From Innovation to Impact, illuminate in Mysuru sparks conversations on Engineering Intelligence across Frontier Technologies

Mysuru, Feb 21, 2026: illuminate, a flagship public lecture series co-presented by L&T Technology Services Limited (BSE: 540115, NSE: LTTS), and The National Institute of Engineering (NIE), Mysuru, brought together leading experts to share perspectives on frontier technologies and how the ideas are turning to outcomes. Prof. Navakanta Bhat, Dean, Division of Interdisciplinary Sciences, and Professor at CeNSE, IISc and Shri Y. Dilip, Director, ADE, DRDO – Bengaluru, shared deep perspectives and experiences with more than 2,000 strong audience, including engineering students, practitioners, and industry veterans.

The immersive keynote sessions explored the latest frontiers of technology – from across Mach 6 speed UAVs to nanoscience and new-age materials. Prof. Bhat, in his address, spoke about the latest transformations and breakthroughs in the field of biosensors and deep tech innovations, and his journey toward establishing the National Nanofabrication Centre (NNFC) in IISc. Shri Dilip shared the inspiring story of steering the Stealth Wing Flying Test Bed (SWiFT), India's first autonomous flying-wing Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) demonstrator and the steps being taken toward strengthening the nation’s aerial defense capabilities. 

In a subsequent fireside chat, moderated by Ashish Khushu, Chief Technology Officer, L&T Technology Services, the speakers delved into the growing impact of AI-embedded solutions and nanotechnologies in reshaping real-time outcomes. The panel also deliberated how young engineers today can find their calling in emerging technologies, underscoring Engineering Intelligence (EI) as a vital link between AI and its widespread adoption across intelligent systems that self-optimize, adapt, and evolve through reasoning.

Amit Chadha, CEO and Managing Director, L&T Technology Services commented on the occasion, “This year’s illuminate highlighted that resilience and determination in the face of challenges will enable technologies that reshape national excellence. Advancements across aerospace defense and nanotechnology are positioning India at the forefront global engineering and AI landscape. Such instances of robust industry-academia partnership play a key role in equipping the next generation of engineers with real-world scenarios and challenges. The first-hand experiences shared by practitioners and R&D leaders will continue to be a source of encouragement and inspiration.”

Prof. (Dr.) Nagendra Parashar, Principal, The National Institute of Engineering observed, “illuminate, 4^th edition is a testament to our long-standing collaboration with LTTS. Through this initiative we aim to bridge the traditional industry-academia divide and provide young engineers with a clear direction and motivation. As new breakthrough technologies emerge across vital areas like nanoscience’s and aeronautical engineering, we remain committed toward curating first-hand experiences from different spheres of technology to unlock the potential and opportunities that lies ahead.”

About NIE

The National Institute of Engineering (NIE) in Mysore is a renowned technical institution known for its excellence in engineering education. Established in 1946, NIE has consistently maintained high academic standards and produced skilled engineers who have made significant contributions in various fields. The institute offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering and technology, emphasizing a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. With state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a strong commitment to research and innovation, NIE continues to be a leading institution in shaping the future of engineering professionals.