IIT Mandi invites applications for its first 2-month multi-track summer residential program ‘Himshikhar 2026’

The Indian Institute of Technology Mandi (IIT Mandi), one of the country’s leading IITs, through its Centre for Continuing Education (CCE), invites applications for its first 2-month summer residential program, ‘Himshikhar 2026.’ The program is designed to provide students and young professionals with industry-relevant skills in the areas of emerging technologies and entrepreneurship, thereby bridging the gap between academia and industry.
The program provides participants with a holistic learning experience, live on the IIT Mandi campus, where they will work on real-life projects under the guidance of faculty and industry experts. The 190-hour structured program includes 100 hours of faculty-led sessions, 50 hours of tutorial sessions by PhD scholars, and 40 hours of sessions by industry experts.
Five specialized tracks in emerging technologies:
1. Software Development with AI: This track focuses on developing intelligent applications by combining fundamental concepts of software development with AI-based capabilities.
2. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: This covers key concepts of AI and ML, enabling participants to analyze data and develop solutions to real problems.
3. Agentic AI Systems: This track focuses on autonomous AI systems that can act independently and make decisions in dynamic situations.
4. Data Science: It emphasizes developing useful insights for decision-making through data analysis, visualization, and predictive modeling.
5. Entrepreneurship & Venture Building: This track focuses on startup ideation, business model building, and innovation-led growth.
Speaking at the program launch, Prof. Tushar Jain, Head of the Center for Continuing Education (CCE) at IIT Mandi, said, “The Himshikhar 2026 program is a convergence of academic excellence, national skilling infrastructure, and outcome-oriented training. Each module emphasizes building, problem-solving, and working with real tools, with guidance from experienced professionals and faculty.”
Eligibility and Admission Process:
• Minimum Eligibility: Candidates can apply for various specialized tracks for which the minimum eligibility is passing 12th class or equivalent examination.
• Application Process: Interested candidates can apply online through the official website of ‘Himshikhar 2026’.
• Entrance Exam: Candidates have to appear for an entrance exam based on reasoning and analytical ability.
• Counselling Process: Selected candidates will be invited for counselling where they will be able to select the track of their choice.
• Final Admission: Candidates have to confirm their seat by depositing the fees within the stipulated time limit.
Total Seats: 250 seats in each track (1250 seats in total)
The program will commence in May 2026, with reporting starting May 16, 2026, and classes starting May 18, 2026.
Through this initiative, IIT Mandi is further strengthening its efforts to bridge the gap between academic education and industry requirements and prepare the youth for the future in emerging technologies and innovation-based sectors.
For more information see:
https://cce.iitmandi.ac.in/himshikhar-2026/