KIIT-DU Marks a Significant Milestone with Participation in the National Workshop on Microgravity Research
Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Deemed to be University, achieved another significant milestone through its active participation in the One-day National Workshop on “Microgravity Research involving Academia, Research Institutes and Indian Industry” held on 15th July 2026 at ISRO Headquarters, Bengaluru. The university was represented by Dr. S.K.S. Parashar (Principal Investigator iMex-2026, ISRO) Professor, School of Applied Sciences, KIIT Deemed to be University.
The workshop was organized with the objective of fostering a coordinated Indian Microgravity Research Ecosystem by bringing together leading academicians, scientists, industry experts, start-ups, funding agencies, and government stakeholders. It provided a unique platform to discuss recent advancements in microgravity research under India’s Human Space Programme, explore emerging scientific and technological opportunities, and formulate strategies to strengthen the nation’s capabilities in microgravity research and its applications.
KIIT-DU has consistently promoted excellence in science, research, innovation, and technology for the betterment of society. The university’s participation in this prestigious national event reflects its commitment to contributing to frontier research areas. The initiation of research activities in microgravity science is expected to create new opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and significantly benefit the university, the state of Odisha, and the nation.
Dr. S.K.S. Parashar had the privilege of interacting with several distinguished scientists and leaders from India’s space and research community. He met Shri Dinesh Kumar Singh, Director, Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC), ISRO; Dr. Darukesha BHM, Associate Director, Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC), ISRO; Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO; Shri M. Ganesh Pillai, Scientific Secretary, ISRO; Shri M. Sankaran, Director, U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), ISRO; Padma Shri Dr. A. S. Kiran Kumar, Former Chairman, ISRO; Dr. Sanjay Behari, Director, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST); Dr. B.H.M. Darukesha, Senior Space Scientist, ISRO; Mr. Tushar Phadnis, HSFC, ISRO; Dr. Sandip Ghosh Chowdhury, Director, CSIR–National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR-NML); Dr. D. K. Singh, Scientist & Director (HSFC), ISRO; Dr.V. Raghavendra, Scientist, ISRO and Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla .
Dr. S.K.S. Parashar express his gratitude to Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder, KIIT & KISS; Prof. Saranjit Singh, Vice-Chancellor, KIIT DU; and Prof. Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Registrar, KIIT DU for providing him the opportunity to participate in this prestigious national workshop. The participation of KIIT-DU in this landmark event further reinforces the university’s vision of becoming a leader in advanced scientific research and innovation. The knowledge gained through this workshop is expected to strengthen future collaborations with ISRO and other national research organizations, paving the way for impactful research in microgravity science and space technology.