"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#IIT

Good News

Goodbye Hidden Cracks: IIT’s AI Drone Uncovers What the Eye Can’t See!

According to an official on Tuesday, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore has created a drone with artificial intelligence (AI) software for close surveillance of buildings in remote locations. The AI-driven remotely operated vehicle, according to the IIT official, can identify cracks and other flaws in structures in as little as 25 milliseconds, ranging from high-tension power lines and gas pipelines to buildings and roadways.(Source: Google Images)   Artificial Intelligence Towards Wonders Of  Machine Learning ~ (Source: Google Images) Professor Abhirup Datta of IIT Indore stated, "The institute has developed a cutting-edge drone system that integrates Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) with AI and machine learning (ML) to inspect and detect anomalies in structures, especially in difficult-to-reach areas."According to him, this cutting-edge system employs AI-ML technology to instantly detect and categorize cracks and other irregularities in infrastructure like high-tension wires, gas pipelines, buildings, and roadways ~ now that's taking magical advantage of artificial intelligence modules.Datta stated, "The system has demonstrated exceptional accuracy, achieving a 98.7% success rate in identifying and categorizing cracks and processing data using cutting-edge AI edge devices like Nvidia Jetson in just 25 milliseconds." It is anticipated that this breakthrough will revolutionize inspection procedures, resulting in a quicker, safer, and more dependable process. According to the IIT professor, AI-powered drones can also be utilized to find cracks and other flaws in railroad lines provided specific research is done.Thank you to these imaginative brains for creating a revolutionary technique that allows you to say goodbye to broken roads and hidden construction defects!

12 Sep 2024
Good News

IIT-Bombay and TCS Join Forces for India's First Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-Bombay) and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) have embarked on a mission to develop India’s first Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager. This innovative project aims to achieve new heights in semiconductor chip examination, significantly reducing chip failures and increasing the energy efficiency of electronic devices. Harnessing Quantum Technology Over the next two years, a team of experts from TCS will collaborate with Dr. Kasturi Saha, Associate Professor in IIT-Bombay’s Department of Electrical Engineering, to develop a state-of-the-art quantum imaging platform within the PQuest Lab. This platform is set to revolutionize quality control processes for semiconductor chips, enhancing their reliability, safety, and energy efficiency. The Brainpower Behind Modern Devices Semiconductor chips are integral to the functionality of all modern electronic devices. These chips act as the brains of various technologies, enabling smart and efficient operations across diverse sectors, including communications, computing, healthcare, military systems, transportation, and clean energy. The advanced Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager will elevate the standard of semiconductor manufacturing, ensuring superior product performance and durability. Advancing Through Collaboration Dr. Kasturi Saha expressed her excitement about the collaboration, noting that the PQuest group at IIT-Bombay was thrilled to partner with TCS on developing a quantum imaging platform for non-destructive chip examination. She highlighted that by leveraging their expertise in quantum sensing, they aimed to drive innovation across sectors such as electronics and healthcare, and propel India forward with groundbreaking technologies aligned with the National Quantum Mission’s Quantum Sensing and Metrology vertical. Aligning with National Goals This collaboration aligns perfectly with the National Quantum Mission, an initiative by the Government of India aimed at positioning the nation as a global leader in quantum technology. Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director of IIT-Bombay, highlighted the institute’s commitment to translating research and innovation into impactful technologies through industry collaborations.  Cutting-Edge Applications As semiconductor chips continue to shrink, traditional sensing methods struggle to detect anomalies with the required precision. The Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager addresses this challenge by imaging magnetic fields to provide non-invasive and non-destructive mapping of semiconductor chips. This innovative approach is comparable to how MRI technology is used in hospitals. The imager utilizes defects in a diamond’s structure, known as Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) centers, along with specialized hardware and software to detect and characterize anomalies in semiconductor chips. Its diagnostic capabilities will significantly impact failure analysis, device development, and optimization processes. Broader Implications and Applications The Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager can identify chip defects such as current leakages and visualize three-dimensional charge flow in multi-layer chips, marking a significant advancement in semiconductor imaging. Its applications extend beyond microelectronics to biological and geological imaging, and fine-scale magnetic field imaging, among others. A Legacy of Collaboration This project builds upon the long-standing partnership between TCS and IIT-Bombay, which dates back to the 1990s. Over the years, the collaboration has included joint research projects, collaborative education programs, internships, and faculty development initiatives. IIT-Bombay was the first institute to join TCS’ Co-Innovation Network, a platform that fosters industry-academia collaboration for innovative solutions. The development of the Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager by IIT-Bombay and TCS signifies a major leap forward in semiconductor technology. By merging their expertise, these institutions are set to revolutionize the quality control of semiconductor chips, driving advancements in multiple sectors and contributing to India's leadership in quantum technology. This initiative not only promises to enhance the efficiency and reliability of electronic devices but also sets the stage for future innovations in quantum sensing and imaging.

29 May 2024
Good News

IIT Madras Collaborates with Munitions India Limited to Develop Smart Ammo for Artillery Guns

In a groundbreaking collaboration, IIT Madras has joined forces with Munitions India Limited (MIL), a defense public sector enterprise, to design and develop smart ammunition for artillery guns. This partnership aims to enhance the accuracy and range of existing shells used in artillery guns, bringing about a potential revolution in modern warfare. Increasing Accuracy and Lethality The primary objective of this collaboration is to significantly improve the accuracy of the 155mm shell, reducing the circular error probable (CEP) to a mere 10 meters. Currently, indigenous ammunition in India has a CEP of 500 meters. By achieving this ambitious goal, the smart ammunition will ensure precise targeting and minimize collateral damage. Furthermore, the collaboration also seeks to enhance the lethality of the ammunition upon impact. The smart ammunition will be designed to deliver devastating force when hitting the target, increasing its effectiveness on the battlefield. Innovative Features of Smart Ammo The smart ammunition will be compatible with 39 and 45-caliber 155mm artillery guns without requiring any modifications to the existing gun systems. It will feature a fin-stabilized, canard-controlled, and guided shell. With a maximum range of 38 kilometers and a minimum range of 8 kilometers, it will provide enhanced operational capabilities for artillery units. The ammunition will incorporate three-mode fuse operation, allowing for point detonation, height of burst, and delayed detonation functionalities. These features will offer greater flexibility in engaging different types of targets and adapting to varying tactical scenarios. Utilizing the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), the smart ammunition will have an independent guidance system. This reliance on indigenous satellite technology ensures independence from foreign governments' satellite systems and strengthens India's self-reliance in defense capabilities. The Research and Development Process A dedicated research team led by Prof. G Rajesh from the Department of Aerospace Engineering at IIT Madras will spearhead the development of the smart ammunition. The team will focus on integrating advanced technologies such as miniaturized electronics, sensors, and mechanical structures into the ammunition's design. The shell's components will include guidance, navigation, and control systems, roll isolation strategies, canard actuation systems, fuze, shell body, and warhead. These intricate technological elements will work together to ensure the precision and effectiveness of the smart projectile. Munitions India Limited's Expertise Munitions India Limited, a state-owned defense company, specializes in the production, testing, research, development, and marketing of a wide range of ammunition and explosives for the armed forces. With MIL's expertise in conventional ammunition manufacturing and IIT Madras' prowess in developing guidance systems, the collaboration aims to pave the way for MIL's expansion into modern ammunition manufacturing with cutting-edge technologies. A Paradigm Shift in Artillery Warfare The development of smart ammunition through the collaboration between IIT Madras and Munitions India Limited marks a significant milestone in indigenization and technological advancement in the defense sector. By enhancing the accuracy, range, and lethality of artillery guns, this technology has the potential to reshape the landscape of artillery warfare. As India strengthens its self-reliance in the defense industry, the development of smart ammunition represents a leap forward in achieving strategic autonomy and bolstering national security.

