The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) have collaborated through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement aims to promote innovation and drive the automotive and electric vehicle (EV) sector.
Together, this partnership intends to launch cutting-edge initiatives, including the setting up of a Centre of Excellence (CoE) and an Industry Accelerator at IIT Roorkee, as part of MHI’s Phase II Scheme for Enhancing Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector. The objective is to leverage the expertise and resources of both institutions. The collaboration will help support innovative projects that will shape the future of transportation.
About this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
With a grant of Rs 19.87 crore from the Ministry of Heavy Industries and an added contribution of Rs 4.78 crore from industry partners, the project’s total cost amounts to Rs 24.66 crore. This joint endeavour aims to drive significant innovation and bridge the gap between academia and industry. The allocated funds will strengthen research, development, and implementation initiatives. Moreover, it will enable the transition of concepts into practical solutions.
Minister of Heavy Industries, Dr Mahendra Nath Pandey, emphasized the progress of new technologies enabled by the Capital Goods Scheme. Also, he highlighted how these initiatives have accelerated the integration of cutting-edge technologies within the manufacturing sector, promoting self-reliance in India.
In addition, he acknowledged the substantial contribution of MHI in driving India towards global export prominence. Also, he praised the proactive steps taken by the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand and IIT Roorkee in advancing this agenda.
As a result of this partnership, several startups have teamed up with IIT-Roorkee. Together, they are pioneering projects in electric vehicles, contributing to the nation’s self-reliance in the e-mobility sector.
In collaboration with IIT Roorkee on this project, the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) in Manesar is a leading facility specializing in testing, certification, and research within the automotive sector. The role of ICAT in the development, validation, and homologation of automotive technologies is critical. ICAT, having advanced infrastructure and expertise, will provide services such as automotive electrical and electronics testing within this project. ICAT leads the way as India shifts towards electric mobility, offering testing and developmental services for EVs.
Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, expressed gratitude to MHI. The approval of projects under the Capital Goods Scheme in Uttarakhand is particularly advantageous for the e-mobility sector. Also, he praised IIT Roorkee for collaborating with various startups and industries, highlighting its dedication to vital projects.
Prof. K.K Pant signed the MoU for IIT Roorkee, and Vijay Mittal JS MHI signed for the Ministry. Apart from senior officials, Dr Mahendra Nath Pandey, Minister of Heavy Industries, and Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand (via VC), attended the event.
