Annual Report 2006-2007

DST Scientific Institutions & Professional Academies

Introduction

The department has been supporting 15 autonomous institutions in specific frontline areas of science and technology to continuously pursue basic research to keep up with the pace of R&D at the global level. These institutions have been instrumental in producing trained manpower and develop several application areas of importance to the nation, in a wide spectrum of scientific and engineering disciplines. Based on the research activities the institutions could be broadly classified into four major groups viz. Institutions focusing on (a) Outer Space Events, (b) Global History & Health, (c) Molecule to Material Science, (d) Science Applications for well being.

Support is also being extended to 5 professional societies, who are actively striving to bring into focus some of the scientific issues of national and global importance requiring scientific inquiry and in, awareness creation, information dissemination, man-power development.

The following sections provide glimpses and highlights of the research contributions made by the institutions during the reporting year.

Outer Space Events

Three Institutes namely IIA, ARIES and RRI have been exploring the basic scientific frontier areas in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Atmospheric & Theoretical Physics and Optics. Specialised areas like, photometric studies of galaxies, planetary physics, solar activity, spectroscopy of the sun, star clusters, stellar energy distribution, stellar populations are being pursued currently. The scope of activities of these institutions include, promoting, guiding and carrying out front-line basic research, establishment of front ranking facilities, providing interactions and making accessible the state-of-art facilities to other institutions including universities to conduct research.

Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bangalore

The Raman Research Institute founded by Prof. C. V. Raman in the late forties, was reorganized in 1970 as a National Institute for research in basic science and has been receiving grants from the DST since 1972. The main fields of research are Theoretical Physics, Light and Matter Physics, Soft Condensed Matter and Astronomy & Astrophysics.

Astronomy & Astrophysics - Studies of radio recombination lines of Hydrogen and Carbon from Galactic and extragalactic sources were carried out using the Very Large Array and the Arecibo Radio telescopes. The physical properties and kinematics of material in these systems were estimated. The Arecibo Radio telescope was used to carry out pulsar surveys. Multi-wavelength observations of Gamma Ray Bursts and Supernovae were carried out leading to constraints on the models for these sources. A molecular line survey of star forming regions was carried out using the radio telescopes in Mopra and Korea. A nearby group of galaxies was imaged in atomic Hydrogen using the Giant Meterwave Radio telescope. A method to use the correlations of spectral intensity fluctuations to mitigate radio frequency interference was developed. Effects of heating due to active galactic nuclei on groups of galaxies was analysed and, related to the production of cosmic rays and the presence of excess Lithium in Halo stars. The radiative transport of dust in galaxies was estimated. Relation between black hole accretion and the growth of bulges was explored. Helical jet in a gravitationally lensed system was modeled. A system of X-shaped radio galaxies were modeled. Generation mechanism of magnetic fields in the early universe was studied. The signature of atomic hydrogen gas from the early universe was estimated.

Light and Matter Physics - Electro-magnetically induced transparency was observed in fluorescence in alkali vapour. The nonlinear optics group has studied and published the results of nonlinear light transmission in nanocomposite polymer films and nanocyrstalline thin films. The experimental set up for the intense laser field - matter (liquid microjet & solid targets) is being optimized. Work on the Bose-

Einstein Condensate is in progress and significant improvements have been made. Investigations of decoherence times for superposition states using Electromagnetically Induced Transparency (EIT) are ongoing. Theory and experiments confirm the dominance of Levy statistics in the intensity of emitted light from Random Amplifying Media (RAM). A novel Fiber-RAM is used to probe the crossover from Gaussian to Levy statistics, providing an optical analogue of the Arrhenius cascade. The quantum interactions group is working towards the laser cooling of Rubidium atoms.

Soft Condensed Matter - The on-going synthesis of new compounds with unusual architecture as well as the characterization of the mesophases exhibited by them are being continued. Atomic Force Microscope and a Confocal Microscope have been procured. New topics of interest such as Rheology and Ellipsometry have been initiated.

Theoretical Physics - The research work carried out falls into three broad areas:

1. Classical and Quantum Gravity - (i) Testing post-Newtonian theory with gravitational wave observations; study of tail effects in the 3PN gravitation wave energy flux of inspiralling compact binaries; study of inspiralling compact binaries in quasi-elliptical orbits; (ii) study of analogies between surface tension and the cosmological constant problem; (iii) study of the connection between Ricci flows and the positive mass theorem of general relativity; (iv) study of reduced models of causal set quantum gravity; problem of recovery of continuum topology from causal sets; (v) study of functional evolution of quantum cylindrical waves; study of quantum resolution of the black hole information loss problem in 1+1 black holes and Dirac quantization of parametrised field theory.

2. Physics in Biology - (i) study of properties of semi-flexible polymers, such as its radius of gyration, in the presence of constraints such as applied links and closed ends; (ii) study of processes within the cell such as dynamics of intracellular trafficking networks, dynamics of active membranes and filaments.

3. Condensed Matter and Non-equilibrium Statistical Mechanics - (i) study of dynamics of solid state transformations; (ii) study of thermal and electrical transport in mesoscopic systems using stochastic approaches; (iii) study of fluctuations in non-equilibrium systems and their implications on the functioning of molecular devices.

Indian Institute Of Astrophysics (IIA), Bangalore

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is primarily devoted to basic research, instrumentation and training in astronomy, astrophysics, and related physical sciences. At present, the institute has facilities spread over six places: Bangalore, Hosakote, Kodaikanal, Kavalur, Hanle, and Gauribidanur. Institute's facilities were used for singular discoveries in the solar system: (i) atmosphere around Jupiter's satellite Ganymede in 1972, and (ii) rings around Uranus in 1977, (iii) discovery of asteroid, 'Ramanujan' in 1988.

The year witnessed noteworthy developments on many fronts along with significant growth in many areas. The institute has published as many as 85 papers in refereed journals and 60 papers in conference proceedings and books. Several scientists have taken part in the teaching and guidance of graduate students and others from various institutions and university from all over India. Apart from these activities scientists have been invited to talks at various reputed scientific and educational institutions in India and abroad.

A spectacular event in the form of a total solar eclipse lasting about 4 minutes was successfully observed from Antalya in Turkey on March 29, 2006 by a five member team of scientists from the Institute. High spatial resolution narrow band photometric images were recorded of the corona to investigate the nature of coronal waves and physical conditions in coronal structures.

Narrow band image of a portion of the corona in green line at 5303A taken during totality on 29 march, 2006, at Antalya, Turkey.

The High Altitude Gamma Ray Telescope array (HAGAR) at the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO), Hanle, consisting of 7 telescopes, each with 7 mirrors having a total collection area of 4.4 sq. m is nearing completion. Two of these telescopes which were installed during the year received first light. Five additional telescopes of HAGAR array, Hanle, were installed during the summer of 2006 completing the mechanical installation of the entire array.

The design of the Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope (UVIT) payload for ASTROSAT, the first Indian astronomy space mission, scheduled for launch in 2008, is in its final stages. It will be the first UV space telescope from India with three times better angular resolution than any similar telescope, providing new openings to Indian astronomers as well as paving the way for future national and international projects in UV and EUV astronomy. The Institute is a major partner in TAUVEX, an Indo-Israeli collaborative space-based ultraviolet imaging experiment, which is currently scheduled for launch in 2007. It consists of three UV telescopes that will provide a unique data set of the unexplored UV sky. The payload will be provided by Tel Aviv University, while IIA will contribute to mission planning, software development and data analysis.

The Institute organized various scientific conferences, workshops and schools during 2006. Continuing in the tradition of past years, a three-week summer school at the Kodaikanal campus was conducted for graduate and post graduate students on physics and astrophysics. Speakers from various reputed institutes delivered lectures in the school. Workshops on Science from the Himalayan Chandra Telescope were also organized at IIA, Bangalore. The institute has conducted an 'In-house Workshop' during April 17-18, 2006. Most of the scientists of IIA gave a short description of their research activities. The presentation covered a vast range of topics such as solar physics, stars and stellar systems, novae and planetary nebulae, galaxies, Earth's atmosphere, theoretical astrophysics, and instrumentation.

In solar physics, scientists are trying to measure variations of temperature, and non-thermal velocity in coronal loops, sunspot motions and waves, irradiance variability, activity and coronal holes. Other work includes theoretical modelling of the dynamics and nature of wave propagation in the magnetic network. The characteristics of type II radio bursts are being analyzed and efforts are in progress to estimate the coronal magnetic field. Experiments continue at Hanle with a view to understanding the sources and distribution of carbon dioxide emission in the terrestrial atmosphere. In planetary science, the impact plume caused by the NASAs Deep-impact probe on comet Tempel 1 was recorded and is being studied.

Turning to stellar and galactic astronomy, it is satisfying to note that a large number of observations were carried out using the telescope facilities of the Institute. In-house built focal point instruments such as the fibre-coupled echelle spectrograph and speckle interferometer for the 2.34 m Vainu Bappu telescope (VBT), Vainu Bappu Observatory (VBO) in Kavalur, are producing new results. An auto-guider system was recently installed on the remotely operated 2 m Himalayan Chandra telescope (HCT) in Hanle. Both these telescopes are over subscribed. Research by the institute scientists has focussed on young stellar objects, evolved stars, star clusters, binary stars, chemical composition and abundance analysis, high resolution spectroscopy, interstellar matter, planetary nebulae, brown dwarfs, exo-solar planets, exploding stars, galactic disk, and active galaxies.

Long Trace Profilometer (version II).

The Institute has an active theoretical group working on a range of problems in astrophysics and physics. Studies are being carried out on the magnetohydrodynamics of accretion disks, pulsars, radiative transfer, dynamics of galaxies, relativistic astrophysics particularly dark energy, and quasar redshift distribution. The physics group is exploring parity non-conservation effects in Ba+ as a probe of physics beyond the standard model.

In the area of instrumentation, the Institute proposes to acquire a high resolution spectropolarimeter for HCT in Hanle. Noteworthy progress has been achieved in the design and development of a wavefront sensor which is an integral part of an adaptive optics system. Experiments were performed in bacteriorhodospin (BR) films. A two-beam spectropolarimeter for Kodaikanal Tower telescope has also been developed. The primary mirror of the 1 m telescope has been successfully replaced by one developed in-house and the instrument is being used regularly for stellar observations. A new modern 1.3 m stellar telescope for imaging is being acquired for VBO, Kavalur.

Graduate Studies Program

The Institute has a vibrant graduate studies programme with students working towards their doctorates on a range of diverse research areas. The Institute faculty actively participates in teaching graduate courses. Several IIA scientists received awards in recognition for their achievements.

Library

The library has created an Open Access Repository, which is a repository of IIA theses, publications (reprints and preprints), Bulletin of the Astronomical Society of India papers and archival collection. This resource is accessible on the internet through the institute website.

