Monthly Coverage Dossier November 2019

IIT Madras is a campus of choice for high ranking JEE students

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: R. Sujatha Professor: Prof. CS Shankar Ram Headline: IIT-M placements to begin on Dec. 1 URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/iit-m-placements-to-begin-on- dec-1/article29913704.ece

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The Quint Edition: Online Journalist: Vikram Venkateswaran Headline: IIT-M Placements Begin on 1 December URL: https://www.thequint.com/news/india/chennai-news-top-headlines-2

IIT-M Placements Begin on 1 December

The first session of the placement season at the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT- M) will begin on 1 December. Last year, the institute had witnessed an increase in offers in the field of data analytics. Besides, there were at least three major companies that had visited the campus for the first time.

At the end of October, the institute saw 222 companies registering for the 2019-20 placement season. Last year, at the same time, as many as 224 companies had registered, said C S Shankar Ram, advisor (training and placement). So far, 1,240 students have registered for placements, he added. Last year, when the placement session began on December 1, as many as 326 firms and 1,300 candidates had registered.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram Headline: IIT-M students bag more pre-placement offers this year URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/iit-m-students-bag-more-pre- placement-offers-this-year/article30082939.ece

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Business Line Edition: Delhi / Mumbai / Ahmedabad / Chennai / Kolkata /Kochi Page No: 13 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras URL: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/education/huge-pre-placement- offers-witnessed-in-iit-madras/article30076124.ece

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: NDTV Edition: Online Journalist: Shihabudeen Kunju S Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam and Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram Headline: IIT Madras Students' Pre-Placement Offers Witness Increase URL: https://www.ndtv.com/education/iit-madras-students-pre-placement-offers-ppos- witness-increase-2138280

IIT Madras Students' Pre-Placement Offers Witness Increase Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras students continued their strong show in pre- placement with offers increasing yet again during 2019-20 compared with the preceding academic year. As many as 158 students have secured pre-placement offers or PPOs (as of November 22 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 academic year. One of the principal reasons for this, according to a statement from the IIT Madras, has been the robust internship program, which results in students getting to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

Internships are facilitated through an Institute-coordinated process. The constant increase in PPOs is the result of excellent performance of students during the internships, the statement said.

A total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20.

The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170. They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment.

Speaking about the increase in PPOs this year, Prof. Manu Santhanam and Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram, Advisors (Training and Placement), IIT Madras, said, "The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship program continues this year. This hopefully is a harbinger of a strong placement season."

On the day 1 (August 11 2019) of internship drive, 20 companies visited the campus and a record number of Internship offers (147 offers) were made, which was 60 per cent more than what was offered on day 1 last year.

Highlighting the importance of Internships to Campus Placements in IIT Madras, Prof. Ravi Kumar, Advisor (Internships), IIT Madras, said, "Since the creation of the internship cell in 2014 the number of PPOs has continuously increased. It is obvious that internship provides an opportunity for both the employers and the students to know each, understand the requirements and if companies do feel good about the students who worked as interns, they are likely to be offered PPOs the following year."

"Hence, the increase in PPOs is a direct consequence of an effective internship program. From this year, we have extended the services of the internship cell to MTech students as well and process has been formalised. The entire internship team did a wonderful job in achieving this," Prof Kumar added. Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Economic Times Edition: Online Journalist: Anjali Venugopala Professor: Prof. Ravi Shankar Headline: Number of pre-placement offers up for 5th straight year at IIT Madras URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/jobs/number-of-pre-placement-offers-up- for-5th-straight-year-at-iit-madras/articleshow/72224633.cms

Number of pre-placement offers up for 5th straight year at IIT Madras

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras students continued their strong show in pre- placement with offers increasing yet again during 2019-20 compared with the preceding academic year. As many as 158 students have secured pre-placement offers or PPOs (as of November 22 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 academic year. One of the principal reasons for this, according to a statement from the IIT Madras, has been the robust internship program, which results in students getting to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

Internships are facilitated through an Institute-coordinated process. The constant increase in PPOs is the result of excellent performance of students during the internships, the statement said.

A total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Herald Edition: Chennai Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Huge placement offers in IIT-Madras

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: Internships boost pre-placement offers URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/25/iit-madras- witnesses-huge-pre-placement-offers-2066853.html

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Yahoo News Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras URL: https://in.news.yahoo.com/huge-pre-placement-offers-witnessed-100444219.html

Qualcomm has made the PPOs to 23 candidates while Samsung Research, AB Inbev and Texas Instruments made eight each and Intel seven, IIT-Madras said on Monday.

The major sectors covered include core and research and development - 41 per cent, analytics, consulting and finance 25 per cent, fast moving consumer goods four per cent, Information Technology 21 per cent and other sectors nine per cent, a press release from IIT-Madras said.

As many as 158 students have secured PPOs as against 135 in 2018-19, the release said.

A total of 1,334 students has registered for placements for 2019-20 and the total number of companies registered for Phase-I of placements is 170.

The companies would be looking at 322 profiles, including 35 from overseas, and 54 startups have also registered for the recruitment process, it said.

'The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship programme continues this year. This, hopefully, is a harbinger of a strong placement season', IIT-Madras professor C S Shankar Ram and professor Manu Santhanam said.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Herald Edition: Bangalore Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Huge placement offers in IIT-Madras

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard Edition: Online Journalist: Gireesh Babu Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C S Shankar Ram an Prof. Ravi Kumar Headline: 158 IIT Madras students get pre-placement offers, up 17% over last year URL: https://www.business-standard.com/article/education/158-iit-madras-students-get- pre-placement-offers-up-17-over-last-year-119112501016_1.html

158 IIT Madras students get pre-placement offers, up 17% over last year As many as 158 students from IIT Madras have secured pre-placement offers (PPOs) as of November 22, as against 135 during the entire 2018-19 academic year.

A key reason for this strong show in PPOs is the institute's robust internship programme, due to which students have been able to intern in companies known to be large recruiters. Internships are facilitated through an institute-coordinated process. The constant increase in PPOs is the outcome of excellent performances by students during internship, the institute said.

A total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for academic year 2019-20. About 170 companies in phase-I of the placement process will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, of which 35 are international. As many as 54 start-ups are also participating.

Manu Santhanam and C S Shankar Ram, Advisors (Training and Placement), IIT Madras said, “The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship program continues this year. This hopefully is a harbinger of a strong placement season.”

Day-1 (August 11) of the internship drive was a great success, with 20 companies visiting the campus, offering a record number of internships, at 147. This was 60 per cent more than the offers on Day-1 last year.

Highlighting the importance of internships in campus placements at IIT Madras, Ravi Kumar, Advisor (Internships), IIT Madras, said, “Since the creation of the internship cell in 2014, the number of PPOs has continuously increased. It is obvious that internship provides an opportunity for both employers and students to know each other, and if companies feel good about the students who worked as interns, they're likely to offer them PPOs the following year.”

He added, “Hence, the increase in PPOs is a direct consequence of an effective internship programme, from this year, we have extended the services of the internship cell to MTech students as well.”

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C S Shankar Ram an Prof. Ravi Kumar Headline: Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras URL: https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/huge-pre-placement-offers- witnessed-in-iit-madras-119112500674_1.html

Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras

As many as 158 students from IIT Madras have secured pre-placement offers (PPOs) as of November 22, as against 135 during the entire 2018-19 academic year.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: India Today Edition: Online Journalist: Roshni Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C S Shankar Ram Prof. Ravi Kumar Headline: IIT Madras students shine in internships, pre-placement offers go up from last year URL: https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/news/story/iit-madras-students-shine- in-internships-pre-placement-offers-go-up-1622403-2019-11-25

IIT Madras students shine in internships, pre-placement offers go up from last year Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras students continued their strong show in pre- placement with offers increasing yet again during 2019-20 compared with the preceding academic year, thanks to their exemplary internship programme. As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (as of Nov 22, 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 academic year.

Read: Why IIT Madras is the leader in postgraduate placements: Student facilities, top recruiters and more

Robust internship programme leads to rise in PPOs One of the principal reasons for this strong show in PPOs has been the robust internship programme, which results in students getting to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

Internships are facilitated through an Institute-coordinated process. The constant increase in PPOs is the result of excellent performance of students during the internships.

Speaking about the increase in PPOs this year, Prof. Manu Santhanam and Prof. C S Shankar Ram, Advisors (Training and Placement), IIT Madras, said, "The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship programme continues this year. This hopefully is a harbinger of a strong placement season."

Highlighting the importance of Internships to campus placements in IIT Madras, Prof. Ravi Kumar, Advisor (Internships), IIT Madras, said, "Since the creation of the internship cell in 2014 the number of PPOs has continuously increased." "It is obvious that internship provides an opportunity for both the employers and the students to know each, understand the requirements and if companies do feel good about the students who worked as interns, they are likely to be offered PPOs the following year," Kumar added.

Prof Ravi Kumar further said, "Hence, the increase in PPOs is a direct consequence of an effective internship programme. From this year, we have extended the services of the internship cell to MTech students as well and process has been formalised. The entire internship team did a wonderful job in achieving this."

The Day-1 (Aug 11, 2019) of the IIT Madras Internship Drive was a great success. Twenty companies visited the campus and a record number of Internship offers (147 offers) were made, which was 60 per cent more than what was offered on Day-1 last year.

Read: IIT Madras sees 30% more offers this year on Day 3: Check the companies with highest offers

IIT Madras placements 2019-20 A total of 1,334 IIT Madras students have registered for placements for the academic year 2019-20 The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170 They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment Pre-placement offers at IIT Madras: Recent years YEAR

2015-16

2016-17

2017-18

2018-19

2019-20

PPOs

114

135

158*

*(As on 22nd Nov 2019)

IIT Madras internship statistics 2019-20 DETAILS

2018-19

2019-20 (As on 8th Nov 2019)

No. of Companies Registered

181

No. of Profiles Registered

301

160

No. of Companies Offered (Till 8th Nov)

No. of offers (Till 8th Nov)

322

435

No. of Students Registered (Till 8th Nov)

537

958

No. of Students Placed (Till 8th Nov)

291

386

IIT Madras placements 2019-20: Companies with highest number of PPOs The companies that offered the highest number of PPOs are as follows:

Qualcomm: 23 Samsung Research (Noida, Delhi, Bengaluru combined): 8 AB Inbev: 8 Texas Instruments: 8 Intel: 7 IIT Madras placements 2019-20: Major sectors that offered PPOs The Major sectors that offered PPOs are:

Core and R&D: 41 per cent Analytics, Consulting & Finance: 25 per cent FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods): 4 per cent Information Technology: 21 per cent Other Sectors: 9 per cent

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Careers 360 Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Number of Pre-Placement Offers increases again at IIT Madras URL: https://news.careers360.com/number-of-pre-placement-offers-increases-again-at- iit-madras

Number of Pre-Placement Offers increases again at IIT Madras

The number of pre-placement offers for Indian Institute of Technology Madras students has increased this year. By November 22, as many as 158 students have received PPOs, 23 more offers than what the institute saw last year. Despite news of slowdown, several of the IITs have reported increases in the number of PPOs, which are internships converted into job offers, this year. Earlier this month, IIT Hyderabad reported that the number of PPOs for its students has doubled. Full-fledged placements, where companies visit the campus to recruit, begin on December 1, 2019. A total of 1,334 students have registered for this year’s round and 170 companies will participate in Phase I of placements, including 54 startups. They will recruit for 322 profiles, including 35 international ones. Phase II begins in January. ‘Steadily increased’ The statement issued by IIT Madras says that the number of pre-placement offers was just 69 in 2015-’16 and has only grown since. IN 2016, it was 73 and 114 in 2017. “The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship program continues this year,” says a statement from the faculty-members, Manu Santhanam and CS Shankar Ram, advisors to the Training and Placement Cell. “This hopefully is a harbinger of a strong placement season.” The maximum PPOs came from Qualcomm, Samsung Research, AB inbev, Texas Instruments and Intel. 42 percent of the PPOs were in core engineering or research and development sectors. Analystics, consulting and finance together made 25 percent of the offers; the fast-moving consumer goods sector offered four percents; information technology, 21 percent and others, nine percent.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Hindustan Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam andProf. C S Shankar Ram Headline: Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT Madras URL: https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/huge-pre-placement-offers- witnessed-in-iit-madras/story-8us9uspu7i2Xp4lb987VxK.html

Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT Madras

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Money Control Edition: Online Journalist: M Saraswathy Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam andProf. C S Shankar Ram Headline: What slowdown? IIT Madras sees 17% surge in pre-placement offers Video URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BrvwQlUP6Q URL: https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/economy/what-slowdown-iit- madras-sees-17-surge-in-pre-placement-offers-4670981.html

What slowdown? IIT Madras sees 17% surge in pre-placement offers

Despite news of slowdown, several of the IITs have reported increases in the number of PPOs, which are internships converted into job offers, this year. Earlier this month, IIT Hyderabad reported that the number of PPOs for its students has doubled. Full-fledged placements, where companies visit the campus to recruit, begin on December 1, 2019. A total of 1,334 students have registered for this year’s round and 170 companies will participate in Phase I of placements, including 54 startups. They will recruit for 322 profiles, including 35 international ones. Phase II begins in January. ‘Steadily increased’ The statement issued by IIT Madras says that the number of pre-placement offers was just 69 in 2015-’16 and has only grown since. IN 2016, it was 73 and 114 in 2017. “The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship program continues this year,” says a statement from the faculty-members, Manu Santhanam and CS Shankar Ram, advisors to the Training and Placement Cell. “This hopefully is a harbinger of a strong placement season.” The maximum PPOs came from Qualcomm, Samsung Research, AB inbev, Texas Instruments and Intel. 42 percent of the PPOs were in core engineering or research and development sectors. Analystics, consulting and finance together made 25 percent of the offers; the fast-moving consumer goods sector offered four percents; information technology, 21 percent and others, nine percent.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Bangalore Page No: 8 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M job profiles decline from 490 last year to 322

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram, and Prof. Ravi Kumar Headline: Rise in pre-placement offers at IIT-Madras, most jobs from research sector URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/jobs/rise-in-pre-placement-offers-at-iit-madras- most-jobs-from-research-sector-6136314/

Rise in pre-placement offers at IIT-Madras, most jobs from research sector

The number of students who received pre-placement offers has increased, from 135 to 158. (Representational Image)Students of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras have received more pre-placement offers (PPO) than previous years. While last year, the number of students who received PPOs was 135, it has increased to 158 this year. Along with the PPOs, the number of offers made as well as the number of students placed has also increased in this year’s placement season at the institute. However, there has been a decline in the number of companies registering to hire at the IIT. Most offers in the PPOs were made from core and research and development sector with a total of 41 per cent students getting offers in the area. This was followed by analytics, consulting, and finance sector from were 25 per cent of the total offers were made. A similar trend in hiring is expected to be seen in the placement season. In video| Most drop-outs from IITs, IIMs from reserved category Most offers were made by Qualcomm – an America-based multinational semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company. A total of 23 students got offers from the firm before the placements began this year. Advertising A total of 1,334 students have registered to participate in the placement drive. In the phase-I a total of 170 companies will be visiting the campus, of the total of 54 will be startups.

Prof. Ravi Kumar, advisor (internships), IIT-Madras, highlighted that the rise in PPOs is the result of internships. “Since the creation of the internship cell in 2014 the number of PPOs has continuously increased. It is obvious that internship provides an opportunity for both the employers and the students to know each, understand the requirements and if companies do feel good about the students who worked as interns, they are likely to be offered PPOs the following year,” he said. He further added, “From this year, we have extended the services of the internship cell to MTech students as well and the process has been formalised. The entire internship team did a wonderful job in achieving this.”

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Gadgets Now Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram, and Prof. Ravi Kumar Headline: Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras URL: https://www.gadgetsnow.com/tech-news/huge-pre-placement-offers-witnessed- in-iit-madras/articleshow/72223195.cms

Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Chronicle Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-Madras sees increase in pre-placement offers URL: https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/261119/iit-madras-sees- increase-in-pre-placement-offers.html

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Up Market News Edition: Online Journalist: A Shukla Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram Headline: IIT Madras students’ strong show in Internships results in increase in pre- placement offers yet again URL: https://www.upmarketnews.com/latest/iit-madras-students-strong-show-in- internships-results-in-increase-in-pre-placement-offers-yet-again-79.html

IIT Madras students’ strong show in Internships results in increase in pre-placement offers yet again

Indian Institute of Technology, Madras students continued their strong show in Pre- Placement with offers increasing yet again during 2019-20 compared with the preceding Academic Year. As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (as of 22nd Nov 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year.

One of the principal reasons for this strong show in PPOs has been the robust internship program, which results in students getting to intern in companies that are large recruiters. Internships are facilitated through an Institute-coordinated process. The constant increase in PPOs is the result of excellent performance of students during the internships.

A total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20. The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170.They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles.As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment.

Speaking about the increase in PPOs this year, Prof. Manu Santhanam and Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram, Advisors (Training and Placement), IIT Madras, said, “The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship program continues this year. This hopefully is a harbinger of a strong placement season.”

The Day-1 (11th Aug 2019) of Internship Drive was a great success. 20 companies visited the campus and a record number of Internship offers (147 offers) were made, which was 60 per cent more than what was offered on Day-1 last year.

Highlighting the importance of Internships to Campus Placements in IIT Madras, Prof. Ravi Kumar, Advisor (Internships), IIT Madras, said, “Since the creation of the internship cell in 2014 the number of PPOs has continuously increased. It is obvious that internship provides an opportunity for both the employers and the students to know each, understand the requirements and if companies do feel good about the students who worked as interns, they are likely to be offered PPOs the following year.”

“Hence, the increase in PPOs is a direct consequence of an effective internship program. From this year, we have extended the services of the internship cell to MTech students as well and process has been formalised.The entire internship team did a wonderful job in achieving this,” Prof Ravi Kumar added.

Companies that offered the highest number of PPOs are as follows:

Qualcomm:23 Samsung Research (Noida, Delhi, Bengaluru combined):8 ABInbev: 8 Texas Instruments: 8 Intel: 7

The major sectors that offered PPOs during 2019-20 are as follows:

Core and R&D:41 per cent Analytics, Consulting & Finance:25 per cent FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods): 4 per cent Information Technology:21 per cent Other Sectors: 9 per cent

About IITMadras: Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) was established in 1959 by the Government of India as an institute of national importance. The activities of the Institute in various fields of Technology and Science are carried out in 16 academic departments and several advanced interdisciplinary Research Academic Centres. The Institute offers undergraduate and post – graduate programmes leading to the B.Tech., M.Sc., M.B.A., M.Tech., M.S., and Ph.D., degrees in a variety of specialisations. IITM is a residential institute with more than 580 faculty and 9,500 students. Students from 18 countries are enrolled here. IITM fosters an active entrepreneurial culture with strong curricular support and through the IITM Incubation Cell.IITM has been ranked No.1 in the Overall Institutions category in India Rankings 2019 released by National Institutional Ranking Framework, Ministry of Human Resources Development, Govt. of India. The Institute has also been ranked No.1 in the Engineering Institutions category in the same Rankings for four consecutive years – 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019. It was also adjudged as the ‘Top innovative Institution’ in the country in the Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA) 2019 launched by Innovation Cell of MHRD.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Hans India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Chennai: Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras URL: https://www.thehansindia.com/hans/young-hans/chennai-huge-pre-placement- offers-witnessed-in-iit-madras-584494

Chennai: Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras Several multinational companies such as Qualcomm, Samsung and Intel have made pre- placement offers (PPOs) to students of IIT-Madras here, making it as the highest ever in recent years.

Qualcomm has made the PPOs to 23 candidates while Samsung Research, AB Inbev and Texas Instruments made eight each and Intel seven, IIT-Madras said on Monday.

The companies would be looking at 322 profiles, including 35 from overseas, and 54 startups have also registered for the recruitment process, it said.

In 2018-19, the PPOs were 135; 2017-18 saw 114; 2016-17 saw 73; 2015-16 saw 69 offers, the release said.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: UNI Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Strong show by IIT-M students in pre-placement offers URL: http://www.uniindia.com/strong-show-by-iit-m-students-in-pre-placement- offers/south/news/1800537.html

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Chennai Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Pre-Placement offers at IIT-M double URL: https://www.dtnext.in/News/City/2019/11/25155128/1199753/Huge-preplacement- offers-witnessed-in-IITMadras.vpf

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Dinamani Edition: Chennai Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Daily Thanthi Edition: Chennai Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: India Education Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam and Prof. Ravi Kumar Headline: IIT Madras Students’ strong show in Internships results in increase in Pre- Placement Offers yet again URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/iit-madras-students-strong-show-in-internships-results- in-increase-in-pre-placement-offers-yet-again/

IIT Madras Students’ strong show in Internships results in increase in Pre-Placement Offers yet again

Indian Institute of Technology Madras students continued their strong show in Pre- Placement with offers increasing yet again during 2019-20 compared with the preceding Academic Year. As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (as of 22nd Nov 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year.

A total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20. The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170. They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment.

Further Prof Ravi Kumar added, “Hence, the increase in PPOs is a direct consequence of an effective internship program. From this year, we have extended the services of the internship cell to MTech students as well and process has been formalised. The entire internship team did a wonderful job in achieving this.”

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Outlook Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras URL: https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/preplacement-offers-surge-in-iit- madras/1670577

Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras

Student suicide controversy-hit Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) on Monday said that 158 students have secured pre-placement offers.

In a statement issued here IIT-M said: "As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (pre- placement offers as of 22nd Nov 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year."

The institute claimed the increased PPO is due to its internship programme that gives students to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

According to IIT-M, a total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20. The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170.

They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment, the statement said.

The IIT-M was recently mired in controversy as Fathima Latheef a bright student committed suicide allegedly due to religious bias.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: India TV Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras URL: https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/pre-placement-offers-surge-iit-madras- 566484

Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras Student suicide controversy-hit Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) on Monday said that 158 students have secured pre-placement offers. In a statement issued here IIT- M said: "As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (pre-placement offers as of 22nd Nov 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year."

The institute claimed the increased PPO is due to its internship programme that gives students to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

According to IIT-M, a total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20. The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170.

They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment, the statement said.

The IIT-M has recently mired in controversy as Fathima Latheef a bright student committed suicide allegedly due to religious bias.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Daily World Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras URL: https://dailyworld.in/pre-placement-offers-surge-in-iit-madras/

Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras Student suicide controversy-hit Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) on Monday said that 158 students have secured pre-placement offers.

In a statement issued here IIT-M said: “As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (pre- placement offers as of 22nd Nov 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year.”

The institute claimed the increased PPO is due to its internship programme that gives students to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

According to IIT-M, a total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20. The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170.

They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment, the statement said.

The IIT-M was recently mired in controversy as Fathima Latheef a bright student committed suicide allegedly due to religious bias.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: News D Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras URL: https://newsd.in/pre-placement-offers-surge-in-iit-madras/

Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras

Student suicide controversy-hit Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) on Monday said that 158 students have secured pre-placement offers.

In a statement issued here IIT-M said: “As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (pre- placement offers as of 22nd Nov 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year.”

The institute claimed the increased PPO is due to its internship programme that gives students to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

According to IIT-M, a total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20. The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170.

They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment, the statement said.

The IIT-M was recently mired in controversy as Fathima Latheef a bright student committed suicide allegedly due to religious bias.

–IANS

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Devdiscourse Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras URL: https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/education/757456-huge-pre-placement- offers-witnessed-in-iit-madras

Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras Several multinational companies such as Qualcomm, Samsung and Intel have made pre- placement offers (PPOs) to students of IIT-Madras here, making it as the highest ever in recent years. Qualcomm has made the PPOs to 23 candidates while Samsung Research, AB Inbev and Texas Instruments made eight each and Intel seven, IIT-Madras said on Monday.

A total of 1,334 students has registered for placements for 2019-20 and the total number of companies registered for Phase-I of placements is 170. The companies would be looking at 322 profiles, including 35 from overseas, and 54 start-ups have also registered for the recruitment process, it said.

"The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship programme continues this year. This, hopefully, is a harbinger of a strong placement season", IIT-Madras professor C S Shankar Ram and professor Manu Santhanam said. In 2018-19, the PPOs were 135; 2017-18 saw 114; 2016-17 saw 73; 2015-16 saw 69 offers, the release said..

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Window to News Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras URL: http://www.windowtonews.com/news.php?id=291893&cat_id=17

Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras

Student suicide controversy-hit Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) on Monday said that 158 students have secured pre-placement offers. In a statement issued here IIT-M said: "As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (pre- placement offers as of 22nd Nov 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year." The institute claimed the increased PPO is due to its internship programme that gives students to intern in companies that are large recruiters. According to IIT-M, a total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20. The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170. They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment, the statement said. The IIT-M was recently mired in controversy as Fathima Latheef a bright student committed suicide allegedly due to religious bias.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Andhravilas.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras URL: http://www.andhravilas.net/en/Pre-placement-offers-surge-in-IIT-Madras

Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Social news XYZ Edition: Online Journalist: Gopi Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras URL: https://www.socialnews.xyz/2019/11/25/pre-placement-offers-surge-in-iit-madras/

Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras Student suicide controversy-hit Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) on Monday said that 158 students have secured pre-placement offers.

In a statement issued here IIT-M said: "As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (pre- placement offers as of 22nd Nov 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year."

The institute claimed the increased PPO is due to its internship programme that gives students to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

According to IIT-M, a total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20. The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170.

They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment, the statement said.

The IIT-M was recently mired in controversy as Fathima Latheef a bright student committed suicide allegedly due to religious bias.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: English Manorama Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras URL: http://www.english.metrovaartha.com/news/17818/huge-pre-placement-offers- witnessed-in-iit-madras

Huge pre-placement offers witnessed in IIT-Madras

Several multinational companies such as Qualcomm, Samsung and Intel have made pre- placement offers (PPOs) to students of IIT-Madras here, making it as the highest ever in recent years.

Qualcomm has made the PPOs to 23 candidates while Samsung Research, AB Inbev and Texas Instruments made eight each and Intel seven, IIT-Madras said on Monday.

The companies would be looking at 322 profiles, including 35 from overseas, and 54 startups have also registered for the recruitment process, it said.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Can India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. C S Shankar Ram and Prof. Manu Santhanam Headline: Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras URL: http://www.canindia.com/pre-placement-offers-surge-in-iit-madras/

Pre-placement offers surge in IIT Madras

Student suicide controversy-hit Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) on Monday said that 158 students have secured pre-placement offers.

In a statement issued here IIT-M said: “As many as 158 students have secured PPOs (pre- placement offers as of 22nd Nov 2019) as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year.”

The institute claimed the increased PPO is due to its internship programme that gives students to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

According to IIT-M, a total of 1,334 students have registered for placements for the Academic Year 2019-20. The total number of companies registered for Phase I of Placements is 170.

They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. As many as 54 startups are also coming for recruitment, the statement said.

The IIT-M was recently mired in controversy as Fathima Latheef a bright student committed suicide allegedly due to religious bias.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: The Pioneer Edition: Delhi Page No: 14 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram Headline: Increase Pre-Placement offers at IIT Madras

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Jagran Josh Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram Headline: Pre-Placement Offers increased at IIT Madras in the 2019-20 batch URL: https://www.jagranjosh.com/news/pre-placement-offers-increased-at-iit-madras- in-the-2019-20-batch-152380

Pre-Placement Offers increased at IIT Madras in the 2019-20 batch

The students of the Indian Institute of Technology Madras have continued to perform in the pre-placements with the offered increasing for the 2019-20 batches as compared to the previous years. According to reports, close to 158 students have secured pre- placement offers in the 2019-20 batch as compared to the 135 students during the 2018- 29 academic years.

According to a statement released by the institute, one of the main reasons for such a good number is the robust internship programmes which have resulted in the students getting a chance to complete an internship in the companies which are the main recruiters. The internships which are facilitated through an institute-coordinated process helped in the constant increase in the pre-placement offers which in turn resulted in the excellent performance of the students during the internship.

According to the reports released, a total of 1,334 students registered for the placements for the 2019-20 academic years. About 170 companies registered for Phase 1 of the placements at IIT Madras. These companies will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles which also includes 35 international profiles. Along with this, a total of 54 startups are also participating in the recruitment process.

Professor Manu Santhanam and Professor CS Shankar Ram, Advisors (Training and Placement) at IIT Madras while speaking about the increase in the pre-placement offers this year said that the streak of increasing pre-placement offers through the internship programme has continued this year’s and hopefully is a forerunner of a strong placement season this academic year as well.

On the first day of the internship drive, about 20 companies visited the campus and 147 offers of the internship were made which amounted to 60 percent more than what was offered on the first day of the internship drive conducted last year.

While speaking about the importance of internships to the campus placements, Professor Ravi Kumar, Advisor (Internships) at IIT Madras said that since the advent of the internship cell in 2014, the number of pre-placement offers has increased continuously. He also added that the internships provide an opportunity for the employers and the students to get to know each other and understand the requirements. And if the companies feel good about the interns who worked they are likely to offer the Pre-placement offered in the following year.

He also pointed out that the increase in the pre-placement offers is a direct consequence of effective internship programmes and from this year onwards the institutions have extended the services of the internship cell to the M.Tech students also and the process has been formalized.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Times Now Edition: Online Journalist: Papri Chanda Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram Headline: IIT Madras pre placement offers witness 17 percent rise, placement to start in December URL: https://www.timesnownews.com/education/article/iit-madras-pre-placement- offers-witnesses-17-percent-rise-placement-to-start-in-december/519607

IIT Madras pre placement offers witness 17 percent rise, placement to start in December Indian Institute of Technology, IIT Madras pre-placement sessions have begun and the university has witnessed a 17 percent rise in pre-placement offers (PPOs) this year. Various multinational companies have given PPOs to students of the varsity before the commencement of final placement in the varsity.

This year, the pre-placement offers have touched the highest ever in recent years. According to the tweet shared by IIT Madras, a total of 158 students have secured PPOs this year which is quite high if compared to last year. In the 2018-19 academic year, 135 students of the varsity received pre-placement offers. The companies that offered the highest number of PPOs are Qualcomm, Samsung Research, AB Inbev, Texas Instruments, and Intel. Qualcomm has made the PPOs to 23 candidates while Samsung Research, AB Inbev, and Texas Instruments made eight each and Intel seven.

The major sectors that offered PPOs this academic session 2019-20 are Core and R&D with 41 percent, Analytics, Consulting and Finance with 25 percent, FMCG with 4 percent, Information Technology with 21 percent and other sectors with 9 percent.

@iitmadras IIT Madras Students’ strong show in Pre-Placement Offers yet again. As many as 158 students have secured PPOs as against 135 during entire 2018-19 Academic Year. From this year, we have extended the services of the internship cell to MTech students as well. #IITMplacements

PPOs were given to those students who worked as an intern with a company in May-June of the previous year. The offer was made to students based on their performance during the internship.

IIT-Madras professor C S Shankar Ram and professor Manu Santhanam while speaking to PTI said, “The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship program continues this year. This, hopefully, is a harbinger of a strong placement season.”

The companies would be looking at 322 profiles, including 35 from overseas. Around 54 start-ups companies have also registered for the recruitment process. The placement session would begin in December 2019.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Kochi Page No: 8 Journalist: NA Headline: Slump effect? Fewer cos head to IIT-M this season

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Business Insider Edition: Online Journalist: Prerna Sindwani Headline: Over 1,200 IITians bag pre-placement offers — and there are more to go URL: https://www.businessinsider.in/careers/news/over-1200-students-bag-pre- placement-offers-at-iit-delhi-iit-guwahati-iit-madras-iit-hyderabad-and-there-are-more- to-go/articleshow/72239289.cms

Over 1,200 IITians bag pre-placement offers — and there are more to go

Indian Institute of Technology, IIT Madras pre-placement sessions have begun and the university has witnessed a 17 percent rise in pre-placement offers (PPOs) this year. Various multinational companies have given PPOs to students of the varsity before the commencement of final placement in the varsity.

PPOs were given to those students who worked as an intern with a company in May-June of the previous year. The offer was made to students based on their performance during the internship.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Pagal Guy Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram Headline: IIT Madras Pre-Placement Offers Rises to 17 percent, Placement Details on iitm.ac.in, Starts from Dec 2019 URL: https://www.pagalguy.com/articles/iit-madras-pre-placement-offers-rises-to-17- percent-placement-details-on-iitm-ac-in-starts-from-dec-2019

IIT Madras Pre-Placement Offers Rises to 17 percent, Placement Details on iitm.ac.in, Starts from Dec 2019 IIT Madras Pre-Placement Offers Rises to 17 percent.

Indian Institute of Technology, Madras has started with the pre-placement officers. And there has been 17 percent increase this year in Pre-placement officers as compared to the last year. There are various multinational companies that have offered pre- placement offers to the students of the varsity. The final placement will begin in December 2019 and companies include Qualcomm, Samsung Research, AB InBev and other multinational companies Comparison in PPOs: According to the authorities of IIT, Madras, the pre-placement offers has been increased and has touched the highest ever in recent years. There are total of 158 students who have secured the pre-placement officer in year 2019 which is quite high when compared to the PPOs last year. There were total of 135 students who were offered pre-placement offers in 2018-19 year. The official website to get more details is https://www.iitm.ac.in/ . The following is break down of Pre-placement offers offered by each company: –

Company Name Pre-placement offered given

Qualcomm 23

Samsung Research 8

AB InBev 8

Texas Instruments 8 Intel 7

In this academic session of 2019-20, the major sectors that offered Pre-placement offers are 41 percent for the core and R&D, 25 percent for the Analytics, Consulting and Finance, 21 percent for Information technology, 9 percent with other sectors and 4 percent for FMCG, Important details: The pre-placement offers are given to candidates on the basis of their performance during the internship. The PPOs are given only to the students who worked as an intern with a company in May-June of the previous year. In the words of professors, professor C S Shankar Ram and professor Manu Santhanam, from IIT, Madras, “he trends of increasing PPOs through our internship program continues this year. This, hopefully, is a harbinger of a strong placement season”. The placement session will begin in December 2020 and the companies will look into around 322 profiles which includes 35 profile from overseas. Approximately 54 start-up companies have also registered for the recruitment process.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Shiksha.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram, and Prof. Ravi Kumar Headline: IIT Madras Pre-Placement Offers witness increase URL: https://www.shiksha.com/b-tech/articles/iit-madras-pre-placement-offers-witness- increase-blogId-26175

IIT Madras Pre-Placement Offers witness increase

Students at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras are displaying their strong show with pre-placement offers increasing again during the academic session 2019-20 as compared with the preceding academic year. As of November 22, 2019, a total of 158 students have secured pre-placement offers (PPOs) as against 135 during the entire 2018- 19 academic year.

According to a statement from the IIT Madras, one of the principal reasons for this increase in PPOs has been the robust internship programme. This results in students getting to intern in companies that are large recruiters.

Internships are facilitated through an Institute-coordinated process. The constant increase in PPOs is the result of the brilliant performance of students during internships. A total of 1,334 students have registered for placements this year.

According to Prof. Manu Santhanam and Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram, Advisors (Training and Placement), IIT Madras, "The trend of increasing PPOs through our internship programme continues this year. This hopefully is an indicator of a strong placement season."

On day 1 of the internship drive, 20 companies visited the campus and a record number of 147 Internship offers were made. This was 60 per cent more than what was offered on day 1 last year.

Speaking on the importance of internships to Campus Placements in IIT Madras, Prof. Ravi Kumar, Advisor (Internships), IIT Madras, said, "Since the beginning of the internship cell in the year 2014, the number of PPOs has continuously increased. The internship provides an opportunity to both, the employers and the students, to know each other, understand the requirements and offer PPO to interns if companies do feel good about them. Starting this year, we have extended the services of the internship cell to MTech students as well.

The total number of companies registered for Phase I of IITM placements is 170. They will be recruiting for a total of 322 profiles, including 35 international profiles. Further, this year, 54 startups are also visiting for recruitment.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: News Nation Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam, Prof. C. S. Shankar Ram Headline: Huge Pre-Placement Offers Witnessed At IIT Madras URL: https://www.newsnation.in/education/more/huge-pre-placement-offers- witnessed-at-iit-madras-245395.html

Huge Pre-Placement Offers Witnessed At IIT Madras Several multinational companies such as Qualcomm, Samsung and Intel have made pre- placement offers (PPOs) to students of IIT-Madras here, making it as the highest ever in recent years. Qualcomm has made the PPOs to 23 candidates while Samsung Research, AB Inbev and Texas Instruments made eight each and Intel seven, IIT-Madras said on Monday.

As many as 158 students have secured PPOs as against 135 in 2018-19, the release said. A total of 1,334 students has registered for placements for 2019-20 and the total number of companies registered for Phase-I of placements is 170. The companies would be looking at 322 profiles, including 35 from overseas, and 54 start-ups have also registered for the recruitment process, it said.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: ETV Bharat Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Increase Pre-Placement offers at IIT Madras URL: https://www.etvbharat.com/tamil/tamil-nadu/state/chennai/iitm-students- internships-increase-iit-prof/tamil-nadu20191126114704326

Increase Pre-Placement offers at IIT Madras

Several multinational companies such as Qualcomm, Samsung and Intel have made pre- placement offers (PPOs) to students of IIT-Madras here, making it as the highest ever in recent years. Qualcomm has made the PPOs to 23 candidates while Samsung Research, AB Inbev and Texas Instruments made eight each and Intel seven, IIT-Madras said on Monday.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Nyoooz Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-Madras witnesses huge pre-placement offers URL: https://www.nyoooz.com/news/chennai/1419835/iitmadras-witnesses-huge- preplacement-offers/

IIT-Madras witnesses huge pre-placement offers

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: Patrika Edition: Online Journalist: Magan Daramola Professor: Prof. Manu Santhanam andProf. C. S. Shankar Ram Headline: Increase Pre-Placement offers at IIT Madras URL: https://www.patrika.com/chennai-news/iit-madras-students-get-more-pre- placement-offers-5417954/

IIT Madras is an industry friendly institute Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras to launch indigenous standing wheelchair today

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Chennai Page No: 1 Journalist: NA Headline: Launch of 'Arise': IIT-M to unveil standing wheelchair URL: https://www.dtnext.in/News/City/2019/11/05040458/1195745/Launch-of-Arise-IITM- to-unveil-standing-wheelchair.vpf

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras develops an affordable standing wheelchair URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/iit-madras-develops-affordable- standing-wheelchair/article29888552.ece

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Business Line Edition: Kolkata / Chennai / Hyderabad / Kochi / Mumbai / Delhi / Ahmedabad / Bangalore Page No: 16 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: II'T-Madras launches affordable standing wheelchair URL: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/variety/iit-madras-launches- affordable-standing-wheelchair/article29890283.ece

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Made in IU-Madras this wheelchair helps people with injured spine to stand

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Asian Age Edition: Delhi / Mumbai / Kolkata Page No: 12 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras launches ‘Arise Indias 1st standing wheelchair

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Pioneer Edition: Delhi / Chandigarh / Hyderabad Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Country's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair launched URL: https://www.dailypioneer.com/2019/india/country-s-first-indigenously-designed- standing-wheelchair-launched.html

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Financial Express Edition: Bangalore / Hyderabad / Chennai / Ahmedabad Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M unveils Indias first indigenously designed ‘standing wheelchair

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Hyderabad / Chennai / Kochi Page No: 10 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchair URL: http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/06/iit-madras- launches-standing-wheelchair-at-an-affordable-price-2057484.html

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Morning Standard Edition: Delhi Page No: 10 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchair

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Punya Nagri Edition: Mumbai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchair

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Telangana Today Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchair URL: https://telanganatoday.com/iit-madras-launches-indias-first-indigenously- designed-standing-wheelchair

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Chronicle Edition: Chennai / Kochi Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras develops nations first standing wheelchair URL: https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/061119/iit-madras- develops-nations-first-standing-wheelchair.html

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Andhra Jyothi Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 11 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan (డ్ 푀졍 案쁍 (The first domestic standing wheelchairﰂHeadline: 遊젿 顇�య ట డ

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Mana Telangana

Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan (డ్ 푀졍 案쁍 (Standing wheelchairﰂHeadline: ట డ

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Daily Thanthi (clip attached) Edition: Chennai Page No: 15 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras launches affordable standing wheelchair

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The News Minute Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously developed ‘Standing Wheelchair’ URL: https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/iit-madras-launches-india-s-first- indigenously-developed-standing-wheelchair-111801

IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously developed ‘Standing Wheelchair’

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India's first indigenously-designed 'Standing Wheelchair.

The standing wheel chair branded as Arise enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

According to IITM, the wheel chair was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development at IITM, headed by Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

The commercialisation of the wheel chair technology was made possible through support from Wellcome, UK, through an 'Affordable Healthcare in India' Award, which brought together the research and manufacturing partners.

Speaking about the importance of this launch, Gehlot said "In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but have not seen such a good standing wheel chair anywhere in the world," Gehlot was quoted as saying in the statement.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs. Arise was designed such that the user can actuate it from the sitting position to the standing position and vice versa independently and in a controlled manner. This can be done using the power of the user’s arms. Arise was found to be stable even in outdoor use in rural areas, on uneven terrain.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Hindustan Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches country’s first indigenously designed standing wheelchair URL: https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/iit-madras-launches-country-s-first- indigenously-designed-standing-wheelchair/story-

IIT Madras launches country’s first indigenously designed standing wheelchair

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India's first indigenously-designed 'Standing Wheelchair.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express - Edex Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches India's first 'standing wheelchair' URL: https://www.edexlive.com/people/2019/nov/05/iit-madras-launches-indias-first- standing-wheelchair-8915.html

IIT Madras launches India's first 'standing wheelchair'

IIT Madras, one of the nation’s premier academic institute, has joined forces with Phoenix Medical Solutions to develop ‘Arise’, the wheelchair that can lift its user to about 70 degrees upright, allowing them to have a normal conversation with those around them, as opposed to being looked down at with a certain degree of sympathy. Through its research and development branch, IIT Madras spent five years perfecting the ‘grid model’ with the help of its own final year students as well as experienced engineers. The radical wheelchair, priced at Rs. 15,000 per piece, was officially launched on November 5, 2019 at the IIT Madras Research Centre in Chennai, by the Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot.

The event was a glamorous one, as the other dignitaries included the Managing Director of Phoenix Medical Solutions, Sashi Kumar, the Director of IIT Madras, Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, several of IIT Madras’ senior professors, and Prof Sujatha Srinivasan, the Founder and Head of R2D2. The minister gave a patriotic speech after lighting the lamp, which signaled the official launch of the wheelchair.

Elaborating on the importance of this venture, Prof Sujatha said that, “We have learned a lot during our Arise development journey – the importance of flexible funding focused on impact, the need for a like-minded industry partner, and the merit in involving users and the rehabilitation community in the development. We are applying these learnings to our other projects.” She explained how the wheelchair was originally a thesis project for one of IIT Madras’ final year students years ago, and how it dawned on them that this device, if brought to life, could make a significant impact on the lives of those we label ‘disabled.’ Securing the necessary funds was the first big challenge. “We knew that the funding component was going to be tough. Thankfully, we partnered with Wellcome Innovations Team, who pooled in over Rs. 6 crore. It was the kick-start that we needed,” says Sujatha.

She led the team throughout the entire process, which spanned more than half a decade. Right from conceptualisation and R&D to production, Sujatha oversaw the process the entire way. “Arise was tested on more than 50 people with spinal injuries. Their feedback was positive, with a couple of them pointing out that they were able to stand independently after three years. The wheelchair was found to be stable even in outdoor use in rural areas, on uneven terrain,” she remarks.

Enhanced security cover for 19 med schools in Karnataka: Deputy CM JNU Provost resigns, students rejoice at first taste of win The Arise wheelchair resembles any other wheelchair, with almost all of the usual external features. Where it ‘arises’ to a whole other level is in the way the levers operate. When the user wants to meet or greet people the way regular individuals do, all they have to do is to turn the twin levers on both sides of the wheelchair. The intricate system of hydraulics automatically starts extending upwards, resulting in the chair being turned to around 70 degrees. This exposes a second set of levers that can be rotated, which ultimately leads to the user being held almost upright by the chair, with their feel supported by the footrest. A thick strap binds the user in place, eliminating the possibility of them tumbling out.

“We thought of making it a permanent feature, so that the user could move around in that upright position. But because of safety reasons, and the additional costs it would incur, we curbed the idea,” says Sujatha. Affordability and impact are the two words that the researchers catered to the most.

The new indigenous wheelchair certainly holds immense potential, and as evidence to this, the users of the wheelchair that day ‘stood’ for the national anthem for the very first time in their lives!

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Made in IIT-Madras URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/made-in-iit-madras-this- wheelchair-helps-people-with-injured-spine-to-stand/articleshow/71930102.cms

Made in IIT-Madras

An indigenous wheelchair, designed and developed by Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, promises the differently-abled a better quality of life, as it will help them stand in a controlled manner without any assistance.

Named ‘Arise’, the ‘standing wheelchair’ is expected to relieve conventional wheelchair-bound people from a host of difficulties including secondary health problems like poor blood circulation and pressure sores arising out of being in a seated position for long durations.

“The thing that prevents people with paraplegia from standing is that they don’t have control over their knees. Our standing wheelchair is designed to support the knees and the upper body and therefore provides a controlled standing. So, the users can lift themselves up because the weight is being taken care by the wheelchair,” said professor Sujatha Srinivasan, department of mechanical engineering and head of TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development at IIT Madras, which designed and developed the wheelchair.

Developers of ‘Arise’ said it suits best for those who are paralysed due to spinal cord injuries or due to diseases or those who already use lower limb prosthesis. ‘Arise’ works on a mechanical design where the user can stand on the footrest by pulling the two levers on either side of the wheelchair. Srinivasan said a gas spring enables the user to stand with very little effort and balances his or her weight. The wheelchair comes in four sizes, for weights up to 100kg, with several adjustable features such the back rest and height. It can be customised to suit the needs of the user.

Though designed for motorised movement, which could enable users to stand and move around, the professor said it was not incorporated in the final design for safety reasons. Wow what invention. Thanks Madras IIT for this types of invention will helps injury peoples for their personal life improvement. This is a great job for them who invented this types of gadgets.

Ashok Kumar, 36, from Thiruvanmiyur, who suffered a spine injury a few years ago and has used the wheelchair for four months, said it had brought many small but significant changes to his life. “It is priceless to see my two-year-old daughter smile when I stand and lift her. I am also able to stand and bowl when I play cricket with my son. Also, my spasm has reduced and I feel confident,” said Kumar.

Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union minister for social justice and empowerment, who launched the wheelchair, said, “I look forward to cooperating with IIT Madras in the future. We will try to provide standing wheelchairs to the needy through the ministry, MLA constituency development and CSR funds.”

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Gadgets Now Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Prof. Ashok Jhunjunwala, and Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs URL: https://www.gadgetsnow.com/tech-news/iit-madras-launches-standing- wheelchairs/articleshow/71927095.cms

IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches India's first standing wheelchair URL: https://www.business-standard.com/multimedia/video-gallery/general/iit-madras- launches-india-s-first-standing-wheelchair-93808.htm

IIT Madras launches India's first standing wheelchair

IIT Madras launches India's first standing wheelchair Chennai, Nov 06 (ANI): India's one of the top colleges, IIT Madras launched first indigenously designed standing wheelchair 'Arise'. The state-of-the art wheelchair can enable specially-abled people to shift from sitting to standing position using simple lever.

It was launched in presence of Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thawarchand Gehlot. Standing wheelchairs will hit the market soon in affordable price.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Times Now Edition: Online Journalist: Papri Chanda Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches ‘Arise-A Standing Wheelchair’ for disabled today URL: https://www.timesnownews.com/education/article/iit-madras-launches-standing- wheelchair-for-disabled/511706

IIT Madras launches ‘Arise-A Standing Wheelchair’ for disabled today

Indian Institute of Technology, IIT, Madras has launched the newly designed standing wheelchair today. The unveiling of ‘Arise-A Standing Wheelchair’ was done by Shri. Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment at IIT Madras Research Park. IIT, Madras in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India's first indigenously-designed standing wheelchair

The standing wheelchair named ‘Arise’ is designed by TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research & Device Development, R2D2. The purpose of this wheelchair is that it will help a person in a wheelchair to stand without any help. "It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner," a release from the university said.

Professor Sujatha Srinivasan, Department of mechanical engineering, IIT Madras who also is the head of R2D2 lab said TOI that, “Using wheelchair all the time can give secondary health issues like lowered blood circulation, sore body, and pressure sores. One needs to stand at least three times a week. But, standing is not possible due to their condition and they need support from other people. The standing wheelchair will cost the same as a normal wheelchair."

Since 2015, with CSR support from TTK Prestige,the Centre was involved in research related to human movement, influence of orthotic and prosthetic devices on human movement, and the design and development of mechanisms, products and assistive devices for people with impairments, it said.

"Thanks to a novel mass-manufacturable mechanical design.... and Phoenix's manufacturing capabilities, Arise will be made available at affordable prices," it said. Gehlot lauded IIT, Madras for its initiative, and also recalled the Narendra Modi government's various welfare measures for the 'divyang,' including setting up five national-level sophisticated sports centres for differently abled sportspersons in different parts of the country.

According to Sashi Kumar, Managing Director, Phoenix Medical Systems, testing partners for 'Arise' included NGOs, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, individual users and clinicians who provided inputs.

The initiative also had the support of Wellcome, an UK-based foundation, the release said. Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: One India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches country’s first indigenously designed standing wheelchair 'Arise' URL: https://www.oneindia.com/india/iit-madras-launches-country-first-indigenously- designed-standing-wheelchair-arise-2973008.html

IIT Madras launches country’s first indigenously designed standing wheelchair 'Arise'

IIT Madras launched 'Arise', country's 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair. These wheelchairs enable a differently-abled person shift from sitting to standing position & vice-versa independently.

Named 'Arise', the standing wheelchair was launched in the presence of Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot at the institute. IIT, Madras "in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India's first indigenously-designed standing wheelchair," it said.

IIT, Madras "in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India's first indigenously-designed standing wheelchair," it said.

It was designed and developed by the institute's TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2), headed by Prof Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Since 2015, with CSR support from TTK Prestige, the Centre was involved in research related to human movement, influence of orthotic and prosthetic devices on human movement, and the design and development of mechanisms, products and assistive devices for people with impairments, it said. "Thanks to a novel mass-manufacturable mechanical design and Phoenix's manufacturing capabilities, Arise will be made available at affordable prices," it said.

Gehlot lauded IIT, Madras for its initiative, and also recalled the Narendra Modi government's various welfare measures for the 'divyang,' including setting up five national-level sophisticated sports centres for differently-abled sportspersons in different parts of the country. According to Sashi Kumar, Managing Director, Phoenix Medical Systems, testing partners for 'Arise' included NGOs, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, individual users and clinicians who provided inputs. The initiative also had the support of Wellcome, an UK-based foundation, the release said.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India - Education Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Ever heard of a standing wheelchair? IIT Madras launches the first one in India URL: https://www.educationtimes.com/article/newsroom/71923254/iit-madras- launches-standing-wheelchair-that-helps-differently-abled-people-stand-without- external-help.html

Ever heard of a standing wheelchair? IIT Madras launches the first one in India

Health problems caused due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using the standing wheelchair instead of conventional wheelchairs

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India’s first indigenously-designed ‘standing wheelchair.’ It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

Called ‘Arise’, the standing wheelchair was designed and developed by the TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras, headed by Sujatha Srinivasan in the department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras.

Users of conventional wheelchairs face many difficulties and being in a seated position for long durations can lead to secondary health problems such as poor blood circulation and pressure sores. Problems caused due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs. Users can, by themselves, use standing wheelchairs to arise from the seated position to a standing position and vice versa.

Bhaskar Ramamurthi, director, IIT Madras, said, “The centre has become the research and innovation hub for several affordable assistive technologies and the standing wheelchair is one such sterling example.”

In the first stage, a hand-operated, linkage-based mechanism was developed to achieve the standing functionality. A proof-of-concept prototype was used to validate the functioning of the standing mechanism. With optimal one-time fitting, the effort required is no more than that required to propel the wheelchair. A gas-spring was a key element in reducing the effort expended by the user. At the final stage, Arise was tested by more than 50 people with spinal injuries.

One of the safety features of the product is the interlocking mechanism, which ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state if the knee block is not in position. The dimensions of the wheelchair were made adjustable and adequate safety features were incorporated. “A one-time custom-fitting of Arise is necessary to provide maximum benefit to the user. To maximize impact of our devices the centre will now create awareness about the wheelchair’s suitability, availability, and necessary fitting and training,” added Sujatha Srinivasan, founder and head of R2D2.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: ANI Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds efforts URL: https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/iit-madras-launches-first- indigenously-designed-standing-wheelchair-union-minister-lauds-efforts20191106092558/

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Outlook Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs URL: https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/iit-madras-launches-standing- wheelchairs/1655934

IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India''s first indigenously-designed ''Standing Wheelchair,'' the IITM said.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

The commercialisation of the wheel chair technology was made possible through support from Wellcome, UK, through an ''Affordable Healthcare in India'' Award, which brought together the research and manufacturing partners.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Wion News Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: ‘Arise’: IIT Madras’ affordable standing wheelchair to be commercially available URL: https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arise-iit-madras-affordable-standing- wheelchair-to-be-commercially-available-260180

‘Arise’: IIT Madras’ affordable standing wheelchair to be commercially available

A study quoted by the World Health Organization states that over 65 million people across the globe require a wheelchair for mobility, but higher estimates suggest that only 9.75 million people (most of whom are in higher-income countries) have access to wheelchairs, while an even fewer number have access to appropriate kinds of wheelchairs.

Those that require a wheelchair also face challenges such as lack of awareness, high costs and even low availability of quality products. But the hardships don’t end there, as being seated on a wheelchair for long hours also causes secondary health issues such as poor blood circulation, spasms and pressure sores.

A collaborative effort between IIT Madras and their industry partners aims to help the differently-abled in overcoming most of these challenges. The IIT Madras, in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched what they call India’s first indigenously- designed ‘Standing Wheelchair.’ It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

The standing wheelchair called ‘Arise’ was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT-M, headed by Prof Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

The project initially began as a student project and later its commercialisation was made possible through support from Wellcome, UK, through an ‘Affordable Healthcare in India Award', which brought together the research and manufacturing partners. A 16-member team had been working on developing various prototypes over the last four years.

The three-wheeled chair that costs Rs 15,000 comes is four different sizes depending on the body type and can be customised based on posture, while also being mass manufactured. Arise was designed in such a way that the user can actuate it from the sitting position to the standing position and vice versa using the power of the user’s arms. Besides knee pads, front and back support, adjustable footrests, Arise has an interlocking mechanism, which ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state if the knee block is not in position.

Speaking at the launch event, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment said, “I have seen a lot of scientific developments in India and abroad over the last 5-6 years, but I haven’t seen such a good standing wheelchair in any country. When such wheelchairs are made in India, why is there a need to import?”

Speaking to WION Dr Sujatha Srinivasan, head of the R2D2 lab said, “The wheelchair has been designed and built in such a way that that effort required for the user to stand using it is equal to or less than that of moving the wheelchair, as we have used a linkage with spring balancing system. We have extensively tested it with over 50 users form various institutions such as Christian Medical College Vellore, Mobility India and St Johns Hospitals”.

Statistics quoted by the WHO say that only one in ten physically challenged people have access to assistive technology, but when they are provided the necessary aid, it could improve their access to education, employment and social participation.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Daily World Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs URL: https://dailyworld.in/iit-madras-launches-standing-wheelchairs/

IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India’s first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair,’ the IITM said.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

The commercialisation of the wheel chair technology was made possible through support from Wellcome, UK, through an ‘Affordable Healthcare in India’ Award, which brought together the research and manufacturing partners.

Speaking about the importance of this launch, Gehlot said “In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but have not seen such a good standing wheel chair anywhere in the world,” Gehlot was quoted as saying in the statement.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Ummid.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Launched: India's first indigenously-designed Standing Wheelchair URL: https://www.ummid.com/news/2019/november/05.11.2019/launched-indias-first- indigenously-designed-standing-wheelchair.html

Launched: India's first indigenously-designed Standing Wheelchair

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India's first indigenously-designed 'Standing Wheelchair,' the IIT-M said.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

According to IIT-M, the wheel chair was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development at IITM, headed by Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Sakshi Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’ URL: https://english.sakshi.com/national/2019/11/05/iit-m-makes-indias-first-indigenously- designed-standing-wheelchair

IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’

The IIT-Madras on Tuesday launched the country's "first indigenously" designed standing wheelchair, 'Arise', which will enable a differently - abled person to shift from sitting to standing position.

Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot launched the standing wheelchair in Chennai.

IIT, Madras "in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India's first indigenously-designed standing wheelchair," a release from the university said.

"It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner," it read.

"Thanks to a novel mass-manufacturable mechanical design.... and Phoenix's manufacturing capabilities, Arise will be made available at affordable prices," it said.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: News Meter Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’ URL: https://newsmeter.in/iit-madras-launches-indias-first-standing-wheelchair/

IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’

Indian Institute of Technology Madras has launched India’s first standing wheelchair. The indigenously designed wheelchair, called Arise, will enable the differently abled people, who require a wheelchair, to shift between sitting and standing, independently and in a controlled manner.

Headed by Prof Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras, the standing wheelchair was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras.

Highlighting the work being done by R2D2, Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras, said, “The centre, created with a generous endowment from our distinguished alumnus TT Jagannathan, has become the research and innovation hub for several affordable assistive technologies, which would otherwise never have been worked upon and delivered. The standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ is one such example. The Centre and Phoenix Medical Systems are to be congratulated for their persistent efforts to make the device user-friendly and affordable.”

Speaking about the importance of this launch, Thawar Chand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, “In the last five years, I have seen many modern technologies in India and abroad. However, I have not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world. I am delighted and impressed. I congratulate IIT Madras and its partners for coming up with such nice equipment, which is multipurpose and beneficial for health, besides being cost-effective.”

Minimize problems due to prolonged sitting After being in a seated position for long durations, users of conventional wheelchairs face a host of difficulties, which can lead to secondary health problems such as poor blood circulation and pressure sores. However, since most users require considerable effort and assistance to attain a standing position, they do not stand as frequently as they wish to.

According to IIT Madras, the standing wheelchair helps reduce problems due to prolonged sitting. Users can independently use standing wheelchairs. It can be hugely beneficial to the health, self-esteem, and sense of well-being of users as they can arise from their seated position to a standing position and vice versa using their arms.

Arise was tested by more than 50 people with spinal injuries. Their feedback was positive, and they pointed out that Arise allowed them to interact with people at eye level.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Newsd Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs URL: https://newsd.in/iit-madras-launches-standing-wheelchairs/

IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India’s first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair,’ the IITM said.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Social News XYZ Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs URL: https://www.socialnews.xyz/2019/11/05/iit-madras-launches-standing-wheelchairs/

IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India's first indigenously-designed 'Standing Wheelchair,' the IITM said.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Byscoop Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras develops India’s “first indigenously” designed standing wheelchair named Arise URL: https://www.byscoop.com/iit-madras-develops-indias-first-indigenously-designed- standing-wheelchair-named-arise/

IIT Madras develops India’s “first indigenously” designed standing wheelchair named Arise

IIT Madras develops India’s “first indigenously” designed standing wheelchair named Arise Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, has launched the country’s “first indigenously” designed standing wheelchair. It is named ‘Arise’. It will enable a differently-abled person to shift from sitting to standing position. Arise has been launched by IIT, Madras in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems. The standing wheelchair was launched in the presence of Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Latestly Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras Launches 'first Indigenously' Designed Standing Wheelchair, Union Minister Lauds Efforts URL: https://www.latestly.com/agency-news/iit-madras-launches-first-indigenously- designed-standing-wheelchair-union-minister-lauds-efforts-1317492.html

IIT Madras Launches 'first Indigenously' Designed Standing Wheelchair, Union Minister Lauds Efforts

In a laudable initiative, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras has launched country's 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair- 'Arise' for assisting the specially-abled person in day to day activities.These customised wheelchairs enable a differently-abled person to shift from sitting to standing position and vice-versa independently.Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot was also present at the launch of 'Arise'.

Lauding the efforts of IIT Madras, Gehlot said, "IIT Madras has done a wonderful job, I have never seen such a standing wheelchair even in a foreign country."He also stated that his ministry will be extended the necessary help, if required to extend the benefits of this initiative to more and more specially-able citizens."I would like my ministry to collaborate with IIT Madras to provide this wheelchair to 'Divyangs' all over the country. If the need arises my ministry would also help financially to this initiative", Gehlot said.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Hans India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: Country's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair rolled out URL: https://www.thehansindia.com/hans/young-hans/countrys-first-indigenously- designed-standing-wheelchair-rolled-out-578700

Country's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair rolled out

Premier technical varsity, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, on Tuesday launched the country's "first indigenously" designed standing wheelchair, which will enable a differently - abled person shift from sitting to standing position.

Named 'Arise', the standing wheelchair was launched in the presence of Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot at the institute here.IIT, Madras "in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India's first indigenously- designed standing wheelchair," it said.

"It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner," a release from the university said.

It was designed and developed by the the institute's TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2), headed by Prof Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Since 2015, with CSR support from TTK Prestige, the Centre was involved in research related to human movement, influence of orthotic and prosthetic devices on human movement, and the design and development of mechanisms, products and assistive devices for people with impairments, it said.

"Thanks to a novel mass-manufacturable mechanical design.... and Phoenix's manufacturing capabilities, Arise will be made available at affordable prices," it said.

The initiative also had the support of Wellcome, an UK-based foundation, the release said.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: UNI Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Country's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair rolled out URL: http://www.uniindia.com/photoes/307163.html

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: UNI Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M's Made in India's first Standing Wheel Chair launched URL: http://www.uniindia.com/iit-m-s-made-in-india-s-first-standing-wheel-chair- launched/south/news/1780308.html

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Republic Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras Launches Indigenously Designed 'Arise' Standing Wheelchair URL: https://www.republicworld.com/india-news/general-news/iit-madras-launches- indigenously-designed-arise-standing-wheelchair.html

IIT Madras Launches Indigenously Designed 'Arise' Standing Wheelchair

IIT Madras has launched the country's "first indigenously" designed standing wheelchair, which will enable a person to shift from sitting to standing position

The Indian Institute of Technology-Madras on Tuesday launched the country's "first indigenously" designed standing wheelchair, which will enable a differently - abled person to shift from sitting to standing position. Named 'Arise', the standing wheelchair was launched in the presence of Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot at the institute.

IIT Madras, "in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India's first indigenously-designed standing wheelchair," it said. "It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner," a release from the university said.

Designed and developed by institute's TTK Center for R2D2 It was designed and developed by the institute's TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2), headed by Prof Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Since 2015, with CSR support from TTK Prestige, the Centre was involved in research related to human movement, the influence of orthotic and prosthetic devices on human movement, and the design and development of mechanisms, products and assistive devices for people with impairments, it said.

'Arise will be made available at affordable prices' "Thanks to a novel mass-manufacturable mechanical design.... and Phoenix's manufacturing capabilities Arise will be made available at affordable prices," it said. Gehlot lauded IIT Madras for its initiative, and also recalled the Narendra Modi government's various welfare measures for the 'divyang,' including setting up five national-level sophisticated sports centres for differently - abled sportspersons in different parts of the country. According to Sashi Kumar, Managing Director, Phoenix Medical Systems, testing partners for 'Arise' included NGOs, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, individual users and clinicians who provided inputs. The initiative also had the support of Wellcome, an UK-based foundation, the release said.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Daily World Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs URL: http://dailyworld.in/iit-madras-launches-standing-wheelchairs/

IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India’s first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair,’ the IITM said.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Can India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs URL: http://www.canindia.com/iit-madras-launches-standing-wheelchairs/

IIT Madras launches standing wheelchairs

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India’s first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair,’ the IITM said.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Campus Varta Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasa Headline: IIT Madras has launched standing wheelchair for disabled today at IIT Madras Research Park. URL: https://www.campusvarta.com/campus-updates/iit-madras-has-launched- standing-wheelchair-for-disabled-today-at-iit-madras-research-park/

IIT Madras has launched standing wheelchair for disabled today at IIT Madras Research Park.

