MOU BETWEEN BHU & TATA CONSUMER PRODUCTS LIMITED (TCPL) TO LAUNCH TATA RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

Varanasi, 21^st March 2025 – The Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology (DSFT), Institute of Agricultural Sciences (IAS), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, witnessed a momentous occasion today as an important Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between BHU, and TATA CONSUMER PRODUCTS. The MoU was signed by Mr. Vikas Gupta, Global Head of R&D, TATA CONSUMER PRODUCTS, ,  and  Prof.  Arun Kumar Singh, Registrar, & Senior Professor  BHU and  Prof  U. P. Singh, Director Institute of Agricultural Sciences , BHU, and  Prof.  Anil K. Chauhan, Head ,  Department of  Dairy Science and Food Technology, BHU were present as a witness of MoU.

The TATA Research Fellowship Programme is designed to support scholars who are committed to developing innovative solutions in the fields of  food processing & sustainability  It is a prestigious program that encourages interdisciplinary research and fosters cutting-edge developments in food technology and allied fields. Ms. Ishita Nag, a research scholar from Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology, BHU, was  selected for this coveted fellowship after successfully clearing two rounds of rigorous interviews and evaluations. The selection process was highly competitive, with 15 meritorious students participating in the assessment. The fellowship will provide financial assistance to the selected candidate for a period of three years or until the completion of their Ph.D. program. This recognition underlines Ms. Ishita Nag’s exceptional academic credentials, dedication to research, and commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of dairy and food technology.

Speaking on this proud occasion, Prof.  Arun Kumar Singh, Registrar, BHU, congratulated the department and Ms. Ishita Nag on this remarkable accomplishment. He reiterated that the university has always been a pioneer in promoting research excellence and emphasized that collaborations like these enhance the university’s global academic standing. “This MoU is not just a document; it is a commitment to innovation, knowledge-sharing, and scientific excellence. The selection of our scholar under this prestigious fellowship strengthens our resolve to continue fostering research that benefits society at large,” he remarked.

Adding to the significance of the event, Senior Professor U. P. Singh, Director BHU, emphasized the significance of this achievement. He stated, “This prestigious recognition is a testament to the rigorous research culture and high academic standards at BHU. It not only brings pride to our institution but also serves as an inspiration for budding researchers to excel in their respective domains. This fellowship reinforces the crucial role of research in addressing contemporary challenges in food science and agricultural advancements.”

Again, Senior Prof. Anil Kumar  Chauhan, Head of the DSFT, IAS BHU, remarked, “The rapidly evolving landscape of agriculture and food technology demands interdisciplinary collaboration and a problem-solving approach. which aims to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and practical application for the society. We are confident that this recognition will propel her towards making valuable contributions to the field, and we extend our best wishes for her future endeavours.”

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Vikas Gupta, Global Head of R&D, TATA CONSUMER PRODUCTS, expressed his optimism about the impact of this collaboration. He stated, “TATA CONSUMER PRODUCTS is committed to supporting young and promising researchers who have the potential to revolutionize the food industry through innovative research. This MoU with , BHU, signifies our dedication to fostering academia-industry partnerships, which are critical for translating research into real-world applications. The TATA  Research Fellowship Programme ensures continuous mentorship and annual reviews, keeping researchers on track with their objectives and encouraging them to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields. With its emphasis on translational research, the fellowship equips scholars with the necessary resources and guidance to transform their academic pursuits into impactful solutions.”

The entire BHU community takes immense pride in remarkable achievement. This achievement reaffirms BHU’s commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and impactful contributions to science and industry. It is a proud moment for, BHU and  TCPL a milestone in strengthening academia-industry partnerships for a better and sustainable future.