Chandigarh: The sophisticated analytical instrumentation facility (SAIF/CIL) at Panjab University has received Rs 1 crore for implementing artificial intelligence (AI). The grant was given by the Vardhman Industrial Group as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) and was presented to PU vice-chancellor Prof Renu Vig.According to Prof Gaurav Verma, director of SAIF/CIL, plans are in place to integrate materials manufacturing capabilities with AI-driven analytical tools. The concept was presented to industries, with S P Oswal, chairman of the Vardhman Group, being the first to contribute CSR funds for enhancing these analytical capabilities for industrial applications.The transfer of funds to SAIF/CIL was facilitated by Amit Jain, head of CSR and AVP corporate projects at Vardhman, who expressed optimism about additional industrial establishments supporting this innovative initiative.SAIF/CIL at PU is dedicated to establishing an enabling environment for industrial product development, in accordance with the national vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. The centre features an established laboratory providing precise advanced analysis of materials and manufactured products. It is currently developing international-standard capabilities to examine technologies used in creating new manufacturing materials, including their metrology and quality control.

The initiative aims to support manufacturing units, encourage startups, and promote entrepreneurship by utilising the substantial analytical and testing data generated through SAIF/CIL's various facilities. This data will be processed and enhanced using AI to expedite the development of new materials and products through advanced prototyping and design.SAIF/CIL will also concentrate on developing human resources by training scientists, technologists, and engineers through organised full-time and part-time internships and training programmes to maintain and expand these initiatives.