India is enhancing access to advanced scientific infrastructure, space-related laboratories, and cutting-edge research facilities in universities and institutions to boost innovation-driven learning and technology capabilities among students and researchers. Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized this during his visit to Banaras Hindu University, where he assessed the Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institute (SATHI), a national interdisciplinary research facility supported by the Department of Science & Technology (DST).
Dr. Singh highlighted that the DST is broadening scientific infrastructure and research support systems in universities and higher educational institutions to democratize access to advanced technology, innovation, and scientific facilities nationwide. Various initiatives like SATHI, FIST, ARRF-linked research support mechanisms, and institutional programs are fostering a robust ecosystem for research, innovation, start-ups, and industry-academia collaboration, especially benefiting young researchers, MSMEs, and emerging enterprises.
Moreover, universities and colleges are being linked through space-related laboratories and research programs to promote scientific temper, research-oriented learning, and emerging technology capabilities among students and young researchers. Dr. Singh commended Vice Chancellor Prof A.K. Chaturvedi and the faculty members of BHU for establishing a successful model that can be replicated by other institutions.
He also examined the infrastructure, analytical capabilities, achievements, and future plans of the SATHI facility, along with inspecting various high-end scientific instruments installed there. SATHI-BHU, supported with nearly Rs 72 crore from the DST, operates as a shared scientific infrastructure facility providing advanced instrumentation, analytical services, and technical expertise to academia, research institutions, industries, MSMEs, and start-ups.
Operated as a Section 8 company model within the university ecosystem, the center has become a multidisciplinary analytical and research support hub. It houses advanced technologies such as Super Resolution Confocal Microscopy with Live Cell Imaging, high-end NMR spectroscopy systems, High Resolution Accurate Mass Spectrometry, clean room facilities, chromatography platforms, electrochemical workstations, and isotope analysis systems. These technologies are aiding research in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, semiconductors, life sciences, biotechnology, food sciences, environmental sciences, and advanced materials.
