Inside India’s Nuclear Future: How a Russia-IIT Bombay Tie-Up Is Training the Next Generation of Experts

On a quiet morning at the campus of the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, a group of young engineers and researchers gathered not for an ordinary lecture but for something far more significant. They were stepping into a future where science meets strategy, and learning could directly influence the energy security of a nation. This moment marked the beginning of a pilot nuclear training program launched in collaboration with Russia’s state nuclear agency Rosatom. While the program may appear academic on the surface, it represents a deeper shift in how India is preparing itself for the next era of energy and technological advancement.A Strategic Partnership Beyond BordersIndia and Russia have long shared strong ties in defence and energy cooperation. This new initiative builds on that relationship, focusing on knowledge-sharing and capacity-building in one of the most complex and critical fields—nuclear science. Conducted by Rosatom’s subsidiary, the JSC Engineering and Technology Center, the program brings together a unique blend of expertise. Alongside IIT Bombay’s academic strength, contributions from industry partners ensure that learning goes beyond theory and into real-world application. The collaboration reflects a growing global trend where nations work together not just to build infrastructure but to build human capital, the skilled professionals who will operate, manage, and innovate within these systems.Learning Through Technology: Simulators and Digital TwinsWhat sets this training program apart is its use of advanced tools like simulators and digital twin technologies. These are not just buzzwords but powerful learning platforms that allow participants to experience the functioning of nuclear power plants in a controlled, virtual environment. A digital twin is essentially a virtual replica of a real system. In this case, it allows trainees to understand the operations of a nuclear reactor without being physically present at one. This approach enhances safety, improves understanding, and prepares professionals for real-world challenges. For a young engineer sitting in a classroom in Mumbai, this means being able to “operate” a nuclear plant, troubleshoot issues, and understand complex systems all before stepping into an actual facility.Meeting India’s Growing Energy AmbitionsIndia’s energy needs are expanding rapidly. As the country moves towards cleaner and more sustainable sources of power, nuclear energy is expected to play a crucial role. The government has set an ambitious target to increase nuclear power capacity from 8.8 gigawatts to 100 gigawatts by 2047. Achieving this goal will require more than just building reactors. It will demand a highly skilled workforce capable of managing advanced technologies safely and efficiently. This is where the importance of such training programs becomes clear. Currently, India produces only a limited number of nuclear specialists each year, far below the demand. This gap poses a challenge to the country’s long-term energy plans. By introducing specialised training initiatives, India is taking a proactive step towards bridging this gap.From Classrooms to Reactors: Building Real-World ImpactThe training program is not designed to remain confined within the walls of IIT Bombay. Its impact is expected to extend across India’s nuclear ecosystem, including both public and private sector organisations. As participants complete their training, they will carry with them not just knowledge, but practical skills that can be applied in real-world settings. This includes understanding safety protocols, operational efficiency, and technological innovation—key elements in running nuclear power plants. Such initiatives also open doors for further collaboration in research, training, and technology deployment, creating a ripple effect across the sector. The success of such projects depends not only on infrastructure but also on the people who operate them. In the end, this story is not just about reactors or technology. It is about preparation, vision, and the belief that the future can be built through knowledge. And in classrooms like those at IIT Bombay, that future is already taking shape.

16 Apr 2026

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From Campus Labs to Global Dreams: India’s Deep-Tech Startups Steal the Spotlight at Bharat Innovates

