Chanakya University’s Chanakya Convergence Forum Brings Together Space-Tech Leaders and Academia in Bengaluru

Chanakya University’s Chanakya Convergence Forum Brings Together Space-Tech Leaders and Academia in Bengaluru

New Delhi [India], September 12: Chanakya University hosted the Chanakya Convergence Forum (CCF), an academia-industry engagement series, on September 10, 2026 at Accel LaunchPad, Koramangala.

The inaugural edition brought together leaders and practitioners from India’s space technology ecosystem for an evening of knowledge sharing and networking around the future of India’s space economy.

Themed “India’s Space Economy & The Next Decade,” the Forum opened with a keynote address from Dr. S. Somanath, Chancellor, Chanakya University and Former Chairman, ISRO, who spoke on the need for sustained investment in space research and allied sectors for national development. He urged industry partners to collaborate with Chanakya on R&D so that future innovators in the field get hands-on training.

This was followed by a panel discussion, “Who Will Build India’s Space-Tech Future?”, featuring Sri Prashanth Prakash, Partner at Accel India, Sri Suyash Singh, Co-founder of GalaxEye Space, and Prof. Duvvuri Subrahmanyam, IISc. Sri Prashanth Prakash noted that India’s private space-tech sector is still in its early days and has exciting days ahead, Sri Suyash Singh spoke on the need for greater innovation and policy support, and Prof. Duvvuri Subrahmanyam expressed confidence in closer academia-industry alignment for space research.

The Forum felicitated Prof. P.A. Ramakrishna from IIT Madras, Dr. V. R. Lalithambika from ISRO, Sri Suyash Singh from GalaxEye Space, and Prof. Duvvuri Subrahmanyam from IISc for their outstanding contributions to the growth of the space sector in India.

Sri Mohandas Pai, Chairman, Aarin Capital, also addressed the gathering, speaking on the need to invest further in infrastructure and RCD for India’s economy. He urged young people in the audience to dream big, build startups and create jobs, and while being candid about gaps in policy, reform and governance, closed on an optimistic note about India’s path to becoming a developed nation.

At the event, Prof. S. Sadagopan, Founding Director, IIIT-B launched the Centre for Technology Development and Consultancy (CTDC), through which the University will work directly with industry and startups to develop, test and deploy technology solutions. CTDC’s mandate spans technology co-development, IP and research commercialisation, industry consultancy, executive education and incubation support for young innovators.

The University also launched the Chanakya SpaceTech Fellowship (2026–27), an industry-academia initiative placing young researchers on industry problems sponsored by industry partners. Fellows will work across domains including satellite communications, earth observation, space robotics, radar signal processing, hyperspectral imaging and space debris tracking. Prof. H. S. Subramanya, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Chanakya University invited companies to join Chanakya through the fellowship along with research collaboration on other high-tech sectors such as mobility, pharma and devices, and artificial intelligence.

The Forum saw participation from space-tech companies including Nibe Industries, Collins Aerospace, GalaxEye Space and EtherealIX, alongside venture capital firms such as 3One4 Capital, Momentum Capital, Pratithi and the Kris Gopalakrishnan Family Office, offering a platform for founders, investors and researchers to connect. Other prominent guests included entrepreneur Sri Madan Padaki, Sri Umakant Soni from Bharat1.AI, Smt. Malini Goyal from UnboxingBlr, Prof. Aloke Kumar from IISc, and many more.

Pro-Chancellor Sri M.P. Kumar delivered the closing remarks, describing the CCF as the institution’s step toward integrating industry with academia and reaffirming Chanakya’s commitment to building a culture of industry-aligned research and curriculum.

The Chanakya Convergence Forum is a flagship platform bringing together leaders and thinkers to engage with questions that matter and ideas that can shape the future, with each edition centred on a theme at the intersection of industry, research, entrepreneurship and institutions.

Dr. S. Somanath Assumes Office as Chancellor of Chanakya University; Reconstituted Board of Governors Announced

Dr. S. Somanath Assumes Office as Chancellor of Chanakya University; Reconstituted Board of Governors Announced

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], June 12: Chanakya University marked a momentous occasion today as Dr. S. Somanath, Eminent Scientist and Former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), officially assumed office as the Chancellor of Chanakya University on 12th June 2025. In his inaugural address, he laid out a bold and inspiring vision for the University’s future, urging the academic community to go beyond conventional benchmarks and focus on shaping the character and competence of every student. He envisioned Chanakya University as a modern-day Nalanda or Takshashila–rooted in India’s civilizational values and responsive to future challenges.

Highlighting a critical structural gap, Dr. Somanath called attention to the disconnect between academia and industry. He emphasized that academic research must feed into the nation’s economic growth and encouraged Chanakya University to take the lead in pioneering high-impact, industry-relevant innovation.

He also spoke about the need to cultivate an ecosystem that naturally attracts top talent from around the world–a space where growth, innovation, and collaboration thrive, and where students aspire to be part of a larger mission.

