Avnet India Partners with NITK for Sustainable Innovation
A Major Step Towards Environmental Sustainability
Bangalore, India – Avnet India Pvt Ltd, a renowned global technology distributor, recently announced a significant partnership with the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK) in Surathkal. This collaboration is part of Avnet India’s larger Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, aimed at utilizing advanced AI technologies for vital sustainability and biodiversity projects.
Collaborative Projects Focused on Sustainability
Avnet India’s partnership with NITK’s Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) is centered around three innovative projects. These initiatives are designed to harness AI and machine learning for addressing pressing environmental challenges:
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AI-Driven Landslide Detection System
This cutting-edge project employs AI techniques and Avnet’s specialized development boards to provide early warnings for landslide risks. By accurately detecting potential landslides, this system aims to enhance safety in vulnerable regions such as the Himalayas and the Western Ghats, ultimately saving lives and protecting property. -
Automated Bird Identification System
Utilizing deep learning technology, this system automates the process of identifying bird species from various audio and video recordings. By streamlining data collection in challenging environments, it supports critical conservation research, making the work of ornithologists more efficient and effective. - Wildlife Trafficking Prevention through Sound Identification
This innovative solution focuses on detecting and identifying bird sounds, contributing to the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking. By integrating machine learning, the system improves detection capabilities at checkpoints, playing an essential role in preserving avian biodiversity and preventing poaching.
Upgrading Educational Facilities for Advanced Research
In addition to these projects, Avnet India is significantly upgrading NITK’s Electronic Systems Laboratory. The laboratory will be outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment, including digital oscilloscopes and AI-integrated development boards, essential for the advancement of these sustainability initiatives.
Avnet’s Commitment to Innovation and ESG Goals
With over a century of experience in technology distribution, Avnet has cultivated strong relationships with suppliers worldwide. This partnership with NITK exemplifies Avnet’s dedication to fostering innovation in the tech industry. The collaboration empowers researchers and students to develop scalable, AI-driven solutions that tackle crucial environmental and societal challenges.
Suresh Kamath, Managing Director of Avnet India, emphasized the importance of this partnership: “Our alliance with NITK Surathkal underscores Avnet India’s commitment to our global ESG strategy. We are dedicated to leveraging technology for significant environmental and community impacts, particularly in the domains of landslide detection and bird conservation.”
Insights from NITK Leadership
The Head of the ECE Department at NITK expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We are thrilled to work with Avnet India on these transformative sustainability projects. By utilizing cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies, we aim to confront some of the most urgent environmental and conservation issues, from landslide monitoring to wildlife protection. This partnership fosters impactful research, aligning with our broader goals of sustainability and biodiversity conservation.”
Inauguration of the Upgraded Laboratory
On April 16, 2025, the newly upgraded lab was officially inaugurated by Sunil Kumar G, Senior Business Unit Manager from Avnet India, alongside Professor Neelawar Shekar Vittal Shet from NITK’s ECE department. The event was also attended by Professor Bhallamudi Ravi, Director of NITK, along with around 60 faculty members and students, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for this initiative.
NITK’s Standing in the Academic World
NITK holds the prestigious title of an Institute of National Importance, as recognized by the Government of India. It consistently ranks among the top engineering institutions in the country, emphasizing the significance of Avnet’s support for the ECE department as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program for 2024-25.
Through this collaboration, Avnet and NITK are setting a powerful precedent for how technology and academia can join forces in addressing some of today’s most critical challenges related to the environment and biodiversity.