The standing wheelchair named ‘Arise’ is designed by TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research & Device Development, R2D2. The purpose of this wheelchair is that it will help a person in a wheelchair to stand without any help. “It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner,” a release from the university said.

“Thanks to a novel mass-manufacturable mechanical design…. and Phoenix’s manufacturing capabilities, Arise will be made available at affordable prices,” it said.

Gehlot lauded IIT, Madras for its initiative, and also recalled the Narendra Modi government’s various welfare measures for the ‘divyang,’ including setting up five national-level sophisticated sports centres for differently abled sportspersons in different parts of the country.

According to Sashi Kumar, Managing Director, Phoenix Medical Systems, testing partners for ‘Arise’ included NGOs, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, individual users and clinicians who provided inputs. The initiative also had the support of Wellcome, an UK-based foundation, the release said.

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: News Nation Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: R2D2 lab's Wheel Chair launch URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-ok5wDvyr8

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: ANI News Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: R2D2 lab's Wheel Chair launch URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWa680FzTNQ&feature=youtu.be

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Puthiya Thalaimurai Edition: Electronic Journalist: Raj Kumar Professor: Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof AK Mishra, Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: மாற்쟁த்鎿றனாளிகள் நின்றவாறற பயணிக்埁ம் ퟀல் றேர்: சேன்னன ஐஐ羿 மாணவர்கள் வ羿வனமப்ꯁ (Differently abled person can stand during this wheelchair: IIT Madras invention) URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4kpahsM3YE&feature=youtu.be

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Andhra Jyothi Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 11 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras pupils showcase social media hate speech detection project

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Statesman Edition: Delhi / Kolkata Page No: 14 Journalist: NA Student: Mr. Wazeem Nishad Headline: Making graphene

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Indus Dictum Edition: Online Journalist: Susheela Srinivas Professor: Prof. Basudev Roy Headline: Insights into thermal mechanisms of droplet-type cooling for microchips URL: https://indusdictum.com/2019/11/05/insights-into-thermal-mechanisms-droplet- type-cooling-microchips/

Insights into thermal mechanisms of droplet-type cooling for microchips icro cooling is an emerging line of research in heat dissipation in miniaturised electronic chips. In this method, a tiny bead of the coolant is dropped on to the microchip that is heating up, which is carried away by evaporation of the droplet. Although the process appears obvious, the heat transfer mechanism is still being deciphered.

A team of Indian researchers from IIT-Madras and IIT-Roorkee, along with scientists from the Indian Institute of Scientific Education and Research, (IISER), Trivandrum, have now provided preliminary insights that water droplets transport heat absorbed from microchip surfaces by generating nano-range hydrothermal waves.

This research adds a crucial step to study nanoscale hydrothermal waves by using a technique known as optical trapping. The study opens avenues for engineering these nano waves by other materials which will enhance heat dissipation in integrated electronic chips.

“Hydrothermal waves are thermally induced travelling waves occurring on a gas-ﬂuid interface and are particularly relevant to the cases of heat and mass transfer in the microscopic domain, like in the cooling of miniature chips. They directly inﬂuence the evaporation rate of the liquid coolant,” explained Dr Basudev Roy, team lead and assistant professor at IIT-Madras, while speaking to India Science Wire.

With high-performance electronic devices rapidly shrinking in size, the power density in them shoots up and, hence, the heat dissipation in them assumes importance. Liquid coolants are many times more efficient than traditional air cooling methods, and simple water droplet cooling is increasingly being researched.

The generated heat from the device surface is transferred to the droplet by convection and transforms it into a sessile droplet – a suspended particle – before evaporation. This sessile droplet has two interfaces – first, at the device surface where it absorbs the dissipated heat, and second, a cooler top surface at the liquid-gas interface before evaporation.

During the process of evaporative cooling, hot molecules with higher kinetic energy than average leave the water droplet and vaporise. Whatever is left behind is on an average cooler because the more heated molecules are removed. Existing studies have found that there is a temperature gradient in the sessile droplet between these two interfaces which is caused by the evaporation at the top interface. As the evaporation progresses, there is a generation of hydrothermal waves at sub- micron levels.

Infra-red cameras have helped in detecting hydrothermal waveforms in the range of millimetres in volatile coolants such as ethanol. However, in sessile water droplets, the temperature difference is only one degree, and no such waves could be seen, indicating a possibility of non-occurrence of thermal waves in them.

Contrary to this belief, the present research has shown that the low-temperature gradient of water droplets also generate hydrothermal waves, but they are in the nanoscale range. Due to the extremely low amplitude of these waveforms, they escape detection by the micron level infra-red camera.

To demonstrate their findings, the team employed polymer microparticles as tracers to observe the waveforms. In their experiment, they introduced two tracer particles into the top interface of the sessile water droplet with the help of ‘optical tweezers.’ ‘ Optical tweezers ’ is a technique devised by Nobel laureate Dr Arthur Ashkin, wherein a focused laser beam is used to hold or trap a tiny particle in three-dimensional space without any influence of gravity.

They then observed the vertical oscillations of the particles between the two interfaces of the droplet and found that the generated waves had amplitudes less than 500 nanometres and propagated parallel to the edge of the droplet.

“This effect only appears late in the process of evaporation from a water droplet when the thickness of the water layer is less than 50 micrometres, and the convection currents become very strong. This has strong implications for heat dissipation as the formation of nano waves happen when the evaporation rate is the highest,” clarified Dr Roy.

With these results in hand, the team now looks to take the research forward by experimenting with other materials to enhance the nano waves, to accelerate cooling.

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: India Today Edition: Online Journalist: Ms. Kajari Goswami Headline: CFI 2019: IIT Madras showcase 4 globally acclaimed innovations URL: https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/news/story/cfi-2019-iit-madras- showcase-4-globally-acclaimed-innovations-1615950-2019-11-05

CFI 2019: IIT Madras showcase 4 globally acclaimed innovations

The students of IIT Madras conducted their annual Centre for Innovation open house for the general public at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras on November 2, 2019, Saturday. The students showcased over 50 projects at the Centre for Innovation (CFI).

The CFI open house is conducted every year to bring out the recent work and achievements of student innovators. This exhibition also provides an opportunity for the students to demonstrate their products on a large scale, which also leads to implementation.

Internationally acclaimed projects by IIT-M students

Some of the projects displayed and demonstrated in the CFI like Formula cars and Drones, next-generation technologies like Hyperloop, have also won various international acclaims.

One of the teams to demonstrate their project at CFI was Avishkar Hyperloop. It is the only team from Asia to be among the top 22 teams, shortlisted from over 1600 entries worldwide, to qualify for the finals of 2019 Hyperloop Pod Competition organised by Spacex.

Raftar Formula Racing car was also among the CFI teams. It was the only Indian team to qualify for Formula Student Germany 2018.

About the Centre for Innovation

The Centre for Incubation of CRI is a complete student-run platform. The vision to set up CFI was to encourage engineers to apply knowledge from their academic pursuit to innovate and propose solutions to real-world problems.

Since the establishment of CFI in 2016, many startup branches have come out in the global market. This year four teams have represented IIT-Madras and the country in international competitions including

Talking about the impact of CFI, Student Executive head, CFI, IIT Madras said, Multiple innovations from the CFI community have been accepted and lauded by government agencies and private industries/businesses for having tremendous potential to improve lives. The CFI consists of ten clubs ad four competition teams with 600 students involved in activities over the year.

Some of the projects demonstrated this year at the CFI are:

Autonomous Driving in a Simulated Environment

Hate Speech Detection

Text-to Braille converter

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Hindustan Times Edition: Mumbai Page No: 9 Journalist: Jessica Joshi Headline: Do you have a Masters in mind?

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: DD Podhigai Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: R2D2 lab's Wheel Chair launch URL to download: https://we.tl/t-jRJyMZea1I

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: News 18 Tamil Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: R2D2 lab's Wheel Chair launch URL to download: https://we.tl/t-jRJyMZea1I

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Thanthi TV Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: R2D2 lab's Wheel Chair launch URL to download: https://we.tl/t-jRJyMZea1I

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Puthiya Thalaimurai Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: R2D2 lab's Wheel Chair launch URL to download: https://we.tl/t-jRJyMZea1I

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: NDTV Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Country's First Indigenously Designed Standing Wheelchair Launched URL: https://www.ndtv.com/education/countrys-first-indigenously-designed-standing- wheelchair-launched-2128092

Country's First Indigenously Designed Standing Wheelchair Launched

Premier technical varsity, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, on Tuesday launched the country's "first indigenously" designed standing wheelchair, which will enable a differently abled person shift from sitting to standing position. Named ''Arise'', the standing wheelchair was launched in the presence of Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot at the institute here.

IIT Madras "in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India's first indigenously-designed standing wheelchair," it said.

It was designed and developed by the the institute's TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2), headed by Professor Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

"Thanks to a novel mass-manufacturable mechanical design.... and Phoenix's manufacturing capabilities, Arise will be made available at affordable prices," it said.

Mr Gehlot lauded IIT Madras for its initiative, and also recalled the Narendra Modi government's various welfare measures for the ''divyang,'' including setting up five national-level sophisticated sports centres for differently abled sportspersons in different parts of the country.

According to Sashi Kumar, Managing Director, Phoenix Medical Systems, testing partners for ''Arise'' included NGOs, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, individual users and clinicians who provided inputs.

The initiative also had the support of Wellcome, an UK-based foundation, the release said.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Watch | IIT Madras launches India's first standing wheelchair URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/watch-iit-madras-launches-indias- first-standing-wheelchair/article29896622.ece

IIT Madras launches India's first standing wheelchair

A ‘standing wheelchair’ called ‘Arise’, was developed at the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras four months ago.

Arise was formally launched by Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, at IIT-Madras Research Park on Tuesday.

The wheel chair, indigenously-designed at IIT-M in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems, with the support of the UK-based Wellcome Trust, is priced at about ₹15,000. Using Arise, a person with a disability can shift from a standing position to a sitting position and vice versa, independently or with assistance.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Print Edition: Digital Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras develops an affordable standing wheelchair URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lu7eW3DnXA0

IIT-Madras develops an affordable standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: India Today Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches India's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair URL: https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/news/story/iit-madras-launches-india- s-first-indigenously-designed-standing-wheelchair-1616233-2019-11-06

IIT Madras launches India's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair

In a laudable initiative, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has launched the country's 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair- 'Arise' for assisting the specially-abled person in day to day activities. These customised wheelchairs enable a differently-abled person to shift from sitting to standing position and vice-versa independently.

The wheelchair is customized to shift from sitting to the standing position Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot was also present at the launch of 'Arise'.

Lauding the efforts of IIT Madras, Gehlot said, "IIT Madras has done a wonderful job, I have never seen such a standing wheelchair even in a foreign country."

He also stated that his ministry will be extended the necessary help if required to extend the benefits of this initiative to more and more specially-abled citizens.

"I would like my ministry to collaborate with IIT Madras to provide this wheelchair to 'Divyangs' all over the country. If the need arises my ministry would also help financially to this initiative", Gehlot said.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Eenadu Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Headline: Standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Namaste Telangana Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-Madras develops affordable standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Hans India Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-Madras develops affordable standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: News Today Edition: Chennai Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Statesman Edition: Delhi / Kolkata Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: A standing wheelchair from IITM for the first time in India

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Makkal Kural Edition: Chennai Page No: 4 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-Madras develops affordable standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Malai Murus Edition: Chennai

Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-Madras develops affordable standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Your Story Edition: Online Journalist: Athirupa Geetha Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras develops affordable standing wheelchair to enable persons with disabilities URL: https://yourstory.com/socialstory/2019/11/iit-madras-affordable-standing- wheelchair-arise

IIT-Madras develops affordable standing wheelchair to enable persons with disabilities

Reports say India is home to 40 to 80 million people with disabilities (PwDs), who, for the most part, are hugely disadvantaged in terms of social interactions and employment opportunities. While large swathes of the country still lack basic infrastructure to support PwDs, a few initiatives have come forth in recent years to show concern and build a friendly ecosystem. IIT-Madras recently showcased India’s first indigenously-built standing wheelchair, christened ‘Arise’. The premier technological institute has built the device in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems, a leading manufacturer of assistive devices and equipment. The standing wheelchair (left), and Thaawarchand Gehlot (extreme left),and Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan (right). Also Read Two accidents, a wheelchair and a National award from APJ Abdul Kalam:

The standing wheelchair enables a differently-abled person to shift from a sitting to standing position, and vice-versa, independently and in a controlled manner. At IIT- Madras, the design and development of the wheelchair were taken up by the TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2). The entire project was headed by Professor Sujatha Srinivasan of the institute's Department of Mechanical Engineering. The standing wheelchair was designed in three stages. In the first stage, a hand-operated, linkage-based mechanism was developed to achieve the standing functionality. A proof-of-concept prototype was then used to validate the functioning of the standing mechanism. The actuating of the wheelchair from the sitting to the standing position and vice-versa would depend on the user leveraging the power of their arms. With an optimal one-time fitting, the effort required would be no more than that required to propel the wheelchair, the team said.

A gas spring is a key element of the design to reduce the effort expended by the user. An early prototype was tested by able-bodied persons, said Sujatha, adding, “We have learned a lot during our Arise development journey – the importance of flexible funding focused on impact, the need for a like-minded industry partner, and the merit in involving users and the rehabilitation community in the development. We are applying these learnings to our other projects. A one-time custom-fitting of Arise is necessary to provide maximum benefit to the user. To maximise the impact of our devices, R2D2 will work to create awareness about their suitability, availability, and necessary fitting and training.”

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Scroll.in Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Watch: India’s first standing wheelchair has been launched, by IIT Madras URL: https://scroll.in/video/942887/watch-indias-first-standing-wheelchair-has-been- launched-by-iit-madras

India’s first standing wheelchair has been launched, by IIT Madras

A “standing wheelchair” (above) called Arise, developed at the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, was formally launched on Tuesday, November 5. The standing wheelchair, while expanding the range of movement for disabled individuals, serves the important purpose of minimising health risks for wheelchair-ridden patients. The health risks associated with extended periods of sitting (and not just for wheelchair users) include cancer, cardiovascular disease and obesity.

The launch was webcast live on R2D2’s website, and featured testing and detailing of the invention. According to reports, the wheelchair was designed in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems and will cost around Rs 15,000.

Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, was also present at the launch, and stated that the wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development funds of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility funds.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Zee Business Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Wow! IIT Madras launches India's first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair' for differently-abled URL: https://www.zeebiz.com/india/news-wow-iit-madras-launches-indias-first- indigenously-designed-standing-wheelchair-for-differently-abled-113822

Wow! IIT Madras launches India's first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair' for differently-abled

The Indian Institute of Technology, Madras has launched India’s first indigenously- designed ‘Standing Wheelchair.’ The wheelchair has been launched in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems and enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

"In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but Have not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world. I am very happy and impressed and I congratulate IIT Madras and its partners for coming up with such a nice wheelchair, which is multipurpose and beneficial for health also, besides being cost- effective," said Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.

The users of conventional wheelchairs face a lot of difficulties as being in a seated position for long durations can lead to secondary health problems such as poor blood circulation and pressure sores. IIT Madras believes that these problems could be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs. Users can, by themselves, use standing wheelchairs to arise from the seated position to a standing position and vice versa.

"The TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development, created with a generous endowment from our Distinguished Alumnus Mr. T. T Jagannathan, has become the research and innovation hub for several affordable assistive technologies, which would otherwise never have been worked upon and delivered. The standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ is one such sterling example. The Centre and Phoenix Medical Systems are to be congratulated for their persistent efforts to make the device user-friendly and affordable," Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras, said said.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Digital Journalist: NA Headline: India’s first standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ launched by IIT Madras URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/news/indias-first-standing-wheelchair- arise-launched-by-iit-madras/videoshow/71933089.cms

India’s first standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ launched by IIT Madras

India's one of the top colleges, IIT Madras launched the first indigenously designed standing wheelchair 'Arise'. The state-of-the-art wheelchair can enable specially-abled people to shift from sitting to a standing position using a simple lever. It was launched in presence of Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thawarchand Gehlot. Standing wheelchairs will hit the market soon at an affordable price.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: BBG Life Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras Launches Unique Wheelchair at Affordable Price | Best Brothers Group of Companies URL: https://bbg.life/index.php/2019/11/06/iit-madras-launches-unique-wheelchair-at- affordable-price-best-brothers-group-of-companies/

IIT Madras Launches Unique Wheelchair at Affordable Price | Best Brothers Group of Companies in Accessibility, Accessibility in India, Accessibility Innovation, Affordable, Asia-Pacific, Assistive Technology, Built Environment, CRPD, DiDRR, Disabilities, DRR, Global Agenda, ICT, IIT, Indian Institute of Technology, launches, Madras, News, Persons with Disabilities, Price, Standing Wheelchair, Tourism, Transportation, TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development, Unique, Universal Design, Web accessibility, wheelchair, Wheelchair Accessibility A new affordable ‘standing wheelchair’ that enables persons with disabilities to shift between standing and sitting positions independently, has been indigenously designed by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems. It was launched here on Tuesday.

Wheelchair users usually require assistance to stand, after being seated in their wheelchairs.

While standing wheelchairs are already available in the country, they are mostly imported and are highly expensive. Called ‘Arise,’ this standing wheelchair can be bought at Rs 15,000, said V Sashi Kumar, the managing director of Phoenix Medical Systems told Express, speaking at the sidelines of the launch.

Further, Arise comes in four sizes: small, medium, large and extra-large, and can be customised to suit users’ body type by making simple adjustments, he said.

The wheelchair was launched in the presence of Union Minister Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, , students, staff and faculty of IIT Madras besides other stakeholders in the project. “In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but Have not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world. I am very happy and impressed and I congratulate IIT Madras and its partners for coming up with such a nice wheelchair, which is multipurpose and beneficial for health also, besides being cost-effective,” said Gehlot.

It was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras, headed by Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

It is not widely known that users of conventional wheelchairs face a host of difficulties. Being in a seated position long periods can lead to secondary health problems such as poor blood circulation and pressure sores. However, users require considerable effort, aids and assistance to attain a standing position from their wheelchairs. Thus, they do not adopt the standing position as frequently as they need to or wish to. Users can, by themselves, use standing wheelchairs to arise from the seated position to a standing position and vice versa.

Users will not have mobility in the standing position. “The feature was not added as we kept safety as a priority. If a user tried to stand and move on a slope, it may lead to instability,” said Sujatha Srinivasan, speaking to Express at the sidelines of the launch. She added that Arise can be most efficiently used by people who have spinal cord injuries.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/education/iit-madras-launches-countrys-first- standing-wheelchair-arise-iitm-ac-in-6106197/

IIT-Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair

Union Minister Gehlot lauded IIT-Madras for its initiative, and also recalled the Narendra Modi government's various welfare measures for the 'divyang'

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT-Madras) has launched the country’s first indigenously designed standing wheelchair. The project, in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems, enables a differently - abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

The wheelchair ‘Arise’ was launched in the presence of Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot at the institute.

Union Minister Gehlot lauded IIT-Madras for its initiative, and also recalled the Narendra Modi government’s various welfare measures for the ‘divyang’, including setting up five national-level sophisticated sports centres for differently - abled sportspersons in different parts of the country.

The device was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2). “Called Arise, the standing wheelchair was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras headed by Sujatha Srinivisan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras,” read the official release.

The project also got support from foreign countries like the United Kingdom. “The commercialisation of the Standing Wheelchair technology was made possible through support from Wellcome, UK, through an ‘Affordable Healthcare in India’ Award, which brought together the research and manufacturing partners,” the release mentioned.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Dinamani Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: நின்றப羿றய சேல்லக்埂羿றய ேக்கர நாற்கா쮿: சேன்னன ஐஐ羿뾿ன் ோதனன கண்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁ (IIT-Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair) URL: https://www.dinamani.com/tamilnadu/2019/nov/06/new-wheelchair-adventure- innovation-at-iit-madras-3272520.html

நின்றப羿றய சேல்லக்埂羿றய ேக்கர நாற்கா쮿: சேன்னன ஐஐ羿뾿ன் ோதனன கண்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁ (IIT-Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair

இந்鎿யாힿன் 믁தலாவ鏁 உள்நாட்羿லலலய வ羿வமைக்கப்பட்ட ‘நின்றப羿லய செல்லக்埂羿ய ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿’மய சென்மன ஐஐ羿 சவளி뾿ட்翁ள்ள鏁.

இந்鎿ய சதா펿ல்ꏁட்பக் கழகைான சென்மன ஐஐ羿, ꯀனிக்ஸ் ை쏁த்鏁வ ொதனங்கள் தயாரிப்ꯁ நி쟁வனத்鏁டன் இமைந்鏁, இந்鎿யாힿன் 믁தலாவ鏁 உள்நாட்羿லலலய வ羿வமைக்கப்பட்ட ‘நின்றப羿லய செல்லக்埂羿ய ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿’-மய சவளி뾿ட்翁ள்ள鏁. அைர்ந்த நிமல뾿ல் இ쏁ந்鏁, நின்ற நிமல뾿ல் பயைை் செய்யக்埂羿ய ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿 லதமவப்ப翁ை் ைாற்쟁த் 鎿றனாளிகள், 毁தந்鎿ரைாகퟁை், ꮿறர鏁 உதힿ뾿ன்잿 செல்வதற்埁 இந்த ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿 வமக செய்뿁ை்.

இந்த ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿, ைத்鎿ய ெ믂க நீ鎿 ைற்쟁ை் அ鎿காரைளித்தல் 鏁மற அமைெ்ெர் தாவர்ெந்த் சகலாட் ைற்쟁ை் சென்மன ஐஐ羿-뾿ன் ஆராய்ெ்殿யாளர்கள், ைாைவர்கள் , ஊ펿யர்கள், லபரா殿ரியர்கள் 믁ன்னிமல뾿ல், சென்மன ஐஐ羿 ஆராய்ெ்殿ப் ꯂங்காힿல் சவளி뾿டப்பட்ட鏁.

‘அமரஸ் ’ (Arise) என்쟁 சபயரிடப்பட்翁ள்ள இந்த நퟀன ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿, சென்மன ஐஐ羿-뾿ன் இயந்鎿ர சபா잿뾿யல் 鏁மற லபரா殿ரியர் 毁ஜாதா ஸ்ரீனிவாென் தமலமை뾿லான 埁폁ힿனரால், ஐஐ羿뾿ல் உள்ள ை쟁வாழ்ퟁ ஆராய்ெ்殿 ைற்쟁ை் க쏁ힿகள் தயாரிப்ꯁக்கான 羿羿லக மையத்தால் வ羿வமைத்鏁 தயாரிக்கப்பட்翁ள்ள鏁. 羿羿லக ꮿசரஸ்翀ஜ் நி쟁வனத்鎿ன் ெ믂க சபா쟁ப்ꯁைர்ퟁ 鎿ட்ட உதힿ뿁டன் , கடந்த 2015 ஆை் ஆை்翁 믁தல் இதற்கான ஆராய்ெ்殿 லைற்சகாள்ளப்பட்翁, இந்த ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿 வ羿வமைக்கப்பட்翁ள்ள鏁.

இங்垿லாந்மதெ் லெர்ந்த சவல்கை் அறக்கட்டமள ஒத்鏁மழப்ꯁடன் , ‘இந்鎿யாힿல் 埁மறந்த செலힿல் ை쏁த்鏁வ லெமவ’ என்ற 鎿ட்டத்鎿ன்믂லை், நின்றப羿லய செல்லக்埂羿ய இந்த ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿 தயாரிப்ꯁக்கான சதா펿ல்ꏁட்பை், வைிகையைாக்கப்பட்翁ள்ள鏁. இமதய翁த்鏁, ꯀனிக்ஸ் ை쏁த்鏁வக் க쏁ힿகள் தயாரிப்ꯁ நி쟁வனை், 埁மறந்த ힿமல뾿ல் இந்த ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿மய தயாரித்鏁 ힿற்பமன செய்யퟁள்ள鏁.

நிகழ்ெ்殿뾿ல் லப殿ய ைத்鎿ய ெ믂க நீ鎿 ைற்쟁ை் அ鎿காரைளித்தல் 鏁மற அமைெ்ெர் தாவர்ெந்த் சகலாட், கடந்த ஐந்தாை்翁களில் இந்鎿யாힿ쯁ை், சவளிநா翁களி쯁ை் கை்翁ꮿ羿க்கப்பட்ட பல்லவ쟁 நퟀன சதா펿ல்ꏁட்பங்களில், தாை் பார்த்த வமக뾿ல் இ鏁லபான்ற நின்றப羿லய செல்லக்埂羿ய ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿மய உல垿ல் லவ쟁 எங்埁ை் பார்க்கힿல்மல என்றார். இ鏁லபான்ற 殿றந்த ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿மய உ쏁வாக்垿ய鏁 뮿埁ந்த ை垿ழ்ெ்殿 அளிப்பதாக 埁잿ப்ꮿட்ட அமைெ்ெர், இதமன உ쏁வாக்垿ய சென்மன ஐஐ羿 ைற்쟁ை் அதன் பங்埁தாரர்கமள பாராட்翁வதாக 埂잿னார். இந்த ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿 埁மறந்த செலힿல் 垿மடக்கக்埂羿ய鏁 என்பலதா翁, ை쏁த்鏁வ ரீ鎿யாகퟁை், பன்믁க பலன் அளிக்கக்埂羿ய鏁 என்쟁 அவர் 埁잿ப்ꮿட்டார்.

சென்மன ஐஐ羿-뾿ல் உள்ள இந்த ஆராய்ெ்殿 மையத்鎿ன் பைிகள் தை்மை சவ埁வாக கவர்ந்鏁ள்ளதாக 埂잿ய தாவர்ெந்த் சகலாட், எ鎿ர்காலத்鎿ல் இ鏁லபான்ற பைிகளில் ஒத்鏁மழக்க ힿ쏁ை்ꯁவதாகퟁை் சதரிힿத்தார். ைத்鎿ய ெ믂க நீ鎿த்鏁மற, ெட்டைன்ற உ쟁ப்ꮿனர்கள் சதா埁鎿 லைை்பாட்翁 நி鎿 ைற்쟁ை் சப쏁நி쟁வனங்களின் ெ믂க சபா쟁ப்ꯁைர்ퟁ 鎿ட்ட நி鎿뿁தힿ뿁டன் , நின்றப羿லய செல்லக்埂羿ய இந்த ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿மய, லதமவப்ப翁லவா쏁க்埁 வழங்க நடவ羿க்மக எ翁க்கப்ப翁ை் என்쟁ை் உ쟁鎿யளித்தார்.

தற்லபா鏁 பயன்பாட்羿ல் உள்ள அைர்ந்தப羿 செல்லக்埂羿ய ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿뾿ல் நீை்டலநரை் பயைித்தால், ரத்த ஓட்ட 埁மறபா翁, அ폁த்தத்தால் ஏற்ப翁ை் ꯁை் உள்ளிட்ட பல்லவ쟁 உடல்நலக்埁மறபா翁கள் ஏற்ப翁வமத뿁ை் அவர் 毁ட்羿க்காட்羿னார். அத்தமகய 殿ரைங்களி쮿쏁ந்鏁 ힿ翁பட, இந்த ꯁ鎿ய ெக்கர நாற்கா쮿 பயꟁள்ளதாக இ쏁க்埁ை் என்쟁ை் அமைெ்ெர் 埁잿ப்ꮿட்டார்.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Patrika.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: இந்鎿யாힿல் 믁தன்믁னற: நின்றப羿뿁ம் சேல்쯁ம் வனக뾿லான ேக்கர நாற்கா쮿! சேன்னன ஐஐ羿 ோதனன (IIT-Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair) URL: https://www.patrikai.com/first-time-in-india-iit-madras-develops-affordable- standing-wheelchair/

இந்鎿யாힿல் 믁தன்믁னற: நின்றப羿뿁ம் சேல்쯁ம் வனக뾿லான ேக்கர நாற்கா쮿! சேன்னன ஐஐ羿 ோதனன

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Samayam.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: നട്ടെല്ല് തകര്‍ന്ന് ജീവിതം വീല്‍ട്ടെയറിലായവര്‍ന്ക് ഒരു സന്താഷ വാര്‍ന്ത; നില്‍കാന്‍ സഹായികുന വീല്‍ട്ടെയര്‍ന് വരുനു URL: https://malayalam.samayam.com/latest-news/india-news/iit-madras-made- wheelchair-which-help-people-with-spinal-injury-to-stand/articleshow/71934505.cms

നട്ടെല്ല് തകര്‍ന്ന് ജീവിതം വീല്‍ട്ടെയറിലായവര്‍ന്ക് ഒരു സന്താഷ വാര്‍ന്ത; നില്‍കാന്‍ സഹായികുന വീല്‍ട്ടെയര്‍ന് വരുനു

ചെന്നൈ: നചെല്ലിന് പരിക്കേറ്റ് ജീവിതം വീല്‍ച്ചെയറിലായവര്‍കേകം ഇനി എഴകക്കൈറ്റ് നില്‍ച്ോം. ഒരിേലകം എഴകക്കൈറ്റ് നില്‍ച്ോക്കനാ നടോക്കനാ കഴിയാചത ജീവിതകാലം മകഴകവന്‍ ഇരകൈകം കിടൈകം തീര്‍കക്കേണ്ടി വരകചമൈ നിരാശയില്‍ച് കഴിയകൈ പാരാപ്ലീജിയ ക്കരാഗികള്‍ക്േ് പ്പതീക്ഷ നല്‍ച്കകൈ വാര്‍കതയാണ് മപ്രാസ് ഐഐടിയില്‍ച് നിൈ് വരകൈത്.

മപ്രാസ് ഐഐടി രൂപകല്‍ച്പന ചെയ്‍ത പ്പക്കതേക തരം വീല്‍ച്ചെയറാണ് നചെല്ലിന് പരിക്കേറ്റവര്‍കേ് ആശക്കയകകൈത്. നിയപ്രിതമായ രീതിയില്‍ച് രണ്ടകകാലില്‍ച് എഴകക്കൈറ്റ് നില്‍ച്ോന്‍ സഹായിേകൈതാണ് ഈ വീല്‍ച്ചെയര്‍ക. എന്നറസ് എൈാണ് ഈ വീല്‍ച്ചെയറിന് ക്കപരിെിരിേകൈത്.

സാധാരണ വീല്‍ച്ചെയറില്‍ച് ക്കരാഗികള്‍ക്േ് ഒരകപാട് ബകദ്ധിമകെകകള്‍ക് ക്കനരിടകൈകണ്ട്. രീര്‍കഘക്കനരം ഇരിേകൈത് ഒക്കെചറ ആക്കരാഗേ പ്പശ്‍നങ്ങള്‍ക്േകം കാരണമാകകൈകണ്ട്. ഇചതാചേ പരിഗണിൊണ് പകതിയ വീല്‍ച്ചെയര്‍ക രൂപകല്‍ച്പന ചെയ്‍തിരിേകൈത്.

''കാല്‍ച്മകെകകളില്‍ച് നിയപ്രണം ഇല്ലാതതിനാലാണ് പാരാപ്ലീജിയ ക്കരാഗികള്‍ക്േ് എഴകക്കൈറ്റ് നില്‍ച്ോന്‍ കഴിയാതത്. ഞങ്ങളകചട വീല്‍ച്ചെയര്‍ക കാല്‍ച്മകെകകള്‍ക്േകം ശരീരതിചെ മകകള്‍ക് ഭാഗതിനകം താങ്ങ് ചകാടകത് ആചള നില്‍ച്ോന്‍ സഹായിേകം. വീല്‍ച്ചെയര്‍ക ഉപക്കയാഗിേകൈവര്‍കേ് സവയം ഇതിചെ പ്പവര്‍കതനം നിയപ്രിോനാകകചമൈതാണ് മചറ്റാരക പ്പക്കതേകത.''- ഐഐടി മപ്രാസിചല ചമോനിേല്‍ച് ഡിപ്പാര്‍കെ്ചമെിചല ചപ്പാഫസര്‍ക സകജാത പ്ശീനിവാസന്‍ പറഞ്ഞക.

നചെല്ലിന് പരിക്കേറ്റവര്‍കേകം മറ്റക ക്കരാഗങ്ങള്‍ക് കാരണം ശരീരം തളര്‍കൈവര്‍കേകം ഇത് എന്നറസ് ഉപക്കയാഗചപ്പടകം. വീല്‍ച്ചെയറിചെ രണ്ട് ലിവറകകളകം വലിെ് ഫകട്ചറസ്റ്റില്‍ച് ഉയര്‍കൈ് നില്‍ച്ോനാവകം. ഒെകം പ്പയാസമില്ലാചത എഴകൈറ്റ് നില്‍ച്ോന്‍ സഹായിേകൈതിനായി ഗാസ് സ്‍പ്പിങ്ങ് ഘടിപ്പിെിെകചണ്ടൈ് സകജാത പ്ശീനിവാസന്‍ പറഞ്ഞക.

വേതേസ്‍ത ഭാരതിലകള്ളവര്‍കോയി നാല് വലിപ്പതിലകള്ള വീല്‍ച്ചെയറകകളാണ് ഉണ്ടാേകൈത്. 100 കിക്കലാപ്ഗാം വചര ഭാരമകള്ളവര്‍കേ് ഉപക്കയാഗിോവകൈ വീല്‍ച്ചെയറകകളാണ് ഉണ്ടാേകൈത്. ഉപക്കയാഗിേകൈയാളകചട ആവശേതിന് അനകസരിെ് വീല്‍ച്ചെയറിചെ സൗകരേങ്ങളില്‍ച് മാറ്റം വരകതാനകമാകകം.

ഐഐടി മപ്രാസിചെ വീല്‍ച്ചെയര്‍ക ഉപക്കയാഗിെ അക്കശാക് കകമാര്‍ക എൈ 36കാരന്‍ പറയകൈത് ഇത് തചെ ജീവിതതില്‍ച് വലിയ മാറ്റങ്ങളാണ് ചകാണ്ടകവൈചതൈാണ്. നചെല്ലിന് പരിക്കേറ്റ് കിടപ്പിലായ അക്കശാക് കകമാര്‍ക നാല് മാസമാണ് വീല്‍ച്ചെയര്‍ക ഉപക്കയാഗിെത്.

''ഞാന്‍ എഴകക്കൈറ്റ് നില്‍ച്േകൈത് കാണകക്കപാള്‍ക് രണ്ടകവയസ്സകള്ള മകളകചട മകഖതകണ്ടാകകൈ പകഞ്ചിരിയാണ് എനിേ് കിെിയ ഏറ്റവകം വലിയ സക്കരാഷം. അക്കശാക് കകമാര്‍ക പറയകൈക. എഴകക്കൈറ്റ് നിൈ് എനിേ് മകചള എടകോന്‍ കഴിയകൈക. മകചനാപ്പം പ്കിേറ്റ് കളിേകക്കപാള്‍ക് പചരറിഞ്ഞ് ചകാടകോനാവകൈക. മാപ്തമല്ല, പിരിമകറകേവകം ക്കവരനയകം കകറവകണ്ട്. ഇക്കപ്പാള്‍ക് എനിേ് കൂടകതല്‍ച് ആത്മവിശവാസമകണ്ട്.'' - അക്കശാക് കകമാര്‍ക പറയകൈക.

ക്കകപ്ര സാമൂഹികനീതി വകകപ്പ് മപ്രി താവര്‍കെര് ചഗഹ്ക്കലാൊണ് വീല്‍ച്ചെയറിചെ ഉര്ഘാടനം നിര്‍കവഹിെത്. ഐഐടി മപ്രാസകമായി ക്കെര്‍കൈ് വീല്‍ച്ചെയറകകള്‍ക് ആവശേോര്‍കേ് എതിേന്‍ സര്‍കോര്‍ക പ്ശമിേകചമൈകം മപ്രി പറഞ്ഞിരകൈക.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: 10TV Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan డ్ 푀졍 案쁍’: 졍్ అక్క ర్లా ..졇푊చ్చు ..呂ర్చు వచ్చుﰂHeadline: ‘ట డ URL: http://www.10tv.in/madras-iit-launches-indias-first-indigenously-developed- standing-wheelchair-18112

డ్ 푀졍 案쁍’: 졍్ అక్క ర్లా ..졇푊చ్చు ..呂ర్చు వచ్చుﰂట డ

頿వ్య 屁ల 呋స మద్రాస్ ఐఐ籀 ఓ అద్భు త롈న 푀ల్ 案쁍 ꁁ త밾쁁 桇స頿. సా鰾రణగా 吾ళ్లు..న葁롁 స쀿గా పꀿ桇యꀿ 頿వ్య 屁లꁁ 푀ల్ 案쁍 졋 కూర్చో ꡆట్టా లన్నా ..졇పాలన్నా ..ఒక쀿ద్쁁ద సయ 桇밾젿. 吾ꁀ ఈ 汈쁍 అ籁వ簿頿吾ద్భ..ꡂ쀿గాి 됿నా 롈న頿. ఎవ쁈遇頿వ్య 屁졁 ఉట్టర్చ వ్쁁 ఈ 푀ల్ 案쁍 졋 కూర్చో వ్లన్నా ..ꡈ吿 졇వ్లన్నా వ్రతట వ్쁁గా ఎవ쀿 సయ 졇క萾 졇వవచ్చో ..కూర్చో వచ్చో . అ籁వ簿 అద్భు త롈న 푀ల్ 案쁍 ꁁ త밾쁁 桇స మగళవ్ర (నవబ쁍 5)ద్రపార됿చ頿 ఇ萿యన్ ఇꀿట ిట్యయ 籍 ఆఫ్ 籆吾ా ల灀 మద్రాస్. 顀ꀿ ꡇ쁁 ‘‍సాా 萿్ 푀ల్ 案쁍’

걀ꀿక్సట 롆萿కల్ ససమ్సా ట సహ吾ర運 됾రత顇శ졋 롊ట롊ా ద్簿సా쀿గా ఈ ‘‍సాా 萿్ 푀ల్ 案쁍’ꁁ త밾쁁 桇స頿. ‘అ쀿స్’ అꀿ ద్రర葍 నేమ్స 運 ఈ 푀ల్ 案쁍 ꁁ త밾쁁 桇స頿. ఈ 案쁍 ꁁ 롆吾ꀿకల్ ఇజꁀ쀿్ 퐿됾గ졋 瀾త ‍ీꀿని వ్సన్ నేతృతవ 졋ꀿ ఐఐ簿ఎమ్స‍졋ꀿ 簿簿కె సట쁍 ఫ쁍 쀿뀿젿籇షన్ 쁀స쁍ో అ葍萿푈స్ 葆వలప‍롆籍 푀ల్ 案쁍‍ꁁ 萿灈న్ 桇స 葆వలప 桇స頿.

ఈ ‘‍సాా 萿్ 푀ల్ 案쁍’ ꁁ కద్రద్ మద్రి తవ్쁍‍చద్ 屆ు籍 ద్రపార됿చా쁁. ఈ సద్రబ గా 屆ు籍 렾ట్టు 葁తూ..తాꁁ చా젾 顇శా졋ు పరయ 簿చానꁀ..吾ꁀ.. ఎకక 萾 ఇత మచ ‍సాా 萿్ 푀ల్ క쁀ో ꀿ చూడ졇ద్ꀿ అన్నా 쁁. 頿వ్య 屁లక ఈ 案쁍 చా젾 రగా ఉప뱋గప葁తద్ꀿ అనట졋 ఎ籁వ簿 స顇హ 졇ద్న్నా 쁁.

ꀿ쁁ꡇద్ల 呋స ద్రప둁తవ ..చటసా భ స둁య ల ꀿ뱋జకవర గ అ됿వృ頿 ి ꀿ鰿, 吾ర్పొ 쁇籍 సా렾瀿క రధ్య త ꀿ鰿 ావ 쀾 ఈ ‍సాా 萿్ 푀ల్‍案쁁ు అ頿చవచో ꀿ ఆయన అ됿ద్రపాయప萾ా 쁁.

ద్ర籆萿షన్ 푀ల్‍案쁍‍లక బద్భ졁గా ఈ ‍సాా 萿్ 푀ల్‍案쁍‍లꁁ ఉప뱋గచడ ావ 쀾 푀ల్ 案రకు ప쀿렿త롈పో밿నవ్쁁 顀ర吾ఘ ల కూర్చో వడ వల ు వ桇ో సమసయ లꁁ తగగ చవచో ꀿ అన్నా. 쁁 కూ쁁ో నే ‍ꡇస్ు ꁁ桇 ꀿలబడట..ꀿలబ萿న ‍ꡇస్ు ꁁ桇頿వ్య 屁졁 సవ తద్రతగా..ఎవ쀿 సయ 졇క萾 ఆ쀿స్ ‍సాా 萿్ 푀ల్ 案쁍 쁂ప頿చబ萿ద్ꀿ అన్నా. 쁁

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: EI Samay Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: India’s first standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ launched by IIT Madras URL: https://eisamay.indiatimes.com/videos/news/indias-first-standing-wheelchair-arise- launched-by-iit-madras/videoshow/71933101.cms

India’s first standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ launched by IIT Madras

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Amar Ujala Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: India’s first standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ launched by IIT Madras URL: https://www.amarujala.com/india-news/iit-madras-made-special-standing- wheelchairs-through-which-people-will-be-able-to-walk

India’s first standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ launched by IIT Madras

इंडियन इंस्टीट्यूट ऑफ टेक्नोलॉजी मद्रास (आईआईटी) ने फीडनक्स मेडिकल डसस्ट के साथ डमलकर मंगलवार को देश की पहली स्वदेशी तौर पर डिजाइन की गई व्हीलचेयर लॉन्च की है। इसकी सहायता से अब डद핍ांग या अ असहाय लोग डबना डकसी मदद के ना डसफफ खडे हो सकेंगे, बल्कि वह चलडफर भी सकेंगे।

इस स्टℂडिंग व्हीलचेयर को आईआईटी मद्रास के मैकेडनकल इंजीडनयररंग डवभाग में प्रोफेसर सुजाता श्रीडनवासन के नेतृत्व में टीटीके सेंटर फॉर ररहैडबडलटेशन ररसचफ एंि डिवाइस िेवलपमेंट ने डिजाइन और डवकडसत डकया है।

इसके साथ ही इस स्टℂडिंग व्हीलचेयर तकनीक का 핍ावसायीकरण वेलकम टरस्ट और यूके के समथफन के माध्यम से डकया गया है। इस व्हीलचेयर को लगभग 15,000 셁पये की सस्ती कीमत पर ज셂रतमंदों को उपल कराया जाएगा।

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: India Times Edition: Online Journalist: Shreya Chauhan Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Innovation For Inclusivity: IIT Madras Launches A Standing Wheelchair That Costs Just Rs 15000 URL: https://www.indiatimes.com/trending/human-interest/standing-wheelchair-iit- madras-arise-379380.html

Innovation For Inclusivity: IIT Madras Launches A Standing Wheelchair That Costs Just Rs 15000

Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, has collaborated with Phoenix Medical Systems and come up with a 'standing wheelchair that enables persons with disabilities to shift between standing and sitting positions independently’, according to The New Indian Express. Standing wheelchairs are available in our country, but they are quite expensive and mostly imported.

The standing wheelchair made in India is being called ‘Arise’. According to the Managing Director of Phoenix Medical Systems, V Sashi Kumar, told The New Indian Express it will be sold for Rs 15,000.

According to The New Indian Express, Arise comes in four sizes: small, medium, large and extra-large, and this standing wheelchair can also be customised to adjust to user’s body type by making simple adjustments.

Union Minister, Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, was present when the wheelchair was launched in Chennai, along with the students and faculty of IIT Madras.

DON'T MISS "In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but have not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world. I am very happy and impressed and I congratulate IIT Madras and its partners for coming up with such a nice wheelchair, which is multipurpose and beneficial for health also, besides being cost- effective," The New Indian Express quoted him as saying.

The standing wheelchair has been developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras, headed by Prof Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Most of us do not take into consideration the difficulties faced by people who use wheelchairs. Sitting continuously for a long period of time can lead to health problems such as pressure sores and poor blood circulation. Most of the wheelchair users require a lot of effort, help and assistance to get to a standing position, and that is why a lot of them do not stand as often they would want to, or even need to.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: News Byte Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches India's first 'standing wheelchair' for differently-abled people URL: https://www.newsbytesapp.com/timeline/Science/53679/247912/india-s-first- standing-wheelchair-launched-by-iit-madras

IIT Madras launches India's first 'standing wheelchair' for differently-abled people

In a major development, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) has launched an affordable new 'standing wheelchair' for differently - abled people.

The assistive device, uniquely named 'Arise', enables a handicapped individual to navigate from one point to another while offering the ability to shift from a sitting to standing position.

Here's all you need to know about it.

For any wheelchair-bound person, the biggest issue is to keep sitting all the time - a problem that often leads to back/postural troubles.

However, the new Arise wheelchair, developed as part of a collaboration between IITM and Phoenix Medical Systems, offers a nifty solution.

It allows a person to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

Information How the device works? In order to change position from sitting to standing, a person sitting on this wheelchair would just have to use the power of their arms. The change of position will be completely stable even if it is actuated in outdoor rural areas, uneven terrains.

Development Design and development of the wheelchair IITM unveiled the wheelchair at a recent event conducted in the presence of Thaawar Chand Gehlot, the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, and several researchers, students, and faculty.

The institute added that the device's development took place at its TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development under the leadership of Professor Sujatha Srinivasan, a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Quote Plus, there are safety features too "One safety feature of Arise is the interlocking mechanism, which ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state if the knee block is not in position," Sashi Kumar, Phoenix Medical Systems MD, said adding that "the dimensions of Arise are [also] adjustable."

Pricing And, it will be available at just Rs. 15,000 And, it will be available at just Rs. 15,000 IITM commercialized the wheelchair with the support of Wellcome Trust UK's 'Affordable Healthcare in India' award that enabled access to research and manufacturing partners.

The institute was able to keep an affordable price tag of Rs. 15,000 per unit, thanks to the employment of a novel, mass-manufacturable mechanical design (a few patents pending), and Phoenix's manufacturing capabilities.

Deployment Needy may get access to this chair through government At the event, Dr. Gehlot lauded the IIT Madras' effort to develop the wheelchair and added that he has "not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world."

He then recalled PM Modi's welfare measures for differently - abled people and emphasized that the needy can get access to these wheelchairs through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: India Education Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’ URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/iit-madras-launches-indias-first-indigenously- designed-standing-wheelchair/

IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’

Indian Institute of Technology Madras in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India’s first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair.’ It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

The Standing Wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park today (5th November 2019) in the presence of Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Honourable Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, researchers, students, staff and faculty of IIT Madras besides other stakeholders in the project.

Called ‘Arise,’ the Standing Wheelchair was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras, headed by Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras. Since 2015, with CSR support from TTK Prestige, R2D2 has been involved in research related to human movement, influence of orthotic and prosthetic devices on human movement, and the design and development of mechanisms, products and assistive devices for people with impairments.

The commercialization of the Standing Wheelchair technology was made possible through support from Wellcome, U.K., through an ‘Affordable Healthcare in India’ Award, which brought together the research and manufacturing partners. Thanks to a novel mass-manufacturable mechanical design (one Indian patent granted, other Indian, U.S. and China patents pending), and Phoenix’s manufacturing capabilities, Arise will be made available at affordable prices.

Speaking about the importance of this launch, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Honourable Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, “In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but Have not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world. I am very happy and impressed and I congratulate IIT Madras and its partners for coming up with such a nice wheelchair, which is multipurpose and beneficial for health also, besides being cost-effective.”

Further, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot added, “I am really impressed by the kind of work done by the R2D2 Centre of IIT Madras and look forward to cooperating with them in the future. I am sure IIT Madras and its partners that we will try to provide standing wheelchairs to the needy through the Ministry, MLA Constituency Development and CSR Funds. It will bring health benefits as well as confidence to the users.”

It is not widely known that users of conventional wheelchairs face a host of difficulties. Being in a seated position for long durations can lead to secondary health problems such as poor blood circulation and pressure sores. However, users require considerable effort, aids and assistance to attain a standing position from their wheelchairs. Thus, they do not adopt the standing position as frequently as they need to or wish to.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimized by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs. Users can, by themselves, use standing wheelchairs to arise from the seated position to a standing position and vice versa. This can be greatly beneficial to the health, self-esteem and sense of well-being of a wheelchair user. Unfortunately, most Indian wheelchair users cannot afford the standing wheelchairs that are available.

Highlighting the work being done by R2D2, Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras, said, “The TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development, created with a generous endowment from our Distinguished Alumnus Mr. T. T Jagannathan, has become the research and innovation hub for several affordable assistive technologies, which would otherwise never have been worked upon and delivered. The standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ is one such sterling example. The Centre and Phoenix Medical Systems are to be congratulated for their persistent efforts to make the device user-friendly and affordable.”

Arise was designed in three stages. In the first stage, a hand-operated, linkage-based mechanism was developed to achieve the standing functionality. A proof-of-concept prototype was used to validate the functioning of the standing mechanism. Arise was designed such that the user can actuate it from the sitting position to the standing position and vice versa independently and in a controlled manner. This can be done using the power of the user’s arms. With optimal one-time fitting, the effort required is no more than that required to propel the wheelchair. A gas-spring was a key element in reducing the effort expended by the user. This early prototype was tested by able-bodied persons.

Speaking about the benefits of this project, Mr. Philip Jordan, Partner, Wellcome Innovations Team, said, “We are delighted to have been able to support this new, affordable and accessible innovation, which will be crucial to improving the lives of wheelchair users across India. The standing wheelchairs can help reduce the health problems associated with sitting wheelchairs. They can also empower users to be more independent in daily life, opening more opportunities and improving mental health.”

Speaking of the safety features in ‘Arise’, Mr Sashi Kumar, Managing Director, Phoenix Medical Systems, said, ‘’Phoenix, being a pioneer in medical devices sector, has been keenly interested in the safety of Arise. One safety feature of Arise is the interlocking mechanism, which ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state if the knee block is not in position. The dimensions of Arise were made adjustable and adequate safety features were incorporated.”

Testing partners include NGOs, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, individual users and clinicians who provided inputs. In further iterations, the mechanical complexity was reduced, the customizability and manufacturability improved, and the ergonomics, user interface aspects and aesthetics were addressed. Rigorous mechanical testing ensured that the device would be rugged and of high quality.

Highlighting the future goals of ‘Arise’ and R2D2, Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan, Founder and Head of R2D2, said, “We have learned a lot during our Arise development journey – the importance of flexible funding focused on impact, the need for a like-minded industry partner and the merit in involving users and the rehabilitation community in the development. We are applying these learnings to our other projects. A one-time custom- fitting of Arise is necessary to provide maximum benefit to the user. To maximize impact of our devices, R2D2 will work to create awareness about their suitability, availability, and necessary fitting and training.

At the end of the third stage, Arise was tested by more than 50 people with spinal injuries. Their feedback was positive with a couple of them pointing out that they were able to stand independently after three years, thanks to Arise. Another person said that, with Arise, he found it easier to stand compared with using callipers with another user pointing out that Arise allowed him to interact with people at eye level. He was able to order and collect food from a canteen counter independently. Arise was found to be stable even in outdoor use in rural areas, on uneven terrain.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: News Yahoo Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds efforts URL: https://in.news.yahoo.com/iit-madras-launches-first-indigenously-designed- standing-wheelchair-035558203.html

IIT Madras launches 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds efforts

These customised wheelchairs enable a differently-abled person to shift from sitting to standing position and vice-versa independently.

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot was also present at the launch of 'Arise'.

Lauding the efforts of IIT Madras, Gehlot said, "IIT Madras has done a wonderful job, I have never seen such a standing wheelchair even in a foreign country."

He also stated that his ministry will be extended the necessary help, if required to extend the benefits of this initiative to more and more specially-able citizens.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: DNA Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches India's first standing wheelchair URL: https://www.dnaindia.com/india/video-iit-madras-launches-india-s-first-standing- wheelchair-2800341

IIT Madras launches India's first standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Mathrubhumi Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches India's first standing wheelchair URL: https://www.mathrubhumi.com/print-edition/india/iit-madras-launches-standing- wheelchair-1.4259935

IIT Madras launches India's first standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Bhatkallys.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously developed ‘Standing Wheelchair’ URL: https://www.bhatkallys.com/india/iit-madras-launches-indias-first-indigenously- developed-standing-wheelchair/

IIT Madras launches India’s first indigenously developed ‘Standing Wheelchair’

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday launched India’s first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Inuth.com Edition: Digital Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras Designs India's First Affordable 'Standing Wheelchair' URL: https://www.inuth.com/beyond-the-headlines/iit-madras-designs-indias-first- affordable-standing-wheelchair/

IIT Madras Designs India's First Affordable 'Standing Wheelchair'

Researchers at IIT Madras developed India’s first indigenously-designed ‘standing wheelchair’. Called ‘Arise’, it enables people with locomotor disability to shift from a sitting to a standing position without assistance. Though standing wheelchairs in India are imported at a price of Rs 1.5 lakh, Arise will cost only Rs 15,000.

Speaking at the launch of the wheelchair, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot said,

“In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but have not seen such a good standing wheel chair anywhere in the world.”

Sitting for long hours in a wheelchair can lead to positioning problems, respiratory problems and can lead to poor digestion.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Times of India - Malayalam Samay Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: നട്ടെല്ല് തകര്‍ന്ന് ജീവിതം വീല്‍ട്ടെയറിലായവര്‍ന്ക് ഒരു സന്താഷ വാര്‍ന്ത; നില്‍കാന്‍ സഹായികുന വീല്‍ട്ടെയര്‍ന് വരുനു (IIT Madras Designs India's First Affordable 'Standing Wheelchair') URL: https://malayalam.samayam.com/latest-news/india-news/iit-madras-made- wheelchair-which-help-people-with-spinal-injury-to-stand/articleshow/71934505.cms

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: You News Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair URL: https://www.younews.in/news/iit-madras-launches-country%E2%80%99s-first- standing-wheelchair/

IIT-Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair

Indian Institute of Technology ( IIT-Madras) has launched the country's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair. The project, in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems, enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner. The wheelchair 'Arise' was launched in the presence of Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot at the institute.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Patrika Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair URL: https://www.patrika.com/jaipur-news/arise-a-standing-wheel-chair-made-by-iit- madras-5323291/

IIT-Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Himachal Abhi Abhi Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan -ग व्हीलचेयर, तीन साल मᴂ ई तैयार (IITﴂ Headline: आईआईटी मद्रास ने लॉन्च की स्टℂड Madras launches country’s first standing wheelchair) URL: https://himachalabhiabhi.com/latest-news/iit-madras-launches-standing- wheelchair.html

ग व्हीलचेयर, तीन साल मᴂ ई तैयारﴂ आईआईटी मद्रास ने लॉन्च की स्टℂड

आईआईटी मद्रास (IIT Madras) ने मंगलवार को फीडनक्स मेडिकल डसस्टम के साथ डमलकर भारत में डिजाइन की गई पहली स्टℂडिंग व्हीलचेयर ‘अराइज’ (Standing Wheelchair ‘Arise’) लॉन्च की। इससे डवकलांग 핍ल्कि को बैठने की ल्कथथडत से खडे हो पाने और डफर बैठने में मदद डमलेगी। आईआईटी मद्रास ने तीन साल की कडी मेहनत के बाद इसे तैयार डकया है। इस व्हील चेयर को जल्द ही इसे बाजारों में भी उतार डदया जाएगा।

आमतौर पर व्हील चेयर पर बैठे आदमी की देख-रेख के डलए डकसी को मौजूद रहना पडता था, लेडकन इस व्हील चेयर के आने के बाद डकसी को साथ रहने की ज셂रत नहीं होगी। कोई भी 핍ल्कि आसानी से अपने पैरों पर भी खडा हो जाएगा। इस व्हील चेयर के इस्तेमाल से न डसफफ डद핍ांग अपने पैरों पर खडे हो सकेंगे बल्कि उनमें आत्मडवश्वास भी होगा। इस चेयर की लॉल्कन्चंग के दौरान मौके पर मौजूद केंद्रीय मंत्री थावरचंद गहलोत ने कहा है, ‘सरकार ज셂रतमंदों को यह व्हीलचेयर उपल कराने का प्रयास करेगी।’

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: New Kerala Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds efforts URL: https://www.newkerala.com/news/read/242097/iit-madras-launches-first- indigenously-designed-standing-wheelchair-union-minister-lauds-efforts.html

IIT Madras launches 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds efforts

These customised wheelchairs enable a differently - abled person to shift from sitting to standing position and vice-versa independently.

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot was also present at the launch of 'Arise'.

Lauding the efforts of IIT Madras, Gehlot said, "IIT Madras has done a wonderful job, I have never seen such a standing wheelchair even in a foreign country."

He also stated that his ministry will be extended the necessary help, if required to extend the benefits of this initiative to more and more specially - able citizens.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Mena FN Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches India's first 'standing wheelchair' for differently - abled people URL: https://menafn.com/1099232523/IIT-Madras-launches-Indias-first-standing- wheelchair-for-differently-abled-people

IIT Madras launches India's first 'standing wheelchair' for differently - abled people

In a major development, the Indian Institute ofTechnologyMadras (IITM) has launched an affordable new 'standing wheelchair' for differently - abled people. The assistive device, uniquely named 'Arise', enables a handicapped individual to navigate from one point to another while offering the ability to shift from a sitting to standing position. Here's all you need to know about it.

Wheelchair Standing wheelchair to change position seamlessly

For any wheelchair-bound person, the biggest issue is to keep sitting all the time - a problem that often leads to back/postural troubles. However, the new Arise wheelchair, developed as part of a collaboration between IITM and Phoenix Medical Systems, offers a nifty solution. It allows a person to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

Pricing And, it will be available at just Rs. 15,000

IITM commercialized the wheelchair with the support of Wellcome Trust UK's 'Affordable Healthcare in India' award that enabled access to research and manufacturing partners. The institute was able to keep an affordable price tag of Rs. 15,000 per unit, thanks to the employment of a novel, mass-manufacturable mechanical design (a few patents pending), and Phoenix's manufacturing capabilities.

Deployment Needy may get access to this chair through government

At the event, Dr. Gehlot lauded theIIT Madras ' effort to develop the wheelchair and added that he has "not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world." He then recalled PM Modi's welfare measures for differently-abled people and emphasized that the needy can get access to these wheelchairs through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Hitavada Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Country’s first indigenously designed standing wheelchair launched URL: https://www.thehitavada.com/Encyc/2019/11/6/Country-s-first-indigenously- designed-standing-wheelchair-launched.html

Country’s first indigenously designed standing wheelchair launched

PREMIER technical varsity, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, on Tuesday launched the country’s “first indigenously” designed standing wheelchair, which will enable a differently-abled person shift from sitting to standing position. Named ‘Arise’, the standing wheelchair was launched in the presence of Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot at the institute here on Tuesday. IIT, Madras “in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched India’s first indigenously- designed standing wheelchair,” it said.

“It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner,” a release from the university said. It was designed and developed by the the institute’s TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2), headed by Prof Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Web India 123 Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds efforts URL: https://news.webindia123.com/news/Articles/India/20191106/3626773.htm

IIT Madras launches 'first indigenously' designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds efforts

These customised wheelchairs enable a differently - abled person to shift from sitting to standing position and vice-versa independently.

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot was also present at the launch of 'Arise'.

Lauding the efforts of IIT Madras, Gehlot said, "IIT Madras has done a wonderful job, I have never seen such a standing wheelchair even in a foreign country."

He also stated that his ministry will be extended the necessary help, if required to extend the benefits of this initiative to more and more specially - able citizens.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Dispatch Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches ‘first indigenously’ designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds efforts URL: https://www.thedispatch.in/iit-madras-launches-first-indigenously-designed- standing-wheelchair-union-minister-lauds-efforts/

IIT Madras launches ‘first indigenously’ designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds efforts

In a laudable initiative, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras has launched country’s ‘first indigenously’ designed standing wheelchair- ‘Arise’ for assisting the specially-abled person in day to day activities.

These customised wheelchairs enable a differently-abled person to shift from sitting to standing position and vice-versa independently. Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot was also present at the launch of ‘Arise’.

Lauding the efforts of IIT Madras, Gehlot said, “IIT Madras has done a wonderful job, I have never seen such a standing wheelchair even in a foreign country.”

He also stated that his ministry will be extended the necessary help, if required to extend the benefits of this initiative to more and more specially-able citizens.

“I would like my ministry to collaborate with IIT Madras to provide this wheelchair to ‘Divyangs’ all over the country. If the need arises my ministry would also help financially to this initiative”, Gehlot said.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Punjab Tribune Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches 'rst indigenously' designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds eorts URL: http://www.punjabtribune.com/news/159471-iit-madras-launches-first- indigenously-designed-standing-wheelchair-union-minister-lauds-efforts.aspx

IIT Madras launches 'rst indigenously' designed standing wheelchair, union minister lauds eorts

IIT Madras launches India's first 'standing wheelchair' for differently-abled people

In a major development, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) has launched an affordable new 'standing wheelchair' for differently-abled people.

The assistive device, uniquely named 'Arise', enables a handicapped individual to navigate from one point to another while offering the ability to shift from a sitting to standing position.

Here's all you need to know about it.

Wheelchair Standing wheelchair to change position seamlessly Standing wheelchair to change position seamlessly For any wheelchair-bound person, the biggest issue is to keep sitting all the time - a problem that often leads to back/postural troubles.

However, the new Arise wheelchair, developed as part of a collaboration between IITM and Phoenix Medical Systems, offers a nifty solution.

It allows a person to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

Deployment Needy may get access to this chair through government Needy may get access to this chair through government At the event, Dr. Gehlot lauded the IIT Madras' effort to develop the wheelchair and added that he has "not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world."

He then recalled PM Modi's welfare measures for differently-abled people and emphasized that the needy can get access to these wheelchairs through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Live Chennai Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Indias first standing wheel chair developed by IIT Madras URL: https://www.livechennai.com/detailnews.asp?newsid=50673

Indias first standing wheel chair developed by IIT Madras

Standing wheel chair!! Sound’s incredible right!! Yes, it is true.

The superb piece of news is IIT M or Indian Institute of Technology Madras had associated with Phoenix Medical Systems and with the support from UK based Wellcome Trust, has now launched India’s first standing wheel chair.

On Tuesday, this standing wheel chair named ‘Arise’ was launched officially in the presence of union minister for social justice and empowerment, Mr. Thaawarchand Gehlot.

It is superb to note that this standing wheelchair would enable a differently able person to shift from sitting to standing position and vice-versa on their own. At a cost of just Rs 15000, this ‘Arise’ could be highly useful for wide range of people as it is affordable. I

It is worthy to note that this standing wheelchair has been designed in 3 stages. Information is early prototype that was tested by differently able bodied people focused on reducing the effort expended by the user to actuate it from sitting to standing position and vice-versa. Gas spring prototype was used to achieve this.

