
Steel City students talk to Axiom Space CEO
Taking part in the inspiring 'Space Talk', the students of Narbheram Hansraj English School (NHES) listened to Bhatia with rapt attention over how astronauts practised sustainability in space, like recycling water, reducing waste and innovating for limited resources.
These practices can help and guide people in protecting the earth's environment.
The event was aimed at inspiring students to understand the deep connection between space exploration and the conservation of our planet.
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Time of India
39 minutes ago
- Time of India
Indian space startup Agnikul builds world's largest single-piece 3D-printed Inconel rocket engine, granted a patent in US
Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos has achieved a significant milestone by building the world's largest single-piece 3D-printed Inconel rocket engine made from Inconel, a high-performance superalloy known for its strength and heat resistance. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now This breakthrough engine, about a meter long, is printed entirely as one integrated component without any welds, joints, or fasteners from fuel entry to plume exit. Such an innovation drastically reduces manufacturing complexity, production time, and potential failure points, positioning Agnikul at the forefront of additive manufacturing in rocketry. Further elevating their accomplishment, Agnikul has been granted a US patent for the design and manufacturing process of this single-piece rocket engine. Being granted a patent in the US means that Agnikul holds exclusive legal rights to their invention within one of the world's largest and most competitive markets, preventing others from making, using, or selling the patented technology without permission. This patent marks a rare achievement for an Indian-origin design, reflecting the startup's growing influence in global space technology and reinforcing India's position in the next-generation rocket manufacturing landscape. Agnikul revolutionising rocket manufacturing with single-piece 3D printing Agnikul Cosmos' engine represents a major leap in aerospace engineering, leveraging additive manufacturing technology to print a complete rocket engine as a single piece. This method eliminates the need for traditional assembly processes, which often involve complex welding and joining of multiple parts. The use of Inconel, a nickel-chromium-based superalloy, ensures that the engine can withstand the extreme temperatures and pressures encountered during rocket launches. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The scale and complexity of this engine surpass earlier models, allowing more efficient fluid flow and improved durability. This fully integrated manufacturing approach cuts down production time by over 60% and reduces weight, enhancing the overall performance and cost-effectiveness of rockets. Agnikul's innovation is a clear example of how advanced 3D printing is revolutionizing space technology, making rocket production faster, safer, and more scalable. Strategic impact and support from Indian space ecosystem The US patent granted to Agnikul Cosmos is a significant intellectual property victory that underscores the originality and technical sophistication of their design. The patent provides legal protection in a highly competitive global market historically dominated by established aerospace giants. This milestone strengthens India's position in the private space sector and signals growing confidence in indigenous technologies. Agnikul's progress is supported by collaborations with key Indian space institutions, including and INSPACe, as well as partnerships with industry leaders like Wipro 3D. Government backing through agencies like the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Technology Development Board (TDB) has been instrumental in fostering innovation. This collective effort is driving India's emergence as a leader in next-generation rocket propulsion and space exploration technologies.

Fashion Value Chain
2 hours ago
- Fashion Value Chain
Ahmedabad University Opens 24?-7 Student-Managed Tinkerers' Lab Equipped with Cutting-Edge Tools
Study in engineering and applied science is inherently hands-on. Learning concepts must go hand in hand with applying them, testing them, and building real solutions. The Tinkerers Lab at Ahmedabad University offers students access to cutting-edge tools and the agency to turn their ideas into working prototypes, whether for academic coursework, entrepreneurial ventures, or national competitions. For students ready to commercialise their innovations, the Lab also provides a direct pathway to VentureStudio, the Universitys incubation hub. Fully managed by students, the Lab offers access to cutting-edge tools and the agency to engage in hands-on making and prototyping Launched in collaboration with the Maker Bhavan Foundation, AIA Engineering Ltd., and Arvind Composites, the Lab is open 247 and fully student-managed. It features industrial-grade equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics workstations, machine tools, hand tools, and precision measurement instruments. A variety of materials and consumables are also available, enabling students to build working solutions around the clock. 'Tinkering is not just about tools; it is about mindset. This Lab gives you the freedom to try, fail, learn, and build again. It is how real engineering happens,' said Piyush Shah, founding member of Hitachi Hi-Rel and contributor to the Maker Bhavan Foundation. 'This Lab offers Ahmedabad University students another space for experiential learning, enabling them to contribute to India's innovation story.' The Tinkerers' Lab is housed within Ahmedabad University's School of Engineering and Applied Science. Students also have access to the Department of Science and Technology (DST)-supported PRAYAS Shala and a Fabrication Shop. This is further supported by strong industry linkages for live projects and internships, creating an environment where learning meets doing. Professor Sunil Kale, Dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science, Ahmedabad University, said, 'At Ahmedabad University, we are building an academic ecosystem that promotes active, hands-on, and experiential learning. The Tinkerers' Lab is an important part of this ecosystem, giving students and the community at large the opportunity to engage directly with materials, tools, and technologies as they learn to engineer solutions and think creatively across disciplines.' Damayanti Bhattacharya, CEO of Maker Bhavan Foundation, emphasised the importance of enabling such spaces across Indian campuses, 'The Tinkerers' Lab reflects our commitment to future-focused skilling and innovation. We want our students to be fearless in experimenting, deliberate in designing, and thoughtful in solving the world's pressing challenges. This space invites them to move from consuming knowledge to creating it.' Maker Bhavan Foundation works with Indian universities to build cutting-edge maker spaces and foster hands-on learning to develop engineers who solve real-world challenges. The Lab will also integrate with LEAP (Learning Engineering by Activity through Projects), a programme developed by the IIT Madras Incubation Cell. LEAP will introduce immersive student workshops, faculty training, and project-based learning modules to embed hands-on engineering deeply into the curriculum. AIA Engineering, one of Gujarat's leading engineering companies, has extended its support to the initiative as part of its long-standing commitment to technical education