HPU boosts research & innovation

In a major push to strengthen academic excellence and research infrastructure, Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) is gearing up to sign memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with prestigious national and state-level institutions. The announcement was made by Vice-Chancellor Prof Mahavir Singh during a meeting of the Academic Council held on the campus.

Prof Singh revealed that the university has already held discussions with several leading research organisations and formal agreements are expected to be finalised shortly. These collaborations aim to enhance the quality of research and open avenues for innovation across disciplines.

Highlighting academic milestones over the past five years, the Vice-Chancellor noted the successful conduct of numerous seminars, workshops and collaborative events with subject experts. He further emphasised HPU’s ongoing efforts to implement the National Education Policy (NEP), including the introduction of new undergraduate programs aligned with NEP guidelines.

In a significant development, the council approved several proposals to expand research and innovation. Among the key decisions was the establishment of the Himalayan Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience Management, aimed at addressing the unique challenges posed by natural disasters in the hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh. A new center focused on preserving and promoting the rich Pahari cultural heritage was also given the green light.

To foster technological advancement, a Centre for Artificial Intelligence under the Cyber Physical System will be set up, along with a Centre for Green Energy and Nano-Technology. These institutions will serve as hubs for interdisciplinary learning and cutting-edge research.

Curricular reforms were also approved. The MA Journalism and Mass Communication syllabus has been updated, and the Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS) has now been extended to Ph.D. programs in Sociology, Economics, and Social Work.

Another noteworthy change includes renaming the existing Ramanujan Centre for Indian Mathematics to Ramanujan IKS and Indian Mathematics Centre, reflecting a broader integration of traditional knowledge systems.

Furthermore, the council approved the award of degrees to students who successfully completed their programs between July 2018 and April 2025. The HPU has also been granted permission to sign an MoU with the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), DRDO for collaborative work in CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) emergency management.

Himachal Tribune