IInvenTiv 2026 at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad concluded on a high note, showcasing a vibrant confluence of innovation, research, industry collaboration and policy dialogue, aligned with the national vision of Bharat Innovates. The concluding day brought together thought leaders, academicians, policymakers, startups and industry representatives, reinforcing India’s growing strength as a global innovation hub.
A major highlight of the day was the engaging and interactive session by Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, who emphasized the need to build a robust innovation and startup ecosystem. Stressing Bharat’s diversity as a unique advantage, he noted that solutions developed in India have the potential to serve global needs. He highlighted indigenous vaccine development as a reflection of India’s scientific capability and self-reliance, and called for a shift from basic research to translational and transformational outcomes that directly improve quality of life. Sharing IIT Madras’ model, he elaborated on its strong ecosystem of research, intellectual property generation and startup incubation, encouraging students to embrace interdisciplinary learning and entrepreneurship.
This was followed by an insightful address by Dr. Sunil Kumar Barnwal, CEO, National Health Authority, on “Building the Blueprint for a Digital Health Nation.” He underlined that while emerging technologies hold immense promise, their large-scale adoption depends on overcoming behavioural barriers, legacy systems and capacity constraints. Highlighting the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, he spoke about its core pillars—ABHA-based digital identity, seamless data exchange and a unified health interface—aimed at ensuring secure, interoperable and patient-centric healthcare. Emphasizing trust, privacy and consent, he compared the transformative potential of digital health infrastructure to that of UPI, and encouraged students and startups to build solutions in AI-driven diagnostics, care coordination and health financing.
Both sessions witnessed enthusiastic participation and rich interaction, with students, faculty and industry representatives engaging in meaningful discussions on innovation, entrepreneurship and nation-building.
Beyond the keynote sessions, the day featured a visit by dignitaries to the underground mines of Munidih (BCCL), offering first-hand exposure to mining operations. The programme also included theme-wise academia-to-business (A2B) matchmaking and pitching sessions, fostering deeper collaboration between researchers and industry. Participants further explored advanced facilities such as the 3D Underground & Surface Mine Metaverse, Underground Long-wall Mine, Geological Museum and Seismological Observatory.
The event culminated in a valedictory session marked by reflections on the outcomes and future directions of India’s innovation ecosystem. Prof. Parthasarathi Das, Dean (R&D) and Convenor of IInvenTiv 2026, in his welcome address, highlighted the institute’s evolving R&D ecosystem integrating academia, industry, investors and startups. Emphasizing teamwork, mentorship and stakeholder collaboration, he urged participants to translate ideas into impactful outcomes that benefit society and strengthen research leadership.
Prof. Ejaz Ahmad, Organising Secretary, noted the participation of over 1000 delegates and presentation of around 190 innovations, underscoring strong industry-academia engagement. He highlighted peer-reviewed innovations, funding support for startups and the establishment of new centres of excellence, while emphasizing the role of AI as an enabler and the need for sustained investment in deep-tech innovation.
Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director, presented the “3C–3I–3M” framework—connect, collaborate, cooperate; innovate, integrate, industrialize; supported by mentoring, marketing and money—highlighting MoUs, startup funding and the event’s benchmark-setting execution.
Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, reflected on the successful collaboration among five IITs, noting that collective efforts have translated into meaningful innovation outcomes. Marking the institute’s centenary year, he described IInvenTiv 2026 as a milestone showcasing institutional capability and future potential, while appreciating the active engagement of venture capitalists and startups.
Prof. A. K. Mishra, Director, CSIR-CIMFR, termed the event a historic congregation of IIT leaders and innovators. He highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary research and national missions such as energy security, urging purpose-driven and sustainable innovation aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat.
IInvenTiv 2026 thus successfully demonstrated IIT (ISM) Dhanbad’s role as a hub of cutting-edge research, innovation and collaboration, reaffirming its commitment to advancing India’s journey towards a self-reliant and technologically empowered future.