On June 5, 2025, MIT-World Peace University (MIT-WPU) unveiled a pioneering battery fabrication and research facility in Mumbai, marking India’s first initiative of its kind by a private state university. The new center focuses on lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery technologies, aiming to contribute to the nation’s energy self-sufficiency by advancing research in battery development.
The facility is equipped with comprehensive capabilities, spanning from active material synthesis to the fabrication of coin cells and electrochemical performance assessments. Researchers at MIT-WPU are focused on developing cutting-edge electrode materials that enhance energy density, cycling stability, and safety in batteries. A significant part of the research involves creating solid-state electrolytes with improved ionic conductivity and thermal stability, offering a promising alternative to traditional liquid electrolytes.
The center is also exploring innovative battery technologies such as glass-polymer composite electrolytes and paper-based batteries. Additionally, MIT-WPU is working on synthesizing high-purity solvents and electrolytes to support the growing needs of Indian battery manufacturers. In the future, the facility plans to expand into the production of cylindrical and prismatic cells for broader applications in the energy sector.
Professor Dr Bharat Kale, Director of MIT-WPU’s Centre of Excellence in Materials Science, emphasized that the launch of this facility represents a significant step towards advancing sustainable energy technologies. He noted that this initiative aligns with national goals like Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, which aim to bolster the country’s energy independence. The center is also positioned as a hub for industry collaboration and student training, providing valuable opportunities for Ph.D. scholars and future engineers to contribute to India’s clean energy sector.
MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU), located in Pune, India, is a premier institution known for blending academic excellence with a strong emphasis on peace, ethics, and social responsibility. Established under the flagship of the MIT Group of Institutions, MIT-WPU offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across disciplines including engineering, management, law, liberal arts, design, and more. The university is recognized for its industry-aligned curriculum, research-driven approach, and global collaborations, fostering a holistic learning environment. With a mission to create socially conscious leaders and innovators, MIT-WPU integrates academic rigor with values-based education, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to a rapidly changing world.
