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CSIR Offers Technologies for Inclusive Growth

Shri Prithviraj Chavan, Hon’ble offer, free of cost, to social entre- transfer CSIR-800 technologies on the Minister of State (Independent Charge) preneurs and NGOs to reach out to 800 ground. for Science & Technology and Earth million people, ushering in an era of Social entrepreneurs/NGO Sciences and Vice President, CSIR economic empowerment of rural India. representatives from as far as UK and announced that CSIR has a plan to come He also shared that many CSIR over 60 NGOs, involved in absorption- out with end-to-end business solutions laboratories are working not just in high efforts of technology at grassroot-level built around select excellent science but also generating meaningful developmental work, operating in as technologies, during the “CSIR technologies that can be translated into many as 16 States of India participated Technology - Social Entrepreneur relevant products and services for the during the deliberations of the meeting. Meet” organized on 16 August 2010 at common man, through partnership with Representatives from financial CSIR headquarters in New . The the NGOs/social entrepreneurs. institutions and banks were also present. meeting was organized to take forward The proper utilization of such During the whole day programme, there the CSIR 800 – an initiative to leverage technologies through a network of were a series of technical discussions, CSIR’s relevant technological activists/NGOs surely has the potential to disseminate information on CSIR knowledge base for the benefit of 800 to transform rural India and, therefore, technologies. Three thematic sessions, million people of the country who are at must be exploited. The interaction of namely, Affordable Health & the bottom of the pyramid of life. CSIR officials and other stakeholders in Sustainable Energy, Waste-to-Wealth Prof. Samir K. Brahmachari, DG the chain of innovation of technologies and Value Added Agriculture were held CSIR, informed the participants that for the benefit of the common man will in parallel during this one-day CSIR has a bag full of potential help to establish new linkages and new programme. technologies which CSIR is willing to partnerships to smoothly and quickly

Glimpses of the CSIR Technology – Social Entrepreneur Meet

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LaCONES CSIR’s Effort to Nurture Nature Dr. P. Cheena Chawla What happens when our precious Delhi. The Department of Forestry, The wide range of research possessions are lost? Invariably, loss of Government of Andhra Pradesh and the activities at the LaCONES includes the wealth or something dear makes most Nehru Zoological Park at Hyderabad, resurrection of extinct and endangered of us quite upset that triggers us to take are also major partners in this joint species by cloning the frozen genetic measures for protecting our belongings. venture. material and using oocytes of a closely Well, Nature too belongs to all of us. The Piloted by Dr. , former related species as surrogate mother, bountiful Nature is replete with priceless Director, CCMB and Dr. S. Shivaji, monitoring of genetic variations and possessions in the form of myriad Director-grade scientist, CCMB, establishing of gene and cell banks for varieties of life forms, each one of them LaCONES is a unique laboratory set up rare species. A major focus is on the being a masterpiece in itself. But alas, at Attapur near Nehru Zoological Park, development of assisted reproductive some of them like the Caspian tiger, Sea Hyderabad, on land allotted by the technologies such as intrauterine cow, Dodo, Quagga and many more are Government of Andhra Pradesh. This insemination, in vitro fertilization, intra- gone forever and we shall never see novel scientific endeavour is a part of a cytoplasm sperm injection, embryo them again. With their extinction, the national programme to tackle the transfer, etc., for conservation of rare millions of years that these species took challenge of wildlife extinction by species. to evolve are also lost. Surely, loss of employing novel methods of The state-of-the-art LaCONES has this natural wealth reflected by and assisted reproductive facilities for cryopreservation of semen, extinction of several animal species from technologies. The idea is to conserve eggs and embryos of endangered the face of the Earth is not only very and prevent the extinction of endangered species. Semen analysis is done to study disturbing but also is a fair reason for wildlife by focusing on both conservation the semen quality for selecting animals gearing up our action to conserve the as well as propagation of such species for breeding. Besides, standardization of endangered life forms that are on the by several innovative techniques. artificial insemination for wild animals verge of extinction. It was on 1 February 2007 that the is another major activity at LaCONES. Needless to say, conservation of the then President of India Dr A. P. J. Abdul Planned in-house breeding strategies or existing biodiversity is the need of the Kalam dedicated the LaCONES to the captive breeding of animals that cannot hour. Several factors like destruction of Nation for the cause of conservation of be saved in the wild are developed. The forests and indiscriminate killing of wildlife (CSIR News, Vol. 57, No. 4, outcome of such efforts has greatly animals as a sport and for trade has 28 February 2007). been the major cause for pushing animals to extinction. It is a matter of pride that CSIR has taken a lead in conservation of wildlife as the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, initiated in 1998 the setting up of the Laboratory for Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES) with help of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), , New Delhi and the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), New The multi-faceted research activities at the LaCONES are all geared to saving our precious wildlife

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University of Nottingham, U.K. In these institutions the DNA and the viable cells of endangered species are stored in liquid nitrogen at -196oC. In yet another achievement, the CCMB scientists have developed primers to decode the molecular signatures of endangered species from their tissue samples by the technique of DNA fingerprinting. A database of molecular signatures of over 2000 animal species has been created. Scientists at the LaCONES have successfully employed the assisted reproductive technologies to propagate wildlife species such as black buck, cheetal and blue rock pigeon. The birth Protecting the endangered life forms from extinction of ‘Spotty’, a baby spotted deer/cheetal, is the need of the hour using artificial insemination in March 2006 was indeed breathtaking. Such a helped in preventing extinction of wild and cells of endangered species were success story was repeated in August animals like cheetah, non-human not stored, the vital information linked 2007 when ‘Blacky’, a black buck, was primates, and several birds among other to these life forms would be lost forever. born to one of the three inseminated rare species. It is a heartening fact that the LaCONES bucks. The same techniques are being Protocols have been established for has been honoured as a Member of the employed on other rare species such as anaesthetizing and electro-ejaculating a International Consortium of the Frozen vultures, Nicobar pigeons and the big wide range of animals such as lions, Ark – an international depository of cats for increasing their dwindling tigers, leopards, hyenas, jackals, bears, DNA representing the Indian numbers. The LaCONES is indeed a deers and monkeys. A mobile van subcontinent. The Frozen Ark classic example of application of science equipped with facilities like Consortium is a worldwide group of & technology in protecting thousands of cryopreservation, sonography, institutions, with its coordinating office marvelous creations of Nature. computerized sperm motility analyzer. located at the School of Biology, etc., enables the scientists to reach different habitats for collecting samples. As DNA is the blueprint of life its long-term preservation is a crucial step in storing all information about a particular life form. This has a futuristic possibility of reconstructing an extinct species, while providing a renewable resource for genetic variation in endangered species through captive breeding when loss of variation through inbreeding seriously threatens their Assisted reproductive technologies have helped to propagate survival. On the contrary, if the DNA black buck (left) and cheetal (right) species

