Srinagar, Dec 12: The National Institutes of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has joined hands with NIT Agartala Tripura to explore the uncharted depths of Dal Lake, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced sensory technology.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Sudhakar Yedla, and Director NIT Agartala Tripura, Prof. Sarat Kumar Patra.
The research collaboration is aimed at harnessing the power of AI algorithms and cutting-edge sensory devices to create a comprehensive understanding of Dal Lake’s ecosystem.
The MoU ceremony was attended by In-charge- Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rahman, Dr. Ashim, (CSE), NIT Agartala, Dr. Ranjeet Kumar Rout (CSE) NIT Srinagar, and other faculty members from the Metallurgical & Materials Engineering department.
In his address, Director NIT, Prof. Yedla, highlighted the transformative potential of this collaborative venture, emphasizing its role in unlocking opportunities for joint research initiatives.
“The primary focus of this collaboration will be on designing, prototyping, and producing hardware and software for sustainable agriculture. The signing of the MoU is crucial for fostering collaboration and will serve as a bridge between the two institutions,” he said.
He said that this MoU encompasses key areas such as AI-based agriculture, Agri-robotics, water quality monitoring, and conservation, signaling a commitment to addressing pressing challenges in these vital domains.
“The Jammu and Kashmir Government aims to comprehensively monitor Dal Lake extensively and dynamically, and we aspire to contribute to this goal,” The Director NIT Srinagar said.
He extended thanks to the NIT Agartala team, led by Prof. Sarat Kumar Patra, for their invaluable contributions to the signing of the MoU.
Prof. Yedla specifically acknowledged the proactive involvement of the Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) department of NIT Agartala, recognizing their pivotal role in actively participating and joining hands with NIT Srinagar to propel this collaborative endeavor forward.
On the occasion, Director NIT Agartala, Prof. SK Patra, expressed his enthusiasm for the historic collaboration as both institutions formally signed a vital scientific collaboration aimed at advancing research on water and soil resources.
“Today marks a great day for both institutions to embark on historic research concerning water and soil resources. Srinagar, with its vast Dal Lake, presents a crucial area for monitoring and research.
Similarly, Tripura boasts a significant number of lakes, making research in these water bodies and the agriculture sector equally vital,” he said.
The Director of NIT Agartala emphasized that the ultimate goal of this research collaboration is the development of society.
“I am optimistic that this collaboration will progress in a significant way, resulting in joint PhDs and impactful work that brings tangible benefits to society,” he stated, reflecting a commitment to generating meaningful outcomes for the betterment of communities through collaborative research efforts.
Prof. Patra said the intriguing aspect of this research is its application to both water and plants. The technology employed lies within the realm of computer science, making it a truly interdisciplinary endeavor.
“Involving experts from diverse fields ensures that the research directly contributes to society, benefiting our communities,” he said.
Prof. Patra also stated that the ultimate goal of research is the development of society. “I am optimistic that this collaboration will progress in a significant way, resulting in joint PhDs and impactful work that brings tangible benefits to society,” the Director said.
As per MoU, the pivotal aspect of this collaboration is the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) systems in Agriculture and water, aimed at achieving sustainable use and rejuvenation of natural resources through automation and robotics.
The partnership further extends to research, education, policy inputs, and outreach for the development and dissemination of efficient technologies.
NIT Srinagar will provide access to its state-of-the-art research facilities, laboratories, and equipment. It will also assign qualified faculty and staff to actively participate in the joint research project, sharing research data, findings, and collaborating in joint workshops, seminars, and conferences on the research area.
NIT Srinagar will assist NIT Agartala in the dissemination of research findings, joint Ph.D. supervision, publications, and the exchange of research.
In reciprocity, NIT Agartala will offer access to its research facilities, laboratories, and equipment. The institution will assign qualified faculty and staff to contribute to the joint research project, sharing research data and findings with NIT Srinagar.
The institution will also participate in joint workshops, seminars, and conferences, as well as assist in the dissemination of research findings and joint Ph.D. supervision, publications, and the exchange of research.
The Coordination Committee responsible for executing, monitoring, and reviewing this collaborative program includes Dean (Research & Consultancy), NIT Srinagar or nominee(s), Dean (Research & Consultancy), NIT Agartala or nominee(s), Chairman IICe and Startup/Associate Dean, NIT Agartala or nominee(s), and Dr. Ranjeet Kumar Rout, Assistant Professor, CSE NIT Srinagar.
The initiative harnesses the power of AI algorithms and cutting-edge sensory devices to create a comprehensive understanding of the Dal Lake’s ecosystem.
Researchers from both NITs are deploying state-of-the-art underwater sensors and autonomous vehicles equipped with AI capabilities to collect and analyze data.
