Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee celebrated its 175th Foundation Day on Friday. The event also witnessed the release of a commemorative stamp, coin and a coffee table book with an objective to highlight the antiquity of IIT Roorkee’s illustrious history.

Om Birla, Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha, said, “I congratulate IIT Roorkee as it continues to be in the forefront of the pursuit of research and has contributed to the nation and the region. This institute has unwaveringly aimed at attaining global levels of excellence in education and creating a sustainable and equitable society through innovative research. I am sure IIT Roorkee will continue to serve the nation and build competency and recognition for India as a Vishwa Guru.”

Vineet Pandey, Secretary, Department of Posts, GOI, said, “I congratulate IIT Roorkee on its 175th year as an institution imparting technical education and contribution to the development of the society. It is my honour to release the commemorative stamp in recognition of this significant milestone. I extend my wishes to IIT Roorkee for its continued strive to become a centre of excellence in research and development.”

The Institute began its journey in 1847 as the First Engineering College in the British Empire. It has since progressed rapidly with many pioneering initiatives in engineering education, research and development (R&D), societal impact, and international collaborations.

Another highlight of the 175th foundation day celebration at IIT Roorkee was the Startup Expo 2022, which featured around 130 start-ups supported by the institute’s start-up ecosystem. Around 50 start-ups of these showcased their product/ technology in the domains including robotics, artificial intelligence, healthcare and electric vehicles, among others, to 100+ industries from the Uttarakhand region.

Prof KK Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, said “On the International outreach front, IIT Roorkee has made a mark on the global map. As showcased in the start-up expo being organized as a part of our 175th Foundation Day celebration, the startup ecosystem at the institute is very diverse, and IIT Roorkee is constantly supporting innovative ideas and technologies by providing mentoring and financial support to young entrepreneurs. I wish continued growth and success to all the students, faculty alumni, and staff of this premier institution.”

The institute showcased a picture gallery of large-size oil paintings of the five luminaries who graduated during the pre-1900 era – Lala Deen Dayal (1866 batch), Sir Ganga Ram (1873 batch), Pandit Shiv Narayan Agnihotri (1868 batch), Mirza Mohammed Hadi Ali `Ruswa` (1876 batch) and Raja Jwala Prasad (1900 batch).

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