NIT Rourkela Crosses 100 Patents, Becomes Innovation Leader

The National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela) has achieved a major milestone by surpassing 100 granted patents , reflecting its growing research and innovation capabilities. To date, the institute has filed 230 patents 218 national and 12 international with 101 patents granted (97 national and 4 international).

The granted patents cover diverse domains including AI-based vehicular systems, autonomous drones, industrial waste treatment, health-monitoring IoT devices, sustainable food packaging, and advanced materials from waste resources . In 2025 alone, 23 patents were granted , signaling a steady upward trajectory in the institute’s intellectual property portfolio.

Speaking on the achievement, Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao, Director, NIT Rourkela , said, “Surpassing 100 patents marks a landmark in fostering a strong culture of research and innovation. With 91 patent applications filed in 2025, we aim to double the number of granted patents in the coming year, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 .”

The institute’s Centre for Intellectual Property Rights (CIPR) supports faculty and students in all aspects of patent development, from filing to licensing, technology transfer, and industry collaboration. Initiatives like “One scholar, one patent” have encouraged research scholars to actively participate in IP creation.

Looking ahead, NIT Rourkela plans to expand industry partnerships, increase international patent filings, and promote technology transfer for societal and industrial impact. This milestone aligns with national priorities such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India , fostering indigenous innovation, industrial competitiveness, and sustainable technological growth.