9 Feb 2024
Good News

IIT Madras Makes History with First Woman Director at Zanzibar Campus

In a groundbreaking achievement, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has not only established its first offshore campus in Zanzibar but has also made history by appointing its first-ever woman director. Preeti Aghalayam, an esteemed alumna of IIT Madras, has been selected as the director-in-charge of the Zanzibar campus, marking a significant step towards gender inclusivity in the prestigious institution. The inauguration of the Zanzibar campus, scheduled for October, is a momentous occasion for IIT Madras, as it becomes the first IIT to establish an international campus. The signing of a memorandum of understanding between India and Tanzania has paved the way for this transformative venture. Aghalayam, a chemical engineering graduate from IIT Madras, expressed her deep sense of honor in being a part of this monumental initiative. She highlighted the importance of promoting gender balance and acknowledged the substantial representation of women in Zanzibar, inspiring the need for a mindful approach in establishing the campus. Having completed her BTech from IIT Madras and PhD from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Aghalayam has excelled in her career as a postdoctoral researcher at MIT and as faculty at IIT Bombay. Since joining IIT Madras in 2010, she has been a professor in the Chemical Engineering department. Her exceptional contributions have garnered recognition, and she was recently honored as one of the 75 Women in STEM by the Principal Scientific Advisor's office. Beyond her academic achievements, Aghalayam is an avid marathon runner, blogger, and advocate for women in science. She believes that society should embrace young women making their own choices and confront the biases that women in STEM fields face. In an interview with SheThePeople.TV, she emphasized the need for greater openness and support for women pursuing careers in science and technology. As the Zanzibar campus embarks on its journey, with Preeti Aghalayam at the helm, it sets a powerful precedent for gender equality in the realm of higher education. With this groundbreaking achievement, IIT Madras reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive and progressive academic environment, empowering women to excel in STEM fields and beyond.

11 Jul 2023
Good News

Now You Can Breathe Easy as CSIR-IITR's Breakthrough Technology Set to Transform Pollution Control!

In a groundbreaking initiative, the CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (IITR) is spearheading the development of a cutting-edge device to tackle ambient air pollution more effectively than existing anti-smog guns and smog towers. What sets this device apart is its ability to not only reduce PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations but also target gaseous pollutants, a feature absent in current air pollution reduction technologies. Ambient (outdoor) air pollution poses a significant threat to human health, contributing to a range of diseases such as stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory ailments like asthma. It is a pervasive issue affecting individuals worldwide, irrespective of income levels. With a generous grant of Rs 34.79 lakh from the DST-Science and Research Engineering Board (SERB), the CSIR-IITR has successfully designed and developed this groundbreaking device. The institute has now entrusted an external agency with the fabrication process. Dr. B. Sreekanth, the brilliant mind behind the device and assistant professor of the environmental monitoring division at CSIR-IITR, expressed the need for a more advanced solution to address the shortcomings faced by existing air purification devices. Previous technologies such as CSIR-NEERI's WAYU and IIT Bombay's Smog-Tower encountered obstacles during field evaluations due to their unwieldy size, high power requirements, and demanding maintenance. Recognizing the demand for a competent and upgraded device, CSIR-IITR has taken on the challenge of creating a new and improved solution. This groundbreaking device promises to revolutionize the fight against air pollution and pave the way for enhanced air quality. As the project progresses, the world eagerly awaits the positive impact it will have on our environment and well-being.

5 Jun 2023
Good News

Revolutionizing Transportation: Discover the Latest Innovation in Urban Travel

The Indian Institute of Technology- Madras has developed an electric flying taxi that promises to revolutionize urban travel. The ePlane company, a start-up founded by the premier institution, showcased the electric flying taxi at the Aero India event held in Bengaluru. The electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVOTL) model offers a range of around 200 km on a single charge and can travel at speeds between 150 kmph and 200 kmph. The electric flying taxi has been designed to ease urban travel and is claimed to be ten times faster than cars. According to the startup, the electric flying taxi requires only 25 square meters of space to stay parked and weighs around 200 kg. It comes equipped with four ducted fans as its propellers and can accommodate two passengers per ride. The flying taxi is perfect for roof-top to roof-top urban air mobility in any city and offers a hassle-free travel experience. To build the prototype, the ePlane Corporation has raised about $1 million. Although the business plans to eventually offer autonomous technology, the electric flying taxi still needs a pilot to fly. According to the firm, the price per passenger for a single trip will be around twice as much as what Uber typically costs for the same distance. The electric flying taxi is a step forward in sustainable urban transportation, offering an alternative to the traditional modes of transport. With its impressive speed and range, it has the potential to revolutionize urban travel, making it quicker and hassle-free. 

1 Mar 2023
Good News

A Breath of Fresh Air: IIT Bombay Develops Innovative Model to Reduce Air Pollution

Air pollution has been an ongoing problem in cities across India, particularly in Mumbai. To reduce air pollution, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) have developed a new model called Pavitra. This user-friendly tool is designed to help stakeholders decide how best to reduce fine particle (PM2.5) pollution on different scales such as city, regional, and state levels.  The initiative is a collaborative effort between IIT Bombay, the University of California Berkeley, the University of Washington, and the Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP). It has also been funded by US-based Open Philanthropy with a grant of $3 million. The model, named InMAP, is an open-source air quality model which can be run on a web platform or a desktop computer. It is user-friendly and provides scientifically sound information on the benefits of air pollution interventions. This will allow various stakeholders to get involved in the policy debate, including university scholars, non-profits, think-tanks, industries, regulatory bodies and the citizens. The project will also help build critical mass in a user community in India by creating an indigenous hub at IIT Bombay and CSTEP for model development and capacity building. By providing this type of scientifically backed tool, IIT Bombay hopes to improve air quality in India and reduce the health risks posed by air pollution.

27 Jan 2023
Good News

Revolutionising Mobile Security: BharOS, an Indigenous Mobile Operating System

JandK Operations Pvt Ltd, an incubated firm of the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT Madras), has developed a mobile operating system named 'Bharos', which can be used on commercial off-the-shelf handsets.  IIT Madras director V Kamakoti said that this innovative system promises to revolutionize the way users think about security and privacy on their mobile devices. He added that in order to boost the use and adoption of BharOS throughout the nation, they look forward to cooperating closely with many more private enterprises, governmental organizations, strategic agencies, and telecom service providers. This system is designed to provide users with more freedom, control and flexibility to choose and use only the apps that are needed, so that the users can handle sensitive information with confidential communication on restricted apps on mobiles.  Bharos does not come with any default apps and provides access to private cloud services and app stores that have been thoroughly vetted for security and privacy standards.  Additionally, it also provides 'Native Over the Air' (NOTA) updates which keeps devices secure and up-to-date.

25 Jan 2023
Good News

IIT Professor Wins an International Award for This Amazing Invention!

Professor Thalappil Pradeep of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, has found a groundbreaking technique that makes clean groundwater accessible to hundreds of people across the country who currently reside in areas with contaminated water. He won the VinFuture Prize for "Innovators from Developing Countries" for his work on this low-cost groundwater filtration technology.  In order to provide clean water, Professor Pradeep discovered inexpensive, environmentally safe nanoparticles. When these materials eliminate contaminants like arsenic, they have no negative effects on the environment. This technique uses simplistic designs and offers a low-cost means of purifying groundwater and distributing it to millions of affected households. This approach is more useful in remote locations because it doesn't require energy. Professor Pradeep received the award at a ceremony held in Hanoi, Vietnam on December 20. Speaking to India Today, Professor Pradeep stated, “I am aware of the huge gap yet to be bridged to deliver clean water to everyone. I hope that this recognition will help in realizing that dream. I thank my institute, which gave me everything. I thank my country, which made me stand up".  Professor Pradeep was one of 1,000 innovators from 71 nations who were nominated. He has previously received a number of prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri, the Nikkei Asia Prize, and the Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water. Thanks to his innovations, more than 1.2 crore people now have access to clean water. 

