Shri A.M.M. Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

Annual Report 2007 - 2008

MCRC where technology meets nature and connects rural VISION

Improve environment and provide sustainable livelihood for the poor and marginalized

MISSION v Develop environmentally sound technologies v Conserve, recycle, reuse natural resources v Also develop technologies to provide sustainable livelihood for poor and marginalized v Disseminate directly or indirectly through other agencies Table of Contents

1. Introduction ...... 3

2. Programmes...... 4

I. Non-conventional energy II. Eco-technologies III. Food and Nutritional Supplement IV. Plant tissue culture V. Organic agriculture VI. Alternative analytical techniques for evaluation of soil nutrients VII. Bio-resources, Bio-diversity and Bio-prospecting VIII. Others

3. Extension ...... 21 4. List of On-going Research / Extension Projects ...... 24 5. Publications ...... 25 6. Dr.C.V. Seshadri Memorial Lecture ...... 29 7. Board of Governors and Research Advisory Board ...... 30 8. Manpower ...... 32 9. Donors And Funding Agencies ...... 33 Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

MCRC

where technology meets nature and connects rural India

ABOUT US

Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre, popularly known as MCRC, is registered under Societies Registration Act (ACT XXI of 1860; S.No. 298; 21st September, 1973, Chennai) with registered office at “Parry House”, No.43, Moore Street, Chennai 600 001. MCRC's ideologies are centered around science and technology applications for rural development thereby improving the quality of life of the rural people, particularly the under privileged and the marginalized. All donations to this Centre are eligible for 125% weighted deduction from Income Tax under Section 35(1) (ii) of the Income Tax Act of 1961.

Since 1977, the day to day activities of MCRC are undertaken at Taramani in a five-acre land on lease from the Directorate of Technical Education, Government of . The total built up area housing the laboratories, administrative office and other facilities that includes workshop, canteen, students' room, library, auditorium, tissue culture lab, paper making unit, soil testing laboratory is about 17,000 sq.ft. All essential equipments necessary for our research needs are available at MCRC. MCRC has sufficient computer facilities with broadband Internet access for the use of its scientists, research scholars and administrative staff. The administrative office is also equipped with modern communication facilities. Experiments and trials are conducted in open fields when necessary.

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1. From its inception, MCRC has been developing appropriate technologies for the benefit of rural communities and continues to do so in the current context.

2. In addition, during the past decade, MCRC has been undertaking research which is relevant to our country to mitigate pollution, recycle waste, and optimize consumption of natural resources and work on energy efficient technologies and in the field of renewable energy. MCRC also undertakes sponsored research for companies, where our skills match the need, particularly in benign biotechnology arena.

3. MCRC has also been actively engaged, for over two decades, in providing information, awareness and expertise to NGOs, farmers, Self Help Groups, individuals and even illiterate and educated youth on technologies for rural development through training programmes, and carry out on - the- spot-studies and run awareness- cum- technology workshops.

4. MCRC has been closely working with Science and Society Division, Department of Science and Technology, Government of India and Council for Advancement of People's Action and Rural Technology (CAPART), Government of India as a Science and Technology NGO in bridging the divide between Science and Technology and the rural society. For the development of technologies MCRC has received ten years of core support from DST.

In recognition of its efforts, the Council for Advancement of People's Action and Rural Technology (CAPART) under the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, recognized MCRC as a Technology Resource Centre (TRC) in 1995 and provided funds exclusively for dissemination of rural development programmes. For R & D projects, MCRC receives funds from Government of India funding agencies, such as DST, DBT, MNRE, CSIR, DRDO, private funding organizations and international organizations. MCRC has successfully completed over 100 projects funded by both national and international agencies.

MCRC is recognized as “Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO)” by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India. As per the new perspectives, MCRC will concentrate on the following areas for the next five years - Bio-diversity, Biotechnology, Life Science, Biomass - Energy, Environment, and Sustainable Agriculture.

MCRC has a group of scientists and technicians who form the core team, along with scientific staff on contract to work on research and extension activities, for various sponsored projects. The entire team is inter-disciplinary in nature and comprises biochemists, bio-technologists, microbiologists, botanists, social scientists and engineers besides experienced laboratory and workshop technicians.

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1. INTRODUCTION

MCRC had a busy and eventful year and the 2007-2008 annual report attempts to capture it. MCRC has now reached an important milestone in implementing the new perspective plan drawn up during 2006-2007.

The ambitious targets set for the growth are being achieved by our staff members. The research environment inside the campus has been improved with new instruments, better utilization of available space, and dedication of a specific room for researchers. MCRC’s strategy lies always in understanding the needs of the people and providing solution to the problems using locally available resources. Our research teams continue to pursue appropriate research to tackle some of the most pressing concerns of society today. We continue to receive substantial funding from DST, DBT, MNES and CAPART, for specific project proposals. Our group companies also continue, annually, to give donations to our corpus.

MCRC is recognized at peer, state and national levels for the relevance of its research and its dissemination of science and technology to the rural areas. For effective dissemination of technologies, MCRC has decided henceforth to approach people through other Voluntary Organizations functioning in various parts of the country. This approach has started yielding fruits as we are now approached by a number of voluntary organizations for technological interventions (MCRC is actively in contact with industries also, to provide solutions through ecofriendly technologies). Through these activities, MCRC is striving to fulfill its mission.

The past year provided a good base for years ahead and we are confident of reinforcing our reputation as one of the nation’s best not for profit research institutes.

MCRC’s individual scientists and teams are planning the projects in consultation with the local people and are progressing it, so that the people will reap the benefits of the interventions. As part of manpower development, MCRC has been supporting scientists to rehearse their ideas in MCRC. This year also MCRC has supported three young scientists to carry out their studies in MCRC through external funding.

MCRC greatly values the formation of strategic alliance with education institutions, industries with corporate social responsibility, public and voluntary sectors. To make its efforts successful and fulfill the objectives, MCRC has joined hands with various institutions viz. IIT, Chennai; University of Madras, Chennai ; Gandhigram Trust, Gandhigram; Pondicherry Multi-purpose Social Service Society, Pondicherry; Kaveripakkam Comprehensive Rural Development Society, Kaveripakkam; Native Medicare Charitable Trust, Coimbatore and Inba Seva Sangam, Sevapur. MCRC is proud to be associated with such institutions and is planning to have more partners in the future.

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2. PROGRAMMES

I. Non Conventional Energy i. Biological Hydrogen production

Rapid depletion of fossil fuel and the ever increasing deficit of conventional energy have forced most of the countries to concentrate more on alternate sources of energy for economic growth. Hydrogen has already received worldwide attention as the energy source of the future as it is clean, and environmentally benign. MCRC had initiated a project two decades ago to produce hydrogen from various sources. After years of research, the waste from distilleries was selected as a substrate to study further. Hydrogen production from organic waste using bacteria has been achieved at laboratory level, pilot scale and mass scale at MCRC with the help of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India.