Computer Section

The computer section has installed a new system for high performance computing that is ideally suited for parallel processing. The institute recently joined the national grid computing initiative GARUDA, that provides even higher levels of computational resources through a nation wide distributed network.

Public Outreach

As a part of the public outreach programme, the Institute celebrated National Science day on 28th February. Lectures on astronomy, and film shows on the laboratories and observatories of the Institute were among the several activities during the day, in which the public and school children participated.

Aryabhatta Research Institute Of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital.

ARIES, a reincarnation of 50 years old State Observatory, came into existence on March 22, 2004. The longitude of ARIES locates it in the middle of about 180 degree wide longitude band having modern astronomical facilities between Canary Island (~ 20° W) and Eastern Australia (~ 155° E). The observations, which are not possible in Canary Island or Australia due to day light, can be obtained from ARIES. ARIES has facilities like 104-cm, 56-cm, 52-cm and 38-cm optical telescopes, Cooled CCD Cameras, Spectrophotometers, Photoelectric photometer, 15-cm Solar Telescope. Steps are being taken for developing the research as well as infrastructural facilities. The GRIMM aerosol spectrometer, athelometer, Micro top- II, Sun Photometer and Ozonometer and CCD Camera have been procured and their installation is under process.The back end instruments like filters, gratings, controllers, UPS and batteries and infrastructural facilities like computers, vehicles, EPABX that were procured have been operationalised during the period of review.

Global History & Health

Three institutions namely IIG, BSIP and WIHG are fundamentally concentrating on exploring the nature and evolution of planet Earth. A range of cutting edge research areas relating to understanding the Upper Atmospheric structure and perturbations, Solid Earth Geomagnetism, fundamental and applied Palaeobotany, basic and applied research related to Himalayan geology are being pursued. Recent emphasis has been on understanding the Quaternary eustatic sea level changes, global climate change, paleo and neo- tectonic activities and rates. The institutes have also been carrying out long term multi-parametric observations through sophisticated instruments for monitoring the variations in solid earth geomagnetism, crustal dynamics etc. for evolving and refining models for better understanding of the phenomena.

Indian Institute Of Geomagnetism (IIG), Navi Mumbai

The main areas of research at the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) are: Observatories and Data Analysis, Upper Atmospheric Sciences, and Solid Earth Geomagnetism. The instrumentation division of IIG is involved in development and maintenance of various instruments used for observations in the above areas. Highlights of some of the major scientific activities undertaken at IIG during the above period are presented here.

Observatories and Data Analysis

The Institute continued to operate nine magnetic observatories at different locations in the country, where geomagnetic field variations were continuously recorded using variometers, digital fluxgate magnetometers, Intermagnet system, and proton precession magnetometers. Construction of a new magnetic observatory in the campus of Saurashtra University at Rajkot has been completed. IIG maintains the data from the observatories in one of the six World Data Centres at Mumbai for use by the research community Data from Alibag magnetic observatory is utilized in the computation of a global magnetic activity index, for quantitative description of "space weather". Geomagnetic data is also regularly supplied to ONGC.

A major issue related to "space weather" is the geoeffectiveness of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun. The present solar cycle produced many solar flares and CMEs, which gave rise to intense geomagnetic storms. The global geomagnetic response to sudden compression of the magnetosphere due to a sudden change in solar wind dynamic pressure is a storm sudden commencement (SSC) or a sudden impulse (SI). Impulsive enhancement of ion energies as seen by GOES 10 satellite after the shock encounter have a significant correlation with the post shock spikes in the 'H' component at the low latitude station Pondicherry.

India has a unique advantage in having the dip equator pass through its southern tip. One of IIG's magnetic observatories is located at IIG's Equatorial Geophysical Research Laboratory (EGRL) at Tirunelveli near the dip equator. Geomagnetic data from this and other low latitude observatories of IIG have been used together with multi-satellite observations of solar wind parameters associated with some major geomagnetic storms to study the changes in the magnetospheric storm time electric field and associated effects in the equatorial electric field, estimated using the disturbance time equatorial electrojet strength parameter.

Observations with an induction coil magnetometer installed at IIG's Dr. K. S. Krishnan Geomagnetic Research Laboraory (KSKGRL) at Allahabad to study ULF magnetic field variations revealed pearl type pulsations of about 4 Hz just after thunderstorm activity and also Schumann resonance at ~ 8 Hz. It is necessary to understand the origin and characteristics of such ULF variations caused by sources external to earth, in order to be able to identify possible electromagnetic precursors of earthquakes in this frequency range.

IIG continues its active participation in Indian Antarctic expeditions, since observations at Indian Antarctic station, Maitri, are very important for understanding the transfer of energy from the solar wind as a result of solar wind-magnetosphere coupling. Correlation between magnetic field variations and 30 MHz cosmic noise absorption recorded at Maitri has been studied. It is seen that absorption increases many folds during most magnetic disturbances, while no absorption was observed during few disturbances. This feature requires further analysis.

Upper Atmospheric Sciences

Near-earth space offers a laboratory to study various kinds of wave phenomena in a plasma. These phenomena are associated with other aspects of "space weather" such as magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling. The relationship between pulse widths and periods of high frequency waves in magnetized plasma consisting of hot electrons, cool electrons and cool ions waves, as well as the effect of the propagation angle on electric field structures have been investigated using the fluid approach and the results compared with satellite observations. A linear theory of low frequency waves has been developed in four-component magnetized plasma consisting of three types of electrons, namely cold background electron, warm electrons, warm electron beam and ions, to explain some features of the low-frequency part of broadband electrostatic noise commonly observed in different regions of the Earth's magnetosphere, such as the auroral region and plasma sheet boundary layer.

Satellite observations have revealed solitary potential structures in the Earth's magnetotail region having both positive and negative electrostatic potentials. A mechanism for nonlinear evolution of electron acoustic solitary waves has been developed to show the co-existence of compressive and rarefactive solitary structures for a specific plasma parametric range. The amplitude, velocity, and width associated with these positive and negative solitary structures are numerically obtained. These estimates are in good agreement with the observed solitary wave structures.

A portable all-sky scanning photometer unit with six filters was fabricated and installed at Kolhapur. Structures of bubbles or depletions observed in all-sky images of OI 630.0 nm at Kolhapur have been investigated with simultaneous observations of VHF backscatter radar echoes at Gadanki. Two advanced digital ionosondes have been installed at KSKGRL, Allahabad, and EGRL, Tirunelveli, respectively, to study the spatial distribution of ionospheric plasma under different conditions. The ionosonde at Allahabad fills a gap that existed for studying the low latitude ionosphere in Indian longitudes. Comparison of data from the two sites should yield information about the dynamics of the equatorial anomaly.

Under the GPS-Aided Geo-Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) project of ISRO, temporal variations of the vertical total electron content (TEC) have been examined during and after a large magnetic storm to delineate an enhancement in TEC due to a disturbance dynamo set up by heating of the neutrals at high latitudes. Equatorial spread F irregularities were studied using simultaneous observations of VHF scintillations with spaced receivers located at Tirunelveli and Mumbai, GPS TEC and L-band scintillations at various locations in India, and ISRO's MST radar at Gadanki, which are sensitive to irregularities of different spatial scales. These irregularities have detrimental effect on communication and navigation systems such as GPS, and hence the necessity to study their generation and spatial evolution.

The diurnal tide is the dominant dynamical component at upper mesospheric heights (80-90 km) at low latitudes. The long-term MF radar data sets from Tirunelveli encompassing more than 13 years have been used to consolidate the long-term variabilities of the diurnal tide. Over the Indian site, tidal activity observed at upper mesospheric heights is strongly modulated by the lower stratospheric quasi-biennial oscillation in mean zonal winds, which the existing tidal models are yet to reproduce.

The ball antenna sensors designed to separate and monitor the conduction, convection and displacement current densities that add to drive the total air-Earth Maxwell current density, were deployed in the field and the electrometers tuned to obtain useful current measurements.

Solid Earth Geomagnetism

Palaeomagnetic, rock magnetic, and low field AMS investigations on 24 NW - SE oriented dolerite dykes, which traverse the Bundelkhand Craton, have yielded a high quality and statistically significant isolated primary component (ChRM) direction, which yielded a virtual geomagnetic pole (VGP) grouping well with the Late Archaean Indian poles, that represent 2150 Ma pole from the Indian Shield. Rock magnetic studies, comprising low and high temperature susceptibilities, Magnetostratigraphic and magnetic fabric studies on a 5500 m Cenozoic sedimentary section, which is exposed along the New Silchar-Halflong Road, of the Assam -Arakhan basin were undertaken. The demagnetization protocol used was successful in isolating the ChRM directions from the samples yielding a magnetic polarity stratigraphy (MPS) containing 18 normal and 21 reversal polarities. The obtained MPS was matched with the standard geomagnetic polarity time scale (GPTS) and the ages for the studied formations were defined between 6 Ma to 30 Ma. The average sediment accumulation rate was noticed as 24 cm/ka with an unconformity of 2.14 Ma between Renji and Lower Bhuban Formations. Magnetic foliations and lineations data suggested a NE-SW directed palaeo-current direction, indicating that the sediment input was from the positive areas like Mishimi Hill, which is located at the northeastern margin of the Assam-Arakan Basin.

Magnetostratigraphic investigation of samples collected from 250 sites of lower karewa deposits in the river Romushi, indicate a total of 8 normal and 8 reversed polarities during the deposition of Romushi sediments, providing for the first time an age of 0.79 to 4.68 Ma for the Kashmir Karewa formation. Measured magnetic susceptibility has been used as the main indicator of direction of magnetic mineral movement/ accumulation and also for spatial and temporal changes in their concentration, in a study of sediment movement along the Redi, Aravali and Vengurla beaches of Sindhudurg District, Maharashtra. Latur sediments affected by 1994 earthquake were studied to determine crustal stress changes based on stress dependent magnetic sediment properties. It is found that small particles have a higher internal stress increasing the magnetic hardness. Archaeological artifacts from Tamil Nadu were subjected to various rock magnetic measurements in order to select samples for measurements of palaeointensity and various mineral magnetic parameters.

Broadband magnetotelluric (MT) studies were carried out over a 120 km long profile from Tejpur to Tawang, in the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh region. A total of 20 stations were sounded in the Tawang-Tejpur- Diphu region. These studies suggest that the Mikir hills have a significant extension beneath the Brahmaputra sediments up to Tejpur. The entire region shows several NW dipping thrusts conforming to the general trendof the Himalayan thrusts to the north. A regional conductance map of Andaman-Nicobar region, based on geomagnetic depth sounding and ocean bottom magnetometer observations, is under preparation. Long period MT field investigations were completed for the DST sponsored project "Magnetotelluric studies across Eastern Ghat Mobile Belts (EGMB) and the adjoining Dharwar and Bastar Cratons' along an east-west profile from Karwar (West coast) to Ongole (east coast), cutting across the EGMB.

