IIT(ISM) Inks MoU for Centre of Excellence in Fluid Testing
On December 1, 2025, the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad, commonly referred to as IIT(ISM), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Minimac Systems, a Pune-based company. This collaboration aims to establish a Centre of Excellence in Fluid Testing and Analytics on the IIT(ISM) campus, marking a significant step towards enhancing industry-academia collaboration in India.
Objectives of the Centre
The Centre of Excellence is fully funded by Minimac Systems and is set to be the first specialized facility of its kind in eastern India. The primary objectives of the centre include:
- Advancing applied research in fluid engineering.
- Enhancing industrial skilling in fluid testing and analytics.
- Developing predictive maintenance technologies that are crucial for various sectors.
Significance of the Collaboration
This collaboration represents a new phase in IIT(ISM)’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its engagement with the industry, particularly in the domains of fluid engineering, oil analytics, and intelligent maintenance systems. These areas are becoming increasingly essential across manufacturing, mining, and energy sectors, which are vital for India’s economic growth.
Key Figures Present at the Signing Ceremony
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by several key figures from both institutions:
- Sukumar Mishra – Director, IIT(ISM)
- Parthasarathi Das – Dean (Research and Development), IIT(ISM)
- Ajit Kumar – Centre Coordinator, IIT(ISM)
- Niranjan Kumar – Co-Coordinator, IIT(ISM)
- Anshuman Agrawal – Managing Director, Minimac Systems
- Harshit Agrawal – Head of Digital Transformation & Engineering, Minimac Systems
Statements from IIT(ISM) Leadership
During the ceremony, Director Sukumar Mishra emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “This collaboration aligns with the institute’s long-term vision of expanding high-impact, industry-linked research. The new Centre of Excellence will allow our students and faculty to engage with real-world industrial challenges while contributing to innovation in fluid engineering and predictive maintenance.”
Focus Areas of the Centre
The Centre of Excellence will concentrate on several critical areas:
- Product Validation: Ensuring that products meet required standards and specifications.
- Prototype Development: Creating initial models of products for testing and refinement.
- Data-Driven Research: Utilizing data analytics to enhance hydraulic and lubrication systems.
- Technology Development: Collaborating with Minimac’s ongoing research and development initiatives.
Opportunities for Students
The partnership will also create numerous opportunities for students at IIT(ISM). Structured internship programs and a Campus Ambassador initiative will be implemented to facilitate skill-building opportunities. This hands-on experience is expected to enhance the employability of students by providing them with practical knowledge and exposure to industry standards.
Funding and Support
Both IIT(ISM) and Minimac Systems plan to explore various central and state research and development grants and schemes to support the centre’s infrastructure and long-term operations. Potential funding sources include:
- Department of Science and Technology (DST)
- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
- Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME)
Impact on India’s Technological Landscape
Officials from both institutions believe that the Centre of Excellence will significantly enhance India’s capabilities in fluid testing, diagnostics, and smart maintenance technologies. This initiative is expected to reinforce IIT(ISM) Dhanbad’s growing national footprint in interdisciplinary research and innovation.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Fluid Testing at IIT(ISM) Dhanbad represents a pivotal moment in the collaboration between academia and industry. By focusing on practical applications and research in fluid engineering, this initiative aims to address real-world challenges and contribute to India’s technological advancement.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest available data as of December 2025.