Point to be taken into account is in the final stage this standing wheel chair was tested by more than 50 people with spinal injuries. People expressed their happiness regarding the wheel chair and said the wheelchair was stable in the outdoor use in the rural places and on the uneven terrains etc.

The minister for social justice and empowerment later appreciated the efforts made by IITM researchers in designing standing wheelchair. He highlighted the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the standing wheelchair and said he had never come across such a type of standing wheelchair. To suit the requirements of the users, Arise has got safety features and adjustable dimensions.

As per the MD of Phoenix Medical Systems, Mr. Sashi Kumar, the interlocking system present in Arise makes sure that wheelchair remains in the locked state if the knee block is not in position.

According to Sujatha Srinivasan, head R2D2 IITM, the R2D2 cell at IIT Madras that designed this standing wheelchair would work towards creating awareness about the products suitability, availability, necessary fitting and training etc.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: News Live Edition: Online Page No: Journalist: NA Headline: Indias first standing wheel chair developed by IIT Madras URL: https://www.newslivetv.com/tech/iit-madras-launches-first-indigenously- designed-standing-wheelchair-union-minister-lauds-efforts/

Indias first standing wheel chair developed by IIT Madras

These customised wheelchairs enable a differently-abled person to shift from sitting to standing position and vice-versa independently.

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot was also present at the launch of ‘Arise’.

Lauding the efforts of IIT Madras, Gehlot said, “IIT Madras has done a wonderful job, I have never seen such a standing wheelchair even in a foreign country.”

He also stated that his ministry will be extended the necessary help, if required to extend the benefits of this initiative to more and more specially-able citizens.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: News Hook Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras launches India’s 1st indigenously designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’ URL: https://newzhook.com/story/iit-madras-launches-indias-1st-indigenously-designed- standing-wheelchair

IIT Madras launches India’s 1st indigenously designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’

In #TechThursday, we feature Arise, the Standing Wheelchair launched by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras. Arise is India's first indigenously designed Standing Wheelchair and has been tested with over 50 people with spinal cord injuries.

A standing wheelchair that allows the user to shift positions independently and in a controlled manner. That's what Arise designed by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras promises.

Arise has been launched in India with the support of United Kingdom-based foundation Wellcome and is all set for commercial production in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems.

The Standing Wheelchair was launched at the IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment.

Arise was designed developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras. Since 2015 the R2D2 has been involved in research related to human movement, influence of orthotic and prosthetic devices on human movement, and the design and development of mechanisms, products and assistive devices for people with disabilities. The commercialisation of the Standing Wheelchair technology was made possible with the support of Wellcome, which brought together the research and manufacturing partners. What's even better is that thanks to a novel mass-manufacturable mechanical design, Arise will be made available at affordable prices.

In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but Have not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world. I am very happy and impressed and I congratulate IIT Madras and its partners for coming up with such a nice wheelchair, which is multipurpose and beneficial for health also, besides being cost-effective. - Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment

Advantages of Arise Users of conventional wheelchairs face many difficulties. Being seated for long periods can lead to secondary health problems such as poor blood circulation and pressure sores. They need considerable effort, aids and assistance to stand and this makes them avoid doing so as frequently as they need to or wish to.

This is where standing wheelchairs can play a critical role as users can arise from the seated position to a standing position by themselves and vice versa.

Praising the work done by R2D2, Professor Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras said, "The Centre and Phoenix Medical Systems are to be congratulated for their persistent efforts to make the device user-friendly and affordable."

Arise was designed in three stages. In the first stage, a hand-operated, linkage- based mechanism was developed to achieve the standing functionality. A proof- of-concept prototype was used to validate the functioning of the standing mechanism. Arise was designed such that the user can propel it independently and in a controlled manner by using their arms. The effort required is no more than that required to propel the wheelchair. A gas-spring helps reduce the effort required by the user.

"We are delighted to have been able to support this new, affordable and accessible innovation, which will be crucial to improving the lives of wheelchair users across India", said Philip Jordan, Partner, Wellcome Innovations Team. "The standing wheelchairs can help reduce the health problems associated with sitting wheelchairs. They can also empower users to be more independent in daily life, opening more opportunities and improving mental health."

Highlighting the safety features of Arise, Sashi Kumar, Managing Director, Phoenix Medical Systems, said the interlocking mechanism ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state if the knee block is not in position. "The dimensions of Arise were made adjustable and adequate safety features were incorporated."

Testing partners include NGOs, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, individuals who provided inputs. Rigorous mechanical testing ensured that the device would be rugged and of high quality.

"A one-time custom-fitting of Arise is necessary to provide maximum benefit to the user", said Professor Sujatha Srinivasan, Founder-Head, R2D2."To maximise impact of our devices, R2D2 will work to create awareness about their suitability, availability, and necessary fitting and training".

At the end of the third stage, Arise was tested by more than 50 people with spinal injuries. Their feedback was positive with a couple of them pointing out that they were able to stand independently after three years, thanks to Arise. Another person said that, with Arise, he found it easier to stand compared with using callipers. Arise was found to be stable even in outdoor use in rural areas, on uneven terrain.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: BW Education Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Boby George Headline: IIT Madras CFI Students Enthral Businesses, Industries With Cutting-Edge Technologies And Innovations URL: http://bweducation.businessworld.in/article/IIT-Madras-CFI-Students-Enthral- Businesses-Industries-With-Cutting-Edge-Technologies-And-Innovations/07-11-2019- 178608/

IIT Madras CFI Students Enthral Businesses, Industries With Cutting-Edge Technologies And Innovations

IIT Madras students from the Centre for Innovation (CFI) showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public recently during CFI Open House 2019.

The CFI Open House is an annual event showcasing the recent work and achievements of student innovators as well as providing an opportunity for their projects to be displayed on a large scale, leading to implementation.

From formula cars, drones to next-generation technologies such as ‘Hyperloop,’ several competition teams and clubs that have won international acclaim not only displayed their products but also demonstrated them to the public during this annual flagship event of CFI.

CFI has produced teams that have made waves globally. CFI team Avishkar Hyperloop was the only team from Asia to be among the top 22 teams, shortlisted from over 1,600 entries worldwide, to qualify for the finals of 2019 Hyperloop Pod Competition organized by SpaceX. CFI Team Raftar Formula Racing was the only Indian Team that qualified for Formula Student Germany 2018.

Highlighting the importance of CFI, Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras, said, “Centre For Innovation (CFI) at IIT Madras has become the hub of self-actuated student innovation activities at the Institute. Right from the time freshers join the Institute, those with a desire to build and make are provided the ambience and the mentoring by seniors to get their feet wet.”

“Many go on to build fantastic machines, algorithms and devices, and some of these efforts have morphed into startups. IIT Madras Teams participate in and win at many international car, robotics, and other such competitions. The annual CFI Open House gives an opportunity for the community, particularly school children, to see the latest projects undertaken, and derive inspiration from them,” he added.

A completely student-run platform, CFI was set up with a vision to encourage engineers to apply knowledge from their academic pursuits to ‘innovate’ and propose solutions to real-world problems. Almost a decade since its inception, CFI is now home to ten clubs and four competition teams with over 600 students involved in activities over the year.

Speaking about the work that goes on at CFI, Boby George, Faculty Advisor, CFI- IIT Madras, said, “The innovation that emerges from CFI is pure magic. Magic because these fantastic ideas are born only out of passion, of a diverse group of enthusiastic young minds, to come together for a common goal. The goal to better the world we live in using the amazing power of technology responsibly.”

Four competition teams have represented IIT Madras and the country in international competitions - Raftar Formula Racing, Anveshak (University Rover Challenge), Abhiyaan (Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition) and Avishkar Hyperloop (SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competition).

Highlighting the impact CFI Teams have had, Akash Anandan, Student Executive Head, CFI, IIT Madras, said, “Multiple innovations from the CFI community have been accepted and lauded by Government Agencies and private industries/businesses for having tremendous potential to improve lives.”

“To name a few, the project ‘Eye in the Sky’ leverages autonomous drone usage to help relief and post-disaster surveillance, helping first responders. Another project in the field of computer Vision ‘Textile Quality Analysis’ involves estimating the quality of fabric/textile using images captured from the camera. Autonomous Driving in a Simulated Environment, Text to Braille Converter, Agricopter, Computer Vision for the Traffic Management, Powered Exoskeleton, and I.O.T. for Air Quality Measurement are among other highlights of this year,” he added.

To strengthen the innovation ecosystem within the campus, CFI ensures that a pipeline of potential incubatees is created through a body called ‘Nirmaan,’ which seeks out students with ideas that have commercial potential and puts them through a one-year programme to refine the ideas, develop products, and formulate business plans.

Nirmaan is a program structured for students who come up with an idea and wish to create a start-up. It empowers teams with everything they need to convert their idea into an incubated startup, preparing projects to become a company by helping them in the startup process, design and prototype the product. It is a pre- incubator, where ideas mature towards incubation.

Some of the projects demonstrated during CFI Open House 2019 include:

Autonomous Driving in a Simulated Environment: The objective is to use a simulated environment to train an agent (a car) to navigate through complex traffic scenarios including dealing with crossings without signals, random pedestrians, slow-moving cars and traffic rule breakers. The images are first segmented to extract information on the lanes, signals and other cars, along with depth information. Following this, control algorithms are used to maintain the car's position in the lane, identify intersections and perform lane changes.

Hate Speech Detection: Extracting data from popular social media sites and perform sentiment and statistical analysis on the same to obtain the overall Sentiment and Temperament regarding a particular keyword or tweet. And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

Text-to-Braille Converter: Around 285 Million people worldwide are visually impaired or Sighted. Existing digital Braille reading devices are bulky and expensive – only 5% of visually impaired people own one. Also, only 3% of all text content is available in Braille. The major impetus of this CFI project is to provide a viable solution for these hitches and to improve and to economize the existing solutions. The team has engineered a portable Text-to-Braille Interactive Device Since its inception in 2016, Nirmaan has brought out many stellar start-ups into the world market. This year three project teams from CFI- Agricopter, UAVs for Disaster Management and Dbyt Dynamics have been inducted into Nirmaan.

The Centre for Innovation (CFI) has been the source of ideas that have gone on to become successful startups. Some such startups that came from CFI include:

Ather Energy: It is a start-up building India's first Smart Electric Scooter, the S340. The Ather S340 has a touch screen dashboard connected to the cloud, host of smart features and offers a top speed of 72 kmph. The scooter is designed in- house by Ather and will be manufactured in India. LeanAgri: It is developing a unique algorithm named LeanNutri that provides a season-long calendar for the farmer. This calendar is personalized after collecting 20+ parameters from the farm. The calendar specifies step by step action to be taken by farmer based on scientific principles in order to increase farm yields and incomes. HyperVerge Inc: It is a Silicon Valley based deep-learning start-up funded by NEA, Millyways Ventures and Naya Ventures. HyperVerge has developed patent- pending technology for real-time analysis of images and videos obtained from satellite images, CCTV feeds, documents & industries.

Foldable House: A house which can be folded and taken anywhere. The simple and novel design makes the foldable house a great fit in many markets where instant housing is required. When used at its fullest potential can cater to huge markets like construction, defence, and military and refugee housing.

Planys Technologies: It provides submersible robotic inspection and survey solutions using Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). Planys brings world class technology and cutting-edge innovations in underwater robotics and diagnostics in the shallow-mid depth segment. Planys’ technology spans the domains of marine robotics, advanced Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE), and post- inspection analysis.

Airwood: It is a full-stack agri production management and data sciences company. Airwood helps farmers, FPOs, aggregators and agri-entrepreneurs realize the full potential of their farms. They work towards creating solutions meant for uplifting farmers and farming as a whole, and profit from the performance and financials of the farm.

Lema Labs: It strives to build an ecosystem for emerging technologies by providing support to stakeholders which includes student community, educational institutions and the industry.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: Finland scholars to collaborate with IIT-M on climate change URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/finland-scholars-to-collaborate- with-iit-m-on-climate-change-air-quality/articleshow/71946370.cms

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: CNN News 18 Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: R2D2 lab's Wheel Chair launch URL to download: https://we.tl/t-1fgNG76yqK

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: Republic TV Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: R2D2 lab's Wheel Chair launch URL to download: https://we.tl/t-1fgNG76yqK

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Nav Bharat Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan ग वीलचेयर) IIT Madras Launchesﴂ Headline: (IIT मद्रास ने लॉꅍच की भारत की पहली स्वदेशी टℂड Country’s First Standing Wheelchair URL: https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/education/education-news/iit-madras- launches-indias-first-indigenously-designed-standing-wheelchair-named- arise/articleshow/71932552.cms

ग वीलचेयरﴂ IIT मद्रास ने लॉꅍच की भारत की पहली स्वदेशी टℂड

आईआईटी मद्रास ने मंगलवार को भारत की पहली स्वदेशी थ‍टℂडिंग वीलचेयर को लॉꅍ‍च डकया। इसकी मदद से डदव‍यांग स्वतंत्र 셂प से और डनयंडत्रत तरीके से बैठने से खडे होने की पोडजशन में आसानी से डशफ्ट हो सकेंगे।

इस थ‍टℂडिंग वीलचेयर को Arise नाम डदया गया है डजसे केंद्रीय सामाडजक ाय और अडिकाररता मंत्री थावरचंद गहलोत की मौजूदगी में लॉꅍ‍च डकया गया। बता दें , इस वीलचेयर को आईआईटी डद쥍‍ली ने डफडनक्‍स मेडिकल डसथ‍ट륍‍स के साथ डमलकर लॉꅍ‍च डकया है।

इस वीलचेयर को इंल्कस्टट्यूट के टीटीके सेंटर फॉर ररहैडबडलटेशन ररसचफ ऐंि डिवाइस डिवेलपमेंट (आर2िी2) द्वारा डिजाइन और डिवेलप डकया गया है। इसका नेतृ配‍व प्रफेसर सुजाता श्रीडनवासन ने डकया।

यूडनवडसफटी के मुताडबक, 'सेंटर साल 2015 से टीटीके प्रेल्कस्टज से डमले सीएसआर सपॉटफ से ह्यूमन मूवमेंट, ह्यूमन मूवमेंट पर ऑथोडटक और प्रॉथ‍थेडटक डिवाइसों के प्रभाव और मेकडनजम के डिजाइन व डिवेलपमेंट, डदव‍यांगों के डलए उत्पादों और सहायक उपकरणों से जुडी ररसचफ में शाडमल था।

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Quint Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras Launches Country’s First Standing Wheelchair URL: https://fit.thequint.com/health-news/iit-madras-standing-wheel-chair

IIT Madras Launches Country’s First Standing Wheelchair

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on Tuesday, 7 November, launched India's first indigenously-designed 'Standing Wheelchair,' the IITM said.

The standing wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, and others

The wheel chair was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development at IITM. fbtw The team was headed by Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

The commercialisation of the wheel chair technology was made possible through support from Wellcome UK, through an 'Affordable Healthcare in India' Award, which brought together the research and manufacturing partners.

He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund.

Problems due to prolonged sitting may be minimised by using standing wheelchairs instead of conventional wheelchairs. fbtw (This story was auto-published from a syndicated feed. No part of the story has been edited by FIT.)

(Delhi is in a public health emergency. The air outside is visibly toxic - how has the hazardous air #pollution impacted you? Write down your #PollutionKaSolution and send it to us at [email protected].) Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Apherald Edition: Online Journalist: Siby Herald Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: India's first standing wheelchair launched by IIT Madras URL: https://www.apherald.com/politics/read/412380/india-s-first-standing-wheelchair- launched-by-iit-madras

India's first standing wheelchair launched by IIT Madras

Reportedly the Indian Institute of technology madras (IITM) in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems on tuesday launched India's first indigenous designed 'Standing Wheelchair. Meanwhile the standing wheel chair branded as Arise enables a differently- abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

Image result for India's First standing Wheelchair launched by IIT Madras

Furthermore the standing wheelchair was launched at IIT madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others. According to IITM, the wheel chair was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development at IITM, headed by sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Perhaps the commercialization of the wheel chair technology was made possible through support from Wellcome, UK, through an 'Affordable Healthcare in India' Award, which brought together the research and manufacturing partners.

When speaking about the importance of this launch, Gehlot said "In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in india and abroad but have not seen such a good standing wheel chair anywhere in the world”. Gehlot said in the statement “He said the standing wheelchairs can be provided to the needy through government, constituency development fund of lawmakers and corporate social responsibility fund”.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Dainik Bhaskar Edition: Online Journalist: NA ग व्हीलचेयर (IIT Madras Launches Country’sﴂ Headline: IIT मद्रास ने बनाई भारत की पहली स्टℂड First Standing Wheelchair) URL: https://www.bhaskar.com/videos/news/iit-madras-launches-india-s-first- indigenously-developed-01681251.html

ग व्हीलचेयरﴂ IIT मद्रास ने बनाई भारत की पहली स्टℂड

भारत की पहली स्टℂडिंग व्हीलचेयर लॉन्च। आईआईटी मद्रास ने इसे िेवलप डकया है। डद핍ांग इसकी मदद से आसानी से बैठ और खडे हो सकते हℂ। जल्द ही व्हीलचेयर को सस्ती कीमत पर माकेट में उपल कराया जाएगा

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: One India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan गﴂग व्हीलचेयर, अब चल सकᴂगे डद핍ाﴂ Headline: आईआईटी मद्रास ने बनाई देश की पहली स्टℂड (IIT Madras Launches Country’s First Standing Wheelchair) URL: https://hindi.oneindia.com/news/india/iit-madras-has-launched-first-standing- wheelchair-of-country-531992.html

गﴂग व्हीलचेयर, अब चल सकᴂगे डद핍ाﴂ आईआईटी मद्रास ने बनाई देश की पहली स्टℂड

भारतीय प्रौोडगकी संथथान (आईआईटी-मद्रास) ने देश की पहली स्टℂडिंग व्हीलचेयर बनाई है। इंस्टीट्यूट ने इसे फीडनक्स मेडिकल डसस्ट के साथ डमलकर बनाया है। इस व्हीलचेयर को स्वदेशी तौर पर डिजाइन डकया गया है। इसकी मदद से अब डद핍ांग या अ असहाय लोग ना डसफफ खडे हो सकेंगे, बल्कि वह चलडफर भी पाएंगे।

इस खास व्हीलचेयर को आईआईटी मद्रास के मैकेडनकल इंजीडनयररंग डवभाग में प्रोफेसर सुजाता श्रीडनवासन के नेतृत्व में टीटीके सेंटर फॉर ररहैडबडलटेशन ररसचफ एंि डिवाइस िेवलपमेंट ने डिजाइन और डवकडसत डकया है। वहीं इस व्हीलचेयर तकनीक का 핍ावसायीकरण वेलकम टरस्ट और यूके के समथफन से डकया गया है। इस व्हीलचेयर को लगभग 15 हजार 셁पये की सस्ती कीमत पर ज셂रतमंदों को उपल कराया जाएगा। व्हीलचेयर को केंद्रीय सामाडजक ाय व अडिकाररता मंत्री थावरचंद गहलोत की मौजूदगी में लॉन्च डकया गया है। केंद्रीय मंत्री गहलोत ने इस पहल के डलए आईआईटी-मद्रास की सराहना की है। इस दौरान उꅍोंने डद핍ांगों के डलए नरेंद्र मोदी सरकार की डवडभन्न कल्याणकारी योजनाओं के बारे में भी कहा। डजसमें देश के डवडभन्न डहस्ों में अलग-अलग खेलों के डलए पांच राष्ट्र ीय स्तर के पररष्कृत खेल केंद्र थथाडपत करना भी शाडमल है।

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Glibs Edition: Online Journalist: NA ग लोगﴂHeadline: आईआईटी मद्रास की टीम ने बनाई खास व्हीलचेयर, चलडिर सकᴂगे डद핍ा (IIT Madras Launches Country’s First Standing Wheelchair) URL: https://glibs.in/MISC/IIT-Madras-team-made-special-wheelchairs-handicapped- people-76845.html

ग लोगﴂआईआईटी मद्रास की टीम ने बनाई खास व्हीलचेयर, चलडिर सकᴂगे डद핍ा

इंडियन इंस्टीट्यूट ऑफ टेक्नोलॉजी मद्रास (आईआईटी) ने फीडनक्स मेडिकल डसस्ट के साथ डमलकर देश की पहली स्वदेशी तौर पर डिजाइन की गई व्हीलचेयर लॉन्च की है। इसकी सहायता से अब डद핍ांग या अ असहाय लोग डबना डकसी मदद के ना डसफफ खडे हो सकेंगे, बल्कि वह चलडफर भी सकेंगे। इस स्टℂडिंग व्हीलचेयर को आईआईटी मद्रास के मैकेडनकल इंजीडनयररंग डवभाग में प्रोफेसर सुजाता श्रीडनवासन के नेतृत्व में टीटीके सेंटर फॉर ररहैडबडलटेशन ररसचफ एंि डिवाइस िेवलपमेंट ने डिजाइन और डवकडसत डकया है। इसके साथ ही इस स्टℂडिंग व्हीलचेयर तकनीक का 핍ावसायीकरण वेलकम टरस्ट और यूके के समथफन के माध्यम से डकया गया है। इस व्हीलचेयर को लगभग 15,000 셁पये की सस्ती कीमत पर ज셂रतमंदों को उपल कराया जाएगा।

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: GS Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: દિવ્ય廒ગ અને દનસહય્ લોકો મયટે આવી ખુશખબર : કોઈપણની મિિની નહી廒 પડે જ싂ર, આ શોધ નવો ઇદિહયસ રચશે (IIT Madras Launches Country’s First Standing Wheelchair) URL: https://www.gstv.in/iit-madras-made-special-standing-wheelchairs-through-which- people-will-be-able-to-walk-gujarati-news/

દિવ્ય廒ગ અને દનસહય્ લોકો મયટે આવી ખુશખબર : કોઈપણની મિિની નહી廒 પડે જ싂ર, આ શોધ નવો ઇદિહયસ રચશે

ઇન્ડિયન ઇડ્ટીટ્યૂટ ઓફ ટેકનોલોજી મદ્રાસે ન્ફન્ન囍સ મેન્િકલ ન્સ્ટમની સાથે મળીને મંગળવારે દેશની પહેલી ્વદેશી રીતે ન્િઝાઇન કરાયેલી 훍હીલચેર લોડચ કરી.

તેની સહાયતાથી ન્દ훍યાંગ અથવા ન્નસહાય લોકો કોઇની પણ મદદ વગર ન માત્ર ઉભા થઇ શકશે પરંતુ હરીફરી પણ શકશે.

આ ્ટેન્ડિંગ 훍હીલચેરને આઇઆઇટી મદ્રાસના મેકેન્નકલ એન્ડિન્નયર ન્વભાગના પ્રોફેસર સુજાતા શ્રીન્નવાસનના નેતૃ鋍વમાં ટીટીકે સેડટર ફોર ન્રહેન્િન્લટેશન ન્રસચચ એડિ ન્િવાઇસ િેવલપમેડટે ન્િઝાઇન અને ન્વકસીત કરી છે.

આ સાથે િ ્ટેન્ડિંગ 훍હીલચેર ટેકન્નકનું 훍યવસાયીકરણ વેલકમ ટર્ટ અને યુકેના સમથચનના માધ્યમથી કરાયું છે. આ 훍હીલચેરને સ્તી ન્કંમત પર િ싂ન્રયાતમંદ લોકોને ઉપલબ્ધ કરાવાશે.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Tamil Asian Villenews Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: இந்鎿யாힿன் 믁தல் எ폁ந்鏁 நிற்埁ம் வே鎿சகாண்ட ’ퟀல்றேர்’: அேத்鎿ய சேன்னன ஐஐ羿 URL: https://tamil.asiavillenews.com/article/iit-madras-invents-a-standing-wheel-chair- called-arise-19874

இந்鎿யாힿன் 믁தல் எ폁ந்鏁 நிற்埁ம் வே鎿சகாண்ட ’ퟀல்றேர்’: அேத்鎿ய சேன்னன ஐஐ羿

இ鏁வமர 1.5 லட்ெை் 쏂பாய்க்埁 சவளி நா翁களி쮿쏁ந்鏁 த쏁ힿக்கப்பட்ட இந்த எ폁ந்鏁 நிற்埁ை் ퟀல்லெர், இனி சவ쟁ை் 쏂.15,000க்埁垿மடக்埁ை்.

இந்鎿யாힿன் 믁தல் எ폁ந்鏁 நிற்埁ை் ퟀல்லெமர கை்翁 ꮿ羿த்鎿쏁க்垿ற鏁 சென்மன ஐ.ஐ.羿뾿ன் ை쟁வாழ்ퟁ ஆராய்ெ்殿 ைற்쟁ை் க쏁ힿகள் லைை்பாட்翁த் 鏁மற(R2D2).

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Shiksha Edition: Online Journalist: Yamini Saini Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras launches country's first standing wheelchair URL: https://www.shiksha.com/articles/iit-madras-launches-country-s-first-standing- wheelchair-blogId-25443

IIT-Madras launches country's first standing wheelchair

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has launched India's first indigenously designed standing wheelchair called ‘Arise’. Arise has been designed for assisting the specially-abled person in day-to-day activities. These wheelchairs enable a differently- abled person to shift from sitting to standing position and vice-versa independently. It was designed in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems with UK-based Welcome Trust’s support.

Headed by Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Madras, Arise was developed at the TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2), four months ago. It was launched at the IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment and others.

Gehlot applauded the efforts made by IIT Madras. He said, “I have never seen such a standing wheelchair even in a foreign country." He further said that his ministry would like to extend the benefits of this initiative to more specially-abled citizens. “I’d like my ministry to collaborate with IIT Madras to provide this wheelchair to 'Divyangs' across India. If the need arises, my ministry would also provide financial assistance for this initiative,” he added.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Hello Tricity Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras Launches India’s First ‘Standing Wheelchair’ URL: https://hellotricity.in/iit-madras-launches-indias-first-indigenously-developed- standing-wheelchair/

IIT Madras Launches India’s First ‘Standing Wheelchair’

Arise was formally launched by Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, at IIT-Madras Research Park on Tuesday.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Yuv News Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-Madras Launches Indigenously Designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’ URL: https://www.yuvnews.com/13896/iit-madras-launches-indigenously-designed- lsquo-standing-wheelchair-rsquo

IIT-Madras Launches Indigenously Designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’

A new affordable ‘standing wheelchair’ that enables persons with disabilities to shift between standing and sitting positions independently, has been indigenously designed by IIT-Madras in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems (PMS).

Called ‘Arise,’ the standing wheelchair costs Rs 15,000, V Sashi Kumar, MD, PMS, told Express. Arise comes in four sizes: small, medium, large and extra-large and can be customised to suit users’ body type by making simple adjustments, he said. The wheelchair was launched in the presence of Thawar Chand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, researchers, students, staff and faculty of IIT-M besides other stakeholders.

“In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies, but have not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere. I am very happy and impressed and I congratulate IIT-M and its partners for coming up with the wheelchair, which is multipurpose besides being cost-effective,” said Gehlot.

It was designed and developed by TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT-M, headed by Sujatha Srinivasan of the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Users of conventional wheelchairs face a host of difficulties. Being seated for long periods can lead to secondary health problems. Now, the users can, by themselves, use standing wheelchairs to arise from the seated position. They will not have mobility in the standing position.

“The feature was not added as we kept safety as a priority. If a user tried to stand and move on a slope, it may lead to instability,” said Sujatha Srinivasan, adding Arise can be most efficiently used by people with spinal cord injuries.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Gujrat Today Edition: Ahmedabad Page No: 10 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: દિવ્ય廒ગો મયટે આશીવયાિ છે આ ટે囍નોલો狀, િેમનુ廒狀વન બનયવ URL: https://www.iamgujarat.com/videos/news-videos-news-videos/chair-designed-by- iit-madras-student-is-a-blessing-for-physically-challenged-people-477905/

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Business Line Edition: Mumbai / Pune / Chennai / Ahmedabad Page no.: 15 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Lt Gen P R Shankar (Retd) Student: Siddharth Aedavalli Headline: IIT-Madras to host Defence Tech Summit as part of annual student festival Shaastra URL: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/education/iit-madras-to-host- defence-tech-summit-as-part-of-annual-festival-shaastra/article29919106.ece

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Lt Gen P R Shankar (Retd) Headline: IIT Madras students to organise defence tech summit on disruptive technologies URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/iit-madras-students-to-organise- defence-tech-summit-on-disruptive-technologies/articleshow/71969966.cms

IIT Madras students to organise defence tech summit on disruptive technologies

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M fest to host defence tech summit

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Chennai Page No: 8 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Lt Gen P R Shankar (Retd) Headline: IIT-M to hold first ever ‘Defence Tech Summit’ in Jan

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express - Edex Edition: Online Journalist: Shreesha Ghosh Professor: Prof. Lt Gen P R Shankar (Retd) Headline: IIT Madras' Defence Innovation Challenge to provide tech-based solutions for problems faced by the IAF URL: https://www.edexlive.com/campus/2019/nov/08/iit-madras-defence-innovation- challenge-to-provide-tech-based-solutions-for-problems-faced-by-the-ia-8981.html

IIT Madras' Defence Innovation Challenge to provide tech-based solutions for problems faced by the IAF

Indian Institute of Technology Madras students will be conducting the first-ever ‘Defence Tech Summit,’ to be organised entirely by students of an Indian educational institution, from January 3 to 5, 2020 as a part of Shaastra, the institution's technical fest. The summit aims to contribute to the indigenisation of defence technology in a major way. As part of the Defence Tech Summit, the students are also organising a ‘Defence Innovation Challenge,’ a four-month-long competition that urges participants to ideate and come up with tech-based solutions in the field of Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Virtual Reality to solve real-world problems faced by the Indian Armed Forces.

The challenge offers problem statements in three tracks namely — Robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR). For the first round of the Defence Innovation Challenge, the participating team will have to submit a proof of concept in the respective tracks and in the corresponding format mentioned below. It will be held for a duration of 14 weeks and participants can avail mentorship, which would be provided by technical experts post-round one of the events. Following this, the top five teams from AI and AR/VR and top eight teams from Robotics track will be provided mentorship from experts in the respective fields post-round one. This mentorship will be aimed towards creating final concrete solutions for each problem statement. The teams selected from AI, AR/VR tracks and Robotics track will be invited to present their final solutions on the first day of Defence Tech Summit.

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: India Education Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Lt Gen P R Shankar (Retd) Headline: IIT Madras students to organise defence tech summit on disruptive technologies URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/iit-madras-students-to-organize-defence-tech- summit-focusing-on-disruptive-technologies/

IIT Madras students to organise defence tech summit on disruptive technologies

Indian Institute of Technology Madras students will be conducting the first-ever ‘Defence Tech Summit,’ to be organised entirely by students of an Indian Educational Institution, from 3rd to 5th January 2020 as a part of Shaastra.

The Summit aims to contribute to indigenisation of defence technology in a major way. Shaastra is the annual technical festival of IIT Madras and is entirely student–run. It is the first in the country to get an ISO certification. It receives an annual footfall of over 50,000 and serves as a medium for networking and knowledge exchange.

A major objective of this Summit is to showcase and boost the defence start-up ecosystem by providing a networking forum and to enlighten the youth about opportunities in this rapidly advancing field. Registrations for the Summit are now open. For Registration and further information – https://summit.shaastra.org

Each year, Shaastra is conducted based on a central theme aimed at boosting unconventional, upcoming fields of technology to understand the manner in which the students of IIT Madras, can positively impact the field and help the country.

Highlighting the importance of ‘Defence Tech Summit 2020,’ Lt.Gen. P.R. Shankar (Retd), Professor of Practice, Department of Aerospace Engineering, IIT Madras, who is guiding the students in organizing this summit, said, “Shaastra 2020 with its main theme of ‘defence technology’ is in direct response to the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call to IITs to contribute to the defence preparedness of the nation. It is indeed very creditable and farsighted on the part of IIT Madras students to have conceptualised this event in sync with the requirements of time in consultation with the Armed Forces. It is a very important event since it is focusing on tomorrow’s defence technologies. I wish the students the very best in their endeavours in conducting this landmark event.”

The Summit will serve as a platform for students, amateurs, enthusiasts, and professionals from all over the country to unite, ideate, network and deliberate upon various fields of defence technology. It will host an eminent set of dignitaries from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Armed forces and the private defence sector along with workshops on the latest innovations in the field, panel discussions, exhibition of state-of-the-art defence technologies and models made by defence manufacturers and PSUs.

Speaking about the national stand on advancements in Defence Technology, Prof S. Christopher, Former Secretary (Defence R&D) and Former Chairman of DRDO, and currently, a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Madras, who is also guiding the organising team, said, “The Indian Government is determined and committed to ensure ‘Make in India’ is a reality and hence the government departments and Indian industries are poised to make a turnaround in the indigenous defence production leading even to export’.

Prof. Christopher added that, ‘Shaastra with its maiden ‘Defence Tech Summit’ will do good in bringing awareness amongst the students!”

The Defence Tech Summit will also host a Defence Expo during Shaastra wherein Defence manufacturers and trailblazing startups will get to showcase their products. The Summit participants will also get a chance to undergo an educational visit to Kattupalli Shipyard, a multi-acre Shipyard cum Captive Port-complex maintained by L&T with state-of-the-art facilities for ship-building and repairs.

Speaking about the role that students play in the field of Defence Technology, Mr. Siddharth Aedavalli, Student Core Team Member – Shaastra, IIT Madras, said, “Technologies such as UAVs and AI, among others, are changing the landscape of the defence industry. As students we can utilise our inquisitiveness, pragmatic and out of the box approach to come up with innovative solutions to problems encountered by the Armed Forces. Shaastra wants to promote the participation of students in this untouched field and contribute towards national security.”

The field of defence continuously drives new innovations that have a significant impact on everyone’s lives. Cutting edge technology like AI, IoT and UAVs hold much promise for defence applications. Threats of terrorism and cyber warfare also need to be addressed with tech-driven solutions. This has propelled Shaastra to contribute to the cause by organising the Defence Tech Summit so as to bring its participants up to speed on the latest advancements in defence technology.

As part of the Defence Tech Summit, the students are also organizing ‘Defence Innovation Challenge,’ a four-month long competition that urges participants to ideate and come up with tech-based solutions in the field of Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Virtual Reality to solve real world problems faced by the Indian Armed Forces.

This event is being conducted in consultation with HQ Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) and in collaboration with L&T Defence, L&T-Nxt, and Newspace Research and Technologies.

The Summit is likely to witness addresses by important dignitaries in the defence sector including Lt. Gen. Satish Dua, former Chief of Integrated Defence Staff who was also involved in planning sensitive military operations, is scheduled to speak on Counter- Terrorism technologies. Mr. J.D. Patil, Whole-time Director, and Senior Executive Vice President ((Defence, L&T-NxT)) is scheduled to speak on intricacies of entering the defense technology arena.

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: The Better India Edition: Online Journalist: Rinchen Norbu Wangchuk Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: Why IIT-Madras’s Affordable ‘Standing Wheelchair’ Can Be a Lifechanger for India’s Diff-Abled URL: https://www.thebetterindia.com/202456/iit-innovation-madras-standing- wheelchair-invention-phoenix-india/

Why IIT-Madras’s Affordable ‘Standing Wheelchair’ Can Be a Lifechanger for India’s Diff- Abled

The Standing Wheelchair launched earlier this week by IIT Madras, and Phoenix Medical Systems is what happens when innovation meets necessity and empathy.

Called ‘Arise’, it allows wheelchair-enabled people, to independently shift from sitting to standing position in a seamless and controlled manner.

Available for Rs 15,000, Arise was designed and developed at the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) in IIT-Madras under the guidance of Professor Sujatha Srinivasan, who teaches in the Mechanical Engineering department.

Handmade, eco-friendly and long-lasting—what’s not to love about this uber cool clock made from banana fibre! This product is made by Chetana, an NGO that caters to the needs of differently-abled people in Sirsi, Karnataka.

Since 2008, R2D2 has conducted intensive research on human kinesiology, designing and developing various devices for people with different physical impairments.

However, Arise would not have been possible without Wellcome Trust, a UK-based research charity, which, before even funding the project, also offered inputs on the proposal for commercializing the standing wheelchair, enabling the coming together of the research and manufacturing partners

Why is this innovation important?

The conventional wheelchair is great for mobility, but it comes with its own set of problems. For example, for people who use wheelchairs, prolonged seating results in a lot of secondary health problems such as poor blood circulation and pressure sores.

“It is essential that wheelchair users stand at least a few times a week to ensure lower limb health and blood circulation. Some weight-bearing on the legs will also ensure sure that the bones don’t deteriorate. However, this requires considerable effort, aid and assistance, which most do not have, so this tends to become an infrequent activity,” says Professor Srinivasan to The Better India.

Meanwhile, there is also a psychological component of standing freely.

“For young people, who once moved around freely, the entire experience of using a wheelchair poses a serious impact on their psychological well-being. They always find themselves in a seated position looking up to people and talking to them and need assistance at all times. It can affect their confidence and self-esteem. With the ability to stand, they become more functional. The ability to stand is a real life-changer for them,” she adds.

How was it designed?

As per a press release issued by IIT-Madras earlier this week, Arise was designed in three stages.

“In the first stage, a hand-operated, linkage-based mechanism was developed to achieve the standing functionality. A proof-of-concept prototype was used to validate the functioning of the standing mechanism.

Arise was designed such that the user can actuate it from the sitting position to the standing position and vice versa independently and in a controlled manner. This can be done using the power of the user’s arms.

With optimal one-time fitting, the effort required is no more than that required to propel the wheelchair. A gas-spring was a crucial element in reducing the effort expended by the user. This early prototype was tested by able-bodied persons.”

The wheelchair has been designed and built in such a way that that effort required for the user to stand using it is equal to or less than that of moving the wheelchair, as they have used a linkage with spring balancing system.

“We use gas springs that can be adjusted to suit the users weight. Irrespective of weight, we use the same gas springs. Its position can be adjusted in the mechanism and that helps us to customise it to each user’s weight,” says Professor Srinivasan.

The Standing Wheelchair has been more than five years in the making. But it was back in 2015 when the project seriously took off with R2D2 applying for funding from the Wellcome Trust.

‘Arise,’ the Standing Wheelchair designed and developed by TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras. (Source: IIT- Madras) ‘Arise,’ the Standing Wheelchair designed and developed by TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras.

“They worked with us to make the proposal viable, which is unusual because funding agencies don’t really engage in such assistance. They suggested that we needed an industry partner if the objective was to commercialize it. Colleagues in IIT Delhi introduced me to Sashi Kumar, the Managing Director of Phoenix Medical Systems, a pioneer in the medical devices sector. After Sashi saw our early prototypes, he told us that it could be done affordably. Fortunately, the funding from the Wellcome Trust also came through,” says Professor Srinivasan.

Two of her students, Swostik Dash and Vivek Sarda, decided to work on the project full time from 2015 onwards after obtaining their degrees and foregoing high paying jobs. They felt that the project could have a real impact on human lives.

“We worked on design and analysis, while Phoenix helped us build prototypes that underwent extensive testing. Thanks to S Vaidyanathan, the co-founder of The Ganga Trust, which supports rehabilitation of physically challenged, we were able to rigorously test our standing wheelchair on people with spinal cord injuries across various hospitals like CMC Vellore, nonprofits like Amar Seva Sangam in Tamil Nadu, APD in Karnataka, and rehabilitation centres, while receiving inputs from individual users and clinicians,” she adds.

Also Read: Eco-Friendly Recycling Method Helps IITian Increase Shrimp Production by 400%!

The team made field visits to several places to understand the conditions wheelchair users are living in. This really helped them understand what a wheelchair user goes through.

“One safety feature of Arise is the interlocking mechanism, which ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state if the knee block is not in position. The dimensions of Arise were made adjustable and adequate safety features were incorporated,” said Sashi Kumar, Managing Director of Phoenix Medical Systems.

Arise is being manufactured at a Phoenix factory in Pondicherry. Although it costs Rs 15,000, Professor Srinivasan recommends that a one-time evaluation and fitting be done by a medical practitioner for optimal performance, which may entail further costs.

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: BW Education Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras Launches India’s First Standing Wheelchair URL: http://bweducation.businessworld.in/article/IIT-Madras-Launches-India-s-First- Standing-Wheelchair/08-11-2019-178711

IIT Madras Launches India’s First Standing Wheelchair

IIT Madras in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems launches India’s first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair’ that enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

The Standing Wheelchair was launched at IIT Madras Research Park recently in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, researchers, students, staff and faculty of IIT Madras besides other stakeholders in the project.

Speaking about the importance of this launch, Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, “In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but Have not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world. I am very happy and impressed and I congratulate IIT Madras and its partners for coming up with such a nice wheelchair, which is multipurpose and beneficial for health also, besides being cost-effective.”

“I am really impressed by the kind of work done by the R2D2 Centre of IIT Madras and look forward to cooperating with them in the future. I am sure IIT Madras and its partners that we will try to provide standing wheelchairs to the needy through the Ministry, MLA Constituency Development and CSR Funds. It will bring health benefits as well as confidence to the users,” he added.

Called ‘Arise,’ the Standing Wheelchair is designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT Madras, headed by Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras. Since 2015, with CSR support from TTK Prestige, R2D2 has been involved in research related to human movement, influence of orthotic and prosthetic devices on human movement, and the design and development of mechanisms, products and assistive devices for people with impairments.

Highlighting the work being done by R2D2, Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras, said, “The TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development, created with a generous endowment from our Distinguished Alumnus Mr. T. T Jagannathan, has become the research and innovation hub for several affordable assistive technologies, which would otherwise never have been worked upon and delivered. The standing wheelchair ‘Arise’ is one such sterling example. The Centre and Phoenix Medical Systems are to be congratulated for their persistent efforts to make the device user-friendly and affordable.”

Speaking about the benefits of this project, Philip Jordan, Partner, Wellcome Innovations Team, said, “We are delighted to have been able to support this new, affordable and accessible innovation, which will be crucial to improving the lives of wheelchair users across India. The standing wheelchairs can help reduce the health problems associated with sitting wheelchairs. They can also empower users to be more independent in daily life, opening more opportunities and improving mental health.”

This can be done using the power of the user’s arms. With optimal one-time fitting, the effort required is no more than that required to propel the wheelchair. A gas-spring was a key element in reducing the effort expended by the user. This early prototype was tested by able-bodied persons.

Speaking of the safety features in ‘Arise’, Sashi Kumar, Managing Director, Phoenix Medical Systems, said, ‘'Phoenix, being a pioneer in medical devices sector, has been keenly interested in the safety of Arise. One safety feature of Arise is the interlocking mechanism, which ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state if the knee block is not in position. The dimensions of Arise were made adjustable and adequate safety features were incorporated.”

Highlighting the future goals of ‘Arise’ and R2D2, Sujatha Srinivasan, Founder and Head of R2D2, said, “We have learned a lot during our Arise development journey – the importance of flexible funding focused on impact, the need for a like-minded industry partner and the merit in involving users and the rehabilitation community in the development. We are applying these learnings to our other projects. A one-time custom- fitting of Arise is necessary to provide maximum benefit to the user. To maximize impact of our devices, R2D2 will work to create awareness about their suitability, availability, and necessary fitting and training.

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: Life 365 Edition: Pune Page No: 1 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Sujatha Srinivasan & Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi Headline: Here comes India's first standing wheelchair

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Logical Indian Edition: Online Journalist: NA Faculty: Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: India’s First Indigenously Designed Standing Wheelchair Launched At IIT Madras URL: https://thelogicalindian.com/health/first-standing-wheelchair-chennai-iit/

India’s First Indigenously Designed Standing Wheelchair Launched At IIT Madras

The TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development at IIT Madras launched India’s first “indigenously designed” standing wheelchair which can enable a person with a disability to stand independently.

The wheelchair was officially launched on Tuesday, November 5 at the IIT Madras Research Park in the presence of Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot along with other distinguished guests.

Known as “Arise”, the apparatus was designed by the TTK Centre under the guidance of Prof Sujatha Srinivasan from the Mechanical Engineering department of the college, who also happens to be the head of the Research Centre. Such a wheelchair will make it easier for the disabled person to stand up independently and in a more controlled manner. According to the Managing Director of Phoenix Medical Systems, V Sashi Kumar,- the wheelchair will be sold at Rs 15,000.

The user’s arm will enable them to function the wheelchair in the desired manner. The wheelchair will also help avoid health issues that could arise by constantly using a conventional wheelchair. “Using the wheelchair all the time can give secondary health problems like lowered blood circulation sore body and pressure sores. One needs to stand at least three times a week,” Sujatha Srinivasan said to The Times of India. The wheelchairs are set to hit the markets soo and will be available at the same price as a conventional wheelchair.

Thaawarchand Gehlot also lauded the professors for the invention and said he has not seen such a wheelchair anywhere else. “In the last five years, I have seen a lot of modern technologies in India and abroad but have not seen such a good standing wheelchair anywhere in the world,” reported The News Minute. Gehlot also said that the government will provide assistance in making the wheelchairs accessible to the public and would also give financial help is needed.

Date:10th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi Headline: IIT Madras CFI students enthral the industries with their cutting-edge innovations URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/iit-madras-cfi-students-enthral- the-industries-with-their-cutting-edge-innovations/articleshow/71981895.cms

IIT Madras CFI students enthral the industries with their cutting-edge innovations

Date:10th November 2019 Publication: BW Education Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi Headline: IIT Madras CFI Students Enthral Businesses, Industries With Cutting-Edge Technologies And Innovations URL: http://bweducation.businessworld.in/article/IIT-Madras-CFI-Students-Enthral- Businesses-Industries-With-Cutting-Edge-Technologies-And-Innovations/07-11-2019- 178608/

IIT Madras CFI Students Enthral Businesses, Industries With Cutting-Edge Technologies And Innovations

IIT Madras students from the Centre for Innovation (CFI) showcased some of their cutting- edge innovations and technologies to the public recently during CFI Open House 2019.

Speaking about the work that goes on at CFI, Boby George, Faculty Advisor, CFI-IIT Madras, said, “The innovation that emerges from CFI is pure magic. Magic because these fantastic ideas are born only out of passion, of a diverse group of enthusiastic young minds, to come together for a common goal. The goal to better the world we live in using the amazing power of technology responsibly.

Some of the projects demonstrated during CFI Open House 2019 include:

Since its inception in 2016, Nirmaan has brought out many stellar start-ups into the world market. This year three project teams from CFI- Agricopter, UAVs for Disaster Management and Dbyt Dynamics have been inducted into Nirmaan.

The Centre for Innovation (CFI) has been the source of ideas that have gone on to become successful startups. Some such startups that came from CFI include:

LeanAgri: It is developing a unique algorithm named LeanNutri that provides a season- long calendar for the farmer. This calendar is personalized after collecting 20+ parameters from the farm. The calendar specifies step by step action to be taken by farmer based on scientific principles in order to increase farm yields and incomes.

HyperVerge Inc: It is a Silicon Valley based deep-learning start-up funded by NEA, Millyways Ventures and Naya Ventures. HyperVerge has developed patent-pending technology for real-time analysis of images and videos obtained from satellite images, CCTV feeds, documents & industries.

Planys Technologies: It provides submersible robotic inspection and survey solutions using Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). Planys brings world class technology and cutting- edge innovations in underwater robotics and diagnostics in the shallow-mid depth segment. Planys’ technology spans the domains of marine robotics, advanced Non- Destructive Evaluation (NDE), and post-inspection analysis.

Lema Labs: It strives to build an ecosystem for emerging technologies by providing support to stakeholders which includes student community, educational institutions and the industry.

Date:10th November 2019 Publication: Daily Hunt Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi Headline: IIT Madras CFI Students enthrall businesses, industries and the public with their cutting-edge Technologies & Innovations URL: https://m.dailyhunt.in/news/india/english/skill+outlook-epaper- skillout/iit+madras+cfi+students+enthrall+businesses+industries+and+the+public+with+th eir+cutting+edge+technologies+innovations-newsid-145260124

IIT Madras CFI Students enthrall businesses, industries and the public with their cutting- edge Technologies & Innovations

Indian Institute of Technology Madras students from the Centre For Innovation (CFI) showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public today (2nd November 2019) during CFI Open House 2019.

From Formula Cars and Drones to next generation technologies such as 'Hyperloop,' several competition teams and clubs that have won international acclaim not only displayed their products but also demonstrated them to the public during this annual flagship event of CFI.

CFI has produced teams that have made waves globally. CFI Team Avishkar Hyperloop was the only Team from Asia to be among the top 22 teams, shortlisted from over 1,600 entries worldwide, to quality for the finals of 2019 Hyperloop Pod Competition organized by SpaceX.

CFI Team Raftar Formula Racing was the only Indian Team which qualified for Formula Student Germany 2018.

Highlighting the importance of CFI, Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras, said,"Centre For Innovation (CFI) at IIT Madras has become the hub of self-actuated student innovation activities at the Institute. Right from the time freshers join the Institute, those with a desire to build and make are provided the ambience and the mentoring by seniors to get their feet wet."

Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi added, "Many go on to build fantastic machines, algorithms and devices, and some of these efforts have morphed into startups. IIT Madras Teams participate in and win at many international car, robotics, and other such competitions. The annual CFI Open House gives an opportunity for the community, particularly school children, to see the latest projects undertaken, and derive inspiration from them."A completely student-run platform, CFI was set up with a vision to encourage engineers to apply knowledge from their academic pursuits to 'innovate' and propose solutions to real-world problems. Almost a decade since its inception, CFI is now home to ten clubs and fourcompetition teams with over 600 students involved in activities over the year.

Speaking about the work that goes on at CFI, Prof. Boby George, Faculty Advisor, CFI-IIT Madras, said, "The innovation that emerges from CFI is pure magic. Magic because these fantastic ideas are born only out of passion, of a diverse group of enthusiastic young minds, tocome together for a common goal. The goal to better the world we live in using the amazing power of technology responsibly."

Since its inception, CFI has augmented the 'tech' space in the institute. CFI Projects have gone on to produce high-profile startups and internationally acclaimed competition teams apart frombagging laurels at national and international levels. Driven by passion and fuelled byenthusiasm, CFI aims to kindle the spirit of inquiry and foster the spirit of engineering not just inIIT Madras but also in other institutes via mentorship.Four competition teams have represented IIT Madras and the country in international competitions - Raftar Formula Racing, Anveshak (University Rover Challenge), Abhiyaan (Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition) and Avishkar Hyperloop (SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competition).

Highlighting the impact CFI Teams have had, Mr. Akash Anandan, Student Executive Head, CFI, IIT Madras, said, "Multiple innovations from the CFI community have been accepted and lauded by Government Agencies and private industries/businesses for havingtremendous potential to improve lives."

Further Mr. Akash Anandan added, "To name a few, the project 'Eye in the Sky' leverages autonomous drone usage to help relief and post disaster surveillance, helping first responders. Another project in the field of computer Vision 'Textile Quality Analysis' involves estimating the quality of fabric/textile using images captured from camera. Autonomous Driving in a Simulated Environment, Text to Braille Converter, Agricopter, Computer Vision for the Traffic Management, Powered Exoskeleton, and I.O.T. for Air Quality Measurement are among other highlights of this year."

To strengthen the innovation ecosystem within the campus, CFI ensures that a pipeline of potential incubatees is created through a body called ' Nirmaan ,' which seeks out students with ideas that have commercial potential and puts them through a one-year programme to refine the ideas, develop products, and formulate business plans.

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: India Ahead News Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Headline: Standing WheelChair URL: https://we.tl/t-MqTcievtjL

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: India News Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Headline: Standing Wheelchair URL: https://we.tl/t-Thtu2jr2Fl

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India - Education Times Edition: Delhi / Faridabad / Gurgaon / Noida Page No: 21 Journalist: NA Professor: Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT-M launches standing wheelchair

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express- Education Express Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 14 Journalist: NA Headline: What an invention, sirji

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: Sakshi Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 16 Journalist: NA Headline: అ రై灍呁ర్చు (Arise chair)

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras students to organize Defence Tech URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/iit-madras-students-to-organize-defence-tech- summit-focusing-on-disruptive-technologies/

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: News Today Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras students to organize Defence Tech Summit

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: India Education Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras students to organize Defence Tech Summit focusing on disruptive technologies URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/iit-madras-students-to-organize-defence-tech- summit-focusing-on-disruptive-technologies/

IIT Madras students to organize Defence Tech Summit focusing on disruptive technologies

Prof. Christopher added that, ‘Shaastra with its maiden ‘Defence Tech Summit’ will do good in bringing awareness amongst the students!”

This event is being conducted in consultation with HQ Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) and in collaboration with L&T Defence, L&T-Nxt, and Newspace Research and Technologies.

Requests

The Shaastra Team requests all serving and retired members of the Armed Forces and officials of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, and Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) to participate and guide the students in the event. This event is dedicated to the Armed Forces.

The Shaastra Team also requests maximum participation of the defence industry in the event to showcase their capabilities and also to motivate students to take up defence technology as a career option. All defence start-ups are specially requested to come forward and participate in the event so that the defence start-up ecosystem in the country is put on track.

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras CFI students enthral the industries with their cutting-edge innovations URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/iit-madras-cfi-students-enthral- the-industries-with-their-cutting-edge-innovations/articleshow/71981895.cms

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Herald Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: India's first indigenous standing wheelchair launched URL: https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/indias-first-indigenous-standing- wheelchair-launched-775246.html

India's first indigenous standing wheelchair launched

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: Career Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: അംഗപരിമിതര്‍ന്്് ന്സാഷവാര്‍ന്; ഇനി വീല്‍ട്ട്െയറില്‍ നില്‍്ുകയും ട്ട്ൊം! (India's first indigenous standing wheelchair launched by IIT Madras) URL: https://www.manoramaonline.com/education/education-news/2019/11/11/iit- madras-launches-india-s-first-standing-wheelchair.html

അംഗപരിമിതര്‍ന്്് ന്സാഷവാര്‍ന്; ഇനി വീല്‍ട്ട്െയറില്‍ നില്‍്ുകയും ട്ട്ൊം!

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: InUth Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: (India's first indigenous standing wheelchair launched by IIT Madras) URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lbNt-R5t_I

(India's first indigenous standing wheelchair launched by IIT Madras

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: The Logical Indian Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras Launches India’s First Standing Wheelchair URL: https://thelogicalindian.com/video/awareness/iit-madras-launches-indias-first- standing-wheelchair/

IIT Madras Launches India’s First Standing Wheelchair

The standing wheelchair branded as ‘Arise’ enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

Date: 13th November 2019 Publication: DD News Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras ने डवकडसत डकया देश का पहला स्वदेशी Standing Wheelchair URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1K1ymbg2Q0w

IIT Madras ने डवकडसत डकया देश का पहला स्वदेशी Standing Wheelchair

Date: 13th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Entrepreneurial summit from Dec 4

Date: 15th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: Aditi R Alumni: Mr. M.V Shankar and Mr. R. Raghuttama Rao Headline: IIT-Madras’ Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre trains over 45 entrepreneurs URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/iit-madras- gopalakrishnan-deshpande-centre-trains-over-45- entrepreneurs/articleshow/72058260.cms

IIT-Madras’ Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre trains over 45 entrepreneurs

Date: 15th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: Finale of science initiative conducted

Date: 15th November 2019 Publication: India Education Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Alumni: Mr. M.V Shankar and Mr. R. Raghuttama Rao Headline: IIT Madras’ Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre trains over 60 entrepreneurs in the fourth cohort of its I-NCUBATE program URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/iit-madras-gopalakrishnan-deshpande-centre-trains- 60-entrepreneurs-fourth-cohort-ncubate-program/

IIT Madras’ Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre trains over 60 entrepreneurs in the fourth cohort of its I-NCUBATE program

The Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (GDC) at IIT Madras completed the fourth cohort under its flagship I-NCUBATE program, that enables faculty, researchers and entrepreneurs to commercialise their technology ideas and develop robust start-ups that create positive societal impact. The Finale of Cohort 4 was held at IIT Madras campus today (13th April 2019).

The fourth cohort comprised teams working on deep-tech ideas from diverse areas including AI, Healthcare, Environment Science, Material Science, Logistics and Building Materials. Including this cohort, GDC has now successfully completed four cohorts of I- NCUBATE, benefitting about 40 start-up teams and enhancing the entrepreneurial capabilities of over 200 participants from multiple institutions including IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry and Swinburne University of Technology, Australia.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Prof. K. VijayRaghavan, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India said, “I am impressed by the initiatives of the Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre in strengthening the Lab to Market movement through deep-tech start-ups. This is critical in creating a robust ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship that the Government is keen to develop. I understand that GDC intends to scale the I-NCUBATE program and establish world class nodes of innovation, which aligns with the Government’s vision of making India a global innovation hub.”

I-NCUBATE is an eight-week program during which selected teams, each comprising a faculty lead, an entrepreneur lead, entrepreneur team and a mentor, come together as a cohort under the GDC umbrella and go through a customer discovery exercise with their respective business ideas. All the teams were unanimous in their appreciation of the transformative experience and learning that I-NCUBATE has provided them with during their entrepreneurial journey.

Addressing the Event, Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras congratulated all the teams on completing the I-NCUBATE program and wished them success.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. R. Raghuttama Rao, Chief Executive Officer, GDC, IIT Madras, said, “Building a start-up is not simply creating an execution plan for a business model that the entrepreneur thinks will work, but rather, a search for the actual business model itself. The main idea of I-NCUBATE is learning how to rapidly develop and test ideas by gathering first-hand customer and marketplace feedback by the founders of a startup.”

The I-NCUBATE program is designed to have the following outcomes

1) enabling a team to gain a deep understanding of the customer needs based on first- hand evidence obtained from customers on their pains and potential gains;

2) helping a team to arrive at a Go/No-Go decision to take the idea to the next stage, based on the quality of the problem-solution fit and market viability;

3) throwing up a set of inputs to formulate an MVP and an optimal business model to attain a good product-market fit and scalability, going forward;

4) enabling faculty, researchers, and students to develop entrepreneurial skills and mindset.

Speaking to researchers and aspiring entrepreneurs during the Finale, Prof. Krishnan Balasubramanian, Professor-in-Charge of GDC, said, “Many start-ups fail by not validating their ideas early on with real-life customers. In order to mitigate that, participants of I-NCUBATE learn how to get out of the building and search for the real pain points and unmet needs of customers.”

Date: 14th November 2019 Publication: All India Radio Edition: Electronic Journalist: Mr. M. Jayasingh Faculty: Prof Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: IIT Madras R2D2 Centre launches Standing Wheelchair

All India Radio - Arise Launch, 14th Nov 2019(update).mp3

Date: 15th November 2019 Publication: Vikatan Edition: Online Journalist: B. Kevin Faculty: Prof T. Pradeep Headline: `ꮿளாஸ்羿க்埁ம் கனர뿁ம் !' (Plastic can be reduced) URL: https://www.vikatan.com/science/inventions/plastic-do-decompose-finds-iit- madras-chemistry-team

`ꮿளாஸ்羿க்埁ம் கனர뿁ம் !' (Plastic can be reduced)

ꮿளாஸ்羿க்垿ற்埁 ைாற்쟁 லத羿வ쏁ை் இன்மறய 毂ழ쮿ல், அமத இயற்மகலயா翁 இமயந்த வமக뾿ல், 毁ற்쟁ெ்毂ழமலப் பா鎿க்காைல் தகர்க்க வ펿கள் உை்翁 என்쟁 கை்翁ꮿ羿த்鎿쏁க்垿ன்றனர், சென்மன ஐஐ羿 லவ鎿뾿யல் 鏁மற뾿னர். ஐஐ羿-뾿ன் லவ鎿뾿யல் 鏁மறமயெ் லெர்ந்த லபரா殿ரியரான ꮿர鏀ப்ꮿன் தமலமை뾿ல் கை்翁ꮿ羿க்கப்பட்ட இந்த 믁மற뾿ன்믂லை் ஃப்쿂லரா பா쮿ைர் பா쮿சடட்ரா ஏத்鎿쯀ன் சகாை்ட சடப்ஃலான் என்ꟁை் ஒ쏁வமக ꮿளாஸ்羿க்மக தகர்க்க 믁羿뿁ை்.

ꮿளாஸ்羿க் 埁ப்மப

இதற்埁, 埁쿁க்லகாஸ் தை்ைீ쏁ை் ஒ쏁 கலப்பாꟁை் (stirer) லபா鏁ை் என்ப鏁தான் இ鎿ல் 埂翁தல் ஆெ்ெர்யை். உலலாகை் தை்ைீரில் கமரயா鏁 என்ப鏁 நிய鎿. ஆனால், 埁쿁க்லகாஸ் தை்ைீமர 70 羿垿ரி செல்�யஸ் 毁டமவக்埁ை்லபா鏁, சவள்ளி கமரவமத ஐஐ羿 லவ鎿뾿யல் ꮿரிힿனர் 믂ன்쟁 வ쏁டங்க쿁க்埁 믁ன்ꯁ கை்翁ꮿ羿த்鏁ள்ளார்கள் . இமத அ羿ப்பமடயாகக்சகாை்翁 ꮿளாஸ்羿க்மக 殿மதப்பதற்埁 믁யன்쟁ள்ளனர்.

சடப்ஃலானில் இ쏁க்埁ை் பா쮿சடட்ரா ஃப்쿁லரா ஏத்鎿쯀மன (Polytetrafluoroethylene) சதாடர்ெ்殿யாக 15 நாள்கள், 70 羿垿ரி செல்�யஸ் சவப்பநிமல뾿ல் தை்ைீரில் 1000ppm 埁쿁க்லகாமஸ뿁ை் உலலாக அயனிகமள뿁ை் கலக்垿க்சகாை்லட இ쏁ந்தால், ஃப்쿂லரா பா쮿ைர் 믂லக்埂쟁கமளத் தகர்க்கெ் செய்ய 믁羿뿁ை் என்쟁 லவ鎿뾿யல் 鏁மற லபரா殿ரியர் ꮿர鏀ப் ힿளக்垿னார். இலத 믁மறமயப் ꮿன்பற்잿 பா쮿ப்லராꮿ쯀மன뿁ை் (Polypropylene) 殿மதக்க 믁羿뿁ை்.

லபரா殿ரியர் ꮿர鏀ப் ைற்쟁ை் ைாைவர் அꮿ玿த் நாக்

"தங்க 믁லாை் ꯂெப்பட்ட கை்ைா羿க்埁வமள뾿ல், 埁쿁க்லகாஸ் தை்ைீரில், சடப்லான் ꯂெப்பட்ட காந்த கலப்பான் கரை்羿யால் சதாடர்ெ்殿யாகக் 垿ள잿லனாை். 殿ல நாள்கள் க펿த்鏁, ஒளி쏁ை் 殿வப்ꯁ நிற அடர் 鏁கள்கள் லைற்ꯁறத்鎿ல் 뮿தப்பமதக் கை்லடாை். 殿ல ஆை்翁க쿁க்埁 믁ன் , தங்கை் 殿잿鏁殿잿தாக 埁쿁க்லகால் கமரவமதக் கை்翁ꮿ羿த்லதாை். இந்த நிகழ்மவ 埁쿁க்லகாஸ் கலமவ ைட்翁ைல்லா鏁 ꮿற வமகயான ெர்க்கமரக் கமரெல்களி쯁ை் நடத்鎿ப்பார்த்லதாை் . லைற்பரப்ꮿல் 뮿தந்த ஒளி쏁ை் அடர்殿வப்ꯁ நிற 鏁கள்கள் தங்கை் என்பமத அ잿ந்லதாை். தங்கத்லதா翁 ஃப்쿂லரா கார்பன் பா쮿ைர் 鏁கள்க쿁ை் 뮿தந்தன. தரை் 埁மறந்த சடஃப்லானாக இ쏁க்埁ை், அ毁த்தை்தான் சவளிலய쟁垿ற鏁 என்லற 믁த쮿ல் நிமனத்லதாை்.