4 Jan 2023
Good News

First Electric Racing Car From IIT Madras Rolled Out by Students’ ‘Raftar Formula Racing’ Team

The first electric formula racing car from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) was unveiled on Monday. Built by Team Raftar students, the formula car “RF23” is the outcome of a year-long process of design, manufacture, and testing. Team Raftar - one of the competition teams of the Centre For Innovation (CFI) at IIT Madras - is made up of 45 students from ten departments representing various disciplines. The institute has been engaged in research about combustion engines for a long time. RF23 is an endeavor in the shift away from combustion engines to electric vehicles. Speaking to newspersons, IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti said that this project will help to develop the next level of electric vehicle technology. Due to the higher power produced by an electric motor, the team anticipates improvements in speed and lap times on RF23 compared to the older Internal Combustion Engine model. Kamakoti revealed that the next project would be on autonomous (driverless) cars and work on that project will start next year. Like RF23, technologies in the autonomous race car will be put to various stress tests, he said. IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti while unveiling the car said that he is hopeful that the car will be number one in various competitions. The team is eager to represent India on an international stage, establishing industry-standard engineering practices and strengthening engineering students' practical technical knowledge.  

29 Nov 2022
Good News

IIT Madras Develops a Revolutionary Wheelchair That Helps Differently-Abled Persons to Stand

Imagine the discomfort of people bound to wheelchairs for a long duration. They are unable to stand without assistance and therefore, do not adopt the standing position as frequently as they wish to. Being in a seated position for a long time leads to other health problems like poor blood circulation and pressure sores. Now, they can heave a sigh of relief as IIT Madras has invented a wheelchair that will help them to stand on their own. IIT Madras in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India’s first indigenously designed standing wheelchair which enables a differently-abled person to shift to a standing position without any assistance and in a controlled manner. Called ‘Arise’ the standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, researchers, students, staff and faculty of IIT Madras. Standing Function Arise is designed in such a way that the user when seated, can actuate it to standing position by the power of his/her arms. With optimal one-time fitting, the effort required is no more than that required to propel the wheelchair. A gas-spring was a key element in reducing the effort expended by the user. The prototype was first tested by able-bodied persons. Safety Features Many safety features have been incorporated into Arise which includes the interlocking mechanism. This mechanism ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state even if the knee block is not in position. The dimensions of Arise were made adjustable and adequate safety features were incorporated. To ensure that the device would be rugged and of high quality, rigorous mechanical testing was done. This wheelchair will be a boon to differently-abled persons who use a wheelchair as they will have the ability to stand on their own at their will without any assistance from others. Image Source: Inceptive Mind Video Courtesy: Tech Tak

22 Nov 2019
Good News

This Amazing Bio Brick Can Absorb Carbon Dioxide!

People are nowadays becoming more aware of the need to conserve and protect the environment and are coming up with eco-friendly alternatives for the existing conventional products. One such person is  Priyabrata Rautray , a Ph.D. scholar in the Design Department of IIT-Hyderabad, who along with other research scientists, has designed and developed a brick from sugarcane bygasse,  a dry pulpy fibrous residue left after the cane is crushed for its juices. Eco-friendly Brick The bio-bricks made from sugarcane bygasse are eco-friendly as they are sustainable and act as carbon sinks. The bricks can absorb more carbon dioxide than they produce. A single brick is made from 900 grams of sugarcane residue which if burnt would release 639 grams of carbon dioxide causing environmental pollution. The good news is that the bio brick can also absorb carbon dioxide to the extent of 322.2 grams of carbon dioxide per brick. Brick Making Process The farm waste like paddy straw or sugarcane bygasse is used to make these eco-friendly bricks. The bagasse is chopped up, added to a fine lime-based slurry, and mixed thoroughly - either by hand or a mechanical mixer - to create a homogenous mixture. These bricks are then poured in moulds of desired shapes and left to dry in the sun for 15-20 days. It is air-dried for one month and then they are ready to be used in low-cost housing with a combination of wooden or metal structures. An added advantage of these bricks is that they provide good insulation from heat and sound, and also maintains the temperature of the house.

25 Oct 2019
Good News

This Remarkable Invention When Attached to a Car Exhaust Significantly Bring Down Air Pollution

Vehicular pollution is one of the major causes of air pollution across the globe. Thankfully, an IIT engineer gives us hope as he has developed a device that can absorb minute particles and reduce the levels of pollution to a great extent. The Device The device has been conceived and made by Debayan Saha who has been a Global Biodesign Fellow at Stanford University. The device is named -2.5 and can be attached to the exhaust of the vehicle. The main component of vehicular pollution is PM 2.5 which is hazardous because of its very minute size that can enter the lungs and bloodstream. According to Saha, a car fitted with - 2.5 can control pollution caused by 10 cars in its vicinity. Technology The technology of this remarkable device involves the use of both electric energy and wave energy to act on pollutants like PM 2.5 in such a way that they act like a magnet attracting other particulate pollutants from the ambient atmosphere to get attached to it. As more and more pollutants get attached to it they become bigger and heavy. Eventually, they fall off safely on the ground like soil. Saha is in talks with various organizations to commercialize this product. If he succeeds, it can be used for the benefit of the environment and mankind.  

23 Oct 2019
Good News

A Sustainable Business, That Upscales Discarded Shoes and Provides Them to the Needy Is Gaining Momentum Through GreenSole

Two friends who bonded over running couldn’t have imagined that their simple idea would snowball into a big business that would not only benefit a large number of people but also will be good for the environment. Ramesh Dhami and Shriyans Bhandari trained under a common coach. Hardcore running would wear out their shoes very fast and they had to discard their shoes every few months. Ramesh who came from a less privileged family didn’t wear footwear for most part of his life. One day, finding that the soles of the worn-out shoes are in good condition he fixed rubber trips to it and transformed them into slippers. Every year about 35 crore pairs of shoes are discarded globally adding to a landfill; while according to the World Health Organization, about 1.5 billion people go shoeless and pick up soil-transmitted infections. When Bhandari saw his friend recycle a discarded shoe into a usable slipper, an idea clicked in his mind. After a few brainstorming sessions, the two friends came up with the technology and skill to refurbish discarded shoes which they then donated to the needy. In a month, they were selected among the top 30 innovators by the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, Ahmedabad. They also won many other design and sustainability competitions including the IIT-Bombay Eureka competition. They won a few lakhs in prize money with which they registered their company GreenSole and bagged their first order from real estate firm JLL as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR). Then, there was no looking back. They secured many more orders and now they upcycle about 70,000 shoes every year. Thus the duo who had zero experience in the footwear industry is now sought by organizations for their excellent product that provides environmental, social and economic benefits. Image Source: Entrepreneur  

10 Oct 2019
Good News

A Bacteria in Soil That Removes Pesticide!

We all know of the harmful effects that pesticides have on our soil. The chemicals in the pesticides kill the good microbes present in the soil and thereby, soil loses its fertility. Studies have suggested that they might also be carcinogenic. The good news is that researchers at Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay have identified a strain of bacteria in soil that actually breaks down and helps to eliminate the carbaryl pesticide. Why Pesticides Are Harmful Numerous tests and experimental studies in laboratory animals have suggested that carbaryl pesticide may probably be carcinogenic to humans. Yet, its use is rampant in the agricultural sector. Carbaryl also leads to pollution of both soil and water ecosystems How Bacteria Works The newly identified bacterial strain utilizes carbon and nitrogen for its growth.  It acts on carbaryl to generate 1-naphthol and methylamine which are sources of carbon and nitrogen respectively. There are some microbes that have been known to degrade carbaryl, but this bacteria which comes under the Pseudomonas genus could completely degrade the pesticide at a rate that is four to five times faster than other bacterial strains. It has been found that the soil with a high concentration of carbaryl is conducive to the growth of this bacteria. Dr Prashant S. Phale who is an author of the study explained that nature acts as a laboratory of its own where organisms in an ecosystem interact with each other and exchange genetic material for their benefit and survival.  

