Alumnus’s son pledges 15cr to IIT-Kgp to launch AI centre for mining solutions

Kolkata: IIT-Kharagpur is set to establish an interdisciplinary research initiative aimed at advancing data-driven innovation in the mining sector, named Vikram Sodhi Centre of Excellence for AI-Enabled Geological & Mining Systems, with a funding commitment of Rs 15 crore over five years from Vikram Sodhi, vice chairman of Mineros SA and managing partner of Sun Valley Investments. Vikram is the son of distinguished alumnus Col Manjeet Sodhi, who completed his MTech in Radar Systems Engineering in 1977.The name of the centre is in recognition of the Sodhi family's longstanding association with IIT Kharagpur and reflects both a legacy of association and a continued commitment to advancing research and innovation. An MoU was signed on Friday. "The establishment this centre marks a strengthening of IIT Kharagpur's interdisciplinary research ecosystem. In the institute's Platinum Jubilee year, this initiative reflects the institute's leadership in advancing collaborative, application-driven research. By integrating geological sciences, mining engineering and AI, the Centre is well positioned to address national challenges through cross-disciplinary engagement," said director Suman Chakraborty.Sodhi said, "This Centre will create an enduring institution built on the strength of its research and intellectual contributions. Its purpose is to create lasting value through application-oriented work that advances the mining sector."Get real-time updates and result insights on the CBSE 12 Result 2026.