Month: August 2024

  • Two Professors from IIT Madras were conferred ‘Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar: Vigyan Yuva Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar

    Two Professors from IIT Madras were conferred ‘Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar: Vigyan Yuva Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar

    This prize, which was formerly known as the “Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar” Prize, was given to Professors Prabhu Rajagopal and Radhakrishna Ganti in honour of their exceptional contributions to science and technology.

    INN/Chennai, @Infodeaofficial

    The Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, presented two professors from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras with the “Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar: Vigyan Yuva Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar” August 22, 2024 in Delhi.

    This award, formerly known as the “Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar” Prize, was chosen in honour of Prof. Prabhu Rajagopal of the IIT Madras Department of Mechanical Engineering and Prof. Radhakrishna Ganti of the Department of Electrical Engineering for their exceptional work in science and technology.

    Using tethered and automated submersible vehicles, Prof. Prabhu Rajagopal, who is also the Advisor (Innovation and Entrepreneurship) at IIT Madras, invented automated ultrasonic inspection of marine and fluid-handling assets like pipes, terminals, and tanks. Through developments in robotics and ultrasonics, he has made fundamental contributions to the field of remote non-destructive evaluation of structures and processes. He has also led several start-ups that have brought these breakthroughs to market.

    Professor Radhakrishna Ganti specialises in the creation of wireless communications stacks and hardware made in the country. Prof. Radhakrishna Ganti oversaw the development of 5G radio systems at IIT Madras, the nation’s first facility of its sort. Currently, his team is developing 6G technology. In order to bring modern telecom access and connectivity to remote and rural areas, Prof. Ganti led the creation of rural use cases at the International Telecom Union and made multiple contributions to international standards bodies. He is well known throughout the world for his work on stochastic geometry for cellular and wireless network analysis.

    Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, congratulated the professors on their distinction and stated, “IIT Madras faculty have been engaged in transformational research for at least the last 20 years.” These efforts have produced goods that are extremely important to the country. The fact that two of my coworkers were given the Bhatnagar Prize this year for their outstanding contributions to their fields, which resulted in the development of technology with significant societal and national implications, fills me with tremendous pride.

    Prof. Prabhu Rajagopal of the Mechanical Engineering Department at IIT Madras commented on the accolade, saying, “I am honoured and grateful to receive the nation’s highest recognition for young scientists.” I am pleased to see that this award highlights my work in technology and innovation. I am passionate about both technological translation to solve practical real-world challenges in industry and society as well as basic “blue sky” research. This award serves as a reminder to upcoming scientists and technicians in India that their efforts are valued when they tackle urgent problems like improving access to scalable technology for healthcare, sanitation, and industrial process efficiency.

    Adds Prof. Prabhu Rajagopal: “I would like to use this opportunity to express my gratitude to all of the people who have supported and mentored me throughout the years—my mentors, industry partners, students, and start-up co-founders and investors. Sincere gratitude is extended to the directors, deans, and heads of department of IIT Madras, both past and present, for fostering an environment of excellence and supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, which has resulted in the development of one of India’s top ecosystems for deep-tech firms. My sincere appreciation goes out to my parents, brother (as well as his little kid, who always visits my laboratory with wide eyes), and wife, Dr. Tamaswati Ghosh, for their unwavering support and endurance during the years of what seemed like endless work hours.

    IIT Madras Department of Electrical Engineering Professor Radhakrishna Ganti expressed his gratitude for receiving the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Award for his efforts in wireless and cellular networks. I hope that other academics and researchers will be inspired to work in systems because I am appreciative of the recognition I have received for my work creating and developing wireless systems.

    “I had the honour of working with excellent researchers who have helped me at various stages to significantly contribute to the vision of India-led wireless standards and lay the foundation for an indigenous wireless ecosystem in India,” Prof. Radhakrishna Ganti continued. I would like to express my gratitude to my friends, professors, mentors, and coworkers who supported and encouraged me to follow my interests. My profound thanks goes out to Professors Bhaskar Ramamuthi and V. Kamakoti, as well as the entire IITM administration, for their outstanding assistance over the years and their priceless counsel.