18 Sep 2019
Good News

Artificial Intelligence to Help Conserve Wildlife in UP

Artificial intelligence is gradually pervading all walks of life and now it will also help in preserving wildlife and forests which is the need of the hour. A team of Artificial Intelligence experts from IIT Kanpur visited the Dudhwa national park to understand the constraints faced by the front end staff. Taking into consideration all the problems faced in the forest, they will be developing technological solutions to counter the difficulties. AI-Based Technology The IIT experts spent a few days at the reserve and demonstrated the use of various available technologies like 3D LiDAR which helps in mapping the forests and various parameters of trees like density, diameter, height and numbers. They also demonstrated the use of AI-based vision technology for the identification and counting of animals, behavioural study and analysis as well as generation of alerts for timely rescue of injured animals. Challenges Faced The IIT experts have got an idea of the challenges faced in the forest which include tracking illegal felling of trees. One of the biggest challenges faced is the risk of man-animal conflict. The forest officials have asked the experts to develop a system that would alert them whenever an animal strays out of the forest so that the response time is minimal and the animal can be rescued at the earliest. These joint efforts of the UP forest department and the IIT experts will definitely lead to the forests being monitored by an AI-based system thus assisting in the conservation of forests and biodiversity.  

21 Aug 2019
Good News

IIT Bombay Go Traditional With Kurta Pyjama at Convocation

In a comeback of tradition, the students of IIT Bombay ditched black robes and ceremonial headgear and wore white kurta pyjama at their 57th convocation on Saturday. The traditional wear was in response to the instruction by the University Grants Commission to the vice-chancellors of all the universities to adopt "ceremonial robes made out of handloom fabrics which would not only give a sense of pride of being Indian but also be more comfortable in hot and humid weather". Chief Guest The Union Minister of Human Resource Development, Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' presided as the chief guest at the event. Speaking on the occasion, he said that education is a 'weapon' which can transform the lives of students, their families and society. He said that IITs have an important role to play in the goal of establishing India as the world leader in education within the next five years. Convocation Degrees were awarded to 2,603 students besides 385 PhDs, two joint PhDs of IIT-B/National University of Singapore and one Cotutelle PhD (Joint Supervision) agreement with the University du Quebec a Trois-Revieres in Canada. The minister also awarded four gold medals to students for top performances. Pokhriyal commended IIT Bombay for its achievement of being ranked among the Top 200 in the QS World University ranking. Infosys co-founder and chairman Nandan Nilekani who is also an alumnus of IIT Bombay was conferred an honorary doctoral degree by IIT Bombay. Image Source: Shiksha.com  

13 Aug 2019
Good News

IIT Hyderabad Scientists Came Up with Inexpensive and Environment-Friendly Solar Cells Using Vermilion

When it comes to inventions and innovations, The Indian Institute to technology always takes a step ahead. Most of the times solar cells require a lot of heat to process which leads to carbon footprints and in order to avoid all of that the scientists of IIT Hyderabad have developed something incredible. Cost-Effective Way of Developing Solar Cells Which Are Also Eco-Friendly With the help of kumkum dye, the scientists have developed solar cells which are environment-friendly and are also cost-effective. Professor Sai Santosh Kumar Raavi of Physics department, IIT Hyderabad stated that the magenta-dye, New Fuchsin which is employed by his team is used to make vermilion when grounded by turmeric. It’s not only cheap and non-toxic but, is also soluble in water and does not even degrade in its presence as reported by PTI. The Components The dye-sensitized solar cell has a monolayer of the dye molecule, titanium dioxide, and a liquid electrolyte. The dye molecules absorb sunlight and get excited, then the electrons from the excited dye molecule get injected into the conduction band of TiO2.  While elaborating, Ravi said: "The electrons are transported to the charge collector. The dye cation (after losing its electron) takes an electron from the surrounding electron-rich liquid electrolyte. The counter electrode, typically, is platinum-coated ITO.” PTI reported. The cost-effective solar cells are going to be highly beneficial for the environment and we are glad that the scientists of IIT Hyderabad came up with something like this.

1 Aug 2019
Good News

IIT Students Developed a Device Which Can Clean Sanitary Napkins and Reduces Biomedical Waste

Recently we spoke about how nine students from IIT Madras came up with a smart bin to manage waste while we also highlighted iSAFE a 24x7 Pan-India roadside assistance platform launched by IIT Delhi students. And now we have learned that two students from IIT Bombay and IIT Goa have come up with a great invention. They have developed a device to clean reusable sanitary napkins in order to curb down biomedical waste. A Device to Make a Difference The device created by Aishwarya Agarwal from IIT Bombay and Devyani Maladkar from IIT Goa is called Cleanse Right which will be priced at Rs 1,500. It does not require any electricity for its functionality it rather has a pedal-operated plunger which will go upside down in a water-filled chamber. While talking about how it will function, Devyani told PTI, "The plungers squeeze out menstrual blood from cloth pads while rinsing them with water. The device is designed to be inexpensive. It can also be used to wash other hygiene concerned garments like baby clothes.” Devyani and Aishwarya have already filed a patent for the device. They showcased their product in an annual summer programme at IIT Gandhinagar called “Invent@IITGN. Menstruation is still a taboo in our country but, the world is changing now. It’s good to see youngsters like Devyani and Aishwarya coming up with an incredible device which can actually reduce the amount of disposable sanitary napkins that lands up in the waste grounds. They are true inspirations for the present and upcoming generation.

30 Jul 2019
Good News

IIT Madras Students Make Waste Management Easy

You and I can lead a much healthy life if each one of us starts managing our waste. The environment can benefit from it too, isn’t it? But, did you know of any machine that can segregate waste on its own? Nine students from IIT Madras developed a smart bin, Automatic Waste Segregator which has four sections for the different types of waste. It also has motor and sensors which help identify the waste and push it in one of the sections. While talking to TOI about its development, Pranjal Mehta who looked after the business part along with Hari Ramachandran said: “We have used hydrophobic coating on the robotic arms that pushes the waste into the bin, without which there are chances of liquid waste sticking onto it. We have placed sensors like capacitive sensors, resistive sensors, inductive proximity sensor and ultrasonic sensors, and there is a camera, too, on top of it.” The technology aspect of the machine was taken care of by the other seven students, Varun Sundar, Arvind Pujari, Rohith Srinivaas, Vishnu Harshit, Iniyan Ram, Tanay Garg, and Sai Venkat. TOI also reported that the students behind this project will share their ideas regarding it at both national and international levels at Hult Prize by The Bill Clinton Foundation. It just takes 10 seconds for the smart bin to identify the waste and drop it in its section. A total of RS 40,000 has been spent to manufacture it and project has already been run as a pilot in Kalakshetra Colony. Did you ever think that something like this would be created? Thanks to the minds behind this development for making waste management easy.

9 Jul 2019
Good News

For The First Time Insight The Wonderful World Of Research

For the first time on Friday, more than 40 laboratories in the IIT Madras, where researchers are working on cutting-edge technologies, opened its doors for public. This initiative has been undertaken as art of Shastra 2018 tech fest. PhD scholars working on a host of projects welcomed students from other colleges to their labs. From a hand-held device to detect adulteration in milk to testing of the aerodynamics of projectiles and studying the reaction of human body to ayurvedic therapies, students got an insight into the state-of-art facilities and were excited to interact with the researchers.  

5 Jan 2018
Good News

IIT Bombay Takes Steps To Become Women Friendly

IIT Bombay is planning to promote the success stories of its students and alumni to school going girls with the intent of increasing the presence of women on campus. It is also mulling over allowing flexi-hours and work from home options for researchers with younger children. The university will take up 10 research projects with local and state governments so that students can engage with society and industry. It is also planning to incubate at least five start-ups and commercialize 10 patents in a year.

