NIT Jamshedpur has once again stepped up to the plate, hosting the second edition of its Industry-Academia Conclave (IAC-2024) from November 15 to 17. This year’s event, dedicated to the late Padma Vibhushan Ratan Tata, resonated with the theme “Vikshit Bharat – Vikshit Jharkhand,” spotlighting the integral role of innovation, sustainability, and self-reliance as cornerstones for India’s development by 2047. The conclave isn’t just another academic gathering; it’s a clarion call for collaboration that could reshape the landscape of both academia and industry in the region.
The event culminated in the signing of three significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with IIT Jodhpur, RVSCET Jamshedpur, and Ramgarh College, signaling a robust commitment to enhancing research collaborations. Such partnerships are vital for driving forward the vision of a developed India and can serve as a blueprint for other institutions looking to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
One of the standout moments of IAC-2024 was the panel discussion centered on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental Accountability in Mining Operations. The heavyweights of the industry, including Amitanjan Nandi from Damodar Valley Corporation and P.B. Sinha from FEURST Inc., France, tackled the pressing challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. They underscored the necessity for technological innovations and climate-conscious regulations, emphasizing that the future of mining in Jharkhand—and beyond—depends on inclusive policies that consider both profit and planet.
The conclave didn’t stop at discussions; it also sparked creativity through the Circuit Design & Simulation Hackathon, co-organized with VLSI System Design from Bangalore. This event was a nod to Tata’s vision of empowerment through technology, urging participants to leverage open-source tools to develop circuit designs. The competition was fierce, but Sangesh S from Patiala emerged victorious, showcasing the potential of young minds in driving technological advancements.
The closing ceremony was a testament to the conclave’s success, with Prof. Goutam Sutradhar delivering a comprehensive report that highlighted the participation of 72 delegates from 28 premier institutes and 46 industry representatives. The buzz was palpable, with 43 stalls showcasing cutting-edge innovations and five impactful panel discussions covering industry trends like Industry 4.0, Renewable Energy Integration, and Digital Twin Technology.
As the dust settles on IAC-2024, one thing is clear: NIT Jamshedpur is not just a participant but a pivotal player in the ongoing dialogue about India’s future. The conclave has set the stage for a sustainable and innovative future, aligning with the vision of “Vikshit Bharat – Vikshit Jharkhand.” It’s a bold step forward, one that encourages both academia and industry to think outside the box and work hand-in-hand for a brighter tomorrow. With such initiatives, the mining sector, in particular, may find itself at a crossroads, where environmental accountability becomes as crucial as economic viability, potentially redefining industry standards in the years to come.
