IITs resolve to work together for a vibrant R&D ecosystem

 HYDERABAD: A two-day conclave held here on May 8 and 9, under the aegis of Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH), to discuss measures on how IITs can jointly enhance the research and development ecosystem to achieve a self-reliant India saw the participation of deans and associate deans from 21 of the country’s premier IITs.

The first-of-its-kind conclave was inaugurated by Prof. B.S. Murty, director of IITH. He urged all IITs to ensure that their respective R&D activities focus on innovations, which will result in generating technologies, more jobs, and the emergence of startups and help interconnect with industries in their commercial pursuits. He said that sharing and exchange of research infrastructure and mentorship could be a win-win proposition to all stakeholders.

The agenda of the conclave was aimed at facilitating inter-IIT research collaborations to find solutions to challenges that are of societal importance, said Prof. Chandra Shekhar Sharma, dean (sponsored research & consultancy), IITH.

Prof Sharma, who was also the convener, added that the challenges being faced by individual researchers and institutes like delayed receipt of funds and procedural delays in procurement of high-end sophisticated research equipment, were also dwelt deeply during the conclave.

The delegates were unanimous that a common portal showcasing technologies ready for commercialization for better industry connection was a priority.