PMIST Sets India and Asia Book of Records with ‘Flight of Thousand Dreams’ Aerospace Event

Thanjavur: Periyar Maniammai Institute of Science and Technology (PMIST), a deemed-to-be university in Thanjavur, successfully organized a grand aerospace-themed programme titled “Flight of Thousand Dreams” in collaboration with Auraa Aerospace. The event marked a historic achievement as the institution secured recognition from both the India Book of Records and the Asia Book of Records.

The programme aimed to inspire students to explore aerospace, innovation, and engineering. It witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 1,932 students from 27 schools and two polytechnic colleges, making it one of the largest academic aerospace gatherings in the region.

The day began with reporting and ground preparations by the Auraa Aerospace team, followed by student registration and a hands-on glider-making session. Participants designed and assembled handmade gliders, demonstrating creativity, teamwork, and technical aptitude. A fixed-wing air show further energized the atmosphere and captivated the audience.

The formal session commenced with a welcome address by Professor V. Ramachandran, Vice Chancellor of PMIST, who greeted the dignitaries and participants. He expressed pride in the overwhelming response and emphasized that dedication, skill, and perseverance are essential for success.

The Chief Guest, Shri T.K. Sundaramoorthy, a retired scientist from ISRO’s Department of Space, Bengaluru, shared his experiences and motivated students to pursue careers in science and technology. He highlighted India’s lunar mission that confirmed the presence of water on the Moon and encouraged students to contribute to the nation’s space ambitions. He also advised students to view knowledge as an investment that benefits their future.

Dr. Abijith Devanantham from the Technology Innovation Hub at IIT Tirupati appreciated PMIST’s efforts in promoting innovation and encouraged students to develop drones and entrepreneurial projects. He assured support for students with promising technological ideas.

Dr. V. Anburaj, Executive Council Member of PMIST, inaugurated the glider launch and recalled the institution’s previous Asia Book of Records achievement, “SKI NSLV Maniammaiyar SAT,” set in 2019. He inspired students by stating that aerospace engineering offers limitless possibilities when supported by the right structure and determination.

The highlight of the event was the official announcement by Mr. S. Sagayaraj, adjudicator from the India and Asia Book of Records, confirming that PMIST achieved the record for launching the maximum number of handmade gliders at a single venue. A total of 966 gliders, created by 1,932 students, were successfully launched, earning formal recognition and bringing pride to the institution.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. I. Karthic Subramaniyan, Head of the Aerospace Department. The programme also featured FPV and agricultural drone demonstrations, along with RC drone racing conducted by Auraa Aerospace Pvt. Ltd., Madurai.

The “Flight of Thousand Dreams” programme stood as a testament to PMIST’s commitment to nurturing innovation and inspiring young minds to explore the limitless opportunities in aerospace and engineering.