Advanced research centre to replace fire-damaged IT facility at DAVV

Indore: Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya will set up an advanced research centre on its Takshashila campus at Khandwa Road, replacing the IT centre that was severely damaged in a fire a few years ago.The new facility, Centre for Excellence in Research, is expected to be among the university's most modern academic spaces.The centre will be equipped with advanced research instruments worth around Rs 12 crore, aimed at strengthening laboratory-based studies and interdisciplinary work. These instruments will be procured with a grant of Rs 23 crore received by the university, enabling departments to access upgraded infrastructure aligned with current research needs.Students, faculty members and PhD scholars from nearly ten departments will be able to use the facility. The departments include, the School of Biotechnology, School of Computer Science, Life Sciences, Instrumentation, Biochemistry, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Pharmacy and School of Energy among others. Access will be provided to selected researchers, particularly senior faculty and doctoral scholars engaged in active projects.University officials said that the centre was likely to be completed by the end of next month. DAVV vice-chancellor Rakesh Singhai said that equipment procurement would be based on specific requirements submitted by departments, ensuring optimal utilisation of resources.The initiative is expected to improve research output and provide a common platform for collaboration across disciplines. It also marks the revival of a section of the campus that had remained underutilised since the fire incident.In addition to this development, the university is planning further infrastructure expansion on the Takshashila campus. A multi-storey academic building estimated at a cost of Rs 8 crore is expected to begin construction later this year. The proposed structure will include modern facilities along with four to five smart classrooms on each floor and will function as a lecture hall complex.