Recognised for outstanding innovation, employment generation, entrepreneurship initiatives
Munish Sood
MANDI: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Mandi has added yet another feather to its cap by winning two prestigious honours at the FICCI Higher Education Excellence Awards 2025 — ‘University of the Year (Established)’ and ‘Excellence in Creating Employment & Entrepreneurship’.
The awards were presented by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, at a ceremony organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) in New Delhi.
These recognitions celebrate IIT-Mandi’s exceptional contribution in promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and employability through a dynamic ecosystem that seamlessly integrates academic research, industry collaboration and community-driven impact.
At the heart of this success is IIT-Mandi Catalyst, India’s first technology business incubator in the Himalayas, which has supported over 400 startups, generating significant employment opportunities and fostering technology-led entrepreneurship across India.
Expressing his gratitude, Prof Laxmidhar Behera, Director, IIT-Mandi, said, “This recognition is a proud moment for the entire IIT-Mandi community. It underscores our institution’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship that fuels the nation’s growth. I dedicate this achievement to our faculty, students and staff whose dedication and creativity make IIT-Mandi a truly transformative institution.”
With a strong focus on research translation, innovation-driven curriculum and strategic industry partnerships, IIT-Mandi continues to shape professionals and innovators who are building sustainable solutions aligned with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
By fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving, the institute stands at the forefront of addressing the complex challenges of the future — from sustainability and technology to social inclusion and economic development.
Through its cutting-edge research, startup incubation programs and global collaborations, IIT-Mandi is redefining higher education in India, empowering students to emerge as leaders, entrepreneurs and change-makers in their fields.
About IIT-Mandi
Located in the scenic Kamand Valley of Himachal Pradesh, IIT-Mandi is among India’s second-generation Indian Institutes of Technology, established by the Union Ministry of Human Resource Development. Recognised as an Institute of National Importance, it became the first among the newer IITs to fully shift its BTech program to the permanent campus in 2015.
The institute has been actively engaged in over 275 research and development projects worth ₹120 crore and has signed 23 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with leading national and international universities.
With its twin campuses spread across the serene banks of Uhl river, IIT-Mandi is not only a centre of academic excellence but also a hub of innovation, sustainability and inclusive growth, driving a new vision for education in the Indian Himalayas.