India’s deep-tech ecosystem is stepping into a new era of global recognition. At the Bharat Innovates 2026 pre-summit hosted by IIT Bombay, 137 promising startups were showcased each representing the future of science-driven innovation in the country. Selected from over 1,000 applications (and part of a broader pool exceeding 4,000 entries), these startups are not just ideas on paper. They are real, research-backed solutions spanning sectors like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, clean energy, semiconductors, healthcare, and space technology. Together, they signal one powerful message: India is no longer just a consumer of technology—it is becoming a global creator.A Platform That Brings Innovation to LifeThe Bharat Innovates pre-summit served as more than just a showcase it was a meeting ground for ideas, talent, and opportunity. Startup founders pitched their innovations to a room full of investors, industry leaders, and policymakers, opening doors to funding, mentorship, and collaboration. From next-generation manufacturing systems to advanced materials and climate-tech solutions, the diversity of ideas highlighted the depth of India’s research ecosystem. These are not short-term business ideas—they are long-term solutions designed to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The event also featured a high-level roundtable discussion chaired by Dharmendra Pradhan, where around 175 investors and industry experts explored ways to strengthen India’s deep-tech ecosystem. The focus was clear: building stronger industry–academia partnerships and ensuring sustained investment in research-driven startups.Why Deep-Tech Matters More Than EverUnlike traditional startups that focus on quick scalability, deep-tech startups are rooted in science, research, and engineering. They often take years to develop but have the potential to create transformative impact. India’s growing focus on deep-tech signals a shift in mindset—from service-based innovation to product-driven, research-led development. This is crucial not just for economic growth but also for strategic independence in areas like semiconductors, defence, and advanced computing. At the summit, innovations were showcased across key sectors such as: Energy and climate sustainability , Healthcare and MedTech , Space and defence technologies Artificial intelligence and advanced computing , These sectors are shaping the future of the global economy, and India is positioning itself right at the center of this transformation.From Campus Corridors to Global StageOne of the most inspiring aspects of the event was its strong academic connection. Institutions like IIT Bombay are not just producing graduates—they are nurturing innovators. The presence of leaders like K. Radhakrishnan and Abhay Karandikar added depth to the discussions, reinforcing the importance of research institutions in driving innovation. For many startup founders, this platform was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Imagine a young researcher who spent years working in a lab finally presenting their idea to global investors. That moment—standing on stage, sharing a vision represents not just personal success but the aspirations of an entire generation.Government Push and Global VisionThe Government of India is playing a crucial role in supporting this innovation wave. Through policy support, funding initiatives, and institutional collaborations, it is creating an environment where startups can thrive. Speaking at the event, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized the need to take innovation “from labs to markets.” This is a critical step because innovation only creates real impact when it reaches people. The pre-summit also sets the stage for the main Bharat Innovates 2026 event, which will be held in Nice, France. There, selected startups will represent India on an international platform, opening doors to global partnerships and investment opportunities. This is especially important for the Global South—countries that face similar challenges in healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainability. Indian startups are increasingly designing solutions that can be adapted across these regions, making innovation more inclusive and impactful. And if this momentum continues, the next big global breakthrough might not just come from India it might be built for the world, by India.

24 Mar 2026

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A New Era in Imaging: India Builds Its Own Quantum Diamond Microscope

In a landmark achievement, researchers at IIT Bombay have developed India’s very first indigenous Quantum Diamond Microscope (QDM), a breakthrough device capable of mapping dynamic magnetic fields in three dimensions at the nanoscale. This development, part of India’s National Quantum Mission, was publicly announced during the Emerging Science, Technology & Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2025). How the Quantum Diamond Microscope WorksAt the heart of the QDM lies a special type of diamond defect called a nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center, an atomic-scale “flaw” where a nitrogen atom sits next to an empty spot in the diamond lattice. These NV centers maintain quantum coherence even at room temperature, making them exquisitely sensitive to minute fluctuations in magnetic, electric, and thermal fields. To read out the magnetic field, the microscope uses optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR). When illuminated, the NV centers emit spin-dependent fluorescence, which changes based on the local magnetic environment. By detecting these subtle changes, the QDM can build a wide-field, 3D map of magnetic activity, much like how a regular optical microscope maps light-based images. Why It Matters: Applications & ImpactThis isn’t just a fancy gadget; the QDM opens doors to several high-impact fields:Semiconductor Diagnostics: The microscope can non-destructively inspect semiconductor chips by mapping buried current paths and magnetic fields across multiple internal layers. This could revolutionize quality control in microelectronics. Neuroscience: Neural circuits generate tiny magnetic fields as they fire. With this new tool, researchers could potentially image and study neural activity in a way that wasn’t possible before.Materials Science: From batteries to novel materials, the QDM can help scientists understand magnetic and electrical phenomena at ultra-small scales. Geological Magnetism & Beyond: Future plans include applying this technology to study geological samples and natural magnetization, opening a window into Earth’s magnetic history. What Makes This Homegrown Innovation SpecialPatent Achievement: This is India’s first patent in the domain of quantum diamond microscopy—a signal that Indian researchers are no longer just users but creators in the quantum tech space.Room-Temperature Operation: Unlike many quantum systems that need extreme cooling, NV centers work at ambient conditions. That makes the setup more practical, cheaper, and easier to scale. Vision for AI Integration: The IIT Bombay team is already planning to integrate the QDM with AI and machine learning–powered computational imaging. This could supercharge capabilities in chip diagnostics, biological imaging, and even geological magnetism. Bigger Picture: India’s Quantum AmbitionThe QDM rollout is more than just a scientific leap; it’s a statement of intent from India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM). Through such homegrown advances, the country is staking its claim in the global quantum technology arena. Combined with partnerships (like IIT Bombay’s collaboration with TCS for a quantum microchip imager), this signals a coordinated push toward quantum innovation, self-reliance, and high-end research capacity.With the Quantum Diamond Microscope now out of the lab and into practical validation, the next steps are both ambitious and exciting: integrating AI/ML, scaling up the technology, and applying it across industries. If successful, India could set new benchmarks in how we “see” magnetic worlds—from brains to chips to the Earth itself.

