IITH Director Dr. B.S. Murthy Inspires the Students

On December 3, 2025, Dr. B.S. Murthy, the Director of the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH), delivered an inspiring talk at GITAM Deemed to be University, Hyderabad. This event was part of the commemoration of the 167th birth anniversary of Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose, a legendary scientist known for his pioneering work in modern plant science.

Celebrating the Legacy of J.C. Bose

During his address, Dr. Murthy emphasized the multifaceted genius of J.C. Bose, whose innovations transcended biology and ventured into engineering domains such as microwaves and early telecommunications. He urged students to find inspiration in the lives of such visionaries, highlighting that true innovation knows no disciplinary boundaries. “When we remember J.C. Bose, we must learn that there are no barriers if you aspire to be an innovator,” he stated.

India’s Vision for Development

Dr. Murthy also reflected on India’s developmental aspirations, particularly the national vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) and Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India), as articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stressed that India’s journey to becoming a developed nation hinges on strengthening its technology and product ecosystem.

He acknowledged the remarkable progress India has made in basic research, missile technology, and atomic energy, often excelling despite technology denial. However, he pointed out the necessity for similar momentum across all sectors to reduce imports and enhance self-reliance.

IIT Hyderabad’s Academic Philosophy

Sharing insights into IIT Hyderabad’s academic philosophy, Dr. Murthy explained the institute’s flexible and innovation-driven curriculum. IITH follows a unique six-module semester structure that offers micro-credit courses, allowing first-year students to explore diverse domains. He introduced the Engineering Science program, which has no fixed curriculum, enabling students to design their own academic pathways across disciplines.

Supporting Innovation at IITH

To foster innovation, Dr. Murthy highlighted the IITH Technology Innovation Park (TIP), which is accessible to students from any institution in India. Through TIP, students can receive mentorship, funding, research support, and accommodation by reaching out to the Director’s office. He also mentioned IITH’s 560 advanced research facilities available under the Open to All Technologies (OAT) initiative, along with 20 online courses offered to learners of all ages.

Encouraging Ambition and Collaboration

Quoting the maxim “You are what you think you are,” Dr. Murthy encouraged students to dream big and pursue ambitious goals. He emphasized that resources follow bold aspirations and that interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial for impactful innovation. He introduced BHARATI—Bold Hearted Aspirants Rising to Transform India—a new IITH initiative aimed at nurturing innovation among first-year B.Tech students. Additionally, he announced plans for an Inter-IIT Undergraduate Innovation Meet.

Dr. Murthy expressed that IITH aims to create an ecosystem that identifies and supports young “builders of India” through funding, mentorship, and innovation spaces.

Recognition and Participation

Earlier in the program, Dr. Murthy was felicitated by Prof. D.S. Rao, Pro Vice-Chancellor of GITAM Hyderabad, along with Dr. Srivari Chandrasekhar and Prof. B.V.R. Tata, distinguished professors at GITAM. They presented Dr. Murthy with a shawl and a memento in recognition of his contributions.

The event was coordinated by Dr. G. Niharika, Faculty of Life Sciences, under the supervision of Dr. M. Reza, Principal of the School of Science. Students from various institutions, including Loyola Academy, Sai Sudhir Degree College, and St. Anthony Degree College, participated in the guest lecture, showcasing a collective enthusiasm for innovation and learning.

Conclusion

Dr. B.S. Murthy’s address at GITAM University was not just a tribute to J.C. Bose but also a clarion call for the youth to embrace innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. His insights into India’s vision for development and the supportive ecosystem at IITH serve as an inspiration for aspiring innovators across the nation.

Note: The information presented in this article is based on the events and speeches delivered during the commemorative event at GITAM University.