சடஃப்லான் 鏁கள்கள் , தட்翁கள் என்쟁 சவவ்லவ쟁 ힿதைான சபா쏁ள்கமளெ் லொதமனக்埁 உள்ளாக்垿லனாை். ꮿன்னர், அசைரிக்காힿ쮿쏁ந்鏁ை் சடஃப்லான் 鏁கள்கமள வாங்垿 ஆராய்ெ்殿க்埁 உட்ப翁த்鎿லனாை். சடஃப்லான் 埁翁மவ ைற்쟁ை் சவவ்லவ쟁 வமகயான உலலாகங்கமளப் பயன்ப翁த்鎿னா쯁ை் 믁羿ퟁ ஒன்றாகலவ வந்த鏁. காப்பர், சவள்ளி, இ쏁ை்ꯁ பயன்ப翁த்鏁ை்லபா鏁 லைலல 뮿தக்埁ை் ꏁை்鏁கள்கள் , ஒளி쏁ை் 殿வப்ꯁ நிறத்鎿ல் இல்மல.

Triboelectric degradation

உயர்뮿ன் 殿மதퟁ쟁தல் 믂லை் பா쮿ைர் ꏁை்鏁கள்களாக ைா쟁垿ற鏁 என்பமதக் கை்翁ꮿ羿த்லதாை்.

பா쮿ைர் தை்ைீ쏁டன் சதாடர்ெ்殿யாகக் கலக்கப்ப翁ை்லபா鏁 தை்ைீ쏁க்埁ை் சடஃப்லாꟁக்埁ை் இமடலய 뮿ன்鎿றன் உ쏁வா垿ற鏁. தை்ைீ쏁டன் 埁쿁க்லகாஸ் லெர்க்கப்ப翁ை்லபா鏁, அயனிகள் உலலாக லைற்பரப்ꮿல் வந்தமட垿ன்றன.

இமலக்埁ப் ப鎿ல் ꮿளாஸ்羿க் கவரில் லதாமெ! - காவலரிடை் ெவால்ힿட்ட ஃபாஸ்ட் ஃꯁட் ஓன쏁க்埁殿க்கல்

PTFE 믁லாை் ꯂெப்பட்ட காந்த சபல்லட் 毁ழ쯁ை்லபா鏁, உராய்ힿன் 鏂ை்翁தல் சபல்லட்羿ல் நடந்鏁, PTFE எ鎿ர்뮿ன்Ꟃட்டை் அமட垿ற鏁. PTFE லைற்ꯁறத்鎿ல் உள்ள எ鎿ர்뮿ன்லனாட்டை், லைற்ꯁறத்鎿ல் வந்தமடந்鏁 உலலாக அயனிகமள ஈர்க்垿ற鏁. உலலாக அயனிக쿁க்埁ை் PTFE-க்埁ை் இமடலயயான சதாடர்ꯁ உலலாக பா쮿ைர் இமைப்ꯁ உ쏁வாகக் காரைைா垿ற鏁. இ鏁 PTFE 믂லக்埂쟁களாக உதퟁ垿ற鏁.

ொதாரை சவப்ப நிமல뾿ல் இந்தெ் 殿மதퟁகள் நமடசபறힿல்மல. 埁쿁க்லகாஸ் , உலலாக அயனிகள், கலக்埁தல் இல்மல என்றா쯁ை் 殿மதퟁ쟁தல் நமடசபறힿல்மல" என்쟁ை் ힿளக்垿னார். தை்ைீரில் கலந்鏁ள்ள 埁쿁க்லகான் அளமவப் சபா쟁த்鏁 இந்த Triboelectric degradation ஏற்ப翁ை். 埁쿁க்லகான் அளퟁ அ鎿கைா埁ை்லபா鏁, உலலாக அயனிகள் சவளித்தள்ளப்பட்翁 PTFE-뿁டன் ힿமனꯁரி垿ன்றன. அ鎿க அளힿல் உலலாக அயனிகள் PTFE-뿁டன் ꮿமை뿁ை்லபா鏁殿மதퟁ쟁தல் (degradation) அ鎿க அளힿல் நமடசப쟁垿ற鏁.

லபரா殿ரியர் ꮿர鏀ப்ꯁடன் அꮿ玿த் நாக் என்ற ைாைவ쏁ை் ைற்쟁ை் 殿ல쏁ை் இமைந்லத இந்த ஆராய்ெ்殿மய லைற்சகாை்翁ள்ளனர். "அலைானியா கை்翁ꮿ羿க்கப்பட்டலபா鏁, 뮿கக் 埁மறந்த அளힿல் 垿மடக்埁ை் நிமலலய இ쏁ந்த鏁. ஆனால், தற்லபா鏁 அ鏁 அ鎿க அளힿல் நைக்埁க் 垿மடக்垿ற鏁. அலதலபால்தான் , தற்லபா鏁殿잿ய அளힿல் 殿மதக்கப்ப翁ை் ப்ளாஸ்羿க், வ쏁ங்காலத்鎿ல் அ鎿க அளퟁ 殿மதக்கப்ப翁ை் என்쟁 எ鎿ர்பார்க்垿லறாை்" என்垿ற鏁 இந்தக் 埁폁.

இலத லவ鎿뾿யல் காரைத்தால், சடஃப்லான் லகாட்羿ங்சகாை்ட பாத்鎿ரங்களில் ெமைக்埁ை்லபா鏁, 垿ை்翁தல் கலக்埁தல் 믂லை் 鏁கள்களாக ꮿளாஸ்羿க் உைힿல் கலக்埁ை் அபாயை் உள்ள鏁 என்쟁ை் இந்தக் 埁폁ힿனர் சதரிힿக்垿ன்றனர்.

இன்쟁, கட쮿ல் மைக்லராꮿளாஸ்羿க்ஸ் உ쏁வாவதற்埁ை் இந்த லவ鎿뾿யல் நிகழ்லவ காரைை். இங்埁, அமலகள் Stirrer-ஆக லவமலசெய்垿ன்றன. இ鏁, 殿쟁 அ羿தான் என்றா쯁ை் ꮿளாஸ்羿க் ைா毁 இல்லாத உலமக லநாக்垿 அ잿ힿயல் எ翁த்鏁மவக்埁ை் 믁க்垿யைான அ羿!

Date: 18th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Delhi / Hyderabad / Chennai Page No: 16 Journalist: NA Student: Ms. Fathima Latif Headline: Defence tech summit

Date: 18th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Bangalore / Chennai / Kochi Page No: 13 Journalist: Aniket Prasanth Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: This standing wheelchair can help everyone rise UP

Date: 18th November 2019 Publication: India Today Edition: Online Journalist: Harshita Pathak Alumni: Mr. M.V Shankar and Mr. R. Raghuttama Rao Headline: IIT Madras' Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre trains over 45 entrepreneurs in seventh cohort URL: https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/news/story/-iit-madras- gopalakrishnan-deshpande-centre-trains-over-45-entrepreneurs-in-seventh-cohort- 1620032-2019-11-18

IIT Madras' Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre trains over 45 entrepreneurs in seventh cohort

The Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (GDC) at IIT Madras has completed the seventh cohort under its flagship I-NCUBATE program, which enables faculty, researchers and entrepreneurs to commercialise their research ideas through robust start ups that positively impact society. The Finale of Cohort 7 was held at IIT Madras campus on November 14, 2019.

Participants: The seventh cohort comprised seven teams consisting of over 45 entrepreneurs working on deep-tech ideas in Cleantech, Energy, Environmental Science, Healthcare and Bioscience.

Including this cohort, GDC has benefitted more than 65 start-ups, enhancing the entrepreneurial capabilities of over 360 participants from various institutions including IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, Pune University, KJ Somaiya College, Mumbai, PES University, Bengaluru, and Swinburne University of Technology, Australia.

Addressing the Finale, Chief Guest, V Shankar, Founder of CAMS (Computer Age Management Services), and a Distinguished Alumnus Awardee of IIT Madras, said, "India needs to invest in deep-tech start-ups that can create positive socio-economic impact at scale. We need to leverage the scientific knowledge resident in our universities and corporations and harness the abilities of researchers, scientists and entrepreneurs to build competitive advantage. GDC's Lab to Market mission, a first of its kind, is critical to transforming India into a world-class hub for innovation" GDC's objective:

R Raghuttama Rao, Chief Executive Officer, GDC, IIT Madras, addressing the Finale of I- NCUBATE program's Cohort 7 held at IIT Madras. GDC's objective is to help university spin-outs and tech transfer projects achieve better outcomes with incubators, investors and corporate partners. Their I-NCUBATE program is aimed at transforming the mind-set and entrepreneurial capabilities of participants, building skills such as handling ambiguity, understanding risk and return, improving business acumen, learning business analysis tools and enhancing communication skills.

Speaking on the occasion, R Raghuttama Rao, Chief Executive Officer, GDC, IIT Madras, said, "Building a startup is not simply creating an execution plan for a business model that the entrepreneur thinks will work, but rather, a search for the actual business model itself. The main idea of I-NCUBATE is learning how to rapidly develop and test ideas by gathering first-hand customer and marketplace feedback by the founders of a start-up." During this eight-week program, the selected teams, each comprising a faculty lead, an entrepreneur lead, entrepreneur team and a mentor, come together as a cohort under the GDC umbrella and went through a 'customer discovery exercise' with their respective business ideas. All the teams were unanimous in their appreciation of the transformative experience and learning that I-NCUBATE has provided them with during their entrepreneurial journey.

The I-NCUBATE program is designed to have the following outcomes: enabling a team to gain a deep understanding of customer needs based on first-hand evidence obtained from customers on their pains and potential gains; helping a team to arrive at a 'Go/No Go' decision to take the idea to the next stage, based on the quality of the problem-solution fit and market viability; helping a team derive inputs to formulate a minimum viable product (MVP) and an optimal business model to attain a good product-market fit and scalability, going forward; enabling faculty, researchers, and students to develop entrepreneurial skills and mindset

About Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (GDC): The Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (GDC) is an alumni-funded centre for innovation and entrepreneurship at Indian Institute of Technology ( Madras, providing the necessary thought leadership and networking impetus to help in building the systems and processes that enable innovative and entrepreneurial thinking in STEM universities across India.

While GDC is based in IIT Madras and is an integral part of its innovation & entrepreneurship ecosystem, its mandate is to work with STEM universities across India to implement a 'Lab to Market' mission by helping faculty, researchers, students and entrepreneurs commercialise their research ideas by helping them develop robust startups that positively impact India. In order to curate research ideas into sustainable business ventures that impact society at scale, GDC works with stakeholders from academia, industry, finance, and government.

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard Edition: Online Journalist: Gireesh Babu Professor: Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan Headline: This wheelchair allows users to stand up on their own and function normally URL: https://www.business-standard.com/article/technology/this-wheelchair-allows- users-to-stand-up-on-their-own-and-function-normally-119111900590_1.html

This wheelchair allows users to stand up on their own and function normally

For people with physical disabilities, whether permanent or temporary, the importance of wheelchairs is cannot be undermined. But if a patient becomes completely dependent on one to move around, and sits on the wheelchair for long, he could suffer from secondary health issues such as poor blood circulation and pressure sores. Such patients may need a great deal of effort and assistance to attain a standing position off and on. And indeed there are wheelchairs in the market that allow one to both sit and stand even while using them. But they are mostly not affordable for Indian user

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: All India Radio Edition: Electronic Journalist: Mr. Kalyanaraman Professor: Prof Andrew Thangaraj, Prof Prathap Haridoss, and Prof V. Kamakoti Headline: IIT Madras NPTEL takes technical education to the masses

All India Radio - NPTEL Story, 20th Nov 2019.wma

Date: 21st November 2019 Publication: Inceptive Mind Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launches India’s first standing wheelchair, Arise URL: https://www.inceptivemind.com/iit-madras-launches-indias-first-standing- wheelchair-arise/10339/

IIT Madras launches India’s first standing wheelchair, Arise

The conventional wheelchair is great for mobility, but a majority of users lack control over their lower limb musculature and require considerable efforts to get to a standing position. The ability to attain and maintain a standing position is greatly beneficial to the health, self-esteem, and sense of wellbeing of a wheelchair user.

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM), in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems, has recently launched India’s very first, innovative standing wheelchair called “Arise.” Developed at the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IITM, the Arise allows wheelchair users to independently shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, in a controlled manner. This can be done using the power of the user’s arms.

It allows the user to independently rise to a standing position. It allows the user to independently rise to a standing position. With optimal one-time fitting, the effort required is no more than that required to propel the wheelchair. The gas-spring, adjustable to user’s weight, enables a smooth transition from sitting position to standing position, and reduces the effort expended by the user. The wheelchair offers a standing angle of 75-degree, and its longer wheelbase ensures stability in standing position. It can handle the user weight of up to 110 kg.

The dimensions of the wheelchair were made adjustable. Arise is incorporated with adequate safety features such as an interlocking mechanism, which ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state when the user is in a standing position. Besides, this portable, rugged assistive device can be transported in an auto, bus, or train, if necessary.

Date: 24th November 2019 Publication: All India Radio Edition: Electronic Journalist: Mr M. Jaya Singh Professor: Prof Shiva Nagendra Headline: IIT Madras develops novel air sensor

All India Radio - Prof Shiva Nagendra, 24 Nov 2019 (mp3cut.net).mp3

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: Prabhat Khabar Edition: Kolkata Page No: 21 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launched standing wheelchair

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The Telegraph Edition: Kolkata Page No: 4 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras launched standing wheelchair

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Economic Times Edition: Delhi / Mumbai / Bangalore / Kolkata / Ahmedabad / Chennai Page No: 8 Journalist: Anjali Venugopalan Professor: Prof. Nandan Sudarsanam and Prof. Arun Rajkumar Headline: IITM Projects Aim to Reduce Dropouts, Improve Learning URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/services/education/iit-m-projects- aim-to-reduce-dropouts-improve-learning/articleshow/72233977.cms

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Stand in the name of futurism

IIT Madras is a research focused institute

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Down to Earth Edition: Online Journalist: Susheela Srinivas Professor: Prof. Basudev Roy Headline: Study peeks into thermal mechanisms of droplet type cooling for microchips URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/science-technology/study-peeks-into- thermal-mechanisms-of-droplet-type-cooling-for-microchips-67594

Study peeks into thermal mechanisms of droplet type cooling for microchips

Micro cooling is an emerging line of research in heat dissipation in miniaturised electronic chips. In this method, a tiny bead of the coolant is dropped on to the microchip that is heating up, which is carried away by evaporation of the droplet. Although the process appears obvious, the heat transfer mechanism is still being deciphered.

A team of Indian researchers from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) at Madras and Roorkee, along with scientist from the Indian Institute of Scientific Education and Research, (IISER), Trivandrum, have now provided preliminary insights that water droplets transport heat absorbed from microchip surfaces by generating nano-range hydrothermal waves.

“Hydrothermal waves are thermally induced travelling waves occurring on a gas-ﬂuid interface and are particularly relevant to the cases of heat and mass transfer in the microscopic domain, like in cooling of miniature chips. They directly inﬂuence the evaporation rate of the liquid coolant,” explained Dr Basudev Roy, team lead and assistant professor at IIT–M, while speaking to India Science Wire.

With high-performance electronic devices rapidly shrinking in size, the power density in them shoots up, and hence, the heat dissipation in them assumes importance. Liquid coolants are many times more efficient than traditional air cooling methods, and simple water droplet cooling is increasingly being researched.

The generated heat from the device surface is transferred to the droplet by convection and transforms it into a sessile droplet – a suspended particle – before evaporation.

This sessile droplet has two interfaces – first, at the device surface where it absorbs the dissipated heat, and second, a cooler top surface at the liquid-gas interface before evaporation.

Existing studies have found that there is a temperature gradient in the sessile droplet between these two interfaces which is caused by the evaporation at the top interface. As the evaporation progresses, there is generation of hydrothermal waves at sub-micron levels.

Infra-red cameras have helped to detect hydrothermal waveforms in the range of millimetres in volatile coolants such as ethanol which has a temperature gradient of five degrees. However, in sessile water droplets, the temperature difference is only one degree, and no such waves could be seen, indicating a possibility of non-occurrence of thermal waves in them.

Contrary to this belief, the present research has shown that the low-temperature gradient of water droplets also generate hydrothermal waves, but, they are in the nanoscale range. Due to the extremely low amplitude of these waveforms, they escape detection by the micron level infra-red camera.

To demonstrate their findings, the team employed polymer microparticles as tracers to observe the waveforms.

In their experiment, they introduced two tracer particles into the top interface of the sessile water droplet with the help of ‘optical tweezers.’ Optical tweezers is a technique devised by Nobel laureate Dr Arthur Ashkin wherein a focused laser beam is used to hold or trap a tiny particle in three-dimensional space without any influence of gravity.

They then observed the vertical oscillations of the particles between the two interfaces of the droplet and found that, the generated waves had amplitudes less than 500 nanometres and propagated parallel to the edge of the droplet.

With these results in hand, the team now looks to take the research forward by experimenting with other materials to enhance the nano waves, to accelerate cooling.

Apart from Basudev Roy, the IIT-M team included, Dhanush Bhatt, Rahul Vaippully, Bhavesh Kharbanda, Anand Dev Ranjan, and Dillip Satapathy; while, Sulochana R was from IISER, Trivandrum and Viraj Dharod was from IIT-Roorkee. The results have been published in the journal Optics Express

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Research Stash Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Basudev Roy Headline: Study Provides Insights into Thermal Mechanisms of Droplet Type Cooling for Microchips URL: https://www.researchstash.com/2019/11/04/study-provides-insights-into-thermal- mechanisms-of-droplet-type-cooling-for-microchips/

Study Provides Insights into Thermal Mechanisms of Droplet Type Cooling for Microchips

Micro cooling is an emerging line of research in heat dissipation in miniaturized electronic chips. In this method, a tiny bead of the coolant is dropped on to the microchip that is heating up, which is carried away by evaporation of the droplet. Although the process appears obvious, the heat transfer mechanism is still being deciphered.

A team of Indian researchers from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) at Madras and Roorkee, along with a scientist from the Indian Institute of Scientific Education and Research, (IISER), Trivandrum, have now provided preliminary insights that water droplets transport heat absorbed from microchip surfaces by generating nano-range hydrothermal waves.

“Hydrothermal waves are thermally induced traveling waves occurring on a gas-ﬂuid interface and are particularly relevant to the cases of heat and mass transfer in the microscopic domain, like in the cooling of miniature chips. They directly inﬂuence the evaporation rate of the liquid coolant,” explained Dr. Basudev Roy, team lead and assistant professor at IIT–M, while speaking to India Science Wire.

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: GS Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Basudev Roy Headline: Study provides insights into thermal mechanisms of droplet type cooling for microchips URL: https://www.gstimes.in/study-provides-insights-into-thermal-mechanisms-of-droplet- type-cooling-for-microchips/

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 14 Professor: Prof. Sathyan Subbiah Journalist: NA Headline: IIT team produces graphene platelets!

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Business Line Edition: Chennai / Delhi / Mumbai / Pune / Bangalore / Hyderabad / Kochi / Chandigarh / Ahmedabad / Kolkata Page No: 12 Journalist: T V Jayan Professor: Prof. R I Sujith Student: Krishna Manoj, Samadhar Pawar and Suraj Dange Headline: This IIT-Madras team has a way to kill the hum in gas engines URL: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/this-iit-madras-team-has-a- way-to-kill-the-hum-in-gas-engines/article30084146.ece#

IIT Madras is an innovation and entrepreneurship hub

Date: 1st November 2019 Publication: NDTV Edition: Online Journalist: Anisha Singh Professor: Prof. M.S. Sivakumar, Prof. Satyanarayanan Seshadri, Prof Asokan Thondiyath Headline: IIT Madras To Hold Open House To Showcase Student Innovations URL: https://www.ndtv.com/education/iit-madras-to-hold-open-house-to-showcase- student-innovations-2125282

IIT Madras To Hold Open House To Showcase Student Innovations

IIT Madras will open the door to its Centre For Innovation (CFI) for public during CFI Open House 2019. The event which will be held on November 2, 2019 (Saturday) will see participation from students who would demonstrate some cutting-edge technologies and innovations. The event will be open to public from 4 pm to 7 pm.

Those interested in visiting the event can register on the link provided on CFI website, 'cfi- iitm.com'.

The CFI Open House is an annual event where student innovators showcase their recent work and achievements. The open house also provides the opportunity to display projects on a large scale, leading to implementation. It is also an opportunity for students to network with potential mentors and facilitators in the field of technology and entrepreneurship.

Prof. M.S. Sivakumar, Dean (Students), IIT Madras, said that CFI is the hub where students brainstorm ideas.

"CFI has become an important hub for many students to wet their hands and cook their ideas. And, therefore, if there is an occasion to witness the germinating source of all those that happen at startups and beyond, it is the CFI Open House," he said.

A student-run platform, CFI was set up with a vision to encourage engineers to apply knowledge from their academic pursuits to 'innovate' and propose solutions to real-world problems. It serves as a creative hub, encouraging peer learning and providing a platform for ideas to manifest with the support of resources, workspace and mentoring.

Prof. Satyanarayanan Seshadri, Faculty Advisor, CFI and Nirmaan, IIT Madras, said, "CFI has grown from strength to strength and has done so organically after taking roots with an alumni grant. Having proven their mettle with world-class compatriots, CFI is ready for the next level and we invite you to witness future in the making. Originally a maker space, with the vision to enable any student walk in with an idea and walk out with a project, CFI is now joined by Nirmaan (India's only Student pre-incubation on campus) to enable teams wishing to explore entrepreneurship with their projects. The CFI-Nirmaan tagline now becomes 'walk in with an idea and walk out with a start-up'."

Almost a decade since its inception, CFI is now home to ten clubs and four competition teams with over 600 students being involved in activities over the year. The comprehensive inventory and workspace at CFI acquired and maintained over the years uniquely facilitates these teams and clubs to rapidly design and implement their ideas. Many CFI Teams have won international acclaim for their innovation.

Speaking about one of the competition teams, Prof Asokan Thondiyath, Faculty Advisor, Team Anveshak, CFI, IIT Madras, said, "Team Anveshak has been consistently improving their performance in the international competition in the last few years and we hope to make it to the top 5 teams this year. CFI open house gives the team an opportunity to showcase their talent and preparedness towards this goal."

It is not the only achievement by one of the CFI teams. Team Avishkar Hyperloop from CFI was the only Team from Asia to be among the 22 teams, shortlisted from over 1,600 entries that qualified for the final round of the 2019 Hyperloop Pod Competition organized by SpaceX on July 21, 2019 at their Headquarters in Los Angeles, California in July 2019. The team also met Mr. Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla.

Another team, Team Raftar Formula Racing, emerged as the Overall Static winner, Design Event winner and Cost Event runner-up in Formula Student Germany competition. Team Abhiyaan secured Second place overall in the Intelligence Ground Vehicle Competition (IGVC) 2019 at Oakland University. Team Anveshak secured 12th position in University Rover Challenge 2019 in Utah. Team Smart Agricopter and Team Eye in the Sky were shortlisted among the top ten teams in India Innovation Growth Program 2.0 and will receive funding for their projects.

Date: 1st November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: Aditi R. Faculty: Prof. M.S. Sivakumar Headline: IIT-Madras CFI students to showcase their innovations URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/iit-madras-cfi-students-to- showcase-their-innovations/articleshow/71835351.cms

Date: 1st November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express - EDEX Edition: Online Journalist: Ms. Aathira Ayyappan Professor: Prof M.S. Sivakumar Student: Mr. Akash Anandan Headline: Flock to IIT Madras' annual CFI Open House to catch up with the latest from student innovators URL: https://www.edexlive.com/campus/2019/nov/01/flock-to-iit-madras-annual-cfi- open-house-to-catch-up-with-the-latest-from-student-innovators-8869.html

Flock to IIT Madras' annual CFI Open House to catch up with the latest from student innovators

The students from Centre For Innovation (CFI) at IIT Madras will demonstrate some of their cutting-edge technologies and innovations to the public on Saturday, November 2, 2019, during CFI Open House 2019. The event is an annual flagship event showcasing the recent work and achievements of student innovators, as well as providing an opportunity for their projects to be displayed on a large scale, leading to implementation. It provides a platform for students to network with potential mentors and facilitators in the field of technology and entrepreneurship. Almost a decade since its inception, CFI is now home to ten clubs and four competition teams with over 600 students being involved in projects that have won international acclaim.

Speaking about importance of CFI, Prof M.S. Sivakumar, Dean (Students), IIT Madras, said, “If one is wondering where all those ideas of start-ups that the Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about when he visited the IIT Madras Research Park recently came from it is from the students that buzz around in CFI, immersed with their hands and minds. If there is an occasion to witness the germinating source of all those that happen at startups and beyond, it is the CFI Open House.”

A student-run platform, CFI was set up with a vision to encourage engineers to apply knowledge from their academic pursuits to ‘innovate’ and propose solutions to real- world problems. It serves as a creative hub, encouraging peer learning and providing a platform for ideas to manifest with the support of resources, workspace and mentoring.

“This year, there will be an exhibit of projects from our 10 clubs which have bagged honours in various competitions as well as projects mentored by the ICSR. There will also be exhibits from the 4 internationally-acclaimed competition teams - Team Abhiyaan which works on intelligent ground vehicle, Team Avishkar which works on hyperloop pod (the 5th mode of transport), team Anveshak which built the Mars rover of IIT Madras along with the Raftar (formula racing) team,” said Akash Anandan, Student Executive Head, CFI, IIT Madras.

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: News Today Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Professor: Mr. MS Sivakumar Headline: IIT-M students to showcase their innovations tomorrow URL: https://newstodaynet.com/index.php/2019/11/01/iit-m-students-to-showcase-their- innovations-tomorrow/

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Trinity Mirror Edition: Chennai Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-Madras CFI students to showcase innovations

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Dinamani Edition: Chennai Page No: 5 Faculty: Prof. Satyanarayanan Seshadri Headline: சேன்னன ஐஐ羿 மாணவா்களின் ꯁ鎿ய கண்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁகள் : சபா鏁மக்கள் பாா்னவ뾿ட நானள ம쟁நாள் அꟁம鎿 (IIT Madras students new inventions: Public to be allowed to see them day after tomorrow) URL: https://bit.ly/2Pzu4nC

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Dinamalar Edition: Chennai Page No: 14 Journalist: NA Headline: சேன்னன ஐ.ஐ.羿., கண்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁகள் நானள பார்னவ뾿டலாம் (IIT Madras inventions can be seen tomorrow) URL: https://www.dinamalar.com/news_detail.asp?id=2401057

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Jagran Josh Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras to Host CFI Open House 2019 for Public URL: https://www.jagranjosh.com/news/iit-madras-to-host-cfi-open-house-2019-for- public-152085

IIT Madras to Host CFI Open House 2019 for Public

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras will host its Centre for Innovation (CFI) Open House 2019 event for the public. The event will be held on 2nd November 2019 where students will present innovative and cutting edge technologies. The event will be open for public viewing from 4 PM to 7 PM. Those interested in visiting the Open House event can register on the official website of CFI - cfi-iitm.com.

IIT Madras Dean (Students), Prof. M.S. Sivakumar, said that the Open house event is a hub for many students to let their ideas brainstorm. He also referred to the event as an occasion to witness the source where startups germinate and develop. Faculty Advisor, CFI and Nirmaan, Prof. Satyanarayanan Seshadri, said that CFI, since its inception, has seen enormous growth, in terms of strength. He also said that CFI which organically was a maker space started with an alumni grant and is now joined by Nirmaan (India's only Student pre-incubation on campus). This will enable the participating teams to explore possibilities of entrepreneurship with their projects.

An annual event, the CFI Open House, is where student innovators get to showcase their recent work and achievements. It also provides the participants with an opportunity to display projects on a large scale, leading to implementation. The students also get to interact with potential mentors and facilitators in the field of technology and entrepreneurship. The student-run platform was set up with a vision to encourage engineers to apply their knowledge gained through academic pursuits. The platform motivated the students to 'innovate' and propose solutions to real-world problems.

Close to completing a decade, CFI presently houses ten clubs and four competing teams with over 600 students being involved in activities over the year. The comprehensive inventory and workspace at CFI which was acquired and has been maintained over caters to these teams and clubs enabling them to rapidly design and implement their ideas. Several CFI Teams have received international accolades for their innovative projects.

Date: 28th October 2019 Publication: India Science Wire Edition: Online Journalist: Sunderarajan Padmanabhan Professor: Dr. Vishal Nandigana Headline: IIT Madras develops software to solve engineering problems URL: http://vigyanprasar.gov.in/isw/IIT-Madras-develops-software-to-solve-engineering- problems.html

IIT Madras develops software to solve engineering problems

Researchers at Indian Institute of Technology- Madras have developed a software which they say can help solve engineering problems in fields from thermal management and semiconductors to automobile, aerospace and electronic cooling applications much faster than existing methods.

For a few years now Artificial Intelligence, machine learning and deep learning are being used in areas such as signal processing, speech recognition, image reconstruction and prediction, but few attempts have been made to use them to solve engineering problems.

" Our software works on any generalized rectilinear and curvilinear input geometry. Our research saves computational time, which is the bottleneck to solve most engineering problems "

Assistant Professor at IIT Madras and leader of the research team, Dr. Vishal Nandigana, said that the software has been found it to be nearly million-fold faster compared to existing solutions for thermal management problems. “Our software works on any generalized rectilinear and curvilinear input geometry. Our research saves computational time, which is the bottleneck to solve most engineering problems,” he explained.

“We utilized data-driven AI and deep learning to arrive at solutions for engineering problems after training AI with data sets. These prior data sets can be from existing big data in the relevant engineering industry, where lot of experimental data are available. Also, if data is not available for training the AI, it can be generated using commercially- available CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) software on small independent pieces of the full-blown problem,” he said. The team, he said, used a novel Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) and a Deep Neural Network (DNN).

Researchers are working on establishing a start-up named `Alsoft’ to offer solutions for various engineering problems based on the new software, according to an institute press release.

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: From agricopters to e-bikes, students of IIT Madras showcase innovative products at Open House URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/from-agricopters-to-e-bikes- students-of-iit-madras-showcase-innovative-products-at-open- house/article29866438.ece

From agricopters to e-bikes, students of IIT Madras showcase innovative products at Open House

Rovers, drones, e-bikes for better mobility, a 3D food printer and a text-to-braille converter were among the multiple innovations showcased at the CFI Open House 2019 by students of IIT Madras on Saturday.

Several young children and students who visited the showcase were especially interested in Team Anveshak’s all-terrain rover and Team Raftaar’s formula racing car.

‘Constantly refining’ “This year, we were placed 12th in the University Rover Challenge held in Utah and we’re working on refining the rover we’ve built over the next one year,” said Mohit Kumar, a member of Team Anveshak.

Among Team Sahaay’s innovations was a menstrual waste management system where a portable dustbin comes equipped to wrap used sanitary napkins in bio-degradable plastic which can then be taken to incinerators.

A team from the Aero Club showcased a smart ‘agricopter’, which would optimise energy, time and efficiency, helping farmers to survey and spray their fields.

Moving around the two-wheelers they have developed, the team from DbyT Dynamics said they were developing personal mobility solutions with the vision of implementing a shared e-bike mobility service within the IIT-M campus.

Towards a green campus “We hope to reduce congestion as well as vehicle emissions through the use of these e- bikes and want to work towards a green campus,” said Dhairyasheel Deshmukh, a team member.

Among their projects, the iGEM team from IIT-M has been creating an online video repository where they’ve made over 70 educational videos in English and eight regional languages.

Their other projects aim to teach the basics of genetics and synthetic biology to the public. “We want to take our content to schoolchildren next and have created comic books explaining the basics for them in a fun way,” said Amrita Mahesh, a member of the team.

Well-received projects Akash Anandan, the student executive head of CFI, said several innovations from the centre have been accepted and lauded by government agencies and private industries for their potential to improve lives.

“The CFI aims to encourage students who have a range of ideas for innovations in a number of fields. The four competition teams, which are a part of the centre, have been getting better results with every passing year and we want to showcase these interesting innovations to the public,” he added.

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-Madras students showcase lightweight bionic forearm at CFI open house URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/iit-m-students-showcase- lightweight-bionic-forearm-at-cfi-open-house/articleshow/71872533.cms

IIT-Madras students showcase lightweight bionic forearm at CFI open house

A team of students from IIT Madras has developed a prototype of a lightweight forearm prosthesis for amputees and differently abled that are controllable with the help of the muscles in the rest of the real arm that the user can still contract.

The team, Handyman Prosthesis, employs soft robotics for effective movement and gripping with the fingers and aims to make it available at a cost that less than 2% of those advanced bionic arms. The team demonstrated the prototype in the CFI (Centre for Innovation) open house at the IIT-M campus on Saturday.

Anirudh Sharma of the project said the prosthesis they have developed is non-invasive which picks up small electrical signals generated by the contracting muscles in the residual arm of the user through biosensors attached to the skin. The signals are amplified and sent to a microcontroller which then processes it and helps the arm perform a particular function.

“We have only limbs which are designed to look human. They are cosmetic and heavy. People use it only when they go out. We wanted to develop something that is efficient, comfortable and lightweight which is also affordable,” said Sharma, a second year electrical engineering student. “While those available abroad could cost Rs 30lakh, we aim to make ours available at not more than Rs 40,000.”

The five-member team has moulded fingers out of silicone, which is a soft material and is also fire and water resistant. “One of our seniors 3D-printed an arm with PLA plastic but it has a non-human feel. Ours has better grip and can even hold an egg,” said K Nisha, another team member. “When you flex your muscle, the fingers close, when you relax, it opens.”

At present, the team has developed and are further improving the prototype for below- elbow prosthesis which can be strapped on to the upper arm. They are also working to develop an above-elbow prosthesis as well as an exoskeleton prosthesis for people with paralysis and Parkinson’s diseases.

“We developed the prototype in three months. It now works on lithium ion batteries. But we are working to have an efficiency where the batteries can be charged only once a day and the total weight is not more than 150g,” Sharma said. Around 48 student projects were showcased at the annual event of CFI, a platform to encourage engineers to apply academic knowledge to innovate and find solutions to real world problems.

It includes Mars rover, Formula cars, drones, hyperloop pod to chocolate printer and portable text to Braille interactive device.

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: Education Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Boby George Student: Mr. Akash Anandan Headline: Formula Cars, Drones to new technology such as Hyperloop, Centre for Innovation at IIT Madras shows it all URL: https://www.educationtimes.com/article/campus-beat-college- events/71867645/formula-cars-drones-to-new-technology-such-as-hyperloop-centre- for-innovation-at-iit-madras-shows-it-all.html

Formula Cars, Drones to new technology such as Hyperloop, Centre for Innovation at IIT Madras shows it all

Indian Institute of Technology Madras students from the Centre For Innovation (CFI) showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies during CFI Open House 2019.

The highlight of the event included Formula Cars, Drones to next-generation technologies such as ‘Hyperloop’. Teams and clubs that have won international acclaims in the past displayed their products.

CFI is known to have produced teams that have made waves globally. CFI Team Avishkar Hyperloop was the only team from Asia to be among the top 22 teams, shortlisted from over 1,600 entries worldwide. CFI Team Raftar Formula Racing was the only Indian Team which qualified for Formula Student Germany 2018.

Highlighting the importance of CFI, Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras, said, “Centre For Innovation (CFI) at IIT Madras has become the hub of self-actuated student innovation activities at the Institute. Right from the time freshers join the Institute, those with a desire to build and make are provided the ambience and the mentoring by seniors to get their feet wet.”

Speaking about the work that goes on at CFI, Prof. Boby George, Faculty Advisor, CFI-IIT Madras, said, “The innovation that emerges from CFI is pure magic. Magic because these fantastic ideas are born only out of passion, of a diverse group of enthusiastic young minds, to come together for a common goal. The goal to better the world we live in using the amazing power of technology responsibly.”

Highlighting the impact CFI Teams have had, Mr. Akash Anandan, Student Executive Head, CFI, IIT Madras, said, “Multiple innovations from the CFI community have been accepted and lauded by Government Agencies and private industries/businesses for having tremendous potential to improve lives. The project ‘Eye in the Sky’ leverages autonomous drone usage to help relief and post-disaster surveillance, helping first responders. Another project in the field of computer Vision ‘Textile Quality Analysis’ involves estimating the quality of fabric/textile using images captured from camera. Autonomous Driving in a simulated Environment, Text to Braille Converter, Agricopter, Computer Vision for the Traffic Management, Powered Exoskeleton, and I.O.T. for Air Quality Measurement are among other highlights of this year.”

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Hate speech detection among projects developed by IIT-M students URL: https://www.dtnext.in/News/City/2019/11/03035838/1195403/Hate-speech- detection-among-projects-developed-by-.vpf

Hate speech detection among projects developed by IIT-M students

A release from IIT-Madras said that hate speech detection is about extracting data from popular social media sites and performing sentiment and statistical analysis to obtain the overall sentiment and temperament regarding a particular keyword or tweet and further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

The objective of the autonomous driving in a simulated environment was to train an agent (a car) to navigate through complex traffic scenarios, including dealing with crossings without signals, random pedestrians, slow moving cars and traffic rule violators.

“The images are first segmented to extract information on the lanes, signals and other cars along with in-depth information,” it said.

Following this, control algorithms were used to maintain the cars position in the lane, identify intersections and perform lane changes.

About Text-to Braille Converter, the release said around 285 million people worldwide were visually impaired or sighted. Existing digital Braille reading devices are bulky and expensive and only five per cent of visually impaired people own them. Also, only three per cent of all text content is available in Braille. The major impetus of this CFI project was to provide a viable solution for these hitches and to improve and to economize the existing solutions. The team has engineered a portable Text-to-Braille Interactive Device.

This apart, several teams and clubs that have won international acclaim demonstrated Formula cars, drones and next-generation technologies such as ‘Hyperloop.’

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: Skill Outlook Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Boby George Headline: IIT Madras CFI Students enthrall businesses, industries and the public with their cutting-edge Technologies & Innovations URL: https://skilloutlook.com/alert/iit-madras-cfi-students-enthrall-businesses-industries- and-the-public-with-their-cutting-edge-technologies-innovations

IIT Madras CFI Students enthrall businesses, industries and the public with their cutting- edge Technologies & Innovations

From Formula Cars and Drones to next generation technologies such as ‘Hyperloop,’ several competition teams and clubs that have won international acclaim not only displayed their products but also demonstrated them to the public during this annual flagship event of CFI.

CFI Team Raftar Formula Racing was the only Indian Team which qualified for Formula Student Germany 2018.

Highlighting the importance of CFI, Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras, said,“Centre For Innovation (CFI) at IIT Madras has become the hub of self-actuated student innovation activities at the Institute. Right from the time freshers join the Institute, those with a desire to build and make are provided the ambience and the mentoring by seniors to get their feet wet.”

Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi added, “Many go on to build fantastic machines, algorithms and devices, and some of these efforts have morphed into startups. IIT Madras Teams participate in and win at many international car, robotics, and other such competitions. The annual CFI Open House gives an opportunity for the community, particularly school children, to see the latest projects undertaken, and derive inspiration from them.”A completely student-run platform, CFI was set up with a vision to encourage engineers to apply knowledge from their academic pursuits to ‘innovate’ and propose solutions to real-world problems. Almost a decade since its inception, CFI is now home to ten clubs and fourcompetition teams with over 600 students involved in activities over the year.

Speaking about the work that goes on at CFI, Prof. Boby George, Faculty Advisor, CFI-IIT Madras, said, “The innovation that emerges from CFI is pure magic. Magic because these fantastic ideas are born only out of passion, of a diverse group of enthusiastic young minds, tocome together for a common goal. The goal to better the world we live in using the amazing power of technology responsibly.”

Since its inception, CFI has augmented the ‘tech’ space in the institute. CFI Projects have gone on to produce high-profile startups and internationally acclaimed competition teams apart frombagging laurels at national and international levels. Driven by passion and fuelled byenthusiasm, CFI aims to kindle the spirit of inquiry and foster the spirit of engineering not just inIIT Madras but also in other institutes via mentorship.Four competition teams have represented IIT Madras and the country in international competitions – Raftar Formula Racing, Anveshak (University Rover Challenge), Abhiyaan (Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition) and Avishkar Hyperloop (SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competition).

Further Mr. Akash Anandan added, “To name a few, the project ‘Eye in the Sky’ leverages autonomous drone usage to help relief and post disaster surveillance, helping first responders. Another project in the field of computer Vision ‘Textile Quality Analysis’ involves estimating the quality of fabric/textile using images captured from camera. Autonomous Driving in a Simulated Environment, Text to Braille Converter, Agricopter, Computer Vision for the Traffic Management, Powered Exoskeleton, and I.O.T. for Air Quality Measurement are among other highlights of this year.”

To strengthen the innovation ecosystem within the campus, CFI ensures that a pipeline of potential incubatees is created through a body called ‘ Nirmaan ,’ which seeks out students with ideas that have commercial potential and puts them through a one-year programme to refine the ideas, develop products, and formulate business plans.

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: The Weekend Leader Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M students showcase social media hate speech detection project URL: http://www.theweekendleader.com/Headlines/42163/iit-m-students-showcase- social-media-hatespeech-detection-proj.html

IIT-M students showcase social media hate speech detection project

In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public.

The hate speech detection project is about extracting data from popular social media sites and perform sentiment and statistical analysis on the same to obtain the overall Sentiment and Temperament regarding a particular keyword or tweet.

And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices.

According to IIT-M, the existing digital braille reading devices are bulky and expensive. Only five per cent of visually impaired people own one. Also, only three per cent of all text content is available in braille.

The students team has engineered a portable text-to-braille interactive device.

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: News Gram Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Indian Institute of Technology Madras Showcase Social Media Hate Speech Detection Project. URL: https://www.newsgram.com/indian-institute-technology-madras-showcase-social- media-hate-speech-detection-project/

Indian Institute of Technology Madras Showcase Social Media Hate Speech Detection Project.

Hate speech detection on social media, text-to-braille converter are some of the projects that were showcased by the students of Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) at the Centre For Innnovation (CFI) Open House on Saturday. In a statement issued here, IIT- M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public. The hate speech detection project is about extracting data from popular social media sites and perform sentiment and statistical analysis on the same to obtain the overall Sentiment and Temperament regarding a particular keyword or tweet. And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection. In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public.

Pixabay On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices. According to IIT-M, the existing digital braille reading devices are bulky and expensive. Only five per cent of visually impaired people own one. Also, only three per cent of all text content is available in braille.. Read more at: https://www.newsgram.com/indian-institute-technology-madras-showcase-social- media-hate-speech-detection-project

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: Swiss Cognitive Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras faculty creates novel applications for AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning to solve engineering problems URL: https://swisscognitive.ch/2019/11/02/iit-madras-faculty-creates-novel-applications- for-ai-machine-learning-deep-learning-to-solve-engineering-problems/

IIT Madras faculty creates novel applications for AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning to solve engineering problems

Indian Institute of Technology Madras researchers have developed algorithms that enable novel applications for Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Deep Learning to solve engineering problems. The Researchers are going to establish a startup to deploy their AI Software called ‘AISoft’ to develop solutions to engineering problems in varied fields such as in thermal management, semiconductors, automobile, aerospace and electronic cooling applications.

AI, Machine Learning and Deep Learning are now being used for over a decade but traditionally only in areas such as signal processing, speech recognition, image reconstruction and prediction. Very limited attempts have been made globally in using these algorithms in solving engineering problems such as thermal management, electronic cooling industries, automobile problems like fluid dynamics prediction over a bonnet or inside the engine, aerospace industries like aerodynamics and fluid dynamics problems across an aero-foil or turbine engine.

A team of researchers lead by Dr Vishal Nandigana, Assistant Professor, Fluid Systems Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras, has developed AI and Deep Learning algorithms to solve engineering problems, which they do not solve a physical law to arrive at the solution of the system.

This idea is new and is only has now being looked by a few research groups across the world. Most of these research groups use Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) or C-GAN (conditional generative adversarial network) to solve engineering problems.

Highlighting the unique aspects of these algorithms, Dr Vishal Nandigana said, “We tested AIsoft and used it to solve such thermal management problems. We found it to be nearly million-fold faster compared to existing solutions currently used in the field. Our AI works on any generalized rectilinear and curvilinear input geometry. Our research saves the computational time, which is the bottleneck to solve most engineering problems.”

The Researchers utilised a data-driven AI and a Deep Learning model to arrive at solutions for engineering problems after training the AI with data sets. These prior data sets can be from existing big data in the relevant engineering industry where there are lots of experimental data available. Also, if data is not available for training the AI, it can be generated using commercially-available CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) software on small independent pieces of the full-blown problem.

Further, Dr Vishal Nandigana said, “We are using a novel Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) and Deep Neural Network (DNN) to solve engineering problems. Our AI is grid or mesh independent and does not need information of left and right grid points to solve the grid point of interest. Our AI can work with sparse data sets and solve engineering problems. Our AI stands out in this aspect from commercially available software.”

IIT Madras Researchers have also developed hardware products using GPU and multi- threading processing to solve thermal management problems in thermal and electronic cooling industries. Both the software and hardware products are several times faster than commercial numerical method software and open source software in the market. These algorithms will solve a lot of pressing problems for industries and can also be used for educational purposes.

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Student: Mr. Anirudh Sharma and Ms. K Nisha Headline: IIT-M students showcase lightweight bionic forearm at CFI open house URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/iit-m-students-showcase- lightweight-bionic-forearm-at-cfi-open-house/articleshow/71872533.cms

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Student: Mr. Aksah Anandan and Mr. Mohit Kumar Headline: From agricopters to e-bikes students of IIT Madras showcase innovative products at Open House URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/from-agricopters-to-e-bikes- students-of-iit-madras-showcase-innovative-products-at-open- house/article29866438.ece

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: Dinakaran Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-Madras CFI students to showcase their innovations

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: Daily Thanthi Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras to Host CFI Open House 2019 for Public

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Tamil Edition: Chennai Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras to Host CFI Open House 2019 for Public

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: Telangana Today Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 15 Journalist: NA Headline: Tool to detect Hate Speech

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Hindustan Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras pupils showcase social media hate speech detection project URL: https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/iit-madras-pupils-showcase-social- media-hate-speech-detection-project/story-8dpEwrcCope8IRusAili1H.html

IIT Madras pupils showcase social media hate speech detection project

In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public.

And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices.

The students team has engineered a portable text-to-braille interactive device.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: UNI Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Boby George Headline: From formula cars to drones, IIT-M students demonstrate cutting edge innovation URL: http://www.uniindia.com/from-formula-cars-to-drones-iit-m-students-demonstrate- cutting-edge-innovations/south/news/1777571.html

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Hate speech detection among projects developed by IIT-M students URL: https://www.dtnext.in/News/City/2019/11/03035838/1195403/Hate-speech- detection-among-projects-developed-by-.vpf

Hate speech detection among projects developed by IIT-M students

“The images are first segmented to extract information on the lanes, signals and other cars along with in-depth information,” it said.

Following this, control algorithms were used to maintain the cars position in the lane, identify intersections and perform lane changes.

This apart, several teams and clubs that have won international acclaim demonstrated Formula cars, drones and next-generation technologies such as ‘Hyperloop.’

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: India Education Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Boby George Student: Mr. Akash Anandan Headline: IIT Madras CFI Students enthral businesses, industries and the public with their cutting-edge Technologies & Innovations URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/iit-madras-cfi-students-enthral-businesses-industries- and-the-public-with-their-cutting-edge-technologies-innovations/

IIT Madras CFI Students enthral businesses, industries and the public with their cutting- edge Technologies & Innovations

Four competition teams have represented IIT Madras and the country in international competitions – Raftar Formula Racing, Anveshak (University Rover Challenge), Abhiyaan (Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition) and Avishkar Hyperloop (SpaceX Hyperloop Pod Competition).

Some of the projects demonstrated during CFI Open House 2019 include:

Ø AUTONOMOUS DRIVING IN A SIMULATED ENVIRONMENT: The objective is to use a simulated environment to train an agent (a car) to navigate through complex traffic scenarios including dealing with crossings without signals, random pedestrians, slow moving cars and traffic rule breakers. The images are first segmented to extract information on the lanes, signals and other cars, along with depth information. Following this, control algorithms are used to maintain the cars position in the lane, identify intersections and perform lane changes.

Ø HATE SPEECH DETECTION: Extracting data from popular social media sites and perform sentiment and statistical analysis on the same to obtain the overall Sentiment and Temperament regarding a particular keyword or tweet. And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

Ø TEXT-TO-BRAILLE CONVERTER: Around 285 Million people worldwide are visually impaired or Sighted. Existing digital Braille reading devices are bulky and expensive – only 5% of visually impaired people own one. Also, only 3% of all text content is available in Braille. The major impetus of this CFI project is to provide a viable solution for these hitches and to improve and to economize the existing solutions. The team has engineered a portable Text-to-Braille Interactive Device

The Centre For Innovation (CFI) has been the source for ideas that have gone on to become successful startups. Some such startups that came from CFI include

1. Ather Energy: is a start-up building India’s first Smart Electric Scooter, the S340. The Ather S340 has a touch screen dashboard connected to the cloud, host of smart features and offers a top speed of 72 kmph. The scooter is designed in-house by Ather and will be manufactured in India. 2. LeanAgri: is developing a unique algorithm named LeanNutri that provides a season- long calendar for the farmer. This calendar is personalized after collecting 20+ parameters from the farm. The calendar specifies step by step action to be taken by farmer based on scientific principles in order to increase farm yields and incomes.

3. HyperVerge Inc: is a Silicon Valley based deep-learning start-up funded by NEA, Millyways Ventures and Naya Ventures. HyperVerge has developed patent-pending technology for real-time analysis of images and videos obtained from satellite images, CCTV feeds, documents & industries.

4. Foldable House: A house which can be folded and taken anywhere. The simple and novel design makes the foldable house a great fit in many markets where instant housing is required. When used at its fullest potential can cater to huge markets like construction, defence and military and refugee housing.

5. Planys Technologies: provides submersible robotic inspection and survey solutions using Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). Planys brings world class technology and cutting- edge innovations in underwater robotics and diagnostics in the shallow-mid depth segment. Planys’ technology spans the domains of marine robotics, advanced Non- Destructive Evaluation (NDE), and post-inspection analysis.

6. Airwood is a full-stack agri production management and data sciences company. Airwood helps farmers, FPOs, aggregators and agri-entrepreneurs realize the full potential of their farms. They work towards creating solutions meant for uplifting farmers and farming as a whole, and profit from the performance and financials of the farm.

7. Lema Labs: strives to build an ecosystem for emerging technologies by providing support to stakeholders which includes student community, educational institutions and the industry.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: The Indian Wire Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M students showcase social media hatespeech detection proj URL: https://www.theindianwire.com/ians/iit-m-students-showcase-social-media- hatespeech-detection-proj-217836/

IIT-M students showcase social media hatespeech detection proj

And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices.

The students team has engineered a portable text-to-braille interactive device.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: India Education Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi and Prof. Boby George Student: Mr. Akash Anandan Headline: IIT Madras CFI Students enthral businesses, industries and the public with their cutting-edge Technologies & Innovations URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/iit-madras-cfi-students-enthral-businesses-industries- and-the-public-with-their-cutting-edge-technologies-innovations/

IIT Madras CFI Students enthral businesses, industries and the public with their cutting- edge Technologies & Innovations

Some of the projects demonstrated during CFI Open House 2019 include:

The Centre For Innovation (CFI) has been the source for ideas that have gone on to become successful startups. Some such startups that came from CFI include

7. Lema Labs: strives to build an ecosystem for emerging technologies by providing support to stakeholders which includes student community, educational institutions and the industry.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: News Gram Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Indian Institute of Technology Madras Showcase Social Media Hate Speech Detection Projects URL: https://www.newsgram.com/indian-institute-technology-madras-showcase-social- media-hate-speech-detection-project

Indian Institute of Technology Madras Showcase Social Media Hate Speech Detection Projects

And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection. In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public. Pixabay On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices. According to IIT-M, the existing digital braille reading devices are bulky and expensive. Only five per cent of visually impaired people own one. Also, only three per cent of all text content is available in braille.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Valliant News Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Kerala engineering entrance toppers set to join IIT URL: https://valliantnews.com/2019/11/03/kerala-engineering-entrance-toppers-set-to- join-iit/

Kerala engineering entrance toppers set to join IIT

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Silicon India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M students Showcase Social Media Hatespeech Detection Project URL: https://news.siliconindia.com/technology/IITM-students-Showcase-Social-Media- Hatespeech-Detection-Project-nid-210798-cid-2.html

IIT-M students Showcase Social Media Hatespeech Detection Project

In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public.

And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices.

The students team has engineered a portable text-to-braille interactive device.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Eastern Mirror Nagaland Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Social media hate speech detection project showcase URL: https://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/

Social media hate speech detection project showcase

In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public.

And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices.

The students team has engineered a portable text-to-braille interactive device.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: New Kerla Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M students showcase social media hatespeech detection proj URL: https://www.newkerala.com/news/read/240020/iit-m-students-showcase-social- media-hatespeech-detection-proj.html

IIT-M students showcase social media hatespeech detection proj

In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public.

And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices.

The students team has engineered a portable text-to-braille interactive device.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: The News Now Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M students showcase social media hatespeech detection proj URL: http://www.thenewsnow.co.in/newsdet.aspx?q=93005

IIT-M students showcase social media hatespeech detection proj

In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public.

And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices.

The students team has engineered a portable text-to-braille interactive device.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Daily Hunt Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M students showcase social media hate speech detection project URL: https://m.dailyhunt.in/news/india/english/news+karnataka-epaper- newskarn/iit+m+students+showcase+social+media+hate+speech+detection+project- newsid-145242726

IIT-M students showcase social media hate speech detection project

In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public.

On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices.

The students' team has engineered a portable text-to-braille interactive device.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Orlando Indian Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M students showcase social media hatespeech detection proj URL: https://www.orlandoindian.com/desi/newsdetail.asp?id=487595

IIT-M students showcase social media hatespeech detection proj

In a statement issued here, IIT-M said the students from CFI showcased some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public.

And further enhancing the solution with hate speech detection.

On the other hand, the text-to-braille converter provides a viable solution for the problems faced in using the existing devices.

The students team has engineered a portable text-to-braille interactive device.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Telangana Today Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 4 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Vishal Nandigana Headline: IIT-M develops ‘AlSoft to solve engg problems URL: https://telanganatoday.com/iit-madras-develops-aisoft-to-solve-engineering- problems

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Tech Sutram Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Vishal Nandigana Headline: IIT Madras creates applications for AI, ML to solve Engineering Problems URL: https://www.techsutram.com/2019/11/iit-madras-applications-for-ai-ml-aisoft- algorithms.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+t echsutram+(TechSutram)&m=1

IIT Madras creates applications for AI, ML to solve Engineering Problems

The researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras(IIT – M), have now developed algorithms that enable the novel application for Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Artificial Intelligence to solve engineering problems, Economic Times reported recently.

The research is led by Dr. Vishal Nandigana, who is an assistant professor – fluid system laboratory, department of mechanical engineering at IIT-Madras.

According to the report, Mr. Nandigana revealed that their deep learning and AI algorithms solve a wide range of problems in numerous engineering fields, which includes aerospace, semiconductors, automobile, electronics, thermal management, cooling applications, among others, thus eliminating manual intervention.

The team has named their AI software as "AISoft" and planning to establish a startup for its first deployment.

In the past, AI, deep learning, ML were being used in areas such as speech recognition, image recognition, signal processing, and prediction.

Moreover, very limited attempts have been made across the globe in using this technology in solving engineering problems such as the electronics cooling industries, thermal management, and automobile issues like the prediction of the fluid dynamic over a bonnet, or even inside the engine and more.

Executive Opinion

The same ET report quoted Assistant Professor, Fluid Systems Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Vishal Nandigana, "We tested AISoft and used it to solve such thermal management problems. We found it to be nearly million-fold faster compared to existing solutions currently used in the field. Our AI works on any generalized rectilinear and curvilinear input geometry. Our research saves the computational time, which is the bottleneck to solve most engineering problems."

Artificial Intelligence and IIT-Madras Developments

With respect to the commercial market, the team also claims to have developed software and hardware products. These products are industry agnostic and data-centric. Also these products can be used to solve complex engineering problems as compared to other software and tools in the market.

The report also suggested that lots of pressing problems for the industries can be solved with the latest newly introduced algorithms. Further, these algorithms can also be used for the purpose of education.

In the month of August 2019, IIT-Madras incubated two startups named One-Fourth Labs and Guvi and pledged to create around one lacs experts in then ML and AI by the end of 2020 via a joint venture, which focuses more on training the Indian students, engineers, and faculty.

Recently, Freshworks has partnered with the Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence in the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-M), to improve the predictive capability of its CRM software.

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: News 7 Tamil News Channel Edition: Electronic Journalist: Mr. Ramakrishnan Professor: Prof M.S. Sivakumar Student: Ms. Himani, Mr. Mahesh Balasubramani Headline: ஆழ்鏁னளக் 垿ணற்잿ல் ힿ폁ந்த 埁ழந்னதகனள 므ட்க வ쏁垿ற鏁 ꯁ鎿ய றராறபா (New robot coming to save children from borewells) URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUgsfexvtbo&feature=youtu.be

ஆழ்鏁னளக் 垿ணற்잿ல் ힿ폁ந்த 埁ழந்னதகனள 므ட்க வ쏁垿ற鏁 ꯁ鎿ய றராறபா

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Polimer News Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras CFI Open House URL to download: https://we.tl/t-IAEUzMJXIh

IIT Madras CFI Open House

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Lotus News Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras CFI Open House URL to download: https://we.tl/t-IAEUzMJXIh

IIT Madras CFI Open House

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: DD Podhigai Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras CFI Open House URL to download: https://we.tl/t-IAEUzMJXIh

IIT Madras CFI Open House

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: Sun News Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras CFI Open House URL to download: https://we.tl/t-IAEUzMJXIh

IIT Madras CFI Open House

Date: 3rd November 2019 Publication: Thanthi TV Edition: Electronic Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras CFI Open House URL to download: https://we.tl/t-IAEUzMJXIh

IIT Madras CFI Open House

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Indian Institute of Technology Madras and Phoenix medical system

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Dina Thanthi Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras showcase innovative products at Open House

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Voice Data Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Innovating solutions for real-word problems, IIT Madras’ budding innovators do it right! URL:https://www.voicendata.com/innovating-solutions-real-word-problems-iit-madras- budding-innovators-right/

Innovating solutions for real-word problems, IIT Madras’ budding innovators do it right! It was a showcase par excellence. A good mix of enthusiastic boys and girls were behind very simple machines to very complex machines that were thoughtfully innovated to solve real-world issues.

This showcase was at Indian Institute of Technology Madras. The students of the Centre for Innovation (CFI) of the prestigious institution displayed some of their cutting-edge innovations and technologies to the public on 2nd November 2019 during CFI Open House 2019.

From simple machines for disposing menstrual waste; cleaning of the river beds with a specially designed equipment; 3D-printing chocolate machines; augmented reality- based device scanner and to extra-terrestrial rovers; hyperloop pods; drones; agricopters; e-bikes and autonomous vehicles, it was a display that projected several path-breaking innovations making India realize its MAKE IN INDIA plan a road to success.

Exploiting next-generation technologies to make Rovers, Formula Cars, Drones and Hyperloops, the display intrigued and stunned the young and old visitors to the exhibition. Several competition teams and clubs that have won international acclaim not only displayed their products but also demonstrated them to the public.

CFI proudly admits that it has produced teams that have made waves globally. CFI Team Avishkar Hyperloop was the only Team from Asia to be among the top 22 teams, shortlisted from over 1,600 entries worldwide, to qualify for the finals of 2019 Hyperloop Pod Competition organized by SpaceX. CFI Team Raftar Formula Racing was the only Indian Team which qualified for Formula Student Germany 2018.

Avishkar Hyperloop is the student team from IIT-M, working on an indigenous design, first- ever self-propelled, completely autonomous Hyperloop Pod in India.

A completely student-run platform, CFI was set up with a vision to encourage engineers to apply knowledge from their academic pursuits to innovate and propose solutions to real-world problems. Almost a decade since its inception, CFI is now home to ten clubs and four competition teams with over 600 students involved in activities over the year.

Further Akash Anandan added, “To name a few, the project ‘Eye in the Sky’ leverages autonomous drone usage to help relief and post-disaster surveillance, helping first responders. Another project in the field of computer Vision ‘Textile Quality Analysis’ involves estimating the quality of fabric/textile using images captured from the camera. Autonomous Driving in a Simulated Environment, Text to Braille Converter, Agricopter, Computer Vision for the Traffic Management, Powered Exoskeleton, and I.O.T. for Air Quality Measurement are among other highlights of this year.”

A few projects that caught Voice&Data’s interest demonstrated at the CFI Open House 2019:

Text-To-Braille Converter: Around 285 million people worldwide are visually impaired or sighted. Existing digital Braille reading devices are bulky and expensive – only 5% of visually impaired people own one. Also, only 3% of all text content is available in Braille. The major impetus of this CFI project is to provide a viable solution for these hitches and to improve and to economize the existing solutions. The team has engineered a portable Text-to-Braille Interactive Device.

It was known at the event that since its inception in 2016, Nirmaan has brought out many start-ups into the world market. This year three project teams from CFI- Agricopter, UAVs for Disaster Management and Dbyt Dynamics have been inducted into Nirmaan.

Highlighting the importance of CFI, Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras, said, “Centre For Innovation (CFI) at IIT Madras has become the hub of self-actuated student innovation activities at the Institute. Right from the time freshers join the Institute, those with a desire to build and make are provided with the ambience and the mentoring by seniors to get their feet wet.”

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: The Telegraph Edition: Kolkata Page No: 13 Journalist: NA Student: Mr. Ayush Headline: Drone to the rescue

Date:10th November 2019 Publication:Deccan Chronicle Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras start up launches range of Smart air purifiers URL: https://www.deccanchronicle.com/technology/gadgets/091119/iit-madras-startup-launches-range-of-smart-air-purifiers.html

IIT Madras start up launches range of Smart air purifiers

Smart air purifiers, these offer Wi-Fi & cloud connectivity, along with an area coverage between 15m2 to 104m2.

IIT Madras incubated cleantech start-up, AirOk Technologies has launched its range of Vistar air purifiers. Coming with EGAPA (Efficient Granular Adsorbent Particulate Arrester) Comfort filter, these can make spaces a lot healthier after absorbing aerial elements, claims AirOk.

These provide coverage for an area between 15m2 to 104m2. However, AirOk has tried to make it as flexible as possible with Uni-Touch Interface, low noise generation and a glass finish. Smart air purifiers, these offer Wi-Fi & cloud connectivity, and users can also control the functions via a mobile app with ease.

Vistar Comfort air purifiers demand low maintenance with filter replacement in every 8- 12 months, this depending upon the Carbon Dioxide (CO2) concentration levels.

These shall retail at a price between Rs 25,000 to Rs 2 lakhs, and are currently available at offline stores only.

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Chronicle Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras start up launches range of Smart air purifiers URL: https://www.deccanchronicle.com/technology/gadgets/091119/iit-madras-startup-launches-range-of-smart-air-purifiers.html

IIT Madras start up launches range of Smart air purifiers

Vistar Comfort air purifiers demand low maintenance with filter replacement in every 8- 12 months, this depending upon the Carbon Dioxide (CO2) concentration levels

These shall retail at a price between Rs 25,000 to Rs 2 lakhs, and are currently available at offline stores only.