    MeiTY and DOT have provided financial funding and unwavering support for the development of indigenous technology and standards, for which I am very grateful. I would like to express my gratitude to my in-laws for their unwavering support and to my parents for their belief in me. My sincere gratitude goes out to my spouse Sambhavi and son Eswar Prakash, who have always been there for me, encouraged me along the way, and share my enthusiasm and dream for Atmanirbhar Bharath.

  • Innovative IIT Mandi Study Uses Robots to Decode Animal Homing Behavior

    Innovative IIT Mandi Study Uses Robots to Decode Animal Homing Behavior

    INN/Chennai, @Infodeaofficial

    Significant progress has been made by an Indian Institute of Technology Mandi researcher in comprehending how animals find their way home after foraging, even in the face of unforeseen detours. The researcher investigated the intricacies of homing behaviour in a controlled setting using tiny, programmable robots.

    For many animals, being able to return home after activities like migration or foraging is essential. For example, homing pigeons are well known for their remarkable navigational abilities, which enable them to transmit messages over great distances. Salmon, monarch butterflies, and sea turtles all travel great distances to return to their birthplaces. Scientists have long been fascinated by this homing behaviour that is ubiquitous in nature.

    Various tactics are employed by different species to accomplish homing. While some rely on environmental signals like odours, landmarks, star positions, or the Earth’s magnetic field, others rely on route integration, which determines their return depending on the distance travelled and orientation. Even with these many approaches, homing is usually a very effective procedure. Still unsolved, though, is the impact of random variables, or “noise,” on animal navigation.

    The research team used tiny robots made to resemble animals in order to study these patterns. Approximately 7.5 cm in diameter, these robots can locate a “home” indicated by the brightest light source because they are outfitted with sensors to sense light and things. Like some animals, the robots use independently controlled wheels to travel and change their routes according on the amount of light.

    The length of homing is not affected by unpredictability levels above an ideal threshold, the study discovered. Computer simulations confirmed these results by showing that the robots’ capacity to correct their routes was improved by sporadic “resets,” in which they turned to face home.

    Dr. Harsh Soni, an assistant professor at IIT Mandi’s School of Physical Sciences, emphasised the research’s wider ramifications. “These findings could inform the development of better autonomous vehicle navigation systems and enhance search and rescue operations,” he stated. Furthermore, the study provides insightful information about cellular dynamics, where related mechanisms may be involved.”

    The journal PRX LIFE has published the study’s findings. Dr. Harsh Soni from IIT Mandi, along with Dr. Arnab Pal and Mr. Arup Biswas from The Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Chennai, carried out the research’s theoretical and numerical elements. Dr. Nitin Kumar and Mr. Somnath Paramanich from IIT Bombay oversaw the experimental effort.

    The study offers fresh insights into the mechanics of homing and creates opportunities for additional investigation in technological and biological contexts.

  • American Honours Tamil Actor Vijay Vishva

    American Honours Tamil Actor Vijay Vishva

    INN/Chennai, @Infodeaofficial

    The American Tamil Association honoured Vijay Vishva, a budding actor from Tamil Nadu, with a lavish celebration. Rising Tamil cinema hero Vijay Vishva made his screen debut in a supporting role in the movie “Attakathi” (2012). Subsequently, he performed in “Kutti Puli,” and his breakthrough role as a hero came in “Kerala Nattilam Pengaludane.” His other film appearances included “Touring Talkies,” “Saagasam,” “Pattathari,” “Bigil,” “Mayaanadhi,” “Kombu Vacha Singamda,” and “Saayam.” At present, he is handling films such as “Brahma Muhurtham,” “Tharaipadai,” “Sara,” and “Paraparappu.” He still performs charitable work in secret despite his rising notoriety.

     

    On Independence Day, the American Tamil Association welcomed and honoured Vijay Vishva, who has already won numerous accolades. August 2024 saw the event take place in Queens, New York. Under the direction of Queens India Day Parade Committee Chairman Koshy O. Thomas and President Kathirvel Kumararaja, the New York Tamil Sangam proudly presented an amazing Indian Day Parade in Queens.  With lively cultural performances and a strong sense of community, the event, which brought together numerous Indian state organisations, honoured India’s 78th Independence Day.

