IIT Mandi Welcomes Record-Breaking Undergraduate Batch for 2025-26, Sees Rise in Women Enrolment

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has made headlines this academic year with its highest-ever undergraduate intake since inception. The 2025-26 batch has brought in 592 students, marking a significant increase from last year's 514 admissions. Notably, women enrolment has witnessed a positive rise, aligning with the institute's efforts to foster gender equality and promote STEM education among women. With a thoughtfully designed orientation and induction programme, IIT Mandi is setting the tone for an inclusive, engaging, and holistic educational experience for its new entrants.

Record-Breaking Student Intake

According to an official statement from IIT Mandi, this year's admissions mark the largest undergraduate batch in the institute's history. Of the 592 students admitted, 394 are male students, while 121 are female students, up from 96 in 2024. This increase reflects IIT Mandi's continued efforts to make STEM education more accessible to women and to create a balanced academic environment.

The director of IIT Mandi, Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, highlighted the diversity of courses available to the new batch. The 2025-26 class includes enrolments in 13 different fields of study, featuring newly introduced courses like the Integrated MBA (IMBA) alongside popular branches such as Computer Science and Engineering, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and Microelectronics & VLSI.

A Focus on Gender Equality in STEM

In an official statement, the institute emphasized that the increase in female enrolment is a result of targeted initiatives to bridge the gender gap in science and technology education. By encouraging and supporting female students to pursue careers in engineering and related fields, IIT Mandi aims to set an example for other technical institutions across the country.

Orientation Programme: A Comprehensive Introduction to IIT Life

The orientation programme held at the institute welcomed new students and their parents with detailed presentations by senior faculty members, including Dr. Venkatesh H Chembrolu, Dean of Academics; Dr. Tushar Jain, Dean of Students; and Dr. Ramna Thakur, Chief Warden. They provided crucial insights into the academic structure, hostel life, student welfare schemes, institute rules, and co-curricular opportunities available at IIT Mandi.

The orientation concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing students and their parents to engage directly with faculty members and clarify any doubts. This interactive approach ensured that new students began their journey at IIT Mandi with confidence and a clear understanding of the opportunities ahead.

A 10-Day Induction Programme for Holistic Development

Beyond the orientation, IIT Mandi has designed a comprehensive 10-day induction programme running from August 1 to August 10. The programme aims to ease the transition of new students into campus life while fostering personal growth, social connections, and academic readiness.

Key features of the induction programme include:

• Technology and Motivation Sessions: Thought leaders and experts engage with students on topics shaping the future of technology and innovation.
• Super Sports Sunday: A dedicated day for sports and recreational activities to encourage physical fitness and teamwork.
• Well-Being and Mental Health Discussions: Sessions on nutrition, mental health awareness, and gender sensitisation to promote a balanced lifestyle.
• Yoga and Daily Physical Activities: Each day begins with yoga sessions to boost energy, focus, and overall well-being.
• Cultural Events and Interactions: Students participate in various activities designed to enhance peer bonding and introduce them to the cultural ethos of IIT Mandi.
• Environmental Initiatives: The programme concludes with a tree plantation drive and a nature walk, reflecting IIT Mandi's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

A Vision for the Future

With the highest-ever intake and increasing gender diversity, IIT Mandi is steadily moving towards becoming a hub of inclusive and forward-looking education. The institute's focus on academic excellence, mental well-being, gender equality, and environmental responsibility sets the stage for nurturing future leaders in technology and innovation.

By offering a rich mix of academic programmes, holistic development opportunities, and a welcoming campus environment, IIT Mandi continues to strengthen its reputation as one of India’s leading IITs. As the 2025-26 batch embarks on its journey, the institute remains committed to fostering an ecosystem that empowers students to excel not just academically, but as responsible, well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to society.