Latest news with #CSIR-IICT
The Hindu
13-05-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
Surya Prakash Singh is first researcher from CSIR-IICT to receive INSA Distinguished Lecture Fellowship
CSIR–Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad, scientist Surya Prakash Singh has been awarded the prestigious INSA Distinguished Lecture Fellowship for the year 2025 by the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) on Tuesday. (May 13, 2025). Dr. Singh is the first researcher from CSIR-IICT and the city of Hyderabad to receive this distinguished honour, making it a landmark moment for the institute and the region. He leads a research group focused on photosensitizers to boost the efficiency of next-generation solar technologies like dye-sensitised, organic, and perovskite solar cells. Another key achievement has been the development of neutral, non-toxic, stable, and highly fluorescent 'Bodipy' dyes for mitochondrial imaging in biological systems, as per a press release.
New Indian Express
12-05-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma hails Centre's efforts to make science more accessible
HYDERABAD: Governor Jishnu Dev Varma on Sunday said, 'This is the age of research, of technology, of finding ways to make the world a better place.' He was speaking at the National Technology Day celebrations and ASTC Annual Convention held at CSIR-IICT. Addressing the gathering, the governor lauded the Union government's efforts to make science and research more accessible and expressed hope that CSIR institutions would continue to undertake transformative work for the benefit of society. In his welcome address, CSIR-IICT director Dr D Srinivasa Reddy underscored the role of scientific innovation in addressing global challenges. He highlighted the institute's contributions, including the development of compostable plastics, affordable sanitary pads and AGR technology for converting organic waste into biogas. Delivering the ASTC Foundation Lecture on 'Gut Microbiome – The Science & Application', AIG Hospitals chairman Dr D Nageshwar Reddy discussed the microbiome's critical role in modern medicine, touching on its impact on immunity, metabolism, mental health and neurological disorders. He stressed that manipulating the gut microbiome could help manage a wide range of conditions.
United News of India
12-05-2025
- Science
- United News of India
CSIR-IICT celebrates National Technology Day 2025 with ASTC annual convention
Hyderabad, May 11 (UNI) The CSIR–Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), in collaboration with the Academy for Science, Technology and Communication (ASTC) and the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI), Hyderabad Chapter, celebrated National Technology Day 2025 along with the ASTC Annual Convention at the CSIR-IICT campus on Sunday. Governor of Telangana, Jishnu Dev Varma, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address, he stated, 'This is the age of research, of technology, of finding ways to make the world a better place.' He also lauded the efforts of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government in democratizing access to science and research, expressing hope that CSIR institutions will continue to deliver transformative contributions to society. Earlier, in his welcome address, Dr D Srinivasa Reddy, Director of CSIR-IICT, highlighted the importance of scientific innovation in tackling global challenges. He said, 'The theme this year is very meaningful. It reminds us that science and technology must help solve the problems we face today.' He also showcased CSIR-IICT's key contributions, including compostable plastics, affordable sanitary pads, and AGR technology that converts organic waste into biogas. Dr Vinay Kumar Nandicoori, Director of CSIR–Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), emphasised the central role of technology in CSIR's mission. He discussed CCMB's pioneering work in rare disease diagnostics, wildlife forensics, DNA fingerprinting, and the development of a low-cost screening test for sickle cell anaemia priced under Rs 100. Dr Prakash Kumar, Director of CSIR–National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), noted that "the courage to think differently creates impact." He outlined NGRI's initiatives to build an earthquake-resilient society through mega-projects assessing and mitigating seismic hazards in the Himalayas, Ganga Plains, and other vulnerable areas. Delivering the ASTC Foundation Lecture on 'Gut Microbiome – The Science & Application,' Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr D Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman of AIG Hospitals, underlined the critical role of the gut microbiome in modern medicine. He explained its profound influence on immunity, metabolism, mental health, and its potential in managing a wide range of disorders. In the Presidential Address, Dr Ch Mohan Rao, Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Council–ASTC and NASI Hyderabad Chapter, gave an overview of the inception of National Science Day and highlighted the ongoing activities of NASI. The event also featured the release of the latest issue of ASTC Communications, the felicitation of contributing authors, and the presentation of ASTC Awards in categories including Science Popularization, Excellence in Science and Technology, and Lifetime Achievement. Dr D Srinivasa Reddy and Dr S Venkata Mohan, Director of NEERI and former Chief Scientist at CSIR-IICT, were honoured with the Excellence in Science and Technology Award. UNI VV SS
Hans India
23-04-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Time to open the gates: Union Minister calls for science-industry synergy