Using the distillery effluent from M/s. E.I.D Parry Limited, , Tamil Nadu, MCRC has succeeded in scaling up this technology to a 125m3 bio-reactor that produces 18,000 liters of gas per hour in a continuous mode with 40 to 60% H2. While utilization of effluents for hydrogen production serves as an effluent treatment strategy, the BOD and COD also get reduced considerably in the process. MCRC continuously strives to make this as the first largest biological hydrogen production model to work on a continuous mode. To achieve this, MCRC is focusing on various options viz. isolation and screening of novel hydrogen producing bacteria and enhancement of H2 production from different

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substrates, etc. After refining the hydrogen output, the larger facility will serve fuel in cooking for the households. Other options such as use in internal combustion engines, Phosphoric Acid and Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells, etc., are also explored. A burner for using hydrogen as fuel has also been designed. ii. Bio-gas

Bio-gas mainly containing methane can be used as a cooking gas. MCRC, in association with Institute of Reservoir Studies, ONGC has started a collaborative research programme to employ methanogen for methane gas production from abandoned oil well reservoirs. The project will focus on isolation, identification of pure cultures of methanogen, formulation of medium and microbial consortia that could be employed for the in situ generation of methane in residual oil wells. iii. Biomass charcoal briquetting

Plant litter could be converted into charcoal briquettes by igniting the litter under low oxygen conditions. The briquettes have higher calorific value and burning capacity than using plant litter directly. MCRC has been

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working on conversion of plant litter belonging to different plants into charcoal briquettes and by studying their calorific value and burning properties. The objectives of these studies are: to utilize leaf litter for charcoal briquetting as value addition; study the energy potential of the selected biomass; for cooking and other house hold purposes, laundry shops; provide training to beneficiaries from selected villages, tsunami victims; and to create local employment and pollution free environment. So far data has been collected in the selected areas on total biomass calculation - season- wise (month -wise) and the results were recorded.

Training programmes on the biomass based charcoal briquetting technology has been conducted at Thiruvedanthai and Kovalam villages in Kancheepuram District, Tamilnadu. One hundred and twenty five women were trained and were provided with charcoal making kilns and briquetting machines. Marketing of biomass briquettes has been arranged with traders in Chennai. The above studies are financially supported by DST, Govt. of India.

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iv. Bio ethanol production

Alcohol, as a liquor is known for a long time and is the oldest product traditionally obtained through biotechnology. Ethanol is a high octane, water free alcohol, produced from fermented sugars, starch, wheat straw, wood and waste paper by microorganisms. Lignocellulosic biomass can be utilized to produce ethanol, which is a promising alternative energy source. The conversion of both cellulose (glucose) and hemicellulose (Hexose and pentose) for the production of alcohol is now being studied intensively, with a view to develop a technology and an economically viable bio-process. There are two main processes involved in the conversion: a) hydrolysis of cellulose in the lignocellulosic biomass to produce reducing sugars; b) fermentation of these sugars to ethanol. The cost of ethanol production from lignocellulosic materials was found to be relatively high and the main challenges were the low yield and the high cost of the hydrolysis process.

MCRC is currently working on the production of ethanol from various cellulosic substrates like agricultural wastes. Zymomonas is currently being used in studies on fermentation of sugars obtained from enzyme hydrolysis and physically treated biomass samples, especially banana pseudo stem. Tolerance of a promising strain to alcohol in fermenting media with alcohol in growing cultures had given a tolerance value of 14 %. The short term focus is currently on screening of yeast isolates from diverse environments, 2) ethanol tolerance by yeast isolates, 3) involvement of fungi and yeasts in saccharification and alcohol production.

II. Eco-technologies i. Natural textile dyes a. Dyes from Plants :

The ever-increasing use of chemicals in dyeing has been leading to leakage of effluents to surrounding soils and water bodies. A number of traditional technologies were used by our ancestors that are harnessed even now. Indigo dyeing is one such technology that is used based on traditional wisdom. Based on this, MCRC had initiated a research on the extraction and use of natural dyes from plants. Presently the programme deals with both higher plants and microbes.

In the case of higher plants, a technology for efficient extraction of indigo from Indigofera tinctoria has been developed. A novel method that involves microbes in the process has also been developed for efficient extraction of indigo dye. A patent has been filed jointly with DST-TIFAC, Government of India. This innovation minimizes the time for the extraction process and augments the quantity and quality of the dye. MCRC has also provided training on indigo extraction to twenty Non Governmental Organizations through a CAPART, Government of

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India sponsored training programme in the past and is planning to undertake similar programmes in future for dissemination of natural dye technology at large. Studies on methods to improve the yield of indigo and enzyme mediated dyeing of yarns with indigo are in progress.

B. Microbial Dyes

In nature, micro-organisms such as fungi and bacteria also produce pigments. Dye (orange red, red, orange, yellow and brown) producing mushrooms namely Amanita muscaria, Ganoderma lucidum, Coriolus versicolor, Boletus edulis (yellow) and Armillaria tabescens (orange color) were optimized for their pigment yield. The extracted pigments applied on cotton yarns using various mordants resulted in various shades such as yellow, orange and brown color. The dyed yarns did not fade on solar drying upon repeated washing in tap water.

In addition to microbial pigments from macro-fungi, studies on pigments from micro-fungi were also started with the financial support from Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. Curvularia sp., Alternaria sp., Sclerotinia sp., Pestalotia sp. and Phoma sp. are being tried for eco-friendly pigment applications for textile dyeing industry. Bacterial pigments from Serratia sp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and pigments from seaweeds are also being researched.

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ii. Bio-pulping and Bio-bleaching for Eco-friendly paper production

As part of eco friendly paper production non-woody fibers as pulp raw material are screened. This is in addition to the studies being directed towards bio-pulping and bio-bleaching of the substrates covered. Conventionally pulp is made from wood by mechanical and chemical pulping. The usual procedure of using caustic soda pretreatment during pulping and usage of various chemicals during chemical bleaching such as elemental chlorine, chlorine dioxide, sodium hypochlorite, etc. leads to different types of pollution. A number of fungi and bacteria could be used for bio-pulping and bio-bleaching that can make the process of paper making an eco-friendly technology. A research project on “Pulp and paper making through microbial process, using agricultural wastes and usufructs” with financial support from Carborundum Universal Ltd., Chennai has been concluded recently. Preliminary studies on xylanase producing fungi from maritime environments also have been initiated. A few strains have been found to be promising but more studies are required to carry out research further on the above lines. iii. Non-wood or HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) Catamarans

MCRC is known for its HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) made boats. The programme started in early seventies has been still continued to serve the fishing community. Now the load bearing capacity of the HDPE catamaran is around 1000 kg with new designs that have 8 pipes instead of earlier 6 pipes.

As part of the social responsibility MCRC has donated HDPE made boats to fishermen in Injambakkam Kuppam, Puthukalpakkam, Nagapattinam in Tamilnadu. Specially designed boats were distributed to the inland fishermen at Thengathittu village near Pondicherry. The daily fish / crab catch data has also been recorded.

