Education
NIT Durgapur Induction Programme 2026: Eminent Dignitaries Inspire New Students
The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Durgapur organised its Induction Programme 2026 for newly admitted first-year UG, PG and PhD students, bringing together eminent personalities from academia, administration, industry and public life to inspire and guide the young entrants as they embarked on their academic journey.
The multi-day programme, held at the New Auditorium, commenced on August 20 with National Induction 7.0 by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji. The programme continued with an elaborate inaugural session on August 22, followed by motivational talks, institutional presentations and interactive programmes designed to familiarise students with the academic, professional and co-curricular ecosystem of the Institute.
The inaugural session on August 22 witnessed the presence of Prof. Arun Mohan Sherry, Director, IIM Shillong, as the Guest of Honour and Dr Pranav Kumar, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Asansol Durgapur Police Commissionerate, as the Chief Guest. The session began with the institute documentary, ceremonial lighting of the lamp, the National Song and National Anthem, followed by Saraswati and Ganesh Vandana and felicitation of the dignitaries. Prof. Arvind Choubey, Director, NIT Durgapur, delivered the welcome address and formally welcomed the newly admitted students to the Institute.
Addressing the students, Prof. Arun Mohan Sherry emphasised the importance of developing a broad perspective and making the most of the opportunities available during their years at the Institute. He also delivered the first motivational talk of the programme, providing students with perspectives on personal and professional growth.
The inaugural session was followed by an address by Dr Pranav Kumar, IPS, whose presence brought an important dimension of public service, responsibility and leadership to the induction programme. His interaction with the students was aimed at encouraging them to approach their education not merely as a means of professional advancement but also as an opportunity to develop a sense of responsibility towards society.
The programme featured another distinguished academician, Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT-ISM Dhanbad, who delivered a motivational talk on August 22. His participation further underscored the programme's emphasis on academic excellence, innovation and leadership. The day also included presentations by various clubs and societies of NIT Durgapur, giving students an opportunity to understand and engage with the Institute's vibrant co-curricular activities.
The second day of the programme, August 23, focused on student welfare, well-being and professional development. Presentations were made by the Dean Students' Welfare, Chief Wardens, NSS, Medical Unit and Wellness Centre. Dr Saranya Banerjee, an eminent psychologist, delivered a motivational talk, while Mr Sunil Kumar addressed the students in another motivational session. The day's programme also included a campaign for Nasha-Mukt Bharat, besides presentations by various clubs and societies.
A major highlight came on August 24 with the motivational address by Padmashree Mr Anand Kumar of Super 30 fame. His participation added considerable inspiration to the induction programme, particularly for students beginning their higher-education journey at one of the country's premier technical institutions. The day also featured a special session on the Indian Knowledge System by Dr Anand Pandey, reflecting the Institute's effort to combine contemporary technical education with India's intellectual and cultural traditions.
The programme also provided students with comprehensive information about the Institute. Presentations covered the functions of the Deans, Heads of Departments and Centres, Central Library and Computer Centre, enabling the newcomers to become familiar with the academic, research, administrative and support structures of NIT Durgapur. The programme culminated in visits to the various departments and laboratories, providing the newly admitted students with first-hand exposure to the Institute's academic and research infrastructure.
With the participation of distinguished figures such as Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji, Prof. Arun Mohan Sherry, Dr Pranav Kumar, Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Dr Saranya Banerjee, Mr Sunil Kumar and Padmashree Anand Kumar, the NIT Durgapur Induction Programme 2026 sought to give its newest members more than an institutional orientation. It created a platform where academic excellence, leadership, mental well-being, social responsibility, professional aspirations and Indian knowledge traditions could converge, setting the tone for a meaningful and transformative educational experience at the Institute.