Hyderabad: Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh said that the time has come for Indian Science to break silos and integrate with stakeholders including industry, investors, and the public. During the Startup Conclave, jointly organised by CSIR-IICT, CSIR-CCMB, and CSIR-NGRI, Dr Jitendra Singh emphasised that India is currently experiencing a significant moment in science and innovation. Speaking to a diverse audience of scientists, entrepreneurs, students, and policymakers, he praised the collaborative effort of the three Hyderabad-based CSIR labs, highlighting that this 'integrated scene of science and governance under one roof' aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for collaborative and inclusive innovation. Dr Singh made a compelling case for changing the outdated perception of government labs as 'ghost-haunted places where frogs are dissected.' He recounted how misinformation and a lack of public engagement had led villagers to misunderstand the work conducted at CSIR labs. He stated, 'Science should not be confined behind gates. If your focus is on agriculture, invite the farmers in. Let them see what you're doing.' He stressed the importance of involving industry early and deeply in research and innovation, referencing the success of CSIR's Aroma Mission, which has enabled over 3,000 youth—many of whom are non-graduates—to become successful agri-entrepreneurs with minimum annual earnings of Rs 60 lakh. 'That's real transformation—a blend of technology, livelihood, and dignity,' he asserted. Reflecting on the rapid growth of India's biotechnology sector, Dr. Singh noted that in 2014, there were only 50 biotech startups, compared to over 10,000 today. 'It's not just about numbers. We've transitioned from a valuation of $10 billion to nearly $170 billion in biotech. This isn't just growth; it's a revolution,' he stated, highlighting government initiatives such as Bio-E3 and the National Quantum Mission. Dr Singh expressed concern over the internal compartmentalisation within CSIR and even within his own Ministry. To address this, he has begun holding monthly joint meetings involving all science departments, including Atomic Energy, Space, and Biotechnology, to ensure that overlapping initiatives are coordinated rather than duplicated. 'How can we compete globally if we don't even know what our neighboring lab is doing?' he questioned. He also announced plans to open up the nuclear sector, noting that a new approach has replaced the previous secrecy surrounding scientific endeavours. 'When Google can peek into our lives, what's the point of denying access to potential collaborators in the name of confidentiality?' he asked. Dr Singh advocated for realistic, demand-driven innovation, urging, 'Let the industry do the mapping. Let them invest from day one. If they invest Rs 20, they'll ensure your startup doesn't fail.' He encouraged researchers to view industry not just as customers but as co-investors. In a candid moment, he acknowledged that while the government has significantly increased funding—CSIR and DSIR budgets have risen over 230 per cent since 2014—true sustainability depends on self-sufficiency and collaboration between the public and private sectors. 'You can start a startup, but sustaining it is the challenge. Social and economic security must match ambition,' he remarked. Dr Singh highlighted that Hyderabad, with its unique combination of scientific heritage and technological prowess, is ideally positioned to lead India's science-led development agenda. 'This is not just about Hyderabad or CSIR; it's about India stepping out of the shadows and taking charge of the global innovation narrative,' he declared. The event took place at a pivotal moment when India's Global Innovation Index has surged from 81 to 39 in less than a decade, marking a significant step in the government's mission to democratise science, empower youth, and establish India as a global innovation leader.
The Hindu
22-04-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
CSIR-NGRI seeks industry collaboration for three major science projects
CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) has unveiled three major science projects which could help in development of renewable energy resources in the country, informed director Prakash Kumar on Tuesday. Addressing the scientific community and industry at the launch of the two-day startup conclave being held at the CSIR-IICT campus, the director disclosed that the institute was working on geo-thermal energy systems across the country as a renewable resource, hazard mapping the Himalayas and geophysical study of the Ladakh region. These research initiatives offer scope for collaborative opportunities between the industry and academia, he said. About 70 start-ups are participating in the two-day conclave with the theme — catalysing innovation, connecting ecosystems. Three Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) were also signed during the meeting. First is a pact between Atal Incubation Centre (AIC-CCMB) and CAiRL to support innovative deep-science based interventions with emerging AI tools and technologies to bridge collaborations between research institutes, incubators, innovators and start-ups. This engagement will accelerate the inclusiveness of AI and relevant advanced platforms into the start-up ecosystem. Second is again between AIC -CCMB and Bioscience Alliance (BSA), a California based non-profit organization formed for the purpose of facilitating the development of the life science and biotech industry there. Along with the BSA, AIC-CCMB is partnered with The County of Ventura 2nd District & Economic Development Collaborative Ventura County, Ventura County California to create a pipeline of start-ups for soft launching in both the territories. CSIR-NGRI and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited signed another pact for deep bore hole seismic studies at Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana site of NPCIL. CSIR-IICT had a MoU signed for establishment of CBG plant based on AGR (Anaerobic Gas Lift Technology) with ARK BioEnergy Private Limited.