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iv. Seaweeds as Aquaculture Biofilters

A research programme on cultivation of selected species belonging to green, brown and red marine algae in the aquaculture units (as bio-filters) included study of uptake of chemicals present in the effluents by the algae. Algae are indeed efficient in up take of chemicals. Agar agar was extracted from the biomass of Gracilaria edulis and G. verrucosa by standard laboratory methods and G. edulis yielded more agar and was found better in quality such as gel strength, sulphate content, melting temperature and gelling temperature. v. Bioactive Compounds From Marine Macro Algae

Seaweeds are very common in coastal waters. While their potential in food industry including B-carotene, agar, alginates, and carrageenan have been well studied, their usage in therapeutic purposes and in controlling larvae has been less investigated. A research programme funded by DST under Women Scientist scheme is in progress with the objectives to assess bioactive potentialities of the marine algal extracts. 15 algal forms from shores of Kovalam, Chennai; Leepuram, Kanyakumari and Mandapam; were studied for antibacterial bioassays. Methanol extract of Valoniopsis pachynema was active against Staphylococcus aureus (human pathogen) and Xathomonas oryzae (plant pathogen) and hence it was chosen for fractionation. Valoniopsis pachynema, Sargassum illicifolium and Laurencia obtusa exhibited maximum activity against Culex quinquefasciatus larvae. While algal extracts were found to be inactive against the test fungi Fusarium oxysporum and Colletotrichum capsici, Chaetomorpha antennina and Valoniopsis pachynema extracts showed good activity against Southern Sunnhemp Mosaic Virus, SSMV, a strain of TMV. vi. Methylotrophs in solid wastes, sewerage and atmospheric air

Metylotrophs are physiologically versatile in their ability to exist in a variety of habitats and live in hostile environments having a wide range of pH, temperature, heavy metal concentrations, oxygen concentrations, barometric pressures, salinity and radiation. Under these diverse conditions a number of metylotrophs have been isolated that carry out methane oxidation and facilitate the degradation of organic substrates. Coupled with urbanization, burgeoning population and change in lifestyles, Indian cities are generating a significant quantity of

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wastes. These wastes have the chance of finding ways into groundwater resulting in unacceptable environmental impacts. Hence, evaluation, characterization, and utilization of microbial communities associated with solid waste dump have become a technological necessity for environmental restoration, assessment and future in situ bio-remediation purposes. Defining of temporal and spatial relationships and population dynamics/interactions of selected microorganisms such as metylotrophs will become important for the evaluation of bio-monitoring / bio-remediation potential. This research programme will address these issues and will test the above and form base to draw a workable technological modification for use in landfill in situ degradation. So far, six hundred isolates have been collected from various spots in Chennai city identified as vulnerable for pollution.

Work on the synthesis and accumulation of polyhydroxybutyrate in bacteria from saline and nonsaline situations, Insecticidal, larvicidal and antimicrobial properties in plant and microbial sources, microbial treatment of effluents, methylotrophs in solid, liquid and air environments have also been carried out by our researchers.

III. Food and Nutritional Supplement i. Edible Mushroom Cultivation

Mushroom cultivation is one of the best alternative and allied activities to the farmer for income generation. Our R & D activity of this project is supported financially by DST who has funded the project for dissemination of mushroom cultivation technology to rural populace for additional income generation. However the project also has offered us opportunity to investigate on different agricultural residues available for mushroom cultivation in addition to the regular paddy straw as the raw material. Two different types of edible mushrooms such as oyster, milky (P. eous, P. platypus, P. florida and Calocybe indica) are commercially cultivated through this project to generate additional income to100 villagers belonging 6 villages including Sevapur, Valayapatti, Kottakarai, Kadavur, Ayyampalayam and Surumanpatti in Karur district

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of Tamil Nadu. In addition to Pleurotus spp. Lentinus edous spawn has also been developed on sorghum grains and paddy husk. We have conducted 10 days training programme on milky mushroom cultivation for 30 SHGs from Kadavur village. Decentralized production of milky and oyster mushrooms utilizing locally available agriculture residues such as coir pith, mat weaving trimming waste, banana dried leaves, handloom waste and paddy available in the villages were tried and are being used by 100 villagers. These villagers are now earning additional income of Rs. 300 -1200 / month / person and till date 7286 kgs of mushrooms have been produced and sold in nearby cities and towns. ii. Popularizing Moringa leaves as dietary supplement

Green leaves always are a good dietary supplement. Among different plants the leaves of Moringa carry lot of useful properties as food supplement. A programme sponsored by Science and Society division of DST has been initiated on intensive production and processing of Moringa leaves in rural areas. The objectives of this programme have been to standardize intensive cultivation practices of Moringa leaves in different types of soils amended with organic nutrients and to characterize the growth- yield attributes of Moringa oleifera; to study the nutritional properties in leaves and critically evaluate them as a source of vitamin A for rural women; to undertake small-scale intensive cultivation of Moringa leaves at house hold premises (25 m2 in size, 5m x 5m) of 100 rural women for income generation; to do cost effective dietary formulation/fortification of Moringa leaves with mushrooms; to undertake participatory nutrient approaches with local authorities in Mavathur Panchayat, T.N. for dissemination of intensive Moringa cultivation and processing technology to women. So far 100 women beneficiaries from 5 villages have been selected in consultation with local NGOs and experimental plots for cultivation of Moringa in and around the houses of beneficiaries has been completed. A two day workshop has been conducted on cultivation and processing of Moringa leaves in Vinobajipuram and fifty two beneficiaries took part in the programme. Future plans include optimization of growth parameters like manure inputs and experimental plot design (minimum area) required for each beneficiary for sustainable additional income generation; training and demonstration of small-scale intensive cultivation of Moringa for 50 women beneficiaries in their house hold premises; harvesting of Moringa leaves once in 40 days, solar drying, pulverization and quality testing; Evaluation of yield attributes of fresh and dry Moringa leaves; Processing of Moringa leaves for nutrient rich fortified vitamin A capsule (Fortification with mushroom) and health drinks- leaf protein concentrate for dietary vitamin A intake; Study on testing stability and acceptability of the fortified Moringa leaves as Vitamin A tablets, health drinks; and Processing of Moringa stem waste for charcoal making etc.

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iii. Ganoderma (Reishi)

Ganoderma is a good nutraceutical supplement with several health benefits. After three years of R&D, supported by Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Govt. of India. MCRC has standardized the technology to grow Ganoderma and harvest the fruit bodies within the short cycle of 30 and 50 days as opposed to the normal 90 -180 days. This technology paves way for growing the mushroom in a shorter duration by using locally available agricultural residues.

IV. Plant tissue culture

Plant tissue culture, in recent years, has created unprecedented opportunities in floriculture, agriculture and horticulture, employment generation, and income generation through exports. Use of plant cell cultures for the production of secondary metabolites has a number of advantages over conventional procedures. It could ensure a continuous supply of uniform-quality, highly specialized natural components that cannot be produced in equal quality or specificity by other means of biotechnological procedures.

