Kanpur, November 19, 2024: The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) inaugurated the yearlong celebration of ‘Jan Jatiya Gaurav Varsh’ on its campus, commemorating the contributions of tribal communities to India’s freedom struggle and honoring Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

The inaugural event, organized by the Registrar’s Office in collaboration with the Office of the Dean of Students’ Affairs, brought together faculty, students, officers, and staff. The celebration, which spans from November 15, 2024, to November 15, 2025, began with a tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a revered tribal leader and freedom fighter, on his 150th birth anniversary.

The event was inaugurated by Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director, IIT Kanpur; Prof. Pratik Sen, Dean of Students’ Affairs; and Shri Vishwa Ranjan, Registrar, IIT Kanpur. The ceremony commenced with floral tributes to Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s portrait by the dignitaries, alongside the President of the Students’ Gymkhana and the President of the Karmchari Sangathan.

Shri Prakalpa Sharma, Deputy Registrar (Legal), highlighted the Government of India’s mandate to celebrate Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s 150th anniversary as ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’. He elaborated on the revolutionary movements led by tribal communities in India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule, emphasizing the significance of their legacy.

The event set the stage for a series of yearlong activities aimed at celebrating tribal heritage, promoting awareness, and nurturing inclusivity within the campus community.

About IIT Kanpur:

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, holds the distinction of being recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has made significant contributions to research and development over the decades. Its expansive, lush green campus spans 1,050 acres and hosts a rich array of academic and research resources. The institute comprises 19 departments, 26 centers, three interdisciplinary programs, and two specialized schools across engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines. With over 590 full-time faculty members and more than 9,500 students, IIT Kanpur continues to be a leader in fostering innovation and academic rigor.

For more information, visit www.iitk.ac.in.