IIT Bombay, Columbia University Partner To Launch AI Centre 

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI-The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and Columbia University have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish the Columbia–IIT Bombay Centre of AI for Manufacturing, aimed at advancing research and industrial applications of artificial intelligence in manufacturing systems.

The agreement was exchanged in the presence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan at an event held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, according to an official statement. Minister of State for Education Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Higher Education Secretary Dr. Vineet Joshi, School Education and Literacy Secretary Sanjay Kumar, and MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan were also present.

The Ministry of Education said the new center is part of a broader set of government-supported AI initiatives. The Ministry has so far established four AI-focused centers. The Columbia–IIT Bombay facility will operate as a joint research and translation hub, concentrating on deploying artificial intelligence across manufacturing processes.

According to the Ministry, the center will develop interoperable and scalable AI systems designed for real-world industrial use. Its research will address operational challenges such as legacy equipment, inconsistent data quality, real-time decision-making demands, and workforce diversity in manufacturing environments.

An official statement said the collaboration will combine expertise in artificial intelligence, optimization, process engineering and manufacturing systems from both institutions. In addition to applied research, the center will engage industry partners to design customized solutions and support startups operating at the intersection of AI and manufacturing.