SMVDU Receives ₹28 Lakh AICTE Grant for Automotive Research Initiative

New Delhi, India Jul 19, 2026 ALN: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) has secured a ₹28 lakh Research Promotion Scheme (RPS) grant from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) for an advanced research project aimed at developing innovative 3D-printed solutions for the automotive sector.

The project, titled "3D Printed Functionally Graded Lattice Structures for Enhanced Energy Absorption and Acoustics for Automotive Applications," will be led by Dr Ankush Raina as Principal Investigator, with Dr Mir Irfan ul Haq as Co-Principal Investigator. This initiative is significant not only for the university but also for the broader automotive industry, which is increasingly looking towards innovative solutions to enhance vehicle performance and safety.

The research will be carried out in collaboration with prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar and the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Kurukshetra, as well as an industry partner. This collaboration is crucial as it combines academic knowledge with practical industry insights, allowing for the development of lightweight structures that improve vehicle safety, reduce noise, and promote sustainable design. Such advancements are particularly relevant in an era where environmental concerns and safety regulations are becoming more stringent.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Pragati Kumar congratulated the research team, describing the AICTE grant as a significant achievement for the university and a reflection of its growing research capabilities. This acknowledgment from the Vice Chancellor highlights the university's commitment to fostering an environment conducive to research and innovation, which is essential for academic institutions aiming to make a mark in the competitive field of engineering and technology.

Dr Ankush Raina, the principal investigator of the project, expressed gratitude towards AICTE for its support and acknowledged the encouragement of the university administration. He stated that the project would advance research in additive manufacturing while providing students and young researchers with opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies with real-world applications. The emphasis on involving students and young researchers is particularly important, as it aligns with the national agenda of promoting skill development and enhancing employability in the engineering sector.

The automotive industry is undergoing a transformative phase, with advancements in technology leading to the development of smarter, safer, and more efficient vehicles. The integration of 3D printing technology into automotive manufacturing is a prime example of this transformation. By utilizing functionally graded lattice structures, the research aims to create components that not only absorb energy effectively during impacts but also contribute to noise reduction within vehicles. This dual focus on safety and comfort is increasingly becoming a priority for manufacturers as consumer expectations evolve.

Furthermore, the implications of this research extend beyond mere academic interest. The automotive sector is a significant contributor to the global economy, and innovations that enhance vehicle performance can lead to increased competitiveness for manufacturers. As countries strive to meet climate goals, the development of lightweight materials that reduce fuel consumption and emissions is critical. Thus, the outcomes of this research could play a pivotal role in supporting national and international efforts towards sustainable automotive practices.

University officials noted that the project marks another milestone in SMVDU's efforts to strengthen research and innovation in engineering while contributing to national priorities in technology, sustainability, and industrial development. The alignment of academic research with national priorities is essential, as it ensures that the outcomes are relevant and can be translated into practical solutions that benefit society at large.

In addition to the immediate benefits of the research project, the collaboration between academic institutions and industry partners is indicative of a growing trend in engineering education. Such partnerships are increasingly seen as essential for fostering innovation, as they allow for the exchange of ideas and resources. The involvement of industry partners in academic research not only enhances the practical relevance of the findings but also facilitates the transition of research outcomes into commercial applications.

The funding from AICTE represents a recognition of the potential impact of this research initiative. AICTE plays a crucial role in promoting quality technical education in India and supports research that aligns with the country's technological and industrial goals. By investing in projects that focus on advanced manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing, AICTE is contributing to the development of a skilled workforce that is equipped to meet the challenges of the future.

As the project progresses, it will be important to monitor its outcomes and the extent to which it contributes to advancements in the automotive sector. The successful implementation of the research findings could lead to significant improvements in vehicle safety and performance, ultimately benefiting consumers and manufacturers alike. Additionally, the project could serve as a model for future research initiatives that seek to address similar challenges in other sectors.

In conclusion, the ₹28 lakh grant awarded to SMVDU for its automotive research initiative is a significant step forward in advancing the field of engineering and technology. The collaboration between academic institutions and industry partners, combined with a focus on sustainable and innovative solutions, positions this project as a valuable contribution to the automotive sector and the broader goals of technological advancement in India. As the research unfolds, it will be crucial to engage with stakeholders across the industry to ensure that the findings are effectively translated into practical applications that can enhance vehicle safety, performance, and sustainability.