AI Generated Summary
- Under his guidance, the institute has emerged as an important contributor to projects that support the Indian Armed Forces and the country’s broader vision of self-reliance in defence.
- It inspires us to continue working towards strengthening the nation’s security and contributing to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence,” he said.
- Ahuja described the honour as a tribute to the collective dedication of the IIT Ropar community.
In recognition of his contributions to strengthening India’s indigenous defence research ecosystem, IIT Ropar Director Prof. Rajeev Ahuja has been awarded the prestigious Chief of Army Staff Commendation by General Upendra Dwivedi. The honour was presented during a formal interaction at the Army Chief’s office on Saturday.
The commendation acknowledges Prof. Ahuja’s leadership in transforming IIT Ropar into a key academic partner for defence research and advanced technology development. Under his guidance, the institute has emerged as an important contributor to projects that support the Indian Armed Forces and the country’s broader vision of self-reliance in defence.
Proud moment for IIT Ropar!
— IIT ROPAR (@iitrpr) June 26, 2026
Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, @iitrpr has been conferred with the Chief of Army Staff Commendation by Gen Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM.
A recognition of IIT Ropar’s mission-driven work in defence research and innovation.
Jai Hind. #IITRopar pic.twitter.com/xQpa1YEFi6
Responding to the recognition, Prof. Ahuja described the honour as a tribute to the collective dedication of the IIT Ropar community.
“I am deeply grateful to the Chief of Army Staff for this recognition. This honour belongs to the entire IIT Ropar team, whose relentless efforts have helped build a robust defence research and innovation ecosystem. It inspires us to continue working towards strengthening the nation’s security and contributing to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence,” he said.
Over the past several years, IIT Ropar has substantially expanded its defence-focused research programmes with support from the Army Technology Board. The institute’s faculty and researchers are currently engaged in developing technologies across several strategic domains, including resilient military infrastructure, autonomous armoured platforms and directed energy systems aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army.
The recognition also reflects the growing synergy between India’s premier technical institutions and the armed forces in developing home-grown technologies for future defence requirements. It underscores the Army’s confidence in IIT Ropar’s research capabilities and its role in advancing next-generation solutions critical to national security
