Dr. Zarabi’s wisdom and vision will guide us for generations,: Dir NIT Srinagar

• Says Institute stands with his family at this time of sorrow and grief
• Two-Minute Silence Observed at NIT Srinagar in Honour of Dr. Zarabi

SRINAGAR: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Monday mourned the sudden demise of Dr. M.J. Zarabi, former Chairman of the Board of Governors, and expressed heartfelt condolences to his family.

The entire NIT Srinagar community, including teaching, administrative, non-teaching staff, and scholars, led by In-Charge Director Prof. (HAG) Roohi Naaz, Registrar, Deans, HODs, and HoCs, gathered near the Main Fountain Park for a condolence meeting. A two-minute silence was observed, and prayers were offered for the departed soul.

In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, paid rich tributes to Dr. Zarabi, describing him as a visionary leader and a guiding force for the Institute.

“Dr. Zarabi’s tenure as Chairman was marked by strategic vision, academic rigour, and genuine concern for institutional growth. His contributions to NIT Srinagar and the advancement of microelectronics in India are invaluable. We stand with his family in this time of grief and will continue to carry forward his vision,” Prof. Kanaujia said.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Roohi Naaz said, “Dr. Zarabi’s wisdom and vision will guide us for generations. His contributions have left an indelible mark on this institution and the field of microelectronics.”

She said as Chairman of the Board of Governors at NIT Srinagar (November 2014 – November 2017), he brought deep technical expertise and strategic vision. He meticulously conducted 9 Board meetings and displayed remarkable foresight and a genuine commitment to the Institute’s growth,” Prof. Roohi Naaz said.

“What always stood out about Dr. Zarabi was his ability to combine scientific precision with human understanding. He listened, advised, and encouraged. Whether it was a complex policy decision or the aspirations of a young student, he gave his full attention,” Prof. Roohi Naaz said.

She added that Dr. M.J. Zarabi’s legacy at NIT Srinagar lies not only in the policies he shaped but also in the culture of striving for the highest standards that he nurtured.

“I believe his legacy at NIT Srinagar is not only in the policies he shaped, but in the culture of striving for the highest standards that he encouraged. Faculty and students both benefited from his wisdom and intelligence as a mentor. We share their grief and the pride of having known him. His vision will continue to inspire us,” she said.

Prof. Roohi Naaz concluded with prayers for the departed soul, saying, “May the Almighty grant him eternal peace and give his family strength in this difficult time. We pledge to continue his mission, striving for excellence in education and research, she added.

A two-minute silence was observed as a mark of respect to Dr. Zarabi, with faculty, staff, and scholars joining in to honour his memory. Born and raised here in Kashmir, Dr. Zarabi went on to pursue his Bachelor’s degree from Jabalpur, and later his Master’s and Ph.D. from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore — one of the finest academic institutions in our country.

His doctoral work was recognized with the Alumni Medal for the best thesis of the year, an early sign of the brilliance that would define his career. Professionally, Dr. Zarabi became a name synonymous with India’s microelectronics journey. At the Semiconductor Complex Limited, he not only oversaw advanced VLSI manufacturing but also led groundbreaking projects in Gallium Arsenide technology for defence applications, and MEMS under the National Programme on Smart Materials.

These achievements placed India firmly on the map in the field of advanced electronics. When Dr. Zarabi joined NIT Srinagar as Chairman of the Board of Governors from November 2014 to November 2017, he brought with him this vast experience, deep technical knowledge, and a vision for institutional excellence.