MCRC has been involved in plant tissue culture biotechnology and is following a two pronged strategy: one for mass multiplication of commercially important as well as endangered plants and the second for production of value- added secondary metabolites. Clonal propagation of medicinal plants is undertaken at MCRC. The plants chosen for the mass multiplication programmes are tea, rose, Jatropha curcas, and certain endangered medicinal plants like Gymnema

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sylvestre, Stevia rebaudiana, Kaempferia galanca and Catharanthus roseus.

Gymnema sylvestre is a plant that has anti-diabetic properties. In vitro propagation and establishment of Gymnema sylvetre in the identified rural areas and fertilizer interventions through intensive organic cultivation techniques is being studied with financial support from Science and Society Division, Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. The objectives of the project are: to standardize low cost production of Gymnema sylvestre plantlets through micro-propagation techniques; to mass propagate Gymnema sylvestre for distribution; to undertake cultivation Gymnema sylvestre in selected scheduled caste farmer's field in Panchayat union Tamil Nadu; to impart organic farming practice including production of compost/vermicompost to the women from stakeholder families identified for Gymnema sylvestre cultivation; to standardize intensive cultivation practice of Gymnema sylvestre plants in different types of soil through organic farming interventions and to characterize the growth and yield attributes of Gymnema sylvestre; to ensure increased production, enhancement and per capita income; to facilitate marketing through centralized procurement by linking growers (farmers) and the medicinal plant export. The work done so far has been collection of 15 varieties of Gymnema sylvestre in Tamil Nadu and screening the active ingredients viz. Gymnemic acid, Gymnemagenins, and Gymnemsaponins and antioxidants in the plant extracts. In vitro mass propagation of Gymnema sylvestre has been achieved; Gymnema sylvestre nodal explants cultured on MS medium+B5 vitamins+ malt extract 100mg/L+citric acid 100mg/L containing BA (1.5 mg/L)+NAA (0.2 mg/L) +KIN (0.5 mg/L) showed significant response (approximately 25 shoots /explant). Gymnema sylvestre plants are maintained in Vadakadambadi, our extension centre, near Mahabalipuram for distribution to farmers. For organic cultivation of Gymnema sylvestre, 15 numbers of beneficiaries identified and vermicompost pit constructed, 10 beneficiaries are now producing vermicompost for and utilizing their farming purpose.

V. Organic Agriculture

Organic farming is a production system, based on renewal of ecological processes and strengthening of ecological functions of farm ecosystem to produce safe and healthy food sustainable and such a practice largely avoids or excludes the use of synthetically compounded fertilizers, pesticides, growth regulators, and livestock feed additives. The organic farming systems rely heavily on crop rotations, crop residues, animal manures, legumes, green manures, off-farm organic wastes, mechanical cultivation, mineral-bearing rocks, and aspects of biological pest control to maintain soil productivity and tilth, to supply plant nutrients, and to control insects, weeds, and other pests. The same has been disseminated to various interested NGOs/VOs and individuals periodically.

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i. Composting a. Vermicomposting

Vermi-composting, brought about by earthworms speed up the composting process by aerating the organic material and enhancing the finished compost with nutrients and enzymes from their digestive tracts. Vermicompost contains not only worm castings, but also bedding materials and organic wastes at various stages of decomposition. It also contains worms at various stages of development and other microorganisms associated with the composting process. Earthworm castings often contain 5 to 11 times more nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium than the surrounding soil. Secretions in the intestinal tracts of earthworms, along with soil passing through the earthworms, make nutrients more concentrated and available for plant uptake, including micro-nutrients. MCRC is working on efficacy of 4-walled tanks and other civil structure models for efficient production of composts. b. Biodynamic manures

Biodynamic composting is a method of producing organic manures, the underlying principle of which is the development of quality humus out of dead organic materials.

The bio- dynamic process specifies eight preparations to produce biologically active humus. Incubation of these preparations for composting is done in the hollow of cow horns. Research on alternative plants that are used in the preparation of Bio-dynamic manures and validation of such preparations are underway at MCRC.

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ii. Biofertilizers and biopesticides

Various types of biofertilizers are available in nature that help in the fixation of atmospheric nitrogen into plants symbiotically or under free living conditions or mobilize/mineralize phosphates. Biofertilizers are also known to produce and supply plant growth promoting substances. However their availability in the agricultural fields is not often at desirable levels. Microbial inoculants that carry the potential of nitrogen fixation like Azospirillum, Rhizobium, phosphate solubilization like Aspergillus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Burkholderia sp., Methylobacteria that produce growth promoting organisms etc. are studied widely for their application in fields. In addition, studies on carrier materials also have been initiated. One among that is the liquid biofertilizers which carry lot of potential. MCRC's liquid biofertilizers programme envisages employment of lyophilized diazotrophs as liquid biofertilizers. Rhizobium, Bradyrhizobium and Azorhizobium are lyophilized and a cheap media for their revival has been standardized through the programme. Final field application strategies have also been devised. Among the various materials tested cow dung from the cattle shed was found highly suited for revival of cultures and for the application of the liquid biofertilizers to soil, plants and even seeds. Future work proposed include testing the revived cultures in the field through pot culture studies and develop a defined protocol for revival of microbes in the field.

Like chemical pesticides, biopesticides leave no residue and are not indiscriminate. They help built natural resistance of the plants. They are economical, environmentally safe and locally available. MCRC has been conducting research on natural pesticides extracted from different plants. In addition to our interests, on biopesticides from plant sources MCRC is also working on microbial pesticides. Collection and isolation of actinomycetes from different sources and screening for pesticidal properties is being carried out.

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VI. Alternative analytical technique for evaluation of Soil Nutrients

The five year programme on development of integrated knowledge system of soil nutrient analysis through image processing of chromatograms has been completed with the characterization of the soils for physical, chemical and microbiological components and testing them with circular paper chromatographic analysis; development of a case based knowledge / experience management system to facilitate rapid analysis of soil samples; developing and establishing a system to guide or monitor the plant growers / manufacturing units on the application of fertilizers to land based site-specific formulations from large-scale formulation units. This work is done with a financial support from DST and Murugappa Group companies, while Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, Chennai is the research collaborator. So far more than 10,000 soil samples have been processed for circular Paper chromatograms and software has been developed for image processing, case base reasoning and crop advisory tool development. The software developed has been tested for its accuracy and authenticity in retrieving soil physicochemical data from the case base and compared with the physicochemical data which had shown ~ 90-95% accuracy in nutrient levels. Future work includes conducting a workshop cum demonstration on alternative analytical technique for soil testing and transfer the technology by popularization.