16 Nov 2025

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Sanskrit Goes Digital: IIT Bombay Graduate Makes Ancient Texts Accessible to All!

Driven by a deep love for language and culture, Antariksh Bothale — a software engineer and IIT Bombay alumnus — has created something truly special. His brainchild, SanskritSahitya.org, is a heartfelt attempt to bring the timeless beauty of Sanskrit literature to the modern world. What started as a passion project has now grown into a groundbreaking platform that makes ancient texts not only accessible but also interactive and enjoyable for readers of all ages. The Visionary Behind the ProjectAntariksh Bothale's journey is a example to the power of passion and expertise. With a background in computational linguistics and experience working at Google, Bothale brings a unique blend of technical expertise and love for Sanskrit literature to the table. His vision for SanskritSahitya.org is to create a comprehensive resource that not only showcases the beauty of Sanskrit texts but also provides a robust framework for analysis, exploration, and learning. SanskritSahitya.org is a veritable treasure that cater to both casual readers and experts. The website boasts:- Structured navigation based on sarga, adhyaaya, kaanda, shloka, and other traditional categories- Metrical tagging, commentaries, translations, and morphological analysis- Links to relevant content, including Paninian Sutras and dictionaries- Chhanda (meter) tagging and analysis, along with a glossary of Sanskrit meters- A powerful search tool that allows users to find specific shlokas using Devanagari or Romanized queriesThe Timeless grace of Sanskrit: Unlocking the Secrets of a Venerable LanguageSanskrit, one of the world's oldest languages, has been a cornerstone of human civilization for millennia. With its rich history, profound philosophy, and captivating literature, Sanskrit continues to inspire and educate people around the globe. Sanskrit's history dates back to the Vedic period, around 1500 BCE. The language was used to compose the Vedas, ancient Hindu scriptures that contain hymns, prayers, and philosophical discussions. Over time, Sanskrit evolved into a sophisticated language, capable of expressing complex ideas and emotions. It became the language of choice for many Indian philosophers, poets, and scholars, who used it to create timeless works of literature and philosophy.The Importance of SanskritSanskrit's significance extends far beyond its historical and cultural context. The language has played a vital role in shaping Indian thought, philosophy, and spirituality. Sanskrit texts, such as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, contain profound insights into the nature of reality, the human condition, and the path to enlightenment. These texts have inspired countless philosophers, scholars, and spiritual seekers throughout history. Despite its ancient origins, Sanskrit continues to influence modern society in many ways. The language's impact can be seen in various fields, including:- Language and Linguistics: Sanskrit has influenced the development of many languages, including Hindi, Marathi, and Sanskrit's own script, Devanagari.- Philosophy and Spirituality: Sanskrit texts continue to inspire philosophical and spiritual inquiry, offering insights into the nature of reality and the human condition.- Literature and Poetry: Sanskrit literature is renowned for its beauty, complexity, and emotional depth. The language's poetic traditions continue to inspire writers and poets around the world.- Science and Technology: Sanskrit's computational potential is being explored in modern times, with applications in artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and more.In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and promote Sanskrit's legacy. Numerous digital platforms that provide access to ancient Sanskrit texts help to make the language more accessible to modern audiences. These efforts ensure that Sanskrit's rich cultural heritage continues to inspire and educate future generations.Sanskrit's timeless allure lies in its rich history, profound philosophy, and captivating literature. As we explore the secrets of this venerable language, we gain a deeper understanding of its significance and enduring impact on modern society. Whether you're a scholar, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone interested in language and culture, Sanskrit has something to offer. Empowering Readers and ScholarsBothale's creation is not just a website; it's an empowering tool that enables readers and scholars to delve deeper into the world of Sanskrit literature. With features like offline access and a GitHub repository, the platform encourages collaboration, research, and exploration. As Bothale aptly puts it: “Sanskrit literature gives us deep insights into the human experience, spanning the full range of emotions and genres.” Sanskrit Sahitya.org marks the beginning of a new era in Sanskrit studies, one that combines tradition with technology to make ancient texts more accessible and engaging. As the website continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative features and tools that will further enhance the reading and learning experience.

21 Apr 2025

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Inside India’s Nuclear Future: How a Russia-IIT Bombay Tie-Up Is Training the Next Generation of Experts

From Campus Labs to Global Dreams: India’s Deep-Tech Startups Steal the Spotlight at Bharat Innovates

A New Era in Imaging: India Builds Its Own Quantum Diamond Microscope

Sanskrit Goes Digital: IIT Bombay Graduate Makes Ancient Texts Accessible to All!

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

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

A Bacteria in Soil That Removes Pesticide!

IIT Bombay Go Traditional With Kurta Pyjama at Convocation

IIT Bombay Takes Steps To Become Women Friendly