IIT Kanpur’s 1965 batch pledges Rs 2.5 crore to set up Research and Innovation Award

This new addition of the ‘Pioneering Research & Innovation Award’ would honor individuals whose contributions have significantly impacted academia, industry, and society, at large, it added.

This annual award seeks to recognize faculty and students whose work demonstrates originality, creative excellence, and tangible impact on industry and society. Instituted as a lasting legacy of the Pioneer Batch, the award aims to inspire future generations to push the boundaries of knowledge and technological advancement.

Speaking on the initiative, Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, said, “The pioneering batch of IIT Kanpur, the class of 1965, have made significant contributions to various initiatives at the Institute and continue giving back. The ‘Pioneering Research & Innovation Award’ is built on the Institute’s founding legacy and would inspire generations of researchers, scholars, and innovators. On behalf of the Institute, I extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to the Class of 1965.”

This initiative builds upon the batch’s strong long-standing tradition of supporting IIT Kanpur, with notable past contributions including the establishment of the Pioneer Batch Continuing Education Center (PBCEC) (in 2000) and two endowments for the Opportunity School (2010, 2015), which support education for underprivileged children around the campus.

Mr. Abhay Bhushan, alumni batch coordinator, said, “IIT Kanpur has played a defining role in our lives, and this award is our way of giving back to the institute that shaped us. IIT Kanpur and its alumni are known for their pathbreaking research and innovation. We hope this award will contribute to that legacy of innovation and inspire faculty and students to push boundaries in making a lasting impact.”

The statement further added that the Diamond Jubilee Reunion of the Class of 1965 is a nostalgic occasion, marked by reflections and a shared vision for the institute’s future. With the establishment of the ‘Pioneering Research & Innovation Award,’ IIT Kanpur continues to strengthen its research ecosystem and expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the batch for their invaluable contribution and dedication to the institute.