Green energy, cyber security & global research: HPU’s new VC charts a bold vision
Professor Mahavir Singh, a distinguished academic and globally recognised scientist in the field of Applied Physics (Material Science), was recently appointed as the 28th Vice-Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh University. Featured among the world’s top 2 per cent scientists in Stanford University’s 2024 rankings, Prof Singh shares his vision and priorities for the university in this exclusive interview with The Tribune:
Himachal Pradesh University has finally appointed a Vice-Chancellor after a three-year gap. What is your vision for the university?
My core expertise lies in green energy and nanotechnology. I aim to bring global recognition to these fields through strategic collaborations with premier institutions like the IITs, Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and Inter University Accelerator Centre (IUAC).
Another priority is disaster management. Given the vulnerability of Himachal Pradesh to natural disasters, I plan to establish a Disaster Management Centre on campus.
The third focus is cyber security. I envision setting up a dedicated Cyber Security Centre to equip students with essential skills in this critical area. These three centres will promote interdepartmental collaboration and transform the university into a hub of multidisciplinary excellence.
HP University’s NIRF ranking hasn’t been very impressive. What steps do you plan to take to improve it?
I acknowledge that the university is facing several challenges regarding NAAC and NIRF rankings. My focus will be on strengthening key parameters such as: Increasing high-quality research publications; encouraging publication in high-impact journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science; promoting innovation and securing patents, especially in science, biotechnology and engineering departments.
Many faculty members have pointed out difficulties in the patent process. I intend to simplify this and support researchers working on path-breaking ideas. Interdisciplinary research will be a key ingredient in our strategy to elevate the university’s academic standing globally.
The university is currently facing a financial crunch. How do you plan to address this?
I’m in regular discussions with our proactive Finance Officer to explore solutions. We are working together to find sustainable ways to strengthen the university’s financial health and avoid such bottlenecks in the future.
The university also has a shortage of space. What is the status of the proposed Ghanahatti campus?
My predecessor laid solid groundwork for expanding the university to Ghanahatti. I will take this forward by holding consultations with the government and applying for grants from various government agencies. The goal is to begin shifting at least a few departments to the new campus in the near future.
What are your plans to bring more grants to the university?
This is a high priority for me. I am constantly encouraging faculty to actively pursue research grants. Our faculty is capable and well-qualified—what’s needed is focused motivation and awareness. We are identifying key thrust areas and working collectively to attract major funding, similar to what premier institutes like the IITs receive.
Himachal Tribune