RGIPT 10th Convocation and Institutional Progress

On 24 October 2026, the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology (RGIPT), an Institution of National Importance under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, celebrated its 10th convocation at the Bengaluru campus. The ceremony, attended by graduating students, saw the conferral of degrees and medals.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. B. K. Das, Director General of Electronics and Communication Systems at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), who served as Chief Guest. Shri Srivats Kamisetty Prabhakaran, Senior Partner and Vice President of IBM, and Dr. Varadharaju Janardhanan, Chief Human Resources Officer of Super.Money, were the Guests of Honour. Prof. Aniruddha Bhalchandra Pandit, President of the Board of Governors of RGIPT, joined virtually.

In his address, Prof. Harish Hirani, Director of RGIPT, highlighted the institute’s expanding research capabilities, noting work in emerging areas such as hydrogen production from waste. He reported that a specific research technology now delivers performance approximately two‑ to four‑fold better than earlier results, underscoring the focus on translating research into patents and practical solutions.

Prof. Hirani also disclosed that RGIPT signed at least 28 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) during the year with educational institutions, CSIR laboratories and industry partners. These MoUs are intended to foster joint research, industry‑oriented training and other collaborative initiatives that bridge academic expertise with real‑world challenges.

Regarding campus infrastructure, Prof. Hirani announced a development programme valued at roughly ₹50 crore, to be executed by NBCC. The programme includes construction of an auditorium, a girls’ hostel, a dining hall and a guest house, all aimed at supporting Management Development Programmes, executive education and industry engagement. He noted that the B‑Block hostel is already operational, with nine additional rooms earmarked for visiting parents, and that a lift installation in the hostel is expected to be completed within one to two months.

Prof. A. B. Pandit, President of the Board of Governors, emphasized the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and urged students to continuously upgrade their skills and apply AI tools for societal benefit. He called for a focus on both research outputs and outcomes, encouraging translation of academic work into practical applications.

The Guest of Honour from IBM, Shri Prabhakaran, reiterated the significance of AI, critical thinking, communication skills and the habit of asking the right questions for professional success in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Dr. Janardhanan of Super.Money shared a personal anecdote to stress gratitude, resilience and positivity, urging graduates to maintain enthusiasm and purpose as they embark on their careers.

Dr. Das concluded by praising Prof. Hirani’s leadership, expressing confidence in India’s rising global influence, and encouraging the graduates to view their qualifications as a launchpad for contributing to the nation’s technological and innovative advancement.

Overall, the convocation underscored RGIPT’s commitment to developing skilled professionals, strengthening research and innovation, deepening industry collaboration, and expanding campus facilities to enhance the academic environment.

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