Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that science, technology and innovation are being given renewed impetus under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He said the Madhya Pradesh Government is committed to advancing this vision by strengthening research and innovation across sectors.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said IISER Bhopal has been provided a new campus, modern laboratories and an Innovation Park at a cost of ₹485 crore. He was addressing the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the extended campus of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal, named Advanced Technology and Research Innovation (ATRI). The Chief Minister unveiled the foundation stone at the site of the new campus and commenced construction work. He also planted banyan and peepal saplings. The Chief Minister unveiled a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the main IISER campus, paid floral tributes and visited an exhibition showcasing the institute’s academic achievements and research activities.
MLA Shri Rameshwar Sharma, faculty members, officers, employees and students of the institute were present.
IISER Bhopal Carries Forward India’s Knowledge Tradition
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said India has a long-standing tradition of knowledge and scientific inquiry aimed at human welfare. He said the seven IISERs established in the country are carrying this legacy forward through modern science and education.
Referring to India’s intellectual traditions, the Chief Minister said that the pursuit of knowledge has long been rooted in the ideals of social welfare and human development. He added that IISER Bhopal is contributing to this legacy through contemporary scientific research and innovation.
Swami Vivekananda’s Legacy Inspires Students
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said Swami Vivekananda played a significant role in taking India’s rich cultural heritage to the world. He described the installation of his statue at IISER Bhopal as a commendable initiative. He called upon students and researchers to contribute to human welfare through scientific knowledge and innovation. He also highlighted the links between India’s philosophical traditions and the pursuit of scientific knowledge, noting the growing scope of fields such as biotechnology.
52-Acre ATRI Campus to Focus on Five Emerging Technology Areas
The state government has allotted 52 acres of land to IISER Bhopal for developing the extended Advanced Technology and Research Innovation (ATRI) campus.
The campus will focus on five emerging areas of national importance: Quantum and Advanced Materials, Drone Technology, Sustainable Systems and Technology, Medical Devices and Diagnostics and AI and Robotics
The five technology verticals will support advanced technology development, practical applications, research and skill development, providing students and researchers opportunities to work in emerging fields. The campus will also expand IISER Bhopal’s research and innovation infrastructure. IISER Bhopal is an Institution of National Importance established under an Act of Parliament and functions under the Union Ministry of Education.
ATRI Campus, Vivekananda Statue Significant Milestones: NITI Aayog Member
NITI Aayog Member Shri Govardhan Das said the foundation stone-laying of the extended campus and unveiling of Swami Vivekananda’s statue, with the guidance and support of Chief Minister Dr. Yadav, mark important milestones in IISER Bhopal’s development. He said the statue would inspire students towards youthful energy, nation-building and excellence. He added that IISER Bhopal aims to provide quality education and research opportunities while developing students as responsible citizens. Students of the institute are demonstrating their talent at reputed academic and research institutions in India and abroad.
IISER Bhopal Builds Distinct Identity in 18 Years
IISER Bhopal’s officiating Director Shri Raghuveer Singh Tomar said the institute has established a distinct identity in education, science and innovation. Established in 2008, IISER Bhopal has made significant contributions over the past 18 years in science, engineering, humanities and social sciences.