Has DSIR Re-Certified TN Institute as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation?

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Has DSIR Re-Certified TN Institute as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation?

Synopsis

The re-certification of Sona College of Technology by DSIR highlights its crucial role in India's space missions and its commitment to indigenous innovation. This achievement underscores the institution's excellence in research and development, setting a benchmark in academic performance and faculty dedication.

Key Takeaways

  • Re-certification as a SIRO enhances research capabilities.
  • Sona College has filed 44 patents in three years.
  • Ranked top in NPTEL among over 7,000 colleges.
  • Collaboration with ISRO highlights its innovation.
  • Supported by significant government funding.

New Delhi, June 29 (NationPress) The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) has officially re-certified Sona College of Technology in Tamil Nadu, known for its contributions to ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 and Gaganyaan missions, as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (SIRO), as announced this Sunday.

This SIRO certification allows institutions to engage in scientific and industrial research, promoting the development of indigenous technology, encouraging self-reliance, and reducing dependence on foreign resources.

“This marks the fourth SIRO re-certification for Sona College since 2016, underscoring its ongoing commitment to innovation with 36 active R&D centres, including SonaSPEED,” stated the institute.

In the three-year period starting from 2020, Sona College secured 44 patents from a total of 423 patent applications and has 324 published patents.

Additionally, the institution has gained major recognition for its academic and research excellence, achieving the top faculty performance ranking within the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) among over 7,000 colleges during the January–May 2025 cycle.

NPTEL, India’s foremost technical e-learning platform, is co-managed by the IITs and IISc to enhance faculty development through online courses and certifications provided via the ‘SWAYAM’ platform.

“We take pride in our faculty who have elevated Sona to the pinnacle of national ranking in NPTEL. Their commitment ensures our students receive an education of the highest quality,” expressed Chocko Valliappa, Vice-Chairman of Sona College of Technology.

“Sona College’s dedication to academic excellence is grounded in faculty development through NPTEL and innovation-driven research across our 36 R&D centres, in alignment with national goals for self-reliance,” added Professor Dr. SRR Senthilkumar, Principal.

Last year, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) proposed a grant of Rs 5 crore for the Sona Incubation Foundation (SIF) project, with a 20 percent contribution from Sona College of Technology. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) also endorsed Rs 2 crore as part of the ‘Startup India Seed Fund’ for the incubator.

Point of View

The re-certification of Sona College as a SIRO showcases the institution's unwavering dedication to research and innovation. It aligns with the government's vision for self-reliance and indigenous technological advancements. The achievements of Sona College not only contribute to national pride but also set a precedent for educational institutions across the country.
NationPress
29/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of SIRO certification?
SIRO certification enables institutions to engage in scientific and industrial research, promoting indigenous technology and self-reliance while reducing dependency on foreign resources.
How many patents has Sona College filed?
Sona College filed 423 patent applications and secured 44 patents in the three years starting from 2020.
What is NPTEL?
NPTEL is India's largest technical e-learning platform, enhancing faculty development through online courses and certifications managed by IITs and IISc.
What contributions has Sona College made to ISRO?
Sona College has significantly contributed to ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 and Gaganyaan missions through its innovative research and development efforts.
What funding has Sona College received for its initiatives?
Sona College has received a Rs 5 crore grant from the Department of Science and Technology for the Sona Incubation Foundation project, along with Rs 2 crore from DPIIT as part of the Startup India Seed Fund.