Miscellaneous News

Date: 31st October 2019 Publication: Dinamani Edition: Online Faculty: Prof. Satyanarayanan Seshadri Headline: சேன்னன ஐஐ羿 மாணவா்களின் ꯁ鎿ய கண்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁகள் : சபா鏁மக்கள் பாா்னவ뾿ட நானள ம쟁நாள் அꟁம鎿 (IIT Madras students new inventions: Public to be allowed to see them day after tomorrow) URL: https://bit.ly/2Pzu4nC

சேன்னன ஐஐ羿 மாணவா்களின் ꯁ鎿ய கண்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁகள் : சபா鏁மக்கள் பாா்னவ뾿ட நானள ம쟁நாள் அꟁம鎿 (IIT Madras students new inventions: Public to be allowed to see them day after tomorrow)

சென்மன ஐஐ羿 ைாைவா்களின் ꯁ鎿ய கை்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁகமளப் பாா்மவ뾿ட சபா鏁ைக்க쿁க்埁 ெனிக்垿ழமை (நவ.2) அꟁை鎿 அளிக்கப்பட உள்ள鏁.

சென்மன ஐஐ羿-뾿ன் ꯁ鎿ய கை்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁக்கான மையை் (殿.எஃப்.ஐ.) இந்தக் கை்காட்殿க்埁 ஏற்பா翁 செய்鏁ள்ள鏁. இந்த மையத்鎿ல் 600-க்埁ை் அ鎿கைான ைாைவா்கள் ꯁ鎿ய கை்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁகமள뿁ை் ஆராய்ெ்殿கமள뿁ை் லைற்சகாை்翁 வ쏁垿ன்றனா்.

இவா்களின் ெ므பத்鎿ய ꯁ鎿ய கை்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁகள் , இப்லபா鏁 காட்殿ப் ப翁த்தப்பட உள்ளன. இவற்மற சபா鏁ைக்கள் பாா்மவ뾿ட ெனிக்垿ழமை ைாமல 4 ைைி 믁தல் இரퟁ 7 ைைி வமர அꟁை鎿க்கப்ப翁வா். இமதக் காை ힿ쏁ை்ꯁபவா்கள் இமையதளத்鎿ல் 믁ன்ப鎿ퟁ செய்வ鏁டன் , அர毁 ொா்ꮿல் வழங்கப்பட்ட ꯁமகப்படத்鏁டன் 埂羿ய அமடயாள அட்மடமய뿁ை் எ翁த்鏁 வரலவை்翁ை்.

இ鏁埁잿த்鏁殿.எஃப்.ஐ. ஆலலாெகா் லபரா殿ரியா் ெத்யநாராயைன் ொஸ்鎿ரி 埂잿뾿쏁ப்பதாவ鏁:

믁ன்னாள் ைாைவா்களின் நி鎿யதힿ ைற்쟁ை் 埂ட்翁 믁யற்殿뾿ன் காரைைாக ꯁ鎿ய கை்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁக்கான மையை் கடந்த 10 ஆை்翁களில் 殿றப்பான வளா்ெ்殿மயக் கை்翁ள்ள鏁. 600-க்埁ை் அ鎿கைான ைாைவா்கமளக் சகாை்ட 10 垿ளப்ꯁக쿁ை், பல்லவ쟁 ஆராய்ெ்殿 லபாட்羿களில் பங்லகற்கக்埂羿ய 4 埁폁க்க쿁ை் இந்த மையத்鎿ல் இயங்垿 வ쏁垿ன்றன. இவா்களின் கை்翁ꮿ羿ப்ꯁகள் இந்鎿ய அளힿல் ைட்翁뮿ன்잿, ொ்வலதெ அளힿலான லபாட்羿களி쯁ை் பங்லகற்쟁 ힿ쏁鏁கமளப் சபற்쟁ள்ளன எனத் சதரிힿத்鏁ள்ளாா்.

Date: 1st November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Mumbai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Tuneful prelude at IIT

Date: 1st November 2019 Publication: Navbharat Times Edition: Delhi Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Headline: Metropolitan sports

Date: 1st November 2019 Publication: News 18 Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: GATE 2020: IIT Delhi Reopens Application Process for J&K Region at gate.iitd.ac.in, Apply by Nov 8 URL: https://www.news18.com/news/india/gate-2020-iit-delhi-reopens-application- process-for-jammu-and-kashmir-at-gate-iitd-ac-in-apply-by-nov-8-

GATE 2020: IIT Delhi Reopens Application Process for J&K Region at gate.iitd.ac.in, Apply by Nov 8

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi has started GATE 2020 application process for Jammu and Kashmir candidates only. The registration link for GATE 2020 application process was activated by Delhi IIT on its official website at gate.iitd.ac.in. Candidates, belonging to the Jammu and Kashmir region, who were unable to fill in the application form are requested to do so by visiting the IIT’s official website to register for GATE 2020.

The last date to apply for GATE 2020 is November 8. The GATE 2020 or Graduate Aptitude

Test in Engineering, 2020 will be held on February 1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th. The GATE 2020

Result will be declared on March 16. Candidates are advised to go through the official notification carefully before filling the online application form for GATE 2020. Further, candidates can read GATE 2020 notification here. The official notification released by IIT reads, "Attention J&K candidates: The application portal is open for candidates from J&K from 30th October to 8th November."

Candidates must follow the below-listed steps fill the application form for GATE 2020

Step 1: Log on to the official website at gate.iitd.ac.in

Step 2: Look for on ‘GATE 2020 online application portal click here for Jammu and

Kashmir’

Step 3: Click on ‘Graduate Aptitude Test Engineering 2020 register here’

Step 4: Register yourself as new user

Step 5: Fill all the details, upload required documents including photo, mark sheets and other documents Step 6: Click on Submit

Step 7: Download GATE 202 application form and keep a printout for future use

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is an examination conducted jointly by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore and the seven Indian Institutes of

Technology (at Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Madras and Roorkee) on behalf of the National Coordination Board (NCB)-GATE, Department of Higher Education,

Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India.

Date: 2nd October 2019 Publication: Amar Ujala Edition: Delhi Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Headline: Space technology cell will soon open in IIT with the help of ISRO

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Rashtriya Sahara Edition: Delhi Page No: 8 Journalist: NA Headline: Space technology sale will soon open in IIT with the help of ISRO

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Delhi to set up space technology cell in collaboration with ISRO URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/iit-delhi-to-set-up-space-technology- cell-in-collaboration-with-isro/article29852973.ece

IIT Delhi to set up space technology cell in collaboration with ISRO

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) here is going to set up a space technology cell in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The announcement was made on Friday by IIT Delhi Director V. Ramgopal Rao, a day ahead of the varsity’s 50th annual convocation where ISRO Chief K. Sivan will be the chief guest.

“IIT Delhi is going to set up a space technology centre in collaboration with ISRO to contribute to the space technology research,” Mr. Rao told reporters.

With the move, IIT Delhi will join the league of other premiere institutions like IISc Bangalore, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Madras, IIT Guwahati and IIT Roorkee where the Space Technology Cells (STCs) have been set up to play a major role in taking up the space technology research and applications to the newer heights.

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: India Today Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Delhi to set up space technology cell in collaboration with ISRO URL: https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/news/story/iit-delhi-to-set-up-space- technology-cell-in-collaboration-with-isro-1614842-2019-11-01

IIT Delhi to set up space technology cell in collaboration with ISRO he Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) here is going to set up a space technology cell in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The announcement was made on Friday by IIT Delhi Director V Ramgopal Rao, a day ahead of the varsity's 50th annual convocation where ISRO Chief K Sivan will be the chief guest.

"IIT Delhi is going to set up a space technology centre in collaboration with ISRO to contribute to the space technology research," Rao told reporters. Which other major institutes have space technology cells? With the move, IIT Delhi will join the league of other premiere institutions like IISc Bangalore, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Madras, IIT Guwahati and IIT Roorkee where the Space Technology Cells (STCs) have been set up to play a major role in taking up the space technology research and applications to the newer heights.

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Hindustan Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Delhi collaborates with ISRO to set up space technology cell URL: https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/iit-delhi-collaborates-with-isro-to-set- up-space-technology-cell/story-9Hkx7A4nhuGOgJyYjg755I.html

IIT Delhi collaborates with ISRO to set up space technology cell

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) here is going to set up a space technology cell in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The announcement was made on Friday by IIT Delhi Director V Ramgopal Rao, a day ahead of the varsity’s 50th annual convocation where ISRO Chief K Sivan will be the chief guest.

“IIT Delhi is going to set up a space technology centre in collaboration with ISRO to contribute to the space technology research,” Rao told reporters.

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Gadgets Now Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Delhi partners with ISRO for space technology cell URL: https://www.gadgetsnow.com/tech-news/iit-delhi-partners-with-isro-for-space- technology-cell/articleshow/71854520.cms

IIT Delhi partners with ISRO for space technology cell

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Jagran Josh Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Delhi to collaborate with ISRO to set up Space Technology Cell URL: https://www.jagranjosh.com/news/iit-delhi-to-collaborate-with-isro-to-set-up- space-technology-cell-152095

IIT Delhi to collaborate with ISRO to set up Space Technology Cell

The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi is preparing to join hands with the Indian Space Research Organisation to set up a space technology cell. V Ramgopal Rao, Director, IIT Delhi made the announcement a day prior to the institute’s 50th annual convocation. ISRO Chief, K Sivan is the Chief Guest for the upcoming occasion. The collaboration is the joint effort of the organizations involved to make substantial contributions to space technology research.

This important move made by IIT Delhi will allow it to join the league of other premier institutions like IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, IISc Bangalore, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Guwahati, IIT Madras and IIT Roorkee where the Space Technology Cells (STCs) have already been set up. These cells are to play a major role in taking up space technology research and applications to a different level altogether.

IIT Delhi recently has also launched the Global Alumni Endowment Fund today jointly arranged by alumni of the institute. The fund has an initial commitment of Rs 255 crores. Of the total amount committed for the fund, an amount of Rs 125 crore will be contributed by Binny Bansal and Sachin Bansal, co-founders of the e-commerce platform Flipkart; both of whom are also alumni of the institute. The rest of the amount is contributed by other noted alumni off the premier technology institute. The institute plans on expanding the Endowment Fund to USD Billion by 2025.

Developed on the lines of globally renowned universities such as Harvard, the Alumni Endowment Fund is meant to provide a major source of income for the institute. It will also allow the organization to offer scholarships and develop infrastructure as per the contemporary needs of the students.

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Kochi Page No: 4 Journalist: NA Headline: Raja Ramanna Fellowship for A. Jayakrishnan

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 4 Journalist: Swati Rathor Alumni: Ms. Mythreyi and Mr. Suresh Headline: STartoon Labs Pheezee makes physiotherapy easy for docs

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: The Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 1 Journalist: Vaishali Vijayakumar Headline: Ancient wisdom goes global

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Life 365 Edition: Pune Page No: 10 Journalist: NA Alumni: Ms. Shashanka Headline: IIT graduates switched careers to blaze ail alternate path!

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: The Times of India - Chennai Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Prof Mahesh Panchagnula Headline: International students of IIT Madras whip up global food URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/international-students-of-iit- madras-whip-up-global-food/articleshow/71863980.cms

Date: 1st November 2019 Publication: Caravan Edition: Magazine Page No: 30 Journalist: NA Headline: Freedom to eat

Date: 26th October 2019 Publication: Economic and Political weekly Edition: Magazine Page No: 20 Journalist: NA Headline: Stares of the Blind Neglected Facet of Human Bonding

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Assam Tribune Edition: Guwahati Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Headline: Awareness generated on avenues of employment

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Yashobhoomi Edition: Mumbai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Delhi to set up space technology cell

Date: 2nd November 2019 Publication: Nyoooz Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Ancient wisdom goes global URL: https://www.nyoooz.com/news/chennai/1413969/ancient-wisdom-goes-global/

Ancient wisdom goes global

Knowledge sharingA part of Edsix Brainlab, Magical 7 Studios has come up with a series of animated videos to take pearls of ancient wisdom interspersed with basic life skills to children around the world. “Our initiative to take life skills to children is invested and supported by IIT-Madras and co-invested by IIM-Ahmedabad. We have created characters for our video content and copyrighted it,” said Saravanan Sundaramoorthy, CEO of Magical 7 Studios. The International Thirukkural Foundation in Mauritius — founded by Aroomugam Parasuramen — is partnering with Magical 7 Studios in this initiative. Watch the series at Magical 7 Studios’ YouTube channel.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Nav Shakti Edition: Mumbai Page No: 4 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Sakal Times Edition: Pune Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: India and Germany will contribute €3.5 mn each

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Hindustan Times Edition: Delhi Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Headline: Does odd-even rationing help? Past studies differ

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Herald Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Chennai: 'Red Atlas Map' unveiled for flood mitigation URL: https://www.deccanherald.com/national/chennai-red-atlas-map-unveiled-for- flood-mitigation-773169.html

Chennai: 'Red Atlas Map' unveiled for flood mitigation

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Devdiscourse Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: 'Red Atlas Map' unveiled for flood mitigation in Chennai URL: https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/national/730689-red-atlas-map-unveiled- for-flood-mitigation-in-chennai

'Red Atlas Map' unveiled for flood mitigation in Chennai Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday unveiled the 'Red Atlas Action Plan Map,' a first of its kind ready reckoner, prepared by the Ministry of Earth Sciences to aid Tamil Nadu government ineffective flood mitigation in Chennai which witnessed the worst deluge in 2015. The atlas, with probable scenarios for different rainfall periods, aims at flood mitigation, preparedness, operations, and management aspects, official sources told PTI.

The manual provides information, including on corporation wards that are likely to be affected due to flooding, and the areas that may need evacuation in Chennai taking into account all historical datasets. Both the atlas and the 'Coastal Flood Warning System App (CFLOWS-Chennai)', which was launched by the Vice-President are intended as decision support systems covering aspects, including preparedness and prevention.

The CFLOWS-Chennai is a complete webGIS-based decision support system that can be used both for mitigation planning operations before flooding and in real time to for aspects like relief work. Such initiatives to effectively tackle urban flooding are likely to be replicated in cities including Mumbai, according to officials.

CFLOWS is an integrated system that involves coupling models of regional weather forecasts, storm surges and captures about 796 flood scenarios. The over 200-page atlas was prepared by the National Centre for Coastal Research, India Meteorological Department and National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting in association with TN State Disaster Management Authority and Greater Chennai Corporation.

Also, the office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the government of India, IIT Madras, IIT-Bombay and the Institute of Remote Sensing of the Anna University participated from the academia.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: 'Red Atlas Map' unveiled for flood mitigation in Chennai URL: https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/red-atlas-map-unveiled-for- flood-mitigation-in-chennai-119110300762_1.html

'Red Atlas Map' unveiled for flood mitigation in Chennai

Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday unveiled the 'Red Atlas Action Plan Map,' a first of its kind ready reckoner, prepared by the Ministry of Earth Sciences to aid Tamil Nadu government in effective flood mitigation in Chennai which witnessed the worst deluge in 2015.

The atlas, with probable scenarios for different rainfall periods, aims at flood mitigation, preparedness, operations and management aspects, official sources told PTI.

Both the atlas and the 'Coastal Flood Warning System App (CFLOWS-Chennai)', which was launched by the Vice-President are intended as decision support systems covering aspects, including preparedness and prevention.

The CFLOWS-Chennai is a complete webGIS-based decision support system that can be used both for mitigation planning operations before flooding and in real time to for aspects like relief work.

Such initiatives to effectively tackle urban flooding are likely to be replicated in cities including Mumbai, according to officials.

CFLOWS is an integrated system that involves coupling models of regional weather forecasts, storm surges and captures about 796 flood scenarios.

The over 200-page atlas was prepared by the National Centre for Coastal Research, India Meteorological Department and National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting in association with TN State Disaster Management Authority and Greater Chennai Corporation.

Also, the office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the government of India, IIT Madras, IIT-Bombay and the Institute of Remote Sensing of the Anna University participated from the academia.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Outlook Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Red alts-Chennai Floods URL: https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/tnred-atlaschennai-floods/1654527

Red alts-Chennai Floods Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday unveiled the 'Red Atlas Action Plan Map,' a first of its kind ready reckoner, prepared by the Ministry of Earth Sciences to aid Tamil Nadu government in effective flood mitigation in Chennai which witnessed the worst deluge in 2015.

The atlas, with probable scenarios for different rainfall periods, aims at flood mitigation, preparedness, operations and management aspects, official sources told PTI.

The CFLOWS-Chennai is a complete webGIS-based decision support system that can be used both for mitigation planning operations before flooding and in real time to for aspects like relief work.

Such initiatives to effectively tackle urban flooding are likely to be replicated in cities including Mumbai, according to officials.

CFLOWS is an integrated system that involves coupling models of regional weather forecasts, storm surges and captures about 796 flood scenarios.

Also, the office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the government of India, IIT Madras, IIT-Bombay and the Institute of Remote Sensing of the Anna University participated from the academia.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: MIG Edition: Online Journalist: NA Research Scholar: Ms. Shyani Das Headline: hakuntala Devi: the face of mental calculations in India Celebrating 90 years of the human computer URL: https://mediaindia.eu/social-vibes/shakuntala-devi-the-face-of-mental- calculations-in-india/ hakuntala Devi: the face of mental calculations in India Celebrating 90 years of the human computer

Born on November 4, 1929, in Bengaluru, in the southwestern Indian state of Karnataka, Shakuntala Devi was a world-renowned Indian mathematician and a calculating genius. Thanks to her extraordinary skills in solving the complex out of arithmetical problems without any mechanical aid, she earned the nickname ‘Human Computer’.

Her father who had run away from home to become a circus performer was the one to plant the love for numbers in Shakuntala’s brain at a very young age with the help of card tricks. Over the years, the strengthening of her calculating skills led her to become a prodigy in the world of mental arithmetic. Her excellence was shown globally in a number of institutions. Owing to her brilliant mind, Shakuntala could do addition, multiplication, division, calculation of square and cube roots and Vedic math at the tip of her fingers, challenging even the fastest of the computers of the time.

Devi won the title of Distinguished Women of The Year in 1969 by the University of Philippines. She was also honoured with the Ramanujan Mathematical Genius Award in 1988 in Washington DC. The most astonishing achievement of hers till date is the multiplication of two 13-digit numbers: ‘7,686,369,774,870 x 2,465,099,745,779’, at the Imperial College in London, where she got the answer in just 28 seconds fetching her name in the 1982 edition of The Guinness Book of World Records.

Her achievements were not just limited to the domain of mathematics only. After discovering her husbands homosexual identity, the reaction of which could have been an extreme state of homophobia, Shakuntala instead researched about the plight of the gay community in India leading her to her write a book called The World of Homosexuals in 1977. The book being way too ahead of its time, helped the struggles of the homosexual community grab eyeballs during the 70s and the 80s when the concept was not at all talked about. Till today, it is considered as one of the most profound and comprehensive study on homosexuality in India.

The entire life of Shakuntala Devi which was nothing but an effort to crumble arithmophobia and homophobia is now being made in a biopic starring Vidya Balan and Sanya Malhotra. Devi also wrote a book on astrology titled Astrology for You, where she explained the importance and impact of zodiacs, planets, asterisms etc. in a very simple way. Her love for numbers was such that she could give the 23rd root of a 201 digit number in 50 seconds, which compelled the US Bureau of Standards to write a special programme into a UNIVAC 1101 computer just to check her answer.

However, producing exceptional math prodigies has not done any good to the young students studying the subject in Indian schools.

The growing state of arithmophobia in India

In spite of having an arithmetical lineage which goes back to the time of Aryabhatta, the one who brought zero into the world, there has been a decline in the number of student opting for mathematics for their higher studies in recent years. The result of all this is evidently a drop in the number of math teachers in India which has about 1.3 million schools and around 800 universities.

“Mathematics especially in India is a subject which people get scared of. This myth begins at a very early age in a student’s life. With age, the conceptuality of mathematics increases. Examinations at first make this subject more fearful. Not everyone can come up with a solution within a given time limit. Mathematics needs to be appreciated for what it is and the idea should not be to just score marks. It gets even more complicated in high school, where students have to comprehend so many things in such a less time. Thus, opting for higher studies in mathematics only cuts down to students who have developed inexplicable love for the subject,” Chirantan Chowdhury, a PhD student at University of Duisburg-Essen tells Media India Group.

The state of arithmophobia is typically triggered during school examinations and homework or simply an invitation from the teacher to solve a problem on the blackboard. It is specifically the children who seem to be unable to deal with this so-called bogey. This has been confirmed by yet another survey which was conducted by Cuemath, a learning programme. The study found that 89 pc of parents feel that maths is the toughest subject for their children; 77 pc also blame faulty teaching methods in schools for this.

“I think the key to the issue is to strengthen your basics and then move ahead. As for the teachers to make the subject grow on the students, it’s time to come with up some interesting ideas,” says Sayani Das, research scholar, department of mathematics, IIT Madras to Media India Group.

However, it can’t be argued that the need for a high intellect in mathematics has more to do with just acing board exams. Learning math is a necessity that India right now just can’t afford to overlook. Higher level mathematical proficiency is needed in almost all areas of research and development along with industry, which includes engineering, production, information technology and the space sciences. The poor performance of Indian students in basic math shows that despite having inherited a profound heritage in math, the Indian education system has let us down in getting the knack of it. Thus, completing 90 years of producing a mind like Shakuntala Devi’s is a right-on-time reminder for us to put an end to this arithmophobia once and for all.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: All they want is a safe shelter URL: http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/2019/nov/02/all-they-want-is-a- safe-shelter-2055822.html

All they want is a safe shelter During the flood that crippled Kerala last year, the determination of fishermen had saved the lives of hundreds. Nevertheless, the residents of Nayarambalam panchayat, mostly inhabited by fisherfolk, have a story of harsh neglect to tell.Shuttling between relief camps and homes has become a regular ordeal for them with them moving to relief camps four times in October alone.

“We went back home on Thursday evening and came back on Friday around 2 am. We had just finished cleaning the houses when water started rising again,” said Johnson, a resident. Eighty-eight-year-old Celine, who is bedridden, had to be carried to the camp on a stretcher each time water level went up. At the camp with her 40-something son who suffers from Alzheimer’s, she is one among many who wishes to have safety under their roof.

Repeated sea attacks due to weak seawalls and shredded breakwaters (pulimuttu) and waterlogging due to canals clogged with sand and waste that seeps in during flooding are casting a shadow of disaster on this coastal village.

The residents of Nayarambalam are now housed mainly at two relief camps- Bhagavathy Vilasam Higher Secondary School and Devi Vilasam UP School.The latter hosts 923 people from 143 houses of ward number 12, according to panchayat member Anil Kumar.

Eighty-eight-year-old Celine, who is bedridden, waiting at Devi Vilasam LP School at Nayarambalam, which has been turned into a relief camp. Albin Mathew “Usually, people are assigned duty to cook and clean at relief camps. But here, people have taken it up as their responsibility and are keeping the system going. Sixteen panchayat members and revenue department are giving all the support. This is our eighth camp, and we are now at ease with this,” he adds. Officials from the family health centre, who are now stationed at the facility, confirm that chances of sudden epidemic or infection cannot be ignored since people are clustered in camps often.Students of both primary schools have been missing classes since the buildings have been indefinitely transformed into relief camps. When quizzed, MLA S Sarma said the state administration has already started the procedure to reconstruct 18 breakwaters on the Munambam beach stretch.

“A team from IIT Madras will submit a report about the same in December, and we are hoping to float the tender in January. It is a `25-crore project which will bring a permanent solution to this problem,” he said. He added that alternatively, the government is providing a 10-lakh rehabilitation plan for those willing to relocate away from the sea walls. “This includes `6 lakh for three cents of land. A sum of `4 lakh will immediately be provided for building a house,” he added.

Road to neglect The plight of Nayarambalam residents is worsened by the terrible condition of the coastal road that connects most of the houses to schools and the primary health centre. Despite pleas in this regard for the last 13 years, there have been no efforts to reinstate the infrastructure, claim locals. “This road is our only option to carry sick people or for children to go to school. They have unloaded construction materials to fool us, so we will take that and fill up these potholes ourselves,” said Rosy, who is also a member of rural employment guarantee scheme. In the first week of October, residents of the area had protested the condition of the road by catching fish from the puddle of mud water in front of Bhavana Anganwadi and bathing in it. However, S Sarma said tenders for reviving the coastal road has been floated and work will commence as soon as the rain subsides.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Ancient wisdom goes global URL: http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/02/ancient-wisdom- goes-global-2055807.html

Ancient wisdom goes global We all want this world to be a peaceful and happy place for human beings and every other living creatures. While some might find it to be a hard task to make the world a better place, city-based Magical 7 Studios think that this is highly possible by sowing the seeds of good thoughts and fundamental principles in the young minds right from one’s childhood. And their idea is simple. They are taking lessons from Thirukkural — the masterpiece of Tamil literature written by Thiruvalluvar — and combining it with the top 10 life skills mandated by the United Nations through the World Health Organization.

Knowledge sharing A part of Edsix Brainlab, Magical 7 Studios has come up with a series of animated videos to take pearls of ancient wisdom interspersed with basic life skills to children around the world. “Our initiative to take life skills to children is invested and supported by IIT-Madras and co-invested by IIM-Ahmedabad. We want to reach children through cartoons, animated content, and puzzles. These skills will cover political, secular, health, economic, safety and other aspects to provide holistic learning. We have created characters for our video content and copyrighted it,” said Saravanan Sundaramoorthy, CEO of Magical 7 Studios. The International Thirukkural Foundation in Mauritius — founded by Aroomugam Parasuramen — is partnering with Magical 7 Studios in this initiative.

There are 340 episodes and each runs for seven minutes. The stories will feature seven core animal characters of which Kapa and Tiga are the popular ones. The series will be available in English as well as 20 other Indian and international languages such as Arabic, Bengali, French, Gujarati, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Javanese, German, Turkish, Malay and Vietnamese.

For a better world “We’ve covered almost 75 per cent of the languages spoken by the population of the world. Thirukkural might come across as a serious subject, but in order to make it relatable, interesting and easy to understand, we’ve included humour and slapstick comedy. Even a three-year-old can understand and enjoy these stories. The videos will feature animals that have their own lifestyle. They fight, play and help each other in times of need. The team from IIT-Madras has put their heart and soul into crafting these videos,” he said, adding that it took almost six months to develop the content.

The video will be available in regional languages to reach children in rural areas. It’s free for government-run schools and is given at a subsidised rate to private institutions. After watching the series, the children will be given puzzles to apply these skills practically. It is said to improve the thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills in children.

Accolades & recognition “We had taken the content to Cannes International Film Festival from October 12 to October 15, 2019 under the animated category. We received positive feedback from the finest minds in the industry. They will be taking these videos with one or two minor modifications. This is a great recognition for the team from Chennai and a proud moment for our country since our animation industry is not as appreciated as the other fields. We’ve been getting inquiries about the videos from Americans, Chinese and Europeans. Our goal is to give back more than what we’ve taken from the world,” said Saravanan.That apart, ahead of Margazhi season, the Lakshman Sruthi consortium is creating an artistic interpretation of Thirukkural in the form of a dance-drama during Chennaiyil Thiruvaiyaru event on December 25, 9 am at Kamarajar Arangam.

For schoolchildren The video will be available in regional languages to reach children in rural areas. It’s free for government-run schools and is given at a subsidised rate to private institutions.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Yahoo News Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: 'Red Atlas Map' unveiled for flood mitigation in Chennai URL: https://in.news.yahoo.com/red-atlas-map-unveiled-flood-153122711.html

'Red Atlas Map' unveiled for flood mitigation in Chennai Red Atlas Map' unveiled for flood mitigation in Chennai Chennai, Nov 3 (PTI) Vice- President M Venkaiah Naiduon Sunday unveiled the 'Red Atlas Action Plan Map,' a first ofits kind ready reckoner, prepared by the Ministry of EarthSciences to aid Tamil Nadu government in effective floodmitigation in Chennai which witnessed the worst deluge in2015.

The atlas, with probable scenarios for different rainfallperiods, aims at flood mitigation, preparedness, operationsand management aspects, official sources told PTI.

Both the atlas and the 'Coastal Flood Warning System App(CFLOWS-Chennai)', which was launched by the Vice-Presidentare intended as decision support systems covering aspects,including preparedness and prevention.

The CFLOWS-Chennai is a complete webGIS-based decisionsupport system that can be used both for mitigation planningoperations before flooding and in real time to for aspectslike relief work.

Such initiatives to effectively tackle urban flooding arelikely to be replicated in cities including Mumbai, accordingto officials.

CFLOWS is an integrated system that involves couplingmodels of regional weather forecasts, storm surges andcaptures about 796 flood scenarios.

The over 200-page atlas was prepared by the NationalCentre for Coastal Research, India Meteorological Departmentand National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting inassociation with TN State Disaster Management Authority andGreater Chennai Corporation.

Also, the office of the Principal Scientific Advisor tothe government of India, IIT Madras, IIT-Bombay and theInstitute of Remote Sensing of the Anna Universityparticipated from the academia.

Date: 4th November 2019 Publication: Mint Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Freshworks to expand in US on high demand from small, medium businesses URL: https://www.livemint.com/companies/start-ups/freshworks-to-expand-in-us-on- high-demand-from-small-medium-businesses-11572840815355.html

Freshworks to expand in US on high demand from small, medium businesses Chennai and California-based Freshworks Inc. is ramping up its US operations amidst reports of a possible initial public offering (IPO) in the next two years or so. The software- as-a-service (SaaS) unicorn sees opportunities in the buoyant small and medium business (SMB) and mid-market segments in the US, that are looking for customized solutions, according to a top official.

Last week, Freshworks announced the opening of its second US office in Denver and said it would hire over 100 sales and solution engineers. While the majority of its 2,500-strong employee base is in India, the company is looking to increase its headcount in the US. Freshworks' chief marketing officer David Thompson, in an interview said that the customer engagement software company is looking to cater to the growing demand from the SMB and enterprise segments in the US and is also looking for acquisitions that will enhance its offerings.

“The US headquarters has about 200 people right now, growing very quickly to 300 people soon," he said. More than 2,000 Freshworks employees work out of Chennai, and it has offices in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

A significant portion of Freshworks’ revenue comes from small and medium businesses. Referring to a recent study conducted in the US, UK and Germany by Freshworks and Forrester Research of the former’s competitors such as Salesforce and Microsoft, Thompson said the study revealed that almost 70% of small businesses and mid-market enterprises are thinking of changing their CRM software in the next two years.

“Smaller customers have a really hard time dealing with the complexity (of legacy SaaS software) and get easily frustrated by the experience and the price tag. And so they're looking for a fresh solution. There's just so much of that opportunity, both in net new customer acquisitions who haven't been in the cloud before, as well as those converting," he said.

The company also plans to educate customers about the innovation and cutting-edge research that’s happening in India. It is working with IIT Madras to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to improve its business software.

“Our head of engineering is working very closely with the AI department at IIT Madras, where some of the most advanced research in the world is happening. We want to show our customers that when you are coming to us, you're getting the bleeding edge technology," he said.

On recent reports of a possible IPO listing in US, Thompson said, "...That's just a part of the fundraising process. We're going to do what's right for the business, we're going to invest as our customers need us to invest in the business. So if IPO is the right way to go at the right time, we’ll look at that," he said.

“We're just growing our business. We're expanding very rapidly and will look at financing opportunities as they come along," Thompson added.

Freshworks is also collaborating closely with Amazon Web Services to leverage some of their AI algorithms. The company recently acquired Natero, a customer success management software company, which marked its tenth acquisition.

“We're at a stage where our tech stack is very mature, but also very open. So we're looking for companies that are very compatible with that tech stack. We're focused on finding synergies that can have immediate impact and can be immediately integrated with the customer experience, like Natero," he said.

Freshworks’ business is a “good healthy distribution between Europe and US," he said, adding that India is their third largest market. “We've got offices in Australia, just opened one in relationship with a partner in Japan, an office in Singapore, and a small presence in the Middle East. The opportunity is very, very global."

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Bharat Mitra Edition: Kolkata Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Headline: India seeks to become a superpower in space technology, IIT and ISRO promised to help each other

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Your Story Edition: Online Journalist: NA Alumni: Divya Shrivastava and Vivekanand Jha shared Headline: Founded by IIT alumni, tech startup Nineleaps aims to make enterprises future-ready URL: https://yourstory.com/2019/11/tech-product-startup-nineleaps-bengaluru

Founded by IIT alumni, tech startup Nineleaps aims to make enterprises future-ready

STARTUP Founded by IIT alumni, tech startup Nineleaps aims to make enterprises future- ready Founded by Divy Shrivastava and Vivekanand Jha in 2014, Bengaluru-based tech product startup Nineleaps aims to enable digital transformation for businesses with its focus on problem solving and unique approach to precision engineering. By Thimmaya Poojary 5th Nov 2019 0:00/5:45 111 claps +0 Divy Shrivastava and Vivekanand Jha shared a love for coding, software products, and technology platforms. Their drive to know and do more led the techie duo, both IIT-Madras graduates, to establish Nineleaps, a software product tech startup, five years ago. The startup aims to enable digital transformation, and help partner companies become future-ready. With a focus on problem solving combined with a unique approach to precision engineering, Nineleaps helps improve and develop new tech products. Divy and Vivekanand founded Nineleaps in 2014, with a focus on creating software products. Today, the startup has customers from diverse segments, including a global retailer, national health insurance infrastructure, cab aggregator, stock trader, and even a chess tournament! Nineleaps has been working with Bay Area startups and Fortune 500 companies, providing highly scalable and performance-driven applications in web, mobile, big data, and analytics. The bootstrapped venture has remained profitable throughout, except for the first year. Nineleaps Technology Founders Divy Shrivastava (left) and Vivekanand Jha. Also Read Government unveils new national policy on software products The seeds of the startup were sown way back in 2008 when the duo reunited through a friend after each had brief stints in the corporate world. They had graduated from IIT-Madras in 2005. “We decided to build something in 2009, but had no clue what to do. We would just code (then) and be happy,” Vivekanand says. One day, a common friend asked for help in creating a technology product, and they successfully created one. This started the Nineleap journey, where initially they got projects through referrals. Despite the lack of domain knowledge in a few cases, such as a stock exchange and a global chess tournament, their expertise was sought after. “We had no clue about these subjects but decided to take a shot (at it). We were good at solving problems,” Vivekanand says. A learning experience Essentially coders who were problem solvers, their start was rocky as a founding member was poached by a client, and three-fourth of their revenue also went along. That was when Divy and Vivekanand decide to dig in and fight. The years from 2009 to 2013 were a learning experience that cemented the foundation for creation of Nineleaps. “This was the period when we learnt to build products, and realised that this was the most wanted skill for many startups,” says Divy. As a bootstrapped venture, Nineleaps began with the idea of being hands-on while creating products, and doing more with less. “There was an assumption at that time that firms in India were getting work because of (charging) lower costs but we never believed in that. It became a major pivot for us as our billing rates went up with a change in employee profile,” Vivekanand says. The business model of Nineleaps depends on the type of project. In some cases, it is a one-time payment; in others, they charge a royalty for each product built. Banking on expertise Having worked for five years on different projects, Nineleaps has stuck to its fundamental principles. According to Divy, three fundamental blocks help Nineleaps create effective software products - algorithm stacks, data engineering, and services. The expertise in these three areas has helped them create innovative products that are scalable. As a software product creator, the startup remains sector-agnostic yet has an emphasis on segments like retail, mobility, and education. However, it does not have a long list of clients. “Most of our customers come to us through referrals. At any given point, we have four to eight clients who we work very closely with, and build deep relationships,” Divy says. Today, around 60 percent of Nineleaps’ clients are international; the rest are from India. The founders believe they have been honest about their expertise, made no false promises, and have a hunger to learn. “In many cases, we admitted to not knowing a technology to our clients, and that we were willing to learn as we were good at what we do,” Vivekanand recalls. This included programming languages like Java and Python. Hiring the best talent The tech startup, which has a 450-strong team, as made it to LinkedIn’s list of 25 hottest Indian startup to work for in 2019, the second year in a row . The founders are also proud that many of their employees have been placed in established companies and leading startups. In a way it is also testament to their human capital resources. Attracting and retaining key talent is a key factor in growth, which is why the founders created their own software product that identifies key talent in engineering colleges beyond IITs. “We always wondered if there was a way of knowing the best four individuals in every engineering college,” Vivekanand says. This tech platform conducts aptitude tests, video analytics, etc. It has already completed 21,000 assessments for the core team. “There is a lot of demand for our services, and we look for people who have a product mindset. We need talent aligned to that philosophy,” Divy adds. The future is bright The founders believe that there is a great opportunity to further sharpen their skills in terms of quality and engineering design. “We have competed against the big guys in the industry and won. Our challenge lies in the discovery of new things,” Vivekanand says. Divy adds, “We understand the market dynamics. We know if we do good work, more will come our way.” The founders are clear about not seeking external funding right now. "We are generating enough demand while being cash rich. Even for a presence in a foreign location like Europe or North America, Nineleaps can fund it through internal accruals," they say.

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Kochi Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Headline: Flyover Rebuilding the only option govt tells HC URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/flyover-rebuilding-the-only-option- govt-tells-hc/articleshow/71912271.cms

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Kochi Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Headline: Decision on flyover rehabilitation based on technical panel report

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Palarivattom flyover: Rebuilding is the only way out URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/palarivattom-flyover-rebuilding-is- the-only-way-out-govt-tells-hc/articleshow/71901120.cms

Palarivattom flyover: Rebuilding is the only way out

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Manorama Edition: Online Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Headline: Palarivattom Flyover scam: HC grants bail to Sooraj, two others URL: https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/kerala/2019/11/04/palarivattom- bridge-corruption-case-accused-high-court-bail.html

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: News Today Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: 'Red Atlas Map’ unveiled for flood mitigation in Chennai URL: https://newstodaynet.com/index.php/2019/11/04/red-atlas-map-unveiled-for- flood-mitigation-in-chennai/

'Red Atlas Map’ unveiled for flood mitigation in Chennai

Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday unveiled the ‘Red Atlas Action Plan Map,’ a first of its kind ready reckoner, prepared by the Ministry of Earth Sciences to aid Tamil Nadu government in effective flood mitigation in Chennai which witnessed the worst deluge in 2015.

The atlas, with probable scenarios for different rainfall periods, aims at flood mitigation, preparedness, operations and management aspects, official sources told PTI.

The manual provides information, including on corporation wards that are likely to be affected due to flooding, and the areas that may need evacuation in Chennai taking into account all historical datasets. Both the atlas and the ‘Coastal Flood Warning System App (CFLOWS-Chennai)’, which was launched by the Vice-President are intended as decision support systems covering aspects, including preparedness and prevention.

Also, the office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the government of India, IIT Madras, IIT-Bombay and the Institute of Remote Sensing of the Anna University participated from the academia.

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: GQ India.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Pooja Batra is now the proud owner of a Tesla Model 3, no less URL: https://www.gqindia.com/gq-gears/content/pooja-batra-former-bollywood- actress-is-now-a-proud-owner-of-the-tesla-3-car

Pooja Batra is now the proud owner of a Tesla Model 3, no less Bollywood celebrities love their hot wheels. Just recently, Janhvi Kapoor bought a Mercedes Maybach, whereas Ranveer Singh is the owner of a Lamborghini Urus SUV. And recently, former actress Pooja Batra gave her Instagram followers a glimpse of her new ride. The 43-year-old actress, who has now moved to Los Angeles, California, posted a picture with her brand new Tesla Model 3.

Tesla is among one of the most-awaited auto brands in India. Very few people, including Mukesh Ambani and Riteish Deshmukh own the electric wonder in the country. The actress’ new Tesla 3 is the most affordable car in the company’s model line-up and is registered in America itself. In the States, the base model of the Tesla 3 costs about $36,000 and the highest variant goes up to $56,000. Since, the exact variant of Batra’s new car is not known, the Tesla could have cost her anything between ₹25 lakh to ₹40 lakh.

The Tesla 3 is among one of the most popular models the company makes. Their high- tech features, coupled with a promise of having no carbon footprints can be the reasons behind that success. It offers a range of travelling 386 kms on a single charge. The car also comes along with a huge infotainment system, which can be used to operate several features. It comes with an auto-pilot and a self-park mode as well. The Tesla 3’s top speed is 200 km/hr and it can go from 0 to 100 km/hour with five seconds.

Despite having a huge market to cater to in India, Founder Elon Musk still hasn’t been successful in bringing his brand to the country. In 2018, the tech genius had tweeted that he wasn’t being able to bring his futuristic cars here due to rigid government policies and even the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) norms. However, earlier this year, he again promised some students from IIT Madras that Tesla will be in India by 2020.

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Deal Street Edition: Online Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Headline: India: Freshworks to expand in US on demand from small, medium businesses URL: https://www.dealstreetasia.com/stories/freshworks-expansion-us-160784/

India: Freshworks to expand in US on demand from small, medium businesses

Date: 5th November 2019 Publication: Market Publicist Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Clinical Diagnostics Market Global Research and Study by Experts 2019 to 2024 URL: https://themarketpublicist.com/2019/11/04/clinical-diagnostics-market-global- research-and-study-by-experts-2019-to-2024/

Clinical Diagnostics Market Global Research and Study by Experts 2019 to 2024 Global Clinical Diagnostics market has been thoroughly scrutinized and then carefully demarcated by geographic locations which are based on major economic regions and their topographical regions. Growing competition and the changing market dynamics has been highlighted. Aggressive market players are profiled with attributes of company overview, financial overview, business strategies, product portfolio and recent developments. The Market share and Market size prominent players for 2019 to 2024 are profiled in this report.

The Clinical Diagnostics market is highly competitive and consists of a number of major players. Top Companies like Abbott Laboratories, Becton, Dickinson and Company, BioMerieux, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Danaher Corporation, Siemens AG, Hologic Inc., Qiagen N.V, F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Thermo Fisher Scientific among others

Click the link to get a free Sample Copy of the Report: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/09111445718/clinical-diagnostics- market-growth-trends-and-forecast-2019-2024/inquiry?source=MW&Mode=70

Scope of the Report

A clinical diagnostic test is a type of medical test performed to aid in the diagnosis or detection of any disease. These tests play a vital role in the prevention, control, and surveillance of any disease. Clinical diagnostics help in the detection of early warning signs and individual risk factors, creating new opportunities for prevention and early intervention. Thus, the heavy burden of chronic diseases is expected to drive the market studied over the forecast period.

Key Market Trends

Lipid Panel is Anticipated to be the Fastest Growing Test

Lipid panel includes tests for total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, cholesterol/HDL Ratio, non-HDL Cholesterol. A lipid panel measures the level of specific lipids in blood in order to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) of any individual and is used in screening populations to identify the subjects with a high risk of developing a cardiac event. Coronary heart disease occurs when cholesterol accumulates on artery walls, creating plaques, causing angina pectoris (chest pain), shortness of breath, myocardial infarction, or heart attack.

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), 17.9 million people die each year due to CVD which accounts for 31% of all deaths across the globe. Data given by the American Heart Association indicates that about 2,300 Americans die of cardiovascular disease each day, an average of 1 death every 38 seconds.

Hence, with the increase in the prevalence and mortality rate of the cardiovascular disease, there is an increase in the requirement of lipid profile testing at an early stage, thus driving the lipid panel segment.

(Special Offer: Get flat 15% discount on this report)

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Asia Pacific is Expected to Witness Highest CAGR Over the Forecast Period

Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR for Clinical Diagnostic market. This is majorly due to the growing adoption to the technological advancements and the rising investments that are done by the global companies.

The rise in pollution levels in India increased the chances of more severe diseases, thereby resulting in more demand for diagnostic services and preventive care.

Technological advancements have led to the diagnostic sector growing and evolving very rapidly in India, which can further strengthen the diagnostics component in the healthcare system and make it available at affordable prices to improve medical outcomes.

In 2018, J. Mitra launched Indias first portable diagnostic solution, the iQuant immunoassay analyzer, in the Indian market, in collaboration with Healthcare Technology Innovation Centre of IIT Madras to provide cost-effective diagnostic solutions in remote locations and limited-resource settings. Hence, with such advances happening at a cosistent pace with growing importance iven by government, this region shall witness rapid growth.

Browse the Full report description and TOC at: https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/09111445718/clinical-diagnostics- market-growth-trends-and-forecast-2019-2024?source=MW&Mode=70

What are the market factors that are explained in the report?

–Key Strategic Developments: The study also includes the key strategic developments of the market, comprising R&D, new product launch, M&A, agreements, collaborations, partnerships, joint ventures, and regional growth of the leading competitors operating in the market on a global and regional scale.

–Key Market Features: The report evaluated key market features, including revenue, price, capacity, capacity utilization rate, gross, production, production rate, consumption, import/export, supply/demand, cost, market share, CAGR, and gross margin. In addition, the study offers a comprehensive study of the key market dynamics and their latest trends, along with pertinent market segments and sub-segments.

–Analytical Tools: Clinical Diagnostics Market report includes the accurately studied and assessed data of the key industry players and their scope in the market by means of a number of analytical tools. The analytical tools such as Porter’s five forces analysis, feasibility study, and investment return analysis have been used to analyzed the growth of the key players operating in the market.

The research includes historic data from 2014 to 2019 and forecasts until 2025 which makes the reports an invaluable resource for industry executives, marketing, sales and product managers, consultants, analysts, and other people looking for key industry data in readily accessible documents with clearly presented tables and graphs.

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Financial Express Edition: Delhi / Mumbai / Pune / Bangalore / Hyderabad / Chennai / Kolkata / Kochi / Ahmedabad / Chandigarh / Kochi Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Ashok Jhunjunwala Headline: Working on solutions for very Indian problems URL: https://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/food-cafe-working-on-solutions-for- very-indian-problems/1755527/

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Business Line Edition: Chennai / Delhi / Mumbai / Pune / Bangalore / Hyderabad / Kochi / Ahmedabad / Chandigarh Page No: 2 Journalist: Preeti Mehra Headline: Tackling water in the time of climate change floods and drought

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: Dia Rekhi Professor: Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi Headline: Is Indian ready tot say AI? URL: http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/06/is-india-ready-to- say-ai-2057639.html

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Chennai Page No: 8 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. S Christopher (Former Professor) Headline: EEC conducts science expo for school kids

Date: 6th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. SM Shiva Nagendra Headline: Is Chennai heading the Delhi way? URL: http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/06/chennai-smog-- air-quality-dips-to-alarming-levels-2057499.html

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The News Minute Edition: Online Journalist: Nityanand Jayaraman Headline: Stop insulting us – Chennai doesn’t need help from Delhi to worsen our pollution! URL: https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/stop-insulting-us-chennai-doesn-t-need- help-delhi-worsen-our-pollution-111828

Stop insulting us – Chennai doesn’t need help from Delhi to worsen our pollution!

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: India Education Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Dr.S. Christopher (former faculty) Headline: A Mega Science Exhibition for School Student was organized by Easwari Engineering college, Chennai URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/a-mega-science-exhibition-for-school-student-was- organized-by-easwari-engineering-college-chennai/

A Mega Science Exhibition for School Student was organized by Easwari Engineering college, Chennai Easwari Engineering college, Chemistry Department, Ramapuram, Chennai has organized a Science Exhibition for School Students, In order to develop a Science. The aim of the Exhibition to develop scientific spirit and curiosity among students, Promoting Interest in Science and technology among younger generation, to encourage Problem solving approach and developing appropriate technologies by applying scientific ideas in daily situations, More than 300 student 60 schools were participated and exhibited their project models on various themes. More than 2000 students from various school visited the exhibition, witnessed all the projects and appreciated the innovative works.

The former Director of DRDO and professor, Department of Electrical engineering , IIT Madras, Dr.S. Christopher was The chief Guest and inaugurated the exhibition. During the exhibition Dr. R. S. Kumar, Principal, Easwari Engineering College (Autonomous), Dr. T. S. Sridhar, Director General, SRM Group of Institution, Ramapuram & Trichy Campus, Dr. Ravichandran, HOD, Department of Chemistry, Easwari engineering College were present.

Mrs. Maya, Principle, Sri Chaithanya Techno , School, K.K.Nagar , Chennai, Mrs. Deepa Sriram, Principle, PonVidhyashram CBSE school, Valasaravakkam, Chennai as Chief Guest in Valedictory function and distributed the Prizes to winners.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: Abhinav Malhotra Headline: CSAW: Students exhibit hacking talent at IIT-K URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kanpur/csaw-students-exhibit-hacking- talent-at-iit-k/articleshow/71946152.cms

CSAW: Students exhibit hacking talent at IIT-K

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Your Story Edition: Online Journalist: NA Alumni: Mr. Ashfaq Ashraf Headline: [Startup Bharat] How startups from small towns are giving their peers from metros a tough fight URL: https://yourstory.com/2019/11/startup-bharat-small-towns-metros-consumer-india

[Startup Bharat] How startups from small towns are giving their peers from metros a tough fightFrom healthcare and sanitation to education, livelihood, and farming, there are a number of opportunities for entrepreneurs in our country. With the addition of over 1,100 startups in 2019, India has continued to maintain its position as the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world, according to industry body Nasscom. However, for many years, entrepreneurship has largely remained a big city phenomenon. This despite the fact that a significant part of the population lives in smaller cities and rural areas. But this seems to be changing now as more people from Bharat are trying their hand at starting up. While startups in metros are mostly looking at consumer solutions, their peers from smaller towns seem to be solving more real problems. From healthcare device startups to edtech coding startups, they are looking at problems probably witnessed by the founders personally. According to an analyst from a top consultancy firm, metro startups are mostly focussed on the city population and are coming up with solutions to make their life easier. Hence, we are seeing more startups coming up in the ecommerce, food, and mobility space. “But now the focus is on startups solving problems that impact larger sections of the population,” says the analyst. Also Read [Startup Bharat] Jaipur-based Codevidhya is decoding a future where kids learn coding in school... Solving real problems A quick look at YourStory database of funded startups shows that startups from smaller cities are coming up with interesting solutions to solve real problems. At the same time, they are also not shying away from sectors like ecommerce or fintech either. In fact, there are just as many startups in sectors like ecommerce and SaaS as there are in edtech and healthtech space from smaller towns. Where these startups really add value lies in their first-hand understanding of the problems faced by the semi-rural population, and their ability to tackle challenges that don’t exist in bigger cities. Take for instance Lifetron Innov Equipments. Founded by Dr Kiran Kanthi, Lifetron has built a portable machine to save newborn babies from jaundice deaths in rural India. Currently, 60 percent of all newborns across most third-world and developing nations need the phototherapy to treat jaundice in newborns. “While this facility is easily available in most large hospitals in cities, rural areas often don’t have this facility, which can easily prevent unnecessary deaths,” Kiran says. Understanding the market While most entrepreneurs by and large remain the same when it comes to their startups, CM Patil of Deshpande Startups (previously Sandbox Hubli Startups), Hubballi, contends there is one key differentiator in startup founders from non-metros. “Particularly in non-metros, I see them (entrepreneurs) a lot more committed and passionate. Their distractions are much less compared to urban entrepreneurs. They have a clear understanding of the problem as they work closely with those affected,” he says. “By choosing to start up in Tier II and III India, these startups would be close to their customer segment, and that helps them tremendously in building products/solutions in continuous engagement with them,” Patil says.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Gateway Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: U of A poised to start new joint doctoral program with four Indian universities URL: https://thegatewayonline.ca/2019/11/u-of-a-poised-to-start-new-joint-doctoral- program-with-four-indian-universities/

U of A poised to start new joint doctoral program with four Indian universities The University of Alberta is one step closer to developing a joint doctoral program with four Indian universities.

On October 23, the General Faculty Council academic planning committee approved a motion, that once officially approved, will have four Indian universities create a new joint doctoral program with the U of A.

David Turpin, U of A president, originally planned on travelling to India in early November to “move forward relations” with institutions and have this agreement officially signed. After the release of the provincial budget, Turpin cancelled his trip. However, the agreement will still go ahead but be formalized “at a later date,” said the office of the president.

The following Indian Institutes of Technology are included in the proposed agreement: Roorkee, Bombay, Kharagpur, and Madras.

The rationale for creating this joint program is to advance the U of A’s relations with Indian universities, attract top graduates to Alberta, and build further research connections. The provost’s office at the U of A has committed to providing three years of funding to support two incoming IIT students per institution per year. Any outgoing U of A students attending programming in India would have basic costs of accommodation and food covered by the IIT they attend.

The joint doctoral program, while approved at the U of A, will take effect upon final approval once a formal memorandum of understanding is signed between both parties.

According to documents supporting the creation of this joint doctoral program, the U of A already has a strong relationship with these institutions. This includes leading the number of academic paper joint publications than any of the other top 15 Canadian universities. Additionally, the U of A Research Experience has brought over 175 undergraduate research interns from IIT Bombay and IIT Kharagpur to the university since 2010.

“Developing joint doctoral degree programs with the top IITs will allow us to further advance and solidify the U of A’s profile as the leader in Indo- Canadian academic relations,” the documents read. “At the moment, no other Canadian institutions have entered into such agreements with the IITs.” Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: Print Week Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Any technological innovation in wire to cope with a 13,000-cycle/ hour saddle-stitcher? URL: https://www.printweek.in/Features/uday-grover-we-produce-so-much-wire,-it-can- travel-to-the-moon-and-back-three-times-over-42320

Any technological innovation in wire to cope with a 13,000-cycle/ hour saddle-stitcher? What’s happening in the world of stitching? We have been in the business of trading stitching wire for 50 years, and we have been manufacturing our own stitching wire for the past 15 years. The innovations we have introduced include custom sizes and larger SKUs. In terms of changes in high-end stitching, I would say saddle stitchers are becoming faster every four years (the Drupa cycle). In 2008, we saw the models from Muller Martini and Hohner produce 12,000 books/ hour and in 2016, we saw machines producing 18,000 books/ hour.

There are also lines from Ferag producing 30,000 books/ hour. But the game-changer was a Swedish company that made stitchers that were capable of stitching at 1,20,000 books/ hour (in line with the production of a web press). This equipment has already come to India, and are being used extensively at most leading newspapers.

And what are the changes you have brought about in the segment? Earlier only four sizes of wire were made – 20, 22, 24, and 26. It was probably used for inventory purposes. When we started manufacturing, we came up with 15 standard sizes and also gave the customers an option to customise the size of wire with customised machines, we helped the customer reduce the total consumption of the wire. For example, a 24-wire (0.60-mm) will give approximately 455-m but a 24.5 (0.57-mm) will give approximately 505-m. Just by reducing the size by 0.03-mm, we increased the length of the wire by 10% and reduced the consumption for the customer by 10%.

Also, we had seen that people in the industry were reducing the weight of the per piece wire supplied, to convince the customer that their cost was lower than the others. From a 2.25-kg (5-pounds) wire coil, the weight had reduced to 1.4-kg to even 1.2-kg in some markets.

When we introduced our product, we started with a 2-kg spool. This was met by a little resistance in the beginning, but once the binders started using it, they saw that they had a much higher production and lower stoppages resulting in better productivity for them.

We now supply SKUs of up to 40-kg for high-speed saddle-stitching lines and have helped the customer by saving almost 18-20 hours of machine downtime (related to wire stoppages and changing) per month.

You mentioned to me that the wire you manufacture can reach the moon and return… I meant that we produce so much wire that if we joined it all together then we will cover the distance from the earth to the moon and back three times a year!

Any new products from your stable the industry should keep an eye out for? We have been introducing SKUs and customised sizes that have helped consumers reduce their overall spend on the wire. We have also upgraded our wire production machines in the past five years. This has helped us increase our production speeds to ensure that we produce wire most cost-effectively and efficiently. So, if the industry is looking for a trouble-free and cost-effective solution, they should get in touch with our distribution channel partners or us.

Any technological innovation in wire to cope with a 13,000-cycle/ hour saddle-stitcher? Being a metallurgical engineer from IIT Madras, when I started producing the wire, I had to ensure that the product is the best amongst the similar products available in the market. Uniform tensile strength, perfect roundness and clean surface finish help the wire run at high speeds without jamming. The trick is to use the right grade of steel and the right processing of steel to ensure that all these parameters are met.

What is your assessment of the particular products your customers are producing? We focus on specific segments. These include notebooks, textbooks and publications; commercial printing (catalogues and brochures); magazines; cheque books (security printing); bus tickets and lottery tickets; and special applications. Each of these segments is different and growing at a different pace.

Who are your global allies? And how do you identify them? The strategy from the beginning was to reach a scale of operation wherein the business can be run by efficient managers and then add more allied products to our portfolio. The first logical product was a machine that consumes our wire. With that in mind, we tied up with Hohner, the best company in the world-making stitching heads and stitching machines. Since then, we have added many machines in the post-press segment in our portfolio with Multigraf being the latest addition.

Tell us more about the product and service improvement project in Chennai that you initiated with your partners. The customisation and SKU is what we have done to give the customers an edge while using our product. We also tied up with 3PL companies to ensure that we give the customer a trouble-free and timely delivery solution. Since the wire is a comparatively low-value product, customers generally do not track their inventory and while reordering, they always say they wanted the material yesterday. Keeping that in mind we are working with 3PL companies to ensure timely deliveries to our customers.

What’s happening with Hohner and La Pietra notebook-making machines in India? We have sold two La Pietra machines in a year and then had to stop as the Indian customers were happy with the low-priced alternatives. The Indian companies have also worked very hard and have improved the quality of the machines substantially. We are still optimistic about the industry. We hope once there is sufficient consolidation, customers will be open to buying better and more efficient machines.

On the bright side, we are doing really well with Hohner. We are selling almost 1,500 stitching heads a year (through seven-eight OEMs and direct sales to customers). We are also selling an average 10-12 Hohner stitching machines per year. We have also built up a healthy pipeline and are hopeful that we will be able to get our first fully automatic saddle-binder in India very soon.

Apart from this, we are also helping customers by servicing their old (sometimes second hand) Hohner stitching heads and machines. We have had success in replacing stitching heads on many secondhand Muller Martini machines with Hohner heads.

One thing about Gayathri our readers do not know about? We are a 55-year-old company when it comes to customer satisfaction, but a start-up when it comes to customer acquisitions. Being an old company, we have the added responsibility of taking care of the legacy that our forefathers have left us. We just cannot add any product in our portfolio.

We have a process by which we evaluate machine manufacturers carefully even if it requires visiting them multiple times in their country. Only when we are completely satisfied that the machines are excellent and the people helpful, that we start negotiating contracts. This process of selection has always helped us bring the best quality products to the Indian market.

Date: 7th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: Rajlakshmi Ghosh Headline: Two-year post-study work visa to enhance UK work experience URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/education/times-study- abroad/europe/two-year-post-study-work-visa-to-enhance-uk-work- experience/articleshow/71936957.cms

Two-year post-study work visa to enhance UK work experience

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Chronicle Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: Saving deer in concrete jungle tough and challenging URL: https://www.deccanchronicle.com/opinion/op-ed/081119/saving-deer-in- concrete-jungle-tough-and-challenging.html

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Vikatan Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Saving deer in concrete jungle tough and challenging URL: https://www.vikatan.com/living-things/animals/will-translocation-be-the-solution- for-deers-in-iit-madras

Saving deer in concrete jungle tough and challenging

"ஐஐ羿 சைட்ராஸ் ைற்쟁ை் ைத்鎿ய லதால் ஆராய்ெ்殿 நி쟁வன வளாகங்க쿁க்埁ள் , கடந்த 5 ஆை்翁களில் 497 ைான்கள் இறந்鏁ள்ளன. உடற்埂쟁 பரிலொதமன 믁羿ퟁகள், இறந்த ைான்கள் சப쏁ை்பாலானவற்잿ன் வ뾿ற்잿ல் 4 믁தல் 5 垿லலா வமர ꮿளாஸ்羿க் இ쏁ந்ததாகத் சதரிힿக்垿ன்றன." ெஞ்ெய் 埁ைார் ஸ்ரீவஸ்தவா, தமலமை வன அ쯁வலர் ைான் கன்쟁 ைான் கன்쟁 Pixabay ஐஐ羿 ைற்쟁ை் ைத்鎿ய லதால் ஆராய்ெ்殿 நி쟁வன வளாகங்களி쮿쏁ந்鏁 ꯁள்ளி ைான்கமள இடை் ைாற்ற லவை்翁சைன்ற வனத்鏁மற뾿ன் 믁羿ퟁக்埁 எ鎿ராகப் லபாடப்பட்ட சபா鏁நல வழக்垿ல், நவை்பர் 5-ை் லத鎿, வனத்鏁மற ொர்பாகத் தமலமை வன அ쯁வலர் ப鎿லளித்தலபா鏁தான் இந்த அ鎿ர்ெ்殿த் தகவமலக் 埁잿ப்ꮿட்டார்.

垿ை்羿뾿쯁ள்ள ராஜ் பவன் , ஐஐ羿, லதால் ஆராய்ெ்殿 மையை் ஆ垿ய ப埁鎿கள், ꯁள்ளிைான்களின் இயற்மகயான வா펿டை் 垿மடயா鏁. அங்埁, அமவ அ잿믁கப்ப翁த்தப்பட்டன. இந்தப் ப埁鎿கள் , ைான்க쿁க்埁ப் லபா鏁ைான உைퟁ, நீர், வா펿டத்மதக் சகா翁க்கힿல்மல. கட்翁ைானப் பைிகள் , லவ쮿கள், ை鎿ற்毁வர்கள் அமனத்鏁ை் அ鎿கரித்鏁வ쏁வதால், இ쏁க்垿ன்ற 埁மறவான வா펿ட믁ை் 鏁ை்டா垿க்சகாை்羿쏁க்垿ற鏁. 믁ன்னர், சைாத்தப் ப埁鎿뾿쯁ை் 毁தந்鎿ரைாக 毁ற்잿த்鎿ரிந்த ைான்கள் இப்லபா鏁, அந்தந்த வளாகங்க쿁க்埁ள் 毁쏁ங்垿 வாழலவை் 羿ய 毂ழல் ஏற்பட்翁ힿட்ட鏁.

