National Engineer’s Day is celebrated across India on September 15th each year to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, a pre-eminent Indian engineer and statesman. The day acknowledges the significant contributions of engineers to nation-building and technological advancement.
The Legacy of Sir M. Visvesvaraya
Born in 1861 in Muddenahalli, Karnataka, Sir M. Visvesvaraya is hailed as one of India’s greatest nation-builders. His engineering genius and visionary administrative skills left an indelible mark on the country’s infrastructure. He is most celebrated for designing the flood protection system for the city of Hyderabad and serving as the chief engineer responsible for the construction of the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam in Mysore, which was the largest reservoir in Asia at the time it was built. His patented block system of automated gates to control water flow, first installed at the Khadakwasla reservoir near Pune in 1903, was a revolutionary invention that is still used in engineering projects worldwide.
A Visionary Administrator
Beyond his engineering prowess, Sir M. Visvesvaraya was a distinguished statesman. During his tenure as the Diwan of Mysore from 1912 to 1918, he was instrumental in founding numerous institutions, including the Mysore Soap Factory, the State Bank of Mysore, the University of Mysore, and the Government Engineering College (now University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering) in Bangalore. His motto, “Industrialize or Perish,” underscored his belief that India’s future prosperity depended on industrial and technological self-reliance. His comprehensive development plans transformed Mysore into a “model state.”
National Engineer’s Day 2025 Theme
Each year, National Engineer’s Day is marked by a specific theme that reflects contemporary challenges and opportunities in the field. For 2025, the focus is on “Engineering for a Sustainable and Smart Future.” This theme encourages the engineering community to develop innovative solutions that address climate change, promote renewable energy, build smart infrastructure, and harness artificial intelligence for societal benefit. It calls upon engineers to follow in Visvesvaraya’s footsteps by applying their skills for the greater good and creating a resilient and technologically advanced India.
Celebrating the Nation’s Builders
On September 15, engineering institutions, public and private sector companies, and professional organizations across India host seminars, workshops, and award ceremonies. These events pay tribute to Sir M. Visvesvaraya and recognize the outstanding achievements of contemporary engineers. The day serves as an inspiration for young students to pursue engineering and contribute to the nation’s progress, carrying forward the legacy of innovation, integrity, and excellence left by one of India’s most revered figures.