3 Jan 2018
Good News

Gather 6 Onion Peels And Charge Your Laptop Or Mobile Phone

The moment we say peeling of onions we recollect the boring task that brings tears to one's eyes. But now it's time to change your state of mind as a research team from IIT Kharagpur and South Korea has generated electricity from these onion peels. This research has truly surprised many and each one is compelled to think how is this possible...The researchers have an answer to all these. They have developed biodegradable energy harvesters from onion skin waste. As per research done by Prof. Bhanu Bhusan Khatua and his team at MSC, only half an inch of onion peel can be enough to generate 20 volts of electricity! So, if you gather 6 such onion peels and place them in a series then together they can light-up 80 LED’s or charge your laptop or mobile phone! This idea came to their mind with a thought of making nanogenerators which is biocompatible and biodegradable that can be used for healthcare applications. So this promoted them to carry out the research work which gave them an idea of using onion skin which has a cellular-based structure and is thrown away as garbage. By using these onion peels one can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy can generate power with body movements like the tapping of fingers and throat vibrations.  So henceforth brave the teary eyes and chop some onions, the onion peels will reward you for your courage by producing electricity for your entire home!

1 Dec 2017
Good News

IIT Kharagpur Upgrades Its Sports Facilities

As IIT Kharagpur is gearing up to host the inter IIT 2019, it has taken steps to promote sports activities among its students.The institute has allocated Rs. 10 crore for upgrading and renovating sports activities in addition to Rs 1.5 crore allocated by the Institute towards the annual sports budget.The upgradation includes building two synthetic courts each for tennis, basketball and volleyball, one synthetic athletic track, an indoor stadium with a food court. There already exists a stadium for athletics, ground for cricket and soccer, several outdoor courts for tennis, basketball and volleyball and a swimming pool in the Institute. Tennis has also received a major thrust at IIT Kharagpur as US-based alumnus and entrepreneur Vinod Gupta has roped in US-based Tennis professional T J Hyman, erstwhile coach of ace Tennis player Leander Paes, to start a training program for Tennis enthusiasts at IIT Kharagpur. William Mohanty, president of Technology Students’ Gymkhana said that sports activities help to strengthen the wellness initiatives as well. Sports tend to inculcate qualities like resonance, leadership, discipline, decision-making, facing challenges etc. He added that students who enroll in NSO Sports, Inter-IIT and Inter-Hall Sports General Championships at IIT Kharagpur, exhibit these qualities at a deep level and are much more resistant to the negative thought process.  

21 Nov 2017
Good News

What is so Special About the Festival of Joy Of Giving Celebrated by the IIT-Ms

There is great joy in giving. The joy spreads not only to the recipients but also to the givers. This was experienced by the students of the Indian Institute of Technology- Madras as they celebrated Daan Utsav with a thanksgiving lunch for the institute's support staff on Wednesday.  The support staff comprising of security guards, cleaning staff, mess workers, bus drivers and others were glad to be a part of the celebrations. The events of the festival are being organized by the IIT-Madras Branding Cell of International and Alumni Relations Student Council. IIT- Madras is celebrating the festival for the second time. It began on Monday and will continue till October 8. The students of the International and Alumni Secretariat have actively participated with IIT-M’s Daan Utsav for the past two years. They have also come up with some great, thoughtful initiatives. It’s dean Prof R Nagarajan stated that just as their alumni gives back to society by creating jobs and boosting the economy, so do their students-- albeit in a different context. There are more events on the way which includes beautifying Velachery railway station with the help of Fine Arts Club on October 7, informal games in collaboration with Hindi Mitra Mandal and donations to the Cancer Institute.

7 Oct 2017
Good News

Kanpur boy youngest to enrol at an IIT

Abhay Agarwal who is only 15 years of age, managed to clear the JEE Advanced and has been allotted a seat at IITBHU after scoring 2467 All India Rank making him probably the youngest person to enroll at an IIT. Usually, students prepare for their class X boards at the age of 15, but Abhay was the youngest teenager at IIT-Kanpur who was verifying his documents for admission. Staff members of IIT Kanpur were surprised to know the age of the young boy and so was the Vice-chairman of IIT-JEE Kanpur zone Prof Shalabh, who was pleased to meet the boy. A staffer said that Abhay could be the youngest to join IIT as his Std Xth mark sheet confirms his age as 15 and a half years. Having been keenly interested in robotics, Abhay wants to pursue mechanical engineering. He said that he was able to jump initial classes and therefore, could complete his XII before other students. His proud father Mukesh Agarwal who works as a pump attendant at Firozabad Nagar Nigam praised his son as a talented boy with high capabilities. The teenager is very disciplined in his approach towards his studies and stayed away from social media while preparing for the competition. His aim is to launch a start up which deals with robotics products.  

2 Jul 2017
Good News

IIT Kanpur students defy convention, don Indian attire for convocation

IIT Kanpur students on Thursday turned a new leaf when, for the first time in its history, they dressed in Indian ethnic attire instead of the ceremonial black robes and headgears. IIT-K Director, Professor Indranil Manna said that for the first time, students received their degrees at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) not in the British-time gowns and headgears, but in kurta pajamas (for boys) and kurta-salwar (for girls) along with stoles in different colours to mark their specific courses. He stated that henceforth, the students will wear Indian clothes in all future convocations. Tata Sons chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran presented the degrees to 673 students of B Tech and 136 students of BS (Bachelor of Science)   The convocation ceremony coincided with the golden jubilee of the institute and to mark the occasion, professors of the institute wore golden coloured robes over their suits. Manna also said that the students can do away with black leather shoes and are free to use any Indian footwear in leather. It was IIT-K’s 50th convocation. As parents beamed with pride, students clicked their last pictures together before they parted. A pair of traditional graduation gown and headgear was placed outside the main for grads who fancied a picture in it.  

16 Jun 2017
Good News

Army helps Kashmiri students to crack IIT

Apart from countering terrorists and facing young stone pelters, the Indian Army in Kashmir has also been helping locals to clear the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE), India's most competitive engineering entrance exam for admission to IIT ( Indian Institute of Technology). The Army has its own Super 40 batch of bright students to whom they offer intensive coaching so that they are able to crack the entrance exams. For the first time, five girls from the valley had joined the Army's Super-40 batch this year and two of them met with success. They are now eligible for admission to engineering courses in Jamia Millia University and Jamia Hamdard University in Delhi. The other trading partners of the Army for conducting the coaching are Centre for Social Responsibility and Learning (CSRL) and Petronet LNG. The main aim of the project is to help the brilliant, but underprivileged students of Kashmir to achieve academic success. Meenakshi Shai, chief manager of the Army's Super-40 batch project (CSRL) said that the Super - 40 batch has been in existence for the last three years and the number of students clearing the exams has been increasing by the year. Army chief General Bipin Rawat, on Tuesday, met the Super-40 batch and congratulated them.  

14 Jun 2017
Good News

Hard Work and Perseverance Pays for Future IITians

The IIT-JEE (Advanced) 2017 results were declared today.  Sarvesh Mehtani, a student from Chandigarh has topped the nation's premier engineering admissions test, IIT-JEE (Advanced), whereas Pune's Akshat Chugh secured the second position and Delhi's Ananye Agarwal was placed third.  Sarvesh who stood first wrote the exam from IIT Roorkee zone scored 339 marks out of 366, in which he got 120 marks in Maths, 104 in Physics and 115 marks in Chemistry. He was ranked 55th in JEE Main entrance examination. Akshat Chugh from Delhi Public School, Pune, who ranked second in JEE Advanced was ranked 7th in JEE Main 2017. And in a coincidence, Ananye Agarwal from Delhi ranked 3rd in both JEE Main and JEE Advanced this year. When the topper Sarvesh Mehtani a student of Bhavan Vidyalaya, Panchkula, who scored 95.4% in the Class XII boards was asked about his achievement, he said, "I always wanted to be in the top 10. So, when I started preparing for this exam (JEE) two years ago, I gave up my smartphone. But if you have control, you can keep the phone and study."  He also said, "N R Narayana Murthy, the co-founder of Infosys is my role model." And what actually inspired him to become an engineer was the Bollywood blockbuster "3 Idiots" which he saw when he was in Class 8th.  While sharing his success story, he mentions, "Work hard, stay calm and stay organized in whatever you do. I used to study for five to six hours regularly, besides school hours and the coaching center. On holidays, I used to study for more than eight hours, and you have to be regular with your study hours." He added, "It's important to beat stress while preparing for the exam. I used to watch cartoons and listen to music to beat stress. Also, since I had left social media, I used to go for morning and evening walks with my parents. This reduced my stress and kept me fit." The proud parents, Mr. Pravesh Mehtani is an income tax officer, and mother Rajbala is a placement officer at a university. Though they were certain he would definitely come in merit, their happiness had no bounds when their son stood first in the country. They were overwhelmed with his achievement and credited his sincere dedication and hard work. 