    As the parade’s grand marshal, actor and social activist Vijay Vishva led the procession with tremendous zeal and accepted an award from the parade of the Indian national flag, which was organised by the New York Police Department. As a sign of respect, he received a unique commemorative medal and was driven in a car with the American flag painted on it. Native Americans hailed his appearance as the event’s high point.

    The American audience was also enthralled with traditional Indian music, dancing, and cultural displays. Vijay Vishva received the “Young Bari” award during a ceremony in the United States. Numerous celebrities, including Bigg Boss Archana, director Venkat Prabhu, actresses Aishwarya Rajesh, Sukanya, Soori, Vaibhav, and Mirchi Shiva, attended the award ceremony.

    In addition, Vijay Vishva took part in a number of occasions all throughout the country. Napoleon, a well-known actor and former member of parliament, was present at the Independence Day celebration as a special guest. After accepting Napoleon’s offer, Vijay Vishva went to his house, where Dhanush, Napoleon’s son, also joined them. They saw the highly acclaimed film “Mayanadhi,” starring Vijay Vishva, on OTT. It is a source of pride for India that a Tamil actor is taking part in Independence Day celebrations in the United States for the first time.

    A group headed by FETNA President Balasami Nathan, Queens Parade Chairman Koshy O. Thomas, President of the New York Tamil Sangam Kumararaja Kathirvel, businesswoman Ajin Mariam Singh, and Washington, DC, organised the event. Rajaram, President of Tamil Sangam California Tamil Sangam President Murugesan Ganapathi, Cardwell Raman, a representative from Dallas, Ponparathi from New Jersey, and Canada Siva Velupillai, Florida, Tamil Sangam The statement from the event organisers lists Tampa Deva Anbu Subramaniam, Houston Macover Anbulakshmanan, Naperville Khan Ravi, New York Premlight, Texas Raghu, Atlanta Tamil Sangam’s Akshden and Jay, among others.

     

     

     

  • This Rakshabandhan, Sarbananda Sonowal makes it extra special for ministry workers

    This Rakshabandhan, Sarbananda Sonowal makes it extra special for ministry workers

    The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways staff was in for a pleasant surprise on the occasion of “Raksha Bandhan” when Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal asked all of the female staff members in attendance to tie him a Rakhi on the holy day.

    In addition to ministry officials, Rakhi was connected to the Honourable Minister by Young Professionals employed by the ministry, Sagarmala Development Company Limited, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).

    As everyone celebrated as one family, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal expressed his satisfaction at being a part of this wonderful brother-sister bond. One of the workers who wore the Rakhi on Sonowal’s arm commented that it was a beautiful gesture that should be made for all departments. Since her own brother is overseas, another employee noted that finding a brother in the minister to tie the Rakhi was a fortunate occasion.

    In addition to expressing his gratitude to everyone, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal wished everyone a happy Rakshabandhan. According to Sonowal, this serves to further cement the Ministry’s unity and sense of family.

  • Startup Incubated by IIT Madras Plugzmart receives accreditation for their indigenously made EV charger from the ARAI

    Startup Incubated by IIT Madras Plugzmart receives accreditation for their indigenously made EV charger from the ARAI

     

    INN/Chennai, @Infodeaofficial

    A Smart EV Charger Start-up based at IIT Madras The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), a research institute of the automotive industry with the Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India, has certified Plugzmart, an EV charger manufacturing company, for its EV charger. This is a significant step forward for India’s domestic EV infrastructure.

    This accreditation for Plugzmart’s unique controller card and 60kW DC fast charger indicates that they have complied with India’s strict operational safety and efficiency regulations. This accomplishment demonstrates Plugzmart’s dedication to excellence and innovation in the EV charging infrastructure.

