Dr. Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya
Honoring the Visionary Engineer and Statesman
About Dr. M Visvesvaraya
Engineers' Day in India is celebrated on September 15th to commemorate Dr. M Visvesvaraya's contributions. A distinguished engineer and statesman, he played a monumental role in India's infrastructure and industrial growth, including pioneering the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam project. He was honored with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, for his contributions.
Early Life and Background
Born on September 15, 1861, in Muddenahalli, Karnataka, Dr. Visvesvaraya, affectionately known as Sir MV, emerged as a brilliant civil engineer, scholar, and visionary. His work spanned infrastructure, irrigation, and industrial advancements, laying the foundation for modern engineering in India.
Engineering Achievements
Among his landmark achievements, Sir MV supervised the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam project in Mysore, the largest reservoir in Asia at the time. He also patented automatic weir water floodgates, which were first implemented at Khadakvasla Reservoir near Pune, showcasing his engineering foresight.
Leadership and Contributions
Dr. Visvesvaraya served as the Diwan of Mysore (1912-1918), introducing reforms in education, agriculture, commerce, and public works. His initiatives led to the founding of the Government Engineering College in Bangalore (now University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering), Karnataka Bank, the Century Club, and the Mysore Chamber of Commerce.
Legacy and Impact
Dr. Visvesvaraya's vision for industrial progress led him to establish the All India Manufacturer's Organisation (AIMO) in 1941, which continues to support MSMEs and startups. For his remarkable contributions, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1955 and left a lasting legacy in 1962 at the age of 101.
For more about his life and legacy, explore the AIMO website.