While Data labs exist for the large fields, such data labs focusing on rural communities are limited. On that note, the Rural Data and Research Centre (RUDRA) will aim to become the leading academically based centre in India where research will be conducted in India’s renowned technical institution – Indian Institute of Technology – Bombay (IIT B) and research findings/products will be tested and applied at rural areas, where Centre for Technology Alternatives for Rural Areas (CTARA) already has long lasting experience. Therefore the focus will be on applied research with focus on rural areas - natural resources management, education, health care, food security, climate change and sustainability.