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The Hindu
29-05-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
RRI team find new code for detecting hidden properties of exotic materials
A team from the Raman Research Institute (RRI) found a new code for detecting hidden properties of exotic materials. According to the Department of Science and Technology, scientists have found a new way of spotting a property of topological space called 'topological invariant' in quantum materials, which remains unchanged under continuous deformations or transformations. Topological materials are at the forefront of next-gen technology — quantum computing, fault-tolerant electronics, and energy-efficient systems. 'But detecting their exotic properties has always been tricky. Topological invariance implies that if you can deform one shape into another without cutting or gluing, any topological invariant will be the same for both shapes,' department said. It added that in certain materials like topological insulators and superconductors, strange things happen. 'Electrons behave differently depending on how the material is 'shaped' at the quantum level. These shapes are defined not by their appearance, but by something deeper—topological invariants, such as winding numbers (in 1D systems) and Chern numbers (in 2D systems). These numbers are like hidden codes that determine how particles move through a material,' it added. Spectral function The RRI team found a new way to detect this hidden code using a property called the spectral function. Professor Dibyendu Roy and PhD researcher Kiran Babasaheb Estake have carried this out by analyzing the momentum-space spectral function (SPSF). Traditionally, scientists used techniques like ARPES (Angle-Resolved Photoemission Spectroscopy) to study electron behaviour. The new research published in Physical Review B. showed that the same spectral function holds clues to the material's hidden topology—a revolutionary way to see the structure without directly observing it. 'The spectral function has been used for many years as an experimental tool to probe the physical quantities such as density of states and the dispersion relation of electrons in a system through ARPES. It was not seen as a tool to probe topology or topological aspects of an electronic system.' said Kiran Babasaheb Estake, PhD student in theoretical Physics at RRI and the lead author. Universal tool The study potentially offers a universal tool to explore and classify topological materials, that could pave the way for new discoveries in condensed matter physics that could be useful for quantum computers, next generation electronics, and facilitate energy-efficiency.
The Hindu
20-05-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
Jayant Narlikar: The Indian astrophysicist and sci-fi writer who challenged ‘Big Bang'
Dr. Jayant Narlikar, one of India's most distinguished astrophysicists who combined profound theoretical insight into cosmology with a lifelong commitment to science communication, passed away at his residence in Pune on Tuesday (May 20. 2025). He was 86. Describing what made Dr. Narlikar one of the 'greats', Dr. Tarun Souradeep, Director of the Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bengaluru, told The Hindu that it was his 'sense of justice and equality,' and his 'unwavering commitment' to popularising science and combating 'non-science-based superstition and astrology,' that set him apart. As a gifted institution-builder, Dr. Narlikar played a pioneering role in establishing the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune, where he served as Founder-Director. Under his stewardship, IUCAA emerged as a globally recognised centre for theoretical physics, cosmology, and astrophysics. 'He spawned a number of leading scientists who set new directions and schools: Thanu Padmanabhan (Cosmology, Gravitation and Quantum Gravity); Sanjeev Dhurandhar (Gravitational Waves); Ajit Kembhavi (Data-driven observational astronomy), to name a few,' Dr. Souradeep, who completed his doctoral research under Dr. Narlikar's guidance, said. A prolific writer and science populariser, Dr. Narlikar once recalled in a blog post 'playing table tennis with Stephen Hawking (prior to his muscular atrophy)' when they were both students at the University of Cambridge. Dr. Narlikar first gained international recognition when, alongside the British astronomer Sir Fred Hoyle, he proposed the 'steady state' model of the universe - a theory positing a timeless cosmos in which matter is continuously created. This stood in contrast to the dominant 'Big Bang' model, a term ironically coined by Hoyle to disparage it, which posits that the universe began at a single point in time. Although subsequent observational evidence has since firmly supported the Big Bang theory, Dr. Narlikar remained a persistent and vocal critic of it, adapting and refining the steady state view throughout his career. 'He wore his remarkable learning in various disciplines very lightly and he combined to an unusual degree formidable scholarship with humility. He was well and truly a most luminous star of Indian science, who reflected the noblest of our civilisational traditions,' Congress communications in-charge and Rajya Sabha MP Jairam Ramesh tweeted. He also shared an excerpt from the 1964 edition of Yojana - a Planning Commission publication - which debated whether India should lure the young Narlikar back from Cambridge. In a rare feat, Dr. Narlikar was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1965, even before formally beginning his career in India at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai. He later received the Padma Vibhushan in 2004. Among his many accolades were the UNESCO Kalinga Prize for the popularisation of science in 1996 and the prestigious Prix Jules Janssen from the French Astronomical Society in 2004. Dr. Narlikar was also widely admired for his literary contributions. His science-fiction story Dhoomaketu (The Comet) was adapted into a film, while his autobiography Chaar Nagarantale Maze Vishwa (My Tale of Four Cities) was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Prize. His writing - marked by clarity, an avoidance of jargon, and philosophical depth - explored themes ranging from alien encounters to the moral quandaries arising from rapid technological progress. He was frequently featured in science programmes on television in the 1990s and credited Carl Sagan's outreach work, as well as the fiction of Sir Hoyle, Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, and Ray Bradbury, as key influences in his approach to communicating science. Born to eminent parents - Vishnu Vasudev Narlikar, a mathematician at Benares Hindu University (now IIT-BHU), and Sumati Narlikar, a Sanskrit scholar - Dr. Narlikar received his early education in Varanasi before moving to the University of Cambridge, where he completed his Ph.D. under Sir Hoyle's mentorship.
