In a major initiative to strengthen research, innovation, and technology transfer, the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) and Doon University, Dehradun, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) today at Raj Bhawan, Dehradun. The agreement marks a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing the innovation ecosystem in Uttarakhand. The signing ceremony was graced by Hon’ble Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh, who emphasized its alignment with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

This partnership is NRDC’s first formal engagement with a state university in Uttarakhand, setting a benchmark for future academia-industry alliances. The Governor highlighted the need for universities to evolve beyond traditional teaching and become centers of translational research and innovation. “This collaboration will safeguard intellectual property and convert research into economic assets, benefitting students, faculty, and the state,” he said.

Cmde Amit Rastogi (Retd.), Chairman and Managing Director of NRDC, reaffirmed the organization’s support in areas such as patent filing, technology transfer, and commercialization. “We aim to close the gap between academic research and industrial application, fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem at Doon University,” he said.

Prof. Surekha Dangwal, Vice Chancellor of Doon University, said the university is transitioning toward IP-driven research across its core disciplines, including the Schools of Environment & Natural Resources, Design, and Science. “This partnership will enhance our capabilities in securing patents, registering trademarks, and translating research into marketable technologies,” she stated, emphasizing the university’s commitment to contributing to the state’s knowledge-based economy.

The MoA signing event was attended by key officials including Shri Ravinath Raman, IAS (Secretary to the Governor); Smt. Reena Joshi, IAS (Additional Secretary); Mr. N.G. Lakshminarayan (DGM, NRDC); Dr. Arun Kumar (Director, R&D Cell, Doon University); Smt. Smriti Khanduri (Finance Controller); Shri Durgesh Dimri (Registrar); deans, faculty members, research scholars, and members of the media.

This collaboration is expected to improve research outcomes, promote startup creation, and enhance synergy between academia and industry. It also sets the stage for other universities in the state to pursue similar partnerships, reinforcing Uttarakhand’s position as a rising innovation hub.