196 CSIR NEWS R&D HIGHLIGHTS

Micro-Nano Systems Engineering Research at CMERI, Durgapur

Micro-nano systems engineering is • Multi-material micro-nano scale Microscope, Optical Microscope, Laser the science of creating, designing, manufacturing science Scanning Micrometer, Image Analyzer, integrating and manufacturing miniature • Development of integrated micro Mini Dynamometer and Data components, instruments and systems machines, systems and devices Acquisition Systems. that are having feature dimensions in • Training manpower and providing few nanometers to microns. In recent technical support to researchers in years, the ability to create structures and related areas. patterns in these length scales has triggered a wide range of scientific • Integrated technological solutions for investigations, leading to the industrial start-ups development of novel miniaturized Research Facilities devices. Micro Systems Technology It has been perceived in many Laboratory established at CMERI in sectors including biomedical, July 2007 is the unique research group, electronics, process control, space and which encompasses several facilities automotives that emerging multi- under one roof. It has significant material micro-nano systems capabilities of generating 3D features in technologies will bring about completely micro-nano scales on multi-materials different paradigm shift in the ways the including metals, polymers, ceramics people and systems interact. However, etc. The current micro-nano fabrication deployment of micro-nano systems in a capabilities at CMERI include the real industrial viewpoint largely depends following. Multi-purpose micro machine on bulk integration and reproducing capabilities. It requires a strong Micro milling of 3D features interfacing with advanced miniaturized • Channels:100 µm, holes:150 µm fabrication protocols to make the diameter in 1 mm thick plate devices/systems functional and cost- effective. • Material: Metals, polymers, green ceramics, metallic glass, etc. CMERI research in micro-nano systems engineering area is Micro EDM-milling of 3D features continuously striving towards • Channels and holes: 20 µm on copper, engineering the systems/machines 50 µm on aluminium Micro-EDM milling machine involving electronic, mechanical, Pulsed Laser Ablation chemical elements and functions on the • 50 µm size, 2D features with complex dimensional scale of 10 nm to 500 µm. geometry up to the aspect ratio of 200. The broad objectives include: The major micro-nano fabrication • Fundamentals in micro-nano systems facilities include: Micro-EDM Milling engineering including, mechanics, Machine, Multi-purpose Micro Machine heat transfer, fluidics, electronics, and Nano Second Pulsed Nd-YAG chemistry, optics and energy Laser System. Characterization and conversion and storage techniques testing instruments include Fluoresce Nd-YAG nano second pulsed laser

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Current Research debris and influences of Activities electrostatic forces in In the current XI Five material removal. Optical Year Plan, CMERI is the emission spectroscopic nodal agency for executing image of plasma produced at CSIR network project on 150 µJ discharge energy and “Modular Reconfigurable the debris produced during Multi Material Micro machining ASTM H11 die Manufacturing Systems steel and Zr based bulk (MRMMS) for Desktop First Generation µ-EDM Machine Plasma Characterization metallic glass in the above Manufacturing Capabi- conditions are shown in lities”, in collaborations with Figure 1. CEERI, Pilani, CSIO, 2. Micro injection Chandigarh and NAL, molding System Bangalore. The striving CMERI is involved in the efforts of CMERI scientists development of low pressure participating across multiple injection molding system for research groups including Bulk Metallic Glass Debris H 11 Die Steel Debris micro scale plastic and Micro Systems, Tribology, Figure 1: Micro-EDM machine — first prototype recrystalline wax parts. Chemistry and Biomimetic, Scientists have successfully controlled in a synchronized manner and Micro Robotics has led to the demonstrated a developed µ-injection through LabView interface, which successful demonstration of four micro molding set-up. This injection system would be upgraded with CNC machines developed within CSIR screw barrels have been miniaturized. laboratories. controllers in near future. Figure 1 shows the first generation prototype, Currently, the screw size is 14 mm which is currently being upgraded with in diameter and barrel diameter is 1. Micro Electric Discharge milling features controlled through CNC 20 mm. The combination of cartridge Machining (µ-EDM) Machine to realize 3D µ-EDM-milling. heaters and band heaters controlled through Thirstier controllers are used to The µ-EDM machine prototype In addition, developed at CMERI has three axes scientific efforts capabilities with positioning resolution of are in full swing 0.1 µm over a travel length of 150 mm. towards enhancing This experimental prototype is pro-ductivity of integrated with customized RC circuit µ-EDM process to based pulse generator for low energy make it batch (50-200 µJ) discharge. The discharge production process voltage and currents have been enabled to realize measured using Digital Oscilloscope and the bulk integration the potential drop across cathode and demands in micro- anode during discharge has been nano scale. Several monitored dynamically for compensating investi-gations have the electrode wear to maintain constant been performed on spark gap in successive discharges. this prototype to In the current prototype, the characterize the Figure 2: Micro injection molding set-up with sample components hardware systems are interfaced and discharge plasma,

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melt the polymer. The screw has 18° helix angle and slow speed imparts Machining of Brass using φ 500 µm End Mill Cutter shearing action required to have homogeneous . Like in conventional macro size injection molding machines, screw is used to inject the polymer melt inside the mold cavity with the help of pneumatic actuator. Figure 2 shows the current micro-injection Machining of Steel using φ 400 µm End Mill Cutter molding prototype developed at Five axis micro milling prototype Sample cutting by 5 axis µ-milling CMERI. The molded sample wax, with Figure 3: Five-axis CNC micro milling machine a rectangular part of 5 mm × 5 mm having star shaped cavity to a depth of prototype with in-house developed high varied (0.5 Vs-1) voltage from 500 µm, is also shown. speed spindle and friction-less linear +3 to −3V. The injection mold is made in various positioning stages apart from The scientists working on this soft materials including non-metallic understanding several micro-nano development have been involved in materials by micro milling. Currently, the Tribological studies related to lubrication actuation of IPMC using energy team has successfully demonstrated etc. for micro machine tool areas. released in nerve cells. Once this injection molding of recrystalline wax, 4. IPMC based micro actuator succeeds, these actuators would be used where the minimum shot capacity that Micro device development is another for many biological applications in future. could be controlled with current arm of micro-nano systems engineering prototype was 0.5 mg. However, for the research in CMERI. CMERI scientists thermoplastics molding, machine needs Microfluidic Devices from Chemistry and Biomimetic group certain design changes to address few The other key research area of CMERI have indigenously developed a new technical issues related to shear rate. under micro-nano systems engineering electro-active polymer known as Ionic 3. Five-axis micro milling machine domain is the development of Polymer Metallic Composites (IPMC). microfluidic devices. A group of Another significant development made This includes development of scientists have adopted several by CMERI in micro machines area is process technology for Platinization of fabrication approaches to generate the development of five-axis micro Nafion ionic-polymer using micro channels and micro/nano milling machine. The machine shown in Tetraaquaplatinum (II) complex. A structured surfaces. They have used Figure 3 is the first generation prototype micro-actuation of these IPMC strip patterns/molds fabricated by using above having 20 mm travel in X-and Y-axes (2 cm wide, 5 cm long and 0.2 mm thick) micro machining techniques (Laser and 30 mm in Z-axis with travel have been successfully demonstrated Ablation, Micro-EDM and Milling) to resolution of 20 µm. This machine has under operating voltage 3. Figure 4 replicate the desired structures on been controlled through LabView shows the photographs displaying Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which is interface which can import tool path significant deformation under time- bio-compatible. This research is targeted CNC data and movement of axes are towards development of lab- controlled. Air spindle with 100 K rpm on-chip kind devices for has been mounted vertically. different chemical and Machining of complex shaped biochemical analysis and features of 400 µm sizes are microfluidic studies. Figure 5 successfully demonstrated. shows the sample micro The scientists from Tribology channels structured with micro group are currently upgrading this Figure 4: IPMC actuation at +3V to −3V pillars of 100 µm generated on