Case Base Reasoning Knowledge Soil Soil Management Manager Knowledge Advisor Base & Image Processing Crop Advisor Tool

v Cases (i.e. Chromotograms & soil properties v Crop recommendation v Soil properties & crop v Mineral enhancements recommendations

Chromotogram MCRC Research Scientists

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VII. Bioresources, Biodiversity & Bioprospecting i. Biodiversity

A programme on survey of Chennai coast is being initiated to study the microbiological and physico-chemical characteristics of coastal waters. The study covers the coastal areas between in the north and Kalpakkam in the south that covers the stretch of 100 km. Total Heterotrophic Bacterial occurrence, seasonal abundance, distribution and diversity that includes enumeration and quantification of bacteriological pollution indicators viz. coliforms, streptococci and Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrio like organisms and classify the study areas into point and non-point sources of fecal contamination; The programme also has objectives to collect bacterial isolates with beneficial traits - Nitrogen fixing, Phosphate solubilizing, cellulolytic, lignolytic, PHB producing, Oil degrading capabilities, to identify the salt tolerance of beneficial microbes, to identify the possibility of using them in agriculture and industry for sustainability and profitability, to identify those strains that cannot be detected by cultural means through sequencing of 16S ribosomal DNAs selected on the molecular profiling. ii. Awareness on Bioresources & Biodiversity for school children

A. Setting up of Regional Resource Agency for Co-ordinating DNA Clubs Biodiversity conservation and preservation of bioresources is important both from national and international outlook in terms of maintaining a safe environment and sustainability. The Department of Biotechnology has taken an initiative to popularize and sensitize the important ecological and biodiversity issues among the school children by formation of regional resource agencies to co-ordinate DNA (Department of Biotechnology's Nature Awareness) clubs. MCRC has been chosen as one of the organizations to undertake this program. The objectives of this program are: To promote interest and knowledge about the natural resources and the environment among the emerging generation; to increase awareness of the economic, cultural, scientific and aesthetic values of fauna and flora; to provide opportunities to acquire attitude, values and skills needed to protect and improve the natural environment; to create awareness on the impact of emerging technologies (including biotechnology) have on maintenance and enhancement of bioresources.

Five schools from Puducherry and Karaikal were identified with the help of education department, Government of Puducherry to establish DNA clubs through the program. Lectures followed by field visits on biodiversity, bioresources and conservation were organized where 250 school children participated in the programme. While hundred children from Karaikal undergone a study tour to Centre of Advanced Studies in Marine Biology, Portonovo, and seen different diversity of marine flora by way of demonstration cum lectures, 180 school children from Puducherry had been to Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Vandalur and studied various aspects of animal habitats. All the children visited MCRC and learnt on algal biodiversity, mushroom cultivation, medicinal plants and tissue culture, solid waste management and bacterial biodiversity.

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The project activities to be covered in future include series of lecture cum demonstration programmes on bioresources; hands on training to the school children on selected project work; to organize vocational training programme to 30 school children and to update the site. iii. MCRC Culture Collection

MCRC has an expanding microbial culture collection containing fungi, bacteria, cyanobacteria and microalgae. MCRC is currently working on a number of microbes producing environmentally and industrially important enzymes, bioactive compounds / specific metabolites of special interest.

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VIII. Others

Apart from providing a vibrant research environment MCRC also helps researchers engaged in various projects to undertake Ph.D. Programmes registered with the University of Madras. At present MCRC offers Ph.D programmes in Photosynthesis, Biomass and Energy with three recognized guides approved by the University of Madras. So far ten research students have obtained their Ph.D degrees and twelve research students are currently pursuing their doctoral programme.

In addition, MCRC also guides and provides infrastructure to postgraduate students from various Universities and Colleges in Tamil Nadu to carry out short-term research projects. So far seventy M.Sc. final year students have been guided to complete projects in partial fulfillment of their M.Sc. courses in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Industrial Microbiology, etc. Every year more than fifteen students undertake short-term research projects at MCRC.

In its efforts to inculcate bio-practices in the young, MCRC conducts lectures, field studies and audio-visuals for school children on bio-resources through projects, sponsored by the Department of Bio-technolgy, Government. of India.

20 Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

3. EXTENSION

MCRC believes in pursuing both R & D and extension programmes concurrently. MCRC also has been recognized as a resource centre by various agencies for training on various science and technology related programmes. A great deal of information accumulated on many of the topics studied at MCRC and in depth consideration of many of these areas have been found suitable for utilization of these results in the development of rural areas. Every year MCRC conducts awareness, in house, short term research, extension programs to various targeted group of participants. MCRC has developed selected technologies needed to meet the primary requirements of undeveloped and developing villages for attaining self-sustainability. Students from a number of colleges / institutions visit MCRC to educate themselves on different technologies. i. Sustainable Technologies for Rehabilitation of Tsunami Victims

As part of the Tsunami relief operation, MCRC has proposed three interventions viz. solar water stills, biomass carbonization and creation of shelter belts along the shores of selected villages. Department of Science and Technology has sponsored to fulfil the objectives of this program.

Shelter belts were established at the seashore in Pudukalpakkam and Nemmeli villages by planting three types of plants such as coconut tree, Casuarina equesetifolia and Thespesia populnea. Four charcoal kilns were fabricated with some modifications and placed in each village for charcoal preparation. Briquetting machines were installed in two villages. Four Training programmes on charcoal briquetting using Casuarina equestifolia leaf litter were conducted for fisherwomen (33) from two villages. So far 18 fish drying devices were fabricated, installed, tested for its efficacy and being used by the beneficiaries at 2 villages. ii. Multicentric Project on Integrated biotechnological Interventions for Societal Development

There are several traditional and modern technologies that could be implemented in rural areas for employment and additional income generation. MCRC was recently awarded with a project on Integrated Bio-Technological Interventions for societal development a multicentric approach sponsored by Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. The objectives of this project are to: implement biotech based developmental activities leading to effective utilization of Bioresource of the villages in an integrated and judicious manner; provide sustainable agricultural technologies for optimum agricultural productivity and income generation; establish demonstration, training and production centres such as vermicomposting, mushroom cultivation, charcoal briquetting and clonal propagation; pursue the above objectives through multicentric approach involving four networking NGOs functioning in various districts in Tamilnadu and Puducherry; to encourage biotech based village enterprises. For the programme four different NGOs functioning in different parts of Tamilnadu and Pondicherry identified were Gandhigram Trust, Gandhigram, Pondicherry Multipurpose Social Service Society,

21 Annual Report 2007 - 2008

Pondicherry, Kavery Comprehensive Rural Development Society, Kaveripakkam, and Native Medicare Charitable Trust, Coimbatore. MCRC has signed MoU with all the four organizations and has initiated the programme for implementation of all the above objectives. iii. Technology Resource Centre (TRC)

The Technology Resource Centre (TRC) formed at MCRC through CAPART, Government of India, has been active in disseminating technologies and programmes intended to improve the living standards of the rural people. All the technologies, either conceived and developed at MCRC or adopted from other sources are tested thoroughly and found useful for our villages. These interventions could be grouped into four types :

1. Environmental protection 2. Agricultural interventions 3. Income generation 4. Technologies for socio-economic, financial and administrative capacity building

Dissemination of the technologies was essentially through training programmes, workshops and self learning exercises meant for NGOs, small entrepreneurs, farmers, self help groups and voluntary organizations serving in rural areas. The most sought after and widely disseminated technologies are :

1. Kitchen gardening and vegetable production 2. Development of nurseries of useful plants 3. Composting organic wastes-NADEP and Vermicomposting 4. Organic farming techniques like Permaculture and Biodynamic gardening 5. Production of hand-made paper and boards using agricultural wastes. 6. Conversion of paper and boards into useful products 7. Screen printing 8. Designing and fabricating bicycle trailer 9. Natural dye extraction and processing 10. Low cost housing and steam cured mud blocks 11. Low cost green houses, etc.

