Srinagar, Dec 03, KDC: Padma Shri awardee and distinguished entrepreneur Dr. Milind Pralhad Kamble on Wednesday formally assumed charge as the Chairman of the Board of Governors (BOG) of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, marking the beginning of a new chapter of leadership for the premier engineering institution.
Dr. Milind was accompanied by Cmdr. Kesavan Baskkaran (Retd.), Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of IIM Jammu. They were received at the Srinagar International Airport by Deputy Registrar (Administration, Director’s Office) Faisal Irshad Ganai, and later accorded a warm welcome on the campus.
After taking charge, Dr. Milind chaired an interaction-cum-review meeting with all Deans, Heads of Departments, Heads of Centres, and senior administrative officials. The meeting was attended by Director Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman, and other senior officers.
Director Prof. Kanaujia presented a comprehensive overview of the institute’s functioning, covering academic performance, research initiatives, financial progress, infrastructural development, and future opportunities. Dr. Milind was briefed on the institution’s priorities and ongoing developmental plans.
In his maiden address as Chairman, Dr. Milind lauded NIT Srinagar’s rich legacy and its role in shaping technical education in the region.
“NIT Srinagar has always been a beacon of knowledge and a hub of intellectual vibrancy. As I take on this responsibility, I am fully conscious of the institution’s rich legacy and immense potential,” he said.
Outlining his vision, Dr. Milind announced focused efforts to strengthen the Incubation Centre, enhance placement outcomes, deepen industry–academia collaboration, and improve the institute’s NIRF ranking. He emphasized that research enrichment, better student support, and expanding innovation-driven initiatives would remain key priorities.
“My goal is to take NIT Srinagar to new heights. This can only be achieved through collective effort and a shared commitment to excellence,” he added.
He further noted that the institute would work toward advancing research culture, improving student outcomes, and elevating its national standing through strategic planning and teamwork.
Welcoming the new Chairman, Director Prof. Kanaujia expressed confidence in his visionary leadership.
“We look forward to working under Dr. Milind’s dynamic guidance so that NIT Srinagar achieves new academic and national milestones,” he said.
Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman also extended greetings and reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to supporting the Chairman’s development roadmap.
“NIT Srinagar will continue to be a symbol of innovation, learning, and progress,” he added.
Later, Dr. Milind toured the campus, visiting the Evaluation Centre, New Guest House, Administrative Block, and several other key facilities to review ongoing works and assess future requirements.
Dr. Milind has been a pivotal figure in promoting entrepreneurship, affirmative action, and the representation of SC/ST business leaders in national economic frameworks. He founded the Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DICCI) and was conferred the Padma Shri in 2013 for his remarkable contributions to trade and industry.
In 2019, he assumed charge as Chairperson of the Board of Governors of IIM Jammu, where he led major institutional advancements, including academic expansion, infrastructural upgrades, improved placements, international accreditations, and a strengthened NIRF ranking. He has also served on the Board of IIM Kashipur.
Dr. Milind was a member of the National Curriculum Framework Steering Committee (2021) under NEP 2020 and presently serves as Co-Chair of the CII National Task Force on Affirmative Action.
Since 2016, he has chaired the Advisory Committee of the Ministry of MSME’s National SC/ST Hub, supporting more than 1.45 lakh entrepreneurs and facilitating business execution worth over ₹3,564 crore.
During India’s G20 Presidency (2023), he contributed to global discussions on inclusive growth as part of the B20 India Steering Committee and the International Advocacy Caucus.
His notable recognitions include the Bhim Ratna Award (2010), Marathwada Udyog Bhushan Award (2011), Maharashtra Times Nayak Award (2011), Padma Shri (2013), and Samaj Bhushan Award (2015). (KDC)
