Latest news with #CSIR-NationalInstituteforInterdisciplinaryScienceandTechnology
The Hindu
a day ago
- Science
- The Hindu
Proposed extension centre of CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology to focus on core areas of research and product development
A satellite centre planned by the CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) at the Bio 360 Life Sciences Park here at Thonnakkal will focus on core areas of research and product development, including solar-driven hydrogen production from wastewater. A State Cabinet meeting on Thursday (June 5) gave the nod for establishing the 'Extension Centre for Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship.' The Cabinet approval also included allocation of 10 acres of land on a 90-year lease at the Bio 360 Life Sciences Park. Collaborative hub 'The proposed CSIR-NIIST innovation centre will serve as a collaborative hub fostering interdisciplinary research, product development, and entrepreneurship,' NIIST officials said. Major initiatives planned under it include a pilot plant for the solar-driven production of hydrogen from wastewater, an AYUSH manufacturing and standardisation hub, a production line for biopolymer and bio-based products, a bio-enabler bio manufacturing unit and a regional resource development centre. It will also be the first satellite centre of NIIST, a laboratory under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). NIIST described the decision to establish the centre as a strategic move aligned with its mission to drive sustainable, inclusive innovation and reinforce Kerala's position as a hub for science-driven entrepreneurship. The Bio 360 Life Sciences Park is a flagship initiative of the State government's Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC).
Hans India
14-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Steadfastly follow Atmanirbhar Bharat for strategic independence: NITI Aayog's VK Saraswat
Thiruvananthapuram: NITI Aayog member V. K. Saraswat on Wednesday underscored the imperative of achieving strategic independence in critical sectors to safeguard national sovereignty and drive technological leadership and innovation-led growth. He defined Atmanirbhar Bharat as the pursuit of independence from external controls. "We will achieve strategic autonomy, resilient supply chains, domestic innovation capacity, and technological sovereignty if we steadfastly follow the path of Atmanirbharta," said Saraswat. He said this while speaking at the CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), here, which was celebrating National Technology Day with a special event on IP Monetisation and Technology Transfer in connection with the institute's Golden Jubilee celebrations. He lauded the Indian scientific community's pivotal role in advancing self-reliance, citing its recent contributions to Operation Sindoor as a testament to India's growing capabilities. "Alongside the armed forces, the nation's scientists have been instrumental in bringing global recognition and pride to India. There is a need to shift India's Intellectual Property landscape from 'portfolio to performance'," said Saraswat. Director of CSIR-NIIST, Anandharamakrishnan, highlighted the importance of the technologies developed by CSIR-NIIST, emphasising their relevance in addressing pressing societal and industrial needs, including applications in strategic sectors. "Ten game-changing technologies for nation building from CSIR-NIIST were also presented, with a commitment to deliver by 2027. CSIR-NIIST remains dedicated to creating solutions that matter - scientifically strong, industrially relevant, and socially impactful," said the director. At the event, there was the formal transfer of five technologies developed by CSIR-NIIST. These technologies were handed over by Anandharamakrishnan as each transfer represented a step toward real-world application and social impact. Technologies related to fruit roll-ups, jackfruit-based products, millet-based instant mixes, natural syrups, and banana grits were transferred to H. Dineshan, IAS, Executive Director of the Kudumbashree State Mission, Kerala. Another transfer that was effected was the engineered microbiome technology, JAIVAM, designed for rapid aerobic composting of organic waste. This conclave reflected the institute's legacy of innovation and its resolve to deliver science that transforms lives.
The Hindu
25-04-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Pilot production plant for fortified rice kernels inaugurated at CSIR-NIIST in Thiruvananthapuram
The CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) here has established a pilot plant for fortified rice kernels (FRK) with the aim of addressing the nutritional needs of vulnerable population groups. According to NIIST scientists, the FRK process involves blending micronutrients with rice flour and extruding the mix into rice-shaped kernels. These are virtually indistinguishable from natural rice. Using in-house technology, the plant enables the continuous production of FRK enriched with essential micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. NIIST described the establishment of the facility as a 'major step towards combating hidden hunger and enhancing nutritional security.' Krishna M. Ella, chairperson, Bharat Biotech International, and chairperson, Research Council, CSIR-NIIST, inaugurated the plant on Friday. 30 to 50 kg per hour The facility has drying and cooling conveyors for removing moisture effectively, which enables immediate use and distribution of the product. The plant is capable of producing 30 to 50 kg of FRK per hour. The FRK can be seamlessly blended with polished rice for large-scale public distribution, NIIST said. The plant has been established with the aim of addressing the nutritional requirements of vulnerable population groups, especially children and pregnant women, NIIST said. C. Anandharamakrishnan, Director of CSIR-NIIST, said the pilot plant will serve not only as a production unit, but also as a training and innovation hub for start-ups, food safety professionals, public health experts, and students. 'Holds promise' 'It exemplifies our commitment to developing technologies that are socially impactful and accessible,' Dr. Anandharamakrishnan said. Dr. Ella said the facility holds promise for improving public health outcomes across the country, particularly in underserved regions. The FRK plant will be accessible for research, development, product testing, training and promoting innovation and entrepreneurial ventures in the area of rice fortification, NIIST said.
The Hindu
23-04-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
CSIR-NIIST to organise conclave on intellectual property monetisation and technology transfer in May
As part of its golden jubilee celebrations, the CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) is organising 'Conclave on Intellectual Property (IP) Monetisation and Technology Transfer' on May 14. V.K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, will inaugurate the conclave. C. Anandharamakrishnan, Director, CSIR-NIIST, will preside. The conclave is aimed at empowering research organisations and industries to strategically protect IP, assess its commercial potential, and translate IP assets and know-how into marketable products. The event will also explore emerging trends in IP monetisation, including the creation of IP-based Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV), fundraising through share sales, and equity investments of IP in startups. For registration, visit the CSIR-NIIST website or contact R.S. Praveen Raj, senior principal scientist and convenor of the conclave, at 9995632522.