In a Global Positioning System (GPS) study of crustal deformation in northern Andaman region, an analogous situation to the Nijiima-Kozushima in Izu peninsula, Japan was found. For each seismic zone in the Andaman region, the calculated velocity shows greater stress accumulation in the southern regions. A GPS database study of the characteristics of post-seismic crustal deformation after the 2005 Kashmir Earthquake has also been undertaken. Velocity field of the Schirmacher Glacier in Antarctica was derived from two GPS surveys, which demonstrated the strain partitioning and dynamic nature of this glacier.

Instrumentation

A Proton Precession Magnetometer (PPM) of 1 nT sensitivity was assembled and tested. Several constant current sources were assembled, tested, and sent to IIG's magnetic observatories at Nagpur, Alibag, and Shillong. Work on development of a Fluxgate Magnetometer is in progress with current focus on its temperature compensation. Development of a vector PPM and a declination-inclination magnetometer has also been undertaken. Frequency response of a sensor designed and fabricated for an Overhauser magnetometer is being tested. A TM mode cable type resonator was also designed for this project and is now being fabricated.

Publication

SCI Journals: 13
Non-SCI Journals: 4
Scientist/ published paper: 2
Cumulative impact factor: 14.049
Papers presented in international conferences: 16

Specialized Services Offered

(1) Sub-surface electrical conductivity structure derived from magnetotelluric studies in the NE Himalayan region, around Tejpur and surrounding areas have been provided to M/s Power Grid Corporation of India for selecting a suitable low resistivity site for the ground electrode.

(2) Digital data for 2006 from three of IIG's magnetic observatories were supplied against payment to ONGC Ltd., Dehra Dun, for use in estimation of the diurnal correction in the processing of marine magnetic data.

(3) 13 landing compasses and 3 Datum Compasses received from Indian Navy were calibrated at magnetic observatory Alibag.

External Cash Flow

External cash flow/ scientist: Rs. 2.86 lakhs

On-going Collaborative Research Programs/Projects

(a) Within India: 8
(b) With foreign partners: 2

Training Imparted

Six M.Sc. students from Cochin University; 2 from Sholapur University; 2 students of M.Sc. (Tech.) from Andhra University; 2 students from Annamalai University, and one student from SRTM University, Nanded, completed their dissertation projects at IIG.

Wadia Institute Of Himalayan Geology, (WIHG) Dehradun

Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology is devoted to undertake basic and applied research on geology and its related fields including geodynamic processes, natural resources, environment, and natural disasters in order to understand the orogenic dynamics of the majestic Himalaya. The focal objectives and nature of studies undertaken by the Institute are as follows:

• The passive seismology, magnetotelluric, gravity studies providing geometry of the thrust structures. This coupled with geological mapping aided with strain analysis, clay modeling, petrographic, geochemical, geo-thermo-barometeric, and geochronologic studies are being used to model orogenic uplift and exhumation.
• Studies of pre- syn- and post collision basins are carried to provide continental drift history and associated climato-tectonic variations. Investigations on sedimentary proxies in the Siwalik Foreland, Lesser and Tethys Himalaya provide climate-tectonic interactions on varied time.
• Peat deposits, glacier and tree line fluctuations are used to resolve decadal variations in monsoon.
• Understanding of geodynamic processes causing earthquakes, landslides, cloudburst, and lake outbursts etc, are the priority research areas.
• The mega- and micro-fossil records in the Himalaya are archives of evolution, diversification, and extinction of life in the global context. An integrated approach involving taxonomy, morphometry, magneto- and bio- stratigraphy, geochemistry is being pursued to understand biodiversity and its environmental linkage across major geological boundaries (PC/C, P/T, K/T).
• Himalayan glaciers are pivotal to climatic balance and fresh water resources of Indian sub-continent. The mass balance studies to understand glacial dynamics in view of global warming are embarked on, where glacial water chemistry and discharge variability allow to estimate sediment/water production, transport and to model the headwater river runoff resource in management perspective.

End users:

The basic research carried out by the scientists is more of academic interest. In addition, the institute also aims at serving the end user community with specific information. Some of it are listed below:

Institute extends geotechnical nature of work to end users like Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (HPPWD), Border Road Organisation (BRO), Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board (HPSEB), Himachal Pradesh Irrigation and Public Health Department (HPIPH), Himachal Pradesh Forest department, Construction companies involved in hydro-electric projects.

Extends analytical facilities and expertise for carrying out chemical analysis to the research scholars, M.Sc./M.Tech students from other Institutions and Universities, as well as industries.

Urban Development and Town Planners, and Planners of development of Power Projects have been getting help from the institute for deriving information using remote sensing data.

The Hydrogeological data generated has been extensively used by the state government agencies like Uttaranchal Jal Sansthan and Jal Nigam for augmenting better water supply to the inhabitants. Suggested measures for the recharge of springs are under consideration by government agencies for implementation. Baseline water chemistry/quality data has been generated for facilitation of assessment of impact of human activities on the quality of water of the region.

More than 5000 glaciers have been identified in different parts of the Himalaya and their water discharge is catering to various domestic, commercial and ecological needs of adjoining and down stream population.

The results of the Seismic studies will provide new evidences on the interrelation between block-structure of the crust and seismic activity, this is of great importance for better understanding of seism-genesis. The final outcome is expected to be of substantial contribution to the practical problem of seismic risk mitigation.

Scientist to published paper ratio and Impact Factor :

Different teams of nearly 60 scientists with expertise in nearly all major branches of earth sciences supported by equal numbers of scientific & technical personnel provide research leadership. The Institute awards visiting fellowships to promote national and international collaboration and research fellowships to students for pursuing Ph. D. in earth sciences.

Research Publications

(April - September 2006)

Specialized services offered :

The Institute provided geohydrological investigations and water quality assessment. It is also recognized by a large number of Universities and Institutions as research centre, and provides support to researchers by providing the library facilities and training in different sample preparation techniques for analysis using sophisticated instruments.

External Cash Flow/scientist

The DST has sanctioned two Sponsored Projects during this period (i) "Geodynamic evolution of the eastern syntaxis" to Dr. N.S. Gururajan, with a grant amount of around Rs. 69 Lakhs, and (ii) "Quaternary climate and tectonics in Ladakh-Karakoram" to Dr. N.R. Phadtare, with a grant amount around Rs. 20 lakhs.

The Institute provides analytical facilities on nominal charges to outside users. During the last six
months, the Institute generated an amount of Rs. 4.00 lakhs involving 2 scientists. The cash flow is of the order of Rs. 2.00 lakhs per scientist.

The Institute provides consultancy services on geo-engineering aspects. During the last six months period, the Institute generated an amount of Rs. 0.36 lakhs through consultancy work.

Total number of on-going collaborative research and technology development projects within India and with foreign partners :

On the Integrated Long Term Project (ILTP) programme with Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, WIHG has integrated program on "Physics of earthquake process and comprehensive analyses of multiparameter observation for precursory research". Under this exchange programme, Prof. Alexander Ponomarev, Institute of Physics of the Earth, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow visited the Institute for a week. From the Institute, Dr. S.K. Chabak and Dr. Naresh Kumar visited Russian Acamedy of Sciences for 21 days in June-July.

The Institute is also having integrated programme on "Automatic detection of Seismic Phases" with University of Akureyri, Iceland. As a part of this programme Prof. Ragnar Stefansson visited Wadia Institute on a 2 months exchange programme.

The Institute is having collaborative programme with France on "Crustal deformation studies associated with Lake Impounding. As part of this programme, Dr. B.R. Arora, Director WHIG, visited the Laboratoire de Geologie de l' Ecole Normale Superieure at Paris, France in September.

The Institute is also having collaborative programme with the International Institute for Geoinformation Sciences and Earth Observation (ITC), Netherlands. The collaboration aims at developing the expertise in Multi-channel Analyses of Shear Wave (MASW) and Resistivity Imaging for Microzonation, Paleoseismicity and shallow surface studies.

Apart from this, Wadia Institute has also signed a MOU with the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), Birbal Sahni Institute of Paleobotany (BSIP), and Govt. of Uttaranchal to take collaborative programmes in the areas of rock magnetic, palaeoclimate and palaeoecological changes, tectonics and sedimentation history in the Precambrian and Upper Palaeozoic-Quaternary succession in the Himalaya (with BSIP), collision dynamics to understand the uniqueness and lateral variability in the mountain building processes as well as addressing problems of seismogenesis of Himalaya (with NGRI) and microzonation of landslides and involvement of WIHG in disaster management and public awareness programme of the Govt. of Uttaranchal. Also with Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO), Chandigarh, wherein WIHG shall provide domain knowledge in the area of landslides and CSIO shall develop an Early Warning System. Partner in DREAM and sharing of expertise in up keep of analytical and seismological instruments.

Adjunct/Visiting Faculty/Research Staff affiliated to Institutions or Research Program :

The Institute has 60 scientists working in various projects defined in the 10th Five Year Plan. The Institute is also supporting one RA, one SRF and four JRF's. In addition to these a number of research scholars and research assistants are working in various sponsored projects of the DST.

Other Information :

The Institute has organized a 12 weeks 'Summer Training-cum-Research programme' for nine post graduate students to generate interest in some specialized branches of applied geosciences in the Himalaya and to stimulate research acumen and aptitude. The major themes included for training are: (i) Seismology, Active Fault Mapping, and (ii) Landslides, Glaciology, Geophysical field studies. The work was carried out in Frontal and Lesser Himalaya of Uttaranchal.

The Institute organized S.P. Nautiyal Memorial Lecture on April 10, 2006, Dr. S.R. Shetye, Director of National Institute of Oceanography, Goa delivered the memorial lecture on "Source region of the 26th December 2004 Tsunami and Indian Tide Gauge Records". Dr. S.K. Gupta, Scientist 'G', Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad delivered the Technology Day lecture on "Studying Patterns, Processes and Functions of Hydrological Cycle Components through Water Isotopes" on May 11, 2006.

The Institute celebrated its 38th Foundation Day on June 29, 2006, the Hon'ble Governor, Uttaranchal, Mr. Sudarshan Agarwal was the Chief Guest on the occasion. The 'Foundation Day Lecture' on 'Water' was delivered by special invitee Prof. V. Rajamani, JNU, New Delhi. The Institute also organized the Foundation Day Seminar on "Emerging Issues in Uttaranchal for the Development of Water Resources".

