Patna: IIT-Patna (IIT-P) on Friday unveiled a 500-computer state-of-the-art laboratory, strengthening its digital academic infrastructure. Inaugurated by IIT-P director Amit Patra on Gandhi Jayanti, the facility has been set up inside the institute’s Central Library and is equipped with 500 high-performance computers and advanced networking systems.The entire facility was conceptualised and executed using the institute’s internal resources, without relying on an externally executed infrastructure project. After inaugurating the lab, Patra inspected the hardware, networking and other technical arrangements and discussed its proposed academic applications.The facility has been designed for two functions. During regular academic activities, it will operate as a large-scale digital library, providing students and researchers access to global e-journals, academic databases and digital learning resources.During examinations, the facility will be converted into a 500-terminal digital examination centre, enabling IIT-P to conduct computer-based examinations on a large scale in a controlled and secure environment.The dual-purpose facility is expected to expand access to digital academic resources while providing dedicated infrastructure for technology-driven assessments. The project also marks a step towards strengthening IIT-P’s digital ecosystem and creating a more technology-enabled learning environment for students and researchers across the institute, while supporting its growing academic and examination needs.