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PDMS using the copper mold machined by nano-second pulsed Nd-YAG laser. Currently, research efforts are on to develop microfluidics based systems to perform several investigations which include (1) electrophoresis of DNA nucleotides on these pillar arrays to separate the DNA and other biomolecules, (2) embedding micro impellers inside the fluidic channels for micro mixing Laser machined Cu mold Micro pillars in PDMS channel applications, (3) generation of spherical and non-spherical micro-gel particles inside these micro channels for drug delivery systems. The scientists have established demonstrable capabilities in simulation study of micro/nano fluidics. These research teams 1.5 mm dia impellers fabricated using PDMS Micro gel particles generated in PDMS are working towards combining the multi-domain experts of fluidic channels micro-fluidics, micro systems design and fabrication scien- tists for developing intelligent sensors, actuators and bio- Figure 5: Microfluidic Devices diagnosis systems in the coming years. Mobile Essential Oil Distillation Unit Developed at IHBT, Palampur The Institute of Himalayan invest a large capital for Bioresource Technology (IHBT), installing distillation unit for Palampur has designed and developed processing such small a Mobile Essential Oil Distillation Unit number of crops. The (MEDU) under CSIR-RSWNET MEDU, on the other hand, programme for creating awareness and can be transported to the training the farmers on the production remote areas where raw of essential oils from aromatic plants. material, water and agro- The unit was successfully demonstrated waste/fuel wood are to the farmers at Pritmas (Tissa) District available to distil the in Chamba by distilling lavender aromatic crops at the site (Lavandula angustifolia) crop, which itself. such as water distillation, water-steam is cultivated in the region. The MEDU consists of a truck distillation and steam distillation. The unit Conventionally, the essential oils are mounted with an essential oil distillation produces good quality oil, which can distilled in stationary distillation units, unit having a capacity to distil two-quintal fetch higher price in the market. The which are generally installed away from raw material per batch. The system has whole system is very light in weight and the cultivation fields. Hence, the farmers a built-in furnace, water-head tanks, innovatively designed to suit the have to transport the harvest to the transfer pumps and a DG set. The requirements of the farmers. central processing facility to distil their distillation unit can be easily loaded and Presently, a majority of farmers in crops. This process, however, incurs unloaded from the truck by a hydraulic the hilly region are selling their harvest cost and also damages the harvest during system. Once the distillation unit is as a raw material and getting low transportation thereby yielding low unloaded, the truck can be used for other returns. The MEDU would facilitate in quality essential oils. Further, the purposes as well. The provision exists processing their crop at the site and result farmers in the hilly regions possess small to distil the aromatic crops by different in value addition to their raw material land holdings, hence it is not feasible to types of hydro-distillation techniques giving higher returns.

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New NMR Technique for Estimating Free Fatty Acids

The Free Fatty Acid (FFA) content be used as an in-situ tool to of feedstocks is an important quality monitor the esterification parameter for biodiesel, which is reaction of FFA to biodiesel. produced by transesterification of vegetable oils or animal fat. Biodiesel Although GC and HPLC fuel standards limit the amount of FFA are more sensitive techniques (by limiting the acid number) in the final than NMR, the latter is a rapid product, as their presence can lead to and easy method to use than significant operational problems. the former. The area of the Darbha Srinivas and his group at the NMR peak depends mainly on National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), the number of protons and not Pune have been working on producing on their response factor. Each biodiesel from various feedstocks over and every component of FFA solid catalysts. Estimation of FFA in the sample has different content becomes more important response factor which needs to especially in the case of low-grade be pre-determined and used in biodiesel feedstocks. A new 1H NMR the quantitative determination method, which is simple, fast and non- by the chromatographic destructive, has been developed for the techniques. Such laborious quantification of FFA. processes can be eliminated in the case of NMR detection. NMR is, Control experiments have revealed that Conventionally, the FFA content is therefore, more suited for quantification 1H NMR can detect FFA as low as 0.5 determined by acid-base titration method. as compared to chromatographic wt%. In the case of refined edible oils This method is dependent on a visual methods such as GC and HPLC. (wherein the other acidic impurities are end-point, which is difficult to observe, negligible), the results obtained from the particularly with dark-colored, non- According to Dr Srinivas, this 1H NMR method are comparable with edible oils. Several instrumental methods method of quantification is valid those obtained from the titrimetric including potentiometry, pH metry, irrespective of the type of FFA present analysis. chromatography (GC and HPLC), in oils and biodiesel. Non-edible oils and colorimetric ultra-micro method, FTIR fats often contain significant amounts FFA determination is not only and near IR have been reported as of phospholipids and other acidic important for biodiesel industry but is a alternative to the conventional method impurities along with the FFAs. While quick and reliable method that is desirable of determination of FFA. the titrimetric method determines the in the food industry as well. total (gross) acid value in oils and fats, A drawback of some of these 1H NMR detects the FFA content (For further reading: Jitendra K.; methods is that a chemical modification exclusively. Satyarthi, D.; Srinivas, and Paul of the sample is often necessary for Ratnasamy, Estimation of Free Fatty Acid analysis. The NMR method, on the other 1H NMR determines the FFA in Content in Oils, Fats, and Biodiesel by 1H hand, is versatile and requires only a non-edible oils, fats and biodiesel more NMR Spectroscopy, Energy & Fuels, small amount of the sample. It can also accurately than the titrimetric method. 2009, 24, 2273–2277).

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CSIR Team Transfers the DHA Fermentation Technology

CSIR NMITLI team, National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) Goa, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) Jammu and Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) Hyderabad developed a fermentation technology for Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) production using sea- isolated microbial organism, which acts as an alternative to fish source (CSIR News, Vol.60, No.5 A B & 6, March 2010). The National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) Goa was responsible for the isolation and identification of single-celled protists, Thraustochytrid named SC-1 from sea, while the qualitative analysis for the presence of lipids and oils samples was done by scientists at the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), Hyderabad. Indian Institute of C D Integrative Medicine (IIIM) Jammu, the nodal Institute of CSIR team, was entrusted with the responsibility for developing the fermentation process in various volume fermentors for mass cultivation of Thraustochytrids (SC-1) under controlled conditions along with its down stream processing. Various SC-1 growth stages (A-E) The fermentation process has been developed during fermentation cycle in such a manner that this marine organism can now E produce DHA up to 45% of its total lipids contents in normal salt conditions. This process for the production of DHA was demonstrated to the industry at IIIM, Jammu in December 2009 using 50L volume Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA): Chemical structure (right) and 3D model structure (left) fermentors as per the agreement signed between CSIR, New Delhi and M/s Avesthagen Pvt. Ltd, Bangalore.

The industry was provided all technical details as per the agreement: Detailed standard operation protocols (SOP) for culturing the SC-1, fermentation process in detail, down stream processing (total lipids extraction using food grade solvents, and quality analysis details of lipids by GCL method). The M/s Avesthagen Pvt Ltd, Bangalore will pay Rs 150 lacs to CSIR team as technology transfer fee in three DHA (C H O ) instalments. 22 32 2

202 CSIR NEWS MEETINGS

MNRE Meeting on DNA Clubs Inaugurated at National Policy for NEIST Substation Lamphelpat, Manipur Geothermal Energy A meeting of the Core Group for formulating guidelines for a National Policy on Geothermal Energy in India, constituted by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India was held at the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), Hyderabad on 10 May 2010. The meeting was convened by Dr. Sukanta Roy, Coordinator of the Core Group. Representatives from MNRE (Dr R. N. Sawant), NGRI (Dr. Sukanta Roy and Dr T. Harinarayana), GSI (Shri A view of the meeting in progress P. B. Sarolkar), Thermax Limited (Shri North East Institute of Science and The Guest of Honour, Dr. N. C. D.W. Bapat) and Tata Power (Shri Technology (NEIST)-CSIR, Substation Talukdar, Director-in-Charge, IBSD, Abhishek Kulkarni) participated in the Lamphelpat, Imphal, Manipur organized Imphal stressed on the importance of the discussions. the Inaugural Function of the DNA club biodiversity in the North-East as a whole Dr Y. J. Bhaskar Rao, Director, for 37 Schools on 17 July 2010. The and its importance in the DNA club NGRI welcomed the members. He event was sponsored by the Department program. Prof. H. Nandakumar Singh, stressed the need for undertaking data of Biotechnology, Govt. of India. Pro-Vice-Chancellor and the Chief generation as a national endeavour, to The objective of the Inauguration/ Guest of the Function stressed on the use our own expertise wherever Coordinator’s Meeting was to create law of Nature to protect the environment possible, and identify technologies that awareness about the DNA Program and and ecosystem as a whole, which is only we need to import from other countries. its implementation. The Project involves possible by the conservation of our forest Dr R. N. Sawant, Director of MNRE deeper awareness about bioresources, resources. For this, the coordinators of explained the objectives of the meeting and enthusing students about the role of the DNA Club along with the school and the need to have a National Policy biotechnology in sustainable utilization, students need to play an important role. on Geothermal Energy in India. He especially in the North-East region. Dr. B. G. Unni, Scientist G & Area mentioned that this meeting is a subset A total of 57 schools have been Coordinator (Biotechnology/Biological of a larger initiative of the Ministry to selected for this Project, out of which Sciences) presided over the Function. assess the overall status with respect to 37 schools were invited to attend the Dr. Unni informed, in brief, about the exploration and exploitation scenario in Inaugural Function. Dr. H. B. Singh various activities undertaken by CSIR- the country, and to make specific welcomed the gathering and presented NEIST, Jorhat through the Substation at recommendations towards identification the overall program of the DNA club to Imphal, Manipur . The DNA club is one of priority areas in exploitation and be conducted. He gave the profile of the of the activities for the school teachers capacity building. A draft document was activities to be covered along with their and students. He said that the main compiled during the meeting, which was time limits. He stressed on the objective of the DNA club is to motivate circulated to all members for further responsibility of the coordinators in the students to take up science in their refinement before finalization. implementing the program. academic career, while making them

