IIT Mandi Secures 20 Crore Grant from Tata Trusts to Boost Landslide and Disaster-Resilience Research

IIT Mandi has been awarded a ₹20 crore grant from Tata Trusts to advance research in landslide monitoring, disaster response, and earthquake-resistant infrastructure—an important boost for Himachal Pradesh’s ongoing efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness.

Announcing the grant, IIT Mandi Director Prof. Laxmidhar Behera said the funding will significantly reinforce the institute’s ongoing initiatives in disaster forecasting and mitigation. Known for its fragile mountainous terrain, Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a rise in landslides and seismic activity in recent years, particularly during the monsoon. Recognizing the urgent need for enhanced disaster-readiness, IIT Mandi has been working extensively on developing technological solutions to reduce the impact of natural hazards.

Prof. Behera noted that IIT Mandi has already developed an early warning system for landslides that issues alerts to help prevent major disasters and loss of life. The technology is currently being used by the Mandi district administration at several high-risk sites during the monsoon season.
“This system has proven effective in improving preparedness and enabling timely evacuations in vulnerable areas,” he said.

With the new ₹20 crore grant, IIT Mandi plans to expand and deepen its research across three critical areas:

• Advanced landslide monitoring through real-time systems, enhanced sensors, AI-driven modelling, and geotechnical analysis
• Innovative disaster response technologies, including predictive tools and rapid decision-support systems
• Earthquake-resistant infrastructure, structural engineering research, retrofitting methods, and improved building designs for seismic zones

Prof. Behera emphasized that the support from Tata Trusts will allow the institute to scale its research in ways that will directly benefit the people of Himachal Pradesh.
“Given the state’s vulnerability to landslides and earthquakes, this research is crucial for safeguarding lives and infrastructure,” he said. “The outcomes will help government agencies, policymakers, and communities prepare more effectively for natural disasters.”

He added that the partnership between IIT Mandi and Tata Trusts marks a significant step toward building a resilient Himalayan region supported by advanced scientific tools and sustainable infrastructure.
“With climate change increasing the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, this grant will help drive cutting-edge research that enhances long-term safety and disaster resilience in the state,” Prof. Behera said.