Mr. Pabitra Sahoo is an academician, researcher, and data professional with 11+ years of experience spanning higher education, healthcare analytics, and interdisciplinary research. Since January 2026, he has been serving as Project Coordinator II at DIA-CoE, IIT Kharagpur, where he supports the centre’s academic and research ecosystem through research coordination, academic initiatives, project management, and day-to-day administrative operations. In this role, he helps ensure smooth planning and execution across ongoing activities, streamlines coordination workflows, and contributes to evidence-backed, data-informed decision-making for centre operations.
As Project Coordinator II, Mr. Sahoo also plays a key role in coordinating the centre’s multiple research verticals and enabling effective communication among internal teams and external stakeholders. He assists in managing stakeholder engagement, facilitating cross-functional collaboration, and maintaining alignment between project goals, reporting needs, and operational deliverables. Alongside his professional responsibilities, he is pursuing a PhD in Management from NIT Durgapur and holds an M.Tech in Engineering Statistics, a B.Tech in Information Technology, and a PG Diploma in Educational Management and Administration-bringing a strong interdisciplinary foundation that supports both academic coordination and administrative leadership.
Mr. Barru Deepak Rao
Accounts Officer
Barru Deepak Rao joined as Accounts Officer in DIA-CoE, IIT Kharagpur in October 2024. Prior to that, he worked as Project Officer in the Department of Computer Science Engineering, IIT Kharagpur during 2023-2024
He is responsible for managing the financial accounts and transactions for the centre. His role involves overseeing the financial records, monitoring the payable and receivable accounts, preparing financial reports, handling budgets, supporting internal audits. and maintaining financial stability through accounting practices. He works diligently with the finance, management and auditing teams of IIT Kharagpur to maintain a smooth and transparent financial operation. He possesses strong analytical skills, and a good understanding of financial software and accounting principles to perform the duties effectively.
Mr. Sushovan Das
Administrative Officer
Sushovan Das joined the DRDO Industry Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE), Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, as an Administrative Officer in March 2026. In this role, he supports research administration, institutional coordination, and the facilitation of industry–academia collaboration initiatives, contributing to the efficient functioning of a research-driven academic environment. He is an administrative professional with a strong interdisciplinary background in engineering and management. He holds a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA in Marketing and Human Resource Management, combining technical and managerial expertise with strong organizational and strategic capabilities
He has also worked as a Consultant at the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), supporting strategic communication and outreach activities. Earlier, he worked at Basumati Corporation Limited, Government of West Bengal, where he gained experience in administrative operations and procurement management. With professional experience across government institutions, he specializes in administration, strategic planning, stakeholder coordination, and digital communication. He is fluent in English, Hindi, and Bengali and is committed to enhancing institutional efficiency and supporting impactful academic and research outcomes.
Mr. Amal Patra
Technician
Mr. Amal Patra joined DIA-CoE, IIT Kharagpur in December 2025 and currently serves as a Technician, supporting the centre's day-to-day administrative and operational activities that keep the office running smoothly. As part of the core support team, he contributes to maintaining an organized, efficient workplace by assisting with routine office operations and ensuring timely execution of essential administrative tasks.
In his role, Mr. Patra helps streamline workflow across the centre by managing files and records, handling correspondence, and supporting basic book-keeping and data entry. He also assists in organizing documentation, maintaining office registers, and facilitating routine administrative requirements, including scheduling and coordinating meetings. Through consistent operational support and attention to detail, he strengthens internal coordination and helps ensure smooth, well-documented functioning of the centre.
Mr. Yogesh Kumar Tripude
Multi-Tasking Attendant
Mr. Yogesh Kumar Tripude joined as Office Assistant in DIA-CoE, IIT Kharagpur in November 2024. Prior to that, he worked as Multi Tasking Staff at Krishna Suppliers for a period of 4 years. He is responsible for supporting daily office operations and ensuring smooth workflow within the centre. Also, he is responsible for managing the files, handling correspondence, and assisting with basic book-keeping or data entry.