Dhanbad: The much-anticipated annual fest Umeed, hosted by the Student Society of IIT ISM Dhanbad under its Centre of Societal Mission, successfully brought together students from the local community, including children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
The event, held at the Penman Auditorium, featured a dynamic range of cultural and educational activities that showcased exceptional talent and fostered a spirit of social commitment.
The opening ceremony was graced by IIT ISM Director Professor Sukumar Mishra, who praised the participants for their outstanding performances and emphasized the role of cultural activities in nurturing the mind. He highlighted the growing academic interest in understanding the cognitive benefits of music and dance and suggested that such courses might be introduced in IITs soon. “Cultural activities do much more than entertain; they stimulate intellectual growth,” Professor Mishra noted.
The fest featured a variety of captivating performances, including the dance extravaganza Nrityangan, the musical program Dhwani, a vibrant painting competition called Chitrahaar, and engaging intellectual events such as the chess competition Shay and Maat and the science exhibition Mastermind. A particularly moving moment was the performance by children from the Pehla Kadam School, who left the audience inspired by their talent.
Professor Mishra also spoke about the importance of balancing Gyan (knowledge) and Vigyan (scientific inquiry), encouraging students to foster creativity and innovation alongside their technical education.
Professor Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director of IIT ISM, commended the Centre of Societal Mission’s ongoing social initiatives, including computer literacy programs, blood donation drives, and academic support for underprivileged children. He also highlighted the rare privilege young students have in performing at such a prestigious event at IIT ISM during their school years.
Professor Sanjeev Anand Sahu, Head of the Centre of Societal Mission, gave an overview of the center’s outreach activities, detailing how they empower marginalized communities, support young talent, and promote inclusivity.
The science exhibition was a key highlight, with students presenting innovative models that combined creativity with scientific inquiry. The event underscored the importance of academic curiosity and the potential of cultural celebrations in inspiring future generations.
Umeed 2025 stands as a testament to IIT ISM Dhanbad’s commitment to societal progress and the holistic development of its community. Through initiatives like the Centre of Societal Mission, the institute continues to provide valuable opportunities for students to explore their talents while strengthening its role in education and social service.