12 Jun 2017
Good News

IIT Madras reclaims beaches by applying modern technology to the old

The implementation of modern technology to ancient techniques helped IIT MadrasTeam to successfully reclaim Kerala's beaches that were lost to erosion. The Kerala government had earlier requested them to check erosion along the beaches. The IIT team worked to stop erosion at 25 eroded sites of two km each around 25 coastal villages, thus reclaiming 50 km of Kerala's beaches. Prof V Sundar of department ocean engineering in IIT-M said that the team from his department worked around the Groin Fields technology which was last used in the 1960s in India to stop erosion. This technology was later "completely forgotten". The IIT team blended a carefully designed idea with scientific process into this age old technology which stopped erosion activities from shifting to other areas and curbed erosion altogether. The method involves building a narrow structure out into the water from a beach to prevent erosion. This method can actually recover the land lost to the sea. However, it entails very accurate calculations like quantity of sediments and direction of long-shore currents. Sundar said that conserving the coastline has national and global implications. The fact that India has a vast coastline, doesn't mean that it could be taken for granted. There is an urgent need to conserve beaches and their socio-economic aspects.    

11 Jun 2017
Good News

IIT-GN students to experience rural life

With regards to bridge the gap between rural -urban crowd, Indian Institute of Technology has taken a unique step. It will give its bachelor students a fellowship to experience the rural life. Starting this summer, those budding engineers willing to live in villages for three-six weeks will get a Gram fellowship. This initiative will bring the new age city students near rural life. Around nine students of B.Tech have showed interested in this fellowship. Dean (students) Jaison Manjaly informed that this move aims to bridge the urban-rural divide.  "Majority of the students in IITs are from metros or large cities and they have hardly had a chance to see rural India. They do not know about village life, its problems and the way villagers live. "The Gram Fellowship will provide them an opportunity to visit a village in any part of India, live with a family for a minimum of 3 weeks to a maximum of 6 weeks. The students will work or accompany the persons to workplace — be it farming, business or anything," Manjaly informed.  The institute believes that during the stay with the family in the village, the students will not only get exposed to the rural hardships or people's problems, this project may also inspire them to take up assignments to solve the issues. "However, it is not mandatory. If students like to take up a project to address issues faced by the villagers, they will be provided with Rs 25,000. The fund can be used to develop product, service or any solution," said IITGn Director Sudhir Jain. Rushabh Pravin Desadla (21), one of the students who has opted to visit Hemalkasa village in Maharashtra said that this will be his first experience of living in a village. "I chose this as I want to work with Dr Prakash Amte who works with Madia Goad tribes and other villages apart from setting up an animal park in the village. By working with them, I will be able to understand the problems faced by the villagers and the solutions provided by Amte. This will be a good learning experience," Rushabh said. This is for the first time that IIT-GN has introduced such a fellowship which enables students to travel different states.         

3 May 2017
Good News

 A gift from the alumni to their junior

We have always heard about the freshers party and giving farewell to our seniors in the college. But in a unique way, the alumni of Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar (IIT-GN) are all set to give their junior batch a scholarship. The 2016 batch of IIT-GN has set up an endowment fund to create a scholarship called as Class of 2016 Scholarship’. This scholarship will be an award for the meritorious students in the institute. Around 30 students from115 batch is a part of this endowment fund. The first scholarship has been declared to Danish Mansoor who will receive Rs 2,000 per month for ten consecutive months.   Keeping the names of the donors as anonymous, it is one way to do away with the awkwardness of those students from the batch who are not a part of the endowment fund and do not feel left out. As per the report in The Times of India, IIT-Gn Director, Professor Sudhir Jain, said, "It is heartening that our freshly-minted alumni have started to make regular donations to IIT Gandhinagar. More than the donation, I am glad to see the spirit of our alumni, their developing bond with the institute, and look forward to a continued association." Apart from this scholarship, there are around 750 alumni out of which 10 % are regularly donating to the institute for various causes.  

7 Apr 2017
Good News

Positive Reads

IIT Kanpur Graduate Rajeev Motwani: The Mentor Behind the Creation of Google

In the world of technology, certain individuals leave an indelible mark on the industry. One such individual is Rajeev Motwani, an IIT Kanpur graduate and Stanford University professor, whose mentorship and guidance played a pivotal role in inspiring the creation of Google. From IIT Kanpur to Silicon Valley Rajeev Motwani's journey began at IIT Kanpur, where he developed a passion for mathematics and computer science. Despite his initial desire to become a mathematician, Motwani embraced computer science, recognizing its mathematical foundations. Graduating from IIT Kanpur in 1983, Motwani went on to earn his PhD from the University of California, Berkeley. Motwani's Brilliance and Influence Motwani's brilliance in the field of computer science was widely acknowledged. His pioneering work in data mining and algorithms at Stanford University earned him accolades and recognition, including the prestigious Gödel prize in 2001. Beyond his research, Motwani was actively involved in transforming academic ideas into commercial ventures, making him a respected figure in the technology industry. The Birth of Google: Motwani's Role It was during Motwani's tenure at Stanford University that he encountered Sergey Brin and Larry Page, two Stanford students with a vision for a revolutionary web search engine. Motwani recognized the potential in their ideas and became an informal advisor to the duo. His expertise in data mining and algorithms played a vital role in shaping the search engine system that would eventually become Google. Motwani's Influence on Google's Founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page credit Motwani as a key figure in their research, education, and professional development. Motwani's guidance and support were instrumental in helping Brin and Page navigate the challenges they faced while developing Google. Despite not officially being their advisor, Motwani's impact on their work was profound. Motwani, along with Professor Jeff Ulman, played a crucial role in forming the research group MIDAS at Stanford University. This collaborative effort laid the foundation for the development of Google. Through MIDAS, Motwani, Brin, and Page worked together on research projects, including the development of the PageRank algorithm that became the foundation of Google's search engine. Motwani's Legacy and Beyond Google Although Motwani's legacy is closely tied to his involvement with Google, his impact extended far beyond the search engine giant. He became a well-respected advisor and investor, supporting numerous startups and companies, including PayPal and Sequoia Capital. Motwani's network of innovators and investors made him a sought-after mentor in Silicon Valley. Remembering Rajeev Motwani Tragically, Rajeev Motwani's life was cut short in 2009 when he drowned in an accident. However, his contributions to the field of computer science and his role in inspiring the birth of Google continue to be remembered and celebrated. Motwani was hailed as one of the smartest individuals in Silicon Valley, leaving behind an incredible legacy as a scientist, innovator, and mentor.

19 Jan 2024
Positive Reads

CSM Tech and IIT-M Raftar Team Speed Up for the Ultimate Electric Race Car!

CSM Tech, a leading IT company, has joined forces with the Raftar team from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) to create the world's fastest autonomously driven electric race car by 2025. The collaboration aims to leverage shared expertise and resources, accelerate research and development, mitigate risks, and promote standardization and knowledge exchange. Raftar, a passionate motorsports team comprising over 40 students from various disciplines at IIT-M, takes on the challenge of constructing a high-speed Formula Student race car annually. Through the partnership with CSM Tech, the team anticipates becoming a game-changer in passenger and heavy vehicles, telemetry, vehicle tracking, and more. Priyadarshi Pany, the founder and CEO of CSM Tech, expressed excitement about collaborating with IIT-M and highlighted the extraordinary potential of the institution's students and faculty. Pany believes that the team's expertise in indigenously built electronics, embedded technologies, and cross-domain knowledge will lead to the next big innovation in the automobile industry, originating from India. Since its inception in 2012 as a student club dedicated to building a combustion-driven sportscar, the Raftar team has achieved remarkable success, winning the Formula Bharat event, the country's premier motorsports competition for educational institutions, thrice. They have also made their mark in events like Formula Germany and established their prowess in the university-level combustion and electric vehicle categories. Prof. Manu Santhanam, Dean of Industry Contribution and Sponsored Research at IIT-M, emphasized the crucial role of industry partners in empowering engineering ecosystems. He applauded the Raftar team for their determination, temperament, and exceptional execution of complex projects.

4 Sep 2023
Positive Reads

Star Citizens

Meet Chennai’s Oldest Camerawoman

“Things become easy when you put effort into it” -says Navaneetham, who has been running a photo studio for the past 30 years. During her journey, she says that taking photos back in the day wasn't easy but now the element of fear isn't there since the arrival of digital cameras. She believes that the advancement of modern technology has made things significantly easier.  The name of her studio is Rainbow Studios which is situated in Perambur, Chennai. Her Son taught her photography. She is now 66 years old and being at home is not something she enjoys. People her age spend time at temples or home - she is here to break the stereotypes. For her, the studio means the world for her spirited actions to come to life. She gets a lot of appreciation from customers for how she runs the studio without taking any day off. This brave and hard-working lady sets a primary example of being adaptable to external forces. By this entire success story, we got to learn a lot of lessons to note down and apply them to our lives. The wisdom that life bestows upon us, guiding us toward fresh beginnings whenever we embrace them, is the most potent instrument at our disposal for achieving success.We must always keep in mind that nothing that stands in our way will stay there for long, regardless of what has happened in our life or how strongly it has affected us. We hope that all of the changes that occur in our life are positive ones. As humans, we are not always able to see that everything will work out for the best. However, with good thoughts and support from others, we shouldn't worry because it won't last forever. The very first question a customer asks is “Do you know how to take photos?” Despite this, when they actually see her work they feel delighted. Yes, indeed by her dedication and level of precision she is able to retain a lot of customers. Meeting deadlines and giving full attention to the assigned tasks is really a skillful job to carry on everyday!

8 Nov 2023
Star Citizens

DRDO Scientist Overcomes Odds to Achieve Dream Position

In a remarkable display of determination and resilience, 28-year-old Vanam Rajyalakshmi has shattered barriers and achieved her dream of becoming a scientist at the prestigious Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Bengaluru. Hailing from Illanda village, Rajyalakshmi faced numerous challenges on her path to success. Growing up in a community that relied on weaving as a profession, she defied societal expectations and pursued her passion for science. Tragedy struck her family at a young age when she lost her mother in a road accident in 2004. Despite the hardships, Rajyalakshmi's father, Sadanandam, a weaver, supported her education and ensured she had the resources to continue her studies. She excelled academically, earning an 'A grade' in Class 10 and catching the attention of her teacher, Srinivas, who recommended her for admission to IIIT-Basara. Rajyalakshmi completed her BTech in Computer Science Engineering and went on to pursue her MTech from Hyderabad Central University (HCU). With her postgraduate studies completed, she set her sights on joining DRDO and worked tirelessly to secure a position as a scientist. Her hard work paid off when she received an appointment letter from DRDO on October 9. She officially joined the organization on October 12, warmly welcomed by the Directorate of Personnel (DoP) authorities. Rajyalakshmi's journey is a testament to the power of determination and the unwavering support of her father. She expressed her gratitude for his encouragement and credited her success to her relentless pursuit of knowledge. Starting as a Scientist B, Rajyalakshmi aspires to advance her career and climb the ranks to become a Scientist C, D, E, and F. Her story serves as an inspiration to all, proving that with determination and perseverance, no mountain is too tall to overcome.

22 Oct 2023
Star Citizens

From Widow to Pioneer: The Inspiring Journey of India's First Female Engineer, Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha

Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha, India's first female engineer, overcame tremendous obstacles to achieve her dream of becoming an engineer in a male-dominated field. Lalitha was born in 1919 in Andhra Pradesh and lost her husband at a young age, leaving her to raise their daughter on her own. Despite societal pressures and financial constraints, Lalitha was determined to pursue her education and enrolled in the College of Engineering in Guindy, Madras. She faced numerous challenges and discrimination due to her gender, but she persevered and graduated with a degree in electrical engineering in 1943. After graduation, Lalitha went on to work at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, where she contributed to the development of India's first indigenous airplane engine. She later worked for the Indian Standards Institution and the Central Power Research Institute, where she made significant contributions to the field of power systems engineering. Lalitha's groundbreaking achievements paved the way for future generations of women in engineering and inspired countless others to pursue their dreams despite the odds. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, determination, and courage in the face of adversity.

6 Jul 2023
Star Citizens

Revolutionary Sensor Developed by Indian Scientist to Detect Spoiled Food and Improve Safety

An Indian scientist has developed a new, inexpensive sensor that can detect spoiled food and prevent food waste. Dr. Rashmi Madhuri from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna has created a tiny sensor that can be attached to food packaging to monitor the freshness of the product. The sensor works by detecting the gases emitted by spoiled food, such as ammonia and carbon dioxide, and sends an alert to the user's smartphone when it detects the presence of these gases. This allows consumers to quickly and easily determine whether or not their food is safe to eat, reducing the amount of food waste and promoting food safety. The sensor is also cost-effective that makes it an attractive option for use in developing countries and other areas where access to food safety technologies is limited. The development of this new sensor is a significant breakthrough in the fight against food waste and foodborne illness. According to the United Nations, around one-third of all food produced globally is wasted, while millions of people suffer from foodborne illnesses each year. As the world continues to grapple with issues of food waste and food safety, innovative solutions like this are critical for promoting sustainability and ensuring that everyone has access to safe and nutritious food. Dr. Madhuri's sensor is a promising step forward in this effort and has the potential to make a real difference in the lives of people around the world.

24 Mar 2023
Star Citizens

Meet the Mastermind Behind India's Burgeoning Space Industry

Pawan Kumar Chandana is a leading figure in India's burgeoning space industry as the Co-founder and CEO of Skyroot Aerospace. The company is at the forefront of developing and manufacturing launch vehicles for small satellites, a sector that has seen rapid growth in recent years.   Chandana, who holds a master's degree in Thermal Science & Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, has been passionate about space since childhood. He worked at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for several years before co-founding Skyroot Aerospace in 2018 with fellow IIT Madras graduate Naga Bharath Daka.   Under Chandana's leadership, Skyroot Aerospace has achieved several milestones, including the successful test-firing of its Vikram-1 rocket engine in 2022. The engine, named after Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the Indian space program, uses a unique propulsion technology that reduces the weight and cost of launch vehicles while increasing their efficiency.   Skyroot Aerospace has also secured multiple contracts with the Indian Space Research Organisation and private companies to launch satellites into orbit. The company is currently developing a family of launch vehicles, including the Vikram series and the Rohini series, which can carry payloads of up to 700 kilograms and 3500 kilograms, respectively.   Chandana and Skyroot Aerospace are paving the way for India's space industry, demonstrating that the country has the expertise and technology to compete on a global scale. With Chandana's leadership and vision, Skyroot Aerospace is poised to become a major player in the small satellite launch market, and the future of India's space program looks brighter than ever.

27 Feb 2023
Star Citizens

Rajan Bajaj: The Man Who Founded the Tesla of Credit Cards

Rajan Bajaj is a well-known entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Slice, a fintech company that offers digital credit cards and other financial services to young people in India. Bajaj has been instrumental in revolutionizing the credit and lending industry in India, making it more accessible and user-friendly for millions of young consumers.   Bajaj graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology in Kharagpur in 2014. He noticed that the traditional banking system in India was outdated and failed to cater to the needs of the younger generation. This inspired him to launch Slice in 2016, a company that would make credit more affordable and accessible for young Indians.   Slice offers its customers a digital credit card that can be managed entirely through its mobile app. Customers can use the card to make purchases online or in-store, and can also avail of various discounts and cashback offers. The app also offers users a range of financial services, including instant loans, insurance, and investments.   Under Bajaj's leadership, Slice has become one of the fastest-growing fintech companies in India. The company has raised millions of dollars in funding and has attracted over 10 million users to its platform. Bajaj's innovative approach to credit and lending has helped to bridge the gap between traditional banks and young consumers in India, providing a more convenient and cost-effective way to manage their finances.

