DIIPC–Industry Exchange Places AI at the Centre of Academic Innovation

Bengaluru, 26th March 2026: An interaction session on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in innovation and incubation was held on 26th March 2026 at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), bringing together members of the Department of Innovation, Incubation and Intellectual Property Cell (DIIPC) and industry expert Dr Shashishankar A, Chief Executive Officer of Aigara Solutions Private Limited. The session followed an Industry Expert Talk conducted by the Department of Civil Engineering and focused on strengthening industry–academia engagement.

The discussion examined how AI-driven tools can be integrated into research, startup development, and institutional innovation frameworks. Dr Shashishankar outlined practical applications of AI across key stages of innovation, including idea generation, data analysis, prototype development, and intellectual property support. He emphasised the role of AI in streamlining processes such as market research, feasibility assessment, predictive modelling, and documentation, enabling faster and more informed decision-making within academic environments.

Particular attention was given to interdisciplinary applications, with examples drawn from areas such as smart infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and urban development. Participants engaged in detailed discussions on how these tools could be adopted within existing DIIPC initiatives to enhance research outcomes and support student-led innovation.

The session also explored opportunities for collaboration between DIIPC and Aigara Solutions Private Limited. Proposed areas included joint workshops and training programmes on AI tools, mentorship for student startups, and support for incubation activities. Dr Shashishankar indicated his willingness to provide technical guidance and industry insights to assist students and faculty in translating ideas into viable solutions.

The session concluded with mutual interest in developing a structured framework for continued collaboration. The interaction marks a step towards embedding AI-enabled approaches within the University’s innovation ecosystem and reinforcing links between academic research and industry practice.