Government Polytechnic Kanpur was established in 1962. the institute was started with only two branches Civil Engg. and Mechanical Engg. with admission capacity of 180 students, now it is running 18 disciplines of engineering in double shift with admission capacity of 1800 students.

The institute is one of the first four premier institutions to run Multi Point Entry and Credit system in UP.

Campus amenities and atmosphere makes it a best polytechnic of UP. NITTTR Chandigarh has adjudged this institute as one of the outstanding polytechnics in northern region of India for the year 2008-09 and awarded it by best polytechnic award.