Mangaluru: "We are one million engineers at Institute of Engineers IEI (India), but we must double it to two million by 2020 and ask for our rightful place in the country" urged Dr Ranga Reddy in his addressal to IEI (India), Institute of Valuers and association of engineers, DK, Kodagu and Udupi.

He was emphasizing on the role of IEI, in the perspective of the country. "There are many associations of engineers, but IEI is the only one that can issue 'Chartered Engineer" title and the only institute that is valued abroad," said Dr Reddy.

A good gathering of engineers had assembled at the board room, Hotel Deepa Comforts, here.

"IEI (India) is the biggest association of engineers in South Asia. The body which will celebrate its centenary in 2020 must have a strong voice in the country," was his strong appeal.

"The IEI is recognized by a Royal Charter and is the only body that is recognized internationally. I was in Kuwait and to have eligibility to work as an engineer there, one has to be a member of IEI," he stated.

"Like in the medical profession, where doctors have to attend some conferences every year to enhance their knowledge, as well as to retain membership, the engineers too must have a similar eligibility criteria," said Dr.Reddy

Dr Surendranathan, who was Dr Reddy's 'Guru' at NITK, and chairman, IEI, presided, and made a note of Dr Reddy's suggestion and also mentioned that IEI in the city, will have its own building shortly. The earlier premises had some issues.

Annappa welcoming G R Rai, chairman, institute of valuers, made his observations. Divaker Shetty when thanking, asked for the provisions for AMIE qualified engineers to answer MTech or ME exams.

Jerardin D'Souza, founder, MAA, Mangalore Alzheimer's Association, wrote a 'Remember Me' badge and created awareness regarding 'World Alzheimer's Month' and also invited Dr Reddy, Dr Surendranathan and others for the month long observation of Alzheimer's Awareness campaign. "He is doing a wonderful job," said Dr Surendranathan, who is a professor of metallurgy, at NITK, Surathkal.

"September 7 is part of the World Alzheimer's month. There is a radio chat on BIG FM featuring the popular RJ rockstar Rupesh with Jerardin D'Souza from 10 am to 12 pm," said D'Souza,

There is an election in process for the IEI office bearers of the state.

The meeting ended and there was good interaction between all the engineers during the course of the buffet dinner hosted by Dr Ranga Reddy.