Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhilai has marked a significant academic achievement, with five of its faculty members being awarded the prestigious Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG) for the year 2025–26. The grant, instituted by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India, aims to support early-career researchers engaged in cutting-edge research and development (R&D) in science and technology.

The faculty members who have received this highly competitive grant include Dr. Krishna Murari (Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering), Dr. Katchala Nanaji (Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry and Adjunct Faculty, Department of Electrical Engineering), Dr. Saikat Sahoo (Assistant Professor, Department of Mechatronics), Dr. Nithin B (Assistant Professor, Department of Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering), and Dr. Avijit Saha (Assistant Professor, Department of Physics).

The Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG) is awarded for a period of three years and provides flexible funding support to foster innovation, strengthen research capabilities, and build a robust scientific ecosystem in the country.

Dr. Krishna Murari’s project titled “Advanced Computation and Distributed Control Framework for Hybrid Alternating Current–Direct Current (AC–DC) Distribution Networks” focuses on developing an advanced framework for the analysis, optimisation, and control of hybrid power distribution systems.

Dr. Katchala Nanaji’s research project, “Integrating Ball-Milled Nano Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate (LMFP) with Dry Electrode Technology to Establish a Scalable Route for High-Voltage, Sustainable Lithium-Ion Battery Manufacturing,” aims to develop a scalable synthesis route for nano-LMFP cathode materials, followed by dry electrode fabrication for next-generation lithium-ion batteries.

Dr. Saikat Sahoo’s project, “Development of a Hybrid Back-Support Exoskeleton to Prevent Injury and Enhance Efficiency in Terraced Farming,” is focused on designing a novel wearable exoskeleton integrating both active and passive mechanisms to support farmers working in physically demanding environments.

Dr. Nithin B’s research on “Development of Advanced Multi-Phase Structural Alloys for Enhanced High Temperature Performance and Hydrogen Embrittlement Resistance” involves the use of computational alloy design and microstructure engineering to develop advanced materials capable of safely trapping hydrogen and preventing hydrogen embrittlement. The project aligns with India’s National Hydrogen Mission and contributes towards building a safe and reliable hydrogen infrastructure.

Dr. Avijit Saha’s work, “Eco-Friendly Quantum Nanomaterial Emitters for Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and Bioimaging (ECO-SWIR),” aims to develop environmentally sustainable quantum dots for applications in shortwave infrared optoelectronics and biomedical imaging.

This recognition is expected to significantly strengthen IIT Bhilai’s research ecosystem and enable faculty members to advance high-impact scientific work. The institute has extended its congratulations to all the awardees, acknowledging their contribution to advancing innovation and research excellence in the country.

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