BITS Pilani gets Rs 60 crore from DST to set up advanced research facility under SATHI scheme

NEW DELHI: The Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani (BITS Pilani) has been awarded the SATHI project by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The institute will receive a sum of Rs 60 crore over the next four years, to establish an advanced research facility at the institute.

The Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institute (SATHI) project aims to enhance research capabilities in Rajasthan by providing access to advanced equipment and resources. The new facility will be located in Pilani and will cater to various fields of engineering and sciences, including material sciences, device manufacturing and development, and biopharmaceuticals, the institute said.

The institute aims to achieve Rs 200 crore per year in sponsored research funding by 2026. Additionally, a dedicated team will be established to facilitate industry engagement and promote collaborative research endeavours, bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications for economic growth, the institute said in a statement.

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BITS Pilani to collaborate with other institutes

As per the official press release, BITS Pilani will collaborate with its cluster partners including the 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 to create the instrument facility in Pilani for various fields of engineering and sciences.

Speaking about the funds, the vice-chancellor of BITS Pilani, Ramgopal Rao, said: “I thank the faculty team for putting together a compelling proposal that stood out among over 35 competing institutions. We are committed to providing cutting-edge resources and fostering a culture of scientific advancement for the benefit of our faculty, students, and the broader scientific community.”

The director of the Pilani campus, Sudhir Kumar Barai, said: "This grant will enable us to establish world-class research facilities, propelling us further in our pursuit of innovation and academic excellence. We are confident that this project will not only benefit our internal stakeholders but also contribute to the wider scientific and industrial landscape."