Anandi Iyer Honored with Germany’s Highest Civilian Award
Celebrating 25 Years of Contributions to India-Germany Relations
New Delhi, June 22 – Anandi Iyer, Director of the Fraunhofer Office in India, has been awarded the Bundesverdienstkreuz (Federal Cross of Merit) by the German government. This prestigious award recognizes her outstanding contributions to strengthening India-Germany relations over the past 25 years, coinciding with 50 years of Indo-German Science and Technology Cooperation.
Advancing Science and Technology
For over 16 years, Anandi Iyer has led the Fraunhofer Office in India, fostering strong partnerships between India and Europe in science and technology. Her work has significantly advanced innovation and applied research in areas such as smart cities, renewable energy, smart manufacturing, and digitalization. She is also a member of the Indo-German Expert Group on Digitalization.
Recognition and Praise
German Ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann, praised Anandi Iyer for her exemplary work in strengthening Indo-German relations and advancing technology and innovation. He highlighted her dedication to empowering women in science and technology as truly inspiring.
“Anandi Iyer’s exemplary work has not only strengthened the Indo-German relationship but has also paved the way for significant advancements in technology and innovation between the two countries. Her dedication to empowering women in science and technology is truly inspiring. It is an honour to present her with the Bundesverdienstkreuz, acknowledging her invaluable contributions and relentless spirit,” said Ackermann.
Anandi Iyer’s Commitment
Anandi Iyer expressed her gratitude for the honor and reaffirmed her commitment to fostering innovation and supporting women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She stated, “I am deeply honoured to receive the ‘Bundesverdienstkreuz’. This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the power of international collaboration and the incredible potential we unlock when we work together across borders. I remain committed to fostering innovation and supporting women in STEM, ensuring that our future is inclusive, diverse, and driven by shared knowledge and expertise.”
Additional Roles and Recognitions
Besides her role at Fraunhofer, Anandi Iyer serves as the Chairperson of the Women in Science and Entrepreneurship Council (WISE) of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). She also co-chairs the Science, Innovation, and Technology Committee at FICCI, advocating for the inclusion and advancement of women in STEM fields.
The Indian government has recognized her expertise and leadership by nominating her as one of the “75 Women in STEAM” on the occasion of the 75th year of Indian Independence. She is also a Core Member of the ‘G20 Empower’ initiative and chairs the G20 Empower Working Group on STEM, contributing to global efforts to enhance women’s participation in these critical areas.
