Professor at Indian Institute Of Technology, India
Dr. Virendra Kumar Vijay is an esteemed professor, researcher, and innovator specializing in renewable energy, sustainable technology, and rural development. Currently, he holds the prestigious position of IREDA Chair Professor and Head at the Centre for Rural Development and Technology (CRDT), IIT Delhi. With over 32 years of academic and professional experience, Dr. Vijay has dedicated his career to promoting biogas technology, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Publication Profile
Education:
Dr. Vijay’s academic journey is marked by a commitment to agricultural engineering and renewable energy. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering from Sukhadia University, Udaipur, in 1987, followed by a Master’s in Renewable Energy from Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, in 1989, graduating with honors. His Ph.D. in Rural Development & Technology from IIT Delhi, completed in 1998, focused on rural industries development using biomass energy, setting the foundation for his work in renewable energy and rural sustainability.
Professional Experience:
- Dr. Vijay’s professional career spans over three decades, with significant contributions to academia, research, and technology transfer. Starting as an Assistant Professor at Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, he went on to serve at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur. Since joining IIT Delhi, he has held key academic and administrative roles, including Head of the CRDT and National Coordinator for Unnat Bharat Abhiyan. His work at IIT Delhi includes leading projects, teaching, and advancing research initiatives. Notably, he developed low-cost biogas purification and bottling technology for vehicular use, which has been successfully implemented by nine industries and multiple field sites, contributing to India’s bio-CNG standards.
Research and Innovation
Dr. Vijay’s research interests are centered around biogas purification, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy integration, and rural entrepreneurship. His groundbreaking work on biogas enrichment and bottling technology has gained recognition nationally, including the operation of India’s first biogas-fueled car. Additionally, his research efforts have led to patents and impactful technology transfers in collaboration with industries such as Indian Compressors Ltd, Tech Zone, and Mahindra & Mahindra. Dr. Vijay’s pioneering work in bio-CNG and sustainable rural energy systems has established him as a thought leader in sustainable technology.
Key Achievements and Awards:
As a prolific researcher and innovator, Dr. Vijay has been awarded three patents, with his most notable patent enabling biogas to be converted into a fuel gas with enhanced thermal efficiency. He has received numerous accolades, including the Merit Certificate by the Board of Secondary Education, Rajasthan, and several awards recognizing his contributions to biofuel and renewable energy research. Dr. Vijay has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and has supervised numerous Ph.D. scholars. His author metrics on Google Scholar reflect his impact in areas such as biogas technology, waste management, and rural development, with citations demonstrating the influence of his work in academic and industrial circles.