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aware about the recent developments An Interaction Program was also the interactive session during which their in Science & Technology. Dr. B. G. conducted among the Advisory doubts were cleared by Dr. B. G. Unni, Unni, Director’s Nominee for the DNA Committee members and the Fellow co- NEIST, Jorhat, Prof. H. Nandiram club and Local Advisory Committee coordinator from TERI Guwahati with Sharma, Prof. B. Manihar Sharma, member appreciated the efforts made the coordinating teachers from different Manipur University, Dr. H. B. Singh, by Dr. H. B. Singh, at NEIST substation schools. Dr. S. K. Sinha, Fellow and NEIST, substation Lamphelpat, and Th. Lamphelpat and his team for organizing Coordinator of the Project spoke about Surendranath Singh, Executive Director the Inaugural Function. The vote of the program and interacted with all MASTEC, Imphal. This event was held thanks was given by Dr. Alka Jain, coordinators. The coordinators from as a part of the Golden Jubilee NEIST, Imphal. different schools actively participated in Celebrations of NEIST, Jorhat.

Workshop on Recent Progress in Heat and Fluid Flow Research at NAL

A Workshop on Recent Progress in Under-Secretary General and Executive In his remarks, Dr. Upadhya Heat and Fluid Flow Research was Director of the United Nations Centre discussed the importance of heat organized at NAL, Bangalore during 15- for Human Settlements, Director transfer in all areas of engineering, with 16 July 2010. This Workshop was General of CSIR, Secretary special emphasis on applications in organized to celebrate the 70th Birthday Department of Science & Technology, aerospace engineering. Subsequently, he of Prof. K. N. Seetharamu by his former and Director of IIT Chennai. Prof. also described NAL’s research activities students and colleagues, and was partly Seetharamu was felicitated by Prof. on heat transfer. Prof. Ramachandran, sponsored by CSIR-NAL, ADA, and Ramachandran and Dr. Upadhya. Prof. in his excellent address to the delegates, the CFD Division of the Aeronautical Nithiarasu made a brief presentation on first outlined the history of heat transfer Society of India. the achievements of Prof. Seetharamu research activities in the country and during his long career. then eloquently discussed some of the Prof. Seetharamu is a world renowned expert in the finite element method applied to heat transfer problems. He was a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai, and subsequently taught in Universiti Sains Malaysia. Presently, he is a Professor in the PES Institute of Technology, Bangalore. The Inaugural Session of the Workshop was Chaired by Dr. A. R. Upadhya, Director NAL. The Chief Guest for the function was Prof. A. Ramachandran, a pioneer in heat transfer research in India. Prof. Ramachandran has held many important positions during his career including

204 CSIR NEWS WORKSHOPS

major challenges facing the country in IISc Bangalore talked about electro- UK. Mr. S. L. Beh, a faculty member the future in providing affordable food, thermal micro-actuators. in the Multimedia University Malaysia, shelter and energy to all. These are Atmospheric applications were delivered a talk on his Doctoral research national challenges where extensive covered by Prof. C. Balaji, IIT Chennai, programme in the simulation of micro- efforts in science & technology who talked about rainfall modelling. channel heat sinks. The final invited talk development are required. Applications to aerospace were in the Workshop, by Dr. C. The Workshop consisted of invited described by Dr. K. P. Singh, ADA, who Ranganayakulu, ADA, described the presentations in the area of heat transfer gave examples from the Tejas development of heat transfer coefficient and fluid flow and covered a very wide programme, and Dr. V. Krishnamoorthy, and friction factor correlations for offset range of research areas, emphasizing the NAL (Retd.), who described the work fins using simulation techniques. wide-ranging importance and done at NAL on heat transfer in cooling The Workshop was attended by a applications of this area. Prof. N. Siva passages of turbomachinery. large number of former students and Prasad, IIT Chennai, described the finite colleagues of Prof. Seetharamu, element modelling of arc welding, while The second day of the Workshop including a few from Malaysia, and gave Prof. Pradip Dutta, IISc Bangalore, saw presentations on control of bluff them a unique opportunity to interact and discussed the modelling of binary alloy body flows by Prof. B. S. V. Prasad discuss their research activities. There dendritic growth. Prof. C. C. B. Sobhan, Patnaik, IIT Chennai. The extremely were also some participants from NAL NIT Calicut, delivered an interesting talk complex area of bio-medical simulations and ADA, who took advantage of this on heat transfer in micro- and nano- and its challenges were described by unique opportunity to listen to the channels, and Prof. Anantha Suresh of Prof. P. Nithiarasu, Swansea University, distinguished speakers.

Workshop on Diversifying Floriculture at NBRI, Lucknow Developing new production of Gerbera in varieties, standardization of Poly-House. Gerbera is one propagation protocols and of the ten most popular agro-technologies for commercial cut flowers in commercial cultivation, the world. The blooms are providing authentic planting attractive, suitable for any materials, popularization of type of floral arrangement floricultural crops by setting and are available in different up demonstration plots and shades and hues. The cut organization of training flowers have a long vase- courses are some of the life, which fetches premium NBRI priorities in the field Shri R. K. Tomer, Nodal Officer, DASP addressing to the UPDASP officials, farmers market prices. of floriculture. Commercial and entrepreneurs. Sitting on the dais from left are: Dr. S. K. Tewari and Dr. P. Nath For introducing Gerbera cultivation of Gladiolus for in for the production of cut-flowers in the Keeping line with the above diversification of floriculture and uplifting North Indian plains is an outcome of contributions to floriculture and widening economic conditions of the farmers, well articulated lab-to-land programme the arena of floriculture crops for their NBRI organized a one-day Workshop on rural development taken up by commercial exploitation, the Institute has on Diversifying Floriculture in U.P. on NBRI. taken a new initiative for cut-flower 29 June 2010 at NBRI, Lucknow. The

