HPU Secures ₹10.23 Crore Grant to Enhance Research Capabilities

Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) has been awarded a grant of ₹10.23 crore to significantly bolster its research capabilities. This funding, provided by the Central government under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation’s (ANRF) Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) programme, will enable HPU to acquire advanced scientific instruments valued at ₹6.78 crore.

The planned acquisitions include a Lakeshore Vibrating Sample Magnetometer, Radiant’s LCII Ferroelectric Test System, a 1260A Impedance Analyser, and several other sophisticated tools. These instruments are set to substantially enhance the university’s materials research capabilities, facilitating precise material characterisation and accelerating experimental research.

Strengthening Research and Collaboration

According to HPU’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Mahavir Singh, the new facility will not only improve research output but also assist scholars in publishing their work in esteemed international journals. He expressed optimism about the potential for increased collaborations both nationally and globally. “This initiative will also foster collaborations at both national and international levels,” said Prof Singh.

The project will be led by Prof Mahavir Singh in collaboration with Dr Ramesh Thakur, who serves as the Principal Investigator. Co-investigators include Dr Sandeep Chauhan, Dr Balbir Singh Patial, Dr Ravi Kant Bhatia, and Dr Manish Kumar. The team will receive mentorship from Prof Nagesh Thakur and Prof NS Negi.

HPU plans to collaborate with IIT Ropar and other institutions as part of this initiative. Prof Singh highlighted that this grant represents a paradigm shift for HPU, aiming to enhance its research ecosystem, improve its academic rankings, and boost accreditation efforts.

As the university gears up for this exciting phase, the commitment to fostering a robust research environment underscores HPU’s ambition to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancement.