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Time of India
08-08-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Vaccines, misuse of antibiotics dominate interaction of students with scientists
1 2 3 Bhubaneswar: Curious students from city schools, who visited the Indian Council of Medical Research-Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR-RMRC) here on Friday, asked a volley of questions to scientists about viruses, bacteria, vaccines and infections. A student from a city-based private school asked a senior scientist of ICMR about the process of making vaccines for human beings. The scientist explained the lengthy process and told the student about ICMR's contribution in preparing Covaxin . Another student asked the ICMR researchers about the misuse of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance. Others inquired about malaria and dengue during the tour of laboratories at ICMR-RMRC. Scientists were amazed by the number of questions from school students. Around 400 students took part in the ICMR-SHINE Initiative-2025 hosted by ICMR-RMRC on Friday. It was part of the national programme 'SHINE' (Science and Health Innovation for the Nextgen Explorers) to ignite scientific curiosity and inspire school students to explore careers in science and health research. Apart from participating in the guided tours of laboratories at the ICMR-RMRC, students witnessed exhibitions on the research activities of the centre and took part in a quiz competition where they explored live research settings and learned about advancements in biomedical and health research. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Brazil: Kitchen Remodeling Trends in 2025 May Surprise You Kitchen Remodeling | Search ads Search Now Undo "The students also interacted with all the scientists to gain insight into their research activities and gain a deeper understanding of science beyond textbooks, while scientists benefit from engaging with the next generation and potentially receiving feedback or new perspectives," said Sanghamitra Pati, additional director general of ICMR and director of ICMR-RMRC. She said the programme concluded with certificate distribution and a lively selfie session with ICMR's mascot, Dr Curio, creating a memorable and inspiring experience for the young participants. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Raksha Bandhan wishes , messages and quotes !
Time of India
08-08-2025
- Health
- Time of India
500 students get glimpse of health research
Dibrugarh: Five hundred students from grades 9-12 got an unprecedented glimpse into the world of cutting-edge health research on Friday as ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre North East, Dibrugarh and Model Rural Health Research Unit (MRHRU) Tripura jointly launched the ICMR-SHINE initiative, a nationwide student outreach programme designed to inspire the next generation of health researchers, reports Rajib Dutta. The initiative brought together students from eight schools across Dibrugarh, Assam and Khumlwng, Tripura, offering them hands-on exposure to biomedical research through interactive laboratory tours, research exhibitions, and live demonstrations of ongoing scientific projects. "We want you to see that science isn't confined to textbooks. It's alive in our labs, in our fieldwork, and in the way we respond to the public health needs of our country," said Dr Suman Kanungo, director of ICMR-RMRCNE. addressing the enthusiastic gathering of young Kanungo emphasised the crucial role of cultivating a scientific mindset and innovation among youth, highlighting how their involvement will be instrumental in shaping India's future as the nation progresses towards Viksit Bharat by 2047. The comprehensive programme offered students a rare behind-the-scenes look at medical research through guided laboratory tours, research exhibitions, poster sessions, video presentations, science quizzes, and model demonstrations. Students had the opportunity to observe ongoing scientific work firsthand and interact directly with ICMR scientists, gaining valuable insights into their research methodologies and discoveries. To enhance the learning experience, organisers introduced "Dr Curio," a specially designed mascot that served as a friendly guide throughout the day. The mascot's presence helped create an engaging atmosphere, making complex scientific concepts more accessible and encouraging students to develop a meaningful connection with science. A highlight of the event was the screening of four specially curated short films showcasing ICMR's landmark achievements. Students learned about the development of Covaxin, India's indigenous COVID-19 vaccine, the innovative iDRONE initiative for healthcare delivery in remote areas, India's ambitious tuberculosis elimination efforts, and Vishanu Yudh Abhyas, a nationwide mock drill designed to assess the country's pandemic preparedness capabilities. The programme also featured presentations on ICMR-RMRCNE's research activities and a demonstration of the MyHeart mobile application, illustrating how technology is being leveraged to improve healthcare outcomes in the region. The In'eract've activities provided students with hands-on learning experiences that went far beyond traditional classroom education. By observing real laboratory work and engaging with active researchers, participants gained a deeper understanding of how scientific inquiry translates into practical solutions for public health challenges. The SHINE Initiative represents a significant step in ICMR's broader mission to nurture scientific curiosity among young minds while raising awareness about the critical role of research in enhancing public health outcomes across the Northeast region. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Raksha Bandhan wishes , messages and quotes !
Time of India
08-08-2025
- Health
- Time of India
ICMR Hosts Nationwide Student Outreach Program to Promote Science and Health Research
New Delhi: The Indian Council of Medical Research ( ICMR ) and the Department of Health Research (DHR) have conducted S.H.I.N.E. (Science, Health and Innovation for Nextgen Explorers), a nationwide open day for school students, on August 7–8, 2025. The initiative is stated to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for students to 'spend one day as a scientist.' It is indicated that the event drew 13,150 students from grades 9–12, representing over 300 schools across 39 districts in 16 states and union territories. Hosted at ICMR institutes and Model Rural Health Research Units, the program introduced students to biomedical and health research while highlighting ICMR's contributions to public health . Activities included guided laboratory tours, research exhibitions, poster walks, video presentations, and live demonstrations. Students interacted with scientists to learn about their work and career paths, with a mascot named Dr. Curio serving as a guide. Four short films showcased ICMR's initiatives, including the development of Covaxin, the iDRONE project for healthcare delivery, tuberculosis elimination efforts, and Vishanu Yudh Abhyas, a nationwide mock drill for pandemic preparedness. The event also coincided with the 104th birth anniversary of Dr. Vulimiri Ramalingaswami, former Director General of ICMR, whose legacy in medical research was acknowledged during the program. ICMR stated that S.H.I.N.E. aims to inspire scientific curiosity among young learners and encourage careers in science and public health, supporting India's vision for 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, DHR & Director General, ICMR stated, 'this is a unique initiative of ICMR to ignite scientific curiosity, foster innovation and inspire the next generation of health researchers.' He emphasized the importance of scientific temper, innovation, and youth engagement in shaping the future of Indian research and healthcare. 'Today is not just a visit, it's an invitation to step into the shoes of a scientist,' Dr Bahl said while addressing the students. 'We want you to observe, question, and experience firsthand the spirit of scientific inquiry. Engage with our scientists, explore the labs, and witness the strides India has made in medical and health research. This is how we shape a Viksit Bharat — through curiosity, evidence, and ambition,' he added.
The Hindu
07-07-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
KU celebrates 23rd convocation; Governor stresses five skills for success
Governor Jishnu Dev Varma has urged graduates to develop five essential skills — critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, curiosity and communication — to be successful in life and career. He also stressed the need to take risks and stay abreast of trends to serve the world. Delivering the convocation speech at the 23rd convocation of Kakatiya University (KU), the Governor, who is the Chancellor of the varsity, said, 'Kakatiya University is aligning its goals with the national mission of implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The introduction of courses such as AI & ML, cybersecurity, data science, and nutrition sciences demonstrates this forward-looking approach.' Referring to the academic performance of KU, the Governor highlighted that the College of Pharmaceutical Sciences has earned ntheational rank of 84, and the university has secured third place in UI Green Metrics, standing first in Telangana. Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) director D. Srinivasa Reddy said, 'For many students from rural backgrounds, English may seem like a barrier that is hard to cross. But I have learned over time that language is only a tool. It is your ideas, your thinking, and effort that truly matter.' He shared his personal struggles as a student from a remote village in Nalgonda district, recalling that he even worked as a paperboy for a brief period in Hyderabad. Reddy emphasised that background is not a boundary for anyone who wants to excel. Highlighting the contributions of IICT in transforming Hyderabad into a pharmaceutical hub, mentioned that the institute had helped develop an adjuvant for Covaxin, India's indigenous COVID-19 vaccine. KU Vice-Chancellor K. Pratap Reddy stated that the university has been placed in the 151-200 band in NIRF rankings. 'Over the last five years, our faculty members have published more than 3,000 research papers, and the university has secured over 50 patents,' he added. A total of 564 gold medals and 387 Ph.D.s were awarded to graduates across various faculties at the ceremony. KU Registrar V. Ramchandram, Controller of Examinations Katla Rajender, deans, senate members, former faculty members, and other guests were present.
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Business Standard
05-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Piyush Goyal seeks apology from CM Siddaramaiah over remarks on vaccine
Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday demanded that Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah apologise to the country's scientists and pharmaceutical sector for his recent remarks linking COVID-19 vaccines to a spate of heart attack deaths in the state and questioned whether he was "running the agenda of foreign forces". Accusing the Chief Minister of "insulting" India's scientists, startups, and its pharmaceutical strength, Goyal said his comments undermine the people who worked tirelessly during the pandemic. According to Goyal, it is "unfortunate" that such remarks are coming from the CM of a country that is known as the 'pharmacy of the world', a country where our startups are expanding and forming an ecosystem, a country where our vaccines were exported on a large scale to other nations. This was possible only because our pharmaceutical companies had the strength and innovation to produce vaccines at a cost of less than Rs 100, he told reporters here. Lauding the pharmaceutical companies, he said they made India proud. "We didn't just roll out one vaccine, but two. The country was able to provide free vaccines to our entire population... He insulted our scientists and pharmaceutical companies," he claimed. "Is he running the agenda of foreign forces that want to harm India's pharmaceutical sector, disturbed by India's financial growth? Whether it is the Congress party, the CM, or all their partners, do they want to strengthen the hands of foreign forces by demeaning India? He should answer and apologise to our scientists and pharmaceutical companies," he further alleged. Earlier, addressing the IIT Madras Alumni Association's Sangam 2025 event here, he added that Siddaramaiah does not take pride in India's success or its startups and scientists. Instead, he is "ashamed of India and its startups achieving such remarkable success." He credited Bharat Biotech for developing India's first indigenous COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin, and Oxford-AstraZeneca for granting rights to produce Covishield at Pune-based Serum Institute of India. "We were not only able to provide 2.5 billion vaccines free of charge to all our citizens, but also supplied vaccines to over 100 nations, particularly less developed or developing countries that otherwise had no protection against this disease," he said. Goyal pointed out that even today, India is being thanked for the medicines and vaccines it provided to other nations during the pandemic. "They (Congress) want to run down India's success stories, and it pains us when we hear this kind of negativity coming from certain sections of society," he alleged. Neither the Congress nor Siddaramaiah has responded to Goyal's claims so far.