The Institute has brought out Himalayan Geology vols. 27 (2); Ashmika (Hindi magazine) vol. 12; and Annual Report for 2005-2006 (both in Hindi and English). As a part of Hindi Pakhwara celebrations from September 14-28, 2006, a two day Hindi Karyashala on "Khuli Arthvyavastha aur vigyan: Uttaranchal ke parepekshya mein" was organized on September 14-15, 2006 along with essay, debate and quiz competitions for school children and staff members of the Institute. Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany (BSIP), Lucknow

The Institute is engaged in fundamental and applied research aspects on Palaeobotany. The following are the major five thrust areas:

(i) Precambrian Biotic Events- Research revolves around Exploration and documentation of Early Life records from India through study of microfossils. Clues obtained from the microbial remains have also been used to trace the environmental changes in different epochs in the history of earth. The group has also prepared a Catalogue of Archaean and Proterozoic palaeobiological evidences (stromatolites, microfossils, macrofossils and ichnofossils) recovered from Indian Shield.

(ii) Gondwana Floristics, Palaeoclimate and Palaeoecology relevant to breakup of gondwanaland- The focus of research of this group is on biodiversity of coal forming vegetation in different geologic age, and their correlation to palaeoenvironment based on information generated using coal bearing sedimentary basins. Some of the interesting findings of this group are:

• New plant fossils (silicified ovules/seeds) recorded from the Rajmahal Formation (Jharkhand) having podocarpaceous affinity confirms the palaeo-position of Indian subcontinent during Early Cretaceous period.
• New pteridospermic leaves from Wardha-Godavari, Satpura and Son-Mahanadi basins having similarity with northern flora of Europe and America reconfirms the presence of mixed flora during Late Palaeozoic.
• Fertile axis showing megasporangium discovered for the first time indicates the affiliation of dispersed megaspores with lycopsid group of plant.
• Atlas of spore and pollen from Triassic Succession of India has been prepared. The atlas gives details of morphotaxonomic and stratigraphic information of spores-pollen taxa recorded from the Triassic sequence in different basins of India.

(iii) Biopetrology of coals and its relevance to CBM - This group categorises the coal types and determines the depositional environment of coals and lignites. Following are some significant findings:

• Evaluated coals in terms of macerals/microlithotypes compositions and their characterization for determining the rank from Pachwara Coalfield of Rajmahal Basin and Mailaram area of Godavari Valley.
• Ascertained the maturity of Neyveli lignite based on qualitative characterization of varied lignite macerals.
• Synthesized data on fluorescing coal macerals to characterize the Indian Gondwana coals and Tertiary coals and lignites.
• Prepared a Training Manual for coal petrological studies.

(iv) Palaeobiology of Phanerozoic basins & its bearing on Hydrocarbon potential - Study of floristic biodiversity, palaeoclimate and evolutionary trends; Marine and terrestrial microfossils help in high resolution biostratigraphy, palaeoenvironmental reconstruction, sea level changes and source rock studies.

Some of the significant findings include:

• Elucidated the reproductive strategy, distribution mechanism and energy flow in the ecosystem during the Tertiary Period and also related it to the migratory paths of angiosperms in India through morphotaxonomical study on the plant megafossils and fossil leaf assemblages around Nayveli.
• Fossil impressions studied from the Disang sediments of Wokha District (Nagaland), supports extension of Bay of Bengal hundreds of kms inside during the Middle-Late Eocene.
• Rich and diversified assemblage of plant fossils comprising 26 new species of 13 angiospermous families recovered from Lower-Middle Siwaliks of Darjeeling District (WB).
• Recorded 20 new leaf fossil species from Lower Siwalik sediments exposed in Koilabas area in the Himalayan foot-hills of western Nepal.
• Potential of palynoflora in biostratigraphic dating and correlation evaluated from Tertiary sediments of Kutch Basin, East Coast, Meghalaya-Assam, Mizoram and Tripura. Floral migration, palaeoclimate and depositional environment have been deduced.
• Calcareous algae studied from Early Palaeocene sequence of Cauvery Basin to evaluate its role in the reconstruction of palaeogeography, palaeoecology and palaeobathymetry.
• Prepared the following catalogues: "Catalogue of fossil dinoflagellate cysts from India", Catalogue of fossil calcareous nannoplankton from India', Catalogue of Tertiary spores & pollen from India" and "Catalogue of fossil fungal spores from India".

(v) Quaternary Vegetation, Eustatic Sea Level Changes, Global Climate Change & Anthropogenic Impact- Study of both continental and marine areas for Quaternary Palaeoclimate reconstruction including Indian Monsoon System, Ice Age and past sea level fluctuations and study of archeological sites for understanding human plant relationship are carried out by this group. Some of the significant findings are:

• Pollen records from 1.2 m deep lacustrine profile from Tundabhuj, depict vegetation and climate change in the subalpine belt of Kullu District (HP) during Holocene.
• Pollen assemblage recorded from a 1.75 m deep sediment profile from Tula-Jalda, Shahdol District (MP) has shown the dominance of non-arboreals over arboreals (trees & shrubs) and overall existence of open mixed tropical deciduous forests under a moderately warm and moist climate.
• Palynological studies of bottom samples of sediment profile of Bhagwanpur, Mahanadi Delta, Orissa (BS-1152; ± 30,625 yrs B.P.) exhibit high values of core mangroves along with dinoflagellates cysts and microforaminifera.
• Pollen analysed surface sediments from Margherita and Lekhapani, Tinsukia District (Assam) reflected the existence of tropical deciduous forest. Conifers are represented as the exotic taxa from higher reaches.
• Palyno-chronostratigraphical study in sedimentary soil sections/cores from estuaries and lagoons in the coastal area along the south-east coast of India reveals that mangroves and shoreline migrated to about 18-20 km E since Middle Holocene (7 ka). The change is attributed to delta progradation, climate and hydro-isostatic adjustments influenced by tectonic activity.
• The palaeo-ethnobotanical studies (of seed/fruit remains) from Chalcolithic site Sanchankot, district Unnao (UP) reveal a rich assemblage of field-crop remains (cereals, pulses) suggesting agriculture based ancient plant economy during 1000 B.C. to A.D. 300 in Ganga Plain.
• Prepared tree-ring width chronology of Himalayan Cedar from Kinnaur (HP) spans from AD 1286- 2005. The chronology is highly sensitive to changes in precipitation in the area. The reconstructed data show strong correlation with the sea surface temperature over the Pacific Ocean indicating linkage with the oceanic features.

(vi) Radiocarbon dating- A core Centre for radiocarbon dating facility in the country for Quaternary Palaeoclimate archeological sites is in operation at the institute for providing C14 dating to scientists from BSIP and other institutions & universities.

• Radiocarbon analysis of annual rings of teak tree from central India reveals that the 14C amplitude of the bomb peak during 1964-65 is significantly smaller relative to that observed in similar latitudes in northern hemisphere.
• Recalibration of high vacuum glass system is done by analyzing an international standard (IAEA C3 cellulose) of known 13C at BSIP. The average of 10 measurements yielded a 13C value of - 25.033±0.33 ‰ against the accepted value of -24.91±0.15 ‰. This glass system can be used for processing various kinds of samples, such as sediment organic matter, wood, peat, charcoal, fossil plants etc to determine their carbon isotopic ratio.

Scientist to published paper ratio: 60:25

Impact Factor (as per 2005)

Total Published papers 25- 18 in following Impact Factor Journals

Current Science - 0.728 (8 papers)

Journal of Geological Society of India - 0.96 (7 papers)

Journal of Micropalaeontology (London) - 0.472 (1 paper)

Cretaceous Research - 0.981 (1 paper)

Tropical Ecology - 0.325 (1 paper)

Specialized services offered:

1. Training imparted to research scholars from Universities & Oil Industry scientists;

2. Provided palynological & coal petrological consultancy to Geological Survey of India (Coal Wing), Central Mining Research Institute,

3. Developing palynological/ palynofacies model of Modern Delta System (K-G Basin) for hydrocarbon exploration studies with KDMIPE (ONGC)

4. Prepared a proposal to establish a "National Centre for Fossil Fuel Exploration Research" & "Central Core-Lab Facility" at BSIP under the aegis of Directorate General of Hydrocarbons, New Delhi ( under consideration of DGH)

5. Interacted with Petrotech Society for enhancing Academia-Industry Interface

6. Served as the National radiocarbon dating facility

7. Donated publications and fossil specimens to science departments of colleges and Institutions for dissemination of palaeobotany

External cash flow :

Sponsored Projects (DST, CSIR) : Rs. 12,10,767/=

Sale of Publications: Rs. 31,055/=

Contract Research & Consultancy earned:

Contract Research:

Singareni Colliery Co. Ltd. - Palynology & Coal Petrology, Wardha- Godavari Coal Field

Central Mining Research Institute, Dhanbad: Coal Petrology

Consultancy earned: Rs. 2,26,435/=

Radiocarbon dating facility; SEM facility; Training of Personnel (coal petrology)

On-going Collaborative Research :

(a) Under long term MoU

(b) Other Institutions:

i). With in India

Agharkar Research Institue, Pune- Tertiary Fossil woods from Kerala-Konkan Basin

Department of Geology, Visakhapatnam - Quaternary Palynology of K-G Basin

Department of Geology, Lucknow University- Dinoflagellate cyst & Palynofacies study of Palaeogene of western India.

Department of Ancient Indian History & Archaeology, Lucknow University- Archaeobotanical Studies

Department of Geological Sciences, Gauhati University & G.C. College, Silchar- Palaeogene Calcareous Algae from Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya

Palaeontology Division, Northern Region, GSI, Lucknow- Study of Algal Microflora of Shell Limestone, Mussouri Syncline; Precambrian Microbiota & Tertiary plant fossils.

M.L.K. P.G. College Balrampur, U.P.- Plant Megafossil study of Lower Siwaliks.

IOP, Bhubaneswar- Collaborative work underway for reconstruction of atmospheric radiocarbon activities using tree rings

ii). With foreign partners -

Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (Prof. Cheng-Sen Li) - Tertiary Plant Fossils

UFZ Centre for Environmental Research, Germany (B.W. Scharf), F. García-Rodríguez, Uruguay & M. Mohanti, Utkal Univ., India- Holocene evolution of Chilka Lake, anthropogenic impact and pollution problems

Molecule to Material Science

Research activities relating to Molecular Biology, Biomedical, Sciences, Biotechnology, Quantum Mechanics and Condensed Matter Physics are being pursued through a group of institutions for generation of new knowledge; develop possible applications as well as techniques for inventing new products and processes. Research activities in the areas of Nano and Bio-sciences, is being expanded while, transdisciplinary research in the areas overlapping physical and medical sciences is being encouraged. Thrust is also being laid in enhancement of infrastructure facilities and manpower development through Ph.D programme to carryout front line research. Jawaharlal Nehru Centre For Advanced Scientific Research Jakkur, (JNCASR) Bangalore.

The JNCASR continues to be one of the premier research institutions for higher learning and research in the interdisciplinary and frontier areas of Chemistry and Physics of Materials, Evolutionary and Organismal Biology, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Theoretical Science and Engineering Mechanics.

