Central govt chooses NIT Rourkela as Eastern India’s research hub

In a significant move to boost research and innovation, the Central Government announced that it has chosen the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela, as the nodal institution for a major collaborative research programme in Eastern India.

The decision aims to transform the region into a knowledge powerhouse by enhancing academic and research capabilities across multiple universities in Odisha. Further, the Union Government will not only fund this programme but also issue official notifications to facilitate smooth implementation.

Six Odisha Universities to Receive Full Research Support

Under this initiative, NIT Rourkela will provide comprehensive research infrastructure and academic collaboration to six prominent universities in the state:

1. Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla
2. Sambalpur University
3. Odisha University of Technology and Research (OUTR), Bhubaneswar
4. Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar
5. Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Bhubaneswar
6. Fakir Mohan University, Balasore

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NIT Rourkela’s Role as a Regional Anchor Institution

Being the only NIT in Eastern India to be selected for this prestigious responsibility, NIT Rourkela will act as the central research hub. Additionally, its advanced laboratories, interdisciplinary research centres, and experienced faculty will now be accessible to students and scholars from these partner institutions.

“This collaboration will enhance our students’ exposure to high-end research and innovation across technological and interdisciplinary domains,” said Prof. Himanshu Bhushan Sahu, Senior Professor at NIT Rourkela.

Empowering Students and Advancing Research Ecosystem

Students and faculty from the participating universities are expected to benefit from this shared platform, which aims to build a stronger research culture and improve skills in knowledge-intensive areas.

“This will open new doors for research, especially in emerging areas like AI, clean energy, and sustainable development,” said Sakshi Gupta, a student at NIT Rourkela.
Prof. Satya Pratihari, Dean of Research at NIT Rourkela, emphasised, “Our mission is to bridge the research gap and mentor upcoming talent from across the region.”

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A Proud Moment for Odisha’s Academic Community

Director of NIT Rourkela, Prof. K Umamaheshwar Rao, expressed pride in the selection and reiterated the institute’s commitment to academic excellence. “We are delighted that Rourkela has been recognised as the focal point for such a forward-looking initiative.”

(Reported by Pawan Tiwari)