Amritsar, October 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar, will organise a special programme on October 31, 2026, to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany, the internationally renowned scientist widely recognised as a pioneer of fibre optics. The event will honour his remarkable life, scientific achievements and groundbreaking contributions to the development of modern optical communications.
Inspired by Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh, the programme will be dedicated to the 450th anniversary of Sri Amritsar Sahib. Under the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership, the initiative reflects the university’s commitment to promoting scientific inquiry, research and innovation while celebrating eminent Indian-origin scientists whose contributions have had a lasting global impact.
Dr. Ravinder Kumar, coordinator of the programme, said the memorial lecture would provide an opportunity to revisit Dr. Kapany’s remarkable scientific journey and highlight the significance of his contributions to fibre optics and modern communication technologies. He added that dedicating the programme to the 450th anniversary of Sri Amritsar Sahib would connect the university’s academic initiatives with this historic milestone.
Dr. Kapany is widely recognised for his pioneering work in demonstrating the potential of transmitting light through optical fibres. His research and innovations contributed significantly to the development of optical communications, which underpin modern telecommunications, high-speed internet connectivity, medical imaging and numerous other technological applications. His achievements continue to inspire students, researchers and aspiring scientists to pursue excellence in science and technology.
Dr. Ravinder Kumar said Dr. Shivanand Kanavi, former vice-president of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and currently adjunct faculty at the National Institute of Advanced Studies in Bengaluru, would deliver the keynote address.
The memorial programme will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 31, at the Senate Hall, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar. The proceedings will commence with a welcome address, followed by the presidential address by Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh.
A documentary on Dr. Kapany’s life and achievements will provide participants with an overview of his scientific journey, landmark contributions and enduring legacy. Two expert lectures will follow, offering academic perspectives on his work and examining the continuing relevance of fibre optics in scientific and technological advancement.
Through this memorial initiative, GNDU aims to honour a distinguished scientist whose pioneering vision helped open new frontiers in communication technology. The programme will also seek to inspire younger generations to learn from his achievements and pursue careers in science, research and innovation, while celebrating his enduring contribution to modern science.
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