The establishment of the Centre for Human-Computer Interaction (CHCi) is a significant milestone in the nascent history of Technology Innovation Hub at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi. The inaugural event was graced by officials from the Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of India, academia, and industry.

One of the stated goals of the Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) at IIT Mandi is to set up a world class centre to nurture the science and technology of the rapidly evolving world of Human-Computer Interaction. With the establishment of CHCi, the ecosystem would be created to promote excellence in translational research resulting in products and platforms which could yield significant breakthroughs to address some of the nation’s priorities.

Prof. Uttama Lahiri, Professor of Electrical Engineering from IIT Gandhinagar emphasised the crucial role of Human-Computer Interaction (HCi) in healthcare during her talk on "Witnessing the Power of HCi in Diagnostics, Rehabilitation, and Affective Computing." She highlighted how HCi, coupled with wearables, can transform diagnostics and rehabilitation for post-stroke patients and individuals with Parkinson's disease. Additionally, she discussed the potential of computer-based cognitive test batteries in aiding diagnosis of cognitive impairment and intervention strategies for children with autism.

The Centre's initiatives will encompass a wide range of areas within the HCi landscape, including but not limited to:

• Assistive Technologies
• Experience Technologies
• Device-Led Technologies
• Brain-Computer Interaction
• Generative Design

These core areas will be supported by state-of-the-art facilities spanning over 2200 square feet, fostering innovation and nurturing talent in the field of HCi.