In addition to these training programmes and workshops, the TRC also conducts many awareness programmes and discussion meetings as well as social camps and awareness tours on environmental protection, pollution control measures, importance of vegetation, conservation of water and need for effluent treatment. The target group for these programmes is young representatives of NGOs, voluntary organizations, SHGs and school students.

22 Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

A workshop on project preparation, formulation and financial planning was also conducted for the benefit of various NGOs on 4 -5 May 2007 at Shri M.V. Arunachalam Technology Resource Centre, Vadakkadambadi, Perumal Eri village, Kancheepuram District. iv. Workshop for training of monitors of CAPART projects

MCRC has organized a two days workshop for Institutional Monitors and NGO's on “Monitoring/Evaluation and Project Planning, Formulation and Dissemination of Rural Technologies” between 2nd and 3rd November 2007 at Kancheepuram. The workshop was sponsored by Council for Advancement of People's Action and Rural Technology (CAPART), Regional Centre, Hyderabad. Institutional monitors and NGOs totaling 45 members have participated in the workshop. Shri. R.P. Meena., IAS, Chief Vigilance Officer, CAPART, New Delhi inaugurated the workshop by lighting the lamp. Mr. L.B. Singh, Member-Convenor, RC-CAPART, felicitated the function. The participants were taught on effective implementation of projects, evaluation, skills required and methodologies for effective reviewing, area based approaches, PERT analysis etc. v. Project Evaluation

As MCRC has been serving as a Technology Resource Center of CAPART, Government of India, and contemplates to identify and network good NGOs in Tamilnadu, it was decided to evaluate various programmes awarded by CAPART and operated by various NGOs. MCRC has evaluated seventeen projects implemented by various Non- Governmental Organizations in various parts of Tamil Nadu and Andra Pradesh. The process helps MCRC to closely monitor the progress of various programmes in Tamilnadu, identify reliable and trustworthy NGOs, identify needs, preferences and priorities of people in various rural areas. vi. Short-Term Training

MCRC provides lab facilities and guidance for carrying out short-term projects to students of various colleges as part of their M.Sc., M.Tech and B.Tech. degrees. During 2007-2008, eighteen post graduate and 3 B.Tech. students from various institutions like Jamal Mohamed College, Tiruchirappalli; Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan College of Arts & Science, Perambalur; Bharathidasan Univ., Thiruchirapallai; Sengamala Thayar Educational Trust Women's College, Mannargudi; CAS in Botany, Univ.of Madras; Chennai; Sengunthar Arts & Science College, Tiruchengode; Vivekananda College of Arts and Science for Women, Tiruchencode; KSR College, Tiruchencode; SNR Sons College, Coimbatore; P.G and Research Dept. of Advanced Zoology and Biotechnology, Loyola College, Chennai; St. Peter Engg. College, Avadi, Chennai; Sri AVVM Sri Pushpam College, Poondi, Thanjavur carried out their short term projects at MCRC as part of partial fulfillment of requirements of their degrees.

In addition to the short term projects, 15 students from PSGR Krishnammal College for Women; Ayyanadar Janakiammal College; Anna University; University of Madras; SRM University; Thiayagaraja college, Madurai had undergone summer training / internship for a period of one or two months.

23 Annual Report 2007 - 2008

4. RESEARCH / EXTENSION PROJECTS

Pulp and paper making through microbial process using agricultural 1 CUMI waste and usufructs

Integrated Knowledge system on soil nutrient analysis through image 2 processing of chromatogram DST

3 Tsunami relief activities AMM Foundation

4 Seaweed as an additional income for the shrimp farms DST

Utilization of casuarinas leaf litter waste as alter- native fuel for 5 income generation to coastal Regions DST

6 Bioactive compounds from marine macro algae DST

In vitro propagation of Gymnema sylvestre in the identified rural 7 areas and fertilizer interventions through intensive organic cultivation DST techniques

8 Sustainable technologies for rehabilitation of Tsunami Victims DST

9 Lyophilized Diazotrophs for liquid Biofertilizers DBT

10 Hyper production of Dyes/ Pigments from selected lower fungi DBT

A Survey on the Microbiological Characteristics of Chennai, 11 CSIR Southeast Cost of India Intensive production and processing of moringa leaves in rural 12 areas : Cost effective dietary formulations with musroom forincome DST generation to women

Isolation ,Identification and Development of Methanogens for In 13 siyu Genetration of Methane from Oil Reservoirs IRS-ONGC

Integrated biotechnological interventions for societal development 14 - A Multicentric Approach DBT

Establishment of Regional Resource Agency for DNA Club 15 DBT (DBT.s Natural Resource Awareness) Club

Establishment of Methylobacaaterium as a new Biofertilizer for 16 improvement of paddy and sugarcane yield DBT

17 Product and process optimization of insecticide through fermentation CFL

24 Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

5. PUBLICATIONS i. Journals

1. Seshadri, S. Biotechnology-Perspectives and Prospects. Current Science. Vol.92, No.10, (May 2007) pp.1326.

2. Seshadri, S. Methane emission, rice production and food security. Current Science 93: 1346-1347, (2007).

3. Chakrapani, V. and Seshadri, S. Rural Industrialization Through One Village One Product Movement in India MCRC's Perspective -Trends, Issues, Opportunities, Challenges and Sustainability factor. At the workshop entitled Promotion of Community Productivity: One Village, One Product Movement organized by Asian Productivity Organization, Japan from 17-21/10/2007.

4. Perumal, K. Stalin, V. Chandrasekarenthiran, S. Sumathi, E. and Saravanakumar, A. Extraction and characterization of pigment from Sclerotinia sp. and its use in dyeing cotton' Textile Research Journal 2007 (in press).

5. Sarma, V.V. (2007). The myths and realities of biopulping for paper industry. Ecochronicle 2: 41-44.

6. Sarma, V.V. (2007). On certain issues related to biodiversity research in India. Ecochronicle 2: 113-114.

7. Sarma, V.V. (2008). Measures to enhance taxonomic research and bioprospecting of microbes in third world and developing countries. Ecochronicle 2: 233-235.

8. Sarma, V.V. (2007). Research Paper Writing. Current Science 92: 1029.

9. Sarma, V.V. (2007). Why does most of the Indian research work not reach journals. Current Science 93: 278-279.

10. Sarma, V.V. (2007). “Marine fungi and their biotechnological potential - An appraisal”. Proceedings of the International conference on “Applied Bioengineering” held on 5-7 December, 2007 at Sathyabama University, Chennai, India, pp.16-22.

