Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) is one of India’s premier institutions, with a rich legacy dating back to 1847 when it was established as the Thomason College of Civil Engineering. It became the first engineering college in India and played a crucial role in training surveyors, engineers, and hydrologists during British rule. In 1949, it was renamed the University of Roorkee, and in 2001, it was designated as an IIT. The institute has been a pioneer in surveying, hydrology, and water resources, contributing significantly to glacier research in the Himalayas. IIT Roorkee’s scientists and engineers have been at the forefront of using geospatial technologies, remote sensing, and field-based studies to monitor Himalayan glaciers and their response to climate change.

Dr. Saurabh Vijay, from the Department of Civil Engineering at IIT Roorkee, has been actively leading research in remote sensing and geospatial techniques for studying glaciers. Recognizing the need to train young researchers and professionals in glaciology, he has played a key role in launching the Leh Indian Glaciology Summer School (LIGSS), starting in 2025. This initiative aims to bring together leading experts and students to enhance India’s capabilities in cryospheric sciences through fieldwork and advanced geospatial methodologies.