Virtual, Intelligent, Ground‑breaking Research in AR/VR & High‑Tech Applications
A Centre of Excellence at IIT Hyderabad, in collaboration with the Indian Army’s Simulator Development Division (ARTRAC), advancing research and innovation in AR/VR, AI, robotics, drones, and related defense technologies.
About the initiative
VIGRAHA is a joint initiative between IIT Hyderabad and the Indian Army’s Simulator Development Division (SDD), under Army Training Command (ARTRAC). It aims to accelerate defense‑technology R&D and capability building across immersive systems and intelligent platforms.
- Joint academic programmes, research projects, and innovation initiatives
- Capacity building: training and certification in emerging technologies
- Internship opportunities and reciprocal access to facilities
- Incubation and technology translation aligned to Army priorities
MoU and launch coverage
Reported August 30–31, 2025 in national and education media. Official pages forthcoming.
Focus areas
Augmented & Virtual Reality
Immersive systems for training, simulation, and battlefield visualization.
Artificial Intelligence
Perception, decision support, and autonomy for defense applications.
Robotics
Man‑machine teaming and field‑ready robotic platforms.
Drones & Unmanned Systems
UAS/UxS for reconnaissance, logistics, and mission support.
Simulation & Training
High‑fidelity simulators and competency‑based training modules.
Human‑System Integration
Interfaces, sensors, and ergonomics for mission‑critical use.
Collaboration
IIT Hyderabad × Indian Army (SDD/ARTRAC)
The collaboration brings together academic research strengths and operational defense priorities to co‑create deployable technologies.
- CoE Lead at IIT Hyderabad is Dr. Shiva Ji (PI).
- Contact: shivaji@des.iith.ac.in https://people.iith.ac.in/shivaji/
Programs and access
- Training and certification in emerging tech areas
- Student internships at SDD and joint labs usage
- Incubation and innovation aligned to Army needs
Note: For official calls, eligibility, or contacts, refer to IIT Hyderabad/PIB announcements (see Resources).
Programs & Opportunities
Initial reports indicate opportunities for joint academic programmes, internships, training and certifications, and shared facilities. Detailed application processes and timelines will be provided via official channels.
- Students: watch for internship/training calls from IITH and SDD
- Researchers: look for CoE‑linked R&D themes and proposals
- Startups: track incubation/translation programs aligned to defense
Resources & Coverage
Updates
- IIT Hyderabad — Instagram post (login may be required)
Looking for: official IIT Hyderabad press note and PIB release. Share links to include here.