Engineers Day 2024 | 19 Sep 2024

Why in News?

Recently, on the occasion of Engineers Day, the Prime Minister paid tribute to Sir M. Visvesvaraya and extended his greetings to engineers for their contributions to innovation and progress across various fields.

What are the Key Facts About Sir M. Visvesvaraya?

About Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya: Born on 15th September 1861 in Karnataka, he was an eminent engineer, scholar, and statesman.
- A graduate of the College of Engineering, Pune, he went on to become one of India’s most respected engineers.
Engineering Contributions:
- Flood Control and Irrigation: He is best known for his pioneering work in flood control and irrigation projects. His design of the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam in Mysuru revolutionized water storage and irrigation.
- Automatic Water Floodgates: In 1903, he developed an innovative system of automatic water floodgates, which were installed at the Khadakwasla Dam in Pune.
- Urban Planning: Visvesvaraya played a critical role in the planning of the city of Hyderabad, improving its drainage and water supply systems.
Role in Public Service:
- He served as the Diwan of Mysore (1912–1918) and implemented major industrial and economic reforms.
- His emphasis on education, public health, and industrialization laid the foundation for economic development in the region.
- He is widely recognized as an early advocate and practitioner of Economic Planning in India, called the Visvesvaraya Plan, which he presented in a book titled “Planned Economy in India”.
Honors and Recognition:
- In 1955, he was awarded India’s highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, for his exceptional service to the nation.
- Sir M. Visvesvaraya was appointed in 1911 as a “Companion of the Order of the Indian Empire (CIE)” by King Edward VII.
- In 1915, he was conferred the title of “Knight Commander of the Order of the Indian Empire (KCIE)” for his contributions to the public good.
- He received an honorary membership from the Institution of Civil Engineers, London, a fellowship from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, and several honorary degrees, including D.Sc., LL.D., and D.Litt., from eight universities in India.
- He presided over the Indian Science Congress in 1923.
Engineers Day: His birth anniversary, 15th September, is celebrated annually as Engineers Day in India to honor his legacy and contributions to the field of engineering.