IIT Mandi launches ‘HIMSHIKHAR 2026’ residential program for tech and entrepreneurship

IIT Mandi has opened applications for HIMSHIKHAR 2026, a two-month residential summer program aimed at students and young professionals seeking skills in emerging technologies and entrepreneurship.

The program will begin in May 2026, with participants reporting on May 16 and classes starting on May 18. It will be conducted on campus, allowing learners to engage in hands-on projects within the institute environment under faculty and industry mentorship.

According to the institute, the program is structured over 190 hours, including 100 hours of faculty-led sessions, 50 hours of tutorials by PhD scholars, and 40 hours of sessions by industry experts.

Applicants must have completed Class 12 or an equivalent qualification from a recognized board. Registrations are being accepted online through the official portal.

As part of the admission process, candidates will be required to take an entrance test to assess reasoning and analytical abilities. Shortlisted candidates will then go through a counseling process to select their specialization and receive provisional admission details.

Admission will be finalized after completion of required formalities, including fee payment within the given timeline. The institute has announced 250 seats per track, with a total of 1,250 seats across all specializations.

The program offers five tracks in emerging fields. These include Software Development with AI, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Agentic AI Systems, Data Science, and Entrepreneurship and Venture Building, each focused on building practical and industry-relevant skills.