Prof. H. C. Verma inspires NIT Srinagar students: calls for scientific inquiry beyond exams

Srinagar: Prof. H. C. Verma, one of India’s most celebrated physicists and educators, delivered an inspiring address at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Tuesday and urged them to look beyond the narrow goals of competitive examinations like JEE and NEET and instead embrace scientific inquiry as a lifelong pursuit.
In his keynote speech, Prof. Verma emphasized the value of curiosity-driven learning over rote memorization. He encouraged students to engage deeply with the fundamentals of Physics and Mathematics, citing unsolved problems in Physics that require fresh and imaginative thinking.
“Real science begins where textbooks end,” he said, stressing the need for innovation and original thought.
Prof. Verma also highlighted the pressing environmental challenges facing the world today. He called on the academic community, especially young scientists and engineers to incorporate sustainability into both research and daily practice.
“Water conservation and the responsible use of natural resources should be core concerns in scientific development,” he said.
Prof. Verma expressed his gratitude to the Department of Physics for hosting the event and fostering a vibrant academic culture at NIT Srinagar.
Expressing his appreciation, Prof. Verma thanked the Department of Physics for hosting the event and fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence and critical thinking.
Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, expressed his deep appreciation for Prof. Verma’s visit and its lasting impact. “We are honored to host Prof. H. C. Verma, whose teachings have ignited scientific curiosity across generations,” he said.
“His philosophy aligns perfectly with our mission at NIT Srinagar—to cultivate not just skilled engineers but thoughtful, socially responsible innovators. His interaction today will surely inspire a renewed sense of purpose among our students and faculty,” Prof. Kanaujia added.
The session was organized by Prof. M. A. Shah, Dean of Alumni Affairs at NIT Srinagar, who delivered the welcome address.
“Prof. Verma’s visit is not just an academic event—it is an emotional moment for generations of science lovers who grew up learning from his books,” Prof. Shah said.
“His presence rekindles a deeper love for Physics and reminds us that the purpose of education is not just to clear exams, but to transform minds,” he said.
Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rehman also praised the initiative, having a luminary like Prof. Verma on our campus is an inspiration for both students and faculty.
“His insights bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and real-world application. Events like these shape the ethos of an institute,” he said.
Prof. Rehman said that Prof. Verma has redefined the way Physics is taught in India. His philosophy of education aligns with our vision at NIT Srinagar to create thinkers, innovators, and socially conscious technologists. We are honored to host him, he said.
The lecture drew a diverse and enthusiastic audience, including faculty members from the Physics Department, lecturers from higher secondary institutions, research scholars, and undergraduate engineering students