Who is popularly known as the "Father of Indian Engineering" for his contributions to civil engineering and national development projects?

Introduction / Context:
India has produced outstanding engineers whose work has shaped the nation's infrastructure and development. One of the most revered among them is Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, often hailed as the "Father of Indian Engineering." He was known for his pioneering work in irrigation, flood control and modernisation projects. This question tests whether you can identify him correctly among other prominent figures from different fields.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The title in question is "Father of Indian Engineering."
• The options given are James Hickey, Dr. M. S. Swaminathan, Nandalal Bose and M. Visvesvaraya.
• We must select the person associated with major engineering and infrastructure achievements.

Concept / Approach:
Sir M. Visvesvaraya was a civil engineer and statesman who contributed significantly to the construction of dams, reservoirs and irrigation systems in India. He played a key role in projects such as the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam and in the development of Mysuru as a modern city. His birthday, 15 September, is celebrated as Engineers' Day in India in his honour. The other personalities listed are famous in fields like journalism, agriculture and art, not engineering. Recognising this connection quickly leads to the correct answer.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Engineers' Day in India is celebrated on 15 September, the birth anniversary of Sir M. Visvesvaraya. Step 2: Remember that he was instrumental in designing dams, water supply schemes and flood control systems, earning him the reputation of being the Father of Indian Engineering. Step 3: Consider the other options. James Hickey is known as the founder of India's first newspaper, not as an engineer. Step 4: Dr. M. S. Swaminathan is regarded as the Father of the Green Revolution in India for his work in agricultural science. Step 5: Nandalal Bose is a legendary artist and a key figure in modern Indian art. Step 6: Therefore, the only option that fits the engineering title is M. Visvesvaraya.

Verification / Alternative check:
An alternative verification is to recall honours and titles. Sir M. Visvesvaraya was knighted by the British and awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, for his service. Public works like the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam in Karnataka and systems for water management in Hyderabad and other places are associated with his name. These achievements are repeatedly cited when discussing why he is called the Father of Indian Engineering.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
James Hickey: Known as a pioneer of journalism in India, not for engineering achievements.
Dr. M. S. Swaminathan: An agricultural scientist called the Father of the Green Revolution, which relates to crop productivity rather than engineering.
Nandalal Bose: A noted painter and art educator, with contributions to visual arts, not engineering.

Common Pitfalls:
Sometimes candidates confuse titles such as Father of Indian Engineering with other honorary titles like Father of the Green Revolution or pioneers of journalism. Another mistake is to choose an option simply because the name sounds familiar without recalling the person's field. Carefully matching the title to the individual's main area of contribution is the best way to avoid such errors.

Final Answer:
The person popularly known as the "Father of Indian Engineering" is M. Visvesvaraya.