Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) to open new campus in Tezpur, Assam

Kolkata: Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) is formulating plan to set up a full-fledged campus at Tezpur in Assam. "The decision to open a campus aims at encouraging research in the northeastern part of the country and assist in solving local problems," said director Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay.

Speaking to TOI the director said "The campus will come up on 75 acres allotted by the Government of Assam at a cost of Rs 150 crore. According to Bandyopadhyay, the campus will all required facilities will be operational in the next 4-5 years."

"The university centre, which is already in Assam is operating from the campus of Tezpur University. After the completion of the initiated project, the agricultural and ecological research unit and physics and earth sciences division can carry out research there."

"This will not only enhance our capabilities but provide help to the local population by sorting out their problems. Ultimately, we shall contribute towards national development," the director, who is visiting Tezpur to take stock of the situation said.

ISI is already offering a post-graduate diploma course from Tezpur University for which many locals are taking admission to the course. Once the full-fledged campus comes up, the number of courses offered will be increased inorder to help youngsters in the northeastern to provide better career options.

"The Centre has already allotted funds for development of the northeastern states and these will be utilized for the campus. Even now, our faculty members from Kolkata and elsewhere visit Tezpur to attend various training programmes. We want to consolidate our position in that region from Tezpur." added Bandyopadhyay.

Indian Institute of Management, Shillong, which was set up in 2008 has received a very good response and students from the region have been inspired to seek admission for higher studies.