IIT ecosystem carried India’s knowledge traditions into modern science: Om Birla
New Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said the IIT ecosystem had carried India’s ancient knowledge traditions into the modern world of science and technology, while releasing the book “IIT – The Story of India’s Most Prestigious Educational Ecosystem” at IIT Delhi.
Birla described the book as a reflection of modern India’s confidence, knowledge and nation-building journey. He said the movement that began with IIT Kharagpur had expanded into a network of 23 IITs whose alumni now hold leadership positions across the world.
He said the transformation of the Hijli Detention Camp into IIT Kharagpur symbolised India’s journey from struggle to creation and from colonial rule to a self-reliant nation. According to him, the achievements of IIT graduates across sectors reflected the country’s broader development story.
Birla noted that IITs had built a culture of excellence, innovation and global leadership. He said faculty members and alumni had contributed significantly to industry, information technology, research, digital transformation and space exploration.
IIT ecosystem driving innovation and national growth
Referring to examples highlighted in the book, Birla said the dedication shown by young engineers involved in the Bhakra Project remained an inspiration for national service and commitment.
He also stated that India was witnessing a shift from “brain drain” to “brain gain”, which reflected the nation’s growing confidence and expanding opportunities. Moreover, he said India was emerging as a global leader in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum technology, space technology and green energy.
Birla said the Government of India was continuously promoting research, innovation and advanced manufacturing through various initiatives. Furthermore, he urged young professionals to balance personal success with responsibility towards society and the nation.
He emphasised that individuals who choose challenges over comfort create history and contribute meaningfully to national progress. Therefore, he called for collective participation from educational institutions, scientists, entrepreneurs, industries and youth in building a developed India.
Birla expressed confidence that the next generation of IITians would strengthen India’s position on the global stage by connecting science with service, innovation with national interest and success with social responsibility.
IIT Delhi में Pan IIT Alumni India द्वारा आयोजित कार्यक्रम को संबोधित किया।
भारत की समृद्ध ज्ञान परंपरा और आधुनिक विज्ञान के संगम को सशक्त बनाने में IITs की भूमिका अत्यंत महत्वपूर्ण रही है। इन संस्थानों ने न केवल उत्कृष्ट वैज्ञानिक, Engineers, Entrepreneurs और शोधकर्ता तैयार किए… pic.twitter.com/aS8wZNyjeQ— Om Birla (@ombirlakota) June 20, 2026
