IIT Kharagpur Marks Historic Milestone with the Unveiling of Commemorative Postage Stamp; Announces Strategic Discussions on Proposed Outreach Initiative in Houston

Sriniketan, West Bengal | November 24, 2025 As part of its Platinum Jubilee celebrations, the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur commemorated a landmark chapter in its history with the unveiling of a special postage stamp by India Post. Held at the culturally significant Rangabitan Tourism Property, Sriniketan, the event highlighted IIT Kharagpur’s 75 years of academic excellence, innovation, and service to the nation.

The commemorative event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including:

Hon’ble Shri Sukanta Majumdar, Union Minister of State for Education, Government of India (virtually)
Ms. Kathy Giles-Diaz, Consul General, U.S. Consulate General Kolkata
Mr. T.V. Narendran, Chairman, Board of Governors, IIT Kharagpur
Prof. Suman Chakraborty, Director, IIT Kharagpur
Shri Ashok Kumar, IPoS Chief Post Master General, West Bengal.
Dr. Asoke Deysarkar, President, IIT Kharagpur Foundation, USA.
and Senior officials from India Post and IIT Kharagpur.

Celebrating 75 Years of Vision, Excellence & Global Leadership

As IIT Kharagpur celebrates its 75th glorious year, the Institute reflects on a journey that began at the historic Hijli Detention Camp, transforming over the decades into a world-renowned centre of learning, research, and innovation. Recognised as the “IIT of Firsts,” IIT Kharagpur has consistently pioneered academic excellence, interdisciplinary learning, and societal impact.

The special postage stamp released today stands as a national recognition of IIT Kharagpur’s legacy as India’s first IIT and a pioneer in transformative education and research. In adherence to the India Post protocol, the release was conducted simultaneously across 1,64,987 post offices nationwide, symbolising the Institute’s deep connection with citizens across the country.

Postage stamps are more than functional artefacts—they are carriers of national memory, honouring institutions, people, and milestones that have shaped India. This special stamp immortalises IIT Kharagpur’s remarkable contributions to education, technology, research, and nation-building.

Exploring a Strategic Outreach Initiative in Houston

During the event, IIT Kharagpur also initiated discussions on the potential and scope of a proposed strategic outreach initiative in Houston, USA. Enabled by the support of Dr. Asoke Deysarkar and the IITKGP Foundation USA, the discussions will focus on:

• Opportunities for enhanced academic and research collaborations
• Pathways to strengthen innovation and entrepreneurial engagement
• Frameworks for cultural, scientific, and knowledge exchange
• Building long-term industry and alumni partnerships
• Developing a strategic roadmap for global outreach

Why Sriniketan as the Venue?

Sriniketan—situated in the cultural heartland envisioned by Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore—embodies India’s heritage of knowledge, creativity, and community-driven development. The decision to host this event here reflects:

• IIT Kharagpur’s deep-rooted connection with India’s cultural and intellectual traditions
• The symbolic alignment between Tagore’s philosophy of holistic education and the Institute’s pioneering academic ecosystem
• A tribute to Bengal’s enduring contributions to India’s scientific and educational landscape

Quote from Prof. Suman Chakraborty, Director, IIT Kharagpur
“Unveiling this commemorative stamp is a proud moment for our entire community. It reflects our journey, our aspirations, and India’s trust in IIT Kharagpur’s vision for the future.”

“Today’s discussions on the Houston initiative mark the beginning of a strategic exploration to expand our global engagement. We are grateful to Dr Asoke Deysarkar and our alumni for their continued leadership and support.”

Quote by Hon’ble Shri Sukanta Majumdar, Union Minister of State for Education, Government of India “IIT Kharagpur’s Platinum Jubilee represents 75 years of nation-building. The commemorative stamp honours this legacy. The Institute’s efforts to explore global partnerships, including the proposed initiative in Houston, further demonstrate its commitment to academic leadership and innovation.”

Quote from Ms. Kathy Giles-Diaz, Consul General, U.S. Consulate General Kolkata quote – ‘IIT-Kharagpur’s plan to establish an Outreach Center in Houston is an important initiative. This Center strengthens America’s and India’s partnership in science, technology, and innovation at a moment of intensifying global competition’

About IIT Kharagpur Established in 1951 as India’s first Indian Institute of Technology, IIT Kharagpur has pioneered transformative education, cutting-edge research, and global leadership for over seven decades. With its expansive campus, interdisciplinary academic ecosystem, and a legacy built on innovation and excellence, IIT Kharagpur continues to shape leaders and visionaries worldwide.