Industrialist Sunil Alagh takes charge as Chairman of NIT Jamshedpur

Jamshedpur: Sunil Alagh, a prominent figure in India’s corporate world, formally assumed charge as the new Chairman of the Board of Governors (BOG) of the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jamshedpur. On his arrival at the institute campus, he was warmly welcomed by Director Prof. (Dr.) Goutam Sutradhar, who felicitated him with a shawl, bouquet, and memento.

Appointed by the President of India,  Alagh visited the institute on Thursday to review ongoing academic and infrastructural activities and to engage in discussions focused on the institution’s future roadmap. During his visit, he interacted with Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members, and also addressed members of the press and digital media at the Diamond Jubilee Hall.

Speaking to reporters,  Alagh expressed his commitment to elevating NIT Jamshedpur’s academic stature. “Efforts will be made to significantly improve the institute’s national ranking. Work will focus on both academic benchmarks and the strengthening of infrastructure,” he said. He also encouraged the faculty and staff to embrace innovation and continuous learning. “You must keep reading, learning and stay updated with new ideas,” he urged.

Institute Director Prof. (Dr.) Goutam Sutradhar, in his address, reiterated his vision of placing NIT Jamshedpur among the top 50 engineering colleges in India. He presented a detailed outline for the holistic development of the institute and called upon all stakeholders to contribute with positive thinking and collective effort.

 Sunil Alagh is the founder and managing director of SKA Advisors, a well-regarded business and brand management consultancy. He is the former MD and CEO of Britannia Industries Limited and an alumnus of St. Xavier’s College and IIM Kolkata. His corporate experience spans several leading boards including Prasar Bharati, United Breweries, Gati Limited, Indofil Industries, and international consulting with Hannover Re, Germany.

He has been a key face in India’s management and media circuit, having hosted CNBC India’s first job hunt show The Job Show and served as President of the All India Management Association (AIMA) in 2004. Over the years, he has received several accolades, including the Anhe Kashalkar Memorial Gold Medal (2000) for his contributions to the food processing sector and being a finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2002.

The event was attended by a large gathering of faculty and staff, including Deputy Director Prof. (Dr.) Ram Vinay Sharma, Registrar Colonel (Dr.) Nishith Kumar Rai, and PRO Sunil Kumar Bhagat. The presence of senior officials and enthusiastic participation by staff members marked a new chapter in NIT Jamshedpur’s journey towards academic excellence and innovation.