Patna: Patna has taken a leap in research and academia with the inauguration of two new facilities at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna on Wednesday. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh inaugurated the Laboratory for the Centre for Earthquake Engineering Research (CEER) and the Teaching and Training Facility for the Centre for Endangered Language Studies (CELS) and CEER.
The centres, constructed at a cost of Rs 17 crore with funds allocated under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development (MPLAD) scheme, are expected to provide advanced infrastructure for both research and teaching.
Harivansh said, “In today’s era, knowledge is the most powerful tool to transform systems and communities. These two centres will significantly accelerate research and learning in their respective fields. I wholeheartedly appreciate the tireless efforts of the IIT Patna team and the Government of Bihar in making this vision a reality.”
The CEER laboratory includes advanced experimental infrastructure such as a reconfigurable reaction wall and reaction floor, the first of its kind in Bihar. It will enable full-scale testing of structural components, including multi-storey frames and tall specimens up to eight metres, under simulated load conditions.
Meanwhile, the CELS facility will focus on documenting, preserving, and revitalising endangered languages in Bihar and across India. The new academic building features a 250-seat auditorium, modern classrooms, computer labs, and dedicated office space for researchers.
IIT Patna director Prof T. N. Singh said the dual facilities would advance disaster-resilient infrastructure research while also safeguarding India’s linguistic heritage.
The inauguration was attended by senior officials from the Bihar government, faculty members, and industry representatives, marking what the institute called a “landmark moment” in its mission to integrate technology with social and cultural research.
