Himachal: 604 Degrees Awarded During 13th Convocation at IIT Mandi
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi celebrated its 13th convocation on November 14, 2025, at its picturesque North Campus located in the Kamand Valley. This significant event marked another milestone in the institute’s journey as a premier center for technological innovation and interdisciplinary research in India’s Western Himalayas.
Overview of the Convocation Ceremony
This year, a total of 604 students were conferred degrees, which included:
- 71 PhD graduates
- 245 postgraduate students
- 288 BTech graduates
Notably, over 25% of the graduates were female, showcasing IIT Mandi’s commitment to promoting gender diversity in technical education.
Significance of the Event
The convocation served as a platform to highlight IIT Mandi’s growing reputation for academic excellence, impactful research, and innovation-driven learning. The institute has been pivotal in preparing the next generation of entrepreneurs who are equipped to tackle contemporary challenges.
Keynote Address by Chief Guest
The ceremony featured an inspiring address by the chief guest, Professor Shekhar C Mande, the former Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). In his speech, he emphasized the crucial role of innovation in achieving sustainable development. He urged the graduates to lead with empathy and integrity as they face national and global challenges.
Guests of Honor
Alongside Professor Mande, the event was attended by distinguished guests including:
- Jagannath Nayak, Director of the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), DRDO
- Professor Budaraju Srinivasa Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad
The ceremony was chaired by Professor Laxmidhar Behera, the Director of IIT Mandi.
Director’s Address
In his address, Professor Behera congratulated the graduating students and commended their resilience, creativity, and commitment to excellence. He stated, “IIT Mandi continues to nurture a vibrant ecosystem of learning and innovation in the Himalayas.” He highlighted the institute’s establishment as a hub of interdisciplinary research that bridges technological advancements with human values.
Professor Behera also noted that the graduates are not only exceptional engineers and scientists but are also attuned to sustainability challenges through technological innovations that align with local and national priorities.
Future Prospects for Graduates
The graduates of IIT Mandi are poised to make significant contributions across various fields. The skills and knowledge they have acquired during their time at the institute will enable them to address pressing issues in technology, sustainability, and innovation. As they step into the professional world, they are encouraged to leverage their education to create positive impacts in society.
Conclusion
The 13th convocation at IIT Mandi not only celebrated the achievements of its graduates but also reinforced the institute’s commitment to fostering an environment of innovation and excellence. As IIT Mandi continues to grow in stature, it remains dedicated to preparing its students to meet the challenges of the future with integrity and creativity.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the convocation ceremony held at IIT Mandi and highlights the achievements and future prospects of its graduates.

