Panjab University Launches Online SAIF Website Using CSR Funds from Vardhman to Digitally Transform Instrumentation Access

Chandigarh, January 16, 2026: Panjab University (PU) took a major step towards strengthening its digital research infrastructure with the launch of the new-look Online SAIF (Sophisticated Analytical Instrumentation Facility) website—a modern, unified and intelligent digital platform designed to simplify access to advanced research and instrumentation facilities.
As a first step towards AI-enabled services, the Online SAIF platform has been developed using CSR funds from Vardhman Textiles, Ludhiana, by Codroid Hub Private Limited, a technology startup operating under a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Panjab University Incubation Centre (PUIC).
PU Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig launched the website in the presence of several eminent dignitaries, including PU Dean, University Instructions, Prof. Yojna Rawat; Director, Research & Development Cell, Prof. Meenakshi Goyal; Director, SAIF/CIL, Prof. Gaurav Verma; Scientist ‘G’ and Head, Infrastructure Division, Department of Science & Technology (DST), Dr. Pratishtha Pandey; and CSR Head, Vardhman Group, Mr. Rajesh Das.
Appreciating the platform for its forward-looking design and practical relevance, PU Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig called for adopting a user-friendly approach across all digital platforms so that a maximum number of queries can be addressed, thereby guiding students and other stakeholders more effectively.
Dr. Pratishtha Pandey emphasised that such digital systems align closely with DST’s vision of modernising research infrastructure through accountability, accessibility and data-driven planning.
Rajesh Das commended the initiative as an excellent example of industry–academia collaboration, enabling optimal utilisation of high-end research facilities.
Earlier, while briefing about the platform, Director, SAIF/CIL, Prof. Gaurav Verma highlighted that the Online SAIF platform would significantly enhance operational efficiency and user experience. He described the initiative as an AI-ready digital solution that brings transparency to instrument booking, billing, reporting and resource utilisation, thereby strengthening SAIF’s role as a national-level research facility.
The platform enables seamless integration of SAIF facilities, providing a transparent, efficient and user-friendly ecosystem for students, researchers, industry users and administrators.
The Online SAIF website offers centralised access to SAIF instruments, facility-wise details, service charges and user guidelines. Key functionalities include online registration with approval-based workflows, secure role-based access, instrument booking and scheduling, digital payments, report downloads, wallet and transaction history, and personalised dashboards with real-time usage and spending analytics.
The platform also supports real-time announcements, circulars, research updates and intelligent alerts, making it a future-ready digital backbone for research operations.