CSIR-IMMT Celebrates Foundation Day with Enthusiasm and Scientific Vision
By Tapaswini Sahoo
Bhubaneswar/Odisha, Apr 14 : The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR-IMMT), Bhubaneswar successfully celebrated its Foundation Day on 13th April 2026 with great enthusiasm and active participation from its present and former staff and students and guests from other laboratories.
Established originally as the Regional Research Laboratory on 13th April 1964, CSIR-IMMT continues to stand as a premier research institute in the field of minerals, metals, and materials technology.
The main function was held in the institute auditorium and commenced with a welcome address by the Director, Dr. Ramanuj Narayan. In his address, Dr. Narayan presented a comprehensive overview of the institute’s activities and achievements during the last financial year. He highlighted the establishment of new facilities and emphasized emerging R&D focus areas, particularly in decarbonization and critical minerals.
Appreciating the dedicated efforts of scientists and staff members, he encouraged them to extend the impact of their research beyond academic publications and laboratory boundaries. In a poetic note, he urged the scientific community to transform knowledge into national progress, contributing meaningfully towards the vision of Viksit Bharat. He also spoke about the ongoing collaborations between NALCO and CSIR-IMMT and expressed his gratitude to the Chief Guest for graciously accepting the invitation.
The Foundation Day Lecture was delivered by the Chief Guest, Shri Jagdish Arora, Director (Projects and Technical), NALCO. In his address, Shri Arora highlighted key challenges faced by the aluminium industry, including the limited availability of indigenous smelter technology and the effective utilization of industrial wastes such as red mud and fly ash. He encouraged young researchers to actively engage in reverse mentoring, adopt advanced tools such as automation and AI/ML, and focus on translating laboratory research into field-level applications for industrial use.
Dr. Trupti Das, Head of Human Resource Development (HRD) Dept, presented an overview of HRD activities carried out during the year where starting from human resource from school level to professionals are getting benefitted through JIGYASA, Skill development, Internship and AcSIR PhD programs. On this occasion, the Hindi magazine “Abhibyakti” was formally released.
A technology developed by team lead by Dr. SK Singh and Mr. Debidutta Debasish “Zirconium Diboride –Silicon Carbide ultra-high temperature ceramic (UHTC) from Zircon sand” was transferred to M/S Regenius Technologies, Bhubaneswar
The winners of the MGK Menon Tournament and SSBMT Indoor Tournament 2025 were felicitated for their achievements. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. L.D. Besra, Scientist G and Head of the MCIE Department, followed by the National Anthem.
In the evening, a vibrant cultural program featuring an Odia drama performed by staff members added a creative and engaging dimension to the celebrations.
The event reflected the institute’s commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and its role in contributing to national development.