New Indian Express
28-04-2025
- Science
- New Indian Express
Former ISRO chief Kasturirangan cremated with full state honours
BENGALURU: Former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman , 84, was cremated with full state honours on Sunday. Dr Kasturirangan passed away at his residence in Bengaluru on April 25. His mortal remains were kept at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), where dignitaries including Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Union Ministers, eminent scientists, and the general public gathered to pay their respects. The former ISRO chief is survived by his sons, Rajesh Rangan and Sanjay Rangan, who shared their personal memories of him. 'He was not just a loving and caring father but also a huge motivator for my brother and me. Despite his demanding schedule, he found a way to balance work and family. My mother did most of the caregiving, but dad was the one who would step in whenever she needed us to do something,' Rajesh told The New Indian Express . 'Dad was always very considerate, though sometimes he had to be reminded he was not just the director of ISRO, but also our father,' Rajesh recalled. Sanjay shared that his father was strict and had high standards, particularly when it came to academics and future planning. 'He was very family-oriented, with a strong sense of tradition. He knew the importance of education and foresaw how engineering would be a key field in the future. He always kept himself updated with the changing times, especially when it came to modern-day education. But beyond his professional success, it was his relationships and the way he built connections that stood out. Those connections were his greatest asset, and his affection for people is what truly made him special,' Sanjay said. 'He lost his voice, recovered, remained resilient' Director of Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium BR Guruprasad, who was previously with ISRO, recalled Dr Kasturirangan's personal support. In 2009, Dr Kasturirangan, then a member of the Planning Commission, motivated Guruprasad to pursue a doctorate and promised to guide him. Although Guruprasad could not meet him often owing to Dr Kasturirangan's busy schedule, the latter directed him to the National Institute of Advanced Studies, ensuring he had the support needed. 'Until I defended my thesis, I had his rock solid support,' said Guruprasad, adding that, 'My doctorate is his doctorate.' Dr K Kasturirangan's resilience was evident even during severe health challenges. He endured a serious health setback that caused him to lose his voice. Yet, few were aware of this struggle as he made a full recovery and continued to serve, former ISRO chairman AS Kiran Kumar recalled. Their professional association spanned nearly five decades, beginning when Kiran joined ISRO in 1975, working on the Satellite for Earth Observation programme, where Dr Kasturirangan was the project director. Over the years, Kiran witnessed Dr Kasturirangan's rise from project director to chairman and his continued contributions to ISRO and beyond. His immense contributions will be remembered: PM Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 121st episode of his radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', also paid tribute to the former ISRO Chairman. 'Two days ago, we lost Dr K Kasturirangan, one of the country's greatest scientists. In every meeting with him, we discussed topics like the potential of Indian youth, modern education, and space science. His immense contributions to science, education, and India's space program will always be remembered,' Modi said.
Time of India
27-04-2025
- Science
- Time of India
With fond memories, Kasturirangan's colleagues, mentees bid him farewell
1 2 Bengaluru: Eminent scientist-administrator K Kasturirangan , who passed away at his Bengaluru residence Friday morning, was cremated with state honours here Sunday. Before his final journey, his body was kept in state for several citizens and dignitaries from various walks of life, scientists and his former colleagues to pay their respects at Raman Research Institute. They recalled his love of Carnatic music , cricket, and casual chitchats. A person with a broader perspective on life, science, and service, he built lasting relationships across all walks of life. You Can Also Check: Bengaluru AQI | Weather in Bengaluru | Bank Holidays in Bengaluru | Public Holidays in Bengaluru TK Alex, former director of UR Rao Satellite Centre, who worked with Kasturirangan at Isro in 1988, said, "From project director to Isro chairman, I saw him rise. A perfectionist, yet remarkably approachable — always jovial and respectful, regardless of one's grade, age, or status. Even among 18,000 people, he recognised individual passions; he encouraged my love for writing. I often joked with him, saying, 'Sir, if I sit with you for half an hour, I'll learn a new English word and its perfect usage'." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Discover Affordable Medical Insurance Options for Seniors in the Philippines 2025 LocalPlan Search Now Undo "He loved cricket and music; he often attended music festivals and was deeply rooted in the rich cultural traditions of Travancore. Music was something he definitely loved," Alex recalled. Jayaraman V, former director of National Remote Sensing Centre, Isro, said, "Despite holding high-ranking positions, he always maintained humility and made sure the hierarchy was no barrier to free intellectual exchanges. He was always a mentor, guiding me to further my education." MK Sridhar, chancellor, Chanakya University, who worked with Kasturirangan in framing the National Education Policy , said, "I must have visited his house hundreds of times, and each time, I was welcomed with warmth, food, and his ever-present smile. He always conducted meetings with such warmth and light that we were able to achieve great things. On a personal level, our