On 2nd February 2026, Prof. Arun Shukla, Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Rhode Island (USA), visited IIT Kanpur. Prof. Arun Shukla received his B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Kanpur in 1976. In 2009, IIT Kanpur conferred upon him the Distinguished Alumnus Award for his academic excellence.

During the visit, Prof. Arun Shukla met Prof. Bushra Ateeq, Dean, Office of International Relations (OIR), IIT Kanpur along with Prof. P. Venkitanarayanan, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Kanpur. The meeting focused on strengthening existing academic collaboration and exploring new opportunities for joint research activities, faculty engagement, and student exchange programmes.

Discussions highlighted potential cooperation in diverse research areas, including experimental mechanics, fracture mechanics, blast and impact studies, material behaviour under high loads, composite and nanomaterials, and underwater structural response. The visit further reinforced the academic partnership between IIT Kanpur and the University of Rhode Island.