Srinagar, May 30: Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, on Saturday extended his greetings as the two-day global alumni reunion SANGAM-3.0 commenced at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, expressing confidence that the initiative would promote innovation, mentorship, collaboration and knowledge-sharing while contributing to the academic and professional growth of the institution and the region.
Organised by the Office of Dean Alumni and International Affairs in collaboration with the Alumni Association of REC-NIT Srinagar, the event aims to strengthen alumni engagement, foster academic and professional collaboration, and reconnect former students with their alma mater.
The inaugural ceremony was held at the Common Hall of the institute and commenced with the National Anthem, lighting of the ceremonial lamp, and formal welcome of alumni, guests, and dignitaries.
On the occasion, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, conveyed his greetings and best wishes to the organisers and participants.
In his message, he lauded NIT Srinagar for fostering a strong alumni network and providing a platform that reconnects generations of graduates.
He expressed confidence that SANGAM-3.0 would strengthen collaboration, innovation, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing, while contributing to the academic and professional growth of the institution and the region.
Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. B K Kanaujia, while addressing the gathering, said that SANGAM-3.0 represents the Institute’s vision of building stronger bridges with its alumni community across the globe.
“Our alumni are the pride and strength of this institution. SANGAM is a celebration of our collective achievements, shared memories and future aspirations. The success stories of our alumni continue to inspire students and contribute immensely towards the growth and reputation of NIT Srinagar at national and international levels,” he said.
Prof Kanaujia said that Institute is actively working towards enhancing research collaborations, innovation ecosystems and industry-academia partnerships with the support and guidance of its alumni network.
Institute Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, said that the alumni meet provides an important platform for meaningful interaction between alumni, faculty members, and students.
“The institute deeply values the emotional connection and continued support of its alumni. Such events help in strengthening institutional identity and creating opportunities for mentorship, networking and collaborative initiatives,” he said.
Dean Alumni and International Affairs, Prof M A Shah, said the overwhelming response to SANGAM-3.0 reflects the strong bond alumni continue to share with the institute despite being spread across different parts of the world.
“We are witnessing participation from alumni belonging to different batches and professions. The event has been designed not only as a reunion but also as a platform to promote innovation, academic collaboration, entrepreneurship, and student mentorship,” he said.
“SANGAM is not just an event but a long-term movement aimed at reconnecting generations of alumni with the institute and encouraging them to contribute towards academic excellence, research, innovation and institutional growth,” Prof. Shah said.
President Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, Er Malay Chatterjee, described the alumni community as the “torch bearers” of the institution and urged graduates to remain connected with their alma mater through academic, professional and philanthropic contributions.
Guest of Honor, MLA Surankote and distinguished alumnus, Er. Chaudhary Muhammad Ikram, MLA Surankote termed the alumni meet a bridge between the government and the alma mater and appreciated the institute for reconnecting generations of alumni through SANGAM-3.0.
Vice President of Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, Er Sayed Parvez Qalandar, while addressing the gathering, stressed the importance of maintaining strong alumni-institute relations and called upon former students to actively contribute towards mentoring and supporting young graduates.
Chairman Bureau of Public Enterprises, J&K Government, Er Talat Parvaz (IAS), also addressed the gathering and highlighted the growing role of technical institutions in shaping future leadership, governance and innovation.
The institute also felicitated silver, golden, and diamond jubilee batches along with ten distinguished alumni for their outstanding contributions in academics, administration, engineering, entrepreneurship and public service.
Earlier Er. Irfan Bashir Ashai, General Secretary of the Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, delivered the Welcome address and warmly welcomed the guests, alumni, faculty members, and participants. He highlighted the importance of staying connected with the alma mater and strengthening the bond among alumni of NIT Srinagar.
A major highlight of the inaugural session was the release of “Bridges & Beacons: A Chronicle of NIT Srinagar,” a publication documenting the Institute’s journey, milestones, achievements and contributions over the decades.
During the programme, the Member-Secretary of the Alumni Association Election Commission presented an exclusive report regarding the elected members of the Alumni Association and highlighted the role of alumni in strengthening the institute’s outreach and development initiatives.
Later, alumni shared their professional experiences and success stories during the “Voices of Experience” session, inspiring students and young graduates with valuable insights from diverse fields.
Associate Dean Alumni and International Affairs Dr H S Pali presented the vote of thanks and appreciated the efforts of organisers, faculty members, volunteers, alumni and participants for making the event successful.
In the afternoon session, alumni participated in the “Alumni Back to Classroom (ABC)” programme, and the overall event was coordinated by Dr Dinesh Kr. Rajendran. The alumni interacted with students in various departments and shared professional experiences, industry insights, and career guidance.
Alumnus also visited the library, workshop, CRF, WRC, laboratories, and research centres of the institute to witness recent academic and infrastructural advancements achieved by NIT Srinagar.
The first day of SANGAM-3.0 concluded with a cultural programme featuring performances by students and alumni at the Common Hall.
