A Historic Institution with Global Relevance
Founded in 1847 as Asia’s first engineering college, IIT Roorkee has evolved into a leading centre of excellence in research and innovation. Once known as the University of Roorkee, the institute has consistently ranked among the country’s top institutions and was recently placed sixth in the National Institutional Framework (NIF) rankings. Dr. Singh praised the leadership of Director Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant and Deputy Director Prof. U.P. Singh for steering the institution towards excellence while retaining its societal focus.
With its unique geographical advantage, Dr. Singh urged IIT Roorkee to spearhead research on the Himalayas—ranging from disaster management and climate resilience to what he termed the “aromatic economy” built on Himalayan resources. He stressed that the institute’s expertise could play a crucial role in both disaster response and sustainable economic development.
Championing Startups and Innovation
Highlighting the institute’s nearly 240 startups, the Minister said IIT Roorkee is making a tangible impact on India’s startup ecosystem. India now boasts over 1.7 lakh registered startups, with nearly half coming from smaller towns and cities. “This is democratisation of opportunities, and IIT Roorkee is a role model,” Dr. Singh remarked.
The Biotech-Led Future
Calling biotechnology the cornerstone of the next industrial revolution, Dr. Singh urged IIT Roorkee to invest in emerging domains like regenerative sciences while building on its civil engineering and disaster management strengths. He cited government initiatives such as the Bio-E³ policy and the Purple Revolution in lavender cultivation as prime examples of academia-industry collaboration that can create jobs, boost the economy, and benefit the environment.
Early Industry Linkages and Entrepreneurship
The Minister stressed the need for early industry linkages, encouraging graduates to move beyond traditional job-seeking mindsets and instead become innovators. India’s successes in vaccine development, space exploration, and nuclear energy, he said, reflect the combined strength of government policy, private enterprise, and young talent.
Inspiration for the Graduates
Addressing the graduating batch, Dr. Singh declared, “You are born in the best of times. Your destiny has given you this providential privilege, and I am sure you will make the best of the opportunities that India offers today.” The convocation was also attended by Chairperson of the Board of Governors Dr. B.V.R. Mohan Reddy, faculty members, and students.