11. Sarma, V.V. (2008). Organic agricultural practices for the benefit of farmers and mankind. Eco- chronicle 3: 81-83.

25 Annual Report 2007 - 2008

ii. Symposia / Seminars / Conferences

1. Flavia. J, Catherine Susan. R., V.V Srama, Sindhhu Kuttan submitted an abstract entitled ” Fungal pretreatment of Agave Plant for Paper making ” in a private engineering college in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

2. R. Banuselvi has attended a two days seminar on “Transgenic Plants-human-welfare” held at JMJ College for Women, Thenali, Andhra Pradesh between 23.11.07 and 24.11.2007. She had also presented a paper entitled “Potential applications of few marine maco algae in human welfare”.held at JMJ College for Women, Thenali, Andhra Pradesh between 23.11.07 and 24.11.2007.

3. P. Vadivukkarasi has presented a paper entitled “Single carbon utilizing microorganism Methylobacterium” during the seminar on “Transgenic Plants-human-welfare” held at JMJ College for Women, Thenali, Andhra Pradesh between 23.11.07 and 24.11.2007.

4. V. Chakrapani, Programme Co-ordinator had attended the one day brain storming session on “Future directions of NGOs and Civil society and made a presentation on Sustained Rural Prosperity Through Rural Technological Interventions Thrust Areas for Pro-poor Policy Designing held on 1.12.2007 organized by DHAN Foundation, Madurai.

5. V Chakrapani, Programme Co-ordinator attended a workshop entitled “Promotion of Community Productivity: One Village, One Product Movement” organized by Asian Productivity Organization, Japan from 17-21/10/2007 and presented a paper on “Rural Industrialization Through One Village One Product Movement in India MCRC's Perspective - Trends, Issues, Opportunities, Challenges and Sustainability factor.

6. Janarthanam.B and S Seshadri, 2007. presented a research paper entitled 'Identification of secondary metabolites in callous culture of Gymnema sylvestre R.Br” at the International Conference Asia pacific conference on plant tissue culture and agribiotechnology (APaCPA),at the Asian Institute of Medicine, Science & Technology, Malaysia on 18th June 2007.

7. K Perumal, MCRC, delivered a lecture on 'Microbial pigments as Potential source of textile dyes” on 21.12.07 in the 48th Annual Conference of Association of Microbiologists of India held from 18-21, at IIT, Madras.

8. S, Seshadri, Rrole of firms in contributing to local development and impact on firm performance in the Franco-Indian Conference held at Trichy on 13.07.07 invited lecture

26 Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

9. K Perumal, “Studies on Growth and Production of pigments from selected Micro Fungi” in the National Conference on Fungal Diversity: Impact and Exploitation and 34th Annual Meeting of Mycological Society of India held on 5-6, 2007 organized by TIFAC-CORE in Agro & Industrial Biotechnology, DBT & Environmental Sciences, Thapar University, Thapar Technology Campus, Patiala on 6.10.2007 invited lecture

10. S, Seshadri, MCRC, Biohydrogen Production-MCRC's Experience and perspectives, on 21.12.07 in the 48th Annual Conference of Association of Mi crobiologists of India held from 18-21.12.07, at IIT, Madras, Chennai invited lecture

11. S. Seshadri, Biohydrogen Production - Experience and perspectives in Biohydrogen Production - MCRC's Research” in the International Workshop on Biohydrogen Production Technology held at IIT, Kharagpur held on 9.2.2008 invited lecture.

12. Saranya, S., Sindhu Kuttan, Sarma, V.V., Kaviyarasan, V. and Muthumary, J. (2007). Presented a paper on “Fungal pretreatment of alternative cellulosic substrates for paper making” at the national conference on “Fungal diversity: Impact and Exploitation” and 34th Mycological Society of India conducted at Thapar University, Patiala, Punjab, India during 5th and 6th of October 2007.

13. Sarma, V.V. (2007). “What can we do with Biodiversity Informatics A case study based on a CD-ROM on marine fungi.” Paper presented at National Level Seminar on Emerging Trends in Microbiology and Bioinformatics on 17th and 18th October, 2007 organized by Dept. of Microbiology and Bioinformatics, CMS College of Science and Commerce, Coimbatore-641006, Tamil Nadu, India.

14. Sarma, V.V. (2007). “Marine fungi and their biotechnological potential: An appraisal” Paper presented at the International conference on “Applied Bioengineering” held on 5-7 December, 2007 at Sathyabama University, Chennai, India. iii. Awards / Prizes / Recognition

1 Dr R Banuselvi, Young Scientist received best paper award and cash prize for presenting a paper entitled “Bioactive potential of Marine macro algae” in the National Symposium organized by Centre for Marine and Coastal Ecosystems, Madurai Kamaraj university and Seaweed Research and Utilization Association between 27the August and 29th August.

2. The University of Madras offered the Certificate of Honour in Commemoration of the completion of 150 years to MCRC on 17.08.2007.

27 Annual Report 2007 - 2008

3. Dr V Venkateswara Sarma, Senior Scientist, MCRC has been nominated as the Fellow of Mycological Society of India during the National Conference on Fungal Diversity: Impact and Exploitation and 34th Annual Meeting of Mycological Society of India held on 5-6, 2007 organized by TIFAC-CORE in Agro & Industrial Biotechnology, DBT & Environmental Sciences, Thapar University, Thapar Technology Campus, Patiala 147 004, Punjab. iv. Republic Day / Independence Day Celebrations:

1. Independence Day was celebrated on 15th Aug.2007. Mr N Mahatvaraj, Member Secretary, MCRC hoisted the flag and addressed the gathering.

2. Republic Day was celebrated on 26th January 2008. Mr. B.C. Aiyama, General Manager (Retd.), Tata Tea hoisted the flag and addressed the gathering.

