With innovation and technology driving global change, Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) of IIT Kanpur hosted the annual conference Abhivyakti' 24. Being organised along with the IIT Kanpur annual festival Techkriti, the 3-day programme beginning from March 14 showcased an inspiring fusion of minds and ideas working on a sustainable and technologically advanced future.
The opening day began on a high note with a warm welcome and the lighting of the lamp by notable figures including Divisional Commissioner Kanpur Amit Gupta, Ravi Ranjan, Special Secretary, Department of IT & Electronics, Government of Uttar Pradesh, alongside distinguished academicians and senior officials from IIT Kanpur.
A poignant tribute to the late Prof. Sameer Khandekar set a reflective tone, honouring the legacy of those who have significantly contributed to the academic and scientific community. This was followed by the unveiling of the MountTech Growth Fund's “Kavachh Investment Scheme”, symbolising the commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.
The exhibition titled “The Pulse of Innovation – Demo of Tomorrow's Disruptors” offered a glimpse into the future, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations poised to redefine industries. This segment underscored the event's focus on fostering an ecosystem where ideas are not just born but are brought to life, ready to tackle global challenges.
The discussions throughout the event spanned a variety of critical themes. The “Public Policy for Sustainable Future” session brought together government officials and experts to deliberate on the intersection of policy and technology in driving sustainability. Meanwhile, the “Pathways to a Net Zero Future” panel discussion emphasised the essential role of startups and industries in achieving a sustainable, net-zero world.
A highlight of the event was the launch of the UAV/UAS Accelerator Program under the Center of Excellence for Capacity Building, Training, and Design of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. This initiative not only showcases the institution's commitment to advancing in the field of aerospace but also emphasises the importance of training and capacity building in fostering innovation.
The second day continued the momentum with discussions ranging from “Success Stories – Lab to Commercialisation” to “Translational Research: The Role of FEP,” highlighting the journey from innovative ideas to real-world applications. The launch of startup challenges by Gliders India Limited and discussions on healthcare technologies reinforced the event's broad scope, encompassing various sectors and industries.
The “Battle of Ideas: Aerospace and Defence” session, featuring prominent figures such as former defence secretary Dr. Ajay Kumar reflected the strategic importance of aerospace and defence technologies in national security and technological advancement.
The event concluded with a valedictory ceremony, celebrating the successes and looking ahead to the future of innovation and technology. The networking engagements that followed offered attendees the chance to connect, share ideas, and forge partnerships that could shape the future of technology and innovation.
Abhivyakti' 24 supported by Tech Observer Magazine as the media partner, served as a platform for inspiration, collaboration, and innovation. The participants not only highlighted the critical role of technology and innovation in addressing global challenges but also showcased the power of collaboration between academia, industry, and government in driving forward a sustainable and technologically advanced future.
