The three-day International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence–Driven Computational Fluid Dynamics, scheduled from January 12 to 14, 2026, was inaugurated today at IIT Gandhinagar. The symposium focuses on advancing interdisciplinary research by integrating artificial intelligence with computational fluid dynamics. It aims to foster innovative problem-solving approaches and equip participants with cutting-edge tools to effectively address complex challenges in fluid dynamics.
The inaugural ceremony began with the lighting of the lamp. Prof. Vinod Narayanan, Conference Chair, IIT Gandhinagar, delivered the welcome address. The inaugural address was delivered by Prof Rajat Moona, Director, IIT Gandhinagar. Prof Debanik Roy from the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.
“Artificial Intelligence is a sophisticated, high-end statistical system capable of addressing computationally infeasible problems, and its integration with Computational Fluid Dynamics will transform the way complex engineering challenges are solved,” said Prof. Rajat Moona, Director, IIT Gandhinagar.
Sharing his own experience from his PhD, Prof Moona recalled how early computational models, even with relatively simple problems, could take days or weeks to run due to limited computing power. He said, “Even a small weather simulation at that time could take 24 hours of uninterrupted computation, and managing power and data availability was a major challenge. Traditional methods alone could not keep pace with such complex simulations, which is why high-performance computing and AI have become indispensable tools for engineers and researchers.”
Prof Moona also highlighted AI’s impact on engineering and society, welcoming delegates and expressing optimism that the conference would advance ideas and applications in CFD.
Prof Debanik Roy, Bhabha Atomic Research Center, Mumbai, was the guest of honour. He appreciated the active participation of students and young researchers, saying, “I always prioritize meeting students and young researchers, and I am pleased to see their active participation in this symposium.” Highlighting the role of AI in safety-critical research, he added, “While AI was not mature a decade ago, today we can use it to make systems smarter and more reliable, for example in groundwater flow measurement and radioactive discharge safety.”
Encouraging young researchers, Prof Roy said, “Developing user-friendly, freely available software will allow more researchers to apply these tools. You do not always need to be a domain expert but should have intuition to use these tools for technological solutions.” He also noted future challenges, stating, “Navigation and operation in feature-deficient environments, such as underwater systems, is an important area for innovative collaboration.” He further emphasized, “India must develop indigenous software for safety-critical activities, validated through experiments and clear presentation of results, to ensure impactful research.
Prof Akshai K Runchal of ACRI, CFD, India, highlighted the transformative potential of AI in computational fluid dynamics, noting, “Traditional methods alone can no longer keep pace with complex simulations. AI provides tools to accelerate solutions, though it must be used responsibly.” He explained that AI can uniquely integrate theoretical models with real-world data, creating simulations that are far more accurate and efficient than conventional approaches. “There is no aspect of human industry or activity today where CFD does not play a role,” he added, emphasizing that AI can further enhance safety and efficiency across diverse applications. He also stressed the importance of collaboration, stating, “This symposium aims to connect leading researchers in India and internationally, encouraging joint programs, innovative research, and informing policymakers on technological solutions.”
Prof Yogesh Jaluria, Rutgers University, USA, delivered the vote of thanks. He also noted the importance of international collaboration in advancing research, stating, “Events like this not only foster knowledge sharing but also help build long-term connections between researchers and institutions across countries.”
The three-day symposium of the AI–CFD Conference will feature a series of technical sessions, expert talks, and panel discussions by leading researchers from India and around the world. Topics include such as AI and machine learning applications in CFD, multiphysics processes, particle-laden flows, physics-informed learning, and industrial applications in areas such as combustion, additive manufacturing, and food processing. The symposium will also feature poster sessions and networking, offering participants a platform to share ideas and foster collaborations.