Targeted research niches and its national significance/intended end users

• To carry out front-line research in selected areas of science and engineering;
• To promote collaborative research with scientists at the Indian Institute of Science and other institutions in the country
• To promote a national and international forum for in-depth discussions on important scientific topics in areas of vital interest to the country at large ;
• To organize periodic winter and summer schools in certain areas, where young talented scholars would be associated;
• To provide opportunities for talented young students to carry out research projects;
• To provide facilities to visiting scholars and faculty from all over India and Abroad to work for extended periods with the faculty of the Centre.
• To publish monographs and reports on frontier and futuristic areas of science as well as of educational value.

The activities planned in different units of the Centre are as follows:

In the Chemistry and Physics of Materials Unit, new chemical approaches to nanostructures and
electronic and mechanical properties of inorganic nanowire-polymer composites, new ways of making metal sulfide nanotubes are being examined besides other research initiatives. In the Chemical Biology Unit focused microwave induced reactions are being attempted. The Education Technology Unit is working towards development of Mathematics and Geography multimedia packages and a geography web site for the primary level. The Condensed Matter Theory Unit continues to concentrate on the area of Strongly Correlated Quantum Many-body Systems. The Evolutionary and Organismal Biology Unit, in its Chronobiology Laboratory proposes to investigate further the multi-oscillatory control of eclosion and oviposition rhythms in D melanogaster and determine the limits of enrainment of the oscillators. The focus of the Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, is on (a) Infectious diseases including Malaria and AIDS (b) Chromatin Remodelling and Transcriptional Regulations in relation to Cancer (c) Developmental Biology and Genetics in relation to Angiogenesis, Deafness and Epilepsy. The Theoretical Sciences Unit is aiming to develop strong research programmes in the field of Computational material design, Multiscale modelling of condensedmatter systems, Computational nanoscience, Quantum phase transitions, Biomolecular simulations and other biologically motivated problems in condensed-matter and statistical physics.

Scientist to published paper ratio

• The Faculty of the Centre published more than 60 scientific papers in reputed international journals during the reporting period. Scientist to published paper ratio is 25:64 (1:2.5) for April - September 2006.

Citation & Impact of published research

• The Average Impact Factor is 3.99.

Specialized services offered

The Centre admitted 25 new students for M.Sc. and one for Integrated Ph D taking the total strength to about 130. Ten students have been awarded Ph D degrees, two M S (Engg.) degree and one M S (Int. Ph D) degree.

The Summer Research Fellowship Programme (130 students), Project Oriented Chemical Education programme (28 students) and Project Oriented Biological Education Programme (10 students) have been highly successful.

Nine research scientists from R & D institutions in the country have been offered Visiting Fellowship for 2006-07 and nine candidates have been offered DST Postdoctoral Fellowship in Nano-Science and Technology for 2006-2007.

Many distinguished lectures were organized. 22 seminars/workshops, 5 Fluid Dynamics Colloquia and 10 Discussion meetings/conferences supported by the Centre were held.

External Cash Flow/scientist

The following Projects have been sanctioned during the period under report :

• Genetic Manipulations and Apicoplast Targeting Studies with Plasmodium Type II FAS proteins, Prof Namita Surolia, sponosred by DBT.
• Setting up of National Facility for "Screening Drugs and their biological effects for Cancer. AIDS and Malaria, Prof Nimita Surolia, Prof Tapas Kumar Kundu and Prof Ranga Uday Kumar, sponsored by DST
• Lattice dynamical and structural study of Be based II-VI Semiconductor alloys, Prof N Chandrabhas, sponsored by IFCPAR
• J C Bose Fellowship, Prof M R S Rao, President, sponsored by DST
• Spectroscopic Investigation of dip pen nanolithography pattern , Indo-Italian Project, Prof C N R Rao and Prof G U Kulkarni
• CSIR Centre of Excellence in Chemistry, Prof C N R Rao, sponsored by CSIR.

The total estimated cost of the above projects is Rs.555.48 lakhs.

Contract research and consultancy earned

• An MoU was signed with University of California for Science and Technology Initiative.
• A proposal for establishment of International Centre for Materials Science was submitted.
• An Agreement of collaboration "TWAS-UNESCO Associateship Scheme at Centres of Excellence in the South" between JNCASR and TWAS has been signed
• Consultancy work for the Honeywell Technology Solutions Lab., Bangalore, for a initial period of six months, has been approved.
• A Subcontract Agreement between Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, New York, and JNCASR has been signed in order to comply with the "NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts

Total number of on-going collaborative research and technology development projects within India and with foreign partners

There are 70 on-going collaborative research and technology projects sponsored by DST, DAE, DBT, CSIR, DUPONT, DRDO, DSERT, ICMR, IFCPAR, INSA, ISRO, MIT, NIHH, NPOL.

Adjunct/Visiting Faculty/Research Staff affiliated to Institution or Research Program

Under the Academic Exchange Programme, several scientists from India and abroad had spent considerable time pursuing research in the centre.

• JNCASR continues to be active in research at the frontiers of Biology and Materials. Recent experiments and simulations have demonstrated that low but not high levels of migration can stabilize the dynamics of fragmented animal populations, opening up interesting new directions for further studies of dynamics of metapopulations.
• Invention of photo responsive organic field effect transistor has been awarded a US patent. National Phase Patent Applications have been filed at USA and Europe for the invention titled Polyisoprenyl Benzophenones as Inhibitors of Histone Acetyl Transferases and Uses Thereof.
• Indian patent complete specification application and International Patent Application (PCT) have been filed for the invention titled: Derivatives of 4, 6-disubstituted 1,2,4- Triazolo-1,3,4-Thiadiazol - a process and uses thereof. By JNCASR and University of Mysore.
• Indian Provisional Patent Applications have been filed for the following new inventions: (a) A Highly Specific Human Polyclonal Beta Actin Antibody and its uses thereof. Inventors: Prof Tapas Kumar Kundu, et al. (b) Polyhydroxy Derivatives of [2,3,7,8-tetra-hydroxyl(1) Benzopyrano(5,4,3,(DE)(1) Benzopyran 5,10-dione) as a novel, specific inhibitors of Histone methyltransferase (HMTase) and its uses thereof.

The Centre's faculty have received a number of national and international recognitions.

A Nano Laboratory with latest state of the art technologies and equipment has been inaugurated by Shri Kapil Sibal, Hon'ble Minister for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Government of India, at the Centre.

Impact Factor of publications during 01.04.2006 to 30.09.2006

Average impact factor of the publications is 3.988.

Centre For Liquid Crystal Research, (CLCR), Bangalore

Targeted Research niches and its National Significance

• Exploration of novel ways to accelerate the thermal back relaxation in photostimulated systems: a path to achieve possible dynamic optical pattern storage
• Complementary effects of UV radiation and frequency of the applied electric field to achieve two frequency operable optical devices
• Dynamic self-organization of a layered phase: a first step to understand the dynamic self-assembly ubiquitously present in nature
• First demonstration of large electric conductivity induced by gold nanoparticles in a nematic liquid crystal environment
• Design and construction of a high pressure cell to measure DC/AC electrical properties of fluid media with an operating range of 0-400 MPa and up to 575 K
• Demonstration of the efficacy of the electrical high pressure cell
• First observation of situations attributable to the coupling of homogeneous and electroconvection modes and resembling the inhomogeneous Freedericksz state. The understanding of this phenomenon assumes significance owing to the fact that many liquid crystal display devices are based on the Freedericksz effect.
• Design & synthesis of dipeptides that are derived from the neutral amino acid residues, and observation of the first biocompatible helical fluid columnar liquid crystal phases.
• Realization of dimers in which an achiral bent-core entity is covalently tethered to cholesterol through odd/even parity alkylene spacer. These dimers show the amorphous blue phase over the longest thermal range ever reported.

Note: These studies are very significant from a fundamental point of view but generally with a bias towards technology

Scientist to published paper ratio: 3.8 (till September)

Citation & Impact of published research :

• Cumulative Impact factor : 44.946
• Average Impact factor : 2.365

Specialized services offered :

• Fab High Resolution Mass Spectrometer for molecular weight upto 6000 Dalton, Differential scanning calorimeter system with sub-ambient cooling assembly, Elemental Analyser for CHN analysis, UV/VIS/ NIR Spectrometer with integrating sphere covering the wavelength range 180-2500nm, Xray Diffraction Equipment, CD Spectrometer for absorbance and Circulation Dichroism Measurements

External Cash Flow / Scientist : Rs.3.19 Lakh / Scientist

Contract research and consultancy earned : Nil

Total number of on-going collaborative research and technology development projects within India and with foreign partners :

• Two projects within India [ SERC and CSIR project]
• Two projects with foreign partners [Indo-Hungary and Indo-Italian project]

Adjunct / Visiting Faculty affiliated to Institution:One Indian Association For The Cultivation Of Science, (IACS), Kolkata

In the department of Solid State Physics, magnetic shape memory alloys involving the magneto-structural transition in some Heusler systems have been investigated. Transport and magnetic properties of self doped manganites and magnetic nanoparticles have been studied. Relaxation dynamics of different nanophases materials grown from glasses and polymers as templates have been studied and a new structural model was developed to interpret the results. Molecular dynamics simulation study of A-DNA decamer, and crystal structures of two peptide compounds and two polymorphic (binuclear) copper complexes have been investigated.

In the department of Materials Science, nanostructured CuInS2 thin films were prepared by a two-stage ILGAR process where the particle radii varied from 6 to 21 nm with annealing. Structure elucidation of a novel diterpene, Farnesiaside, was completed, and synthesis and crystallization of new complexes of thiourea have been undertaken. Inorganic-organic hybrid nanocomposites have been investigated by dispersing SiO2 and SnO2 nanoparticles within the conducting polymer matrix and by intercalation into layered graphite oxide. Doped nanomaterials for photonic applications have been investigated. Novel inorganic and organicinorganic hybrid microporous and mesoporous materials have been invented. Response function of superfluid Fermi gas of ultracold atoms at finite temperature has been calculated. Coherent control of vibrational rotational population transfer in H2 and Li2 by STIHRAP and MPD of HD+ by two-colour laser fields has been investigated.

In the department of Spectroscopy, interesting formation of mono- and di-cationic species of substituted benzimidazoles and also a flip-flop between ionic and zwitterionic species could be observed on pH change. After having doped with optical monomer, good contrast of FLC cell has been achieved. Method for calculating the spectroscopic constants of weakly bound molecules, some novel synthesized rigid thiophene systems containing electron donor and acceptor functionalities were found to behave as future model photovoltaic cells in presence of TiO2 nanoparticles. Spectroscopic methods for the diagnostic determination of high temperature plasmas have been achieved. Ferrocene-doped poly(methyl methacrylate) thin films containing chloroform molecules could be used as photoswitching elements. Size selective photoluminescence has been observed in poly(methyl methacrylate) thin solid films with dispersed silver nanoparticles synthesized by a novel method. Design and fabrication of layer-by-layer sequential adsorption instrument (Project No. IDP/Sen/94/03) financed jointly by DST and a Kolkata based industry named Apex Instrument Company has been successfully completed. Coherent control over molecular dynamics has been achieved which can be used for quantum information processing. A three level lambda system can be used as switch for EIT to EIA and LWI by controlling the probe field intensity. A new analytical method has been developed for the study of ground state property of BEC atoms.

