The International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIITH), and the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli (NIFTEM-K), have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote research and innovation in food technology. The partnership aims to integrate technological advancements with food science to strengthen India’s rapidly expanding food processing sector, which is projected to reach US$535 billion by FY 2025–26.
Key Focus Areas: AI, Blockchain, Robotics, and Sensing
The MoU outlines collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, computer vision, sensors, drones, and robotics. The joint initiatives will focus on:
- Developing computer vision-based systems for grading agricultural produce
- Enhancing food traceability and authenticity using blockchain technology
- Creating bio-sensors to detect adulteration and counterfeit products
- Applying AI and machine learning for large-scale sensor data analysis
Joint Research and Technology Development
The agreement was formalized during the visit of Prof. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director, NIFTEM-K, and Prof. Vinkel Kumar Arora to IIIT Hyderabad. From IIITH, faculty members including Prof. Tapan Kumar Sau, Prof. Ashok Kumar Das, Prof. Sujit Gujar, Prof. Zia Abbas, and Prof. Abhishek Srivastava presented their ongoing research on bio-sensors, blockchain, and RF sensing technologies. During the discussions, both institutions identified several potential areas for joint research projects and collaborative technology development.
The partnership also includes initiatives for skill development, training, and academic collaboration. Both institutions plan to organise joint workshops, seminars, training programmes, and conferences focusing on food science, post-harvest management, food engineering, and food business management.
The MoU also emphasises student engagement through internships, placements, and joint certification programmes both online and offline to strengthen skills in emerging domains of food technology and digital innovation.
Leaders Emphasise the Value of the Partnership
Prof. Sandeep K. Shukla, Director of IIIT Hyderabad, stated that the collaboration reflects the institute’s commitment to addressing real world challenges through technology. He emphasized that working with NIFTEM-K would enable the integration of digital innovations, AI, and data science into food technology and agri-entrepreneurship, driving impactful solutions for the industry and society.
Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-K, highlighted that the partnership combines NIFTEM-K’s expertise in food processing and technology with IIITH’s strengths in emerging technologies. He noted that the collaboration would help foster innovation, enhance industry linkages, and develop skilled human capital for the future of India’s food ecosystem.
The MoU, valid for five years, marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between the two premier institutions. It aims to jointly advance research, innovation, and capacity building in food technology and interdisciplinary fields, contributing significantly to the growth and modernisation of India’s food processing industry.
Date : 27 to 31 October 2025
Time : 7 PM to 10 PM
Fee : Rs. 3000
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