IIT Roorkee Inaugurates the 32nd IAHR Symposium, Reinforcing its Pioneering Role in Shaping India’s Hydraulic Machinery and Systems Sector

Roorkee: The 32nd IAHR Symposium on Hydraulic Machinery and Systems was inaugurated with great enthusiasm at IIT Roorkee, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s ongoing commitment to advancing research, industry collaboration, and societal impact. The inaugural session, imbued with tradition and academic excellence, set the stage for what promises to be a transformative event, influencing both national and global landscapes in hydraulic machinery and systems.

The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp by the distinguished dignitaries, symbolizing the commencement of this prestigious event. The inaugural session commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by the immortal Kulgeet ‘Jayati Jayati Vidya Sansthan…’ resonating through the hall. This timeless anthem, penned by the esteemed poet late Shri Sumitranandan Pant at the request of a former Vice Chancellor, embodies the spirit and legacy of IIT Roorkee. It serves as a powerful reminder of the institute’s rich heritage and enduring commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and excellence in education.

Prof. Arun Kumar, Chair of the 32nd IAHR 2024 Organising Committee, in his welcome address, stated, “IIT Roorkee has always stood at the forefront of engineering education and research. Our legacy is built on a foundation of innovation and excellence, and this symposium is a testament to our commitment to addressing the critical challenges in hydraulic machinery and systems. Through this event, we aim to contribute significantly to India’s national priorities and foster sustainable technological advancements through hydro power, pumping systems and pumped storage development to achieve net zero goal.”

Following the welcome address, Prof. M.K. Singhal, Head of the Hydro and Renewable Energy Department, and Prof. Andallib Tariq, Head of the Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Department, stressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving innovations that align with national goals. Their presence and contributions were instrumental in shaping the agenda of the symposium, reflecting IIT Roorkee’s holistic approach to engineering education and research.

Prof. Stefan Riedelbauch, Chairman of the IAHR Hydraulic Machinery and Systems Committee and Professor at the University of Stuttgart, Germany, delivered an insightful overview of the IAHR division of Hydraulic Machinery and Systems Committee and the symposium’s global significance. He emphasized, “The 32nd IAHR Symposium is more than just a gathering of experts; it is a confluence of ideas that will shape the future of hydraulic machinery and systems globally. With IIT Roorkee’s rich legacy of innovation and its leading role in engineering education, the collaboration and knowledge exchange that occurs here are essential for driving innovation and addressing the challenges faced in this field.”

In his Presidential Address, Prof. K.K. Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, articulated a visionary outlook on the role of such symposia in shaping the future of engineering and technology in India. He remarked, “IIT Roorkee’s commitment to excellence is unwavering, and events like the IAHR Symposium are crucial in our journey towards becoming a global leader in engineering and technology. The outcome of research and innovations presented during  this symposium will play a pivotal role in supporting India’s sustainable development goals, enhancing our industrial capabilities, and will contribute  to national initiatives like viksit Bharat 2047,  Atmanirbhar Bharat and the National Mission for Clean Ganga.”

The inaugural session came to the end with the remarks of Prof. B.K. Gandhi, Co-Chair of the 32nd IAHR 2024 Organising Committee, who played a key role in coordinating the event and ensuring its success. He acknowledged the efforts of the organizing team during the Vote of Thanks, where he expressed gratitude to all participants and contributors, highlighting the collective effort that made this event possible.

The session concluded with the National Anthem, a group photograph, and the official opening of the exhibition, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations in hydraulic machinery and systems.

The 32nd IAHR Symposium at IIT Roorkee underscores the institution’s profound impact on academia, industry, and society, showcasing its leadership in advancing engineering excellence and innovation. Through this international collaboration, IIT Roorkee reinforces its role in driving India’s vision of technological self-reliance, aligning with government initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ As the symposium unfolds, it promises to inspire breakthroughs that will benefit industries, foster sustainable development, and further establish IIT Roorkee as a global leader in education, research, and innovation.