Engineers’ Day in India: Honouring Sir M. Visvesvaraya’s legacy

Team Udayavani, Sep 15, 2024, 10:34 AM IST

Every year on September 15, India celebrates Engineers’ Day, paying tribute to the vital contributions of engineers in shaping the nation’s infrastructure and driving technological advancement. This day holds special significance as it marks the birth anniversary of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, a pioneering civil engineer, statesman, and visionary leader whose innovations have left an indelible mark on India’s development.

The Life and Legacy of Sir M. Visvesvaraya

Born on September 15, 1861, in Muddenahalli current day Karnataka, Sir M. Visvesvaraya, also known as Sir MV, is regarded as one of India’s greatest engineers and public servants. His engineering acumen and leadership greatly influenced India’s progress during a time when the nation was in the early stages of industrialisation and infrastructure development.

Sir Visvesvaraya is most famous for his monumental contribution to the construction of the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) dam in Mandya, Karnataka. This project revolutionised irrigation in the region, transforming vast stretches of barren land into fertile agricultural fields. The dam also serves as a key source of drinking water for cities such as Bengaluru and Mysuru, underscoring its long-lasting impact on the region’s sustainability and prosperity.

Apart from the KRS dam, Sir MV’s expertise extended to flood control, drainage, and irrigation systems. His innovative solutions in water management earned him recognition not only in India but also internationally.

Sir M. Visvesvaraya’s Honors and Recognition

In recognition of his services to the country, Sir Visvesvaraya was knighted by the British Empire in 1915 and conferred with the titles Companion of the Order of the Indian Empire (CIE) and Knight Commander of the Indian Empire (KCIE). In 1955, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, for his extraordinary contributions to engineering and public service.

His influence extended beyond engineering, as he actively promoted industrial and educational growth in India. As the Diwan of Mysore from 1912 to 1918, he was instrumental in establishing various industries and educational institutions that contributed to the state’s economic progress.

How Engineers’ Day is Celebrated

Engineers’ Day in India is a recognition of the crucial role that engineers play in the country’s growth and progress. Engineers are at the heart of technological advancements, solving complex problems, developing infrastructure, and contributing to sectors as diverse as communication, healthcare, and energy.

Engineers’ Day is observed across India with various events hosted by educational institutions, professional bodies, and engineering colleges. Seminars, workshops, and conferences are held to discuss emerging trends, technological advancements, and challenges faced by the industry. These forums also provide an opportunity for engineers to showcase their achievements and share knowledge with the next generation of aspiring engineers.

The day is not only a celebration of engineers’ accomplishments but also an inspiration for young minds to explore the field of engineering and contribute to the nation’s development.