Manipal, January 31, 2026: Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal, a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University in collaboration with the Space Robotics Society (SPROS), inaugurated the International Rover Challenge (IRC) 2026 and the International Space Drone Challenge (ISDC) 2026 on 28 January at the MIT Quadrangle. The inauguration marked the commencement of a global convergence of young innovators, celebrating technological excellence, scientific curiosity, and collaborative learning.
Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, presided over the ceremony as Chief Guest. Expressing his appreciation for the enthusiastic participation, he noted the presence of 33 international and national rover teams and 22 drone teams at Manipal. Welcoming participants from across India and abroad, he underscored that platforms such as IRC and ISDC exemplify MAHE’s philosophy of learning by doing, where theoretical knowledge is translated into practical, real-world solutions. He further emphasised that such competitions cultivate perseverance, confidence, and a sustained spirit of innovation, contributing not only to technological advancement but also to nation-building and economic growth.
Addressing the gathering, Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana, Director, MIT, highlighted the vibrant energy and creative ambition resonating across the campus. He reiterated MIT’s commitment to holistic education beyond classroom instruction, supported by 26 major student project teams and over 70 technical and cultural clubs. He also acknowledged experiential initiatives, including the Himalayan cycling expedition, which play a vital role in shaping resilient, adaptable, and future-ready engineers.
Mr Sagar Dhaka, alumnus of MIT (EEE, Class of 2019) and Founder of the Space Robotics Society (SPROS), was warmly acknowledged for his visionary leadership and continued engagement with his alma mater. His contributions were recognised as instrumental in promoting, on global platforms, the idea that students can innovate, collaborate, and excel in advanced domains of robotics and aerospace technologies.
The inauguration of IRC 2026 and ISDC 2026 set an inspiring tone for the days ahead, reinforcing MIT MAHE’s role as a hub for innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence in engineering and technology.
