The Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar) has achieved a major milestone in its mission to bolster India’s technological landscape. Under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), IIT Ropar’s Technology Innovation Hub, iHub – AWaDH, officially inaugurated its 19th Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) Lab on January 15, 2026.
Located at EPIC (Entrepreneurship Promotion and Incubation Council) within the Ambala College of Engineering & Applied Research, this facility represents the first NM-ICPS-powered lab in Haryana.
A Hub for Next-Generation Innovation
The CPS Lab is more than just a classroom; it is a full-scale innovation ecosystem designed to support the journey from a simple idea to a market-ready startup.
Key focus areas of the lab include:
- Experiential Learning: Hands-on exposure for students and faculty to cyber-physical robotic systems.
- Prototyping & Validation: Advanced infrastructure to test and refine deep-tech solutions.
- Startup Incubation: Bridging the gap between academic research and commercial deployment.
- Regional Growth: Empowering local MSMEs and strengthening the regional workforce.
The Inauguration Ceremony
The facility was formally opened by Shri Sanjeev Chawla, Additional Development Commissioner, MSME, alongside a distinguished panel of leaders from IIT Ropar and Ambala College of Engineering.
Dr. Ashawant Gupta, Director, Ambala College of Engineering & Applied Research
Shri Rama Kant, Director, EPIC, Ambala College of Engineering & Applied Research
Dr. Meenu Saini, Head of Department (ECE), Ambala College of Engineering & Applied Research
Shri Nalini Kant, Chairman, MDI and Ambala College of Engineering & Applied Research
Gp Capt Chander Shekhar Sharma (Retd.), Registrar, Ambala College of Engineering & Applied Research
Dr. Radhika Trikha, Chief Executive Officer, iHub – AWaDH @ IIT Ropar
Dr. Mukesh Kestwal, Chief Innovation Officer, iHub – AWaDH @ IIT Ropar
The leadership emphasized that interdisciplinary research and industry-academia collaboration are the bedrock of a self-reliant, “Atmanirbhar” India.
Strategic Impact & National Vision
By democratizing access to high-end technology, IIT Ropar is ensuring that regional institutions can contribute to India’s global leadership in intelligent infrastructure. This 19th lab acts as a regional nucleus, fostering an environment where deep-tech innovation can thrive outside of major metropolitan hubs.
“Such partnerships are central to building a national network of CPS Labs that collectively support India’s ambition to emerge as a global leader in cyber-physical robotic systems.”
Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI)
IIT Ropar continues to seek academic and innovation partners to expand this network further. Academic institutions interested in establishing an IIT Ropar CPS Lab powered by NM-ICPS are encouraged to apply.
- Apply Here: bit.ly/CPSSetup
- For inquiries, contact us at: skilling@ihub-awadh.in