In the department of Theoretical Physics, the stability problem of the Randall Sundrum braneworld has been reexamined and it has been shown that even in the presence of stabilizing bulk fields the instability persists because of back reaction and that a scalar field can stabilize a braneworld only when it has a tachyon like action. The phenomenology of the wino LSP as obtained in the AMSB and some string models have been studied. A new approach to non-equilibrium statistical mechanical problems has been designed by using a fictitious time variable. This helps understand the connection between some growth models and fluid turbulence. Composite overlapping tRNA genes and the mechanism of alternate intron splicing has been successfully treated.

In the Energy Research Unit, nanocrystalline and protocrystalline silicon thin films have been developed and applied in solar cells. Structural and optoelectronic characterisations of the layers as well as the degradation of thin film silicon solar cells have been studied. Computer modelling of N-a-Si:H / P-c-Si front heterojunction and micro-crystalline silicon solar cells have been carried out using an indigenously developed global electricaloptical model. The aim was to find means of improving the open-circuit voltage in these structures. Also development of silicon nanostructures and quantum dots from helium diluted silane plasma has been carried out.

In the department of Biological Chemistry, methylglyoxal the lead compound in anticancer formulation, was shown to be a strong immunomodulator. Different pathways of cell signaling by methylglyoxial like IFN- , iNOS have been studied. Creatine and Creatine kinase have been identified as marker of malignancy in human. Adsorption of mercury from its aqueous solution by Aspergillus versicolor biomass had been found to be most efficient in this respect. The adsorption process followed Langmuir-Freundlich isotherm model. Hilsa fish allergen of molecular mass 50 kDa was purified to homogeneity and its secondary structure in different conditions was evaluated, by CD study in far uv. Molecular understanding of the origin of the chirality in aqueous micelles and its correlation with the proficiency of stereo selective ketone reduction was developed using an efficient and biocompatible methodology where the cationic micellar surface serves as a host. An interesting relationship between the head group size of the surfactant and the activity of interfacially solubilized lipase in w/o microemulsions of cationic amphiphiles has been established for the first time in the field of micellar enzymology.

In the department of Organic Chemistry, in the course of a vigorous programme on Green Chemistry, Indium(I) Iodide promoted cleavage of diphenyl diselenide and subsequent palladium(0)-catalyzed condensation with vinyl selenides was accomplished. Indium(I) Iodide promoted cleavage of dialkyl disulfides and application in Michael addition of resulting thiolate anions to conjugated carbonyl compounds and regioselective ring opening of epoxides were studied. Indium triflate catalyzed rearrangement of arylsubstituted cyclopropyl carbinols to 1,4-disubstituted 1,3-butadienes was established as a viable transformation. Zinc tetrafluoroborate catalysed simple and efficient synthesis of highly substituted pyrroles was achieved by a solvent-free reaction. Intramolecular cyclization of functionalized bromo-alkynes to substitutedtetrahydrofurans was carried out using indium(I) iodide as a radical initiator. Catalysis by ionic liquids was demonstrated with cyclopropyl carbinyl rearrangements catalyzed by [pmIm]Br under organic solvent free conditions. Towards synthesis of complex molecules and developing methodologies to assemble complex structural framework, a synthesis of heliannuol C, an important allelochemical from cultiver sunflowers, incorporating a benzoxepane ring system has been completed. This involved a novel application of the Bargellini condensation to coumarins to furnish o-carboxyvinylphenoxy isobutyric acids. An expedient synthesis of carbocyclic nucleosides, potential antiviral agents, using ring-closing metathesis as a key step was accomplished. Stereocontrolled synthesis of pisiferol, pisiferal, oxoferruginol and shonanol was completed. New and improved synthetic methods were developed for benzothianopyrans and radical cyclizations were employed to synthesize trisubstituted tetrahydrofurans. A mild and efficient allylation of aldehydes mediated by titanium(III) chloride has been developed. In addition, evidence for stereocontrolled formation excimer in naphthalene analogues of Chalcone has been obtained. New pyrazole-based ligands promoted palladium-catalyzed coupling reactions under mild condition was developed. Water-soluble Fischer carbene complexes were shown to be an excellent reagent for synthesis of metal nanoparticles on protein surface.

In the department of Physical Chemistry, MFE on steady state luminescence from Pyrene-DMA RP system has been used as a tool to explore the heterogeneous environment of various aqueous and nonaqueous reverse micellar (RM) systems. The femtosecond up-conversion facility setup under the IRHPA program of DST has started functioning and this has been used to study ultrafast solvation and excited state proton transfer (ESPT) processes. Using the picosecond set up, anisotropy decay in cyclodextrins and detected formation of a nano-tube aggregates have been studied. The effect of neutral, cationic and anionic micellar environments on the ground and excited state proton transfer reaction of salicylidine-3,4,7-methylamine (SMA) has been studied by steady state and time resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. An algorithm for direct numerical simulation of dichotomous noise to solve Langevin dynamics has been established with applications to ratchets and other aspects in classical systems. A proposal for a new phenomenological model to understand simultaneous glycolytic and insulin oscillations in -cells and how glycolysis provides a mechanism for pulsatory insulin secretion in the light of basic experimental findings has been an important offshoot of our work on nonlinear dynamics of glycolysis. Parallel GA based algorithm has been developed to compute eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a Hamiltonian matrix through an energy dependent partitioning method. The properties of single carrier 2-D quantum dots in the presence of a Gaussian or an exponential impurity (scatterer) have been studied theoretically with a configuration-interaction type of approach with special emphasis on level spacings distribution. Coupled electron-pair approximation (CEPA)-like various approximants to the parent spin-adapted state-specific multi-reference coupled cluster (SS-MRCC) theory which demand on the inclusion of EPV terms to various degree has been proposed. An inexpensive 2W FM RF generator in the VHF band to be used to study the radiofrequency magnetic field effect on the RP system has been fabricated.

The department of Inorganic Chemistry is involved in many frontier areas of research in synthesis, structure, properties and reactivity of inorganic molecules. The major areas of scientific research include Supramolecular Chemistry and hydrogen bonding interaction in transition metal complexes; Coordination Chemistry including synthesis, characterization and magnetic properties of novel transition metal polynuclear compounds, homo- and hetero-metallic clusters capable of exhibiting ferromagnetism and extended interaction, exchange coupled polynuclear metal clusters in connection with single molecule magnetic materials; organic transformations involving metallo-organic transformations, small molecule activation by transition metal complexes, oxygen atom transfer chemistry of high-valent metal oxo complexes, bio-inspired catalysis, metallo-organic domino reactions; Bioinorganic Chemistry including design and synthesis of functional models for various metallo- enzymes, dioxygen activation by model complexes of nonheme iron enzymes, electron transfer and valence tautomerism in coordination complexes.

In the Polymer Science Unit, the triblock copolymer poly(methyl methacrylae)-b-poly(lauryl methacrylate)-b-poly(methyl methacrylate) which is a potential thermoplastic elastomer has been synthesized by the ATRP route. The PVF2 - camphor gels were dried vacuum and also by solvent replacement method. The porosity of the resulting porous materials were studied by mercury intrusion porosometry, N2 adsorption porosometry and collapsing of pores on vacuum drying was observed. Polyaniline - clay gel nanocomposites with dinonyl napthyl disulphonic acid (DNNDSA) as dopant has been prepared. Both exfoliated and interacalated clay structures with 600% increase in storage modulus are produced. Nanocomposite of multiwalled carbon nanotubes with poly(3-hexyl thiophene) has showed enhanced mechanical and electroactive properties. Spongy gold nanocrystals with high surface area and flour-like silver nanocrystals have been prepared by modified citrate reduction technique. Spongy gold nanocrystals shows high catalytic activity. Peptide-GNPs have also been assembled into 1D, 2D and 3D structural materials just simple varying the pH of the suspension

In the DST Unit on Nanoscience, frontier research is being continued in interdisciplinary areas with involvement of around ten faculty members from different departments / units. The major thrust has been on synthesis and characterization of a wide variety of nanocomposites. Fifty seven publications has been made in refereed journals during the present year.

On the general front, there has been a significant increase in the procurement of sophisticated equipments under the umbrella of the Central Scientific Services. The resources of the library have been augmented with consolidation of print collections and a progressive increase in the electronic versions. New initiatives in industry-institute linkages have been undertaken.

Institutional Performance Indicators:

No. of papers published: 341 ( including the ones in press)

No. of patents: 2

No. of PhD awarded: 39

Prizes and Awards: 12, which includes TWAS Fellowship (1), TWAS Prize (1), Fellowship of the National Academy of Sciences, Allahabad (1), B.M. Birla Science Prize in Chemistry (1), Ramanna Fellowship (3), JSPS Invitation Fellowship Award (1), CRSI Silver Medal (1), R.P. Memorial Lecture Award (1), Kishore Memorial Lecture Award (1), MRSI Medal (1).

Science Applications for Well Being

Science and Technology plays a crucial role in our daily life. While, some of the institutions are striving towards development of appropriate technologies to meet the health care needs of the country, certain other group is working for bringing betterment in our daily life conditions. Development of Biomaterials and Devices at Sri Chitra at Thiruvananthapuram, Nanosilver for water purification and TiO2 coated tiles for anti-bacterial applications at ARCI, Hyderabad, development microbial technologies for bio-remediation of chemo-pollutants, synthesis of nanoparticles for application in health care, identification of microbial products of industrial value, improvement of crops using molecular techniques, being pursued at Agarkar Research Institute, Pune are some examples in the area of health and nutrition. Initiatives like fabrication and development of prototypes of 1.2 kW PEM fuel cell, application of PEM fuel cells in electric cars, UPS / Emergency power systems, development of corrosion resistance of MAO coatings, overall reduction in automobile weight through the use of advanced high strength steel in TIFAC-CAR project are aimed at using S&T for creating better living conditions.

Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute For Medical Sciences & Technology, (SCTIMST) Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala)

The mandate of the Institute is to develop appropriate technologies to meet the health care needs of the country and initiate training and research programmes integrating biomedical technology and health sciences, while demonstrating high standards of patient care in medical specialities. The Institute therefore has a Biomedical Technology (BMT) Wing for the R & D activities, a tertiary care Hospital for cardiovascular, thoracic and neurological diseases, and the Achutha Menon Centre for health sciences studies for research and training in public health. A summary of the important achievements in the last one year are given below:

Biomedical Technology Development:

The expansion work under the Vision-2020 programme gained momentum with the commencement of building construction at the Biomedical Technology Wing (BMT) campus. Purchase of major equipments and recruitment of manpower progressed steadily. Two technology transfer agreements with Indian companies and an agreement with public sector Company for co-development of medical devices was signed .The initiative on "Tissue Engineering" gained momentum with three new projects. The commissioning of major equipments like the confocal microscope and flowcytometer has enabled high quality research to be initiated in this emerging area.

