Kerala set to become India’s graphene hub, aims to lead in advanced materials sector

New Delhi: Kerala is in the spotlight with its push to become a hub for cutting-edge technology with the launch of the India Graphene Engineering and Innovation Centre (IGEIC). The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, officially announced the launch on Wednesday. This initiative is part of the Union Government's broader vision to build a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, showcasing the state's growing prominence in the field of advanced materials.

The IGEIC, a non-profit entity, will spearhead the development of the graphene ecosystem across India. It aims to foster collaborations between startups, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), academia, industry, and government. Bilateral partnerships will also be part of this global initiative.

Strategically positioned in Kerala, the centre will have its R&D setup in Thiruvananthapuram, while its manufacturing unit, supported by the Kerala Government, will be located in Palakkad. This placement underscores Kerala's crucial role in the commercialisation of graphene technology, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for innovation.

S. Krishnan, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), emphasised the significance of graphene and the IGEIC’s role in advancing India's position in this global sector. “The establishment of IGEIC under the ‘Graphene Aurora’ programme reflects our commitment to developing cutting-edge solutions and creating a robust industrial base for advanced materials,” said Krishnan.

He further noted, “The centre will not only drive innovation but also generate substantial opportunities for startups and industry, boosting economic growth.”

In addition to its R&D and manufacturing facilities, the IGEIC will have its corporate and business development hub in Bengaluru, highlighting a strategic approach to national and global engagement.

Earlier this year, MeitY launched India’s first graphene centre—the India Innovation Centre for Graphene (IICG) in Kerala—at Makers Village Kochi, in collaboration with the Kerala Government and Tata Steel Limited.

Magic behind graphene

Graphene, a material derived from graphite and composed of pure carbon, is increasingly recognised for its versatile applications in energy, construction, health, and electronics. This material is expected to revolutionise several industries, with Kerala positioned at the heart of this technological advancement. 

With IANS inputs