28 Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

6. DR. C.V. SESHADRI MEMORIAL LECTURE

Dr. C.V. Seshadri Memorial lecture was delievered and droughts in India, were also well explained by Dr..R.K. Pachauri, Chairman, IPCC and Director- through his lecture. Dr Pachauri stressed the need for General, TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute), sustainable resource management, appropriate New Delhi on the topic of “The Imperatives of energy infrastructure investments, research, Sustainable Development Seeking an Innovative development and demonstration, changes in lifestyle Approach for India” on 28th March, 2008. The and management practices and effective carbon- programme was organized at Kalakshetra price signal. Overall, the lecture provided a clear Auditorium, Kalakshethra, Tiruvanmiyur, Chennai, vision on the global climatic control and sustainable Tamil Nadu. The programme was attended by 500 resource management in India. participants. During the lecture Dr. Pachauri While elaborating climate change and its global recollected his association with Dr. C. V. Seshadri. His impact Dr Pachauri indicated the need for a lecture focused on the present global scenario of paradigm shift in our energy policies all over the climatic changes due to industrialization and fossil world keeping in view the growing impact on climate fuel usage and the significance of sustainable changes on all ecosystems including terrestrial and development. The hazards of green house gases ocean systems. He also highlighted the need for rural (GHGs) emitted from fossil fuels and their impact on electrification through solar applications. Inter global temperature and sea levels were clearly Governmental Panel on climate change, an U.N.O. pointed out by him. A warning on the continued use of body has recently been jointly awarded with the fossil fuels which may lead to further warming of Noble prize along with Mr. Al Gore the former Vice 1.8ooC to 4 C over the 21st Century has been made to President of U.S.A. for Peace. Dr. Pachauri, as all. The adverse effects of climate changes on India Chairperson, received the Noble Prize on behalf were highlighted. The demand for food in the future of IPCC. and spread of communicable diseases due to flood

29 Annual Report 2007 - 2008

7. BOARD OF GOVERNORS AND RESEARCH ADVISORY BOARD

I. Board of Governers

Shri M.V Murugappan, Chairman, # 8/1 Boat Club Road, Chennai 600 028.

Shri M.M. Murugappan, Member, “Coromandel House” # 14, Boat Club Road, Chennai 600 028.

Shri M.M Venkatachalam, Member, # 20/2, Valliammal Achi Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai 600 085.

Prof. Dr. M Anandakrishnan, Member, (Former Vice-Chancellor, Anna University) Chairman, MIDS Adyar, # 8, 5th Main Road, Kasturba Nagar, Adyar, Chennai 600 020.

Shri. P. B. Jayakumar, Member, # 5, Habibulla Avenue, 1st Street, Anderson Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 034.

Prof. Dr. P. Natarajan, Member, (Retd Prof. of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Madras Served as Director, Central Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar), # 40/1, Third Main Road, Kottur Gardens, Chennai 600 085.

Shri. N. Mahatvaraj, Member Secretary, Q73, Anna Nagar, Chennai 600 040.

30 Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

7. BOARD OF GOVERNORS AND RESEARCH ADVISORY BOARD

II. Research Advisory Board

Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Chairman, Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Madras, Chennai - 600 036.

Prof. Balu Venkatraman, Member, (Rtd. Professor, TIFR, Bombay), A 4/1, Century Enclave Flat, Old No. 54, New No. 8, kalashethra Road, Chennai 600041.

Dr. Sharatchandra Lele, Member, Coordinator, CISED, ISEC Campus, Nagarabhavi, Bangalore 560 072.

Dr. M. Ravindran, Member, (Rtd. Director, NIOT, Chennai), RuTAG, IIT, Chennai

Shri. C. Ramakrishna, Member, Madras Natural History Society, No. 10, Sathyanarayana Avenue, Off Boat Club Road, Chennai 600028.

Mr. G. Venkatramani, Member, (Formerly Hindu Correspondent), Chennai.

Shri M.V. Murugappan, Member, Chairman, MCRC

Dr. S. Seshadri, Ex officio Convener Director, MCRC

31 Annual Report 2007 - 2008

8. MANPOWER

Research P. Vadivukkarasi, M.Sc., M.Phil. K. Arunkumar, M.Sc. S. Seshadri, Ph.D., Director K. Perumal, Ph.D., Principal Scientist Technical V. Venkateswara Sarma, Ph.D., Senior Scientist S. Sathish, (B.A.,) V. Chakrapani, M.A, P.G in Personnel S. Ram Mohan, X std Management Programme Coordinator, M. Prasath, (B.Com.,) Prof. P. N. Raju, Ph.D., Scientific Advisor P. Velayudham, (B.Sc.,) N. Jeeji bai, Ph.D., Scientific Advisor R. Jeyakumar, D.M.E S. Kameswaran, M.Sc Young Scientist S. Gayathri, M.Sc P. Sugumaran, M.Sc Young Scientist R. Ramya, M.Sc R. Bhanuselvi, Ph.D. Young Scientist Sivakumaran M.L.I.S (Librarian) N. Unnamalai, Ph.D. Woman Scientist Administration, Accounts and Research Scholars Security R Vidya Pallavi, M.Sc R Lakshmidevi, B.Tech C. Muthunayagam, Adm. Manager, M Swati, Ph.D. B.A, Pers. Managmt. S Arun, M.Sc P. Alagarsamy, B.Com., A/c Officer C Murugesan, M.Sc (Home Science) S.V. Subramanian ,B.Com R Karthic, M.Phil (Botany) R. Anitha ,B.Sc,B.Ed J Rajkumar, B.Sc C. Prabakaran,M.Com R Preetha, Ph.D P. M. Kannan, III Std M Manogari, B.Sc G. Poongavanam, X Std R Jayakumar,M.Phil (BioTech) R. Mohanarangan, X Std Sowmya Selvaraj, M.Sc K. Ponnusamy, X Std T.A. Sambanda Moorthy, M.Sc R. Babu, X Std G. Vinoj, M.Sc M. Kalaimani, IV Std P.M Nitya Priya, Ph.D. Technical staff A. Velayudhan, M.Sc P. Govindan, VII Std P. Ravichandran , M.Sc E. Dhamodaran, VII Std Sindhu kuttan, M.Sc P. S. Kumar, X Std A. Saravanakumar, M.Sc L. Doss, X Std J. Arunkumar, M.Sc., M.Phil. B. Therin, X Std S. Chandrasekharenthiran, M.Sc., Gardeners S. Sivashankari, M.Sc. V. Karuppuraj, M.Sc. G. Sampath, V Std B. Annapurna, M.Sc. L. Rajagopal, III Std S. Jayashree, M.Sc. Mangalam Nil

32 Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

9. DONORS AND FUNDING AGENCIES

Murugappa Group Companies (DONORS)

1. Carborundum Universals Ltd 2. Coromandel Fertilizers Ltd 3. Cholamandalam Investment & Finance Co. Ltd 4. E.I.D. Parry India Ltd. 5. Tube Investments of India Ltd 6. Godavari Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd 7. Wentd (India) Ltd 8. New Ambadi Estates Private Ltd 9. Ambadi Enterprises Ltd 10. Parry Agro Industries Ltd 11. Parry Engineering & Exports Ltd 12. Prodorite & Anticorrosives Ltd 13. Southern Energy Development Corporation Ltd

In addition to the above, MCRC also receives funding/financial support from the following Governmental and private funding agencies for its various research programmes. They are as listed below.

1. Department of Science and Technology (DST), Govt. of India, New Delhi 2. Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India (DBT), New Delhi 3. Council for Advancement of People Action for Rrural Technologies (CAPART), New Delhi and Hyderabad 4. Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India 5. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) New Delhi 6. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) New Delhi 7. Institute of Reservoir Studies (IRS), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Ahmedabad

33 Shri A.M.M. Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre Taramani, Chennai - 600113, India Ph : 044-22430937 Fax : 044-22430369 Email : [email protected] Website : http : //www.amm-mcrc.org