BITS Pilani receives Rs. 60 crores from DST for establishing advanced research facilities as part of the DST’s SATHI scheme
BITS Pilani, a renowned institution known for its commitment to innovation, is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious SATHI (Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institute) project along with its cluster partners by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. This major achievement comes with a grant of Rs. 60 crores over the next four years, aimed at setting up advanced research facilities at the institute.
Through this funding, BITS Pilani in collaboration with its cluster partners; Council of Scientific And Industrial Research–Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute Pilani, Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, JK Lakshmipat University Jaipur, Vivekananda Global University Jaipur, LNM Institute of Information Technology Jaipur will create a sophisticated instrument facility in Pilani spanning various fields of engineering and sciences, including material sciences, device manufacturing and development, and biopharmaceuticals. This state-of-the-art facility will provide researchers and students in the Rajasthan region and institutions in the country with access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources and will promote innovation and excellence in scientific research.
The selection of BITS Pilani for the SATHI project is a testament to the institution’s commitment to excellence in research and innovation. Out of more than 35 competing institutions, the BITS Pilani faculty team’s compelling proposal stood out, showcasing the institute’s commitment in developing scientific knowledge and technological capabilities.
Expressing his delight at this achievement, Prof Ramgopal Rao, Vice-Chancellor of BITS Pilani said, “I thank the faculty team for putting together a compelling proposal that stood out among over 35 competing institutions. BITS Pilani will strive to participate and lead such national initiatives and help the nation in achieving the dream of Viksit Bharat. We are committed to providing faculty and students in BITS Pilani and institutions in Rajasthan with cutting-edge resources, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and technological advancement.”
The Director Prof Sudhir Kumar Barai, of the Pilani campus where this state of the art facility will be set up said “The selection of BITS Pilani for the SATHI project reflects our institution’s prowess in research and development. This grant will enable us to establish world-class research facilities, furthering our mission to drive innovation and academic excellence. We are excited about the opportunities this project will bring, not only for our faculty and students but also for the broader scientific community and industry partners”.
The SATHI project grant is in line with BITS Pilani’s broader vision of strengthening research infrastructure and fostering industry partnerships. Keeping ambitious targets in mind, the institute aims to achieve Rs. 200 crores per year in sponsored research funding by 2026.
In line with this objective, BITS Pilani will soon establish a dedicated team to facilitate industry engagement and promote mutually beneficial collaboration between academia and industry. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical applications, promoting innovation and economic growth.