National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela has achieved a remarkable milestone by being selected as one of the Hub Institutions under the prestigious Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) Programme, launched by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India.
Notably, it is the only NIT in the country and the sole hub institution from Eastern India chosen for this transformative initiative.
Advancing Research and Innovation
The PAIR Programme is designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and accelerate research excellence in emerging institutions through structured mentorship by leading research hubs. Following a rigorous evaluation process, only seven institutions across India were selected from 30 competing proposals, including three IITs, one IISc, two Central Universities, and NIT Rourkela.
Director Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao, along with senior faculty members, spearheaded NIT Rourkela’s proposal, which successfully aligned with the strategic goals of national research development.
The Hub-and-Spoke Model: A Catalyst for Innovation
Under this model, NIT Rourkela will mentor seven institutions, including VSSUT Burla, Sambalpur University, and OUTR Bhubaneswar. The initiative will facilitate research collaborations, shared infrastructure, faculty development, and access to high-end expertise.
Each approved PAIR network is eligible for funding up to ₹100 crore, distributed in a 30:70 ratio between Hub and Spoke institutions over five years. NIT Rourkela’s research initiative will focus on Energy Technologies, Environmental Sustainability, Health & Medical Technologies, and Sustainable Agriculture.
Commitment to National Research Goals
Expressing his thoughts on this selection, Prof. Rao emphasised the program’s potential to uplift emerging institutions, foster innovation, and drive impactful research aligned with India’s vision of a robust and globally competitive research ecosystem.
A dedicated Steering Committee will oversee the initiative’s implementation to ensure maximum research impact.
With this achievement, NIT Rourkela solidifies its position as a pioneer in research mentorship, setting a precedent for transformative education and collaboration in India.