Major Highlights of technology activities

• Technology Transfer agreement signed for transfer of technology of single solution bonding agent for dental applications to M/s. Anabond Stedman Research Pharma Ltd., (ASPR) Chennai
• The Technology of Hydoxyapatite (HAP) and Bioactive Bioglass (HABG) bone graft materials were licensed to M/s Basic Healthcare Products Private Limited, Punjab
• An agreement for a joint collaborative project to develop a hormone releasing intrauterine system was signed with Hindustan Latex Ltd., Trivandrum

Product/Process and its status:

(1) The Centrifugal blood pump moved into the technology proving phase with an industrial partner SIDD Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd., for scaling up.

(2) Hemoconcentrator development moved further with the development of the injection moulds being completed by the industrial partner SIDD Life sciences Ltd., Chennai

(3) Improved Tilting Disc Heart Valve reached preclinical animal evaluation stage and the clinical trials are expected to begin in 2007. M/s. TTK Healthcare Ltd is the industrial partner in this major project.

(4) Project aimed at development of a cost effective Coronary Stent system, both bare metal stents and drug eluting stents, is sponsored under the NMITLI scheme of CSIR. The design of the first version of the stent has been completed.

(5) Five technologies comprising dental composites, bonding agents and glass filler were transferred to Anabond Stedman Limited, and the dental composites have entered the market.

(6) The Radio-opaque Glass filler, which was originally imported, has been indigenised with the development of its know-how and transfer to the industry.

(7) Clinical evaluation of bioactive ceramic composites for various applications is in progress at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Cochin.

(8) The clinical evaluation of a bilayer HAP burr-hole button for cranioplasty was completed by the Department of Neurosurgery of the institute hospital.

(9) Polyurethane based orthopaedic casting tape and potting compound programme made good progress in using indigenously available polyurethane raw materials and the potting trials are underway to evaluate its properties and suitability.

(10) Wound Dressing: Dynamic Techno Medicals Pvt. Ltd, Aluva is in the process of getting the approval of the Drug Controller General of India for the Chitosan Wound Dressing before commencing production and market release. The silverised Chitosan dressing has been developed with enhanced antibacterial activity and the product will be ready for clinical evaluation.

(11) Oral Insulin Delivery: The development of nanoparticle based oral insulin project under the NMILT programme of CSIR made good progress. The know-how for the nanoparticle formulation was transferred to USV Ltd., Mumbai for further scale-up and extended pre-clinical evaluation to establish its safety.

(12) Vascular graft: The development of a natural polymer coating for reducing the water permeability of vascular grafts made substantial progress. Pilot product of 50 grafts in four sizes aimed at preclinical long-term animal studies is in progress.

(13) Fibrin Glue: With the completion of the validation process for the viral inactivation methods, the Fibrin Glue project has been completed satisfactorily and the technology transfer to the industrial partner ATMRF, Ahmedabad is ready.

(14) Thrombin: Preclinical data on the use of human thrombin with fibrin glue has been compiled and clinical trials will be initiated after obtaining the Ethics Committee clearance.

(15) Anti-Viper Venom: Lethality dose (LD50) of viper venom was determined in rat models. Antibodies purified from chicken egg yolk raised against viper venom have been tested for its efficacy to neutralize the effects of en-venomation in animal models.

(16) Recombinant transformation growth factor alpha: The process of purifying the protein to 99% for clinical application and verification of the healing process in diabetic rats are in progress.

(17) Disposable ECG electrodes: Prototype electrodes have been tested as per the AAMI international standard. Biological safety evaluation is being carried and clinical trials are expected to commence soon.

(18) Artifact free breathing monitor: This project made good progress with the development of dual-channel dual-frequency hardware. The work in progress involves fabrication of a stand alone-breathing monitor and evaluation of its performance on volunteers.

(19) Early detection of cervical cancer: The probe and the data acquisition system required for the pilot clinical trial was procured from the University of Sheffield, UK - one of the collaborating partners of this project. The software used in this system was developed at the Institute. The system has been installed at the Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai and the pilot study is expected to be initiated very soon.

(20) A DBT funded project for the development of an in vitro pyrogen test kit has been completed. Validation of the kit for its reproducibility and repeatability is underway.

(21) The technology for the "Field Kit for Testing Antibiotic Sensitivity of Mastitic Milk in dairy animals" has been transferred to Veterinary Biological Institute, Department of Animal Husbandry, Govt. of Kerala. The production of the first batch of 500 kits is at an advanced stage and release for extended field trials is underway.

Hospital Services:

All efforts were made to ensure good quality care at minimum cost to patients. Special clinics for cardiac dysarhythmias, sleep disorders and pregnant women with epilepsy were among the new initiatives started last year. Computerization of hospital services received a major fillip. The infrastructure of the hospital was further strengthened and upgraded to provide efficient and cost-effective support for patient care. A collaborative programme on homograft heart valve was initiated with Medical College, Trivandrum as a first step towards setting up an organ bank.

It was decided to further enhance and extend free and subsidized care to a greater number of patients from April 2006. The Telemedicine Services were started on a pilot mode. A neurologist and a cardiologistare available on alternate days to provide consultation to the patients visiting District and a few Taluk hospitals in Kerala. Our hospital is one of the tele-specialist centers in the Tele-health and Medical Education project funded by Indian Space Research Organization and the Government of Kerala, which is linked to Government Medical Colleges, District Hospitals and a few Taluk Hospitals in Kerala. The network can be utilized for tele-consultation, tele-education, virtual classroom teaching, connectivity to national and international institutes and live transmission of surgeries performed.

Some of the important hospital statistics are:

(a) Sanctioned bed strength: 239
(b) New Patients: >13200
(c) Out Patients: >89,000
(d) Admissions: >8300
(e) Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery: > 1700
(f) Neuro Surgery: >1300
(g) Interventional Radiology Procedures: >375
(h) Invasive and Interventional Cardiology Procedures: > 2700
(i) Total Epilepsy surgery done so far : 797
(j) Movement Disorder Clinic attendance: >1150
(k) Stroke Clinic attendance: >1400
(l) Epilepsy Clinic attendance: >4500

Academic Activities:

The Institute, as a University, currently offers 23 academic (diploma, postgraduate, doctoral and postdoctoral) courses in medical sciences, biomedical engineering and technology, basic sciences and public health. All academic programmes continued to attract students in significant numbers from all over India and for the MPH course, from other countries as well.

Projects undertaken - 80
Patents granted - 13
Books published - 15
Publications in Journals - 130

The Institute played host to a number of international conferences, including the Indo-US Flowcytometry wet workshop and the Association of Commonwealth Universities' Council meeting.

The Achutha Menon Centre for Health Studies (AMCHSS) continued to provide consultancy services to regional, national and international agencies. Several national and international collaborative research programmes on non-communicable diseases, tobacco cessation and the social and mental health consequences of tsunami and other disasters are progressing satisfactorily. Agharkar Research Institute, (ARI), Pune.

The Institute focuses on research in various branches of life sciences and is primarily engaged in developing microbial technologies for bio-remediation of chemo-pollutants, synthesis and application of nanoparticles in medicine, identifying microbial products of industrial value, improvement of crops using conventional and molecular techniques, understanding the nutritional status of various socio-economic classes and devising appropriate interventions to study their effectiveness in combating nutritional problems. In addition, the basic studies include vertebrate developmental biology using chick model, fungal biology, biodiversity and bio-prospecting.

Major scientific achievements and highlights

Crop improvement

In the area of crop improvement, it has been noticed that a population of 0.5 million plants/ha, of soybean plant, produced significantly higher yield than lower plant population levels. 100% organic management system proved to be beneficial than 100% inorganic management system.

Demand for the recently released durum wheat variety MACS 3125 is increasing in the peninsular zone due to its high yielding. Recently notified wheat variety MACS-6145 possess excellent grain quality and resistance and recommended for NEPZ under rainfed conditions.

DNA typing of cultivated grape germplasm of more than 100 seeded and seedless varieties was carried out for 19 microsatellite loci and the observed allele sizes for each variety were determined.

Microbial technology

Field scale trial of ARI developed groundwater arsenic removal technology had been done through commissioning of five plants in Kaurikasa and Moreithitola, district Rajnandgaon, Chattisgarh. The plants are being operated efficiently for the past 4 months with consistent performance. Treated water is arsenic free and conforms to prescribed water quality standards.

Microbiological methods were developed for the synthesis of semiconductor and transition metal nanoparticles that were evaluated for different applications. 'Swarna bhasma' preparation synthesized according to standard Ayurvedic protocols was characterized using Modern Analytical Techniques.

Anaerobic degradation of Adsorbable Organic Halides (AOX) present in pulp & paper industry wastewater using anaerobic filters showed 88-90 % degradation at 28 mg/L AOX and 30-80% at 42 mg/L AOX. Acetate (1g/L) and glucose (1g/L) significantly improved AOX degradation under anaerobic conditions.

Bench-scale studies were carried out on bioremediation of High Melting Explosive (HMX) wastewater containing high concentration of nitrate, acetate and traces of nitrobodies. Yeast cultures isolated from soil were found to remove 40% nitrate from the wastewater at initial concentration of 50 g/l within a week.

Production of dehairing enzyme was carried out in 100 L fermenter. The enzyme dehaired European cow hide successfully into a smooth and silky pelt (Fig. 2).

Thermolysin enzyme catalyzing condensation of two amino acids into aspartame, an artificial sweetener, was produced using Thermoactinomyces thalpophilus and biochemically characterized.

Production of antimicrobial compound from Thermoactinomyces thalpophilus was optimized. The compound was found to be active against two strains of Vancomycin resistant strains of S. aureus, nine strains of Vancomycin intermediate S. aureus and two strains of Vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecalis. Identification of the compound is continued.

Antimicrobial activity of probiotics (lactic cultures) was demonstrated against enteropathogens.

Curing of multidrug resistance in bacteria was studied using plant derived naphthoquinones such as Plumbagin.

Nutritional studies

Odds ratios for age-sex adjusted prevalence of hypertension showed that obesity or presence of parental history and hypertension indicated their synergistic influence.

BMI cutoff obtained from Receiver Operating Characteristic implied that parental history could be an important aid to develop preventive strategy for timely and early screening of individuals at risk of hypertension in many Asian populations with similar settings.

Early life under-nutrition (< 3 yrs) and rapid catch up indicated risk of dyslipidemia and BP among rural children; and stunting in early life was associated with short adult height, short leg length, and poor development of vital organs & may have adverse effects on development of vascular system.

