300 IIT-M alumni contribute to research fund

IIT-M alumni of the 1993 batch, which is having its Silver Reunion this year, 1983 have pledged to raise Rs 12 crore on the occasion of Reunion Day, hosted by IIT-M, to support the campus infrastructure, Research and Development and student innovations. Further, the 1983 batch also pledged another Rs 2 crore. Over 300 alumni from across batches took part in the reunion.

Addressing the Reunion Day celebrations, Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT-M, said, “A lot of important research, research that has to be done, falls within gaps of existing funding sources and researchers find it difficult to raise funds. The CSR funding from industries provides scope for these kind of research projects. Faculty can do research and produce technology that will have a huge impact. CSR funding can help scale up these projects, particular those with social impact, to support pilot scale deployments.”

Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi also announced the 12 Distinguished Alumnus Awardees for 2019. The Awards are broadly given in following categories – academics, industrial, research, business/entrepreneurship leadership and general category.

Various competitions and projects of the Centre for Innovation, IIT-M, were demonstrated during the occasion. The students interacted with alumni who have been vital in encouraging innovations and helping them attend global competitions.

Speaking on ‘Broad Avenues to engage with IIT-M,’ Prof Mahesh Panchagnula, Dean (International and Alumni Relations), said, “IIT-M Alumni is about 48,000 strong and the Alumni Relations Office is connected to around 35,000 of them. Alumni have engaged with students and faculty over the years. We welcome all of you to partner with our faculty research groups which are addressing industry problems.”

He said, “Nearly 60 faculty members have set up start-ups through the IIT-M Incubation Cell. Many efforts undertaken by IIT-M requires a lot of resources. Alumni contribution with their resources has been immensely helpful. Many of our research laboratories and sports facilities have funding from the government and alumni as well. We have a Development Office that liaises with corporate firms aswell as the alumni.”