The event was graced by Founder Chancellor Prof. M. K. Sridhar, Pro-Chancellor Sri M. P. Kumar, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yashavantha Dongre, Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. H. S. Subramanya, Chief Operating Officer Sri Nagaraj Reddy, Registrar, Deans, Department Heads, Faculty, Staff, and Students–marking a transformative new chapter in the University’s journey.

The university also announced the reconstitution of its Board of Governors in accordance with the Chanakya University Act. Dr. Somanath will chair the newly formed Board, which includes a distinguished panel of leaders from academia and industry:

  • Prof. M.K. Sridhar, Padma Shri Awardee and President, Centre for Educational and Social Studies, Bengaluru.
  • Sri M.P. Kumar, Pro Chancellor, Chanakya University, Ex-Officio.
  • Prof. Yashavantha Dongre, Vice Chancellor, Chanakya University.
  • Sri Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman, Axilor Ventures; Co-founder, Infosys.
  • Sri T.V. Mohandas Pai, Chairman, Aarin Capital Partners.
  • Dr. Shamika Ravi, Member, Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (UGC nominee).
  • Prof. B. Mahadevan, Former Professor, IIM Bangalore.
  • Prof. Nandini N., Former Professor, Bangalore University.
  • Sri Nagaraj Reddy, Secretary, Centre for Educational and Social Studies.
  • Principal Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of Karnataka (Ex-Officio Member).
  • Prof. H.S. Subramanya, Pro Vice Chancellor, Chanakya University.
  • Prof. Sushanth T Joshi, Registrar, Chanakya University.

This dynamic leadership team signals a bold new chapter for Chanakya University as it aspires to become a global hub of learning, innovation, and societal transformation–anchored in India’s timeless civilisational values.

  • Event
  • Closed
  • 4 min read

Inauguration of School of Engineering at Chanakya University: A New Era in Technical Education

Inauguration of School of Engineering at Chanakya University: A New Era in Technical Education

Bangalore — 29th Oct 2024 — Chanakya University proudly announces the grand inauguration of School of Engineering on 28th Oct 2024, marking a significant milestone in technical education. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Dr. S Somanath, Chairman – Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Prof. Mahesh Panchagnula, Professor, IIT Madras and Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Dept. of Science and Technology, Govt. of India.

The School of Engineering at Chanakya University aims to cultivate innovative thinkers and skilled professionals equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. With a curriculum designed to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical application, the school offers programmes such as Computer Science and Engineering, Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Electronics Engineering (VLSI and Embedded Systems), Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and Civil, Construction and Sustainable Engineering.

Dr. S Somanath, a pioneering figure in India’s space endeavors, delivered the inaugural address, emphasising the importance of engineering education in driving technological advancements. Prof. Abhay Karandikar highlighted the role of academia in fostering research and innovation, crucial for the nation’s progress in science and technology.

“Today, we ignite a beacon of innovation and excellence with the inauguration of School of Engineering. Our vision is to nurture talented engineers who will harness technology to transform lives. An engineer must be capable of providing remedies for the complex problems of the society. A constant learner who is rooted in the culture, heritage and traditions has a better exposure for solving complexities around. I urge the students to embrace curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Let us bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering solutions for a better tomorrow” – Dr. S Somanath said.

Prof. Karandikar added, “The foundation of any great institution lies in its commitment to inspire innovation, nurture critical thinking, and empower future leaders. Today, with the inauguration of the School of Engineering at Chanakya University, we embark on a journey to create a vibrant ecosystem where technology meets purpose, and knowledge transforms into impactful solutions for the society. Let us strive to make this school a beacon of excellence, where every student not only learns but also contributes to the advancement of our nation and the world.”

Prof. Mahesh Panchagnula, Professor, Applied Mechanics, IIT Madras said “The opening of the School of Engineering at Chanakya University marks more than just the start of a new academic chapter; it represents a commitment to shaping future innovators, thinkers, and leaders who will drive meaningful change. We are building a place where ideas flourish, collaboration thrives, and knowledge is transformed into action that addresses real-world challenges. Together, let us foster a community that is dedicated to engineering a better tomorrow.”

Founder Chancellor and Padma Shri Awardee Prof. M. K. Sridhar, Pro Chancellor Sri M P Kumar, Vice Chancellor Prof. Yashavantha Dongre, Director – Academics, School of Engineering Dr. Vineeth Paleri, Chief Operating Officer Sri Nagaraj Reddy, and Registrar Prof. Sushanth Joshi, were present during the inauguration.

About Chanakya University:

Chanakya University, located in Devanahalli, is renowned for its innovative approach to higher education. With a strong emphasis on research, interdisciplinary learning, and community service, the University aims to develop well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society.

For details, contact:

School of Engineering

Sri Chandrashekar, Media and Communications

chandrashekar.km@chanakyauniversity.edu.in

www.chanakyauniversity.edu.in