சத쏁நாய்கள், ைா毁பா翁, 埁ப்மபகள் , லநாய்த் சதாற்쟁கள் என்쟁 பலퟁை் லெர்ந்鏁 இந்தப் ப埁鎿மய ைான்கள் வாழத் த埁鎿யற்றதாக ைாற்잿க்சகாை்羿쏁க்垿ற鏁. அதனால், இங்垿쏁ந்鏁 ைான்கமள லவ쟁 ஆலராக்垿யைான ப埁鎿க்埁 இடை் ைாற்ற லவை்翁சைன்쟁 அந்தப் ப鎿쮿ல் வனத்鏁மற ொர்பாகக் 埁잿ப்ꮿடப்பட்羿쏁ந்த鏁. 2000 므ட்டர் உயரத்鎿ல் வள쏁ை்; நடப்ப翁ை் 5,000 லொமல ைரக்கன்쟁கள்; 므ட்சட翁க்埁ை் நீல垿ரி வனத்鏁மற Also Read 2000 므ட்டர் உயரத்鎿ல் வள쏁ை்; நடப்ப翁ை் 5,000 லொமல ைரக்கன்쟁கள்; 므ட்சட翁க்埁ை் நீல垿ரி வனத்鏁மற ꯁள்ளிைான்க쿁க்埁 சென்மன ꯁ鎿ய வா펿டை். லவ쟁 கா翁களி쮿쏁ந்鏁 இங்லக அ잿믁கப்ப翁த்தப்பட்டமவ. சவளிைான்கள்தான் , சென்மன뾿ல் இயற்மகயான வா펿டத்மதக் சகாை்翁ள்ளன. ꯁள்ளிைான்கள் , அடர்த்鎿யான ைரங்களடர்ந்த ப埁鎿뾿ல்埂ட வாழ்ந்鏁ힿ翁ை். ஆனால் , சவளிைான்க쿁க்埁 ꯁல்சவளிகள் லதமவ. ஐஐ羿 நி쟁வனை் சதாடர்ந்鏁 ힿரிவாக்கப்பட்翁க்சகாை்லட뾿쏁க்垿ற鏁. கட்翁ைானங்களின் எை்ைிக்மக அ鎿கரித்鏁க்சகாை்லட뾿쏁க்垿ற鏁. சவட்டசவளி நிலங்கள் எமத뿁ை் அவர்கள் ힿட்翁மவப்ப鎿ல்மல. ஒன்쟁, ힿமளயாட்翁த் 鎿டலாக ைாற்잿ힿ翁垿றார்கள் அல்ல鏁 கட்டடை் கட்羿ힿ翁垿றார்கள். கட்翁ைானப் பைிகளின்லபா鏁 뮿ெ்ெைா埁ை் 埁ப்மபகள் ெரியாக அப்ꯁறப்ப翁த்தப்ப翁வ鎿ல்மல. 殿ன்னெ் 殿ன்ன ꮿ.ힿ.殿埁ழாய்த் 鏁ை்翁கள், ைான்க쿁மடய 埁ழை்ꯁகளில் 殿க்垿 காயை் ஏற்ப翁த்鏁垿ன்றன. அந்தக் காயங்கள் 毀ல் ꮿ羿த்鏁, சபரிதா垿, அவற்잿ன் உ뾿மரப் ப잿க்垿ன்றன.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Economic Times Edition: Delhi / Mumbai / Ahmedabad Page No: 3 Journalist: Anubhuti Vishnoi Headline: IITs told to bring projects on curbing pollution to Delhi URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/iits-told-to-bring- projects-on-curbing-pollution-to-delhi/articleshow/71964376.cms

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express - Edex Edition: Online Journalist: Prajanma Das Headline: Do not want degree from Nishank: IIT BHU students protest fee hike day before convocation URL: https://www.edexlive.com/campus/2019/nov/07/do-not-want-degree-from- nishank-iit-bhu-students-protest-fee-hike-day-before-convocation-8956.html

Do not want degree from Nishank: IIT BHU students protest fee hike day before convocation

Students of IIT BHU student group Students For Change will be protesting on campus a day ahead of the HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhrial "Nishank"'s visit to the campus for their convocation. This is part of a nationwide call for protest at IITs against the MHRD's decision to stop some of the stipends. Another major issue they are protesting for is the MTech fee hike of about 900 per cent that the department and its committees think will help get rid of the students who are not-so-serious. The protest is supposed to be held at 6 pm on November 7 at the Limbdi Corner on campus.

The students also said that they do not want their degrees from their hands of a minister who does not understand the importance of education and is constantly imposing a dictatorship on fees. The students of IIT Madras and Bombay have also expressed solidarity with their protest.

The students said that reason that the ministry presented for the increase of fees — drop out — is a very childish one. "If the students are dropping out, then the reasons for this should be thought out and the methods of teaching should be corrected and handled — not just by increasing the fees. While the quality of education has been continuously deteriorating at IITs, the system of research and the funds for it are being reduced every session," said Vandana, the Secretary of SFC.

The IITs whose major workload should have been thought-provoking discoveries and development of technology for the basic needs of the society, said Vandana, are engaged in selling cheap labourers to multinational companies. "The research sector has been lagging behind due to lack of equipment in the departments and frequent research fund cuts — the students are getting discouraged," added Vandana. "IIT BHU recently announced that we will not get any institutional funding. We can study here only with the help of external funds like CISR and DST — they have removed the notice of admission for a few students as well. All decisions like fee hike, autonomy, research fund cut etc. show the intention of privatisation of education. They have had an eye on rail, education, health facilities, oil, research institute, everywhere for a long time now," she said. "This broker government wants to keep its pocket warm by selling everything to Adani, Ambani and America," she added.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Headline: Tamil Nadu got Rs 6,500 crore in investments last year: CM URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-got-rs-6500-crore-in- investments-last-year-cm-edappadi-k-palaniswami/articleshow/71964849.cms

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Swarajya Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Kerala: No Country For Women, Leave Alone Being ‘God’s Own Country’ URL: https://swarajyamag.com/politics/kerala-no-country-for-women-leave-alone- being-gods-own-country

Kerala: No Country For Women, Leave Alone Being ‘God’s Own Country’

The shocking apparent rape-murder of two young sisters, 13 and 9, three months apart in Kerala's Walayar is shocking even to jaded observers.

You are reading 2 of 3 free articles for this week. Already have a subscription? Login Continue ReadingSubscribe. Only Rs 99/Month Rajeev Srinivasan focuses on strategy and innovation, which he worked on at Bell Labs and in Silicon Valley. He has taught innovation at several IIMs. An IIT Madras and Stanford Business School grad, he has also been a conservative columnist for twenty years.

Swarajya has been a voice of heritage preservation for years. We've continued to document cases of cultural neglect, government and public apathy, and poor temple management. But now, we're taking our heritage campaign up another level. We present to you—the 100 Videos Project

Our in-depth heritage reportage will now feature video stories. Not one, not ten, not fifty, but a hundred. We'll interview experts in the field and bring you personal vlogs from India's ancient sites.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai / Kochi Page No: 12 Journalist: Indrani Bagchi Headline: The situation in Kashmir is not sustainable: Finland foreign minister URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/the-situation-in-kashmir-is-not- sustainable-finland-foreign-minister/articleshow/71950837.cms

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Your Story Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: The edtech scale index: How startingup challenges can be addressed through customer lifetime value and acquisition URL: https://yourstory.com/2019/11/edtech-scale-index-startingup-challenges

The edtech scale index: How startingup challenges can be addressed through customer lifetime value and acquisition How startingup challenges can be addressed through customer lifetime value and acquisition The customer is king. And rightly so. Especially in the edtech sector where customer value, acquisition and offerings can be the fine line between scale and failure. The article outlines the tightrope startups need to walk with on-the-ground examples that are lessons to learn from. By Pranav Saxena 7th Nov 2019 0:00/9:21 205 claps +0 +0 With 260 million students enrolled in schools and over 35 million students in tertiary education across the country, India has one of the largest consumer bases of primary and secondary education in the world. This makes for a huge addressable market for education technology companies. Traxcn Labs database reports 4,000 existing edtech startups in the country, with most being set up in the past 10 years. According to a Google-KPMG report, India’s online education market is set to grow to $2 billion and have around 9.6 million paying users by 2021 (still a small fraction of the country’s enrolment!). A handful of these edtech companies have achieved reasonable scale as well. Byju’s, for example, has 40 million users with 2.8 m as paying subscribers, Toppr claims to have over 30,000 tutors clocking over 6 million sessions every month. Upskilling platform Eruditus supported over 30,000 students in 2018. However, while this market in India is expected to grow rapidly, and more companies will scale up, profitability is going to be the key challenge facing the sector. Building profitable edtech businesses has been extremely difficult for companies across the world. For instance, the five-year old China-based English-tutoring company VIPKids, which has over 40,000 teachers and supports over 600,000 students every year, reported losses of over $200 million in 2018 (and losses are expected to widen this year). US-based Online Program Management (OPM) company 2U, listed on NASDAQ, lost $43 million (EBITDA) on revenue of $410 million after 11 years in operations. Chegg, which started in 2005, lost $7 million (on revenue of $320 million) in 2018, and is expected to turn profitable only this year. There are numerous examples of scaled edtech companies that continue to struggle with profitability. Levers of Profitability Let us explore the key challenges that impact profitability for edtech companies, and can be seen as the main levers to impact it:

Customer lifetime value Price points: How much can a company charge for a service? Student retention: What is the ability to retain paying customers? Customer acquisition cost: How efficiently can the company acquire customers? A. Customer lifetime value Price point Given that most buyers have been users of traditional brick-and-mortar education, there is a strong perception that online education offerings are of lower quality. This perception severely hampers the ability to charge higher prices for the same quality of a product (and potentially outcome). For example, Byju’s charges Rs 25,000 for the whole year’s content for Grade 9, as compared to Rs 6,000- Rs 8,000 per month for an in-person tutor. In the post-grad space, Symbiosis charges Rs 20 lakh for its MBA programme, which can be completed online for Rs 50,000, or Amity, which takes Rs 7 to Rs 8 lakh for full time vs Rs 1 lakh for the same course online. The trend is similar for test- prep, where veterans like Akash Institute offering the same classes online (via Akash Digital) for 50 to 60 percent cheaper.

The irony is that cheaper pricing reinforces the perception of lower quality. Student Retention One of the key reasons why traditional education institutes are strong businesses are that they are extremely sticky! Once enrolled in a school, a child will spend anywhere from eight to 12 years, thus leading to high lifetime values. In fact, parents often end up giving schools more money in 10 years than they do to luxury car companies. In other traditional sectors such as higher education, test prep and tuition services as well, students spend anywhere between two to five years. The same doesn’t hold for digital education. Retention can be a significant challenge for them. Parents and students are not brand loyal when it comes to online products and services - in education, reputation is directly proportional to vintage and edtech providers are the new-kids-on-the-block. The digital medium also makes switching costs low - no more having to figure out the transport, the friend circle, the infrastructure and the like. Thus, the lifetime of typical customers in edtech today is low, further impacting profitability. However, there are ways in which edtech companies can overcome this hurdle of customer lifetime value. In pricing, for example, upskilling startup UpGrad ties up with prestigious institutes like IIIT Bangalore and IIT Madras, and thus can command fees north of Rs 2,50,000 for one year online courses. Another strategy that we at LINC Education use, it to serve markets that inherently allow higher prices for online services. For example, we work with Australian universities, where an online MBA (no physical contact) and an in-classroom MBA are priced the same.

This allows us to command a higher price point for supporting online students. A recent technique has been to use Income Sharing Agreements (ISA), where students only pay once they achieve the desired outcomes (eg paying a percent of salary after getting a job). This enables a higher fee to be charged from the student (although it comes with higher uncertainty around payment). To increase customer lifetimes, Byju’s has now started selling multi-year subscriptions and has made it easier for parents to pay for it by arranging financing. Chegg, on the other hand, started as pay-per-go homework help for students, and has expanded its services to include online textbooks and question banks, math solver tools, and writing support, among others. This allows Chegg to retain students longer in its ecosystem. It is also propagated by selling a subscription that offers access to all its services. Thus, while low customer lifetime value is a challenge, there are ways in which edtech companies can innovate and increase this lifetime value. B. Customer Acquisition Cost The other lever that edtech businesses face a challenge with is the cost of acquiring a paying customer. Traditional education providers (schools, colleges, tuition centres, etc.) typically spend no more than 10 percent of their revenue on acquiring customers. A report by Brighteye VC evaluating 12 global public edtech companies found that their average marketing budget was 25 percent of the revenue. This cost can be much higher for startups and non-scale edtech companies. For example, Bjyu’s spend on TV advertising will be 20 percent of the revenue (in 2019), and this is in addition to sponsoring the Indian cricket team! In FY18, the company spent Rs 188 cr, from revenue of Rs 480 cr On sales and promotions alone. Many edtech companies are selling “nice-to-have” education products such as supplementary content and services than the must-have products like degrees or formal schooling. This makes it more expensive to convince customers to part with their money for the service. For B2C companies, customer acquisition is expensive because, while digital marketing is an excellent channel to generate leads and enquiries, edtech companies have to rely on physical touchpoints to convert these into sales. The likes of Byju’s and Toppr use a large on-ground team of “counsellors” going door-to-door trying to convert their digital leads. Vedantu, UpGrad, SimpliLearn also rely on large sales teams speaking with students to convert them into paying customers. And this is not just a problem in India. Consider 2U which continuously invests behind acquiring students for their partner universities. It has a sales and marketing expense of $220 million in CY18 (which is 50 percent of its revenue of $410m in the same period). On the B2B side, the biggest challenge lies in having long sales cycles. With multiple parties (administrators, teachers, students, etc.) involved in decision-making at an educational institute, it can take anywhere between six to 18 months to close a sale. This limits scalability and requires financial patience to invest in sales to education institutes. A great example of a B2B edtech company scaling is Turnitin, which primarily sells anti-plagiarism software-as-a-service to institutes. Established over 20 years ago, Turnitin has used its growing database of student submissions to become the industry standard in anti-plagiarism services for formative assessments - it managed over 500m submissions globally last year. Having such dominance over a niche market and thus, a strong brand recall has allowed them to reduce customer acquisition costs. It is widely believed that their operating margins have been close to 50 percent. Over the past five years, markets like China and the USA have seen a total VC investment of $13 billion and $7.5 billion, respectively. Over the same period, Indian edtech companies received a total VC funding of $1.4 billion, half of it in Byju’s alone. Given the enormous market opportunity in India, we can expect significant edtech investments here in the future, as well as see the emergence of large scale edtech companies. However, profitability will remain a challenge for the sector, and companies will have to continuously innovate to focus on the two main levers to become sustainable.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Digital Journal Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Deep Learning System Software Market Segmentation, Application, Trends, Opportunity & Forecast 2019 to 2024 URL: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/4498232

Deep Learning System Software Market Segmentation, Application, Trends, Opportunity & Forecast 2019 to 2024

The deep learning system software is a branch of artificial intelligence which are a set of machine learning algorithms based on neural networks. Deep learning system software trains the computer to imitate the human brain for decision-making purposes. The deep learning system software is also capable of dealing with unsupervised and unstructured data. Deep learning system software can do activities such as audio recognition, speech recognition, image recognition, etc. The deep learning system software is also helpful in detecting fraud in money transactions. Online platforms like Netflix, Google, Amazon, etc use deep learning system software in their business activities.

The deep learning system software is a machine learning subset that is helpful in analyzing data and predicting future activities based on data. The deep learning system software is a booming market, it has been an effective tool for businesses all over the world to analyze and predict sales and other business activities. Many businesses are adopting deep learning system software as it has been an effective business management tool. Along with business, the deep learning system software is also used in various commerce fields that include banking, accounts, etc

The Global Deep Learning System Software Market report provides a detailed analysis of the service, recent market trends, challenges faced, etc in the deep learning system software market. The report also analyses the consumption rate, growth opportunities and the key regions for growth based on research conducted in the deep learning system software market. The report divides the market into segments based on product type and industry. The report also predicts future trends in the market for the forecast period 2019-2024

Market Segmentation

The deep learning system software market has spread globally across many regions. The deep learning system software is being used in different fields and industries. In order to understand the market in a better and clear way, the deep learning system software market has been divided into segments based on product type and industry. The product type includes Cloud-based an On-premise. Cloud-based system stores data into cloud format, the cloud system is used for application building. On-premise is a software which is installed on computers on the premises of a company. The industry segment includes retail, aerospace, military and defense, automotive, industrial and medical. The deep learning system software is used in retail to analyze sales, in aerospace for aviation and flight management, in military and defense to monitor the activities of the army, in automotive to monitor production activities and in the medical field to keep track of patients.

Regional Overview

The regional overview report analyses the deep learning system software market at global and regional levels. The report discusses the market size, market share, consumption rate, scope for growth and other factors in the deep learning system software market. The report also provides information on key regions for growth, key market players, strategies used by key players in the deep learning system software market. The report provides detailed researched data on the markets spread across various regions globally. The regions in the report cover North America where the key players are the United States and Canada. The report also covers Asian regions where the key players are China, Japan, India, and Korea. With this, the report also covers MEA, GCC, South America, and European regions

Industry News

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has created an application for AI which would help to solve engineering problems. The AI software has been named AISoft which has been primarily developed to solve engineering problems. The IIT researchers claim the AI software is capable of solving thermal management, fluid dynamics, and other engineering-related problems.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India - Education Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: iGEM 2019 Awards: IISc Bangalore, IISER Tirupati and Kolkata win gold URL: https://www.educationtimes.com/article/campus-beat-college- events/71951665/igem-2019-awards-iisc-bangalore-iiser-tirupati-and-kolkata-win- gold.html iGEM 2019 Awards: IISc Bangalore, IISER Tirupati and Kolkata win gold

As many as seven Indian institutes have won gold and silver medals at the Giant Jamboree event of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition 2019, whose results have recently been declared in the US.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata and IISER Tirupati have secured the gold medals while IISER Bhopal, IISER Pune, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) have been awarded the silver medals. IISER Kolkata was also nominated for the best mathematical model and bio-safety measures.

“Extremely proud to share with you the achievements of IISER Tirupati students,” tweeted Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank,’ HRD minister.

As part of iGEM 2019, IISc Bangalore prepared a project named ‘Automated Optimal Growth Using Optics’ that focussed on using light to maintain the co-culture of bacteria cells. IISER Kolkata created ‘unLEISH,’ a genetically modified bacterium, which can sense macrophages infected by leishmania (parasite) found in sand flies and prevent the onset of leishmaniasis – a common disease in India. For their iGEM 2019 project, IISER Tirupati developed ‘CoCa coli’ – a probiotic, targeted immunotherapy that is defined by synthetic biology and mathematical modelling and can be used to treat cancer.

A total of 353 teams from 42 countries participated in iGEM 2019, which was held in Boston, USA from October 31-November 4. The event is an international competition wherein students from across the globe participate to conduct research in the field of synthetic biology. The first edition of the competition happened in 2004 when only 5 teams participated. The event is administered by iGEM Foundation, a non-profit organisation that works towards the advancement of synthetic biology and the development of an open community dedicated towards education and competition.

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: Mint Edition: Delhi / Mumbai / Pune / Bangalore / Hyderabad / Chennai / Kolkata / Ahmedabad / Chandigarh Page No: 7 Journalist: Meera Vankipuram Headline: Freshworks seeks to grow in US ahead of likely share sale URL: https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/freshworks-seeks-to-grow-in-us-ahead- of-likely-share-sale-11573148751598.html

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 18 Journalist: Shilarze Saharoy Headline: I never buckled down under pressure says Srinivasan URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/i-never-buckled-down- under-pressure-srinivasan/articleshow/71965535.cms

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: S Anandan Headline: New company on cards to manage Water Metro URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Kochi/new-company-on-cards-to- manage-water-metro/article29914094.ece

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Bangalore Page No: 19 Journalist: NA Headline: Contemporary case

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 4 Journalist: NA Headline: Piramal Group flouts eco norms, fined Rs. 8.3 cr URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2019/nov/09/piramal- group-flouts-eco-norms-fined-rs-83-crore-2059330.html

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 5 Journalist: Srikkanth.D Headline: Thrice in 5 months: Road sinks at Madhya Kailash

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Chronicle - Chennai Chronicle Edition: Chennai Page No: 31 Journalist: NA Headline: 'Cold-blooded focus'

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Chennai Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Headline: Single-minded focus, a mantra to sail through turbulent times: NS

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Asian Age Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: 'Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings dealt with it on and with cold-blooded focus took us to victory': N Srinivasan URL: https://www.asianage.com/sports/cricket/081119/dhoni-and-chennai-super-kings- dealt-with-it-on-and-with-cold-blooded-focus-took-us-to-victory-n-srinivasan.html

'Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings dealt with it on and with cold-blooded focus took us to victory': N Srinivasa

IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings made a successful comeback after a two-year ban because of the "cold-blooded focus" of its captain M S Dhoni and the team players, according to industrialist N Srinivasan, whose India Cements owns the franchise.

"Chennai Super Kings was hit by turbulence with a two-year ban and staged an ultimate comeback in 2018. Turbulence can hit anybody. But Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings dealt with it on merit and with cold-blooded focus took us to victory", he said.

Srinivasan, who is Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of India Cements was delivering the 37th Endowment Lecture on Leadership in Turbulent Times organised by IIT Madras and Employers' Federation of Southern India here on Thursday.

Chennai Super Kings, which has won IPL three times, was slapped with a two-year ban and re-entered the league in 2018.

In the 2019 edition, it lost the final by one run to Mumbai Indians.

Noting that turbulence has become an occupational hazard, he said one needs to have a clear focus and eye on the goals without responding to "adversities".

"There is turbulence every time and it can hit any individual, corporate, politics or party and any sphere. Do not challenge the shadows, lead by example, one wrong decision will put you back by 20 years", he said.

Addressing the students, he said "you need to sense the reality and deal with it factually. Determination and hard work are essence of success".

Technology was changing so fast and unless an individual recognises the turbulence and realises what was happening around, it will be difficult to survive RPT survive, he said.

EFSI President and Brakes India Joint MD, Srikanth Ramanujam said the endowment lecture was initiated by EFSI in 1972 when the Federation celebrated its golden jubilee and since then the lecture was organised every year in IIT Madras.

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: Deepa H. Ramakrishnan Professor: Prof. Shiva Nagendra Headline: City’s AQI tops 300 levels, no relief likely soon URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/citys-aqi-tops-300-levels-no-relief- likely-soon/article29926256.ece

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu - Metro Plus Edition: Kochi Page No: 2 Journalist: Athira M Headline: Under the Spell

Date: 9th November 2019 Publication: News Today Edition: Chennai Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Headline: ‘We chose to resist’

Date: 8th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Tamil Nadu got Rs 6,500 crore in investments last year: CM Edappadai L. Palaniswami URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/chennai-metro-2-0-stations-will- be-high-on-technology/articleshow/71964611.cms

Date: 10th November 2019 Publication: Your Story Edition: Online Journalist: NA Alumni: Siddhartha Headline: IIM alumni’s startup whips up good health in sugar-free fruit smoothies URL: https://yourstory.com/2019/11/iim-alumnis-startup-smoodies-sugar-free-fruit- smoothies

IIM alumni’s startup whips up good health in sugar-free fruit smoothies

With an aim to solve nutritional needs for the on-the-go working professional who is increasingly looking towards packaged foods for their day-to-day food, two IIM graduates Anusha Bhushan and Siddhartha Deb launched Smoodies, a healthy beverages startup, in 2016.

“Both Siddhartha and I are foodies. When we were management consultants we were on the lookout for products that were built on the pillars of integrity of ingredients, health, and taste. When we didn’t find them on shelves, or in the channels that suited our on- the-go lifestyle, we felt passionate about solving this need, and decided to create a brand that is built firmly on the principles of natural wellness. All our ingredients are natural, and we use no added sugar, preservatives, added colours or flavours in our products,” says Anusha Bhushan, Co-founder and CEO, Smoodies. Headquartered in Bengaluru, which houses its ISO-22000 manufacturing facility, Smoodies is built on the ethos of all- natural products. The brand houses two product ranges: fruit smoothies and juices. Smoodies Founders: Anusha Bhushan (L) and Siddhartha Deb Also Read This Gurugram startup aims to be the go-to platform for indie entertainment Its fruit smoothies range contains an Essentials range, which has flavours such as mango, guava, and berries, and the Plus range, which comprises jamun, litchi-aloe vera, and orange-peach. Its juices range includes a sugarcane juice, watermelon juice, aam ka panna (green mango juice), and a shikanji (lemonade). The Smoodies mission Smoodies’ mission, Anusha notes, is a simple one: to create products that are natural and high quality, and that consumers can trust don’t have any additives or added sugar. “We were also cognisant of the fact that to have consumers adopt healthy habits and products, we would have to pay equal importance to taste.

So we have a simple rule of thumb for all products that we create: if it cannot be made to taste good, with natural ingredients and in-line with our brand values, then we would rather not make the product than take a shortcut,” Anusha says. Besides on its own website, Smoodies is available across supermarkets, ecommerce platforms such as BigBasket, Swiggy, and Zomato, in offices, at restaurants, and in leisure and sports centres. “We chose Bengaluru as our base because both Siddhartha and I are from here. The Bengaluru market is also a great first market to launch in, since it contains a great cross- section of people from various cultures and parts of India,” Anusha says. Apart from Bengaluru, Smoodies has business operations in Mumbai and Delhi as well. Siddhartha and Anusha met at IIM Calcutta in 2012, while they were doing their MBA together. Besides their MBA degrees from IIM Calcutta, Anusha is a BSc (Hons) Economics from the London School of Economics, and Siddhartha has a BTech degree from IIT Madras. Siddhartha, who runs the operations at Smoodies, has worked in oil & gas engineering from McDermott, and management consulting at TSMG and Bain & Company. Anusha takes care of the sales, branding, and marketing, as well as spearheading new product development. She was an investment banker with Deutsche Bank in London, before returning to India. The startup’s team has 35 members across sales, marketing, and operation functions.

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Headline: Science Workshop

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof Shiv Nagendra Headline: Haze dissipates but city's air is still ‘poor URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/haze-dissipates-but-citys-air-is-still- poor/articleshow/71998590.cms

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 4 Journalist: NA Headline: The different Ball Game

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: Morning India Edition: Kolkata Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Headline: How to crack campus recruitment

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 1 Journalist: NA Headline: Events

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Piramal Group flouts eco norms, fined Rs 8.3 crore URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2019/nov/09/piramal- group-flouts-eco-norms-fined-rs-83-crore-2059330.html

Piramal Group flouts eco norms, fined Rs 8.3 crore

A sum of Rs 8.3 crore as ‘environmental compensation’ is to be levied on the pharmaceutical giant Piramal Enterprises for violation of environmental norms, recommended the joint committee of scientists from Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Telangana State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB), National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) and IIT Madras, that conducted an inspection in and around the company’s unit in Digwal, Sangareddy district following allegations of pollution.

The joint committee also conducted inspections at the units of meat exporting firm Frigerio Conserva Allana and fined it Rs 1.74 crore and also the solvent extraction oil unit, Shree Siddhi Vinayaka Agre Extractions Ltd, fining it Rs 14.2 lakh.

The committee was formed following the directions by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) earlier this year, as part of hearing of a petition filed by K Laxma Reddy, a resident of Sangareddy, alleging violation of environmental norms and causing of pollution by the units.

The NGT had directed the joint committee to uphold the ‘polluter pays’ principle and decide upon an amount, based on pre-decided formula, to calculate the environmental compensation. The inspections were conducted in September this year.

In its report, the joint committee mentions that the major violation found in case of Piramal Enterprises was the non-compliance regarding the lining of rainwater collection pits in its unit. Common chemical compounds were detected in the industrial effluent from the company, the pits and the groundwater, indicating that the company contaminated the groundwater with its effluents.

The period of this violation was for over a period of close to four years, from March 2015 when it was detected for the first time, till January 2019 - a span of 1,386 days. Using a set formula to calculate environmental compensation, the joint committee decided to impose a fine of Rs 60,000 per day for the 1,386 days.

Uphold ‘polluter pays’ principle, NGT to Committee

The joint committee was formed following the directions by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) earlier this year, as part of hearing of a petition filed by K Laxma Reddy, a resident of Sangareddy, alleging violation of environmental norms and causing of pollution by the units.

The NGT had directed the joint committee to uphold the ‘polluter pays’ principle and decide upon an amount, based on pre-decided formula, and to calculate the environmental compensation. The inspections were conducted in September this year.

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: India Herald Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: How CSK made a successful comeback in IPL URL: https://www.apherald.com/Sports/Read?id=413868

How CSK made a successful comeback in IPL chennai sources stated that IPL franchise chennai Super Kings made a successful comeback after a two-year ban because of the "cold-blooded focus" of its captain M S dhoni and the team players, according to industrialist N Srinivasan, whose india Cements owns the franchise. He said "Chennai Super Kings was hit by turbulence with a two-year ban and staged an ultimate comeback in 2018. Turbulence can hit anybody. But dhoni and chennai Super Kings dealt with it on merit and with cold-blooded focus took us to victory".

Image result for How CSK made a successful comeback in IPL?

Reportedly Srinivasan, who is Vice-Chairman and Managing director of india Cements was delivering the 37th Endowment Lecture on Leadership in Turbulent Times organized by IIT madras and Employers' Federation of Southern india here on Thursday. Perhaps chennai Super Kings, which has won IPL three times, was slapped with a two-year ban and re-entered the league in 2018.

Moreover in the 2019 edition, it lost the final by one run to mumbai indians and further noting that turbulence has become an occupational hazard, he said one needs to have a clear focus and eye on the goals without responding to "adversities". He said "There is turbulence every time and it can hit any individual, corporate, politics or party and any sphere. Do not challenge the shadows, lead by example, one wrong decision will put you back by 20 years". When addressing the students, he said "you need to sense the reality and deal with it factually. Determination and hard work are essence of success".

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: For third time in 5 months, road caves-in near Madhya Kailash URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/for-third-time-in-5-months-road- caves-in-near-madhya-kailash/articleshow/71976376.cms

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: Your Story Edition: Online Journalist: Sujata Sangwan Headline: IIM alumni’s startup whips up good health in sugar-free fruit smoothies URL: https://yourstory.com/2019/11/iim-alumnis-startup-smoodies-sugar-free-fruit- smoothies

IIM alumni’s startup whips up good health in sugar-free fruit smoothies With an aim to solve nutritional needs for the on-the-go working professional who is increasingly looking towards packaged foods for their day-to-day food, two IIM graduates Anusha Bhushan and Siddhartha Deb launched Smoodies, a healthy beverages startup, in 2016. “Both Siddhartha and I are foodies. When we were management consultants we were on the lookout for products that were built on the pillars of integrity of ingredients, health, and taste. When we didn’t find them on shelves, or in the channels that suited our on-the-go lifestyle, we felt passionate about solving this need, and decided to create a brand that is built firmly on the principles of natural wellness. All our ingredients are natural, and we use no added sugar, preservatives, added colours or flavours in our products,” says Anusha Bhushan, Co-founder and CEO, Smoodies. Headquartered in Bengaluru, which houses its ISO-22000 manufacturing facility, Smoodies is built on the ethos of all-natural products. The brand houses two product ranges: fruit smoothies and juices. Smoodies Founders: Anusha Bhushan (L) and Siddhartha Deb

Also Read This Gurugram startup aims to be the go-to platform for indie entertainment Its fruit smoothies range contains an Essentials range, which has flavours such as mango, guava, and berries, and the Plus range, which comprises jamun, litchi-aloe vera, and orange-peach. Its juices range includes a sugarcane juice, watermelon juice, aam ka panna (green mango juice), and a shikanji (lemonade). The Smoodies mission Smoodies’ mission, Anusha notes, is a simple one: to create products that are natural and high quality, and that consumers can trust don’t have any additives or added sugar. “We were also cognisant of the fact that to have consumers adopt healthy habits and products, we would have to pay equal importance to taste. So we have a simple rule of thumb for all products that we create: if it cannot be made to taste good, with natural ingredients and in-line with our brand values, then we would rather not make the product than take a shortcut,” Anusha says. Besides on its own website, Smoodies is available across supermarkets, ecommerce platforms such as BigBasket, Swiggy, and Zomato, in offices, at restaurants, and in leisure and sports centres. “We chose Bengaluru as our base because both Siddhartha and I are from here. The Bengaluru market is also a great first market to launch in, since it contains a great cross-section of people from various cultures and parts of India,” Anusha says. Apart from Bengaluru, Smoodies has business operations in Mumbai and Delhi as well.

Siddhartha and Anusha met at IIM Calcutta in 2012, while they were doing their MBA together. Besides their MBA degrees from IIM Calcutta, Anusha is a BSc (Hons) Economics from the London School of Economics, and Siddhartha has a BTech degree from IIT Madras. Siddhartha, who runs the operations at Smoodies, has worked in oil & gas engineering from McDermott, and management consulting at TSMG and Bain & Company. Anusha takes care of the sales, branding, and marketing, as well as spearheading new product development. She was an investment banker with Deutsche Bank in London, before returning to India. The startup’s team has 35 members across sales, marketing, and operation functions.

Date: 11th November 2019 Publication: Cric Tracker Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: MS Dhoni’s cold-blooded focus took Chennai Super Kings to victory: N Srinivasan URL: https://www.crictracker.com/ms-dhonis-cold-blooded-focus-took-chennai-super- kings-to-victory-n-srinivasan/

MS Dhoni’s cold-blooded focus took Chennai Super Kings to victory: N Srinivasan

Chennai Super Kings is one of the most successful teams of IPL. They are one of the rarest franchises that got the privilege in order to play in the playoffs in every season they featured. They also got suspended by the RM Lodha committee for a period of two years from the league. But, CSK marked their return with a title win in 2018 followed by the final that they played in the previous season.

The Chennai-based franchise is led by MS Dhoni, who is regarded as one of the best skippers across the globe. They have won three IPL titles under his captaincy. During a lecture, N Srinivasan, the owner of CSK franchise and former President of BCCI, hailed the former Indian skipper and players of the team for their cold-blooded focus.

MS Dhoni and players dealt with everything on their merit: N Srinivasan On Thursday, Srinivasan addressed students in an event organized by IIT Madras and explained the success story of his team. During the lecture, he said that CSK was hit with turbulence as it got suspended for two years. Later on, they remained successful in making a commendable come back into the league by winning the title. As per him, it can happen with anyone but, everyone along with MS Dhoni and other team players dealt with it on their merit. In the end, their cold-blooded focus led us to victory.

“Chennai Super Kings was hit by turbulence with two- year ban and staged an ultimate comeback in 2018. Turbulence can hit anybody. But Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings dealt with it on merit and with cold-blooded focus took us to victory,” CSK owner said during his lecture as quoted by Times of India.

The 74-year-old also recited that everyone should deal with the matters on realistic grounds. And, if anyone wants success then having strong determination and working hard are the essential parts of it that should be brought under the work.

“There is turbulence every time and it can hit any individual, corporate, politics or party and any sphere. Do not challenge the shadows, lead by example, one wrong decision will put you back by 20 years. You need to sense the reality and deal with it factually. Determination and hard work are the essences of success,” he added.

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Mumbai Page No: 4 Journalist: Yogita Rao Headline: Internship offers for '20-21 flood IITs URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/internship-offers-for-20-21-flood- iits/articleshow/72012912.cms

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Chronicle Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: Entrepreneurship summit at IIT-M in Dec. first-week

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: The News Minute Edition: Online Journalist: Priyanka Trimurthy Professor: Dr. Shiva Nagendra Headline: TN govt blames Chennai’s rising air pollution on Cyclone Bulbul and faulty meters URL: https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tn-govt-blames-chennai-s-rising-air- pollution-cyclone-bulbul-and-faulty-meters-112140

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Mumbai Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Headline: India will be net innovator exporter of defense technology

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: Sindhu Hariharan Headline: National Entrepreneurship Awards 2019: Three startups from Tamil Nadu get awards URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/national- entrepreneurship-awards-2019-three-startups-from-tamil-nadu-get- awards/articleshow/72007682.cms

National Entrepreneurship Awards 2019: Three startups from Tamil Nadu get awards

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 4 Journalist: A Ragu Raman Headline: DOTE fiat will help engineers get first-hand job experience URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/dote-fiat-will-help-engineers-get- first-hand-job-experience/articleshow/72013934.cms

Date: 12th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Kalpana Karunakaran Headline: Paati’s story across five decades URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/12/paatis-story- across-five-decades-2060380.html

Date: 13th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Contractors blame govt. for delay in reopening flyover

Date: 13th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 1&9 Journalist: NA Headline: Internship offers for 20-21 flood IITs

Date: 13th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. SM Shiva Nagendra Headline: Chennai air pollution: Normalcy returns, but challenges remain URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/13/chennai-air- pollution-normalcy-returns-but-challenges-remain-2060813.html

Chennai air pollution: Normalcy returns, but challenges remain

Normalcy returned on Tuesday as Chennai Air Quality Index (AQI) has recorded an impressive 62. As per National Ambient Air Quality Standard, AQI between 51-100 is considered 'satisfactory'.

Although PM 2.5 concentration has occasionally peaked to unhealthy levels, the AQI in Alandur, Velachery and Manali has remained within limits. But, experts feel the past one week's poor air quality should act as a wake-up call for State government to retrospect and initiate corrective measures.

Noted environmentalist Chandra Bhushan, former deputy head of Centre for Science and Environment, told Express that unlike earlier many cities in South India are recording high pollution levels. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) has in fact recognised the fact that air pollution is not just a Delhi-specific problem, but affecting cities across India. "The proposed adequate and increased monitoring to be in place to be able to determine status and trends of air quality."

However, Chennai is the only major metropolitan city in the country that has been excluded from NCAP. From Tamil Nadu, Thoothukudi makes the list of 102 non-attainment cities, which are considered to be most polluted with respect to ambient air. Other important metros like Bengaluru, Mumbai,New Delhi,Pune, Kolkata and Hyderabad are all among the non-attainment cities.

Chennai also has poor network of Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS). There three stations maintained by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and five are installed by Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), which are yet to come into operation fully. Chennai would need at least 30 stations.

SM Shiva Nagendra of Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Madras told Express that Chennai air can turn toxic under unfavorable weather conditions, which was evident last week. "This calls for stringent enforcement of pollution norms. Emission from a cluster of thermal power plant in Ennore, vehicular pollution, particulate matter from construction sites and bad roads are all contributing factors."

In India, air pollution is the third highest cause of death among all health risks, ranking just above smoking; each year, more people globally die from air pollution-related disease than from road traffic injuries or malaria. Exposure to outdoor and indoor air pollution contributed to over 1.2 million deaths in India in 2017, according to a global study. On average the study - State of Global Air 2019 (SOGA2019) - reported that the life of a South Asian child born today will be shortened by 2 years and 6 months (over two years) growing up in current high levels of air pollution, while the global life expectancy loss is 20 months.

The World Health Organisation’s database on air pollution over the years has listed Tier I and Tier II Indian cities as some of the most polluted places in the world. In 2018, 14 out of the 15 most polluted cities were in India. Also, the Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health - led by Philip Landrigan - ranked India as number one on premature mortality and deaths related to air pollution.

Date: 13th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: V Ayyappana Headline: Your wait by runway before take-off may come down soon URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/your-wait-by-runway-before- take-off-may-come-down-soon/articleshow/72029734.cms

Date: 13th November 2019 Publication: Your Story Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: MSDE presents NEAs to 30 entrepreneurs, 6 organizations URL: https://yourstory.com/2019/11/msde-national-entrepreneurship-awards

MSDE presents NEAs to 30 entrepreneurs, 6 organizations

Date: 13th November 2019 Publication: Nature Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Who shrank the drug factory? Briefcase-sized labs could transform medicine URL: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-019-03455-x

Who shrank the drug factory? Briefcase-sized labs could transform medicine

Govind Rao greets visitors to his lab just outside Baltimore with two things: a warm handshake and a chart. Almost before introductions are complete, Rao ushers guests into his windowless office at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), and pulls up a graph on his battered laptop. On it, a steeply sloping line charts health spending in the United States over the past 40 years.

“It just goes up and up. How many lives is this costing?” he asks.

Rao’s solution sits in a sleek, stainless-steel briefcase on a table across from his desk. He pops the latch and flips open the lid to reveal a series of interconnected, fist-sized black boxes. They are filled with vials the size of a paper clip, fed by syringes and joined by clear plastic tubes not much thicker than a human hair. Add a source of electricity, some freeze-dried cell parts and a pinch of DNA, and the portable devices allow anyone to start making sophisticated drugs for just a few dollars. The system is called Bio-MOD, or Biologic Medications on Demand, and Rao says that it has the potential to change the direction of the precipitous curve on his laptop.

Rao isn’t alone. Teams at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in Richmond, and hospitals in Latin America and Europe have all been experimenting with producing on-demand pharmaceuticals. Their prototype systems represent a complete reinvention of drug manufacturing.

Historically, the pharmaceutical industry has relied on economies of scale, mixing hundreds of litres of reagents in massive reaction chambers to make millions of doses of a single drug. Bio-MOD and related systems, however, cycle small amounts of chemicals through a series of thumb-sized chambers that can produce hundreds or thousands of doses of multiple drugs, all in less than 24 hours. Several teams have won support for this vision from the US military: the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has handed out more than US$15 million to support these do-it-yourself drug-makers.

Stewpots and string: how scientists make do

“It’s crazy but rational,” says Geoff Ling, a former DARPA project manager, who helped to initiate some of the grants and sees these systems as crucial for physicians working in some of the world’s most challenging environments. He likens the devices to 3D printers that will assemble drugs such as antibiotics, antibodies to treat autoimmune conditions or insulin for diabetes. Their portability should increase the ability to deliver much-needed drugs to people affected by war or disaster.

Sceptics say Bio-MOD is an interesting idea, but would require an overhaul of the drug regulatory bureaucracy. And both Rao’s team and the one at MIT have struggled to purify their final products to match batch-produced medications. Plus, the machines themselves cost millions of dollars, putting them out of reach — at least for now — for many who would need them. The question is whether engineers such as Rao can overcome these hurdles

Claudia Vaca González, a pharmacologist at the National University of Colombia in Bogotá, hopes that they will. “The top ten most expensive drugs in our country are biotherapeutics for cancer,” she says. “These drugs have always been unaffordable for developing countries, and now they’re becoming unaffordable even for the richest countries

Ingenuity and thrift

Rao describes himself as an engineer and inventor, but he likes to use a third word, too. “I’m cheap,” he says, laughing with the sheepish pride of someone who has kept his ageing Toyota minivan on the road for some 300,000 kilometres

Ingenuity and thrift seem to run in the family. Rao’s grandfather scrimped and saved for years to make the long journey from what was then Madras, India, to London to take the British civil service exam in 1927. Although he passed, the United Kingdom had filled its quota of Indian employees and turned him away. Instead, Rao’s grandfather enrolled at University College London to study engineering. Money was tight, and he recorded his income and expenses in a small diary that Rao still keeps in his top desk drawer. Carefully opening the book, now missing its black leather cover, Rao reveals yellowed pages bearing an elegant script. The entries cover everything from the cost of books (£5) to a hot bath (2 shillings). His grandfather eventually returned to India, passing on his cost consciousness and love of engineering. When Rao was a teenager in the late 1970s, he built his first radio by scavenging parts from electronics stores; it proved to be both cheaper and more reliable than commercial models. By the time he enrolled at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Madras (now Chennai), it seemed a forgone conclusion that he would become an enginee

Both at the IIT and while pursuing his PhD in chemical engineering at Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Rao thrived in an environment in which he had the resources to design sensors for chemical reactions. But what was missing from the work was any attempt to address the cost of these devices. Thinking back to the desperate poverty he saw in India, he knew technology wasn’t any good if no one could afford it. After completing his PhD in 1987, Rao was hired by the Center for Advanced Sensor Technology (CAST) at the UMBC, where he’s been ever since. Over the past three decades, he has devoted himself to creating low-cost chemical sensors and using them and other homespun creations, to solve real-world problems. His inventions include a disposable cardboard incubator for premature babies, which he’s currently testing in a clinical trial in India, and a wearable fluorescent blood-glucose sensor for people with diabetes in the Philippines.

Govind Rao holding his grandfather's diary chronicling his path to engineering

Rao keeps a diary that his grandfather used to track expenses during his time in graduate school.Credit: Rosem Morton for Natur

“He has all of these crazy ideas,” says Leah Tolosa, Rao’s colleague and assistant director at CAST. “Working with him is very unpredictable but also very comfortable.

Even their laboratory space reflects the centre’s cost-conscious ethos. Situated in a residential neighbourhood of squat, brick post-war houses, CAST occupies the basement of a small building that was a juvenile detention centre in the early twentieth century. Rao’s lab sits in its former kitchen and is cluttered with ageing equipment and half-built designs. It was in this space that Rao cooked up the gadget he’s proudest of, an invention which was born out of conversations with Ling, whom he first met in 2012

In 2003, as a US Army physician in Bagram, Afghanistan, Ling often had trouble procuring medication for the soldiers and civilians he was treating. He remembers in particular one US soldier with a head injury, whose blood pressure and pulse were unstable. It was a condition easily treated with a generic drug called bromocriptine. But the hospital didn’t have any. To save his patient, Ling asked the US Air Force to fly in the drug from Landstuhl in Germany

“The medication was cheap, but it cost a fortune in jet fuel,” he says Ling, who has a PhD in pharmacology, was convinced that there had to be a better way to deliver drugs to the front lines. He realized that, with the right recipe and ingredients, he could probably cook up his own bromocriptine. The idea stuck with him when he moved to DARPA in 2004. And in 2012, when he was asked to head DARPA’s new biotechnology division, he decided to try to make it a reality. Ling started reaching out to labs with a tall order: to create a portable pharmacy that can produce 1,000 doses of high-quality pharmaceuticals within 24 hours

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Ling divided the challenge into two categories: one for small-molecule drugs created through classical organic chemistry, and one for biologic drugs which are typically made by living cells. A team of engineers at MIT immediately took the lead on a small-molecule system, one that was later handed off to the lab of synthetic organic chemist Thomas Roper at VCU. To Roper, who moved there after 22 years at drug maker GlaxoSmithKline, the DARPA contract was an opportunity to force radical change in a typically conservative industr

“It was a huge challenge,” Roper says. “We had to figure out whether the system was suitable for making drugs for humans.”

For Rao, the quest had a personal edge. He had recently watched a colleague face bankruptcy trying to pay for a cancer medication for his wife, a biologic agent known as granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF), which helps to replenish the body’s supply of white blood cell

As a chemical engineer, Rao thought he could find a better, cheaper way to make prescription drugs. After reading about DARPA’s interest in on-demand biologics, he called Ling to learn more. But Rao was also hesitant. The number of moving parts that have to function flawlessly, in tandem, every time, for such a system to work was staggering. Sensing Rao’s trepidation, Ling shared his secondary dream for the project: to provide an alternative, lower-priced source of life-saving medication.

Rao sat up straighter. The project satisfied both his idealist streak and his inner cheapskate. He remembers pausing, thinking of his colleague’s struggle with the prices set by drug companies, then replying, “Let’s put them out of busines

Assembly line

Pharmaceuticals on demand is an idea that requires rethinking drug manufacturing from the ground up. Ever since mass production of medicines began, manufacturers have relied on batch chemistry. For common drugs that are stable at room temperature and have a long shelf life, it was — and still is — the most economical way to produce drugs. But the strategy has drawbacks. It tends to be both time consuming and centralized, because corporations synthesize or purchase chemical precursors, ship them to a large plant, perform more reactions in massive vats, then process, purify and analyse the final product. Only then can a drug meet the standards of quality and purity set by agencies such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Managing the vagaries of intercontinental supply chains and regulations means it can take more than 12 months for a medication to reach store shelves. Ramping up production to help in crisis situations isn’t always possible, and the system is prone to disruption if a single piece of the chain fails. But over the past decade, pharmaceutical chemists have been investing in an alternativ

Known as continuous-flow synthesis, this strategy involves pumping two or more reagents through a series of microchambers connected by thin, flexible tubes. This creates an uninterrupted succession of reactions as the chemicals move through the system. Various sensors monitor the progress and purity of the reactions, altering the flow and amounts of reagents to optimize conditions. MIT synthetic biologist and engineer Timothy Lu compares it to the assembly line that revolutionized industrial manufacturing a century ago.

“It’s trying to push the envelope on how quickly we can do things,” Lu says. “Continuous flow also has the advantage of being able to monitor quality over time.

The only way to meet DARPA’s desire for portability and 24-hour turnaround was to use continuous-flow processin

By 2016, the small-molecule team at MIT had created a refrigerator-sized unit with two modules. The first contains components that can be snapped in and out, like a coffee pod, to synthesize one of four different medications: diphenhydramine, an antihistamine; the anaesthetic lidocaine; diazepam, a sedative, and the antidepressant fluoxetine. The second module purifies the compound and processes it into a solution that can be given to people. In 2018, Roper came aboard, and the process moved to VCU for further improvements. Once in Virginia, the group shifted its focus to producing tablets of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin

DARPA’s requirements, Roper says, made the task technically challenging. “We couldn’t have any impurities greater than 0.1%, which is an extremely high barrier to meet,” he says. Date: 14th November 2019 Publication: Business Insider Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: This Indian startup gains as students from Tier 2 and 3 cities opt for online digital courses URL: https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/upgrad-has-almost-half-ofits-online-learner-base-in-tier-2-and-tier-3-cities/articleshow/72036958.cms

Date: 14th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. SM Shivanagendra Headline: Normalcy returns, but challenges remain URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/13/chennai-air- pollution-normalcy-returns-but-challenges-remain-2060813.html

Date: 15th November 2019 Publication: Indus Dictum Edition: Online Journalist: NA Student: Ms. Fathima Latif Headline: TiE Mumbai launches ‘TiE Academy’ for startup mentoring & entrepreneurship URL: https://indusdictum.com/2019/11/14/tie-mumbai-launches-tie-academy-for- startup-mentoring-entrepreneurship/

TiE Mumbai launches ‘TiE Academy’ for startup mentoring & entrepreneurship

The Mumbai chapter of entrepreneurship organisation TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) has announced the launch of ‘TiE Academy,’ a training and mentorship initiative for entrepreneurs and startups. Atul Nishar, President of TiE Mumbai, says that the training program is “designed by entrepreneurs themselves to provide training and mentoring all year round.” The program aims to equip new business founders with processes and training that enhance their capacity and willingness to move ahead in their entrepreneurial journey while making their ventures profitable and sustainable, says the organisation.

Participants at TiE Academy will receive mentorship from other entrepreneurs committed to fostering entrepreneurship. They will have opportunities to attend a range of programs to develop skills relevant to various aspects of business in all stages of startup and growth of the venture.

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TiE says the program will enable entrepreneurs to develop effective sales execution skills and training that guarantees business results. During the program, a confidential ‘Capacity & Willingness’ psychometric score will be maintained for each participant enabling personalised mentoring and progress tracking, which will measure entrepreneurship improvement. A mix of theory and field work will be employed to add value to entrepreneurial learning.

The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), was founded in 1992 in Silicon Valley by a group of entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and professionals with roots in the Indus region. TiE Mumbai is already involved in promoting, mentoring, helping, and funding startups in Mumbai and other Indian cities. Founder of Mastek, Ashank Desai, and CEO of Retail Market Movers, Dinkar Suri, are the Co-chairs of TiE Academy.

The country has experienced remarkable growth in the number of new businesses in the past few years – something of a startup boom. Recognising that India has the third largest pool of startups globally, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu commented that these are constructive disruptions in the economy.

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In the last week alone, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh awarded Rs 3 crore to two startups, while Union Minister for Entrepreneurship Mahendra Nath Pandey conferred the National Entrepreneurship Awards for which over 6,000 startups submitted applications.

Other members of Government, including the Science & Tech Minister Harsh Vardhan, are urging students to engage in entrepreneurship. Only a week before before Vardhan said that, researchers at IIT-Madras announced they have developed an AI software that can solve engineering problems and will be founding a startup around it.

Entrepreneurs are also receiving support from their own community, with OYO South Asia CEO Aditya Ghosh investing in startup speaker agency SpeakIn. Most recently, eBikeGo, an electric two-wheeler rental platform providing fleet solutions for last mile delivery to companies like Zomato and Delhivery raised $300,000 in funding.

Indian startups are getting global recognition too, with Hyderabad-based baby- healthcare startup ‘NemoCare’ winning the Asia Hardware Battle in China.

Date: 15th November 2019 Publication: Nav Hind Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Student: Ms. Fathima Latif Headline: Students of BITS Pilani, Goa Campus adjudged second runners-up at NTPC Electron Quiz ’19 URL: http://www.navhindtimes.in/students-of-bits-pilani-goa-campus-adjudged-second- runners-up-at-ntpc-electron-quiz-19/

Students of BITS Pilani, Goa Campus adjudged second runners-up at NTPC Electron Quiz ’19

BITS Pilani, K K Birla Goa Campus students Lucky Kaul and Shiv Kumar secured the National second runners-up position at the 16th edition of NTPC Electron Quiz ’19 held at Power Management Institute, Noida.

The national finals were a close competition till the end with IIT Madras securing the top honours. BITS Pilani, Goa Campus qualified for the national finals by emerging as one of the winners of the Western Regionals held at Mumbai. This edition of the quiz saw 1,132 registrations across six cities with participation from 566 teams.

Directors of NTPC, Saptarshi Roy and Prakash Tiwari awarded prizes to winners. The Electron Quiz initiated in the year 2004 and since then has connected with young minds intending to develop a healthy learning and development culture. The national finals were also telecasted on ET Now.

Date: 16th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Weeding out black hole mimickers by looking at gravitational waves URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/weeding-out-black-hole-mimickers- by-looking-at-gravitational-waves/article29993235.ece

Weeding out black hole mimickers by looking at gravitational waves

In September 2015, the LIGO detectors in the US made history by directly detecting for the first time the merging of two black holes. Since then, LIGO, joined by other detectors around the world, has gone on to detect eleven events of which one is the merger of two neutron stars and the remaining ten, of pairs of black holes (binary black holes).

As they spiralled in towards each other and merged, the binary black holes let off characteristic gravitational wave signals. The properties of the merging black holes, namely the masses and spins could be arrived at by looking at the initial part of the signal waveform. Similarly, by carefully looking at the tail end – also known as the ring down part of the signal, the mass and spin of the final merged state (black hole) can be inferred.

The question emerges – whether other exotic objects exist that may act as black hole mimickers and give off similar signals. And if so, how is one to distinguish between such spinning black holes and exotic objects?

Theoretically, there are possibilities such as the so-called gravastars and boson stars which are black hole mimickers. For instance, a gravastar is a strange object that would have a core of exotic matter resembling dark energy with an external shell of normal star-like matter. “There are no observational evidences for their existence till date, but then, there were not too many ways in which one could look for them. Gravitational waves could be one…” says K. G. Arun, Chennai Mathematical Institute, Chennai, who led the study.

Date: 16th November 2019 Publication: Orissa Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Innocule Materials And Additives Pvt. Ltd. from Odisha bags National Entrepreneurship Awards 2019 URL: https://orissadiary.com/innocule-materials-additives-pvt-ltd-odisha-bags-national- entrepreneurship-awards-2019/

Innocule Materials And Additives Pvt. Ltd. from Odisha bags National Entrepreneurship Awards 2019

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) conferred awards to 30 Young entrepreneurs and six organizations and individuals who have contributed in entrepreneurship development duringthe fourth edition of the National Entrepreneurship Awards (NEA). The awards are part of the government’s initiatives to encourage entrepreneurship in the country.

Innocule Materials And Additives Pvt. Ltd. founded by GyanaRanjan Das and SurbhiSarna won the award in A2 category which recognizes companies with an initial investment from Rs 1 lakh to 10 lakhs. They wonRs. 5 lakhsalong with a trophy and a certificate. The company won the award under the ‘chemicals’category as they manufacturespecialty chemicals and performance aids for the mineral industry.

The award ceremony was held at the PravasiBharatiya Kendra, New Delhi on November 9thand was graced by Dr. MahendraNath Pandey, Hon’ble Minister of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, who has been spearheading the Ministry’s vision and focusing extensively on encouraging young skilled youth to take up entrepreneurship bringing the shift from being a job seeker to a job giver.

Speaking on the entrepreneurial growth culture in India, Dr. MahendraNath Pandey, Hon’ble Minister of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, said, “Today, India is at a threshold of a startup boom, as we have the world’s third fastestgrowing startup ecosystem. With 7,200 startups, India is close behind the UK with 11,864startups and catching up to the US which had 41,500 startups as of 2018.India is changing and soare the aspirations of its people. This is evidence of drastic improvement in the business environment, fueled by the innovative modules of business that the youth of the country are coming up with. It is our priority to give the right kind of support to the aspiring talent and nurture and encourage our young minds to dream big and achieve bigger.”

“NEA is a great platform to encourage young aspiring entrepreneurs and recognize the exemplary work that they have done adding to their professional and nation’s overall growth. I wish all of them the very best for their future and hope they further motivate many more to be a part of India’s growth story,” he further added.

Innocule has several years of expertise in dealing with speciality chemicals. The company started in 2008 as Unisol. It is one of the leading providers of grinding aids and performance improvers for the cement industry. Innocule was founded in 2014 with a view to diversify into the mineral additive business. They cater to the need of the Indian mineral sector. They have an extensive range of products which have been developed by their in-house R&D facility. They also have collaborations with several reputed labs across India.

For the successful execution of the National Entrepreneurship Awards 2019, MSDE partnered with twelve premier institutes and organization which are spread across the country, including IIT Madras (Lead Partner), IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur, XLRI, TISS, NSIC, IIT Guwahati, IRMA, MANAGE, NIF (Co-Lead), NABARD, and RSETI. These institutions were responsible for mobilizing nominations and evaluation process.

Date: 16th News Publication: University World News Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Can domestic rankings be a springboard to global success? URL: https://www.universityworldnews.com/post.php?story=20191115102558549

Can domestic rankings be a springboard to global success? The growing competition among universities for rankings places, and in particular the rise of Asia, can be seen in the recent Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. This is part of a broader push in the region towards more knowledge intensive, innovative economies and societies.

There are 1,396 ranked universities in the latest THE rankings, up from 1,258 the previous year. The Chinese share of ranked universities has doubled, from 5% in 2016 to almost 10% in the latest rankings. India has correspondingly increased its share from 2% to 4%.

India’s best ranked institution is in the 301-350 range, a solid rather than spectacular effort, and the bulk of its institutions are ranked in the lower reach of the rankings spectrum. Nonetheless, the growing engagement of Indian institutions is important, and time will tell whether India can continue both to push up the rankings and have more entrants in an increasingly crowded space.

Rankings with an Indian flavour

The latest results prompt an interesting question about how significant Indian domestic rankings have been in the country’s performance internationally and what the possible relationship might be between domestic and global rankings.

In 2016 India began its own domestic rankings. Although some methodological changes have been made over time, the metrics for the latest domestic rankings include:

• • Teaching, Learning and Resources, covering numbers of doctoral students, permanent faculty, faculty with PhDs and experience, financial resources and their utilisation, including capital and operational expenditure per student.

• • Research and Professional Practice, covering publications, citations in the top 25th percentile of publications, patents and research and consultancy income.

• • Graduate Outcomes, such as pass rates and the number of PhD graduates.

• • Outreach and Inclusivity, covering mobility from other states and countries, the percentage of female students and staff who are economically and socially challenged cohorts and the availability of facilities for the physically challenged.

• • Perception, covering academic and employer reputation.

The Indian domestic ranking has much in common with the main global rankings, but it has a particular Indian flavour. For example, metrics around doctoral students, publications and reputation are standard and common to the global rankings.

Importantly, the India-specific aspect is reflected in the outreach and inclusivity elements aimed at enhancing female participation in higher education (and the broader labour force, where their number is very low), and catering to the economically and socially disadvantaged, which is vital in a country with such immense inequality of opportunity.

Interestingly, compared to the global rankings, there is an emphasis on patents as being the more downstream orientation of research, reflecting the need for practical, tangible, solutions-driven approaches to research and innovation.

Also of interest is the resourcing per student metric. This is an important signpost to institutions to manage their operations efficiently and effectively and to provide students with adequate facilities. Arguably, it is also a commentary on the waste in the system.

After what could be described as a pilot in 2016, the domestic ranking has taken off in subsequent years. The number of participating institutions has increased from 724 in 2017 to 957 in 2018 and 1,479 in 2019 as institutions have become more familiar with engaging with rankings. The top 200 ranked institutions are published. There are also discipline- specific rankings.

Dominance of a few institutions

What do the results of the Indian rankings tell us? First, they reinforce the dominance of the esteemed Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) and the Indian Institute of Science (IIS), those small, research-oriented institutions, famous for cutting-edge research and producing many high-flying graduates, a number of whom have become leading members of the Indian diaspora abroad.

Eight out of the top 10 positions in the latest domestic rankings are held by IITs or the IIS, a position largely unchanged over the few years since the rankings were established. IIT Madras and the IIS have consistently held the top two positions. These institutions are also well represented in the global rankings.

Comparing the domestic rankings with the THE ranking, we note that nearly all of the Indian institutions that are and have been ranked in the THE ranking are found in the top 100 of the domestic rankings, with a strong clustering inside the top 50. This suggests that these institutions are strong and competitive at home and abroad.

It should be noted that a number of the institutions in the top 100 in India are at the lower end of the global rankings, suggesting that best practice is still some way off. The concordance between the domestic and international rankings is also a reflection of the commonality of a number of metrics.

Interestingly, there are a few institutions that are ranked in the international rankings but not in the domestic rankings.

This could be because they fall outside the top 200 domestically (given that the results of only 200 are published) or that they don’t meet the thresholds for domestic participation (or choose not to participate) because they may not be broad-based enough in their course offerings or that, while strong in the metrics that underpin the THE rankings, they may not be strong in the ‘India specific’ type metrics, such as the outreach and inclusivity.

Learning from experience

It is also worth comparing the new Indian entrants in the THE rankings for 2020 with the 2018 rankings. There are more than 15 new Indian entrants in the latest THE rankings compared to that of two years ago. Of these new entrants, almost all have improved their domestic rankings over the two-year time period, and in some cases very significantly by more than 25 places.

Thus, improvement at home has been a springboard to inclusion in the global rankings, through capability building, learning from others and greater experience and expertise in developing more quality offerings and research.

Further, experience in actually going through the mechanics of preparing rankings submissions at home holds these institutions in good stead for participation and engagement in the global rankings.

Overall, the domestic ranking in India has been and is important for India as it modernises and reforms its higher education scene. There are also some learnings for the global rankings schema. Perhaps there is some scope for criteria in the global rankings around efficient resource use (beyond the student-staff ratio) or more ‘inclusivity and access’ measures modelled on the Indian approach.

Of course, data issues abound globally that could constrain comparisons. Nonetheless, it is instructive that THE, through its University Impact Rankings, is addressing some of these inclusivity measures and it is not a great surprise that Indian institutions have performed reasonably strongly in the most recent THE University Impact Rankings.

Date: 18th November 2019 Publication: Indus Dictum Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Delhi-based youth hostel startup ‘goStops’ raises funding; Invests in operations, marketing, tech URL: https://indusdictum.com/2019/11/18/delhi-based-youth-hostel-startup-gostops- raises-funding-invests-in-operations-marketing-tech/

Delhi-based youth hostel startup ‘goStops’ raises funding; Invests in operations, marketing, tech

Delhi-based chain of youth traveller hostels goStops has raised an undisclosed amount of funds as part of its recent funding round. GoStops has about 800 beds in 13 Indian cities and plans to expand by doubling their bed capacity in the next 12 months. GoStops will utilize the funds to enhance its product offerings through investments in technology & training, adding new revenue streams, strengthening its marketing, and building a team to handle the next phase of growth.

GoStops says it is a “full stack” youth traveller hostel provider. The company leases, manages and franchises real estate assets to design, market, sell and operate youth hostels under its brand in locations that young travellers visit for business or leisure.

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The chain provides air-conditioned dorms and private rooms, a front desk service, a 24×7 cafe, and the hostels also offer facilities like mini theatre, entertainment centres with foosball & pool tables, work & lounges in common areas, and activities to socialize and explore the destination together with fellow travellers.

“Currently, short stay options (hotels, guest houses and such) available within youth budget are of poor and unpredictable quality, and not youth friendly. We aim to solve this problem by offering travellers hostels which are high quality, affordable, and social,” says Pallavi Agarwal, Co-Founder & CEO of goStops.

“A growing number of youth prefer community living (fostering growth of co-living and co-working) and they are willing to share rooms and facilities for greater quality accommodation. GoStops plans to cater to the rapidly growing aspirational demands of the youth in this category,” she added.

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The round saw participation from the founder of Nazara Games, Nitish Mittersain; Ex-MD of Copal Partners, Sorabh Agarwal; Founder of Smart Cube, Sameer Walia; Co-founder of dimdim.com, Rohit Shankar; and Owner of South Handlooms, Sunil Kumar Singhvi, amongst others.