SEPTEMBER 2010 205 TRAINING PROGRAMMES

Workshop was sponsored by the Horticulture Component of World Bank Motivational Programme for Talented funded Diversified Agriculture Support Project (DASP). The main objective of School Students at NEIST, Jorhat the Workshop was identifying With an objective to attract and beneficiaries from potentially favourable motivate students for taking up science districts and drawing a roadmap for as a career, NEIST, Jorhat conducted a commercialization of diversified week-long motivational programme for floricultural activities in U.P., specially talented school students of NE region protected cultivation of Gerbera in poly- during 26-31 July 2010. A total of 41 houses under NBRI’s technical enthusiastic science students of higher guidance/collaboration. secondary level along with their The Workshop was inaugurated by escorting teachers from different schools Dr. P. Nath, Scientist G in presence of Dr. K. K. Dwivedi, Head , NCSTC addressing the of NE states (except Manipur, students at the Inaugural Function Dr. S. K. Tewari, scientist and PI of the Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim) project, Dr. R. K. Tomer, Nodal Officer participated in the Programme. The Presiding over the Inaugural of DASP (Horticulture Component) and Inaugural Function of the Programme function, Dr. P. G. Rao, Director, NEIST, Dr. Hari Singh of National Horticulture was held at the Auditorium where, apart gave a warm welcome to the students Board. Dr. S. K. Tewari, spoke on the from NEIST fraternity and the and the invited guests from NCSTC. He genesis and objectives of the Workshop participating students, Dr. K. K. Dwivedi, cited the various opportunities and and possible areas of S&T collaboration Head, NCSTC, DST, Govt. of India and benefits that the students can obtain between NBRI, farmers, entrepreneurs Ms. Indu B. Puri, Senior Scientist, from the programme for which he and financial institutions. Dr. Parvendra NCSTC were also present. encouraged them to take the full Nath, senior-most Scientist, NBRI in his advantage. Welcome Address spoke on the global In his speech, the Chief Guest, Dr importance of floriculture industry. He Dwivedi, expressed his happiness for highlighted the current progress of work being in the midst of such brilliant being carried out by NBRI in the students who have been specially diversification of floriculture activities. selected for the Programme. He spoke Dr. B. K. Banerji, Dr. R. K. Roy, about the wonders that science can do Dr. Pratibha Misra, and scientists of to human life and urged upon them to NBRI along with other experts from take up research in science as a career. financing institutions and poly-house/ As a special invitee, Dr. B. G. Unni gave floriculture industry delivered lectures on various aspects of Gerbera farming and also participated in the open house discussion. The Workshop was attended by UPDASP officials, farmers and entrepreneurs from various districts of U.P. On this occasion, a poster exhibition of NBRI’s rural development activities was also arranged for the participants. NEIST scientists demonstrating scientific experiments and interacting with participating students

206 CSIR NEWS TRAINING PROGRAMMES

a brief insight about the idea behind organizing such a Programme and HRDC Training Programme on Research advised the students to imbibe the spirit Methodology and Communication Skills of science. Dr. P. C. Neog, Principal Coordi- nator, detailed about the scope of this type of Programme and its impact among the students of NE region. He informed that three more of such Programmes are being planned to be executed soon. Dr Dwivedi also released a brochure on the Motivation Programme. Later, the students were taken round the laboratory where NEIST scientists demonstrated many scientific experiments. The students Dr. Samir K. Brahmachari, DG, CSIR, interacting with the participating engineers. Seated on the were divided into various groups and dais (on right) is Dr. Gangan Prathap, Director, NISCAIR, and (on left), Dr. Nagin Chand, and allotted project work under different Dr. Manu Saxena, scientists at HRDC disciplines with separate scientist guides. As a part of the Programme, Ms. Human Resource Development NEERI, and SERC in niche engineering Indu B. Puri, Seniour Scientist, NCSTC Centre (HRDC), Ghaziabad, the central domains. Of the various training modules delivered a lecture on Career training establishment of CSIR, to be studied by these scientist trainees, Development where she spoke about organized from 6-13 June 2010 an HRDC was chosen to plan and deliver the various schemes of NCSTC for intensive Training Programme on the module on Research Methodology school students and the many “Research Methodology and and Communication skills using a scholarships awarded by the Govt. of Communication skills” for the Quick judicious mix of pedagogy and case India for meritorious students. She also Hire Scientist trainees recruited in studies. gave an overview of the premier/best various CSIR institutions under its The Training Programme exposed Institutes in India where students can ambitious and futuristic scheme — the 51 participants/young recruitees to the opt for their higher studies. Post-Graduate Research Programme in vision, mission, goals and work culture Dr. Kishore Kr. Barua, Technical Engineering (PGRPE). in CSIR; and S&T Scenario and Officer from the Dept. of Physics, This PGRPE Programme launched Planning in India to align participants Tezpur University and Dr. D. K. Dutta, in August 2009 has been conceptualized with CSIR and to see the S&T Scientist, NEIST also delivered popular and planned as a follow-up of the strong- developments in a wider perspective. science talks. Besides, the students also felt need for inducting engineers into the The exposure to creativity and out-of- visited Tocklai Experimental Station, research stream of various engineering box thinking made them pause and look Jorhat, Assam Agricultural University, laboratories of CSIR. The Programme at problems with completely new and Jorhat and various biosphere spots and is open to the engineering students crazy angles to come out with innovative ancient engineering heritage sites at graduating from various engineering solutions. Sivasagar. Some special highlights of the colleges across India. Out of several The session on Project Planning and Programme included an elocution thousand applicants, only a handful was PERT/CPM gave them a sound basis competition and a cultural evening selected by rigorous selection criteria by of the importance and advantages of programme held at Megha Resort, eight CSIR institutions, namely, CEERI, time management in a systematic and Jorhat. CMERI, CSIO, IIP, IMMT, NAL, scientific manner to realize project goals.

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The sessions on IPR and he provided on-the-spot solutions ‘Searching’ scientific to the problems faced and as information gave them a clear raised by the participants understanding of private requiring immediate attention. goods, their importance, and The DG delivered a highly how to utilize this information inspiring and motivating talk with in project formulation and personal touch and dwelt on the planning for innovations and genesis of this particular the role of searching the initiative. He shared the secrets existing databases and of mastery in creating world- literature for a desired output Dr Samir K. Brahmachari, DG CSIR, responding to a point raised class research and leadership in or outcome. by a scientist trainee. The concerned coordinator is standing cutting-edge research domains. in the active follow-up These sessions were in The participating scientist addition to the main Research effective S&T presentation, language trainee engineers and the PGRPE Methodology and Communi-cation and style in scientific writing, and then coordinators appreciated HRDC’s modules. In the former, the relationship how to write and publish a research organizational acumen, so deeply between empirical research and paper. There was a key presentation on reflected in the planning and selection statistics was discussed followed by “Methods of Science” by Dr. Gangan of course contents, selection and exploratory data analysis, planning of Prathap, Director, NISCAIR, who was organizing the faculty and delivery. It experiments, correlation and regression, described as ‘role model’ by the DG for was felt that this module should not only inferencing, ANOVA, factorial the participating engineers. be offered at the end of first semester experiments, categorical data analysis On the concluding day, the Director but should be of longer duration and have and response surface methodology. General, CSIR Dr. Samir K. greater emphasis on statistical methods The participants showed keen Brahmachari interacted with the in research and more of practice interest in the topics discused. In the participants and obtained feedback first- sessions in written communication. This domain of communication, they were hand. The DG expressed his satisfaction programme has now been institutionalized exposed to popular science writing, the way PGRPE was shaping up and in HRDC’s annual training calendar.

IICB Celebrated its 54th Foundation Day

The Indian Institute of Chemical Roy, Director, IICB Biology (IICB), Kolkata, celebrated the presided over the 54th Foundation Day on 23 April 2010 function. at its premises. Prof. Indranil Manna, After the Director, Central Glass & Ceramic traditional lighting of the Research Institute, (CGCRI), Kolkata, lamp, Prof. Roy, in his was present on the occasion as the Chief Welcome Address Guest. Prof. Kanury V. S. Rao, Senior described the occasion Scientist & Head, Immunology Group, as a very special one. International Centre for Genetic He apprised the Engineering & Biotechnology, (ICGEB), audience that IICB is New Delhi delivered the 22nd Dr. J. C. going to start many new Foundation Day Celebration at IICB. Seated on dais (from left) are: Dr. T. K. Dhar, Prof. K. V. S. Rao, Prof. I. Manna, Prof. S. Roy, Ray Memorial Oration. Prof. Siddhartha projects. The Synthetic and Mr. S. Dey

