IIT Ropar introduces new scholarship scheme, lays foundation stone for yogic sciences center

IIT Ropar on Jan 6 announced a new scholarship scheme for students from economically weaker sections and laid the foundation stone for a Centre for Yogic Sciences and Holistic Development at its campus.

The foundation stone was laid in the presence of Dr Ishan Shivanand, founder of Yoga of Immortals, after whom the center has been named.

The upcoming facility will house spaces for yoga, meditation, mindfulness sessions, aerobics, and other wellness-related activities, with the objective of integrating traditional yogic practices with modern scientific approaches.

Speaking at the event, IIT Ropar Director Rajeev Ahuja said the initiative reflects the institute’s focus on the overall well-being of its academic community.

“The center will play an important role in strengthening mental balance, reducing stress, and improving physical fitness across the campus. It will also conduct regular yoga and meditation classes, stress management programs, wellness initiatives for faculty members, and research in the field of holistic health,” he said.

Alongside the wellness initiative, the institute announced the Dr Ishan Shivanand Scholarship, under which 10 fully funded scholarships will be awarded each year to students from economically weaker backgrounds.

The scheme includes five scholarships for undergraduate students and five for postgraduate students.

IIT Ropar said the scholarship program is aimed at ensuring that financially disadvantaged but meritorious students are able to pursue their education without constraints and focus on their academic and personal development.