Historical Foundations: Established in 1847, the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) stands as a testament to India's rich engineering heritage. Initially founded as the College of Civil Engineering in British India, its inception was rooted in the need to train officers and surveyors engaged in the construction of the Ganges Canal. This visionary step was taken by Lieutenant-Governor James Thomason, setting the stage for what would become the oldest engineering institution in India.

The Thomason College of Civil Engineering: Following the completion of the Ganges Canal and the passing of James Thomason in 1854, the institution underwent a name change to the Thomason College of Civil Engineering. The renaming, done by Proby Cautley, acknowledged the contributions of the designer and projector of the canal.

Evolution into a University: In 1949, reflecting its growth and expanding academic role, the institution became the University of Roorkee. This transition marked a broader focus on education and research beyond civil engineering. The University of Roorkee became a recognized hub for scientific and technological education.

IIT Roorkee: A New Chapter (2001): In 2001, the institution underwent another transformative change, being renamed the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee. This rebranding was a recognition of its alignment with the prestigious IIT system in India, emphasizing its commitment to excellence in engineering and technology.

Academic Prowess: IIT Roorkee boasts 22 academic departments, covering a comprehensive array of disciplines including Engineering, Applied Sciences, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Management programs. The institution's emphasis on scientific and technological education and research has solidified its standing as a premier technical university in India.

Disciplinary Spectrum: The academic offerings at IIT Roorkee span a wide spectrum, ensuring a holistic approach to education. From traditional engineering disciplines to cutting-edge applied sciences and management programs, the institution provides students with a well-rounded and contemporary education.

Legacy of Innovation and Research: Over the years, IIT Roorkee has carved a niche for itself in the realm of innovation and research. Its faculty and students contribute significantly to advancements in science, technology, and engineering, making a mark on the national and global stage.

Milestone Commemoration: In celebration of the institute's 175th anniversary in 2022, the central government issued a Rs 175 coin, a symbolic gesture commemorating the rich history and enduring legacy of IIT Roorkee.

Academic Offerings: IIT Roorkee offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including Bachelor's Degree courses in 10 disciplines of Engineering and Architecture, and Postgraduate's Degree programs in 55 disciplines covering Engineering, Applied Science, Architecture, and planning. The institute's commitment to doctoral research is evident through its facilities for advanced research work in all departments and research centers.

IIT Roorkee: Global Impact through Education and Collaboration

International Outreach: IIT Roorkee has made significant contributions to the global community, particularly in the fields of science and technology. The institute actively engages with students from over 50 countries, welcoming them for full-time or short-term training courses. This internationalization of education fosters a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

Establishment of WRDM Department: In 1955, the Department of Water Resources Development and Management (WRDM) was established as an Asian African Centre. This initiative was a testament to India's commitment to international collaboration, as evidenced by its participation in the Asian African Conference held in Bandung. The WRDM and the Department of Hydrology play a crucial role in running special postgraduate programs tailored for students from the Afro-Asian region.

Training Programs for Developing Countries: One of IIT Roorkee's notable contributions is in providing training programs for in-service engineers and agricultural scientists from developing countries. These programs aim to enhance expertise in water resources development and management. Over the years, the institute has trained more than 2469 professionals from 48 countries, including India. This underscores IIT Roorkee's commitment to capacity building and knowledge dissemination on a global scale.

Government and UNESCO Sponsorship: The courses offered by the Department of Hydrology are sponsored by both the Government of India and UNESCO. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing knowledge in critical areas, especially related to water resources.

Academic Collaboration with Google: In 2008, IIT Roorkee entered into a strategic collaboration with Google. This partnership focuses on academic collaboration and curriculum development in emerging technologies and the digital landscape. The collaboration, led by Siddhartha Paul Tiwari, represents a forward-looking approach to staying at the forefront of technological advancements.

Research Collaborations: IIT Roorkee has established Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with various research organizations in India, further expanding its collaborative network. Partnerships with institutions such as the Indian Institute of Petroleum, Dehradun; Department of Atomic Engineering (DAE), Mumbai; Intel Technology India Pvt. Ltd.; and Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital, highlight the institute's commitment to interdisciplinary research and innovation.

Campus

1. Main Campus in Roorkee: The primary campus of IIT Roorkee is situated in Roorkee and spans an impressive area of 365 acres (1,480,000 m2). This expansive campus serves as the epicentre of academic activities, research endeavors, and a vibrant student community. It provides a conducive environment for holistic learning and innovation.
2. Student Accommodation: The institute places great emphasis on providing comfortable and conducive living spaces for its students. Most students reside in the hostels, where academic rigor is complemented by a rich tapestry of extracurricular activities. IIT Roorkee's campus is home to 16 hostels, two of which (Sarojini and Kasturba) are exclusively for female students. Additionally, there is a new co-ed hostel named Vigyan Kunj. The hostel system accommodates both undergraduate and graduate students, as well as doctoral students. The allocation of hostels is handled by the school administration after the freshmen year.
3. Special Hostels: For married students, doctoral candidates, and international students, IIT Roorkee provides nine specialized hostels. Each hostel, known as "bhawan," includes a mess facility. The mess administration is overseen by a team consisting of a staff advisor, a chief advisor, and a student mess secretary. These hostels not only provide accommodation but also foster a sense of community and collaboration among students.

 Academic Affiliations

• UGC, AICTE

Specialization

• Computer Science Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Electronics & Communication Engineering
• Engineering Physics
• Chemical Engineering
• Industrial & Production Engineering
• Metallurgical and Materials Engineering
•  Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
•  Biosciences and Bioengineering

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