RS Deputy Chairman Harivansh inaugurates Research centres at IIT Patna

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh on Saturday inaugurated two state-of-the-art research centres at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey. The centres, funded through Harivansh’s MPLADS fund, are dedicated to earthquake engineering research and the preservation of endangered languages.

The Centre for Earthquake Engineering Research (CEER) will serve as a key hub for Bihar and the rest of the country, focusing on disaster-resilient infrastructure research. Bihar’s location in seismic zones IV and V makes this centre crucial for developing earthquake-resistant construction practices. The lab will facilitate full-scale testing of structural components, provide training in earthquake-resistant techniques, and technically empower architects and builders.

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The Centre for Endangered Language Studies (CELS) will focus on documenting, preserving, and revitalizing endangered languages in Bihar and across India. Harivansh emphasized the importance of language research, citing Yuval Noah Harari’s book Sapiens, which highlights the role of languages in humanity’s evolution.

“In today’s era, knowledge is the most powerful tool to transform systems and communities. These two centres will significantly accelerate research and learning in their respective fields,” Harivansh said during the inauguration. He also praised Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for his commitment to the state’s growth and the restoration of its rich cultural and intellectual legacy.

In addition to the two centres at IIT Patna, Harivansh’s MPLADS fund has supported the development of a river research centre at Aryabhatta Knowledge University in Patna. Furthermore, two additional centres have been sanctioned for business incubation and AI research at Chandragupta Institute of Management, Patna, and Magadh University at Bodh Gaya, respectively.