Key Points

In a formal communication, IIT Kanpur Director Prof. Manindra Agrawal informed Kumar of the honour, describing it as recognition of his “exceptional merit” and “exemplary professional accomplishments.” Kumar, who graduated in civil engineering from IIT Kanpur in the 1980s, currently heads the Election Commission of India.

“The Distinguished Alumni Award (DAA) of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur is the highest award given by the Institute to its alumni in recognition of their achievements of exceptional merit. On behalf of IIT Kanpur, it is my great pleasure to inform you that the Board of Governors of IIT Kanpur, after going through the record of your achievements, has unanimously resolved to confer upon you the Distinguished Alumni Award (DAA) for the year 2025,” Agrawal wrote in the letter addressed to the CEC dated September 23.

“Please accept my heartiest congratulations on being chosen for the Distinguished Alumni Award 2025. We feel proud of your achievements and are confident that you will continue to excel in all the endeavours you will undertake in the future too,” the letter further read.

The award ceremony will take place on Sunday, November 2, 2025, coinciding with the 66th Foundation Day celebrations of IIT Kanpur. Kumar and his family have been invited to the campus to receive the honour in person.

Prof. Amey Karkare, Dean of Resources and Alumni, has been designated as the coordinator for the event and will share the detailed programme schedule with the CEC.

Kumar, a 1988-batch Kerala cadre IAS officer, took over as the 26th Chief Election Commissioner of India in February 2024.

Over the years, he has held several key assignments, including as Secretary in the Ministry of Cooperation, and has been instrumental in electoral reforms and administrative innovations.

The conferment of the DAA 2025 adds to Kumar’s distinguished career in public service, placing him among the select alumni who have brought laurels to IIT Kanpur.

- IANS