21 Feb 2023
Star Citizens

This Super-Mom Turned Into an Urban Farmer To Feed Organic Food to Her Child

We all remember Shah Rukh Khan being a servant leader in Swades, don’t we? A servant leader is someone who dedicates his/her life to society for a noble cause. Subhashree Santhya is one such woman who falls into the same category. She is a mother and urban farmer from Navi Mumbai, India. She is known for her innovative approach to farming and for using urban spaces to grow food. The incredible journey started out of her personal suffering. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Subhashree’s younger son, who was just 6 months old at the time, had to go through heart surgery. Because of this, he was advised a chemical-free and clean diet — basically organic food. Living in a big city like Mumbai, and expecting organic food is a tough task. So, Subhashree decided to turn her balcony into a mini-farm. She used a combination of hydroponics and aquaponics to grow a variety of vegetables and herbs, including lettuce, spinach, and mint. She was able to successfully harvest these crops, and her success motivated her to expand her farming operation. In an interview with HerStory, Subhashree said, “I realized I need to scale it up a bit when several women, mostly mothers with children who had undergone surgeries, asked me to provide them with organic vegetables, especially spinach. But, for this, I needed to be equipped with more knowledge and skills.” Guess her next move… She pursued a master’s degree in sustainable agriculture from IIT Kharagpur. Truly a super-mom! Subhashree now has a small farm in Navi Mumbai, where she grows a variety of fruits and vegetables. She has also set up a kitchen garden at her home, where she grows herbs and spices for use in her cooking. Her work has caught the attention of many people in the area, and she has become a role model for others who are interested in urban farming. She encourages others to use their own spaces to grow food, as she believes “growing your own food makes more sense”

14 Dec 2022
Star Citizens

The First Woman to Bag 3 Top Awards at IIT Madras With Her Academic Brilliance Receives Award From PM Modi

Kavita Gopal scripted history when she became the first girl student of IIT Madras to win the President of India Prize. She was awarded the prize by the prime minister PM Modi for outstanding academic performance on the occasion of the institute’s 56th annual convocation. Earlier this award has been won only by male students. Ms. Gopal won a hattrick as she bagged two more coveted awards- the Bharat Ratna M Vishveswarayya Memorial prize for highest CGPA in B.Tech and the  B Ravichandran memorial prize for highest CGPA in B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering with. Her CGPA is an impressive 9.95.  Early Years Kavita studied in the Atomic Energy Central School in Anupuram until 10th and then joined Kendriya Vidyalaya, Kalpakkam. It was here, in 11th class she was introduced to Computer Science and programming languages as part of her syllabus. She instantly developed a passion for it and then there was no looking back. She joined IIT Madras in 2015. She participated in many inter-college programming contests and excelled in them. She also enjoyed playing basketball. Future Plans Talking to The News Minute, Kavita said that she has some thrilling plans for the future and it involves coding. She is currently working as a software engineer with Google.  According to Kavita, girls who are interested in this field hesitate from joining these courses due to social barriers and gender biases. In her class, there were only 10 girls in the batch of 60 students. She hopes that more and more girls join this field as she believes that the future is computer science – think Artificial Intelligence, Machine learning. While there is a dearth of female students in STEM(Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), we hope that Kavita’s achievement will inspire many to take up this field. Image Source: The News Minute

3 Oct 2019
Star Citizens

The Whys and Hows

Nehru's Visionary Move: How Opening Up IITs, IIMs, AIIMS Transforms India's Future

In a historic move that would go onto shape India's destiny, former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru took a visionary step by establishing the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). These institutions have since become the pillars of India's educational landscape, revolutionizing the nation's future. Nehru's foresight in investing in higher education stemmed from his belief that a scientifically and technologically advanced India would transform the country into a global leader. With this vision, he laid the foundation for a network of premier institutions that would nurture talent, foster innovation, and drive India's progress. The establishment of the first IIT in Kharagpur in 1951 marked the beginning of a new era for Indian engineering. Nehru recognized the importance of providing world-class technical education to Indian students, empowering them to contribute to the nation's development. Today, the IITs are renowned globally for their rigorous academic programs, cutting-edge research, and exceptional graduates who excel in diverse fields, including technology, entrepreneurship, and academia. Similarly, Nehru's vision for management education led to the establishment of the first IIM in Calcutta in 1961. These institutions revolutionized the business landscape in India by producing exceptional leaders who could navigate complex challenges and drive economic growth. Today, the IIMs are synonymous with excellence in management education, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and nurturing future business leaders who spearhead innovation and drive India's economic engine. Nehru's commitment to revolutionizing healthcare in India led to the establishment of AIIMS in 1956. It aimed to bridge the healthcare gap in the country, ensuring access to quality medical education, research, and patient care. AIIMS has since become the epitome of medical excellence, producing world-class doctors, researchers, and healthcare professionals who serve the nation and make significant contributions to global healthcare. The impact of Nehru's educational reforms extends far beyond the walls of these institutions. The IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS have not only produced exceptional professionals but have also fostered a culture of innovation and research. Their alumni have played pivotal roles in transforming India's technological landscape, shaping policies, and contributing to the nation's development in various sectors. The success stories of IIT alumni, such as Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, and N. R. Narayana Murthy, who have excelled in the technology industry globally, are a testament to the transformative power of these institutions. These visionaries have not only made India proud but have also played a crucial role in shaping the global technology ecosystem. The IIMs have nurtured generations of business leaders who have spearheaded innovation, driven entrepreneurship, and shaped the Indian economy. From Indra Nooyi to Raghuram Rajan, the impact of IIM alumni is visible across industries and sectors, creating a positive ripple effect on India's growth story. Likewise, AIIMS alumni have made immense contributions to healthcare, research, and public health. Their expertise and dedication have saved countless lives, advanced medical knowledge, and propelled India's healthcare system to new heights. Nehru's vision and commitment to education and nation-building have left an indelible mark on India's development trajectory. The IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS continue to be beacons of excellence, attracting the brightest minds and shaping the future of the nation. These institutions have become symbols of the country's intellectual prowess, innovation, and the limitless potential of its youth.

15 Sep 2023
The Whys and Hows

Global Inspirations

Hybrid regional plane being developed by IIT-Delhi engineer in the US

Ashish Kumar, an alumnus of  IIT Delhi is developing hybrid plane in the US. The plane will be having a range of 1,100-km which will be a hybrid-electric aircraft. It may fulfill India’s need for cheap local regional flights. The plane is likely to be available by  early 2020s. Ashish Kumar is founder and CEO of Zunum Aero. The company is based in Kirkland (Washington). The regional hybrid-electric aircraft under development will get a range of 1,600 km by 2030, as reported by The Economic Times. Ashish Kumar is a PhD in mechanical and aerospace engineering from Cornell University. He founded Zunum Aero in 2013.  His company is building a range of commercial hybrid-to-electric aircraft for regional flights. These run on quiet range-optimized powertrain and propulsion technologies. The company is looking forward to extend fast and affordable air travel to every community. Ashish Kumar said, "Boeing and JetBlue are backing us. We will first come out with a sub-20 seater hybrid aircraft. We hope to have the first prototype flying in two years and begin commercial production in early 2020s." He further added, "We are looking at India in a big way.” Zunum claims, that the hybrid planes will be having 80% lower emissions and operating cost of these planes will be lower than conventional planes. According to Ashish Kumar, these factors will enable the airlines to provide cheap fares to customers.  

6 Apr 2017
Global Inspirations

Archives