208 CSIR NEWS FOUNDATION DAY CELEBRATIONS

Biology Project has just been approved development and contributions towards and is going to be a major Flagship mankind. He mentioned that IICB is programme. He stressed that IICB engaged in almost every aspect of health Infrastructure continues to be science and different studies are in upgraded. The construction of Salt progress. Prof. Manna, the Chief Guest, Lake campus had been started and in his Inaugural Address mentioned that hopefully it would be ready by April IICB has a very illustrious history in 2011. biomedical research. In the early days it Dr. Roy also mentioned that IICB was a leading Institute for tropical diseases has received the approval of DG, CSIR with a mandate to serve the common for expansion of space in IICB campus people of India. During the years, IICB Prof. K. V. S. Rao delivering including a modern animal house, has undergone a tremendous evolution in the Dr. J. C. Ray Memorial Lecture isolated from the main building. its research activities and is now poised Besides, DG, CSIR has also approved for a major breakthrough with the the construction of a ten-storied modern immense talents that it has. He further intracellular machinery of the host cell. building as students’ hostel with added that CSIR itself today is poised for The objective of Prof Rao’s work has international standard of amenities. He a change and the mandate it holds is a been to identify the components of host added that the West Bengal Govt. has New CSIR. intracellular machinery that regulate also recently allotted 22 acres of land CSIR is committed to lead the nation survival of the pathogen and the for CSIR at Baruipur, near Kolkata and in healthcare, engineering, energy, approach was to deplete individual host- IICB is planning to have a Translational defence and space exploration “In specific molecules from an infected cell Research Centre there as part of addition to serving the nation through and then monitor the consequences on Knowledge Hub. In the end, Dr. Roy different sectors, CSIR also needs to pathogen survival. extended his thanks to all his colleagues provide solutions in strategic areas”, he The employees of IICB who had and students in IICB for their efforts added. “The ultimate goal is always to completed 35 years of service in IICB/ and contributions to make the Institute provide a better service to the nation”. CSIR were honoured by presenting a better place for all. Prof. Manna emphasized on stronger memento to them. Scientists of IICB Dr. T. K. Dhar, Scientist and correlation and co-ordination among the were also honoured with mementos for Chairman, Organizing Committee CSIR labs to achieve the goal faster. their national recognition in the period presented a brief history of IICB, its Prof. K. V. S. Rao presented his Dr. 2009-10, for their achievements or J. C. Ray Memorial Oration entitled contributions in science. Students, who “Defining Host-Pathogen Interactions were awarded their Ph.D. degrees Through Genome Wide-Screen and during 2009-10, were felicitated by the Alternate Approach to Drug Target Chief Guest with mementos. The best Discovery”. The lecture was very three Ph.D. theses submitted during informative and interesting. The focus of 2009-10 and best three Ph.D. course the topic was Mycobacterium work performers in the previous year tuberculosis (MTb). He discussed about were also awarded. The Function was the problems associated with developing graced by invited guests, distinguished new therapeutic strategies for MTb. His scientists, employees, ex-colleagues and valuable work was to overcome these students. The Function ended with the problems by disabling the successful vote of thanks followed by a cultural Prof. Indranil Manna delivering integration of the pathogen with the programme. the Inaugural Lecture

SEPTEMBER 2010 209 FOUNDATION DAY CELEBRATIONS

Foundation Day Celebrations at IHBT, Palampur

On June 7, the Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, (IHBT), Palampur, celebrated its 28th Foundation Day. In the forenoon session a lecture was delivered by Dr. Bal Ram Singh, Director, Botulinum Research Centre, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth on the topic entitled, Botulinum Neurotoxin vs Neuromedicine – Basic and Applied Research.

The main function was organized in the afternoon at IHBT auditorium. Dr P. S. Ahuja, Director, IHBT A dais view of the Foundation Day Function extended a warm welcome to the guests and presented a brief account of the M/s Multiplex Biotech Ltd, Bangalore. workers of Ethio-Agriceft on cultivation R&D achievements during the bygone of medicinal and aromatic plants and tea year. He revealed that with strategic In another venture, a 10 TPA husbandry. vision, IHBT has established ecological production unit was established with experimental plots in the Himalayan M/s Jallan Trini-Tea Processing (P) Ltd., Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Director, zone for better understanding on the Gurgaon for the production of IGIB, New Delhi delivered the chronology of major plant phenological steviosides on a turn-key basis. Foundation Day Lecture on “Synthetic events. In a major initiative, an Breeding for improvement of steviol Genomics Harnessing the Power of arboretum, botanical garden and a glycocide content was launched both by Genomics to Solve Global conservatory on Pteridophytes was conventional and non-conventional Challenges”. Presiding over the launched. methods. function, Prof. K. L. Chopra, former Director, IIT Kharagpur, emphasized on Dr Ahuja informed that A CSIR-NIF collaborative the ethical issues in Science and environmentally benign methodologies programme was initiated for scientific Technology at national and international have been developed at the Institute in validation and value addition of rural levels and ways to handle it. The Vote the areas of fertilizers, pesticides etc. innovations in order to encourage local of Thanks was delivered by Dr. Anil In green chemistry, new methodologies traditions. Also, in a network mode with Sood and the Function was coordinated were developed for bioactive molecule 17 institutes under the CSIR 800- by Dr. Aparna Maitra Pati. synthesis. Dr. Ahuja also apprised the RSWNET programme, activities have audience that with focus on the cold been now strengthened for dissemination The Function was attended by deserts of western Himalayan regions, of rural-based CSIR technologies in faculty and students of CSK HPKV, carrier based plant growth promoting rural areas. He highlighted that IHBT Palampur, and also the dignitaries from microbial inoculants have been licensed scientists also visited Ethiopia to train the the regional stations of IVRI and IGFRI. for commercial production to

210 CSIR NEWS GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

Golden Jubilee Celebrations at NEIST, Jorhat

Completing 49 years of dedicated Ltd. and Boko, Kamrup and Mr Pranjal service to Nation building, the North Baruah, Mushroom Development East Institute of Science & Technology Foundation, Guwahati. Besides, herbal (NEIST), formerly known as Regional products of NEIST viz., anti-arthritis and Research Laboratory (RRL), Jorhat anti-fungal products were also launched inaugurated the Golden Jubilee year at the Function by the Chief Guest. Prof celebration of the laboratory on 5 April Samir Bhattacharyya, INSA Fellow, 2010 at a grand function organized at its gave a brief insight about the premises. The Function started with significance and few success stories of CSIR song presented by NEIST these products during their trial process. Research Scholars. Prof. Samir K. Expressing pleasure to be a part of the Prof. Samir K. Brahmachari, Director General CSIR Brahmachari, Director General CSIR delivering the Inaugural Address Function, Dr. V. Prakash, Director, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest Central Food Technological Research while others present on this momentous Institute (CFTRI), Mysore and Dr. S. day included Directors of other CSIR ‘Golden Jubilee Calendar of Events’ Sivaram, Director, National Chemical laboratories, Directors of many research (both in Hindi and English) was released Laboratory (NCL), Pune, delivered few organizations, dignitaries from in and by the Chief Guest. words of felicitation to the laboratory for around Jorhat town, Vice Chancellors Significantly enough, a few selected the selfless service to the NE region and of NE universities, Principals of colleges, entrepreneurs who had ventured into the country as a whole. As a token of Press and media besides NEIST setting up sustained business love and appreciation, a Memento was fraternity. establishments based on NEIST presented to the Chief Guest after which Welcoming the gathering, Dr. P. G. technologies and services were the Function concluded with the Vote of Rao, Director, NEIST extended a warm honoured by the Chief Guest. They were Thanks by Dr. B. G. Unni, Scientist, welcome to all. A slide presentation was namely, Mr S. K. Jain, Aroma India Pvt. NEIST. presented by Dr. Rao, which depicted a brief journey of the five decades of NEIST. The celebration was then Workshop on “Management of Intellectual Property formally inaugurated by lighting of lamps Through Patents with Hands-on-Training on Patent by the Chief Guest and Directors of Search and Analysis” organized at NEIST, Jorhat CSIR laboratories. Prof. Brahmachari in his Inaugural As a part of the Golden Jubilee Celebration of NEIST, Jorhat and World Address expressed his happiness to be Intellectual Property Day for the year 2010, a one-day Workshop on “Man- present at such a historical moment. He agement of Intellectual Property Through Patents with Special Emphasis also further encouraged all the other on Hands-on-Training on Patent Search and Analysis” was organized jointly CSIR Directors to study the possibilities with M/s Merit India Consultants Private Ltd., New Delhi at NEIST on 10 May and impossibilities of the region, and 2010. strive to bring the benefits of science & Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Chairman of M/s Merit India Consultants Private technology to the people at large. Ltd., New Delhi was the resource person to conduct the Workshop and To mark the momentous occasion provided the hands-on-training. Nearly 28 scientists of NEIST participated in the logo of the Golden Jubilee year this interactive Workshop-cum-Training Programme. The Programme was celebration was launched as well as a followed by a special lecture on “Global Trends in Patenting”. Brochure on year-long programme,

