National Engineers’ Day: Honouring the Legacy of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya
On September 15, India celebrates National Engineers’ Day, a special occasion dedicated to recognizing the significant contributions of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. An esteemed civil engineer, statesman, and the Diwan of Mysore, Visvesvaraya’s legacy continues to inspire and shape the field of engineering.
A Historical Perspective
Established by the Government of India in 1968, National Engineers’ Day commemorates the birth of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, who was born on September 15, 1861. This observance not only honours his impact on engineering but also extends to countries like Sri Lanka and Tanzania, reflecting his global influence.
In addition to this national celebration, UNESCO recognizes World Engineers’ Day on March 4. This global event highlights the crucial role of engineering in advancing sustainable development and innovation.
The Legacy of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya
Visvesvaraya, born in Muddenahalli, Karnataka, pursued his education with distinction, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Madras and studying Civil Engineering at the College of Science in Pune. His career was marked by several notable achievements:
Bharat Ratna: In 1955, he was awarded India’s highest civilian honour for his remarkable contributions.
Father of Modern Mysore: His engineering expertise was instrumental in shaping the development of Mysore.
Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam: Visvesvaraya designed this dam, which featured one of Asia’s largest reservoirs at the time.
Innovative Irrigation Systems: He patented a floodgate irrigation system, revolutionising water management in projects such as the Khadakvasla reservoir and Tigra Dam.
Administrative Roles: His work included overseeing significant projects like the Laxmi Talav dam and flood protection systems in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam.
Internationally, Visvesvaraya contributed to projects like the Mokama Bridge over the Ganges and road planning between Tirupati and Tirumala. His legacy in education is preserved through numerous institutions named in his honour.
Transformative Contributions to Mysore
During his tenure as Diwan of Mysore from 1912 to 1919, Visvesvaraya’s visionary leadership led to the creation of several key institutions:
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 reflect his dedication to development and education.
Institutions Named After Visvesvaraya
Visvesvaraya’s enduring influence is honoured by several prestigious institutions:
Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur
Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi
Sir M. Visvesvaraya Institute of Technology, Bangalore
University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering, Bangalore
The Importance of National Engineers’ Day
National Engineers’ Day is a celebration of the essential role engineers play in advancing technology, infrastructure, and innovation. It is a chance to acknowledge their contributions and recognize the impact of their work on daily life. Engineers are pivotal in driving societal progress, from pioneering new technologies to maintaining vital infrastructure.
The day also serves as inspiration for young people to pursue engineering careers. By showcasing the achievements of leaders like Visvesvaraya, National Engineers’ Day encourages the next generation to embrace the challenges and opportunities in the field, fostering a spirit of continuous learning and innovation.
Observances and Reflections
As September 15, 2024 approaches, National Engineers’ Day will be marked by various events such as seminars, workshops, conferences, and award ceremonies. These activities will honour outstanding engineers and provide a platform for reflection on their profession and its societal impact.
World Engineers’ Day
World Engineers’ Day, observed on March 4, features a logo with 17 colours representing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This design underscores a global commitment to sustainable infrastructure, energy solutions, and water management.
FAQs
When is Engineers’ Day celebrated?
Engineers’ Day is celebrated annually on September 15 in honour of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya.
What is Engineers’ Day?
Engineers’ Day is dedicated to celebrating the contributions of engineers to society, recognizing their hard work, innovation, and impact across various fields.
How is Engineers’ Day celebrated?
The day is marked with a range of activities, including seminars, workshops, conferences, and award ceremonies. It also serves as a time for engineers to reflect on their profession and its impact on society.
In Summary
National Engineers’ Day is a tribute to Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya’s exceptional 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 a brighter future.