Over 3,000 students explore 500-plus research projects at IIT Delhi open house

IIT Delhi hosted its 19th annual Open House with 500 technology presentations. The event connected young learners with research, industry and home-grown innovation.New Delhi,Nov 1, 2026 19:23 ISTThe halls of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi came alive with scientific ideas, new inventions and young minds on Saturday as the Institute held the 19th edition of its annual Open House. The event offered students, teachers, researchers and industry representatives a close look at the exciting world of science and technology.More than 500 technological presentations were displayed across 10 different fields, including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technologies, Semiconductors, Robotics, Biotechnology, Advanced Materials, Defence and Space, and Sustainability. The exhibition included over 100 working models and prototypes, more than 225 research posters, over 80 laboratory demonstrations and upwards of 90 short talks by undergraduate and postgraduate students.Around 3,000 school and college students, along with more than 1,500 other visitors from industry, academia and the general public, attended the gathering.Dr Binay Kumar Das, Director General of Electronics and Communication Systems at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), inaugurated the event as the chief guest. He spoke to the young visitors on the theme, 'Young Minds, Strong Nation'. In his address, Dr. Das urged students to remain curious, take an interest in science and work towards the progress of the country. He praised IIT Delhi for bringing young minds together and giving them a chance to see the wonders of modern research.He also called upon students to remember their Indian roots, even if they travelled abroad for education or work. He reminded them that they had a duty to respect their country's traditions and give something back to the nation. He further stressed the need for close cooperation between universities, industries and research organisations to develop home-grown technologies.Prof Arvind Kumar Nema, Officiating Director of IIT Delhi, said the Open House helped bridge the distance between classroom learning, research and industry. He added that the event encouraged young people to become future leaders in science.Prof. Gufran Sayeed Khan, Chairperson of Open House 2026, said the event had received an encouraging response from students, industries and the public.The IIT Delhi Alumni Association also played an important part in the gathering. Forty-three distinguished alumni served as jury members, judging student projects and presentations across the 10 themes. The Association also supported Research and Innovation Awards for outstanding student projects.Nearly 1,200 IIT Delhi students helped organise the event, with faculty and staff lending their support.The Open House once again showed how the spirit of discovery can bring young people closer to science. It also reminded visitors that the road to a stronger and self-reliant India begins with curious minds, bold ideas and the courage to turn dreams into reality.- Ends