German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann presents the Bundesverdienstkreuz am Bande (German Order of Merit) on behalf of Federal Republic of Germany President Frank-Walter Steinmeier
New Delhi, NFAPost: Fraunhofer Office India Director Anandi Iyer has been honoured with the Bundesverdienstkreuz (Federal Cross of Merit), the German government’s only general decoration award which was created on 7 September 1951.
This prestigious recognition celebrates Fraunhofer Office India Director Anandi Iyer’s outstanding contributions to Indo-German relations for over 25 years, coinciding with 50 years of Indo German Science and Technology Cooperation.
Anandi Iyer has been at the helm of the Fraunhofer Office in India for over 16 years, fostering strong ties and partnerships between India and Europe in the fields of science and technology. Her work has significantly advanced collaborative efforts in innovation and applied research in various fields such as smart cities, renewable energy, smart manufacturing and digitalisation, a testament to her membership in the Indo-German Expert Group on Digitalisation, established by the heads of government of both nations.
Presenting the award on behalf of Federal Republic of Germany President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann said 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 German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann.
The Bundesverdienstkreuz, Germany’s highest civilian honour, is an deep appreciation of Anandi Iyer’s tireless dedication to fostering international collaboration, innovation, and the empowerment of women in science and technology. This recognition underscores her significant impact on the global stage and reaffirms the importance of her contributions to the Indo-European partnership.
Expressing her gratitude, Fraunhofer Office India Director Anandi Iyer said she is 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,” said Fraunhofer Office India Director Anandi Iyer.
In addition to her pivotal role at Fraunhofer, Fraunhofer Office India Director 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, where she continues to advocate for the inclusion and advancement of women in STEM fields.
Recognising her invaluable expertise and leadership, the Government of India nominated her as “75 Women in STEAM’ on the occasion of the 75th year of Indian Independence and also nominated her as a Core Member of the ‘G20 Empower’ initiative. She is also the Chair for the G20 Empower Working Group on STEM, contributing to global efforts to enhance women’s participation in these critical areas.
Lauding the achievement of Anandi Iyer, TheNFAPost and NFAPostTV Managing Director Dr Rajesh Palayil said Fraunhofer India has made indelible mark in strengthening Indo-German ties using science and technology collaboration.
“TheNFAPost and NFAPostTV honour Anandi Iyer feat by becoming the fifth individual from India to win the Bundesverdienstkreuz. Her decades of hard work has touched millions of Indians. Besides being a homemaker and Indian woman, Anandi Iyer created a deep impact with her meritorious work and this should be appreciated,” said TheNFAPost and NFAPostTV Managing Director Dr Rajesh Palayil.
