IIT (ISM) Director wins Om Prakash Bhasin Award for engineering
Prof. Sukumar Mishra, the Director of the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, has been awarded the prestigious Om Prakash Bhasin Award 2023 in the field of engineering. This award recognizes his significant contributions to energy systems and aerospace technology.
About the Om Prakash Bhasin Award
The Om Prakash Bhasin Award was established in memory of the renowned industrialist Om Prakash Bhasin. It is conferred annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to science and technology, with a demonstrable impact on national development. The award has previously honored several distinguished scientists and engineers, including:
- A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
- Raja Ramanna
- K. Kasturirangan
- K.L. Chopra
- R.A. Mashelkar
- K.S. Narasimhan
Prof. Sukumar Mishra’s Contributions
Prof. Mishra’s work primarily focuses on enhancing the efficiency and reliability of power systems. His research emphasizes the integration of renewable energy sources and the development of smart grid technologies. These areas are crucial for India’s energy transition and grid modernization efforts.
Key Areas of Research
Some of the key areas of Prof. Mishra’s research include:
- Power Systems
- Renewable Energy Integration
- Smart Grid Technologies
Academic and Professional Background
Before his appointment as the Director of IIT (ISM), Prof. Mishra held several academic and administrative positions at IIT Delhi. His roles included:
- Associate Dean (Research and Development)
- Dean at the IIT Delhi Abu Dhabi campus
Prof. Mishra began his academic career at Sambalpur University and later served at Biju Patnaik University of Technology, where he contributed to the development of engineering education in India.
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout his career, Prof. Mishra has received numerous accolades for his contributions to engineering and technology. Some of his notable awards include:
- INSA Young Scientist Medal
- INAE Young Engineer Award
- NASI-Reliance Platinum Jubilee Award
Additionally, he is a Fellow of several prestigious professional bodies, including:
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
- Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE)
- National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI)
Impact on IIT (ISM)
Officials at IIT (ISM) have stated that Prof. Mishra’s recognition with the Om Prakash Bhasin Award underscores the institute’s growing influence in advanced engineering and energy research. This award not only highlights individual achievement but also reflects the collective efforts of the faculty and students at IIT (ISM) in pushing the boundaries of engineering education and research.
Future Directions
As India continues to transition towards renewable energy sources and modernize its power grid, the work of engineers and researchers like Prof. Mishra becomes increasingly vital. The integration of renewable energy into existing power systems presents both challenges and opportunities, and institutions like IIT (ISM) are at the forefront of this transformation.
Challenges in Energy Transition
Some of the challenges that need to be addressed in the energy sector include:
- Infrastructure Development
- Policy and Regulatory Framework
- Technological Advancements
- Public Awareness and Acceptance
Opportunities for Growth
Despite the challenges, there are numerous opportunities for growth in the energy sector, such as:
- Investment in Renewable Energy Projects
- Development of Smart Grid Technologies
- Collaboration between Academia and Industry
- International Partnerships for Research and Development
Conclusion
Prof. Sukumar Mishra’s receipt of the Om Prakash Bhasin Award is a testament to his dedication and impact in the field of engineering, particularly in energy systems and smart grid technologies. His contributions not only advance academic research but also play a crucial role in shaping India’s energy future.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest available data and reflects the achievements and contributions of Prof. Sukumar Mishra as of March 2026.
