Katra, Jan 31: In a remarkable achievement, a team of researchers from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) has been awarded a grant of Rs 93 lakh for their innovative research project titled “Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality-Based Visualisation for Lost/Endangered Architectural Heritage Sites in Jammu & Kashmir”.
The project, funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the Science and Heritage Research Initiative (SHRI) Program, aims to utilise cutting-edge technologies to preserve and promote the rich architectural and cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
The research team, led by Principal Investigator Ar. Vinod Kumar, Assistant Professor at the School of Architecture & Landscape Design, includes Co-Principal Investigators Dr. Bharat Bhushan Jindal, Associate Professor at the School of Civil Engineering, and Dr. Naveen Kumar Gondhi, Associate Professor at the School of Computer Science. The project will leverage augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), 3D modelling, Geographical Information System (GIS), and artificial intelligence (AI) to create immersive experiences for stakeholders. These experiences will be available both physically and virtually, and will aim to raise awareness among policymakers, conservationists, and the general public about the importance of preserving the region’s architectural heritage.
The project’s overarching goal is to showcase the significance of lost or endangered heritage sites and promote sustainable tourism in the region through innovative, interactive technologies. By engaging the public with immersive visualisations, the project seeks to foster a greater understanding of the need for conservation and preservation efforts.
The Vice-Chancellor of SMVDU, Prof. (Dr.) Pragati Kumar, along with the Dean of Research & Development, Prof. A.K. Das, Head of the School of Architecture Ar. Abhiney Gupta, and Heads of other departments, congratulated the research team on this significant achievement. They expressed confidence that the project would not only contribute to preserving Jammu & Kashmir’s architectural heritage but also enhance the university’s reputation for innovative research in the field of cultural heritage preservation.
With the DST grant, this groundbreaking project is set to make a lasting impact, ensuring that the architectural and cultural legacy of Jammu & Kashmir is preserved for future generations through the power of augmented and virtual reality.
