AWANTIPORA: Under the DST’s FIST scheme, the physics and chemistry departments have been awarded a research grant of over 2 crores. The departments had applied in response to the call for proposals, and after rigorous evaluation followed by faculty interaction with expert panels, the research proposals were approved.
Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), congratulated the faculty from the Departments on receiving the prestigious FIST grant from the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. He said that “this recognition underscores IUST's academic excellence and research potential, enabling significant enhancement of scientific infrastructure and capabilities. The grant will empower faculty and students to pursue cutting-edge research, fostering innovation and addressing societal problems.” Prof Romshoo also said that a vibrant research ecosystem is a sine qua non for impactful innovations and discovery of solutions to the pressing issues of the present and the future.
Prof A H Moon, Dean Academic Affairs; Prof Sheikh Javid, Dean of Research; Prof A Wahid, Registrar; and Mr. Sameer Wazir, Finance Officer, also congratulated the departments on the award. The grant provides for the upgradation of research infrastructure, enabling research in emerging and disruptive areas of science and technology. Under the IDP of the IUST, thrust areas have been identified for each department and assigned to interdepartmental research teams to leverage their expertise in diverse fields and realize synergy. Prof Moon added that under a concerted effort and strategic policy, the university has, in a short period of time, bagged over 200 projects valued at over 100 crores. While many have been successfully completed, some are at advanced stages of completion, signaling the commitment of IUST to fostering an environment of innovation and entrepreneurship.
