IIT-Madras (Indian Institute of Technology) is planning to set up a centre of excellence for graphene, in which to conduct quality research and development. It is estimated to require about Rs 100 crore (over $20 million) over a 10-year period, as well as local and international academic collaborations, and budgeting for the centre is being currently worked out.
IIT-M is targeting internationally well known universities in the UK and holding discussions with a large industrial house that will hopefully become the anchor investor. The Centre of Excellence to work on multiple aspects of graphene technology, including producing, functionalizing and finding applications for the material. IIT-Madras is expected to make a formal announcement on the centre in about 45 days.