'Inframet Bharat’ conference concludes at National Institute of Technology Srinagar with focus on sustainable Innovation

SRINAGAR: The two-day national conference “Inframet Bharat – Engineering the Atma Nirbhar Future” concluded at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Tuesday, with leading experts, academicians, and researchers calling for sustainable, innovation-driven approaches in civil, metallurgical, and materials engineering to strengthen India’s self-reliant vision.

Jointly organized by the Department of Civil Engineering and the Department of Metallurgical & Materials Engineering, the conference brought together participants from premier institutions and industries across the country to deliberate on the role of engineering innovation in building a resilient future.

The conference was held under the patronage of Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, Director NIT Srinagar, and Prof. Atikur Rehman, Registrar NIT Srinagar, with Prof. Javed Bhat, Head, Department of Civil Engineering, and Dr. Srinibash Mishra, Head, Department of Metallurgical & Materials Engineering, serving as Patrons. Dr. Vivek and Dr. Nitika Kundan were the Conference Chairpersons, while Dr. Anshul Gupta and Dr. Janani L served as Organizing Secretaries.

The second day featured three keynote sessions by distinguished speakers from academia and industry. Dr. Anupam B. R., Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, NIT Surathkal, delivered a lecture on “Thermodynamics of Pavements: Numerical Insights into High-Conductive Asphalt.” He emphasized how thermodynamic modeling can enhance the performance and longevity of pavements under extreme conditions.

In the second keynote address, Dr. Nemu Chand Reger, Assistant Professor, NIT Trichy, spoke on “Advanced Melting Techniques for Biomaterials for Structural Implant Manufacturing.” He highlighted how advancements in materials processing are revolutionizing both biomedical and structural applications.

The third keynote speaker, Dr. Sunil Kumar Jatav, Deputy Manager at Welspun Corps Ltd., Anjar, presented on “Recent Trends and Innovations in Pipe Manufacturing Technology.” He discussed new approaches in smart manufacturing, process automation, and sustainable industrial practices that minimize environmental impact.

In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, commended the organizing team and said that the conference theme aligns with the national mission of Atmanirbhar Bharat. “The vision of self-reliance in engineering and materials development is vital to India’s progress,” he added.

Following the keynote lectures, the conference continued with technical sessions under two themes Civil Engineering and Metallurgical & Materials Engineering. Participants including Sara Hilal, Mehak Bashir, Raja Mohammad Safwan, and Dr. Premlata presented their research papers on innovative materials, structural design, and advanced processing techniques, drawing keen engagement from the audience.

The valedictory session marked the conclusion of the two-day event. Certificates and mementos were distributed, and the best paper awards were presented to the top participants. Dean (Planning & Development) Dr. Yashwant Mehta served as the judge for the best paper presentations, evaluated the participants for originality, technical merit, and presentation quality.

Members of the “Dhaatu-Mitra” students’ club of the Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Department actively assisted in the smooth conduct of the sessions and received appreciation for their contribution.

A formal vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Anshul Gupta, Organizing Secretary. He expressed gratitude to the Director, Registrar, Deans, Heads of Departments, keynote speakers, participants, and the entire organizing team for their efforts.

“The conference provided an excellent platform for academic exchange, collaboration, and innovation between academia and industry. The research shared here will contribute towards sustainable and self-reliant engineering solutions,” Dr. Anshul said.