Bihar Govt Releases Funds for Rs 50-Crore Incubation Centre at Bihta Campus

Patna: An incubation centre is set to be established at the Bihta campus of NIT Patna, with funding of Rs 50 crore released by the Bihar government. The funds have been transferred to the institute, and preparations for the project are underway, according to NIT Patna’s director, Professor P.K. Jain.

“The DPR (detailed project report) will be prepared soon, and the construction work will commence thereafter,” Jain said. The proposed incubation centre will provide comprehensive support for startups, from ideation to market launch. It aims to offer facilities such as workspace, mentoring, marketing assistance, product development resources, initial funding, access to networks, training, and technical tools.

 Supporting Innovation and Startups

Incubation centres are vital in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. They serve as a launchpad for startups by offering essential infrastructure and financial support. Many such centres, run by government and private organisations with state backing, already operate across the country, providing grants and resources to emerging ventures.

 A Promise Fulfilled

The announcement for the incubation centre was made by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during the BCE-NIT Patna Alumni Society’s annual meet on February 4, 2024. The event, which marked the centenary of the institution, saw the chief minister pledging to establish the facility.

He directed officials to expedite the preparation of the DPR, with assurances that funds would be allocated within a week. “This project reflects the concerted efforts of the chief minister and government officials. It will bolster research and startup initiatives at the institute,” said Jain.

Bihta Campus Expansion

In addition to the incubation centre, NIT Patna’s new Bihta campus, spanning 125 acres, is nearing readiness. Scheduled to begin operations in July, the facility will cater to approximately 6,000 engineering students, making it one of the largest student capacities for engineering education in India.

An alumni research centre has also been established at the new campus, enabling alumni to contribute through donations, which will qualify for income tax rebates. Jain emphasised that the new campus represents a significant step forward in expanding educational and research capabilities.