IIT Madras Launches Param Shakti Supercomputer

IIT Madras has launched “Param Shakti”, an indigenously developed and manufactured supercomputing system, significantly strengthening India’s high-performance computing capabilities. With a peak performance of 3.1 petaflops, the system ranks among the most powerful computing facilities in the country and marks a major milestone in self-reliant digital infrastructure.

Performance and Indigenous Design

Param Shakti can execute over 3.1 quadrillion calculations per second, enabling rapid processing of large and complex datasets. The system has been built entirely in India by the institute in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC). It is based on C-DAC’s RUDRA server series and operates on open-source software, reinforcing India’s push for indigenous and open digital technologies.

Boost to Advanced Research

The enhanced computing power will allow researchers to solve complex scientific and engineering problems with greater speed and accuracy. It is expected to significantly reduce the time required for simulations and modelling in critical sectors such as aerospace, materials science, climate modelling, drug discovery, and advanced manufacturing. This capability positions Indian researchers to compete globally in frontier areas of science and technology.

Integration with National Infrastructure

Param Shakti will operate as part of the Param Rudra supercomputing cluster, supported by integrated infrastructure for uninterrupted power supply, advanced cooling, and data centre operations. The system has been funded under the National Supercomputing Mission, jointly implemented by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Department of Science and Technology.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Petaflop is a unit measuring computing speed equal to 1015 operations per second.
• National Supercomputing Mission aims to create a nationwide HPC infrastructure.
• C-DAC is the nodal agency for indigenous supercomputer development.
• Open-source software is a key component of India’s HPC strategy.

Mission Vision and Future Expansion

The system was inaugurated by S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, in the presence of V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, and E. Magesh, Director General, C-DAC. Under the mission, 37 supercomputers have already been installed across institutions nationwide, with more planned, including the largest upcoming system in Bengaluru. The mission promotes multiple GPU architectures to ensure broad technological exposure and capability development among Indian researchers.