SEPTEMBER 2010 211 DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

Commemoration of NCL Diamond Jubilee

The Hon’ble Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh inaugurating the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the National Chemical Laboratory (left) and unveiling the NCL Diamond Jubilee Plaque (right)

National Chemical Laboratory pesticides industry which was critical to “Our Government has declared (NCL), Pune, commemorated its the success of the Green Revolution in 2010-2020 as the Decade of Diamond Jubilee on 1 April 2010 by our country,” said the Hon’ble Prime Innovations. We need to instil the spirit Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Hon’able Minister. “Post-1970, the research of innovation in our young minds so that Prime Minister of India and the conducted at the National Chemical they can find solutions in a variety of President, CSIR unveiling the NCL Laboratory gave birth to the Indian areas to achieve the goal of inclusive Diamond Jubilee Plaque and by generic drug industry, a forerunner to the and sustainable development. Innovators inaugurating and dedicating to the vibrant Indian pharmaceutical industry must be challenged to produce solutions Nation Diamond Jubilee Polymers and of today,” he added. “More recently, our society needs” mentioned Dr. Singh. Advanced Materials Research this Laboratory has contributed to the Shri Prithviraj Chavan, Minister of Laboratory. Dr Manmohan Singh also growth of the petrochemicals, polymers State for S&T (IC) underlining the unveiled the Foundation Stone of Indian and fine chemicals industry. With its contributions of CSIR-NCL said that the Institute of Science Education and world class facilities, it is my hope that laboratory has been a pioneer in India’s Research (IISER), Pune. Shri K. the National Chemical Laboratory will scientific march. “It has a proven record Sankaranarayanan, Governor of sustain this culture of excellence and of leadership in terms of all indicators, Maharashtra presided over the continue to explore the boundaries of namely, quality of science, number of Function. frontier science,” complemented the publications, number of Ph.D. students, Addressing the galaxy of Hon’ble Prime Minister. industry interactions, and technologies distinguished personalities including The Hon’able Prime Minister successfully transferred to industry,” CSIR-NCL scientists and students, Dr. further said that it is our scientific said the Hon’able Minister. Manmohan Singh highlighted the capabilities that will determine our ability Applauding the NCL scientists, the tradition of excellence in scientific to overcome challenges which lie ahead Hon’able Minister said that as many as research at NCL. He emphasized that in areas such as climate change, clean six NCL scientists have been honoured NCL has had a lineage of distinguished energy, environment friendly with Padma Awards, 25 scientists have leaders who have guided its destiny with technologies, sound water management, been elected to the prestigious Indian great distinction. “NCL made seminal affordable healthcare, food security, and National Science Academy and 14 contribution to the emergence of Indian biotechnology. scientists have won the Bhatnagar

212 CSIR NEWS APPOINTMENTS

Prize. Shri Prithviraj Chavan, emphasized that NCL has an excellent record of close cooperation with industry, and it has been Dr. S. R. Wate Takes Over responsible for birth of several industries such as pesticides, generic as Director, NEERI drugs, catalytic processes, plant tissue culture and biotechnology. Prof. Samir K. Brahmachari, Director General, CSIR while Dr. S. R. Wate has giving introductory remarks applauded the vision of Pandit taken over as Director of Jawaharlal Nehru, who, even in the early days of India’s National Environmental Independence, put his faith in national development using science Engineering Research and technology. It was this faith that led to the inauguration of Institute (NEERI), Nagpur NCL in 1950. While celebrating 60 glorious years of NCL, Prof. with effect from 6 August Brahmachari reminded the audience the words of Pandit Nehru, 2010. Prior to his becoming “Time is not measured by passing of years but by what one Director, NEERI, Dr. Wate does, what one feels, and what one achieves”. “Sixty years was working as Scientist down the road, I feel proud, as DG-CSIR, to say that CSIR-NCL ‘G’ and Head, has more than fulfilled our nation’s expectations,” said Prof. Samir Environmental Impact and Risk Assessment Division, K. Brahmachari. NEERI, Nagpur. Dr. Wate (born 22 December 1955) did his M.Sc. Dr. S. Sivaram, Director, CSIR-NCL in his welcome remarks Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Nagpur University. His said that the history and growth of NCL has been inextricably R&D activities related to environmental biotechnology linked to the growth and progress of our nation. “We are proud of were largely devoted to the application of metabolic our legacy, the culture of scientific excellence that pervades every activities of microorganisms to solve various corner of this Laboratory. As we rejoice in our past, we are environmental problems in the country. He was involved conscious of the great expectations that this country has from us. in various significant R&D activities such as biogas On this solemn occasion we rededicate ourselves to the task of production from renewable resource, biodegradation of building India of the future,” said Dr. Sivaram. oil sludge and recovery of hydrocarbons, development Coinciding with the commemoration of Diamond Jubilee of and application of a biosensor for environmental NCL, a CSIR exhibition on ‘Touching Lives in a Million Forms’ monitoring, development of biochemical processes for was organized on 2-3 April 2010. The exhibition which was open treatment of wastewaters from petroleum industry, to the general public was inaugurated by Prof. Samir Brahmachari, decolourization of azo dyes using microbial consortium, DG CSIR on 1 April 2010. About one hundred exhibits from NCL, development of molecular imprinting polymers for NCL-Innovations, URDIP as well as other CSIR labs, including detection of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons and CSIR HQ were displayed at NCL Innovation Park. development of novel organo-lanthanide materials for The exhibits covered historic perspectives and the journey of environmental applications. 60 years of NCL, its current activities as well as major contributions Dr. Wate has significantly contributed in designing to basic science, industry and society by CSIR labs, in general, and developing water safety plans with recourse to and NCL, in particular. Posters, models, and products were displayed quantitative chemical and microbial risk assessment, depicting the CSIR achievements in the area of affordable health, grey water recycle plants in rural areas, wastewater affordable housing, provisioning potable water, sustainable energy, treatment-cum-recycle systems for oil containing wastewaters and assimilative capacity based standards empowering farmers, empowering industry, waste to wealth, lead for discharge of treated wastewaters in Amlakhadi. programmes such as CSIR-OSDD, CSIR 800, TKDL, Soleckshaw Dr. Wate has pioneered various projects related to tricycle, human resource, intellectual property rights, etc. About environmental impact and risk assessment studies in 3000 visitors including students, teachers, and faculties from various India and abroad. These studies involved various colleges and Universities visited the exhibition. industries such as petroleum, mining, fertilizer, sugar

