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RGIPT–CHT MoU to Advance Energy Research, Industry Collaboration and Start-up Development

Jais, Amethi (Uttar Pradesh) : The Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology (RGIPT) has highlighted its recent collaboration with the Centre for High Technology (CHT) as an important step towards linking doctoral research and student innovation with practical challenges in the petroleum, petrochemical and energy sectors.

The five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on 27 October 2026 during the Energy Technology Meet (ETM 2026) in Goa, was exchanged between Shri Sankar Gunasekaran, Executive Director, CHT, and Prof. Harish Hirani, Director, RGIPT, in the presence of Dr Neeraj Mittal, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), and Shri Alok Tripathi, Joint Secretary, MoPNG.

Joint Ph.D. Fellowships to Address Industrial Challenges

A key component of the agreement is the proposed CHT–RGIPT Joint Ph.D. Research Fellowship Programme, which will support doctoral research on challenges identified by the petroleum, petrochemical and energy industries. Up to three scholars may be enrolled annually, with the possibility of increasing the intake to five, subject to the agreed provisions, and a maximum of 10 fellows may be supported at any given time. Selected scholars will receive a fellowship 25% higher than the prevailing CSIR/UGC-NET/GATE fellowship rates, along with other admissible benefits.

The scholars will work under the joint supervision of RGIPT faculty members and experts nominated by CHT or its industry partners. Research areas include green hydrogen, fuel cells, advanced batteries, corrosion engineering, carbon capture and utilisation, crude-to-chemicals, catalysts, biofuels, waste valorisation, digitalisation and energy efficiency. The programme aims to improve the practical relevance of doctoral research and accelerate the translation of scientific findings into useful technologies.

From Research Laboratories to Energy Start-ups

Prof. Harish Hirani, Director, RGIPT, emphasised the importance of encouraging doctoral scholars to pursue patents, prototype development, product creation and start-ups alongside academic publications. The MoU provides a framework to explore how promising research outcomes in its covered areas may progress from laboratory investigations to proof-of-concept validation, prototype development and, where commercially viable, technology-based enterprises.

Through engagement with MC² Foundation and related programmes, the collaboration will explore opportunities for innovation mentoring, sponsored research, technology development and commercialisation, subject to applicable conditions. With appropriate technical guidance and industry engagement, doctoral scholars may consider entrepreneurship alongside careers in academia, research and industry. Such research-led ventures could contribute to indigenous technology development, employment generation and India’s energy innovation ecosystem.

Prof. Hirani also indicated that future discussions may consider how product- and patent-oriented outcomes could be recognised in doctoral assessment. No changes to the existing Ph.D. requirements have been finalised. Dr. Arshad Aijaz, Dean, Academic Affairs, noted that the possibility of recognising patents, innovative products and commercially viable technologies as doctoral outcomes remains under deliberation and has not been adopted as academic policy.

Student Innovation: From Industrial Problems to Practical Solutions

Highlighting RGIPT’s Design and Innovation Project initiative, Prof. Hirani explained that student teams work on real-world industrial problems and develop potential solutions through project-based learning. Approximately 250 problem statements were identified, involving 115 students, with initial financial support of ₹10,000 per team. Promising projects may receive additional support and opportunities to pitch their ideas to incubation partners, helping promising concepts move towards practical applications and potential start-ups.

Dr. Milan Kumar, Dean of Research and Development, highlighted opportunities for innovation mentoring and prospective funding support through the MC² Foundation and related programmes, subject to their applicable conditions. The broader aim is to nurture a culture in which students and researchers are encouraged to identify problems, test ideas, develop prototypes and explore pathways to technology transfer and enterprise creation.

Testing Facilities, Sponsored Research and Industry Engagement

The MoU envisages the joint establishment of testing facilities at RGIPT campuses to address technological challenges faced by the petroleum and energy industries. The facilities are expected to strengthen experimental capabilities, support technology validation and enable collaborative research. Both organisations will explore long-term industry-sponsored research projects aligned with operational requirements and emerging technological needs.

RGIPT is also working to strengthen its central instrumentation facilities, improve equipment availability and maintenance, and broaden engagement with research institutions, including CSIR laboratories. These efforts are intended to expand access to scientific expertise and research facilities and help technologies progress beyond proof of concept towards validation, pilot-scale demonstration and potential industrial adoption.

Capacity Building and Energy Policy

RGIPT and CHT will jointly organise national and international training programmes in collaboration with Indian refineries. The programmes will cover petroleum refining, petrochemicals, asset integrity, process safety, green hydrogen, digital technologies, energy transition and sustainable energy systems, strengthening knowledge exchange between academic experts and industry professionals.

RGIPT will also participate in CHT’s Activity Committee Meetings to gain insights into operational challenges faced by refineries and identify opportunities for research-based solutions. The two organisations further plan to establish an energy think tank to support policy formulation and strategic thinking in the petroleum and energy sectors.

Strengthening India’s Energy Future

RGIPT is an Institution of National Importance under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, engaged in education, research and technology development across conventional and emerging energy domains. CHT serves as a dedicated technology cell of the Ministry for the hydrocarbon sector.

By bringing together doctoral research, student innovation, industry expertise, testing infrastructure, specialised training and pathways for start-up development, the collaboration aims to strengthen the link between knowledge creation and practical application. The partnership is expected to promote indigenous technology development, support energy sustainability and create opportunities for young researchers to become innovators, technology developers, and entrepreneurs—contributing to India’s energy security, technological self-reliance, and sustainable energy transition.


 

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Daily Astro

02-11-2026

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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02-11-2026