IIT Madras director V Kamakoti receives Padma Shri Award 2026

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras director Veezhinathan Kamakoti has been conferred the Padma Shri Award 2026 for his contributions in the science and engineering field by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, today.

Kamakoti received his master's and PhD degrees in BTech computer science and engineering from IIT Madras. He joined the faculty of IIT Madras in 2001 and took over as its director in January 2022 to present.

Congratulating the IIT Madras director, Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan posted on X and said:

“His distinguished contributions to science and engineering, unwavering commitment to the vision of #NEP2020 and stewardship of pioneering initiatives, like BodhanAI and the Centre of Excellence in AI for Education, are helping shape an innovation-driven and knowledge-powered Bharat. My best wishes to him for continued success in the service of the nation.”

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IIT Bombay gets Padma Shri Award 2026

Notably, IIT Bombay alumnus Shashi Shekhar Vempati was also awarded the Padma Shri for his contributions to public service, media transformation, and institution-building.

Vempati graduated from IIT Bombay with a BTech in chemical engineering in 1995 and worked in various fields such as technology, media, governance, and citizen engagement over the past three decades.

IIT Bombay also highlighted that under Vempati’s tenure as the youngest chief executive officer (CEO) of Prasar Bharati, he led a massive modernisation drive of India’s public broadcasting system. Under his leadership, Doordarshan and All India Radio underwent digital transformation and expanded their global reach.

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About Padma Awards

The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian awards of the country and are conferred in three categories, including Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. The awards are given in various disciplines of activities such as art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc.

The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, the Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of high order, and the Padma Shri is conferred for distinguished service in any field.