SEPTEMBER 2010 213 HONOURS & AWARDS

and distilleries, leather, pulp and paper, thermal power plants, oil refineries, iron CSIR Scientists Honoured with and still, aluminum, copper, zinc, National Mineral Awards pharmaceutical, etc. He has also been involved in the major projects such as Sethusamudram Ship Channel Project Three scientists of NGRI, Dr. Ajay Manglik, Dr. Sukanta Roy and and Kalpasar Project. Dr. V. Chakravarthi; and Dr. Sridevi Jade, scientist, C-MMACS received the By providing coastal and marine National Mineral Awards, which were presented in the recent past, by . environment management plans and Shri B. K. Handique, Hon’ble Minister for Mines & DoNER, Government of carrying capacity based development India. The Award carries a cash prize, trophy, certificate and citation. planning to the environmental regulatory authorities, Dr. Wate has consequently Dr. Ajay Manglik received the Award for his helped in formulation of new contributions in the field of applied geophysics environmental policies in India for such towards understanding the tectonics of the Indian regions. He has coordinated several plate and underlying mantle dynamics and for R&D and consultancy projects funded development of tools for multi-parametric joint by The World Bank, UNDP, ADB, inversion of geophysical data. His studies on UNEP, WHO, Ministry of Environment quantification of heat and mass transport processes and Forests, Department of in continental lithosphere through integration of Biotechnology, Department of Science crustal seismic velocity, electrical resistivity and and Technology, Pollution Control density structure, heat flow and seismicity have Boards, Public Sector Industries and provided useful insights into the thermo-mechanical Multi-National Private Sector Industries. state and tectonics of the Indian shield. His work He has been World Bank Consultant on on the development of joint inversion tools integrating seismic and electromagnetic EIA to Philippines Government. methods has a significant impact on exploration geophysics. Dr. Wate has published 51 research papers in international SCI journals, 31 Dr. Sukanta Roy received the Award for his in National peer reviewed journals and contributions in the area of geothermal studies. Dr. presented 121 papers in International/ Roy, who leads the Geothermal group of NGRI made National conferences. He has two significant contributions that led to advancements patents to his credit. He has authored in understanding the thermal state of the Indian more than 590 technical reports of major lithosphere and characterization of its geothermal developmental projects in industry and energy potential. Through acquisition of extensive infrastructure sector, and basic and geothermal datasets and adoption of innovative applied R&D. He has also contributed interpretation strategies, he has characterized the to the contents of nine books. deep thermal regimes in Deccan Trap, Aravalli, Dr. Wate has been a WHO Fellow Dharwar and Southern Granulite terrains, generated for assessment of water supply and new models for the source of heat of geothermal sewage treatment practices in springs in the Indian shield leading to re-assessment of their geothermal energy developing countries. He has many such potential. He has also built a record of past climate changes in India by exploiting honours and academic distinctions to his the potential of geothermal observations. Geothermal investigations initiated by credit. He has also visited many him for assessing the temperature regime along proposed tunnel segments in the countries in connection with various Himalayas have opened up a new engineering application in India, having immense R&D and consultancy projects. potential for upcoming hydro-power plants.

214 CSIR NEWS HONOURS & AWARDS

Dr. V. Chakravarthi received the Dr. S. Sivaram Honoured by Award for his many outstanding contributions in both theoretical and experimental geophysical research. He Dr. , Director, National applied geophysical modeling Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune received a D.Sc. techniques for mineral and (h.c.) Degree from Purdue University, West Lafayette, hydrocarbon explorations, and also in Indiana, USA on 16 May 2010 in the Commencement identifying subsurface geological Ceremonies held at the University Campus. The structures in both on-shore and off- Honorary Degree is the highest Award Purdue can shore regions in India. His algorithms were recognized in the form offer and recognizes distinguished service to the of high impact International Journals and International Patent. His profession and great achievements in career and life. US Patent entitled, “Digitally Implemented Method for Automatic Selected after intense scrutiny and approved by Optimization of Gravity Fields Obtained From Three- the Board of Trustees, Purdue Honorary Degree Dimensional Density Interfaces Using Depth Dependent recipients constitute one of the most eminent groups in Density” in the year 2003, is the first US patent granted to NGRI. the world. The Award of the D.Sc. Degree to Dr. Sivaram was in recognition of his extraordinary Dr. Sridevi Jade, Scientist, achievements in polymer chemistry and bringing global Centre for Mathematical Modelling and recognition to India for its pre-eminence in polymer Computer Simulation (C-MMACS), science and technology development. Dr. Sivaram is Bangalore was awarded National the 23rd recipient of the Honorary Degree from the Mineral Award 2008 by the Ministry Department of Chemistry, Purdue University and the of Mines in recognition of her second Indian to have received this coveted honor. significant contribution in the field of Dr. Sivaram received his Bachelor’s Degree in Disaster Management, which included Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics from Madras GPS based research studies in Indian University in 1965 and his Master’s Degree from the subcontinent related to the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur. He received understanding of earthquake Hazard his Ph.D. degree in Chemistry from Purdue University under the Applied Geosciences discipline. in 1972. He was mentored by Professor Herbert C. Brown, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, 1979. Following Dr. Jade has made extraordinary contributions in hazard completion of his studies at Purdue, Dr. Sivaram spent mitigation projects for the past 21 years at CSIR. She has been two years at the University of Akron before returning extensively involved in the development of GPS (Global Positioning to India and joining Indian Petrochemicals Corporation System) geodesy in India, leading to several firsts in quantifying the Limited for a 15-year tenure. kinematics of the Indian Plate. She had extensively worked in the Dr Sivaram’s contributions have many dimensions: GPS related research activities to determine the displacement and Basic research in polymer chemistry, industrial R&D, strain rate fields in some significant tectonic provinces of the Indian technology development, commercialization of continent to determine their seismogenic potential. technology, imparting education and research training to a large number of young people in polymer chemistry, Dr. Jade is also a recipient of Sir C. V. Raman Young Scientist institution building, providing policy advice to Award 2002 in appreciation and recognition of her exceptional Government in critical areas of science and technology contribution to Earth Science. and advising industry on research and development strategies. He is also an articulate spokesman for Indian science and technology competencies to global

SEPTEMBER 2010 215 HONOURS & AWARDS

companies and, thus, helping Dr. S. Sivaram has made India gain its rightful place as significant and notable the knowledge hub of the contributions to chemical world. He has championed technology and polymer and facilitated the creation of science, which has found wide global R&D Centers of spread applications in industry. companies such as, GE, Dow He has distinguished himself as Chemicals, Solvay and a globally recognized scholar, Battelle in India. educator, and scientist. The Indian Chemistry Council (ICC) His contributions to recognized his contributions to science in India have been the chemical industry by widely recognized by several Dr. Sivaram receiving the degree from the President of the Purdue University bestowing on him the Life Time Awards. He is an elected Achievement Award in 2009. Fellow of all the learned Academies of of scientists working in the developing Dr. Sivaram is cited as an inventor Sciences and Engineering in India. He world. The President of India in 51 issued U.S. Patents. He has is also an elected Fellow of The World acknowledged his contributions to mentored 36 Ph.D. students and several Academy of Sciences (TWAS), Trieste, society by conferring on him the coveted post-doctoral fellows and authored over Italy, a body that recognizes excellence civilian honour, Padma Shri. 200 peer-reviewed publications.

Dr. Biren Roy Trust Award 2009

The Aeronautical Society of India confers Awards annually to professionals in various aeronautical fields. Dr. Biren Roy Trust Award is one such award instituted by Dr. Biren Roy Trust, Kolkata in the year 1983. It is to recognize outstanding contributions in the field of design, development, maintenance, operation, training, manufacturing and allied areas of aviation and space technologies. The Award for the year 2009, has been given to a team of NAL scientists consisting of Dr. G. N. Dayananda, Mr. G. M. Kamalakannan and Mr. J. Ramaswamy Setty in recognition of their contribution to the design, development The winners of the Dr. Biren Roy Trust Award from NAL and indigenization of the state-of- the art autoclave process control equipments are : Left to right (front row) Dr. G.N. Dayananda, required for the manufacturing of advanced composites for major National Mr. J. Ramaswamy Setty and Mr. G.M. Aircraft Programmes such as the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and SARAS. Kamalakannan. Dr. , CC (R&D), DRDO; st Dr. , Rajaramanna Fellow; The Awards were given at 61 AGM held on 10 April 2010 in Bangalore. Mr. Ashok Bhushan, Honorary Secretary General, His Excellency H.R. Bhardwaj, Governor of Karnataka( Chief Guest )and Dr. AeSI are also seen Vijay Mallya, President, graced the occasion.

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