and capacity building. Arvind Composites, one of India's leading manufacturers of fibre reinforced composites, fabricated a uniquely designed mezzanine floor at the Lab using advanced composite materials, reducing structural weight by nearly one-third compared to conventional construction. The Lab will be open to all engineering students at Ahmedabad University starting this semester. Students can participate in LEAP boot camps, interdisciplinary build-a-thons, and ongoing mentoring programmes that focus on real-world application of engineering principles. About Ahmedabad University Ahmedabad University is a leading private, non-profit research university offering students a liberal education focused on interdisciplinary learning, practice orientation, and research thinking. The University has been Recognised by the Government of Gujarat as a Centre of Excellence. Accredited with A grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). Awarded Leadership and Management Team of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards Asia 2025. Awarded a 5-star rating, the highest awarded in the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) for 2021-22 and 2023-24, by the Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat (KCG), Department of Education, Government of Gujarat. Awarded the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) International Award for Excellence 2024 for our University Centre. Awarded a Platinum Rating by the Indian Green Building Council for sustainability and green practices. Recognised by the UGC under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, becoming one of the very few private research universities to have been awarded this recognition for select research universities. Recognised as a Highly Commended University for Teaching and Learning Strategy of the Year in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia 2023. Awarded the AACSB's Innovations That Inspire Award 2023 for its Foundation Programme. Awarded Gold Rating by the Indian Green Building Council for achieving the Green Building Standards at our University Centre. â The University, established in 2009, is rooted in the vision of one of India's finest educational foundations, the Ahmedabad Education Society, which was founded in 1935 by nationalist leaders. Programmes at the University range from bachelors to doctoral levels in humanities and social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and management through its 13 Schools and Centres: Amrut Mody School of Management | Bagchi School of Public Health | School of Arts and Sciences | School of Engineering and Applied Science | Ahmedabad Design Lab | Centre for Heritage Management | Centre for Inter-Asian Research | Centre for Learning Futures | Global Centre for Environment and Energy | International Centre for Space and Cosmology | Sahyog: Centre for Promoting Health | The Climate Institute | VentureStudio An urban university, Ahmedabad promotes independent-mindedness and diversity across all dimensions of its activity and helps students mature into critical thinkers who are analytically equipped, practically oriented, and contextually aware global citizens. The University provides a contemporary educational framework that brings liberal arts, sciences, and the professions to engage together in creating new knowledge for addressing complex challenges of the society and in offering majors that merge the boundaries of disciplines to prepare students for the new economy.


Hans India
3 hours ago
- Hans India
Checkmating limits: How chess shapes young minds
Chess, often perceived merely as a recreational activity, has emerged as a powerful tool in enhancing cognitive and academic development among schoolchildren. International research emphasizes its efficacy in fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic performance. According to International Chess Federation more than 25 million kids worldwide are involved in scholastic chess. This article delves into the varied benefits of chess in education, explores how schools can implement chess programs, and highlights the rise of young Indian chess prodigies who exemplify the game's impact. The cognitive and academic benefits of chess Numerous studies have demonstrated that chess training significantly boosts students' cognitive abilities and academic achievements. A meta-analysis encompassing 24 studies revealed that chess training enhances primary and middle school students' performance in mathematics and reading. Additionally, research indicates that chess training improves working memory, processing speed, and meta-cognitive skills, all of which are crucial for academic success. In India, a study focusing on rural middle school children found that chess training led to significant improvements in academic performance, particularly in subjects requiring logical reasoning and concentration. These findings suggest that chess can serve as an effective educational tool, especially in regions with limited access to advanced learning resources. Implementing chess programs in schools To harness the educational benefits of chess, schools can adopt several strategies: 1. Curriculum Integration: Incorporate chess into the regular curriculum, dedicating specific periods each week to chess coaching. 2. fter-School Clubs: Establish chess clubs that meet after school hours, providing students with a platform to practice and compete. 3. Teacher Training: Train sports teachers to teach chess by offering them special courses and workshops. 4. Partnerships with Chess Organizations: Collaborate with established chess institutions to organize tournaments, workshops, and exhibitions. Implementing these initiatives can create a chess-friendly environment that nurtures students' intellectual growth and fosters a culture of strategic thinking. The rise of young Indian chess prodigies India has witnessed a surge in young chess talents who have made significant strides on the international stage. These prodigies often begin their chess journey at an early age, benefiting from structured training programs and a supportive ecosystem. • R. Praggnanandhaa: Achieved the title of Grandmaster at the age of 14, becoming the youngest Indian to do so. He has since defeated world-renowned players, showcasing his exceptional talent and preparation from a young age. • Gukesh Dommaraju: At 18, Gukesh became the youngest chess player to win the World Chess Championship. He began his training at the age of seven, demonstrating the long-term commitment required to reach the pinnacle of chess.A current World Champion Gukesh recently, defeated Magnus Carlsen in a classical chess game for the first time in the Norway Chess 2025 tournament. • Divya Deshmukh: A rising star in women's chess, Divya clinched the World Junior Championship title and has been instrumental in India's success at international tournaments. Her journey began in her early teens, reflecting the impact of early and consistent training . These examples highlight the importance of early exposure and dedicated training in achieving excellence in chess. Conclusion Integrating chess into school programs offers more than just a recreational activity; it serves as a catalyst for cognitive development and academic excellence. By adopting structured chess initiatives, schools can prepare students with valuable skills that extend beyond the classroom. The success of young Indian chess prodigies highlights the potential of chess as an educational tool. As the global chess community continues to grow, fostering chess programs in schools can contribute to the development of future leaders and thinkers.