The Design Research Symposium 2025 served as a platform for the scholars of NID Ahmedabad to share their research work. Through this process, they validated their research directions and outcomes.

Dr. Ashok Mondal, Director, NID, Ahmedabad laid emphasis on constant encouragement towards fostering a culture of practice-based research and design education at NID.

The symposium was graced by Prof. Dr. Sudarsan Panigrahi, who attended as the Chief Guest and shared valuable insights on the importance of research-led practice in shaping the future of design education and industry.

The event featured two distinguished keynote speakers. Mr. Shashank Mehta, Advisor/Consultant, Research and Development, delivered an engaging keynote on contemporary design challenges and research methodologies. Dr. Rebecca Reubens, faculty and sustainability design expert, addressed the audience with a thought-provoking session on sustainability, social impact and responsible design futures.

The symposium was chaired by Mr. Vijai Singh Katiyar. Dr. Tridha Gajjar, Head, PhD Programmes, led the proceedings and anchored the sessions throughout the day. The organising team comprised Dr. Amit Sinha, Dr. Ashish Singh and Ms. Gautami Sangle, whose coordinated efforts ensured the smooth conduct of the event.

The presentations and discussions fostered meaningful dialogue on emerging design research directions, while also encouraging collaboration among scholars, faculty members and professionals from the wider design community.

The National Institute of Design continues to champion a rigorous research culture and remains committed to supporting scholars as they contribute to the evolving discourse on design in India and beyond.