conversations went beyond work — we shared feelings, aspirations, and ideas, and he consistently inspired and cared for us. His impact on my life is unforgettable." DEEP IMPACT Dr Brindha Sitaram, founder-director, Centre of Psycho-Oncology for Education and Research We once struggled to fund a psychoneuroimmunology study. In a casual conversation, I mentioned it to him, and he immediately said, 'Send me the proposal'. I was planning to seek foreign funding, but he insisted, 'Let's try here.' In no time, he connected with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad director and APJ Abdul Kalam, then DRDO chief, to arrange support. He even left the proposal with Kalam on his way to Moscow, saying, 'Let's see what can be done.' I wondered how cancer research and defence were related, but he simply said, 'We'll find a way.' True to his word, the funding came through. That's the simplicity and greatness of the man, always ready to help everyone Dharmendra Pradhan, minister of education The passing of Kasturirangan is not just a great loss for our nation but for humanity itself. He was not only a brilliant scientist but also a noble and compassionate soul. I had the privilege of working closely with him in the education sector — his loss is deeply personal to me. He was a true visionary; he believed in wide consultation and travelled across the country, engaging with people from every corner to shape public policy. The best tribute we can offer him is by remaining steadfast in our commitment to the education reforms, he so passionately envisioned
Mint
27-04-2025
- Science
- Mint
Kasturirangan shaped Indias space ambitions, educational framework: ISRO chief
Bengaluru, Apr 27 (PTI) ISRO Chairman V Narayanan has remembered Dr Kasturirangan as a transformative figure of the nation, who profoundly shaped India's space ambitions, educational framework, and showed the vision for the future. In his condolence message, he said, Kasturirangan's life, marked by an unwavering pursuit of knowledge and its application for the nation's advancement, has left an enduring legacy. Former ISRO chief K Kasturirangan, who was at the helm of the space agency for nearly a decade, passed away in Bengaluru on Friday at the age of 84. His mortal remains were kept at the Raman Research Institute (RRI) on Sunday for the public to pay their last respects, ahead of the last rites with full state honours. "In the Indian tradition, it is believed that the seeds sown by great individuals blossom into mighty trees, offering shade and sustenance for generations to come, thereby forming a rich ecosystem and legacies down the line. Professor Kasturirangan's visionary work in space and education has indeed grown into such lofty trees, inspiring countless individuals to pursue careers in science and contribute to the nation's progress," Narayanan said. His indomitable spirit, characterised by unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence, will continue to energise future scientific endeavours in the country, he said. "Let us honour this great inspiration through our own sincere, relentless, and selfless hard work towards building a stronger and more prosperous India," he added. Recalling that during Kasturirangan's tenure at ISRO Satellite Centre (now the U R Rao Satellite Centre), he was the Project Director for India's first two experimental earth observation satellites, BHASKARA-I & II, the Chairman said, one of his landmark contributions was the expansion of India's remote sensing (Indian Remote Sensing) programme. Satellites like IRS-1C and IRS-1D launched during his tenure, provided high-resolution data for use in agriculture, forestry, water resources, and urban planning, he said. His vision helped bridge the gap between advanced technology and development, demonstrating how space science could directly benefit the general public. Narayanan said that Kasturirangan was ISRO Chairman and Secretary of the Department of Space from 1994 to 2003, and this era witnessed significant progress and several major missions under his insightful guidance. He spearheaded the successful development and launch of vital satellite series like Indian National Satellite (INSAT) for communication and meteorology, and IRS for Earth observation, he said. The space programme witnessed a successful operationalisation of PSLV and flight testing of GSLV during his leadership, he added. Notably, India's first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1, was conceived during his leadership, firmly establishing the nation in lunar exploration and yielding invaluable scientific insights. As an Astrophysicist, Dr. Kasturirangan's interest includes research in high-energy X-ray and gamma-ray astronomy as well as optical astronomy. He actively supported and drove the development and realisation of the multi-wavelength astronomy mission, AstroSat, right from the beginning, he highlighted. Pointing out that Kasturirangan also chaired the committee responsible for drafting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a pivotal policy aimed at revolutionising India's education system, the condolence message also stated that that he made a significant contribution to environmental conservation through his role as the Chairman of the high level working group on Western ghats, popularly known as Kasturirangan committee. Kasturirangan's influence extended far beyond space and education. He held significant positions such as Member of the Planning Commission, Member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003-2009 and Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission. His dedication and accomplishments earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, as well as international recognition for his scientific and technological contributions, Narayanan said, adding that these accolades underscore the profound impact he had on India and the world. First Published: 27 Apr 2025, 11:24 AM IST
