When was IIT Kharagpur established?

IIT Kharagpur was the first Indian Institute of Technology founded on August 18, 1951. Its foundation was a significant milestone in India's technical education history. It was established as a public technical and research university by the Government of India. It was also the first IIT to be recognised as an institute of national importance. 

A 22-member community recommended the establishment of IITs in India along the lines of MIT. The first IIT was founded in Kharagpur with the name adopted before the formal inauguration by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. 

IIT Kharagpur initially trained engineers after the independence. Over the years, it played a pioneering role in developing technical education in India. Over time, it has grown in size and reputation becoming a leading institute known for its programs in engineering, science and humanities.