National Engineers’ Day: Honouring the Legacy of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya

Every year, India celebrates National Engineers’ Day on September 15, a tribute to the remarkable contributions of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, a pioneering civil engineer, statesman, and the Diwan of Mysore. This day not only honours Visvesvaraya’s significant impact on engineering and education but also emphasises the crucial role engineers play in the development of the nation.

A Historical Overview

National Engineers’ Day was established by the Government of India in 1968 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, born on September 15, 1861. This day is not just a national celebration but is also acknowledged in Sri Lanka and Tanzania, recognizing Visvesvaraya’s widespread influence.

In addition to India’s Engineers’ Day, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) celebrates World Engineers’ Day on March 4 each year. This global observance highlights the critical role of engineering in sustainable development and innovation.

Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya: A Legacy of Innovation

Born in Muddenahalli, Karnataka, Visvesvaraya’s early education included a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Madras and Civil Engineering studies at the College of Science in Pune. His illustrious career was marked by numerous awards and achievements:

Bharat Ratna: In 1955, he was awarded India’s highest civilian honour.

Father of Modern Mysore: His engineering prowess significantly shaped the development of Mysore.

Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam: Visvesvaraya designed this dam with one of the largest reservoirs in Asia at the time.

Innovative Irrigation Systems: His patented floodgate irrigation system was installed in various locations, including the Khadakvasla reservoir in Pune and the Tigra Dam in Gwalior.

Administrative Roles: He served as the Chief Engineer of several major projects, including the Laxmi Talav dam and flood protection systems in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam.

Visvesvaraya’s expertise also extended to international projects, such as the Mokama Bridge over the Ganges and the road planning between Tirupati and Tirumala. His impact on education is enduring, with numerous universities and institutions bearing his name.

Contributions to Mysore State

During his tenure as Diwan of Mysore from 1912 to 1919, Visvesvaraya’s contributions were transformative. He played a key role in establishing:

Apex Chamber of Commerce in Karnataka

Bangalore Agricultural University

University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering and Sri Jayachamarajendra Polytechnic in Bangalore

Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Limited in Bhadravathi

Parasitoid Laboratory and Mysore Soap Factory

These institutions continue to honour his vision and commitment to development and education.

Educational Institutions Named in His Honor

Several prestigious institutions bear Visvesvaraya’s name, reflecting his lasting influence in the field of engineering and education:

Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur

Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi

Sir M. Visvesvaraya Institute of Technology, Bangalore

University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering, Bangalore

The Significance of National Engineers’ Day

National Engineers’ Day acknowledges the pivotal role engineers play in shaping technology, infrastructure, and innovation. It provides an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and recognize their often-overlooked contributions to everyday life. Engineers are fundamental to societal progress, from developing advanced technologies to maintaining crucial infrastructure.

This day also serves as an inspiration for young individuals to pursue careers in engineering. By highlighting success stories like Visvesvaraya’s, National Engineers’ Day encourages the next generation to embrace the challenges and opportunities within this field. It’s a call to action for students and professionals alike to continually seek knowledge and innovation.

Celebrations and Reflections

On September 15, 2024, as we celebrate National Engineers’ Day, we honour the legacy of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya and the myriad engineers who drive progress and improve lives. The day includes various activities such as seminars, workshops, conferences, and award ceremonies to recognize outstanding engineers. It is also a moment for engineers to reflect on their profession and its impact on society.

World Engineers’ Day

The World Engineering Day logo features 17 colours representing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, symbolising a global commitment to sustainable infrastructure, energy, and water solutions.

Conclusion

National Engineers’ Day is a reminder of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya’s extraordinary contributions to engineering and nation-building. It celebrates the spirit of innovation and dedication that engineers bring to their work, highlighting their role in shaping the future.

FAQs

When is Engineers’ Day celebrated?

Engineers’ Day is celebrated annually on September 15 in honour of Sir M Visvesvaraya.

What is Engineers’ Day?

Engineers’ Day is a special day dedicated to celebrating engineers’ contributions to society. It honours their hard work, innovation, and creativity across various fields.

How is Engineers’ Day celebrated?

Engineers’ Day is celebrated with a range of activities including seminars, workshops, conferences, and award ceremonies to recognize outstanding engineers. It also serves as a time for engineers to reflect on their profession and its societal impact.