The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur has been associated with a landmark achievement as a large-scale electric bicycle distribution initiative earned a place in the Guinness World Records. The recognition highlights a major advancement in India’s transition toward environmentally responsible transportation.

The record was set through the E-Cycle programme, an ambitious initiative focused on expanding access to electric bicycles. The effort brought together multiple stakeholders, including EMotorad, the Kuppam Area Development Authority (KADA), the Chittoor District administration, and the Government of Andhra Pradesh.

The distribution event was conducted in the Kuppam constituency and coordinated by the Andhra Pradesh government through KADA. The Guinness World Records certificate was formally presented at the event by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

The programme aimed to promote clean, low-emission transportation solutions for everyday use. IIT Kanpur contributed as a technical partner under its Kuppam Net Zero Constituency Project, offering planning expertise and technical input to support effective implementation.

Two alumni of IIT Kanpur played key roles in the execution of the project. Hari Shankar, a consultant for the Net Zero initiative, and Vikas Marmat, Project Director at KADA, were closely involved in coordination and oversight. The institute was represented at the event by project leaders Manoj K. Tiwari and Rajeev Jindal.

Institute leadership noted that the Guinness World Record reflects IIT Kanpur’s long-standing emphasis on sustainability-focused innovation and solutions that deliver tangible public benefits. The Kuppam initiative was highlighted as a successful example of collaboration between academic institutions and government agencies.

Project representatives described the recognition as an important milestone in the institute’s broader sustainability efforts and acknowledged the administrative and organisational support that enabled the initiative to be implemented on a large scale.

The record-setting effort contributes to ongoing clean mobility initiatives in Kuppam, with officials emphasising that electric bicycles offer an affordable and practical alternative for short-distance travel while helping reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Established in 1959, IIT Kanpur is an Institute of National Importance known for its work in science, engineering, and interdisciplinary research. The institute continues to partner with governments and communities to translate academic expertise into impactful real-world solutions.