A one-week short-term course on AI/ML in Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 was successfully conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur in association with Techno India University, West Bengal, from 9th to 17th March 2026. Designed in alignment with the vision of NEP 2020, the programme brought together academia and industry to explore the transformative potential of intelligent technologies in modern manufacturing.
The course witnessed an enthusiastic response, with around 100+ participants, including faculty members, research scholars, engineering students, and industry professionals. This diverse participation reflected the growing relevance of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in shaping the future of Industry 4.0.
Structured to provide a comprehensive and application-oriented learning experience, the programme covered a wide range of key topics essential to smart manufacturing. Sessions included Advanced Materials and Manufacturing, IoT in Manufacturing Processes, and AI/ML in Robotics and Manufacturing, building a strong foundational understanding. Participants further explored IoT integrated with AI-ML and Cloud Computing, followed by insights into Smart Industrial Control and Automation. The course also addressed advanced areas such as Additive Manufacturing and Materials Characterization using Artificial Intelligence, culminating in discussions on AI-Driven Predictive Maintenance – an essential component of future-ready industries.
A key highlight of the programme was the strong academic engagement between IIT Kharagpur and Techno India University. Esteemed faculty members from both institutions contributed as speakers, offering a balanced blend of theoretical depth and practical insights. Notably, Prof. (Dr.) Gautam Majumdar, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Techno India University, along with Dr. Abhro Mukherjee, Professor – Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering; Dr. Amitava Ghatak, Associate Professor – Department of Mechanical Engineering and Dr. Subrata Saha, Associate Professor – Department of Mechanical Engineering, represented the university’s academic excellence and actively participated in knowledge dissemination.
The sessions, conducted online during evening hours, ensured accessibility and flexibility, allowing participants from varied professional backgrounds to engage effectively. The programme also encouraged interactive discussions, fostering idea exchange and a deeper understanding of real-world industrial applications.
From the perspective of Techno India University, this initiative reflects its commitment to strengthening industry–academia engagement and equipping learners with future-ready skills. By contributing to such high-impact programmes, the university continues to enhance its role in promoting interdisciplinary education and innovation.
More than just a short-term course, the programme served as a dynamic platform for learning, engagement, and exploration – preparing participants to navigate and lead in the evolving landscape of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0.