Just a few days ago, the Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Mahendra Nath Pandey also invited applications from students & entrepreneurs for IndiaSkills 2020, a biennial competition to scout talent from the country, and conferred the National Entrepreneurship Awards for which over 6,000 startups submitted applications.

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Earlier in November, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh awarded Rs 3 crore to two startups, while other members of Government, including the Science & Tech Minister Harsh Vardhan, are urging students to engage in entrepreneurship.

Only a week before before Vardhan said that, researchers at IIT-Madras announced they have developed an AI software that can solve engineering problems and will be founding a startup around it.

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On 14 November, TiE Mumbai also launched ‘TiE Academy’ for startup mentoring & entrepreneurship, aiming to equip new business founders with processes & training that enhance their capacity to move ahead in the entrepreneurial journey while making their ventures profitable & sustainable.

Indian startups are getting global recognition too, with Hyderabad-based baby- healthcare startup ‘NemoCare’ winning the Asia Hardware Battle in China.

Date: 18th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: Sharangee Dutta Headline: Education in Finland is as good as any EU university URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/education/times-study- abroad/europe/education-in-finland-is-as-good-as-any-eu- university/articleshow/72107771.cms

Date: 19th November 2019 Publication: India Blooms Edition: Online Journalist: Prerna Sindwani Headline: IITs, IISc say that patchy funding is delaying ‘Institute of Eminence’ plans URL: https://www.businessinsider.in/education/news/iits-iisc-say-that-patchy-funding-is- delaying-institute-of-eminence-plans/articleshow/72103538.cms

Date: 18th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express - Edex Edition: Online Journalist: Aathira Ayyappan Headline: How this IIT-M incubated start-up has used robots, AI to revamp India's underwater inspection trade URL: https://www.edexlive.com/happening/2019/nov/18/how-this-iit-m-incubated-startup-has-used-robots-ai-to-revamp-indias-underwater-inspection-trade-9119.html

How this IIT-M incubated start-up has used robots, AI to revamp India's underwater inspection trade When a group of brilliant minds including three students and two professors from the coveted Indian Institute of Technology Madras, started working on a topic that was close to their hearts — Non-destructive testing (NDT) — four years ago, little did they know that their research would pave way to create a start-up in the field of smart underwater inspection solutions called Planys Technologies. “We were formed in 2015 and were incubated at the IITM Incubation Cell for the first three years after that. We (the student founders) graduated in 2014, and then Planys was moved to an independent facility in 2018, and have been going strong ever since,” says Tanuj Jhunjhunwala, CEO, Planys Technologies, which received the National Entrepreneurship Award in the 'Engineering sector' category from The Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) recently.

Planys is involved in indigenously manufacturing underwater robots/remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and it's USP lies in its formulation of complete end-to-end underwater inspection solutions. “Till we entered the market, the underwater inspection industry has been following practices and technologies that are decades old, and are non-digital, expensive and extremely inefficient. For example, most inspections of submerged structures are done by human scuba divers. However, divers have various limitations like lower productivity/limited endurance, limited payload-carrying, depth limitations, mostly data collected is neither robust nor repeatable, thus getting reliable data is a challenge. Overall the operation of diving itself poses a huge safety concern for humans as well. Planys’ technology solutions not only makes the services offered to end-users safer, digital and cost-effective but also help them transition from a time-based inspection protocol to a risk-based inspection protocol thus increasing their efficiency and helping them forecast maintenance and repair,” Tanuj points out.

Date: 19th November 2019 Publication: Entrepreneur.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. V. Kamakoti Headline: Is It Safe For You To Use WhatsApp? URL: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/342537

Is It Safe For You To Use WhatsApp?

While WhatsApp is caught up amid controversies, the Facebook-owned messaging app has landed itself in trouble again. Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) run the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has alerted users about a new vulnerability. According to CERT-in, hackers can attack the messaging platform using MP4 files.

According to the official note, this vulnerability does not require any form of authentication from the victim and thus affects the system when the maliciously crafted file is downloaded by the user. “A stack-based buffer overflow could be triggered in WhatsApp by sending a specially crafted MP4 file to a WhatsApp user. The issue was present in parsing the elementary stream metadata of an MP4 file and could result in a Denial of Service (DoS) or Remote Code Execution (RCE),” the note said.

For the uninitiated, according to reports, RCE is a situation where the hacker can get access to someone else's computing device and make changes no matter where the device is geographically located.

CERT-In also said that the vulnerability can affect people using android versions prior to 2.19.274, iOS versions prior to 2.19.100, Enterprise Client versions prior to 2.25.3, Business for Android versions prior to 2.19.104 and Business for iOS versions prior to 2.19.100. The national nodal agency has also advised the users to update their WhatsApp application and update it to the latest version.

In response to CERT-In's alert, WhatsApp spokesperson said, “WhatsApp is constantly working to improve the security of our service. We make public, reports on potential issues we have fixed consistent with industry best practices. In this instance, there is no reason to believe users were impacted."

Is WhatsApp Safe? The Facebook-owned messaging app has been making the headlines for the past few weeks due to privacy and data breach-related issues. In the latest privacy-related controversy, reports revealed that spyware ‘Pegasus’ snooped into the phones of 1,400 people across the world earlier this year through WhatsApp. The Facebook-owned messaging platform had filed a case against Israel-based surveillance firm NSO Group in the federal court, accusing them of allegedly being involved in the breach.

According to WhatsApp, the company came across the cyber attack in May this year where its video calling feature was being compromised to send malware to users. According to media reports, through this attack, NSO helped the government spies get access to the phones of 1,400 users across four continents. The targets were mainly diplomats, political dissidents, journalists and senior government officials. “This attack was developed to access messages after they were decrypted on an infected device, abusing in-app vulnerabilities and the operating systems that power our mobile phones,” WhatsApp said in a statement.

Following this issue, it was reported that the Indian government planned to meet with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) about the risks of allowing social media companies to offer online payment services. Keeping the risks in mind, the central bank asked NPCI to not allow a full-scale launch of WhatsApp Payments in India and also told the Supreme Court that the company is not compliant with data localisation norms.

Tussle In India The messaging company has been locking horns with the Indian authorities since last year over launch of WhatsApp Payments and solving the issue of spread of fake news.

The central government has pulled up the Facebook-owned company after a fake news about kidnapping caused “unfortunate killings” in the country. Following several such incidences, MeitY has asked the company to devise a solution to trace the originator of the fake message. However, the company declined the request stating that this would require them to break its encryption feature.

In response, IIT Madras professor V Kamakoti, who serves on the board of National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) proposed ways to ensure traceability without breaking encryption. According to Prof Kamakoti, WhatsApp can embed information about the originator of a text along with the encrypted message. Such information will be encrypted but can be shown to law enforcement if the situation demanded.

According to a report by MediaNama, Dr Manoj Prabhakaran, a computer science professor at IIT Bombay said that Kamakoti's proposal might affect users' privacy. Prabhakaran who submitted his analysis on behalf of Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) to the Madras High Court belives that traceability might not be an effective tool to combat fake news. He highlighted that one may hire several thousand people to serve as originators of content, thus the main brain behind this might remain untraceable.

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: NDTV Edition: Online Journalist: Shihabudeen Kunju S Professor: Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi Headline: No Proposal Under Consideration To Grant Further Autonomy To IITs: Education Minister URL: https://www.ndtv.com/education/iit-autonomy-hrd-minister-says-no-proposal- under-consideration-to-grant-further-autonomy-to-iits-2135075

No Proposal Under Consideration To Grant Further Autonomy To IITs: Education Minister

Minister of Human Resource Development Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' stated yesterday in the Parliament that there is no proposal under consideration to grant further autonomy to Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) on the lines of Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) at present. The minister also said a committee, which was constituted in order to examine reconstitution of Board of Governors of IITs, had proposed autonomy for the premier technical institutes at par with the IIMs. IIMs have been granted autonomy with from January 31, 2018, as per the Indian Institutes of Management Act, 2017. "At present, there is no proposal under consideration of the Government to grant further autonomy to IITs on the lines of IIMs," the minister said.

The IITs are governed by the Institute of Technology Act, 1961 and Statutes framed under the Act, which among other things provides autonomy in the functioning of the IITs, through Board of Governors constituted for the purpose.

In order to examine reconstitution of Board of Governors of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) in line with those of Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), a Committee was constituted on October 4, 2018.

The Committee was consisted of Prof. M. Anandakrishnan (former Chairperson, IIT, Kanpur), Prof. Partha P. Chakrabarti (Director, IIT, Kharagpur), Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi (Director, IIT, Madras), Prof. Devang Khakhar (Director, IIT, Bombay), Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao (Director, IIT Delhi), Prof. Abhay Karandikar (Director, IIT, Kanpur) and Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala (IIT Madras).

The committee submitted its report on February 5, 2019.

"The committee has proposed amendments to the IIT Act to bring in the same level of autonomy to the Board of Governors as conferred by the IIM Act. At present, there is no proposal under consideration of the Government to grant further autonomy to IITs on the lines of IIMs," the minister said.

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Business Line Edition: Chennai / Delhi / Mumbai / Pune / Hyderabad / Ahmedabad / Chandigarh Journalist: T.V. Jayan Professor: Dr. Tiju Thomas Headline: Scientists develop cheaper catalysts to cut fuel cell cost URL: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/scientists-develop-cheaper- catalysts-to-cut-fuel-cell-cost/article30015121.ece

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Chennai Page No: 8 Journalist: NA Headline: Four from Tamil Nadu clinch Natl. Entrepreneurship Awards

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: The Bridge Edition: Online Journalist: BD Imtiaz Headline: The 54th edition of Inter-IIT Sports Meet set to kickstart on December 14 URL: https://thebridge.in/54th-edition-inter-iit-sports-meet-starts-december-kgp/

The 54th edition of Inter-IIT Sports Meet set to kickstart on December 14 India’s premier institute for engineering the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) is going to host the 54th edition of the Inter IIT Sports Meet from 14 December 2019. The meet will be organised across the IIT Kharagpur and IIT Bhubaneswar campuses where over 3,500 students will be participating from all the 23 IITs across the country. This will be the first time the meet will be co-hosted by two IITs.

The nine-day sports meet will conclude on 22 December 2019 which will see students of the institutions participating in 12 different sports, comprising athletics, badminton, basketball, chess, cricket, football, hockey, lawn tennis, squash, table tennis, volleyball and weightlifting.

Bearing in mind the welfare of the upcoming meet, the sports fraternity at IIT Kharagpur has made some magnificent infrastructural development within the campus of the institution. While the Tata Sports Complex has been renovated with new lights, the Jnan Ghosh Stadium was installed with floodlights recently. Besides, a new synthetic athletics track has been set up in the Stadium, which is the second IIT to have it after IIT Madras.

IIT sports meet The sports meet was preceded by IIT’s Aquatics events held separately in between September 28 and October 3 this year. Like every year, sports meet was preceded by IIT’s Aquatics events held separately in between September 28 and October 3 this year. The meet comprised different disciplines of swimming competitions and water polo. IIT Madras emerged as the winners with 24 points, while IIT Kharagpur finished second with 20 points and IIT Roorkee stood third with 10 points.

IIT sports meet Here’s how the results panned out for men’s and women’s swimming, and water polo events at the IIT Aquatics meet this year. Last year the 53rd Inter IIT Sports Meet was hosted by IIT Guwahati. The edition held a special significance for IIT Guwahati as it was being conducted to celebrate the silver jubilee year of the institute. IIT Delhi ranked first in the overall points tally for the championship with a whopping 106.8 points, while IIT Roorkee secured the second position with 80.4 points and was closely followed by IIT Kharagpur with 80 points. The hosts, IIT Guwahati finished at 7th position with 35.4 points.

Started in 1961, the Inter IIT Sports Meet is the annual sports tournament of the IIT and is organised in December every year. The seven old IITs take turns hosting the event. It is the longest-running Inter-collegiate meet in India. Out of the 53 editions held so far, IIT Madras has emerged as winners 22 times, followed by IIT Bombay and IIT Kharagpur winning 12 times each.

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: Your Story Edition: Online Journalist: NA Journalist: Prof S.R. Chakravarthy & Prof R. Vinu (Authored Article) Headline: How NCCRD has a possible technological alternative to address stubble burning and reduce the AQI URL: https://yourstory.com/socialstory/2019/11/technological-alternative-stubble- burning-aqi

How NCCRD has a possible technological alternative to address stubble burning and reduce the AQI

How NCCRD has a possible technological alternative to address stubble burning and reduce the AQI Burning stubble is irrevocably affecting the air North India breathes. Now, the National Centre for Combustion R&D has an answer that is not only economically viable but also helps one breathe easy. By S. R. Chakravarthy & R. Vinu 20th Nov 2019 0:00/7:52 26 claps +0 +0 Far away in the idyllic environs of the IIT Madras campus are researchers hard at work at the National Centre for Combustion R&D (NCCRD). Away from the severe pollution, they are breathing cleaner air in Chennai, and also ideating on a process to burn stubble that can be useful in making crude oil and char. The premier entity for combustion research is grappling with solutions to address the grave problem of stubble burning that chokes northern India come October, year after year. The Supreme Court has ruled that certain northern states should be held accountable, and stop stubble burning. Yet, beyond legal diktats, and news that satellite data shows a dip in stubble burning, it is imperative to look at the economic reasons that force farmers to burn stubble, and how one can envisage commercially viable alternatives. NCCRD might have the answer. The situation is grim Presently, straw piles up post-harvest, leaving behind vast amounts of stubble. The straw is sold for utilisation purposes such as biomass boilers which generate power. The stubble itself takes over three weeks to clear up, yet it can be burnt in just three days, leaving behind a charred mass which includes ash that enters the soil, and remains till the next crop is sown. While the recently developed mechanised stubble removal hastens and eases, it probably requires governmental bootstrapping/subsidies and a rental model, with enough units available for quick deployment within a short period. While this may be possible, by itself it cannot solve the large problem. Power generation from straw in boilers is not economically competitive compared to coal-based thermal power and solar prevalent in other parts of the country. If the stubble is disposed in a similar manner, additional work is required in removing the soil stuck to the stubble because boilers would be intolerant to such inert matter entering furnaces, and this could aggravate the already slagging and fouling by the ash present in the straw. Biomass gasification is a similar approach, but it is just as expensive today, if not more, and is fraught with similar problems such as direct combustion in boilers. Besides, transportation of huge quantities of straw to installed boiler/gasifier sites that are relatively large scale also adds to the cost and effort. This in turn is compounded if the stubble were to be handled similarly. At NCCRD, researchers are trying out a different approach. It is based on the process of hydrothermal liquefaction or HTL. The process is simple - It involves a pressure vessel capable of withstanding high pressure and temperature. The feedstock — in this case, straw and stubble — is mixed with water (and suitable quantities of solvents like methanol or glycerol, plus a catalyst like potassium hydroxide, etc), and the slurry is heated up to temperatures of around 350 degrees celsius which generates steam at pressures of around 180 degree in atmosphere. In such conditions, close to the critical state of water, the feedstock dissolves and over time (half an hour or an hour), it is converted into crude oil. HTL has been attempted around the world for biomass, and in particular for algae and is targeted for its high yield. The yield of crude oil depends upon all these operating conditions being met. Most importantly, the level of solvent used that has a bearing on the cost of the crude produced. The remainder of the original feedstock mass gets converted into gas and char. Lesser the yield of crude, as dependent on the cost afforded for the solvent to remain competitive with petroleum crude, the greater is the yield of char, which is just as valuable. Laboratory trials have been done with not only paddy straw, but also rice husk, sugarcane bagasse and more interestingly, unsegregated municipal solid waste. This has led to the formation of a startup incubated at IIT Madras called X2Fuels & Energy Pvt. Ltd. with a trade name for the crude obtained from these different sources - “Xcrude.” The idea is to blend the crude obtained from different feedstock to make it feedstock agnostic, and to maintain consistency while pushing it into a refinery. The crude has a calorific value of around 35 megajoules per kilogram, which is quite good, and the char is typically comparable to the sub-bituminous coal variety with fairly low ash content, making the process net energy positive. Basically, the entire process mimics what Mother Nature does to organic waste matter underground over millions of years in forming coal, petroleum, and natural gas, but in a hugely accelerated fashion! Initially, small portions of Xcrude could be blended with the petroleum crude used in a refinery, and progressively greater proportions could be used, thus decreasing the oil import burden to the exchequer. At NCCRD, another innovation called the “swirl mesh” lean direct injection burner has been developed and plugged into a micro gas turbine engine made by another startup Aerostrovilos for small-scale power generation at the level of 100 kW. This burner is fuel agnostic, and can take any fuel, liquid or gas, without distinction between petrol, diesel, kerosene, furnace oil, CNG/LNG, LPG, biogas, syngas, hydrogen, flare gas, etc. This engine is also being pursued for onboard power generation in EVs as a range extender, and can be used with any of the above fuels as economics demand. When this process becomes seamless, the need for going to a refinery with the Xcrude itself would be obviated, thus reducing the cost of transportation significantly.

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: Yahoo News Edition: Online Journalist: Aditi Khanna Headline: UK, India scientists collaborate on clean air solutions for Delhi URL: https://in.news.yahoo.com/uk-india-scientists-collaborate-clean-150309899.html

UK, India scientists collaborate on clean air solutions for Delhi

Atmospheric scientists from the UK and India have partnered to tackle chronic air pollution, which is impacting the health of more than 20 million people in Delhi.

The Indian capital, one of the country's most densely populated metropolis, has some of the worst air pollution of any city in the world.

Air quality experts from the University of Manchester partnered with their counterparts from the Indian Ministry of Earth Sciences (IMES), the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) and the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M) to help drive science-based policy changes.

Their new, and ongoing, study will further identify the causes behind the pollution crisis and inform ongoing and future policy before analysing the effectiveness of the interventions.

'Air pollution in Delhi is linked to a range of factors, including heavy traffic, burnt waste and dusty air in pre-monsoon season. Crop burning is a very important source at the end of the growing season. Pollution impacts are similarly wide-ranging: lung damage, heart disease, cognitive impairment and other conditions have been associated with poor quality of air,' said Professor Hugh Coe, who is a leading member of the team from the Manchester University.

One of the key measures for determining the true extent of Delhi's current pollution problem will be to measure particulate matter concentrations across the city. This detail will build a picture of the sum-total of all hazardous solid and liquid particles suspended in the air.

'The research into these is in its early stages but is already providing insights. The work we have done shows that although there are some variations in particulate matter concentrations across the city, the contributions from different sources are broadly similar,' Coe said.

'This will facilitate better policy implementation since the routes to reduction via policy interventions need to be broadly similar across the city,' he added.

The UK has extensive experience of conducting atmospheric chemistry measurements and carrying out computer modelling of air pollution that is world-leading. India has a rapidly growing research base in this field and a huge amount of local knowledge and understanding of the air pollution problems in Indian cities.

'Harnessing these two strengths in a joint programme that has collaborative and multi- disciplinary research at its heart is vital in making rapid progress towards improving air quality in cities across the globe,' Coe noted.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has described the city's pollution as having 'reached unbearable levels', with low visibility due to smog and an increase in respiratory illnesses, sparking urgent concern.

Schools across the city have recently been ordered to close, construction projects halted and residents advised to avoid outdoor activities as the air quality has reached hazardous levels.

Scientists from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology have already developed the SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research) for advanced air quality forecasting for Delhi.

An IITM statement noted: 'The collaboration with UK scientists will make a valuable addition to the SAFAR model by providing expertise in developing new parameterisation for secondary aerosol formation. The SAFAR system has recently developed ultrahigh resolution (400 m2) emission inventory for Delhi which accounted 26 sources and concluded that the transport sector is the most dominant sector contributing 41 per cent in total particulate matter concentration.

'The industrial sector has been found to be the second most dominating factor contributing 22.3 per cent. The contributions from power sector, biofuel sector, re- suspended dust and others are found to be 3 per cent, 5.7 per cent, 18 per cent and 11.7 per cent respectively.'

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: More than one lakh students undergo psychometric tests in Telangana URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2019/nov/20/more-than- one-lakh-students-undergo-psychometric-tests-in-telangana-2064154.html

More than one lakh students undergo psychometric tests in Telangana

In a first-of-its-kind pilot project, psychometric tests to gain a comprehensive understanding of the inherent strength in children were conducted across 194 model schools in Telangana.

"Over one lakh Class X students have undergone psychometric tests in the State," said Secretary of the Education Department, B Janardhan Reddy. The self-assessment tool My Choice, My Future (MCMF), developed by an incubated startup of IIT-Madras helps analyse aptitude, aspiration, intelligence quotient, and creativity levels among students.

He said, "The test will help students understand their own personality, skills, and intelligence. Based on this, they can make the right career choice." After the test, a detailed analysis of the career choice for the student is formulated. It also helps counsellors plan counselling strategies for students.

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: The Hans India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. T Pradeep Headline: Symposium on Mass Spectrometry held IISER Tirupati URL: https://thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/symposium-on-mass-spectrometry- held-iiser-tirupati-582797

Symposium on Mass Spectrometry held IISER Tirupati

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: Indian Cement Review Edition: Magazine Page No: 44 & 45 Journalist: NA Professor: Dr. A Meher Prasad Headline: Sustainable Rapid Affordable

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: Dainik Jagran Edition: Delhi Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Headline: Britain-India scientists will improve Delhi climate

Date: 20th November 2019 Publication: Punjab Kesari Edition: Delhi Page No: 4 Journalist: NA Headline: UK, India scientists collaborate on clean air solutions for Delhi

Date: 21st November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: India, U.K. scientists collaborate on clean air solutions for Delhi URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/uk-india-scientists-collaborate-on- clean-air-solutions-for-delhi/article30023764.ece

India, U.K. scientists collaborate on clean air solutions for Delhi

Date: 21st November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: Madhumitha Viswanath Headline: Raw sewage dumped into Chennai lakes URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/21/raw-sewage- dumped-into-chennai-lakes-2064604.html

Date: 21st November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Orissa HC to hear Puri's Jagannath temple repair case on December 16 URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2019/nov/21/orissa-hc-to-hear- puris-jagannath-temple-repair-case-on-december-16-2064880.html

Orissa HC to hear Puri's Jagannath temple repair case on December 16

The Orissa High Court has set December 16 for further hearing on Puri Jagannath temple renovation case. The court has been hearing the case in response to a PIL on renovation and repair work at the temple.

The division bench of Chief Justice KS Jhaveri and Justice KR Mohapatra fixed the date on Monday after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) counsel informed the court on the status of work on the cracked stone beams inside Nata Mandap, renovation of Jagamohan and other works taken up at the 12th century shrine.

The ASI is expected to file the status report in affidavit along with further progress in work by then. The petition was filed by social activist Abhisek Das.

According to the status report, preliminary findings obtained from crack metres mounted on the distressed beams of Nata Mandap are ‘encouraging’, which means that there was nothing disturbing about the cracks in the beams. The crack metres were installed as part of the Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) system for measuring displacement due to cracks in the beams.

“The IIT-Madras has submitted its preliminary findings after due consideration of data recorded and obtained from the crack metres and other gadgets of last three months from June 12 onwards. The results show encouraging findings,” the status report said.

Amicus Curiae in the case advocate NK Mohanty had earlier raised doubts over the outcome of the SHM system due to faulty mounting of the metres.

However, the ASI status report said, “There was some installation problem in the crack metre mounted on one of the distressed beams of the Nata Mandap, but the same had been ratified by a team of IIT-Madras, Engineers of Encardio Rites and ASI.”

On renovation of Jagamohana, the status report said load cells installed by the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee for assessment of transfer of load of the cracked stone beams to a steel portal frame ‘are functioning properly’. It has been decided to analyse and submit their data ‘for reviewing in the interval of three months’.

The status report said, “Arrangements for differently-abled persons have been provided through Western Gate and the ramp run up to the inner bedha via Ananda Bazaar. The proposed wooden ramp from Ghantidwar is under process for approval. Work will start after approval of the estimate by the Competent Authority.”

Date: 21st November 2019 Publication: Inc 42 Edition: Online Journalist: NA Alumni: Mr. Vivek Raj Kumar Headline: How Aibono Is Using Its Seed-To-Plate SaaS Suite To Disrupt $250 Bn Fresh Produce Market URL: https://inc42.com/startups/how-aibono-is-using-seed-to-plate-saas-suite-in-fresh- produce-market/

How Aibono Is Using Its Seed-To-Plate SaaS Suite To Disrupt $250 Bn Fresh Produce Market

Founded in 2014 by IIT Madras alumnus Vivek Raj Kumar, Aibono is so far working to improve farm yield and income realisation for farmers through a singular end-to-end platform. Operating as an AI-based fresh food farm aggregator, the startup deals in high- value, highly perishable and short-cycle crops such as carrots, broccoli, lettuce etc — a group which represents a $50 Bn segment within the $250 Bn fresh produce market.

With a growing cycle of 60-90 days and a shelf life of three to four days, very few players in India have been able to figure out the secret sauce to cater to this segment. But Aibono seems to have done it.

In March this year, the Bengaluru-based startup raised $2.5 Mn from Menterra Venture Advisors, Artha Ventures, Rebright Partners among other investors. It is now looking to expand its service to 2K farmers and 1K small retailers in 3-4 cities by 2020. Currently, it is working with about 500 farmers in the Nilgiris belt in Karnataka and 250 retailers, largely based in Bengaluru. It is also building a community center for farmers which will go live in the first quarter of 2020 in the Nilgiris.

“We already have a retailer facing suite of applications for retail orders. It’s the consumer side suite what we have put under the deep freeze,” Kumar chuckled.

While the updated website may get live anytime soon, the company is also working to bring a feature that tells consumers can track the source or the farm where the purchased vegetables or fruits have come from.

“That’s something that will be coming out by 2020. So far we have been working alongside farmers on the concept of seed to plate. It is an exciting thing to be able to provide for the movement of goods as well as the movement of value from seed to plate and plate to seed,” said Kumar.

Seed To Plate Vs Farm To Fork India ranks second in fruits and vegetable production in the world after China. But there still exists a huge gap between per capita demand and supply owing to the highly perishable nature of fresh produce and the relatively poor transport infrastructure in certain parts of the country.

Indian agritech startups working in the farm-to-fork space like WayCool, Fresh2Home, Licious and others are already building solutions to improve supply chain management by adopting best global practices in storage, packaging, handling, transportation while also providing value-added service. As a result, many claim to have reduced post- harvest wastage by more than 40%.

Aibono is, however, operating in the seed-to-fork segment. Kumar explained that typically platforms are built by companies to focus on the demand side. They first talk to consumers and then go closer to the source to remove the intermediary, but they always start from the demand side. He added that in the farm-to-table space, startups don’t enter the farm or directly engage with farmers before the harvest. Their engagement with producers start after the product is ready.

“Our engagement with farmers start 90 days before that — right from the first moment when the seeds are sown and going all the way until the produce is purchased from the retail shelf. We understand that yield without a price is half the problem solved. And doing supply chain without controlling the product, which perishes every two days, is like a gamble you can hardly win,” he added.

Date: 21st November 2019 Publication: New Delhi Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: India, UK scientists partner to tackle air pollution in the National Capital URL: https://www.newdelhitimes.com/india-uk-scientists-partner-to-tackle-air-pollution- in-the-national-capital/

India, UK scientists partner to tackle air pollution in the National Capital

In the wake of the severe pollution levels in the National Capital, that are impacting the health of more than 20 million people in the city, the atmospheric scientists from India and the U.K. have collaborated to find clean air solutions for the Capital city.

Professor Hugh Coe, who is a leading member of the team from the Manchester University said, “The research into these is in its early stages but is already providing insights. The work we have done shows that although there are some variations in particulate matter concentrations across the city, the contributions from different sources are broadly similar.”

“This will facilitate better policy implementation since the routes to reduction via policy interventions need to be broadly similar across the city,” he added further.

In order to help drive science-based policy changes, the air quality experts from the University of Manchester have collaborated with their Indian counterparts from the Indian Ministry of Earth Sciences (IMES), the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

Date: 21st November 2019 Publication: News Track Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Gate 2020: Correction of Application forms started URL: https://english.newstracklive.com/news/gate-2020-correction-in-application-form- start-know-more-details-sc79-nu-1049318-1.html

Gate 2020: Correction of Application forms started Improvement in GATE 2020 application has started by IIT Delhi. Candidates can improve the application form by visiting the official website. The institute has also issued an official notice with a link to change the examination city, examination paper, candidate's name, gender, category, father's name, college name, etc. Improvement in the application form is the final process of GATE 2020 online applications. After that, IIT Delhi will temporarily issue the admit card on 03 January 2020.

The exam will be conducted on 1, 2, 8 and 9 February 2020 at various centers across the country. It will be conducted in two shifts. The first shift will run from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm. However, the second shift will start from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm. Candidates should note that IIT Delhi has also released the GATE 2020 mock test for all subjects. For information, let us know that GATE is organized every year by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), seven IIT Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Madras, Roorkee. It comes under the National Co-ordination Board (NCB), Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Central Government.

Date: 21st November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Headline: The numbers game

Date: 21st November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Chennai Page No: 8 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Sachin S Gunthe Headline: What is AQI?

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: Down to Earth Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Tiju Thomas Headline: Scientists have developed nanoparticles that can be an economical alternative to catalysts used in fuel cells URL: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/hindistory/scientists-finds-new-catalyst-for- economical-fuel-cell-67848

Scientists have developed nanoparticles that can be an economical alternative to catalysts used in fuel cells

फ्यूल सेल में उपयोग होने वाले महंगे प्लैडटनम कैटेडलस्ट (उत्प्रेरक) के डकफायती और डटकाऊ डवकल्प खोजने की वैज्ञाडनकों की कोडशशों को एक नई सफलता डमली है। भारतीय प्रौोडगकी संथथान (आईआईटी) मद्रास और डिटेन तथा चीन के वैज्ञाडनकों ने डजरकोडनयम नाइटराइि नैनो पाडटफकल्स डवकडसत डकए हℂ जो फ्यूल सेल में उपयोग होने वाले प्लैडटनम कैटेडलस्ट (उत्प्रेरक) का डकफायती डवकल्प हो सकता है।

फ्यूल सेल में उपयोग होने वाले प्लैडटनम उत्प्रेरक की लागत सेल के कुल मूल्य की करीब 20 प्रडतशत होती है। प्लैडटनम एक दुलफभ िातु है डजसकी प्रडत ग्राम कीमत करीब तीन हजार 셁पये तक होती है। दूसरी ओर, पृथ्वी पर डजरकोडनयम भरपूर मात्रा में मौजूद है और यह प्लैडटनम की तुलना में 700 गुना तक सस्ता भी है। शोिकताफओं का कहना है डकइन नैनोपाडटफकल्स का वास्तडवक 셂प में उपयोग डकए जाने पर डनकट भडवष्य में बाजार में सस्ते और बेहतर फ्यूल सेल देखने को डमल सकते हℂ।

आईआईटी मद्रास के शोिकताफ तीजू थॉमस के अलावा इस अध्ययन में चीन के डननग्बो इंस्टीट्यूट ऑफ मैटेररयल्स टेक्नोलॉजी ऐंि इंजीडनयररंग के याओ युआन, हℂल्किआ सेन एवं समीरा अदीमी, शंघाई इंस्टीट्यूट ऑफ डसरेडमक्स के डजयाचेंग वांग तथा 셁ग्आंग मा, डिटेन की यूडनवडसफटी ऑफ एडिनबगफ के जे. पॉल एटफील्ड और चीन की यूडनवडसफटी ऑफ चाइनीज एकेिेमी ऑफ साइंसेज के वैज्ञाडनक डमꅍघुई यांग शाडमल थे। यह अध्ययन शोि पडत्रका नेचर मैटेररयल्स में हाल में प्रकाडशत डकया गया है।

Related Stories लोहे से बनेंगे सोलर सेल, 30 फीसदी ज्यादा डबजली डमलेगी डवज्ञान गल्प की दुडनया क्या डबजली का डवज्ञान जानते हℂ आप इलेल्कररक वाहन: शू उत्सजफन ऑक्सीजन ररिक्शन ररएक्शन (ओआरआर) फ्यूल सेल और मेटल-एयर बैटररयों में में होने वाली एक प्रमुख रसायडनक अडभडिया है डजसके उत्प्रेरक के 셂प में प्लैडटनम का उपयोग होता है। प्लैडटनम आिाररत सामग्री का उपयोग माइिो- इलेररॉडनक सेंससफ, कℂसर की दवाओं, ऑटोमोडटव कैटेडलडटक कन्वटफर और इलेररोकेडमकल एनजी कन्वजफन उपकरणों में भी होता है। लेडकन अत्यडिक महंगा, दुलफभ और डवषािता के प्रडत संवेदनशील होने के कारण प्लैडटनम का बडे पैमाने पर उपयोग एक बडी बािा है।

फ्यूल सेल एक ऐसा उपकरण है जो आणडवक बंिों में संडचत रासायडनक ऊजाफ को डवद्युत ऊजाफ में पररवडतफत कर सकता है। सामा तौर पर उपयोग होने वाले हाइिरोजन फ्यूल सेल में हाइिरोजन अणुओं को िनात्मक 셂प से आवेडशत हाइिरोजन आयन और इलेररॉन में डवभाडजत करने के डलए प्लैडटनम को उत्प्रेरक के 셂प में उपयोग डकया जाता है। जबडक इलेररॉन प्रत्यक्ष डवद्युत उत्पादन करने के डलए प्रवाडहत होते हℂ और िनात्मक हाइिरोजन आयन ऑक्सीजन के साथ डमलकर ऊजाफ के सबसे स्व 셂पों में से एक के उत्पादन का मागफ प्रशस्त करते हℂ। इस प्रडिया मेंऑक्सीजन की आपूडतफ एक अ इलेररोि के माध्यम से होती है।

शोिकताफओं का कहना है डक डजरकोडनयम नाइटराइिप्लैडटनम आिाररत कायⴂ को तो कुशलता से पूरा करता ही है, बल्कि कई मायनों में इसे प्लैडटनम उत्प्रेरकों के मुकाबले अडिक बेहतर पाया गया है। प्लैडटनम की तुलना में डजरकोडनयम नाइटराइि उत्प्रेरकअडिक ल्कथथरता रखते हℂ। फ्यूल सेल में उपयोग होने वाले प्लैडटनम उत्प्रेरक एक समय के पश्चात अपघडटत होने लगते हℂ। जबडक डजरकोडनयम नाइटराइि उत्प्रेरक के क्षरण की अपेक्षाकृत 셂प से िीमी देखी गई है।

तेजी से बदलती डिडजटल दुडनया में फ्यूल सेल और मेटल-एयर बैटररयां भडवष्य में ऊजाफ के क्षेत्र में नए बदलावों को ज दे सकती हℂ। ऑटोमोडटव इंिस्टरी और ऑफ-डग्रि ऊजाफ उत्पादन में भी इनकी भूडमका डवशेष 셂प से महत्वपूणफ हो सकती है। प्लैडटनम की उ लागत इन बैटररयों के उपयोग में अब तक सबसे बडी बािा रही है। बेहतर क्षमता के डकफायती और डटकाऊ उत्प्रेरक इस बािा को दूर करने में मददगार हो सकते हℂ

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Kochi Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: DMRC to withdraw from work on rebuilding flyover URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Kochi/dmrc-to-withdraw-from-work-on- rebuilding-flyover/article30043271.ece

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Suresh Babu Headline: Natl conference on economic growth with stability at MCC

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: Daiji World Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Mangaluru: State to introduce new fishing policy soon - Kota Srinivas Poojary URL: https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay.aspx?newsID=646129

Mangaluru: State to introduce new fishing policy soon - Kota Srinivas Poojary State government is planning to introduce soon a new policy pertaining to sea and inland fishing, said minister for Ports and Fisheries and Muzrai, Kota Srinivas Poojary.

Addressing media here on Thursday, November 21, Poojary who is also the Dakshina Kannada district-in-charge minister said that the new policy will look into different areas such as production of baby fish, fish transportation, basic facilities for sea fishing and mechanised boats as well as providing security for fishermen. Also, it will look into tackling the atrocities faced by fishermen from other states, he said.

“The draft copy has been framed and will be presented to the fishermen to have a discussion on it. If required, the Act pertaining to fishing will be amended. There is a demand of over 50 crore baby fish. Hence, upgradation of Narayapura fish production unit will be undertaken at a cost of Rs 4 crore. In addition, third phase of jetty construction will begin at Mangaluru at a cost of Rs 3 crore. In the next three weeks, the proposal will be kept in the cabinet and funds will be released,” he informed.

He further said," We will also undertake the project for the construction of floating jetty at Mangaluru and Malpe sea shore, worth Rs 6.5 crore based upon technical report by IIT Chennai,"

"We have conducted a meeting with deputy commissioner, police department with regard to illegal sand transportation. The sand is transported to other states without any permit. I have ordered the concerned officials to take stringent action against those illegally transporting sand to other states. No one will be spared,” warned Poojary.

"Government is also planning to open Matsyadarshini hotel in 31 centres across the state including Mangaluru, Udupi, Bellary, Shivamogga, Beltangady, Sullia, Puttur and many other parts of the state. The project cost is worth Rs 11 crore.” Poojary informed.

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: Inc 42 Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Jio Institute To Launch AI, Data Science Courses By 2021 URL: https://inc42.com/buzz/jio-institute-to-launch-ai-data-science-courses-by-2021/

Jio Institute To Launch AI, Data Science Courses By 2021

Reliance Foundation’s Jio Institute, on Thursday (November 21), announced that it will be launching graduate courses in artificial intelligence (AI), data sciences and digital media and integrated marketing communications for its first academic year by 2021.

In a media report, the institute recently said that it has set up a seven-member global advisory board, before its launch.

The global advisory board consists of Jean-Lou Chameau, president emeritus of California Institute of Technology (Caltech); Michael Keller, vice provost of Stanford University; Rick Levin, former president of Yale University; Subra Suresh, president of Singapore’s Nanyang Technology University. Nadhmi A Al-Nasr, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s futuristic habitat project NEOM; Frank J Mulhem and Vinayak P Dravis of Northwestern University, the report added.

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Experts expect test will provide clarity URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/2019/nov/22/experts-expect-test- will-provide-clarity-2065222.html

Experts expect test will provide clarity In the wake of the Kerala High Court directive to conduct a load test on the Palarivattom flyover before going for reconstruction, structural engineering experts expect the decision will provide clarity on the matter. “The government decision to reconstruct the flyover bypassed the engineering procedure. We never said that the flyover need not be demolished. Our request is to follow the proper engineering procedures before finalising the decision and it has now been approved by the court,” said Reji Zachariah, president, Association of Structural and Geotechnical Consulting Engineers (ASGCE).

“If the load test conducted as per the rules laid down by the Indian Road Congress (IRC) shows the structure is unsafe, the flyover should be demolished for reconstruction. If it is found to be safe, then we can rectify the mistakes through proper maintenance,” said Zachariah.

However, the association will challenge the HC directive to allow the contractor to run the load test. “We will give another appeal to hand over the work to a professional agency like IIT- Madras who are experts in bridges. The government can also bring in an international player to assess the structure and make an impartial decision,” he added.

Echoing a similar opinion, Anil Joseph, a structural engineering expert, said, “Even the study report of IIT-Madras reiterated the need for a ‘load test’ after necessary repair works. But the government took an independent decision to demolish the structure. As the test only incurs an expenditure of `4 lakh, it is sensible to run the test before spending `20 crore on reconstruction,” he said.

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: Enterpreneur.com Edition: Online Journalist: Bhavya Kaushal Headline: L'Oreal-backed Investment Firm Announces the First Close of Its Second Fund URL: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/342774

L'Oreal-backed Investment Firm Announces the First Close of Its Second Fund

Early stage investor Fireside Ventures announced the first close of its second fund, which has a target of $100 million. The total commitments have already crossed $60 million to date.

According to Kanwaljit Singh, Managing Partner of Fireside Ventures, the second fund aims to double down on the success of the first fund and follow the same strategy of investing in exciting young millennial brands and helping them with a strong ecosystem support. Fireside Ventures launched the first fund in February 2018 which had raised INR 340 crore.

The round was closed with participation from global as well as domestic investors including the likes of French personal care company L'Oréal. Launched in May 2017, Fireside Ventures is an investment company that is focused on pumping capital in consumer brands with definite branding opportunities. The 3 focal scope of investment include brand, consumer and product.

Related Articles: This Early-Stage Investment Firm with Fire in its Belly to Fund India's Consumer Startups is Doing so at a Fiery Pace

The second fund also announced its first investment in personal care brand Gyanoveda. It has a, impressive list of portfolio companies including the likes of Mamaearth, Yoga Bar, Magic Crate, Pipa+Bella and BoAt, Vahdam Teas, Bombay Shaving Company, Goodness!, Kwik 24, Samosa Singh, DesignCafe, and Alpha Vector.

Taking Brands Towards Growth & Beyond Borders

Commenting on the fund, Singh also said, “The Indian start-up ecosystem for consumer brands is evolving rapidly and we are seeing significant new opportunities to build large consumer brands across multiple sectors and themes. We have witnessed a lot of interest from domestic and global investors including family offices, strategics, large Institutions, etc. in investing in Fireside Fund II.”

Singh also said that they are also starting to see credible opportunities for Indian brands to go global. This is an important point to note specially in the wake of the world start-up ecosystem which is booming. With the number of unicorns in India already exceeding 25, the nation has the potential to lead the world start-up ecosystem.

Related Articles: This VC Believes an Investor's Role Goes Much Beyond Providing Funds

Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the convocation of IIT-Madras recently announced that India is on the third spot in the top start-up nations of the world, with more than 7,000 startups in the ecosystem. The time to go global is definitely ripe for Indian start-ups especially when top investors from Japan, China and USA are ready to sign big checks for the companies. Since the investors to start-ups ratio in India is very low, there is a rising need for the emergence of more home-grown investment companies and individuals, including venture capitalists, private equity firms and angel investors, who can lead investments at the forefront.

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: Menafn.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Dr. Prabhu Rajagopal Headline: India- These innovations by IIT engineers make world a better place URL: https://menafn.com/1099310592/India-These-innovations-by-IIT-engineers-make- world-a-better-place

India- These innovations by IIT engineers make world a better place

The Indian Institutes ofTechnology( IITs ) are the country's premier engineering institutes recognized as centers of academic excellence inscience and technology .

These prestigious institutes are also reputed for producing graduates of outstanding caliber. IITians from across the country have been developing various solutions, including some innovations that can help build a better world.

Here are five innovations by IITians to know about.

#1 This innovative device traps and converts air pollutants into ink

Air pollutionis the largest global health risk, according to the WHO. Diesel generators, which emit significant air particulate matter/pollutants, are among the major sources of air pollution. To address this, IIT-Delhi engineer Kushagra Srivastava built an innovative filtering device "Chakr Shield" that traps pollutants and control emissions from diesel generators. Moreover, the captured pollutants are converted into black paint or ink for printers.

#2 This robot aims to put an end to manual scavenging

Manual scavenging is an illegal, hazardous practice that continues to claim lives even today. To eradicate manual scavenging, an IIT-Madras team, led by Dr. Prabhu Rajagopal and comprising former and current MechanicalEngineeringstudents, Tanmay Mothe, Kranthi Chaitanya, Srikanth Dharwad, and Vishakh Kumar, developed SEPoy, a septic-tank cleaning robot.

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: Connected to India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: UK, India climate scientists to tackle Delhi air pollution crisis URL: https://www.connectedtoindia.com/uk-india-climate-scientists-to-tackle-delhi-air- pollution-crisis-6570.html

UK, India climate scientists to tackle Delhi air pollution crisis The Indian capital, one of the country’s most densely populated cities, has been struggling with some of the worst air pollution of any city in the world.

Their new, and ongoing, study will further identify the causes behind the pollution crisis and inform ongoing and future policy before analysing the effectiveness of the interventions.

Scientists from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology have already developed the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) for advanced air quality forecasting for Delhi.

An IITM statement noted, “The collaboration with UK scientists will make a valuable addition to the SAFAR model by providing expertise in developing new parameterisation for secondary aerosol formation.”

Professor Hugh Coe, who is a leading member of the team from Manchester University, said crop burning is a very important source of air pollution in the region.

One of the key measures for determining the true extent of Delhi’s current pollution problem will be to measure particulate matter concentrations across the city. This detail will build a picture of the sum-total of all hazardous solid and liquid particles suspended in the air.

The UK has extensive experience in conducting atmospheric chemistry measurements and carrying out computer modelling of air pollution that is world-leading. India has a rapidly growing research base in this field and a huge amount of local knowledge and understanding of the air pollution problems in Indian cities.

Date: 22nd November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Russian collaboration for ‘Gaganyaan’ crucial to meet 2022 launch deadline: Sivathanu Pillai URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/russian-collaboration-for- gaganyaan-crucial-to-meet-2022-launch-deadline-sivathanu-pillai/article30042763.ece

Russian collaboration for ‘Gaganyaan’ crucial to meet 2022 launch deadline: Sivathanu Pillai

Date: 23rd November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express - Edex Edition: Online Journalist: Johanna Deeksha Headline: Viral photo about vegetarianism securing 'salvation' not from IIT Madras canteen. Here's the truth URL: https://www.edexlive.com/news/2019/nov/22/viral-photo-about-vegetarianism- securing-salvation-not-from-iit-madras-canteen-heres-the-truth-9206.html

Viral photo about vegetarianism securing 'salvation' not from IIT Madras canteen. Here's the truth

Recently, a photograph of a Manusmiriti quote on a wall was being circulated as being from the canteen at IIT Madras. The quote written in Tamil loosely translated to — The benefits earned by performing ashwamedha yagnam for 100 years is equal to the adharma earned by eating non-vegetarian food. However, the person who posted the photo has clarified that it was not taken in IIT Madras

The photo began to go viral on Facebook a few days ago. Fathima Latheef's suicide led to a lot of discussion on harassment and discrimination and the message in the photo was also criticised for its purported Brahmanical thought. However, it was later found that the photo was taken in a marriage hall in Coimbatore. The photo had been posted on Facebook along with other photos from the wedding by people who attended the event in Coimbatore.

The person who was in the picture also clarified the same on Facebook, "The photo on Facebook never mentions it was clicked in the IITM campus. Neither did they ask my permission to use my photo for a particular subject that they wanted to discuss. I am no way involved in the subject discussed either."

He also however said that the subject was a legit matter, "But with regards to the subject discussed, it is nothing but Brahminism only. It doesn’t matter where it exists. Problem matter is not the topic of food choice per se. Neither if the photo was clicked in IITM. It is just a symptom. The root is Brahminism and it exists everywhere."

Date: 23rd November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: T.N. police, IIT-M to host hackathon URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/tn-police-iit-m-to-host- hackathon/article30055094.ece

T.N. police, IIT-M to host hackathon

Date: 23rd November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Conference on info security held at SASTRA URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/trichy/conference-on-info-security-held- at-sastra/articleshow/72191940.cms

Date: 23rd November 2019 Publication: Devdiscourse Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Government, Industry and Academic Partnership to Develop Sport in India URL: https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/education/755099-government-industry- and-academic-partnership-to-develop-sport-in-india

Government, Industry and Academic Partnership to Develop Sport in India

Celebrating 25 years of engagement in India, Australia'sDeakin University hosted an event to highlight the importance of government, industry and academic partnerships to develop sport in India, held at the Australian High Commission in New Delhi.

The event included Australian Education Minister Dan Tehan MP alongside Deakin's Vice- Chancellor Professor Iain Martin and Rajasthan Royals' COO Jake Lush McCrum.

Sport in India is growing as never before, with the introduction of premier leagues and tournaments in sports as diverse as football, basketball, tennis and kabbadi. There is a huge emphasis on professionalizing the industry in India across sport management, development, science and governance.

Mr Tehan said Australians loved sport and the country's universities had earned a reputation as world-leaders in sport science, health, management and commerce.

"Australia is a leading provider of sport education and our institutions are well placed to meet the growing demand from India for an international education in sport science and business. It makes sense that the world's biggest sports teams want to work with our universities and tap into our knowledge and talent," Mr Tehan said.

During the discussions, Deakin's association with the Rajasthan Royals was cited as the perfect example of such collaboration.

Currently in its fourth year of association, Deakin was the first Australian university to partner with a team in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is the official sports education partner for Rajasthan Royals.

Jointly the partners have promoted sport education in India and facilitated research in sport management and sport science, while working on initiatives to encourage the participation of women in sport.

Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin said Deakin was the first international education provider to set up an office in India and is ranked in the world's top three universities for sports science, so working to promote the professionalisation of sport in India was a perfect fit.

"Our partnership with the Rajasthan Royals is a pivotal part of this work. It helps attract the best and brightest Indian students to study sport in Australia, creates meaningful research and training connections between both countries, and provides opportunities for Australian students to participate in internships and study tours during the Indian Premier League season," Professor Martin said.

"We want to help the next generation to make sport a professional industry in India, while also offering all our students the opportunity to learn globally-relevant skills. These skills will be vital in enabling them to build an exciting career in sport, wherever it takes them."

Through the association, Deakin and the Rajasthan Royals work on promoting sport education in India through research in sport marketing, branding, sponsorships, development, fan engagement and player performance analysis.

Executive Chairman of the Rajasthan Royals Ranjit Barthakur said his team was at the forefront of nurturing and promoting young Indian talent and this partnership with Deakin University aligns with our core strategy of discovering potential and championing dreams. We share a philosophy that puts empowerment at the forefront of the business.

"A combination of world class education put together with on field training and exposure can produce extraordinary results and this is exactly what Rajasthan Royals and Deakin University are working towards. This partnership provides aspiring sports professionals with an opportunity to learn, gain deeper insights into the running of a sports franchise and widen their horizons for future employment." Mr Barthakur said.

The most important feature of the collaboration is the Deakin Royals 100 per cent scholarship provided to a deserving Indian student to study a sport-related course at Deakin in Australia. The scholarship consists of a full waiver of tuition fees for on-shore studies at Deakin, with the objective that the recipient will use the education and experience to give back to society.

Aiswarya Aanand, winner of the Deakin Royals Sports Scholarship 2019, said the scholarship was a dream come true to study at an international university.

"I wish to use this opportunity to enhance my knowledge and skills to work on performativity and resistance among sportswomen back in my home state," Aishwarya said.

Aishwarya is an avid sportsperson, representing her state under-19 cricket team and captaining the volleyball team at IIT Madras at the prestigious Inter-IIT tournament. She is currently studying a Master of Business (Sport Management) at Deakin.

The Deakin-Royals collaboration also provides internship opportunities to Deakin students during IPL season in marketing, sponsorship, operations, public relations etc. This allows students to apply management and marketing theories and business principles in a challenging real-world environment.

Deakin student Shivshankar Ranjit interned with the Royals in the 2019 IPL season and is currently working with Cricket Australia as a digital analyst.

"I interned with the Rajasthan Royals' digital and public relations team. The experience was very dynamic and the exhilarating spirit of the tournament was well-reflected. It drew me closer to understanding the sporting landscape in India in more ways than one, which is certainly helping me in my current role at Cricket Australia," Shivshankar said.

Deakin aims to further expand this work in India through a series of short development programs to be offered in sport marketing, management, coaching, development and governance, to be launched in 2020.

About Deakin University

Established in 1974, Deakin University is one of Australia's leading tertiary education providers and is ranked in the top 1 per cent of world universities (ARWU). It has won numerous awards and teaches more than 60,000 students each year offering students world-class programs and endless opportunities.

Celebrating 25 years of engagement in India, Deakin University was the first international education provider to set up an office in India in 1994. It has established premier partnerships in India to transform education and research into beneficial community outcomes, to produce world-class graduates and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the communities.

Date: 23rd November 2019 Publication: Shreyas Tanna Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: India, U.K. scientists collaborate on clean air solutions for Delhi URL: http://www.boscalicious.co.uk/india-u-k-scientists-collaborate-on-clean-air- solutions-for-delhi/

India, U.K. scientists collaborate on clean air solutions for Delhi

The Indian capital has a portion of the most noticeably terrible air contamination of any city on the planet.

Barometrical researchers from the U.K. furthermore, India have joined forces to handle constant air contamination, which is affecting the soundness of in excess of 20 million individuals in Delhi.

The Indian capital, one of the nation’s most thickly populated city, has a portion of the most exceedingly awful air contamination of any city on the planet.

Air quality specialists from the University of Manchester joined forces with their partners from the Indian Ministry of Earth Sciences (IMES), the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) and the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M) to help drive science-based arrangement changes.

Their new, and continuous, study will additionally recognize the causes behind the contamination emergency and advise progressing and future arrangement before breaking down the viability of the mediations.

“Air contamination in Delhi is connected to a scope of elements, including substantial traffic, consumed squander and dusty air in pre-rainstorm season. Yield consuming is a significant source toward the finish of the developing season. Contamination impacts are likewise wide-running: lung harm, coronary illness, intellectual debilitation and different conditions have been related with low quality of air,” said Professor Hugh Coe, who is a main individual from the group from the Manchester University.

One of the key measures for deciding the genuine degree of Delhi’s present contamination issue will be to gauge particulate matter focuses over the city. This detail will fabricate an image of the entirety of all perilous strong and fluid particles suspended noticeable all around.

“The examination into these is in its beginning times however is as of now giving experiences. The work we have done shows that in spite of the fact that there are a few varieties in particulate issue fixations over the city, the commitments from various sources are comprehensively comparable,” Coe said.

“This will encourage better approach usage since the courses to decrease through strategy mediations should be extensively comparative over the city,” he included.

The U.K. has broad experience of directing barometrical science estimations and completing PC demonstrating of air contamination that is world-driving. India has a quickly developing examination base in this field and a tremendous measure of neighborhood information and comprehension of the air contamination issues in Indian urban areas.

“Saddling these two qualities in a joint program that has cooperative and multi- disciplinary research at its heart is fundamental in gaining fast ground towards improving air quality in urban communities over the globe,” Coe noted.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has portrayed the city’s contamination as having “arrived at unendurable levels”, with low perceivability because of exhaust cloud and an expansion in respiratory ailments, starting dire concern.

Schools over the city have as of late been arranged to close, development ventures stopped and occupants encouraged to keep away from open air exercises as the air quality has arrived at unsafe levels.

Researchers from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology have just built up the SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research) for cutting edge air quality estimating for Delhi.

An IITM explanation noticed: “The coordinated effort with U.K. researchers will make an important expansion to the SAFAR model by giving ability in growing new parameterisation for optional vaporized development. The SAFAR framework has as of late created ultrahigh goals (400 m2) discharge stock for Delhi which accounted 26 sources and inferred that the vehicle area is the most prevailing division contributing 41 percent in complete particulate issue fixation.

“The mechanical division has been seen as the second most ruling variable contributing 22.3%. The commitments from control area, biofuel segment, re-suspended residue and others are seen as 3%, 5.7%, 18% and 11.7% individually.”

Date: 23rd November 2019 Publication: The Asian Age Edition: Mumbai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Alumni: GVL satya Kumar Headline: JAC formed for IIT students' welfare

Date: 24th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: SSN college wins top prize at ‘TN Police Hackathon’ URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/ssn-college-wins-top-prize- at-tn-police-hackathon/article30064482.ece

SSN college wins top prize at ‘TN Police Hackathon’

Date: 24th November 2019 Publication: Indus Dictum Edition: Online Journalist: NA Student: Mr. Aishwarya Anand Headline: Rajasthan Royals, Australian Govt & Deakin Univ partner to develop sports in India URL: https://indusdictum.com/2019/11/23/rajasthan-royals-australian-govt-deakin-univ- partner-to-develop-sports-in-india/

Rajasthan Royals, Australian Govt & Deakin Univ partner to develop sports in India

Australia’s Deakin University hosted an event to highlight the importance of government, industry and academic partnerships to develop sports in India, held at the Australian High Commission in New Delhi. The event included Australian Education Minister Dan Tehan MP, alongside Deakin’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin and Rajasthan Royals’ COO Jake Lush McCrum.

Tehan said Australians loved sport and the country’s universities had earned a reputation as world-leaders in sport science, health, management and commerce. Tehan was in India to co-chair the 5th Australia-India Education Council (AIEC) meeting and hold bilateral talks.

“Australia is a leading provider of sport education and our institutions are well placed to meet the growing demand from India for an international education in sport science and business. It makes sense that the world’s biggest sports teams want to work with our universities and tap into our knowledge and talent,” Tehan said.

Earlier today, the All India Institute of Ayurveda signed an MoU with Western Sydney University to extend the reach of Ayurveda to Australia.

Currently in its fourth year of association, Deakin is the official sports education partner for Rajasthan Royals. Jointly the partners have promoted sports education in India and facilitated research in sports management and sports science, while working on initiatives to encourage the participation of women in sports.

“Our partnership with the Rajasthan Royals is a pivotal part of this work. It helps attract the best and brightest Indian students to study sport in Australia, creates meaningful research and training connections between both countries, and provides opportunities for Australian students to participate in internships and study tours during the Indian Premier League season,” Martin said.

“We want to help the next generation to make sports a professional industry in India, while also offering all our students the opportunity to learn globally-relevant skills,” added Martin.

Executive Chairman of the Rajasthan Royals Ranjit Barthakur said the partnership with Deakin University aligns with the core strategy of discovering potential and championing dreams, providing aspiring sports professionals with an opportunity to learn and gain deeper insights into the running of a sports franchise.

The collaboration will provide a ‘Deakin Royals’ fully-paid scholarship to a deserving Indian student to study a sport-related course at Deakin in Australia. The scholarship consists of a full waiver of tuition fees for on-shore studies at Deakin, with the objective that the recipient will use the education and experience to give back to society.

Aiswarya Aanand was selected under the Deakin Royals Sports Scholarship 2019. Anand has represented her state’s under-19 cricket team and captained the volleyball team at IIT Madras.

“I wish to use this opportunity to enhance my knowledge and skills to work on performance and resistance among sportswomen back in my home state,” Anand said.

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: Dainik Jagran Edition: Delhi Page No: 16 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Tiju Thomas Headline: New catalyst made for cheap fuel cell

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Bangalore Page No: 6 Journalist: S V Krishna Chaitanya Headline: Chennai breathes toxic air 100 days a year URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/25/chennai- breathes-toxic-air-100-days-a-year-2066569.html

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: Sushmitha Ramakrishnan Headline: Environment far from conducive for women? URL: https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2019/nov/25/environment-far- from-conducive-for-women-2066574.html

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 4 Journalist: Shubha Sharma Headline: A different rhythm URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/a-different- rhythm/article30071480.ece

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Hackathon Five emerge winners

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Student: Headline: SSN college wins top prize at ‘TN Police Hackathon

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 25 Journalist: NA Headline: Vijayanagar terminus turns thoroughfare

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 14 & 24 Journalist: NA Headline: Astrophysics workshop at IIT-Madras today

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The Statesman Edition: Kolkata Page No: 3 Journalist: Subendu Maiti Headline: Kapil Muni Ashram & Gangasagar mela ground under threat

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: News Today Edition: Chennai Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Headline: Check dam across Palar river increases ground water level

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: Trinity Mirror Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Alumni: Mr. Ganpath Headline: Big push to Modi diplomatic efforts; Ganphat

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The Economic Times - Hindi Edition: Delhi Page No: 8 Journalist: Shreeradha Basu Headline: Pre-Placement offers to IIT students

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Chennai Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Headline: Startups compete in Lotte IIT-M event

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: Krishna Chaitanya Headline: Is every breath we take hazardous?

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: Trinity Mirror Edition: Chennai Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Headline: Check dam across Palar river becom es a reality

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: Free Press Journal Edition: Mumbai Page No: 6 Journalist: NA Alumni: GVL Satya Kumar Headline: G. V. L. Satya Kumar appointed Divisional Railway Manager of Western Railway's Mumbai Division

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Chronicle Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: All about jazz and his trumpet URL: https://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/viral-and-trending/241119/all-about- jazz-and-his-trumpet.html

All about jazz and his trumpet

It’s been a busy couple of days at the third edition of the International Hyderabad Jazz Festival at Phoenix Arena. The first day had Lisbeth Quartet from Germany and the Meghalaya band Fourth Element performing. On the second day, the French-American band ‘Thiefs’ brought a more contemporary approach to jazz music, with MC Edgar Sekloka and Neha Nair presenting songs, skilfully backed by saxophone player Christophe Panzani and Benoit Lugue on the electric bass.

Among the jazz performers was Hyderabad’s own Humayun Mirza. As a part of the band presentation of Dennis Powell Collective, Humayun — grandnephew of Begum Sugra Mirza (the illustrious social worker and founder of Safdaria Girls School) — performed on the trumpet.

Humayun is one of the very few trumpet players Hyderabad has. “That’s probably because trumpet is not a marriage-band instrument. But it’s not a difficult instrument to learn. The instrument has only three keys, learning the right technique makes it easy to play. Many young girls and women all over the world have made a mark with their performances on the instrument. Apart from being part of bands, trumpet is a great solo instrument. Listeners love the exciting sounds and high notes that come from a trumpet,” says Humayun.

Humayun, who’s deeply inspired by international jazz performers including Wynton Marsalis, Arturo Sandoval, Chris Botti, Louis Armstrong and Herbie Hancock, talks about what got him interested in trumpet. “As a boy, I’d heard a vinyl record of the famous trumpeter Eddie Calvert. That’s when I decided to learn to play the instrument. I began as a part of my school band in Hyderabad Public School, continuing into my college days in IIT Madras. I later undertook regular gigs and performances,” he adds.

Despite the city’s dismal trumpeting scene, Humayun’s rather upbeat about its jazz scene. “Many in the city are appreciating jazz standards and attending workshops to improve their knowledge. But we need more jazz festivals all over India,” he says.

Humayun talks about how music is one of the most relaxing factors in his life. “I constantly keep learning new techniques and styles. Earlier, I used to play pop but I’m shifting to light jazz. There’s also an element of modern style coming into jazz, which is interesting but sometimes difficult to understand. But no matter what I play, I am enjoying every moment with music,” he says signing off.

