The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) is teaming up with the Indian Army’s Simulator Development Division (SDD) to create an advanced Centre of Excellence (CoE) called VIGRAHA. This name stands for “Virtual, Intelligent, Ground-breaking Research in AR/VR & High-tech Applications.”
VIGRAHA will focus on developing new technologies in areas such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, drones, and unmanned systems. This initiative reflects a growing trend where academic institutions partner with the military to foster innovation.
The MoU was signed by key officials, including Prof. B.S. Murty, the Director of IIT Hyderabad, and Brigadier A.K. Chaturvedi from SDD. “This collaboration shows how academia and the armed forces can work together to enhance defense technologies,” Prof. Murty noted during the signing.
The centre will not just promote research; it plans to offer training programs, internships, and shared access to advanced facilities. This move aligns with India’s goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat, or self-reliance in defense.
Recent statistics show a surge in defense tech investments in India, with a 14% increase in spending over the past year. This reflects a broader pattern worldwide where countries are prioritizing technology to meet modern threats. Additionally, social media conversations about defense innovations indicate strong public interest in how these technologies can improve national security.
Such collaborations are crucial. They create a pipeline for skilled professionals who can contribute to India’s defense sector. Even experts like retired Major General A. K. Singh emphasize that partnerships like these are vital for national security and technological advancement.
For more on India’s defense technology initiatives, you can check the report by the Ministry of Defense.
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AI and robotics,AR/VR research,Atmanirbhar Bharat,Defense Technology,IIT Hyderabad,Indian Army,VIGRAHA