The Centre of Excellence for Homeland Security at BITS Pilani Hyderabad named as Centre of Research Excellence for National Security (CRENS) represents a strategic initiative to enhance the nation's security capabilities through indigenous technology development. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and skill development, the CRENS will play a crucial role in making the country self-reliant in the national security domain. The success of this initiative will significantly contribute to the nation's strategic and economic growth, ensuring a secure and prosperous future.

The institute was established in its present form in 1964. During this period, the institute's transformation from a regional engineering college to a national university was backed by G.D. Birla. The university has expanded its campuses from Pilani to Goa, Hyderabad and Dubai. After expansion to a campus in Dubai, it has become the first international deemed university, spearheading research in science and engineering with four established campuses and fifteen academic departments. Backed by the Aditya Birla Group, the institute secures extramural research funds from industries and various government agencies.