ROPAR, 25.02.26-Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar) celebrated its 18th Foundation Day on Tuesday, unveiling a host of new academic, technological and entrepreneurial initiatives aimed at strengthening India's research and innovation ecosystem. The event, held at the institute auditorium under the overarching theme 'Accelerating R&D, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship in the Country,' was graced by Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon'ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, as the Chief Guest, who delivered an inspiring keynote address. Hon'ble Governor said, “Institutions like IIT Ropar are the engines of a self reliant India. The quality of research, the spirit of entrepreneurship, and the dedication of the faculty and students here are a testament to what Indian higher education can achieve."

The welcome address was delivered by Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar who said, “"From a young institution founded on the banks of the Sutlej in 2008, IIT Ropar has grown into a research intensive university of national consequence. Today, our faculty and students are publishing high impact research, filing patents and building startups that solve real problems for real people. Our ambition is to be among India's most consequential institutions in research, innovation and entrepreneurship, and to ensure that the fruits of our work reach society, industry and the nation at large."

RDIF Investment Commitments: IIT Ropar announced formal investment commitments from partners towards its Research and Development and Innovation Fund (RDIF), signaling growing confidence from the private sector in the institute's research capabilities and commercialization potential.

In recent years, IIT Ropar has expanded into future-facing domains to address national and global priorities. The Institute hosts ANNAM AI, a Centre of Excellence driving artificial intelligence research for sustainable development, and the Technology Innovation Hub AWaDH, focused on integrating AI into agritech and water technologies. Further demonstrating its commitment to national service, IIT Ropar has partnered with the Indian Army to launch an M.Tech in Defence Technology, equipping defence professionals with specialised technical expertise and promoting joint innovation in defence systems. These initiatives reflect IIT Ropar’s vision of cultivating future innovators who excel academically and contribute meaningfully to technology, society, and India’s strategic priorities.