DTU Strengthens Defence Collaborations, Launches Geospatial Tech Department and Expands Global Ties: VC Prateek Sharma

Delhi Technological University, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Prateek Sharma shared how institution is building strong R&D collaborations with DRDO, MoRTH, and BRO to support India’s self-reliance in defence and infrastructure.

In an exclusive conversation with Shiksha, Delhi Technological University (DTU) Vice Chancellor Prof. Prateek Sharma shared how institution is building strong R&D collaborations with DRDO, MoRTH, and BRO to support India’s self-reliance in defence and infrastructure. 

Q: DTU has launched new undergraduate programmes recently. What is admission process?

VC: We’ve launched three new B.Tech programmes this year, Data Science and Analytics, Cyber Security, and VLSI Design and Technology. Each programme has 60 seats, and admissions are conducted through Joint Admission Counselling (JAC). These programmes were approved by our Academic Council and Board of Management in May.

Q: You also introduced an M.Tech in Cyber Security. What’s update on that?

VC: Yes, the M.Tech in Cyber Security is now open for admissions. There are 30 seats, and applicants need a valid GATE score. 

Q: You’ve mentioned a strong focus on research-based postgraduation. Could you elaborate on your M.Tech by Research initiatives?

VC: Certainly. Traditional M.Tech has more coursework and less time for actual research. Our M.Tech by Research model flips this, one semester of coursework and three semesters of research. This allows working professionals to continue research in collaboration with industries or government labs.

We’ve launched:

M.Tech by Research in Sustainable Energy in collaboration with the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE).

M.Tech by Research in ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) with Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI).

Q: Is DTU collaborating with defence or government agencies for research?

VC: Yes. We have signed an MoU with DRDO for student internships and research in self-reliance and defence technology. We also work with MoRTH (Ministry of Road Transport & Highways) for technical vetting of DPRs and tunnel safety post incidents like the Silkyara collapse. Our faculty is also engaged with BRO for addressing landslides in Northeast.

Q: Are there international collaborations in the pipeline?

VC: We’ve signed MoUs with below universities:

University of Houston

Wright State University

Bradley University

We are also exploring 3+1 and 4+1 joint degree models, where DTU students can study abroad, and even international students can come to DTU for part of their degree course. 

Q: Any other unique academic or departmental expansions planned?

VC: We are launching a Department of Geospatial Science and Technology, a discipline relevant to everything from disaster management to defence. We already offer an M.Tech in Geoinformatics, and now we will add UG and PhD programmes. Our aim is to lead in geospatial research and education, with National Space Policy 2022.

Q: What support is DTU receiving from Delhi govt?

VC: Yes, we’ve received 48 acres in Narela for our new campus as part of Delhi Government’s Education Hub. A research park, and Centres of Excellence in AI and Drone Technology are planned there. Delhi govt has committed the first phase of funding. We're also developing proposals to tackle Delhi’s civic issues, like pollution, through interdisciplinary research.

Q: Any targets for the endowment fund like other major institutions?

VC: We have worked out estimates and prepared a brochure outlining naming rights and required investments for each infrastructure project. I do not recall exact figure now, but our fundraising targets are aligned with infrastructure needs and alumni involvement.