Our Bureau
Washington DC
The IIT2024 Global Conference, hosted for the second time in Washington DC, concluded on a high note, marking an unprecedented gathering of intellectual prowess and innovative spirit. This year’s conference, organized by PanIIT USA, saw a phenomenal turnout with approximately 1,500 attendees onsite and tens of thousands joining online, exemplifying the global reach and impact of the IIT alumni network.
The conference was honored with a House Resolution recognizing the significant contributions of IIT graduates across every discipline in the United States, reaffirming their role in shaping a better world. A landmark achievement of the conference was the establishment of the prestigious IEEE JC Bose Medal, a testament to the conference’s commitment to excellence in technology and innovation. This year’s event witnessed an unprecedented number of IITs (13) and IIT delegates (29), showcasing the diversity and importance of faculty and campus Directors in IIT network.
Marking a significant milestone, the conference saw PanIIT’s partnership with FICCI for the first time and a FICCI delegation from India to establish a long-term partnership between FICCI and PanIIT USA. The conference also launched the Wheels Global Foundation Impact Innovation Challenge, fostering a culture of innovation and problem-solving for upliftment of rural India.
Over 30 keynotes and panels, featuring 80 speakers, provided insights across various domains, facilitated by the dedicated efforts of 112 volunteers. Sold-out pre-conference events, including those hosted by Fairfax and Arlington EDA, a Congressional Reception, and a gathering hosted by the Indian Ambassador to the USA at the Indian Embassy in Washington DC, underscored the conference’s wide-reaching influence.
NDTV 24×7, The Indian Eye Newsweekly and Radio Zindagi Network were the official media partners – ensuring the conference’s highlights reached a global audience, including the US, India, and beyond. The Young Researcher’s Forum and Young Innovator’s program inspired high school students with a passion for STEM, sowing seeds for future innovations.
The MoU between PanIIT USA and FIRST Global establishes a partnership for STEM and robotics advancement in the USA and India through collaboration, mentorship, volunteerism, and fundraising, cultivating future innovators. This joint effort will enhance STEM education, provide coaching for young innovators, recruit volunteers, and raise funds to support STEM and robotics initiatives.
A Joint Work Plan was signed between the Department of Telecommunications, the Government of India, and PanIIT USA. This strategic alliance will harness the expertise of IIT alumni for India’s digital telecom growth and promote India as a key player in the global telecom arena. This collaboration will mentor startups, boost digital projects, attract FDI, and address evolving mutual interests to bolster the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This plan is adaptable and goal-oriented, underscoring its commitment to India’s telecom advancement.
On January 1oth, 2024 Mr. Raja Krishnamoorthy submitted the H. Res. 956 resolution in the US House of Representatives recognizing the significant contributions of Indian-American communities and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) graduates to American society. It highlights the deep cultural and technological ties between the United States and India, and urges Americans to acknowledge and appreciate the role of Indian-Americans and IIT alumni in advancing and enriching the US across various sectors. In addition, flags were flown over United States Capitol to commemorate IIT2024 Global Alumni conference.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
The IIT2024 Global Conference not only celebrated the past achievements of the IIT alumni but also set the stage for future collaborations and innovations. As an example, under climate control and clean energy initiative between US and India, US Department of Energy exhibited a Hydrogen car and hosted a panel discussion on the subject. The conference’s success is a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating the power of collective intelligence and the spirit of innovation in addressing global challenges.
Conference Co-Chair Atul Mathur said, “I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors, participants, speakers, volunteers, and partners who made this event a landmark in the annals of technological and societal advancement.”
Congratulations to all the Volunteers for their tremendous behind the scene efforts for such a successful Conference!
– Soami Saran