IIT Kharagpur launches of school of digital learning, applied AI, machine learning
Kolkata, March 3, 2026 – The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT KGP) has officially launched a new initiative aimed at transforming the landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) education and research. The newly established School of Digital Learning, Applied AI, and Machine Learning is designed to redefine how AI innovations are conceived, translated, and deployed across various sectors.
Overview of the Initiative
The school is envisioned as a fully integrated, horizontal applied AI engine that spans all academic and industrial verticals. It will operate under the Office of the Dean for Research and Development, marking a significant shift from traditional degree-oriented structures toward a high-impact, translational deep-tech model. This model emphasizes collaboration between industry and academia.
Funding and Support
The initiative is backed by a generous philanthropic commitment from Dr. Jyoti Chatterjee, an alumnus of IIT KGP (BTech 1977), who has pledged up to USD 5 million over five years through the IIT KGP Foundation USA. The funding framework includes an initial commitment of USD 1 million upon the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), followed by structured annual gap funding that could total up to USD 5 million.
Innovative Structure
Unlike conventional AI departments, the Jyoti Chatterjee School of Digital Engineering, Applied AI, and Machine Learning is designed as an innovation accelerator. It will be embedded within a live multidisciplinary ecosystem that integrates digital engineering, next-generation computing, artificial intelligence, and deep neural systems.
Focus on Healthcare
In the healthcare domain, the school plans to leverage its integration with the School of Medical Science and Technology (SMST), the Common Research and Technology Development Hub (CRTDH) on Healthcare, and the clinical ecosystem of the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee Super Specialty Hospital. This collaboration aims to enable real-world validation of AI-driven systems, transitioning from laboratory prototypes to field deployment.
Operational Framework
The school will operate directly under the Dean of Research and Development. Its primary objectives include:
- Establishing industry-hosted laboratories and AI testbeds.
- Enabling co-development platforms with industry and government.
- Fostering a collaborative environment for research and development.
Leadership Vision
Professor Suman Chakraborty, the Director of IIT Kharagpur, emphasized that the new school represents a structural shift in how applied AI is institutionalized. He stated, “This is a unique horizontal, research-driven applied intelligence architecture embedded within the framework of our end-to-end R&D ecosystem – designed to move from code to clinic, prototype to product, and research to national capability.”
Goals and Aspirations
The Jyoti Chatterjee School is positioned to serve as a convergence platform where industry, academia, and government can co-create sovereign AI solutions tailored for India and the global market. The institute aims to establish IIT Kharagpur as a lighthouse institution for responsible, ethical, and sovereign AI, aligning with India’s technological self-reliance mission. This initiative is expected to foster indigenous capabilities across various sectors, including:
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Infrastructure
- Energy
- Smart systems
Conclusion
The launch of the School of Digital Learning, Applied AI, and Machine Learning at IIT Kharagpur marks a significant milestone in the advancement of AI and ML education and research in India. By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, the school aims to create innovative solutions that address real-world challenges while promoting ethical and responsible AI practices.
Note: This article is based on information available as of March 3, 2026, and aims to provide an overview of the newly launched school at IIT Kharagpur.
