IIT Madras Director Advocates for Indigenous Technology Adoption
In a significant push for technological self-reliance, IIT Madras director V Kamakoti has called upon major industries across India to incorporate the indigenous Shakti microprocessor into their products. Speaking at the ‘Super Chennai Arattai’ event on Monday, Kamakoti stressed the importance of fostering homegrown innovations to drive national progress.
Emphasis on Self-Reliance and Startup Success
Kamakoti highlighted the critical need for industries to embrace domestic designs, stating, "We must grow our own technology and encourage our own designs. If we don't respect our own technology, our country will remain the same." He pointed to the remarkable achievements of startups like Agnikul Cosmos, which developed a 3D-printed rocket in just 72 hours, as examples of groundbreaking innovation that surpasses traditional industry expectations.
To further support such entrepreneurial ventures, IIT Madras has implemented a new policy allowing startups to participate in campus placements from Day 1 this year. This initiative has already yielded positive results, with Agnikul Cosmos offering 10 positions at an annual package of 18 lakh rupees. Kamakoti remarked, "This money is enough for young students, and they can be part of an exciting journey."
Focus on Education and Global Appeal
Kamakoti also advised students to maintain focus on their core subjects from a foundational level for deeper understanding, cautioning against distractions. He noted a declining trend in the desire to study abroad, citing that IIT Madras has received hundreds of applications from foreign countries for faculty positions. He explained, "We want people from abroad to come here and study. We have certain USPs such as our way of education, pedagogy, approach to science, and way of life."
In recognition of his contributions to academia and technology, Kamakoti was honored with the Super Chennai Icon of the Month award during the event. This accolade underscores his leadership in promoting indigenous technological advancements and educational excellence at IIT Madras.
