Chandigarh, Feb. 10 -- A recent audit of the Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTech), Chandigarh, has exposed severe financial mismanagement, unfulfilled and delayed projects, and administrative inefficiencies between 2021 and 2023, involving research projects worth Rs.21.34 crore.

These significant irregularities, highlighted in a report drafted by the Director General of Audit (Environment & Scientific Departments), New Delhi, led to unutilised research funds, non-compliance with financial propriety and failure to capitalise on scientific advancements made by the premier research institute, dedicated to advancing microbial science and technology.

Established in 1984 in Chandigarh's Sector 39, IMTech is one among the chain of 38 nat...