IIT-Mandi hosts project demonstration open house to inspire young innovators

 53 projects developed by second-year BTech students exhibited; top 3 awarded ₹2.5 lakh each

MANDI: The Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi, recently hosted an open house to exhibit the prototypes and models developed by second-year BTech students as part of the ‘IC201: Design Practicum’ course.

The event aimed to provide a platform for young innovators to showcase their projects and entrepreneurial spirit. The ‘Design Practicum’ course at IIT-Mandi is curated to nurture entrepreneurship by providing students with hands-on experience in solving real-world problems. Under the guidance of faculty mentors, students develop prototypes and models addressing real-world challenges.

The projects were collaboratively developed by teams comprising students from various engineering disciplines, ensuring a diverse and multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving. Each group received Rs 30,000 in funding to facilitate the manufacturing of their prototypes, with guidance and expertise provided by faculty mentors specializing in their respective domains.

Commenting on the event, Dr Atul Dhar, Chairperson, School of School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, IIT-Mandi, said, “The Design Practicum is the stepping stone of the E3 Culture: Engineering and Economics leading to Entrepreneurship. It shows the institute’s commitment towards developing future entrepreneurs. For sure, the 30 patent files in this year’s Design Practicum will lead to excellent entrepreneurial opportunities for the young innovators.”

Aligned with the guidelines of the National Education Policy 2020, IIT-Mandi’s curriculum is strategically designed to empower students to graduate as entrepreneurs. This journey commences in the second year with the “Design Practicum” course, where students initiate their projects.

In the third year, these projects can be further developed through the “Young Innovator Fellowship,” offering course credits and additional funding of up to Rs 15,000 per month for project or start-up development. Finally, in the fourth year, students can continue their entrepreneurial endeavours through their “Major Technical Project,” culminating in their graduation as entrepreneurs.