    The electric vehicle ecosystem, which is expanding quickly in India, includes the EV charging industry. An infrastructure for effective and convenient electric vehicle charging is becoming more and more necessary as the nation moves towards greener energy and transportation options. Government subsidies and private investment fuel the industry’s growth and innovation at a never-before-seen rate.

    Mr Vivek Samynathan, the founder and CEO of Plugzmart, emphasised the importance of this accomplishment by saying, “Getting the ARAI certification for our 60kW DC fast charger, especially with our own controller card, is a significant achievement for us.” This accomplishment strengthens our leadership position in the EV charging sector and proves our dedication to quality and safety. This fiscal year, we also want to introduce a number of innovative new items that will expand our market reach.

    “We are dedicated to building a comprehensive ecosystem of hardware and software solutions in the energy domain,” Mr Vivek Samynathan continued, “as part of our broader vision.” Our objective is to offer comprehensive solutions that not only meet the demands of the electric car industry today, but also open the door for further advancements in sustainable energy. Our goal is to establish a smooth, effective, and expandable energy infrastructure that facilitates the world’s shift to more environmentally friendly and sustainable modes of transportation by combining smart technologies, cutting-edge control systems, and Internet of Things-enabled platforms.

    Furthering his explanation, Plugzmart’s co-founder, Mr. Ragavendra Ravichandran, stated, “Plugzmart is a one-stop shop for all EV charging-related products and software services.” We take great satisfaction in our exceptional hardware and software proficiency, which no other Indian company can match.

    India’s EV charging technology market is expanding quickly because to rising public awareness of environmental issues and government backing. However, China is becoming a bigger source of charging technology imports, coinciding with the growing popularity of EVs.

    It is essential to identify and incorporate homegrown innovations into the ecosystem in order to reduce these imports and promote domestic manufacturing. Companies in the EV industry must give priority to domestic manufacturers as part of the government’s phased manufacturing program, ensuring that homegrown technologies like Plugzmart’s are at the forefront of this shift.

  • Satellite launch at Sriharikota: Two payloads of which one from Chennai, another US

    Satellite launch at Sriharikota: Two payloads of which one from Chennai, another US

    INN/Chennai, @Infodeaofficial

    It was a momentous day for us as we celebrate the successful launch of our satellite, SR-0 DEMOSAT, aboard the SSLV D3 from ISRO’s Sriharikota facility. This satellite, weighing approximately 1200 grams, along with the separation system, is a testament to our commitment to innovation and education in space technology.

    It carries two payloads: one from SRM Public School in Chennai and another from AVS Academy in Illinois, USA. These payloads represent the collaborative spirit and global reach of our educational initiatives. Our team has meticulously developed the satellite, deployer, and sequencer at our facility. A standout feature of this mission is Deployer X, an advanced technology designed by our “Lead Structural Engineer, Mr. Clinton Antony”.

    Deployer X is recognized as the World’s lightest and smallest deployer, which weighed 450 gms and have the capacity to launch 3kgs -4kgs payloads. This showcased our ability to push the boundaries of space technology. This deployer is not just a marvel of engineering but also a symbol of our dedication to creating cutting-edge solutions.

    The sequencer module, an avionics package, plays a crucial role in the deployment process. It receives commands from the rocket’s onboard computer and initiates the Hold-Down Release Mechanism (HDRM) for separation. This sophisticated system ensures that our deployer can work seamlessly with any existing launch vehicle, such as Falcon 9, Ariane 6, and Vulcan, as well as future launch vehicles from India.

    This versatility highlights our forward-thinking approach and our readiness to adapt to the evolving landscape of space exploration. This achievement underscores our mission to make space exploration extremely accessible and affordable for everyone.

    By developing these advanced technologies and fostering international collaborations, we are paving the way for a new era of space economy. This separation system with TRL 9 rating is going to make a drastic shift in the CubeSAT and MicroSAT industry economically.

    India will now be known not only for economic launch facility but, also economic Satellite manufacturing. Today, we not only celebrate a successful launch but also the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for us and the global space community.

    Dr. Srimathy Kesan – Co. Founder Space Rickshaw Pvt Ltd Founder CEO
    Space Kidz India