PM Modi’s Principal Secretary Highlights IIT Dhanbad’s Century-Long Contribution to India’s Development
On December 3, 2025, Dr. P K Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, inaugurated the centenary foundation week of the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad. This significant event underscored the pivotal role that IIT Dhanbad has played in India’s development over the past century.
Celebrating a Century of Excellence
During the inauguration, Dr. Mishra paid tribute to IIT Dhanbad’s rich legacy, emphasizing its pioneering contributions to mining education and its ongoing support to major national institutions such as:
- Coal India
- Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
- Geological Survey of India (GSI)
- Central Mine Planning and Design Institute (CMPDI)
- National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC)
He stated, “This centenary celebrates how sustained dedication to knowledge drives meaningful social impact.” This statement reflects the institute’s commitment to not only academic excellence but also its contributions to the socio-economic landscape of India.
Alignment with National Development Goals
Dr. Mishra highlighted how the achievements of IIT Dhanbad align with India’s broader developmental goals. He pointed out advancements in various sectors, including:
- Digital payments
- Social protection
- Space exploration
- Renewable energy
These advancements are crucial as India aims to position itself as a global leader in technology and innovation by 2047, the centenary of its independence.
The Role of Youth and Innovation
Emphasizing the importance of youth and innovation, Dr. Mishra stated that the younger generation will play a crucial role in driving the nation forward. He noted that the future of India depends on the ability of its youth to innovate and adapt to changing global dynamics.
In this context, he praised various initiatives aimed at enhancing the capabilities of civil services, such as:
- Mission Karmayogi
- iGOT-Karmayogi platform
These initiatives focus on capacity building through collaboration, adaptability, and continuous learning, which are essential for a dynamic workforce.
Future Research Directions
Looking ahead, Dr. Mishra urged IIT Dhanbad to prioritize research in several critical areas, including:
- Climate resilience
- Critical minerals
- Advanced manufacturing
- Public welfare
He emphasized the need for the institute to instill values of humility, teamwork, and ethics among its students. “The next 25 years will determine how knowledge and technology shape a proud, capable, and equitable India,” he added.
Best Wishes for Continued Success
In conclusion, Dr. Mishra extended his best wishes to the faculty, students, and alumni of IIT Dhanbad for their continued success. His remarks serve as a reminder of the institute’s integral role in shaping the future of India through education, research, and innovation.
Conclusion
IIT Dhanbad’s centenary not only marks a significant milestone in its history but also highlights its ongoing commitment to contributing to India’s development. As the nation looks toward the future, the contributions of educational institutions like IIT Dhanbad will be vital in achieving sustainable growth and technological advancement.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the inauguration event held on December 3, 2025, and reflects the views expressed by Dr. P K Mishra regarding IIT Dhanbad’s contributions and future directions.
