshitij, and Spring Fest—each bringing together thousands of participants from across the country. Additionally, our students delivered phenomenal performances across all three domains in the InterIIT Meets held in December, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every KGPian for their dedication and hard work.
We also had the privilege of welcoming back the batches of 1975, 1985, and 2000. Interacting with them was incredibly inspiring, as their experiences and deep connection with the institute reminded us of the enduring legacy of IIT Kharagpur.
As part of our continued efforts to bridge the gap between our alumni and the student community, we are excited to launch Alumni Connect, a dedicated app designed to strengthen ties between students and our esteemed alumni network. This initiative will facilitate better mentorship, career guidance, and networking opportunities, enriching the KGP community.
I extend my sincere gratitude to our alumni for their unwavering support and humbly invite them to join us in our pursuit of excellence. Together, let’s keep the KGP spirit alive!
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
from the Department of Mechanical Engineering awarded as the 2026 TWAS Award in Engineering and Computer Sciences by UNESCO.
from the Department of Geology & Geophysics elected as an American Geophysical Union’s (AGU) Fellow.
from the Department of Chemistry elected as a Vice-President of the Council of the Indian Academy of Sciences for the triennium 2025–2027.
from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering selected as Fellow of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
from the Department of Rubber Technology awarded the prestigious 2025 SPARKS THOMAS AWARD by the Rubber Division of the American Chemical Society.
from the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering reappointed as the Director of IIM Mumbai and received the David F. Baker Distinguished Research Award.
from the Department of Civil Engineering reappointed as the Director of BITS Pilani.
from the Department of Mathematics appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University.
Distinguished alumnus of IITKGP, conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri award in the field of Social Welfare
an Alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, appointed as the new Chairperson of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur - 721302 (W.B)
Email : newsletter@iitkgp.ac.in; Contact Number : 03222 282112 / 282036