Coromandel International to Anchor Future Growth With New Research Hub at IIT Madras

CHENNAI, Coromandel International, a flagship company of the Murugappa Group, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) to establish a dedicated Corporate Research Centre at the IIT Madras Research Park. The initiative is expected to strengthen Coromandel’s shift toward science-led, innovation-driven agri-solutions as the sector adapts to climate and productivity pressures.

According to the company, the collaboration will focus on translational research—accelerating the movement of laboratory innovations into scalable commercial applications. Key areas include advanced crop nutrition, nano-fertilisers, and sustainable agri-input platforms aimed at improving farm yields while reducing environmental stress.

Coromandel said the centre will help bridge cutting-edge research capabilities with real-world agricultural needs, supporting product development across high-growth categories such as specialty nutrients and next-generation fertiliser technologies. The partnership also reflects IIT Madras growing engagement with industry through its research park ecosystem and applied innovation programmes.

The MoU was exchanged in the presence of senior representatives from both Coromandel and IIT Madras. IIT Madras leadership highlighted the relevance of such partnerships in enabling India’s agriculture sector to become more resilient, more productive, and more self-reliant.

Summary

Coromandel International has partnered with IIT Madras to set up a Corporate Research Centre at the IIT Madras Research Park, with a focus on translational research in nano-fertilisers, crop nutrition, and sustainable agri-inputs. The initiative supports Coromandel’s long-term strategy to build higher-value, science-led product pipelines while aligning with India’s push for resilient and self-reliant agriculture.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q1: When was the Coromandel–IIT Madras MoU signed?

The MoU was signed and announced on January 12, 2026.

Q2: What will the Corporate Research Centre focus on?

The centre is expected to work on applied research in nano-fertilisers, specialty nutrients, sustainable crop nutrition, and other next-generation agri-input innovations.

Q3: Why is “translational research” important?

Translational research helps convert academic innovation into real products, improving the speed at which new technologies reach farmers and commercial markets.

Q4: How does this fit Coromandel’s business strategy?

The hub supports Coromandel’s efforts to future-proof its portfolio through higher-value and sustainability-linked products, particularly as regulatory and climate pressures increase across global agriculture.