NIT Rourkela has secured Rs 1.82 crore for two new research projects. The Ministry of Education’s Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration (SPARC) provides the funding. Each project will run for a period of two years. These initiatives aim to foster global research partnerships and address key societal challenges.
Promoting Global Research Collaboration
The SPARC scheme supports academic and research exchanges. It connects Indian institutions with top international universities. This initiative enhances research capacity. It promotes collaboration on projects with significant societal impact. NIT Rourkela’s selection highlights its growing engagement in international research endeavors. The institute focuses on applied research outcomes.
Smart Exoskeletons for Healthcare
One project, titled “Smart Exoskeletons in Healthcare: Principle and Practices for Developing Scalable Exosuits for Rural Applications,” received Rs 95.16 lakh. This funding supports a two-year research period. Professor Anup Nandy leads the project. He is an associate professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Professor Ratnakar Dash serves as co-principal investigator. The project involves international collaboration. Researchers from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, USA, are partners.
The research focuses on developing wearable robotic exoskeletons. These devices aim to be both affordable and scalable. They target assistance for specific patient groups. Elderly individuals will benefit. Post-stroke patients are also a key focus. The project prioritizes application in rural and clinical healthcare settings. The goal is to create user-friendly exosuits. These exosuits will improve mobility and aid recovery. This initiative addresses the need for accessible assistive technology in underserved areas.
Advanced Technology for Agri-Food Systems
The second project is named “Novel Disruptive Technology: Design and Development of Smart and Sustainable Technology for Agri-Food Systems.” It received Rs 87.24 lakh. This project also spans a two-year duration. Professor Madhuresh Dwivedi leads this initiative. He is an associate professor in the Department of Food Process Engineering. Professor Rama Chandra Pradhan acts as co-principal investigator. This project features strong international partnerships. Collaborators include researchers from the University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada. The British Columbia Institute of Technology also participates.
This research aims to develop non-destructive sensing technology. The technology will assess the quality of agri-food products. It will also evaluate food safety in real time. The method will be rapid and efficient. Potential benefits include improved food safety standards. It also seeks to reduce food wastage. The technology will support various stakeholders. This includes farmers, food processors, and consumers. The project contributes to more sustainable and secure agri-food supply chains. It offers innovative solutions for critical food system challenges.
Institute’s Focus on Impactful Research
NIT Rourkela stated both projects demonstrate its expanding international research engagement. The institute emphasizes application-oriented research. This research aims for meaningful societal impact. The initiatives align with national priorities. They also address global challenges in health and food security. These projects reinforce NIT Rourkela’s position. It stands as a contributor to global scientific advancements.