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: Tech Admirers Edition: Online Journalist: Chris Ortiz Headline: Nanoelectromechanical Systems (NEMS) Market Continues Rapid Growth, Study Reveals Market Size for Emerging Segments Sun Innovations, Inc.,Cnano Technology Ltd URL: https://techadmirers.com/2019/11/24/nanoelectromechanical-systems-nems- market-continues-rapid-growth-study-reveals-market-size-for-emerging-segments-sun- innovations-inc-cnano-technology-ltd/

Nanoelectromechanical Systems (NEMS) Market Continues Rapid Growth, Study Reveals Market Size for Emerging Segments Sun Innovations, Inc.,Cnano Technology Ltd

HTF MI added a new research study in its database with title ‘Global Nanoelectromechanical Systems (NEMS) Market Report 2019 ‘ that includes detailed analysis, Competitive landscape, forecast and strategies. The study covers geographic analysis that includes regions like North America Country (United States, Canada),South America,Asia Country (China, Japan, India, Korea),Europe Country (Germany, UK, France, Italy),Other Country (Middle East, Africa, GCC) and important players/vendors such as . Sun Innovations, Inc.,Cnano Technology Ltd etc.The report will help user gain market insights, future trends and growth prospects for forecast period of 2019-2025

Request a sample report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample- report/2031816-global-nanoelectromechanical-systems Summary Global Nanoelectromechanical Systems (NEMS) Market Report 2019 Full Report: 2350 USD Multi License (Section): 4700 USD Section Price: As below Page: 115 Chart and Figure: 124

With the slowdown in world economic growth, the Nanoelectromechanical Systems (NEMS) industry has also suffered a certain impact, but still maintained a relatively optimistic growth, the past four years, Nanoelectromechanical Systems (NEMS) market size to maintain the average annual growth rate of 0.163621518305 from 15.0 million $ in 2014 to 32.0 million $ in 2019, HTF Report analysts believe that in the next few years, Nanoelectromechanical Systems (NEMS) market size will be further expanded, we expect that by 2024, The market size of the Nanoelectromechanical Systems (NEMS) will reach 110.0 million $. This Report covers the manufacturers’ data, including: shipment, price, revenue, gross profit, interview record, business distribution etc., these data help the consumer know about the competitors better. This report also covers all the regions and countries of the world, which shows a regional development status, including market size, volume and value, as well as price data. Besides, the report also covers segment data, including: type segment, industry segment, channel segment etc. cover different segment market size, both volume and value. Also cover different industries clients information, which is very important for the manufacturers. If you need more information, please contact HTF Report

Date: 25th November 2019 Publication: Filmi beat Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: கானல뾿றல ஆரம்ꮿத்த ஃறபன் வார்.. ட்ힿட்டனர சத잿க்கힿ翁ம் அ玿த், ힿஜய் ர殿கர்கள் ! URL: https://tamil.filmibeat.com/news/ajith-and-vijay-fans-again-started-fan-war-in- twitter/articlecontent-pf115547-065244.html

கானல뾿றல ஆரம்ꮿத்த ஃறபன் வார்.. ட்ힿட்டனர சத잿க்கힿ翁ம் அ玿த், ힿஜய் ர殿கர்கள் ! ꮿ垿ல் படத்鎿ன் வ毂ல் 300 லகா羿 என்ற செய்鎿கள் சவளியான鎿ல் இ쏁ந்鏁 அ玿த், ힿஜய் ர殿கர்களின் ெை்மட ட்ힿட்டரில் சதாடர்ந்鏁 சகாை்羿쏁க்垿ற鏁. ힿ翁믁மற நாளான இன்쟁, காமல 믁தலல ட்ힿட்டரில் ힿஜய் ர殿கர்கள் ைற்쟁ை் அ玿த் ர殿கர்களிமடலய லேஷ்லடக் ெை்மட பயங்கரைாக நடந்鏁 வ쏁垿ற鏁.

ힿஜய் ர殿கர்கள் உ쏁வாக்垿ய #என்쟁ை்_எங்கள் _ힿஜய் லேஷ்லடக் ைற்쟁ை் அ玿த் ர殿கர்கள் உ쏁வாக்垿ய #TwitterEmperorsThalafans லேஷ்லட埁ை் ட்ힿட்டரில் 羿சரை்டா垿 வ쏁垿ற鏁.

தங்க쿁க்埁 ꮿ羿த்த ந羿கர் 므鏁 ힿஸ்வாெை் காட்翁வதற்காக ைற்சறா쏁 ந羿கமர பங்கைாக இரை்翁 க்쏂ப்க쿁ை் அ殿ங்கப்ப翁த்鎿 வ쏁垿ன்றனர்.

இந்த ெை்மட இ쏁க்埁ை் வமர தான் தங்க쿁க்埁 ைார்க்சகட் இ쏁க்埁ை் என்பமத அ잿ந்鏁 அந்த ந羿கர்க쿁ை், லநர羿யாக இறங்垿 ெை்மடமய த翁க்கலவா தힿர்க்கலவா 믁ன் வ쏁வ鎿ல்மல.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: DT Next Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: Startups compete in Lotte, IIT-M event

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M to host 'Makeathon'

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu - Tamil Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: IIT-M to host 'Makeathon'

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Palar check dam ready before schedule

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Lotte Accelerator, IIT-Madras Research Park reward three startups URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/lotte-accelerator-iit- madras-research-park-reward-three-startups/articleshow/72227626.cms

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: PSU Connect Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: SRPL to implement new technology drinking water solutions in Tamilnadu URL: http://www.psuconnect.in/news/srpl-to-implement-new-technology-drinking- water-solutions-in-tamilnadu/20154

SRPL to implement new technology drinking water solutions in Tamilnadu

IndianOil and IIT Madras have entered into an agreement for providing 3 nos. of solar powered digital drinking water kiosks using CDI ( Capacitive De-Ionisation) Technology in rural villages of Ramanathapuram and Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu under CSR at IC&SR Office, IIT Madras in Chennai on November 22, 2019. This technology would offer low water wastage, low energy requirements with better control over quality of treated water.

On the occasion, Mr DS Nanaware, ED (SRPL) stated that the need for innovative technologies like CDI for purification of drinking water which is increasingly becoming a rare commodity in the days to come. Mr Ravindra Getu, Dean IC& SR, IITM and senior officials from IndianOil SRPL and IIT, Madras present on the occasion.

CDI is a water purification technology that uses electrodes to remove the charged ion species from aqueous solutions. The feed water is deionised by applying an electrical potential difference over two electrodes, which are made of porous carbon. Anions are removed from the water and are stored in the positively polarized electrode. Likewise, cations are stored in the cathode, which is the negatively polarized electrode. The charged particles are electrostatically held in the double layer until the discharging step, where the external power supply is shorted or its polarity reversed.

Most treatment systems waste more water than they treat. The maximum water wastage in this CDI system during treatment is 20%, unlike in Reverse Osmosis plants wherein the water wastage is more than 60%. This results in long-term conservation of source water. CDI systems retains essential minerals like calcium, magnesium etc. that are required for body while removing toxins like fluoride, arsenic, nitrates etc. This results in delivery of healthy drinking water to the community. Further low pressures are required for the operation of the CDI plant unlike RO plants. The CDI digital water kiosk requires single- phase power and hence can be solar operated which is further a step towards reduced carbon footprint. Hence it can be an effective alternative to RO water treatment systems.

IndianOil officials were taken to the International Centre for Clean Water (ICCW) inside the IIT Madras Research Park wherein Mr. Nanda Kumar, CEO, ICCW explained the various state-of-the-art equipment deployed for water research and product design. The CSR project will be implemented by Southern Region Pipelines (SRPL), Chennai.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: The Economic Times Edition: Online Journalist: NA Alumni: Mr. Mahek Mahendra Shah Headline: Garbage bins become ‘smart’, alert civic bodies when it overflows URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/small-biz/startups/features/garbage-bins- become-smart-alert-civic-bodies-when-it-overflows/articleshow/72217735.cms

Garbage bins become ‘smart’, alert civic bodies when it overflows A common sight along sidewalks in many Indian cities is a heap of stinking litter circling the municipal garbage bin rather than being inside it. While this often happens due to lack of effort by citizens to toss the garbage directly into the bin, many times it is also due to overfilled bins, which leave citizens with no other option than to tiptoe around the bin and throw the waste nearby. If only there was a more efficient waste disposal system where sanitation workers would be alerted when the bins have reached their saturation point, waste management would have become much more convenient for both citizens and civic bodies. This is what IIT-Madras alumni Mahek Mahendra Shah is trying to achieve.

Called Airbin (short for Artificial Intelligence Radio Bins), Shah’s startup, Antariksh Waste Ventures, has transformed a regular municipal dustbin into a smart bin, which will identify when the bin is about to get completely filled with trash and then notify residents, sanitation workers and municipal authorities through an app.

Business is a ‘load of crap’ Notably, Shah had developed the SwachhBharatApp.com around the same time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan back in September 2014. The app enabled citizens to click pictures of civic problems in their areas followed by Twitter auto-composing a message tagging concerned authorities.

“An analysis was done of thousands of crowdsourced citizen complaints via our app and we identified garbage not being cleared a potential business opportunity which can be catered to using new smart city technologies in India,” Shah told ET.

This led to the creation of an IoT-based smart bin technology that would send real-time data to the cloud about the levels of garbage filled in the bins and subsequently alert residents and civic bodies.

The technology works using two components- sensors and an IoT module. Combinations of sensors are attached to the bin which would keep track of the load and garbage levels in the bin. The IoT module, which comprises of a microchip, is also fitted to the bin and receives and sends data through a wireless technology.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Daily research Chronicle Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Scientists Find New Option for Cheap Fuel Cell URL: https://dailyresearchchronicle.com/2019/11/25/scientists-find-new-option-for- cheap-fuel-cell/

Scientists Find New Option for Cheap Fuel Cell Scientists’ efforts to find affordable and sustainable alternatives to expensive platinum catalysts used in fuel cells have found a new breakthrough. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and scientists from the UK and China have developed zirconium nitride nanoparticles which can be an economical alternative to platinum catalysts used in fuel cells. The cost of a platinum catalyst used in a fuel cell is about 20 percent of the total value of the cell.

Platinum is a rare metal which costs up to three thousand rupees per gram. On the other hand, zirconium is present on earth in plenty and it is also up to 700 times cheaper than platinum. Researchers say that cheaper and better fuel cells could be seen in the market in the near future if these nanoparticles are actually used. In addition to IIT Madras researcher Teeju Thomas, the study includes Yao Yuan, Hangjia Sen and Sameera Adimi of the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering in China, Jiacheng Wang of the Shanghai Institute of Ceramics and Rugang Ma, UK University of Edinburgh KJ Paul Atfield and Minghui Yang, a scientist at the University of China Academy of Sciences, was involved. This study has recently been published in the research journal Nature Materials.

Date: 26th November 2019 Publication: Factcrescendo.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: சேன்னன ஐஐ羿뾿ல் மꟁதர்ம ோஸ்鎿ரம் , தனித்தனி னக க폁ퟁம் இடம் என்쟁 ப垿ரப்ப翁ம் படங்கள் உண்னமயா? URL: https://tamil.factcrescendo.com/factcheck-special-counter-for-vegetarian-food- in-iit-madras/

சேன்னன ஐஐ羿뾿ல் மꟁதர்ம ோஸ்鎿ரம் , தனித்தனி னக க폁ퟁம் இடம் என்쟁 ப垿ரப்ப翁ம் படங்கள் உண்னமயா?

சென்மன ஐஐ羿-뾿ல் ைꟁ தர்ை ொஸ்鎿ரத்鎿ல் அமெவ உைퟁ உட்சகாள்வ鏁 பற்잿 埁잿ப்ꮿட்翁ள்ள க쏁த்鏁 கல்சவட்டாக மவக்கப்பட்翁ள்ள鏁 லபாலퟁை், மெவை், அமெவை் ொப்ꮿ翁பவர்க쿁க்埁 தனித்தனி மக க폁ퟁை் இடை் உள்ள鏁 லபாலퟁை் 殿ல படங்கள் ெ믂க ஊடகங்களில் மவரலாக ப垿ரப்பட்翁 வ쏁垿ற鏁. இதன் நை்பகத்தன்மைமய ஆய்ퟁ செய்லதாை்.

믂ன்쟁 படங்கள் ப鎿ힿடப்பட்翁ள்ளன. 믁தல் படத்鎿ல், “ꏂ쟁 வ쏁ஷ காலை் வ쏁ஷந்லதா쟁ை் அ毁வலைத யாகை் செய்த பயꟁை், ைா뮿ெ லபாஜனை் செய்யாத பயꟁை் ெைை் – ைꟁ தர்ை ொத்鎿ரை்” என்쟁 உள்ள鏁. இரை்டாவ鏁 படத்鎿ல், மெவ உைퟁ ொப்ꮿ翁பவர்க쿁க்கான ꏁமழ뿁ை், சவளிலய쟁ை் வ펿 என்쟁 உள்ள鏁. 믂ன்றாவ鏁 படத்鎿ல், மெவ உைퟁ ொப்ꮿ翁பவர்க쿁க்கான மக க폁ퟁை் இடை் என்쟁 உள்ள鏁. இந்த படை் எங்லக எ翁க்கப்பட்ட鏁 என்쟁 அ鎿ல் 埁잿ப்ꮿடힿல்மல.

நிமலத் தகவ쮿ல், ஐ.ஐ.羿 சென்மன뾿ல் எ翁க்கப்பட்ட படை் என்쟁 埁잿ப்ꮿட்翁ள்ளனர். லை쯁ை், அ鎿ல், “ஐஐ羿-சென்மன அக்ரகாரத்鎿ல் நퟀன 鏀ை்டாமை, காைாமை, ஏற்쟁க்சகாள்ளாமை!

படை் 1: ஐஐ羿 உைퟁக்埂டத்鎿ல் அமெவை் ொப்ꮿ翁லவா쏁க்埁 ைட்翁ை் எ鎿ராக எ폁தப்பட்ட #அதர்ைை்.

படை் 2: #ஐஐ羿மெவங்கள் இ쏁வமகப்ப翁ை். ‘சவங்காயை்-ꯂை்翁 இல்லா மெவை்’ அ鎿ல் ஒ쏁வமக. இரை்翁 மெவத்鏁க்埁ை் தனித்தனி உைퟁக்埂டை்.

படை் 3: அமெவை்/மெவை் ொப்ꮿ翁ை் இடை்தான் தனித்தனியாக பார்த்鎿쏁க்垿லறன் … ஆனால், #மகக폁ퟁ뮿ட믁ை் #தனித்தனியாக ஐஐ羿뾿ல்தான் காை்垿லறன் .

இ鎿ல் இரை்மட லகள்ힿக்埁ட்ப翁த்鎿 சகாஞ்ெை் 殿ந்鎿ப்லபாை்:

1. அமெவ鏁க்埁 எ鎿ராக ைட்翁ை் மவக்கப்பட்ட鏁 லபால… ꯂை்翁-சவங்காயத்鏁க்埁 எ鎿ரான ஏலதꟁை் ஒ쏁 வாெகை், அமத ொப்ꮿ翁ை் இடத்鎿ல் ஏ鏁뮿ல்மலலய ஏன் ..? 2. தனித்தனி உைퟁக்埂டை் இ쏁ந்தா쯁ை்… ꯂை்翁-சவங்காயைற்ற மெவத்鏁க்埁ை் ொதா மெவத்鏁க்埁ை் தனித்தனி மகக폁ퟁை் இட뮿ல்மலலய ஏன் ..?

அப்ப羿ன்னா… இந்த பா埁பா翁கள் யாퟁை் ‘உைமவ அ羿ப்பமடயாக மவத்鏁 அல்ல’ என்쟁 நைக்埁 எளிதாக ꯁரி垿றதல்லவா..?!” என்쟁 埁잿ப்ꮿட்翁ள்ளனர்.

இந்த ப鎿மவ, S P Udayakumaran என்பவர் நவை்பர் 18, 2019 அன்쟁 சவளி뾿ட்翁ள்ளார். பல쏁ை் இமத லஷர் செய்鏁 வ쏁垿ன்றனர்.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Delhi / Mumbai / Pune / Bangalore / Hyderabad / Chennai / Kolkata / Kochi / Ahmedabad / Chandigarh Page No: 15 Journalist: Ragu Raman Headline: Team Chennai Engineers A Win In Tie-Breaker

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Hindustan Times Edition: Delhi / Faridabad / Gurgaon / Noida Page No: 19 Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. V. Kamakoti Headline: Conference on info security

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Mini culturáis ahead of Saarang

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Chennai Corporation launches battery-operated tricycles to collect garbage URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-corporation-launches- battery-operated-tricycles-to-collect-garbage/article30085467.ece

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Your Story Edition: Online Journalist: NA Alumni: Mr.Ajay Nain and Mr. Prateek Chaturvedi Headline: [Funding alert] Tech-enabled platform for kiranas Gully Network raises Rs 5 Cr from Orios Venture Partners URL: https://yourstory.com/2019/11/funding-tech-enabled-startup-kiranas-gully-network- orios-venture-partners

[Funding alert] Tech-enabled platform for kiranas Gully Network raises Rs 5 Cr from Orios Venture Partners

Tech-enabled chain for small kirana stores, Gully Network Retail, on Tuesday, announced the closure of its seed round of Rs 5 crore from Orios Venture Partners. The startup was founded in August 2019. by IIT Madras and IIM Ahmedabad alumni Ajay Nain and Prateek Chaturvedi. It aims to organise offline retail stores, which, according to the founders, comprise nearly 95 percent of the grocery retail category today. In a statement, Ajay said, “In the last few years, the Indian grocery retail ecosystem has witnessed new solutions, such as B2B supply, PoS, and finance. However, there is nothing which solves 360-degree pain points of retailers and their hyperlocal consumers. Retailers still waste hours comparing prices on B2B apps and following up with traditional distributors. Hence, we take care of sales, margins, inventory, merchandise and additional income for the retailers in our network, ensuring an increase in net income of retailers with no day to day hassles while enabling them, through technology”

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: VC Circle Edition: Online Journalist: NA Alumni: Mr. Nain Headline: Orios Venture Partners bets on startup floated by RentoMojo co-founder URL: https://www.vccircle.com/orios-venture-partners-bets-on-startup-floated-by- rentomojo-co-founder

Orios Venture Partners bets on startup floated by RentoMojo co-founder Early-stage venture capital firm Orios Venture Partners has invested Rs 5 crore (nearly $700,000) in Gully Network Retail, a technology-enabled chain of small-format kirana stores.

Ajay Nain, co-founder at Gully Network Retail, said the firm ensures an increase in net income of retailers through technology. “We take care of sales, margins, finance, inventory, merchandise and additional income for the retailers in our network,” he said.

An alumnus of IIT Madras, Nain earlier co-founded RentoMojo, an online rental marketplace for furniture, home appliances, and bikes. He joined hands with Prateek Chaturvedi, an alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad, to float Gully Network in August this year.

Gully Network is a platform that transforms a small-format business into an omnichannel modern store. The firm, which currently operates in Bengaluru, has 25 stores in its chain and aims to have at least one store at every one-kilometer radius across the country.

Anup Jain, managing partner at Orios Venture Partners, said the Indian grocery retail market is approximately 70% of the total retail market in India today. However, we have seen little transformation on ground in the 15 million small format kirana stores which comprise over 90% of this market, he adds.

Orios has backed several startups through its two funds so far, particularly in online consumer technology and the SaaS segment.

Some of its known bets are online lingerie brand Pretty Secrets, beauty appointment booking app Ziffi, on-demand home services company TaskBob, internet-first daily affordable meal delivery company Yumist and budget accommodation provider Zo Rooms, healthcare financing firm LetsMD and online pharmacy PharmEasy.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Pagal Guy Edition: Online Journalist: NA Student: Mr. Shubham Nandeshwar Headline: INVENT@IITGN: Walking through the inventions of 2018 and 2019 URL: https://www.pagalguy.com/articles/inventiitgn-walking-through-the-inventions-of- 2018-and-2019

INVENT@IITGN: Walking through the inventions of 2018 and 2019

The patent system secured to the inventor for a limited time exclusive use of his inventions. It thereby added the fuel of interest to the fire of genius in the discovery and production of new and useful things.” – Abraham Lincoln, American statesman, lawyer, and the 16th president of the United States

Hi there, people! I hope you had an excellent start with the winters this year. Today, I was thinking of making you more familiar with the INVENT@IITGN programme at IIT Gandhinagar. The first of its kind in India, this initiative has gained immense popularity in a small span of just two years. In July, I did a short piece highlighting the history and some novel and compelling aspects of this programme. But, since Winter is Coming, I thought it would be a great idea if I could help you dig deeper into the adventurous journeys of its participants. Not only will it be interesting and educative, but inspirational and motivating as well. What better way than to start with their inventions in brief!

So, here we go!

June 2018 saw the beginning of this six-week inventing and patenting initiative for the first time in the country. After a competitive evaluation of 80+ applications, 20 students from 5 IITs across India were selected to compete in 10 teams for the first, second, and third prizes of Rs. 2 Lakh, Rs. 1 Lakh and Rs. 50 thousand, respectively. All participants received a stipend of Rs. 10 thousand for the successful completion of this initiative. They filed the Indian and U.S. patent applications for each of these inventions.

Yash Sharma and Haque Farazul from IIT Kharagpur invented the Irrigation, Weeding, and Pest Control Device winning the Best Invention award. Being an inexpensive and simple tool, it equips the farmers with efficient deep root irrigation, weed, and pest control for their crops.

IIT Gandhinagar’s Kratika Bhaktani and Kartik Karvaje secured the position of the Second Best Invention with their Manual CPR Device prototype. This inexpensive, portable, and compact mechanical device performs chest compressions at an optimal rate and proper depth, ventilates lungs, maintains an open airway, and indicates the compression rate.

The Third Best Invention prize went to Agrata Patel and Anshuman Dhar from IIT Guwahati. They devised Sleep Easy, a 5-min easy to install blanket on any bed-type. It can prevent injuries encountered by Parkinson’s patients suffering from REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder. It allows regular movements but restricts any violent thrashings utilizing a centrifugal clutch mechanism, commonly found in seat belts.

Protect-X, invented by Shubham Nandeshwar from IIT Madras and Tanmaey Gupta from IIT Gandhinagar, is an improved device to minimize the severity of rear underrun vehicular collisions. It helps in reducing the death toll involving cars and similar vehicle collisions with heavy load vehicles like trucks.

Bharath Chandra and Srishal from IIT Gandhinagar developed Load Carrier for labourers. It can significantly reduce the injuries confronted by them while carrying heavy loads on their backs.

IIT Guwahati’s Tejas Patil and IIT Gandhinagar’s Rohit Singh innovated Fire Free. It is a temperature monitor and an electrical fire preventing adaptor. It pops the plug out in case of temperature rise at the socket junction, hence avoiding the risk of electrical fire accidents.

Portable and Foldable Toilet, designed by Suyash Patidar and Akshat Bansal from IIT Gandhinagar, is a detachable moving toilet. It comes with an oval flushing mechanism that requires the toilet bowl to rotate vertically. It eases waste dumping and hence reduces water usage.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: English News Track Edition: Online Journalist: Vinod Rathor Student: Mr. Ashutosh Upadhyay Headline: Two engineers makes self-balanced scooter, will protect it from accident URL: https://english.newstracklive.com/news/auto-market-news-in-hindi-sc99-nu- 1050544-1.html

Two engineers makes self-balanced scooter, will protect it from accident

Two IIT passout engineers from Indore city of Madhya Pradesh have designed a self- balance scooter. It is helpful in preventing accidents due to scooter imbalance. The specialty of a scooter is that you will not need to stand on the ground to make a balance. This voice command will be controlled by your voice. Also, you will be able to park it with voice command and get it out of the parking lot. It has been prepared by Vikas Poddar, a resident of Passout Indore from IIT Madras and Ashutosh Upadhyay of Passout Ujjain from IIT Kharagpur.

It is worth noting that the two together started Liger Mobility Startup in Mumbai. Vikas told Bhaskar, most of the accidents happen due to disbalance of the vehicles. We have designed this scooter to solve this problem. Ashutosh told that through our technology the scooter can balance itself, so there will be no need for the scooter to maintain the balance of the scooter with the help of feet.

According to a student development, it would be easier to drive on crowded roads. The initial capital for our project was raised by the founders of Liger Mobility. We got funding in two rounds from IIT Mumbai. We are now preparing for its production and launching. In this technique, the sensors installed in the vehicle send the data processor connected to the vehicle, which uses the Artificial Intelligence algorithm. This happens more than a thousand times per second, so that the scooter remains balanced even without the stand even when it is off.

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: BBC.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Professor: Prof. Aysha Iqbal Headline: The 100 greatest film directed by women: who voted? A-K URL: http://www.bbc.com/culture/story/20191126-the-100-greatest-films-directed-by- women-who-voted-a-l

The 100 greatest film directed by women: who voted? A-K

BBC Culture polled film experts around the world for their favourite films directed by women. In total, 368 critics, academics, industry figures and film programmers, from 84 countries responded. Each critic voted for 10 films, ranking them 1 (favourite) to 10 (10th favourite). We awarded 10 points per first ranked film, 9 per second ranked film, and so on down to 1. We then summed the points. The film with the most points won, and films with more individual votes in total ranked higher.

Aysha Iqbal – Professor at IIT Madras (India)

Date: 27th November 2019 Publication: Daily Stock Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Pak‘s inviation to Manmohan Singh for Kartarpur corridor stumps Congress URL: https://dailystockdish.com/paks-inviation-to-manmohan-singh-for-kartarpur- corridor-stumps-congress/

Pak‘s inviation to Manmohan Singh for Kartarpur corridor stumps Congress

Pak invitation for Manmohan

Congress leaders on Monday said they were intrigued by Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s statement that Islamabad would invite former prime minister (pictured) for the inaugural ceremony of the in November. Pakistan is scheduled to open the corridor for Indian Sikh pilgrims on November 9. “The inauguration is a big programme and Pakistan is preparing for it in a big way. We have decided to invite India’s former prime minister to grace the event… We will send a formal letter to him soon,” Qureshi told Capital TV. He said Singh represented the Sikh community. Singh was born in a village in Punjab province in undivided India but did not visit Pakistan during his 10 years as prime minister. Sources in the Congress said it was strange that the made a statement on this when such an invite should be routed through the ministry of external affairs.

Going paperless

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To make the functioning of the central government paperless, the Cabinet Secretariat has directed all ministries and departments to discontinue the “practice of sending offline progress reports or updates” and “action taken reports (ATRs)” for the eSamikSha portal. Last year, the Cabinet Secretariat had asked all ministries and departments to send regular updates of ATRs to implement the decisions of the cabinet and cabinet committee on economic affairs (CCEA). It has now said that some of the ministries and departments either do not upload ATRs regularly, or send these in offline/paper form. “Since the implementation of Cabinet/CCEA decisions is now tracked on eSamikSha, this is hampering effective monitoring,” an office memorandum stated. “In particular, the status of several Bills approved by the cabinet has not been updated on eSamikSha, even though they already stand enacted as law, after being passed by Parliament,” the Cabinet Secretariat said.

Attention Parliamentarians

A new solution developed during the Singapore-India Hackathon 2019 in IIT Madras may end up keeping an eye on our Members of Parliament if Prime Minister Narendra Modi sticks to his words. The solution in question is a device that detects who is paying attention during an event/meeting and who isn’t. “I specially like the solution about the cameras that detect who is paying attention. I will talk to my Speaker in the Parliament as I am sure it will be very useful for our Parliamentarians,” said Modi after the event.

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: The Indian Express Edition: Delhi / Mumbai / Pune / Kolkata / Ahmedabad / Faridabad / Gurgaon / Noida Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: QS Rankings: 8 India universities in Asia top 100, IIT Bombay 34th URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/qs-rankings-8-india-universities-in-asia- top-100-iit-bombay-34th-6140356/

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard Edition: Delhi / Mumbai / Hyderabad / Chennai / Ahmedabad / Bangalore / Kochi / Pune Page No: 1 & 16 Journalist: Vinay Umarji Headline: Leading Indian varsities post drop in QS World University Asia Rankings '20 URL: https://www.business-standard.com/article/education/leading-indian-varsities- post-drop-in-qs-world-university-asia-rankings-20-119112700639_1.html

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard - Hindi Edition: Delhi Page No: 14 Journalist: Vinay Umarji Headline: Leading Indian varsities post drop in QS World University Asia Rankings '20

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: The Economic Times Edition: Online Journalist: Sreeradha Basu Headline: India has 96 universities ranked, including 20 brand new entries in QS World University Rankings: Asia 2020 URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/services/education/india-has-96- universities-ranked-including-20-brand-new-entries-in-qs-world-university-rankings-asia- 2020/articleshow/72252255.cms

India has 96 universities ranked, including 20 brand new entries in QS World University Rankings: Asia 2020

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Online Journalist: NA Alumni: Mr. Chandra Krishna Headline: The Chennai Angels appoints new chief executive officer URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/the-chennai-angels- appoints-new-chief-executive-officer/articleshow/72266896.cms

The Chennai Angels appoints new chief executive officer

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: Sangeetha Kandavel Alumni: Mr. Chandra Krishna Headline: The Chennai Angels network gets its first CEO URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/the-chennai-angels-network-gets- its-first-ceo/article30094867.ece

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Business Line Edition: Chennai Page No: 17 Journalist: TE Raja Simhan Headline: At skill development conclave, TN to sign more MoUs with industry URL: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/at-skill-development- conclave-tn-to-sign-more-mous-with-industry/article30099195.ece

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Business Line Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Gully Network Retail raises Rs 5 crore in seed funding URL: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/msme/gully-network-retail- raises-rs-5-crore-in-seed-funding/article30096855.ece

Gully Network Retail raises Rs 5 crore in seed funding Gully Network Retail, a tech-enabled chain of small-format kirana stores, has raised Rs 5 crore in seed funding from Orios Venture Partners.

Orios is one of India’s leading seed-stage venture capital fund.

Gully Network develops a tech-enabled platform for a small-format business to be converted into an omni-channel modern store to help them compete against biggies.

Gully Network has been founded by Ajay Nain and Prateek Chaturvedi, alumni of IIT Madras and IIM Ahmedabad.

Anup Jain, Managing Partner at Orios Venture Partners said, “Indian grocery retail market is approximately 70% of total retail market in India today- a staggering $500 billion per annum. However, we have seen little transformation on ground in the 15 million small format kirana stores which comprise over 90% of this market even today."

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Capital Goods Industry Expected To Cross US$ 100 Billion By 2025: CII URL: https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-cm/capital-goods-industry- expected-to-cross-us-100-billion-by-2025-cii-119112700225_1.html

Capital Goods Industry Expected To Cross US$ 100 Billion By 2025: CII Dr A R Sihag, Secretary, Department of Heavy Industries, speaking at the 4th CII-DHI Capital Goods Summit said that demand generation, strengthening supplier base, investments, collaborations including industry-government-academia engagements and advanced skilling are combined to enhance the growth of the capital goods sector so far. Moving forward, an accelerated growth trajectory can be formed by taking the Make in India push to the next level and making value additions with design, technology ownership and addressing issues of technology development.

Articulating the demand side and supply side interventions for capital goods, the Secretary said, government has been doing a lot through infrastructure development for demand generation. DHI 's contributions are critical to the supply ecosystem in encouraging investment, R&D, building investment efficiencies, reducing imports, developing technology, skill building, etc. Capital Goods being a deregulated sector with no regulatory hurdle, he encouraged industry to make investment into sector.

Adding further he said, as India's GDP is expected to reach US$ 5 trillion by FY25, key areas like heavy industries play a very prominent role in terms of the significant contribution of the sectors to the national economy. Capital Goods industry which has crossed the production value of US$ 70 billion in 2017 is expected to cross US$ 100 billion by 2025. It contributes around 2% to GDP and has a large multiplier effect on employment. Investment, technology and R&D will play the key enablers towards such growth target. For technology development and enhancing competitiveness of the sector, the Capital Goods scheme can largely be scaled up, said Dr Sihag.

With 0.6% global share, India's export performance in the capital goods sector has also been modest in comparison to imports. Export must also account for 40% of engineering goods production from the current share of 27%. Highlighting the issue of competing supplier, he said, we should be net exporter for capital goods. He emphasised there should be level-playing field to compete with foreign suppliers in terms of logistics, cost of capital and infrastructure. To support industry, Government is ready to work towards a phased manufacturing programme including tweaking of duty structure with reasonable justifications, trade regulations and correcting inverted duty structure, etc.

To indigenise manufacturing capabilities in India, IIT Madras has launched the advanced manufacturing technology development centre which is working with industry on various aspects including the smart manufacturing platform for production processes. He invited suggestions on what more DHI can do to handhold the MSME sector and promote the start-up ecosystem to keep the bottom up approach and encourage high entrepreneurship efforts for the supply chain.

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: NDTV Edition: Online Journalist: Maitree Baral Headline: GATE 2020: IIT Delhi Releases Schedule. 8.6 Lakh To Take Exam URL: https://www.ndtv.com/education/gate-2020-exam-dates-announced-2139499

GATE 2020: IIT Delhi Releases Schedule. 8.6 Lakh To Take Exam

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) will be held on February 1, 2, 8 and 9, 2020. IIT Delhi, the exam organizing body for GATE 2020 has released the exam schedule today. 8.6 lakh candidates have registered for the GATE 2020. The exam will be held in 8 sessions for 25 subjects. GATE 2020 Date Sheet

February 1 (9.30 am to 12.30 pm): IN, ME1, MT, PE, PH February 1 (2.30 pm to 5.30 pm): CY, ME2, PI February 2 (9.30 am to 12.30 pm): AR, BM, BT, CH, MA, MN, ST, XE, XL February 2 (2.30 pm to 5.30 pm): AE, AG, EC, GG February 8 (9.30 am to 12.30 pm): EE, EY, TF February 8 (2.30 pm to 5.30 pm): CS February 9 (9.30 am to 12.30 pm): CE1 February 9 (14.30 pm to 5.30 pm): CE2 GATE Previous Years' Question Papers

Admit card for GATE 2020 will be released on January 3.

GATE is conducted jointly by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore and the seven Indian Institutes of Technology (at Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Madras, and Roorkee).

Date: 28th November 2019 Publication: India Education Diary Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: GATE 2020: IIT Delhi releases Scheduling of GATE Papers in different sessions URL: https://indiaeducationdiary.in/gate-2020-iit-delhi-releases-scheduling-of-gate- papers-in-different-sessions/

GATE 2020: IIT Delhi releases Scheduling of GATE Papers in different sessions IIT Delhi is the organizing institute for GATE 2020, which will be conducted in 8 sessions on Feb 1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th Feb, 2020, for which around 8.6 lakh candidates have applied.

GATE Committee has finalized the session scheduling for 25 papers as the following:

S No Session Code Examination Date & Day Time Paper(s) Code 1 S1 01 February 2020 (Saturday) 09:30 – 12:30 hrs (Forenoon Session)

IN, ME1, MT, PE, PH 2 S2 01 February 2020 (Saturday) 14:30 – 17:30 hrs (Afternoon Session)

CY, ME2, PI 3 S3 02 February 2020 (Sunday) 09:30 – 12:30 hrs (Forenoon Session)

AR, BM, BT, CH, MA, MN, ST, XE, XL 4 S4 02 February 2020 (Sunday) 14:30 – 17:30 hrs (Afternoon Session)

AE, AG, EC, GG 5 S5 08 February 2020 (Saturday) 09:30 – 12:30 hrs (Forenoon Session)

EE, EY, TF 6 S6 08 February 2020 (Saturday) 14:30 – 17:30 hrs (Afternoon Session)

CS 7 S7 09 February 2020 (Sunday) 09:30 – 12:30 hrs (Forenoon Session)

CE1 8 S8 09 February 2020 (Sunday) 14:30 – 17:30 hrs (Afternoon Session)

CE2

Civil Engineering and Mechanical Engineering papers will be held in two sessions each while other 23 papers will be held in single session spread over 8 sessions.

GATE 2020: GATE PAPERS’ CODE

AE Aerospace Engineering

AG Agricultural Engineering

AR Architecture and Planning

BM Bio-medical Engineering

BT Biotechnology

CE Civil Engineering

CH Chemical Engineering

CS Computer Science and Information Technology

CY Chemistry

EC Electronics and Communication Engineering

EE Electrical Engineering

EY Ecology and Evolution

GG Geology and Geophysics

IN Instrumentation Engineering

MA Mathematics

ME Mechanical Engineering

MN Mining Engineering

MT Metallurgical Engineering

PE Petroleum Engineering

PH Physics

PI Production and Industrial Engineering

ST Statistics

TF Textile Engineering and Fibre Science

XE Engineering Sciences

XL Life Sciences

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: Dainik Bhaskar Edition: Delhi Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Professor: Headline: QS Ranking: IIT Mumbai is on 34th and IIT Madras is on 50th Ranks in QS ranking

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: The Indian Express Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: QS Rankings: 8 Indian universities in Asia top 100, IIT Bombay 34th URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/qs-rankings-8-india-universities-in-asia- top-100-iit-bombay-34th-6140356/

QS Rankings: 8 Indian universities in Asia top 100, IIT Bombay 34th In the latest QS World University Rankings for Asia, 96 Indian institutions rank among 550 for the continent. Of the 96 Indian universities ranked, 20 are brand-new entries. Only Mainland China is more represented than India, with 118 featured universities.

While Mainland China has four in the top 10 this year, India does not yet have a university among the top 30. The 96 Indian universities featured in the rankings include eight among the top 100, and 31 among the top 250. Of these 31, 18 dropped compared to last year, 12 gained ground and one remained stable.

Read this story in Tamil

The best performing institution from India is IIT Bombay, which drops one place to 34th position. It is followed by IIT Delhi at 43rd place and IIT Madras at 50th.

The QS Rankings use a methodology based on 11 metrics. IIT Bombay is the best Indian university in the ‘Academic Reputation’ indicator, which utilises the insights of over 94,000 academics regarding university quality. It ranks 32nd in Asia in this dimension. IIT Delhi (34th) and the University of Delhi (50th) are next.

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: CNBC TV 18 Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: QS World University Rankings for Asia 2020: These are the top ten universities in India URL: https://www.cnbctv18.com/photos/politics/qs-world-university-rankings-for-asia- 2020-these-are-the-top-ten-universities-in-india-4780401.htm

QS World University Rankings for Asia 2020: These are the top ten universities in India

IITs, led by the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, dominated the QS World University Rankings for Asia 2020. While IITs secured seven of the top ten positions, the remaining spots were held by IISC, Bengaluru, University of Delhi and the University of Hyderabad. These are the top ten universities in India IIT Madras: The college is located in Chennai and was founded in 1959. It was the third IIT that was established by the government of India. (Image: Facebook/ IIT Madras)

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: Business Insider Edition: Online Journalist: Prerna Sindwani Headline: India’s IIT Indore crawls up by 53 places in the top 200 Asian universities while 8 other IITs drop URL: https://www.businessinsider.in/education/news/indias-iit-indore-crawls-up-by-53- places-in-the-top-200-asian-universities-while-8-other-iits-drop/articleshow/72276602.cms

India’s IIT Indore crawls up by 53 places in the top 200 Asian universities while 8 other IITs drop

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: Amar Ujala Edition: Delhi Page No: 7 Journalist: NA Headline: QS ranking of Indian educational institutions fell

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: Dainik Bhaskar Edition: Delhi Page No: 14 Journalist: NA Headline: QS Rankings 2020: 8 Indian universities in Asia top 100

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Online Journalist: Pon Vasanth B.A Headline: Situation in IIT Madras grave when it comes to SC/ST students and faculty, says NCSC member Swaraj Vidwaan URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/situation-in-iit-madras- grave-when-it-comes-to-sc-st-students-and-faculty-says-swaraj- vidwaan/article30114598.ece

Situation in IIT Madras grave when it comes to SC/ST students and faculty, says NCSC member Swaraj Vidwaan

National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) Member, Swaraj Vidwaan, on Friday said that the situation in IIT-Madras was grave and deeply concerning when it came to students and faculty belonging to Scheduled Castes, (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities.

Addressing media in the backdrop of the Coordination Committee meeting of the Federation of All IITs SC ST Employees Associations, for which she is the patron, Ms. Swaraj said that the reservation policy was not followed properly in faculty appointments and students admissions at IIT-Madras.

Ms. Swaraj said she had learnt from data collected by students and faculty members that of the 2,320 admissions made to M.S. programme in the last ten years, only 47 were from SC and six from ST communities. Similarly, she said that of the 3,846 Ph. D admissions in the last 10 years, only 213 were from SC and 21 from ST. “This is alarming,” she said.

The situation was the same when it came to the appointments and promotions of faculty members. “Reservation policy is not followed at all in engaging employees through outsourcing,” she said. She also said it was unjustifiable that the IIT-M administration has not recognised the SC ST Employees Welfare Association.

“Also, some of these issues could have been addressed if the SC ST Liaison Officer was discharging his duty properly. We hear that is not the case. The present officer must be changed,” she said.

Ms. Swaraj stressed the need to immediately form a functioning SC ST grievance redressal cell. She said that employees from SC, ST and even OBC communities faced discrimination, mental harassment, and lived in constant fear of receiving memos or other punitive action if they raised any issues.

Pointing out that she had visited at least three IITs before, Ms. Swaraj said the situation here seemed to be the worst. “The administration is functioning like a dictatorship,” she said, adding that all the students, including those from general communities faced numerous issues.

Highlighting that around 15 students have committed suicide in the last decade including the recent death of Fathima Latheef, she said the administration does not seem to have gone deep into the causes of these deaths and taken measures to prevent them. “I have sought details of how many of these students were from SC ST or OBC communities,” she said.

Stating that she had met the Director of IIT-Madras during this visit before all these issues were brought to her notice, she said she will issue a notice to the Director regarding all these issues. “I will also personally take it up with the President of India, Prime Minister, and the Minister for Human Resources Development since the issues are serious,” she said.

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: Forbes India Edition: Magazine Page No: 46 & 47 Journalist: NA Headline: The House that Nadar Built

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: India Today Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras HSEE 2020 registration to begin from this date: Check important details here URL: https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/notification/story/iit-madras-hsee- 2020-registration-to-begin-from-this-date-check-important-details-here-1623655-2019-11- 29

IIT Madras HSEE 2020 registration to begin from this date: Check important details here IIT Madras HSEE 2020 registration: Attention candidates, IIT Madras have officially released the brochure for HSEE 2020. The brochure is available on the official website of HSEE i.e. hsee.iitm.ac.in. As per the notification, the registration process will start from December 11, 2019, and the last date to apply is January 22, 2020. The examination is scheduled for April 19, 2020.

IIT Madras HSEE 2020 registration: Steps to check the notification Step 1: Visit the official website i.e. hsee.iitm.ac.in Step 2: On the homepage click on the link which says 'HSEE brochure available here' Step 3: A new page will appear Step 4: Click on the download option Step 5: Download the brochure and read it carefully.

IIT Madras HSEE 2020 registration: Important dates The registration process to begin from December 11, 2019 The last date to apply for option A is January 22, 2020 The last date to apply for option B is January 23, 2020 Admit card to be out on March 18, 2020 Examination date: April 19, 2020 IIT Madras HSEE 2020: Important information There are two streams of programme: Development studies and English studies. Total number of seats is 52 Candidates belonging to the general category will have to pay Rs 2400 as examination fees and Rs 1200 if belonging to SC/ST/PwD category. Official website to keep in mind is hsee.iitm.ac.in About HSEE: The Humanities and Social Sciences Entrance Examination or HSEE is a national level entrance test conducted every year by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras for admission to the master programme offered by the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) of the Institute.

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: Jagran Josh Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras HSEE 2020 Schedule released, Check at hsee.iitm.ac.in URL: https://www.jagranjosh.com/news/hsee-2020-schedule-released-check-at-hsee- iitm-ac-in-152421

IIT Madras HSEE 2020 Schedule released, Check at hsee.iitm.ac.in Indian Institute of Technology, Madras will commence the registration and application process for Humanities and Social Science Entrance Examination by December 11, 2019. Candidates interested to appear for the entrance examination can visit the official website to check the schedule of the admission process.

According to the notification published on the official website - hsee.iitm.ac.in, HSEE 2020 will be conducted on April 19, 2020. The application process will span for about a month, the last date to submit the application form for HSEE 2020 is January 22, 2020. Candidates can check the complete admission schedule for HSEE 2020 here.

HSEE 2020 Schedule Activity

Date

HSEE 2020 Online Application and Payment of Examination Fee - Starts Payment Option A: Net Banking / Credit Card / Debit Card – Starts Payment Option B: Indian Bank Challan - Starts

December 11, 2019

Last Date for submission of online application

1) January 22, 2020

2) January 23, 2020

Last date for submission with payment made by Option A - Ends

Last date for submission with payment made by Option B (step -2 must have been completed by January 22, 2020) - Ends

Application Status Check Starts

February 17, 2020

Last date to check application status

March 06, 2020

Download HSEE 2020 admit card

March 18, 2020

Last date to download HSEE 2020 admit card

April 19, 2020

HSEE 2020 date

April 19, 2020

HSEE 2020 Result

May 15, 2020

Download offer letter

May 16, 2020

Indian Institute of Technology, Madras conducts the Humanities and Social Sciences Entrance Examination for the admission to the Master's programmes offered by the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences at IIT Madras.

The information brochure for HSEE 2020 is available on the official website. Candidates can also download the HSEE 2020 information brochure through the direct link provided below.

Direct Link to download HSEE 2020 Brochure

Before the registration process for HSEE 2020 commences, candidates are advised to download the information brochure to get all the necessary information about the examination, Candidates are also advised to read through the eligibility criteria provided on the official website for the respective courses.

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: News 18 Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras HSEE 2020 Schedule released, Check at hsee.iitm.ac.in URL: https://hindi.news18.com/news/career/iit-madras-hsee-2020-registration-to-begins- on-dec-11-at-hsee-iitm-ac-in-2649298.html

IIT Madras HSEE 2020 Schedule released, Check at hsee.iitm.ac.in

11 डद‍संबर 2019 से आईआईटी मद्रास एचएसईई 2020 (IIT Madras HSEE 2020) के डलये रडजथ‍टरेशन प्रडिया शु셂 हो रहा है. इंडियन इंथ‍टीट्यूट ऑफ मद्रास (Indian Institute of Madras), 19 अप्रैल 2020 को ह्यूमैडनटीज एंि सोशल साइंसेज एंटरेंस ए嵍‍जाडमनेशन 2020 को आयोडजत करेगा. इस परीक्षा के डल‍ये आवेदन करने वाले उ륍‍मीदवारों को HSEE की आडिकाररक वेबसाइट hsee.iitm.ac.in पर जाना होगा. आवेदन करने की आल्कखरी तारीख 22 जनवरी 2019 है.

HSEE-2020 परीक्षा के डल‍ये एिडमट कािफ 18 माचफ को जारी होगा. इसके जररये कुल 52 सीटों पर दाल्कखला होना है.

IIT Madras HSEE 2020: मह配‍वपूणफ तारीखें

ऑꥍ‍शन -A के डल‍ये आवेदन की आल्कख‍री तारीख: 22 जनवरी 2020 ऑꥍ‍शन- B के डल‍ये आवेदन की आल्कखरी तारीख: 23 जनवरी 2020 एिडमट कािफ कब जारी होगी: 18 माचफ 2020 Ad

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HSEE-2020 परीक्षा की तारीख: 19 अप्रैल 2020 ररज쥍‍ट कब जारी होगी: 15 मई 2020

सीटों पर एिडमशन, परीक्षा के पररणाम पर डनभफर करेगा. इस प्रोग्राम में कुल 52 सीटें है. हर थ‍टरीम के डल‍ये 26 सीटें हℂ.

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: The Asian Age Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Samsung to hire 1,200 Indian engineerings graduates for its R&D centres URL: http://www.asianage.com/technology/in-other-news/291119/samsung-to-hire- 1200-indian-engineerings-graduates-for-its-rd-centres.html

Samsung to hire 1,200 Indian engineerings graduates for its R&D centres Samsung is planning to hire over 1,200 engineers from IITs and other top engineering colleges in India this hiring season, strengthening its strong R&D operations in India. The company will expand its outreach to newer IITs to ensure it hires the best talent.

Bright engineers from these top institutions will work on future technologies and domains such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep learning, Image Processing, Middleware Development, Cloud, IoT, Recognition systems, Data analysis, On Device AI, Mobile Communications, Networks, Imaging, Voice, VLSI and UI/UX.

Beginning December 1, the three R&D centres of Samsung in Bengaluru, Noida and Delhi will visit IIT campuses in Delhi, Kanpur, Mumbai, Madras, Guwahati, Kharagpur, BHU, Roorkie, Pallakad, Tirupati, Indore, Gandhinagar, Patna, Bhubaneswar, Mandi and Jodhpur. IIT Bhilai is the newest edition to this list.

Samsung plans to hire students from multiple streams including Computer Science, Electronics and Communications, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computing, Instrumentation and Information Technology to support its efforts to bring innovative solutions that enable people to do more.

Apart from the IITs, Samsung will also be hiring from other top engineering colleges such as BITS Pilani, IIITs, NITs, Delhi Technological University, Manipal Institute of Technology, IISc Bangalore.

The R&D centres in India have a strong culture of patent filing and have filed over 2,900 patents till date. A specialized team conducts basic invention creation training, advanced inventive step training and training for top quality invention creation to help employees understand the idea of innovation and how to innovate.

Samsung’s Bengaluru R&D centre has been home to some of the latest technologies deployed on flagship devices including Galaxy Note10. It is the largest R&D centre outside of Korea and has been instrumental in enhancing the camera capabilities of Samsung smartphones, optimizing voice assistant ‘Bixby’ to understand Indian accents and driving the ‘Make for India’ initiative at large.

In 2017, Samsung had said it will hire 2,500 engineers by 2020; it hired 1,000 engineers each in 2017 and 2018 and will be hiring over 1,200 engineers this year. The company is focused on nurturing Indian talent and enabling them to drive global innovations.

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: Times Now Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: IIT Madras HSEE 2020: Registration starts on Dec 11 on hsee.iitm.ac.in, exam on April 19-official notice here URL: https://www.timesnownews.com/education/article/iit-madras-hsee-2020- registration-starts-on-dec-11-on-hsee-iitm-ac-in-exam-on-april-19-official-notice- here/520852

IIT Madras HSEE 2020: Registration starts on Dec 11 on hsee.iitm.ac.in, exam on April 19- official notice here

Indian Institute of Madras will start the registration process of IIT Madras HSEE 2020 on December 11, 2019. Candidates who want to apply for Humanities and Social Sciences Entrance Examination 2020 can apply for the examination through the official site of HSEE at hsee.iitm.ac.in. The last date to apply for the exam is till January 22, 2019.

HSEE-2020 is intended to admit students to this programme in two streams: (1) Development Studies and (2) English Studies. The total number of seats allotted for the programme is 52. Candidates can check important dates, eligibility, selection process and other details from the official notification available here.

IIT Madras HSEE 2020: Important Dates Opening date of application December 11, 2019 Closing date of application for Option A January 22, 2020 Closing date of application for Option B January 23, 2020 Date for release of Admit Card March 18, 2020 Examination Date for HSEE-2020 April 19, 2020 Declaration of Result May 15, 2020

The admission process solely depends on the examination. The program has a total of 52 seats; each stream will have 26 seats. Allocations of seats to individual streams will be made based on the academic performance of students (CGPA) during the first three semesters, students' preferences, and availability of seats under each discipline.

Candidates belonging to other categories will have to pay Rs 2400/- as examination fees and Rs 1200/- if belonging to SC/ST/PwD category. For more related details, candidates can visit the official site of HSEE.

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: The Hindu Edition: Chennai Page No: 2 Journalist: Pon Vasantha B.A Headline: Reservation policy not being followed properly at IIT-M URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/situation-in-iit-madras- grave-when-it-comes-to-sc-st-students-and-faculty-says-swaraj- vidwaan/article30114598.ece

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: The New Indian Express Edition: Chennai Page No: 1&4 Journalist: NA Headline: Chinese firm to invest ₹2800 er in TN

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: The Times of India Edition: Chennai Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: At IIT-M SCST faculty students harassed NCSC URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/sc/st-faculties-and-students- discriminated-at-iit-madras-ncsc-member/articleshow/72300474.cms

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: Deccan Chronicle Edition: Chennai Page No: 5 Journalist: NA Headline: Curbing global warming vital say experts

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard - Hindi Edition: Delhi/Mumbai Page No: 12 Journalist: NA Headline: Positive atmosphere in IIT Institutes for placements

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard Hindi Edition: Delhi Page No: 2 Journalist: NA Alumni: Mr. Ganesh Srinivasan Headline: Srinivasan became the CEO of tata power DDL

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: Dabang Duniya Edition: Mumbai Page No: 9 Journalist: NA Headline: Samsung to hire 1200 engineers for its R&D Centre

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: Hari Bhoomi Edition: Delhi Page No: 3 Journalist: NA Headline: Srinivasan will be the new CEO of Tata Power

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: The Economic Times Edition: Online Journalist: Bhavya Dilipkumar Alumni: Mr. Ganesh Srinivasan Headline: Tata Power Delhi Discom appoints Ganesh Srinivasan as the new CEO URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/energy/power/tata-power-delhi- discom-appoints-ganesh-srinivasan-as-the-new-ceo/articleshow/72295490.cms

Tata Power Delhi Discom appoints Ganesh Srinivasan as the new CEO

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: Orissa Post Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: Long road to global standard URL: https://www.orissapost.com/long-road-to-global-standard/

Long road to global standard

Utkal University, an institution with a distinguished history, celebrated its platinum jubilee recently. A suggestion that came up at the celebration was that the institution should be made into a world class university. However, the characteristics that distinguish a university as a world-class institution need to be understood first before it is achieved.

Universities are evaluated by means of their national and international rankings. Three such global rankings — Times Higher Education World University Rankings, The Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) ranking of Britain and Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) — are well known.

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings alone judges research-intensive universities across all their core missions: Teaching (the learning environment); research (volume, income and reputation); citations (research influence); international outlook (staff, students and research); and industry income (knowledge transfer). The first three carry 30 per cent weightage each, while the fourth and fifth carry 7.5 per cent and 2.5 per cent weightage respectively. Not a single Indian university has found a place in the top 300 in this ranking.

Six national institutions made it at least to the top 500, against five last year. In Odisha, IIT Bhubaneswar ranks at 10 nationally but drops to between 601 and 800 in world ranking; NIT Rourkela ranks 24 in national ranking and between 801 and 1,000 in world ranking. Both deemed university Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) and KIIT University ranked at 37 at the national level but were above rank 1001 in world ranking. Utkal University does not feature either in the global ranking or among the top 100 institutions of India.

The QS ranking of Britain, in turn, is based on academic peer review, faculty/student ratio, measurement of teaching commitment, citations per faculty member indicating research impact, employer reputation based on a survey on graduate employers, international student ratio (a measure of diversity of the student community), and international staff ratio (a measure of diversity of academic staff).

According to (QS) World University Rankings 2020, three Indian institutes — IIT-Bombay (152), IIT-Delhi (182) and IISc-Bangalore (184) — have found place among the top 200 universities. As far as Odisha is concerned, IIT Bhubaneswar ranks 20, followed by SOA (49) and KIIT (66-70). Utkal University, does not feature here either.

ARWU, or Shanghai Ranking, is based on quality of education (alumni as Nobel laureates and Fields medallists), quality of faculty (staff as Nobel laureates and Fields medallists), research output, and per-capita academic performance of an institution. According to Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS) 2019, Harvard University tops the list, followed by Stanford University. Not a single Indian university has ranked in the top 400. IISc-Bangalore is placed in the bracket 401-500, University of Delhi in 701-800, and JNU in (801-900).

Since September 2015, Ministry of Human Resource Development ranked institutions nationally based on the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). The NIRF is based on teaching learning and resources, research and professional practice, graduation outcome, outreach and inclusivity perception. The ranking methodology gives importance to perception about the institution.

IIT Madras topped the NIRF ranking followed by IISc-Bangalore and IIT-Delhi; from Odisha, NIT-Rourkela ranks 38 followed by SOA (41), IIT-Bhubaneswar (46) and KIIT (50). OUAT and Utkal University ranked between 101 and 150.

One major impediment to the progress of Utkal University is its status as a state university. If the university is accorded a central university status, it will have greater access to government funds. This will ensure development and research facilities.

Research is an important area that the university needs to renovate. To achieve the objective, first, both teaching and administrative vacancies should be filled. There should be fixed time at every stage of research. Library facilities should available 24×7 and free coaching for competitive examinations should be provided.

Students and teachers should be encouraged to critically analyse government policies, which will improve their aptitude for research. Politicians should refrain from interfering both in administration and elections at institutions. Improving student-teacher relations should receive top priority. Alumni, too, can contribute enormously towards the development of the university.

Date: 29th November 2019 Publication: Business Standard Edition: Online Journalist: Vinay Umarji Headline: International offers, packages to go up as IITs begin placements on Sunday URL: https://www.business-standard.com/article/education/international-offers- packages-to-go-up-as-iits-begin-placements-on-sunday-119112901098_1.html

International offers, packages to go up as IITs begin placements on Sunday Come Sunday, December 1, more international offers with salaries over Rs 1 crore are set to mark the beginning of final placement process at the top Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).

Moving away from an apprehension of slowdown bringing down job offers, IITs are now bullish of more offers and higher packages as they inch closer to Day One of the placement processes. Microsoft, which had emerged the top recruiter last year offering a $215,100 (Rs 1.5 crore roughly) package, is expected to make a similar or a slightly higher package to IIT students on Sunday.

What's more, Japanese companies which have been growing their presence at IIT campuses during placements are set to up the ante and even pip US firms in terms of offers, feel placement offices.

"Given the economic slowdown in India, we anticipated there might be a dip in offers. So we went on to invite a number of companies including international. But given the early trends, we are anticipating an action-packed Day One. We are looking forward to more international offers. This year we have got more Japanese companies compared to last year. It seems that given the number of offers anticipated, Japan would outperform the US," said G P Raja Sekhar, chairman, career development centre (CDC) at IIT Kharagpur and head - All IITs Placement Committee (AIPC).

At IIT Kharagpur (KGP), marquee international recruiters visiting on Day One include Microsoft and Uber from the US, among others. "Then we have recruiters from Japan, Taiwan, Singapore and Germany, among others. In all, we have 36 companies so far confirmed on Day One, which is higher than last year. As usual, we request the companies to address the inflation year on year in their packages," Raja Sekhar added.

Refusing to divulge salary package details, a student coordinator at one of the other older IITs said, "We do not publish salary data. But there are international companies visiting on Day One including Microsoft, Salesforce and Uber, among others. They are likely to make both domestic and international offers. In all, 100 companies visiting on Day One and 100 on Day Two. We give equal priority to companies from all sectors, irrespective of the package they offer."

Recruiters too are upbeat on hiring from IITs this year and several of them are looking to increase the numbers.

For instance, Samsung Electronics which recruits engineers from IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur, IIT Madras, IIT Mumbai, IIT Guwahati, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Roorkee and IIT Indore, among others, is looking to hire more than last year for its R&D centres.

"Samsung Electronics is committed to India and investing in local R&D. We are hiring and committed to hiring talented engineers from top colleges in the country. The usual intake has been 1000 engineers in a year. This year we are going to hire 1200 engineers. Of these, 340 will be hired via pre-placement offers (PPOs), of which 200 are from IIT," Samsung Wadhawan, Head, HR, Samsung India told Business Standard.

In line with its investments in emerging areas of research, engineers from IITs will be hired for working on future technologies like AI, Machine Learning, Image Processing, Cloud Computing. Delhi, Noida and Bangalore R&D centres, said Wadhawan, adding that currently, there are 9000 engineers working at Samsung's R&D centres at Delhi, Noida and Bengaluru.

Similarly, The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) which has been one of the largest recruiters in consulting at IITs is also looking to extend more offers when it visits campuses in Day One on Sunday, December 1.

"Associate hiring especially from IITs is very important for us. Our hiring numbers for associates has not been affected by the slowdown in the economy. We continue to increase our hiring numbers from IITs. We hire from most of the top IITs including Delhi, Bombay, Madras, Kharagpur, Kanpur and Guwahati. On December 1, we will be visiting IIT Delhi, Bombay and Madras. We have been one of the largest recruiters in consulting across all these three campuses. And our expectation is to continue the same," said Natarajan Sankar, managing director and partner, BCG India.

This is evident from the company's expectations to hire over 30 in total this year, as compared to approximately 20 hired in December 2017 for the batch joining in 2018 (hired in December 2017. "This is only IITs and not our overall associate hiring which includes other pools such as CAs," Sankar added.

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: Mangalorean.com Edition: Online Journalist: NA Headline: ICOLD Held At Alva’s Institute Of Engineering & Technology URL: https://www.mangalorean.com/icold-held-at-alvas-institute-of-engineering- technology/

ICOLD Held At Alva’s Institute Of Engineering & Technology

The field of engineering has been regarded as one of the flourishing field over the time. Engineers have to take a peek in all activities and pursuit beyond the boundary of their subjects “said, NITK, Surathkal, Director, Dr. Karanam Umamaheshwar Rao.

He was speaking after inaugurating three-day International conference on Laser Deposition: Nanostructure, hetero structure and 2D layers (iCOLD), organized by departments of Electronics & Communication and Mechanical Engineering of Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology, in association with IIT, Medras, supported by Science and Engineering Research Board( SERB), Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, and Laser Science Service Pvt. Ltd, at Shobhavana campus, Mijar.

He added said, ‘’there will be time when students enter into a profession arena which is divergent from what they studied, and such situations should be a proficient situation to be handled by them with their existing knowledge’’. He opined that “an effective planning is the need of the hour and any project formulated by an engineer should be cost efficient and fruitful.

Alva’s Education Foundation Management Trustee Vivek Alva who presided over the program told the students,” attending conferences, especially the international ones, gives you the chance to listen to different points of view and learn new ideas and trends in respective field. He added said, ‘’our foundation is putting constant effort in the interdisciplinary research areas, which has societal importance. The management is contributing substantially along with funds from various funding agencies’’.

In plenary session on ‘’Coated conductor processing with Excimer laser’’ Germany Coherent Laser System, Burkhard Fechner said, ‘’thin film generation via processing with advanced laser technologies is the enabling and often performance determining manufacturing step in many high-tech markets and applications. The success formula for any technology is bridging the gap between depositing, structuring or modifying a thin film and achieving industrial processing rate’’.

The three day seminar will witness more than 70 research papers being presented, 23 guest talks, 3 discussions and 4 main speeches from prominent researchers and personalities hailing from CNRS UMR, France, Kumamoto institution- Japan, IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Hyderabad IISR-Pune, CUSAT- Cochin, IISR- Thiruvananthapuram, DIAT- Pune, NIT CALICUT, NITK-Surathkal.

Organizing Committee Chair Dr Richard Pinto, Co- Chair and IIT Madras Physics Dept Professor Dr. M.S.Ramacahndra Rao, AIET Principal Dr Peter Fernandes were present among others.

Date: 30th November 2019 Publication: News 18 Hindi Edition: Online Journalist: NA बर से शु셂 होगी रड टरे शन की प्रडिया, 19 अप्रैल को होगीﴂHeadline: IIT Madras HSEE 2020: 11 डदस परीक्षा (Registration will begin on December 11, exam to be held on April 19) URL: https://hindi.news18.com/news/career/iit-madras-hsee-2020-registration-to-begins- on-dec-11-at-hsee-iitm-ac-in-2649298.html

बर से शु셂 होगी रड टरे शन की प्रडिया, 19 अप्रैल को होगी परीक्षाﴂIIT Madras HSEE 2020: 11 डदस (Registration will begin on December 11, exam to be held on April 19) 11 डद‍संबर 2019 से आईआईटी मद्रास एचएसईई 2020 (IIT Madras HSEE 2020) के डलये रडजथ‍टरेशन प्रडिया शु셂 हो रहा है. इंडियन इंथ‍टीट्यूट ऑफ मद्रास (Indian Institute of Madras), 19 अप्रैल 2020 को ह्यूमैडनटीज एंि सोशल साइंसेज एंटरेंस ए嵍‍जाडमनेशन 2020 को आयोडजत करेगा. इस परीक्षा के डल‍ये आवेदन करने वाले उ륍‍मीदवारों को HSEE की आडिकाररक वेबसाइट hsee.iitm.ac.in पर जाना होगा. आवेदन करने की आल्कखरी तारीख 22 जनवरी 2019 है.

IIT Madras HSEE 2020: मह配‍वपूणफ तारीखें आवेदन की प्रडिया कब से शु셂 होगी: 11 डद‍संबर 2019

Sponsored by MGID जाडनये इंडदरा जी के पी.एम. बनने से पहले वाले डदनों के बारे में

HSEE-2020 परीक्षा की तारीख: 19 अप्रैल 2020 ररज쥍‍ट कब जारी होगी: 15 मई 2020