Impact of various social actions on hemoglobin status & weight gain was evaluated in case of pregnant women. Women who delivered in the second year (GR II) had greater exposure to social actions than who delivered in the first year of study (GR I). Neonatal weights (around 3-5 months of age) of children for GR II women (5.28 ± 0.34 Kg) were significantly higher as compared to that for GR I women (5.12 ± 0.28 Kg). Improving the Hb status of pregnant women shows beneficial effect in terms of better lactation performance resulting in better neonatal growth.

Experimental nutrition studies showed that three weeks' supplementation of 100g green leafy vegetables prepared with 10g oil resulted in significant increase in plasma beta-carotene (51%) and hemoglobin (9%). Supplementing beta-carotene from spirulina increased hemoglobin (11%), and plasma zinc (14%).

A statistical model for predicting zinc bioavailability from cereal-based vegetarian meals using relative proportion of nutrients, non-nutrients and their interactive effects was developed.

Yogic classification of foods as sattvic, rajasic and tamasic was found to be significantly correlated with micronutrient density (r=0.533, p=0.0001) and fat density of foods (r=-0.51, p=0.0001). Practice of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga improved antioxidant capacity and anxiety scores.

Biodiversity Studies

Plant biodiversity

A nutracetical product has been developed from wild and edible fruits of Ziziphus (Ber) and assessed for its prebiotic, micronutrient and anti-oxidant potential.

The identification keys were developed for ten inflorescence/flower raw-drugs used for compound formulations by pharmaceutical companies by employing exomorphic, organoleptic and microscopic characters.

Quality standard monographs for total 17 medicinal plants were developed.

Out of ten species of the genus Graphis discovered, seven are new to science and three are recorded for the first time from India.

Occurrence of 48 species in the lichen family Physciaceae (Figs. 4,5) has been recorded from Maharashtra of which the genera Diplotomma Hyperphyscia, Phaeophyscia, Physcia and Physconia have been recorded for the first time.

Live cultures of 50 interesting fungi were identified and added to culture collection as a part of conservation of mycodiversity.

Microbial diversity

Under All India Co-ordinated project on Taxonomy - Bacteria and Archaea, three isolates of thermophilic actinomycetes from Lonar lake were identified as Thermoactinomyces thalpophilus by 16S rRNA sequencing.

44 isolates of aerobic bacteria from Lonar lake have been deposited in MACS Collection of Microorganisms (MCM) and their 16S rRNA sequences submitted to NCBI Gene Bank.

Bacterial diversity with special emphasis on iron- and sulfur- oxidizers was investigated in acid mine drainage and ore samples from Malanjkhand using PCR based DNA fingerprinting techniques, TTGE.

For characterization of methanogenic archaea from Lonar lake, the complete 16S rDNA sequencing of isolate LH2, LA2, LA5, LA7 and LM1 was carried out.

Natural product chemistry

The attractant and repellent properties of the leaf extract of an Indian medicinal plant Swertia densifolia, commonly known as 'Chirayata' towards Indian honeybees Apis florea were demonstrated. It was observed that the formulations of low concentrations were repellent towards the honeybees while those of higher concentration exhibited attractant properties.

Examination of crude propolis and its extract, a beehive product obtained from Indian honeybees were found to possess anti-oxidant properties.

Developmental biology

Established the existence of structural and functional interactions between the cell surface and the cytoskeleton, from early stage of evolution, and the role of MF and MT in the maintenance of various features of the cell surface in Pelmatohydra oligactis by exposing it to cytochalasin B (CB) and taxol and observing under scanning electron microscopy. The diploblastic hydra is one of the earliest animals that exhibit a definite body plan (Fig. 6). The results clearly demonstrate that the dynamic relationship between the cell surface (Fig. 7) and the cytoskeleton was established very early in evolution as a prelude to the complex processes of morphogenesis observed in the vertebrate embryo.

Geology and palaeontology

Study on fossil monocotyledons from Deccan Intertrappeans has been pursued with emphasis on aerial mantle roots showing affinity with palms and woody members of Poaceae. Palichnological analyses from the Neogene rocks of Kathiawar reveal that ichnofossil bearing horizons are irregularly distributed and diversity is limited. Non-pollen palynomorphs from Quaternary deposits of west coast of India have helped ascertaining the paleoecological changes during Late Pleistocene-Holocene. The reworking of sediments with the help of foraminifera enabled to interpret the depositional environment of a Lower Palaeolithic horizon at a prehistoric site in Athirampakkam, Tamil Nadu.

Awards

Dr. Shobha Rao, Head, Division of Animal Sciences received the National Award for 'Women's Development through Application of Science & Technology' for the year 2005 and was felicitated by Shri Kapil Sibal, Minister for Science & Technology and Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India, New Delhi.

Diamond Jubilee

The ARI celebrated its Diamond Jubilee year beginning 1 October 2005. The celebrations concluded on 9 December 2006. A number of scientific programmes like workshops, Conferences and Trainings were organized during this period.

Other Information

Research papers published in journals: 19
Research papers presented in Conferences: 27
Patent applications filed: 3
PCT applications filed: 1
Awards of PhD Degrees: 3 International Advanced Research Centre For Powder Metallurgy And New Materials (ARCI), Hyderabad

Achievements during April 2006 to December 2006, and plans during January 2007 to March 2007 with respect to each of the centers at ARCI are given below:

Centre for Nanomaterials

Nano-Silver for Antibacterial Applications:

The performance of nanosilver-coated candle filters developed by ARCI, installed at several villages for six months through the Byrraju Foundation for drinking water disinfection, has been satisfactory.

Nano-Tungsten Carbide Powders for Fuel Cell Application:

Nano-Tungsten carbide powders have been tried for fuel cell electrodes and ARCI's Centre for Fuel Cell Technology (CFCT) has found the performance of these powders satisfactory.

Application Development for Heat Pipe Heat Sinks Applications:

ARCI has designed 1 KW heat pipe heat sink, assisting its technology receivers 'Capri Cables' in trial supply to BHEL

Know-How Development Agreement with Resil Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore:

ARCI is planning to initiate work to optimize following applications after signing Know-How development agreement with Resil Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore:

• Nano- Silver for anti-bacterial textile applications
• Nano- Silver for latex applications
• Nano- Zinc Oxide for UV absorption in textiles
• Nano-Titanium Dioxide for self-cleaning antibacterial applications in textiles

Development of Anti-bacterial Nanosilver Suspensions or Nanosilver-Coated Powders for Catheter Applications

ARCI is initiating work on Development of Anti-bacterial Nanosilver Suspensions or Nanosilver-Coated Powders for Catheter Applications after signing a know-how development agreement with Relisys Medical Devices Limited

Centre for Engineered Coatings

Micro Arc Oxidation (MAO) Technology:

ARCI has signed Agreements for transfer of Micro Arc Oxidation (MAO) technology with 4 companies located in different parts of the country, offering each of them state-wide exclusivity. ARCI has also supplied the prototype units, successfully integrated and commissioned the MAO coating deposition systems at three technology receivers' sites. In response to enquiries from abroad, efforts were also initiated to establish different MAO applications for M/s NEKEN, France and M/s SPUTTEK, Canada. M/s NEKEN, France has reported that the ARCI's MAO coatings outperformed the coatings provided by other global competitors. ARCI plans to further develop innovative applications and transfer them subsequently to the MAO technology receivers. Studies to extend utility of MAO technique to Mg and its alloys are also in progress.

Cold Spray Coatings:

Studies to optimize the influence of various process parameters for copper coatings on aluminium as well as heat treatment studies on copper coatings for use in high conductivity applications are ongoing. Indian patent for the cold spray process has been awarded. A facility for gun and job manipulation using a 6- axis robot is to be shortly established.

Detonation Spray Coating (DSC) Technology:

DSC system was commissioned at the site of technology receiver, M/s. SVX Powder M Coating Technologies at Delhi. ARCI shall continue to provide technical support such as development of new coatings and applications to all 4 technology receivers.

ARCI has completed installation and commissioning of the 2nd Detonation Spray Coating (DSC) system at Sai Surface Coating Technologies, Hyderabad (Technology receiver for DSC).

Electro Spark Coating (ESC):

The Know-how for manufacturing advanced ESC units has been transferred to M/s Bharadwaj e- Technologies Pvt. Ltd. Assistance/training is being provided to the company to initially assemble 5 ESC nits. Patent application for ESC technology has been filed in India. Efforts are being made to file the patent in USA patent office.

Centre for Ceramic Processing

Calcium Aluminate Cement (High Alumina), Low Alumina Cement, Sintered Mullites and Furnace Sealant:

ARCI is developing know how for the production of Calcium aluminate cement (high alumina), low alumina cement, sintered mullites and furnace sealant for Sharada Ceramics Pvt Ltd (SCPL), Chennai. Production parameters for Calcium aluminate cement (high alumina), low alumina cement, furnace sealant have been optimized. 1 kg batch of each of the above materials has been tested and accepted by SCPL. Sintered mullite grain production trials are in progress. To complete the technology transfer, ARCI shall demonstrate the commercial batch production in three consecutive trials at SCPL.

PTC Disc for Thermal Relay Application:

ARCI is developing PTC disc for thermal relay application for M/s. RANKO Advanced Ceramic Sinters India, Hyderabad. ARCI has already provided the company samples for field trials and is awaiting feedback regarding their performance.

Based on the feedback from the technology receiver, attempts will be made to stabilize the electrode on the PTC disc using various coating techniques.

Honeycomb based Molten Metal Filters:

ARCI has signed an Agreement for Transfer of Technology to manufacture Honeycomb based molten metal filters with M/s N R Industries, Nashik (Maharashtra). Work related to transfer of process know how for the production of cordierite-Mullite and ZrO2 spinel based filters has been initiated. Samples for market sensitization have been handed over to the company.

Center for Laser Processing of Materials (CLPM)

CLPM carried out R&D towards application of laser welding, laser drilling and laser surface treatment processes in Automotive, Aerospace and Rail Transport sectors

Welding:

The high beam quality/low maintenance industrial CO2 laser welding facility recently integrated indigenously combined with the existing pulsed Nd: YAG laser substantially expanded the laser welding capability of ARCI and probably of the country. A substantial number of welding process development and weldability studies have been carried out, such as:

• Understanding technological issues in welding of dissimilar thickness steel sheets for development of Tailor Welded Blank (TWB) technology in India;
• Welding of Ti-6Al-4V and Maraging Steel plates for aerospace applications;
• Welding of martensitic / duplex / ferritic stainless steels for possible application in the boiler and pipeline industries

Drilling:

Laser drilling process has been developed for fine hole drilling in aeroengine components like high pressure turbine nozzle guided vane and thermal barrier coated shroud segment and the first prototypes delivered. Some problems related to burrs on the exit side are being addressed.

Center for Carbon Materials

The following progress has been made during the period of this report:

• Synthesis of Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes through arc discharge set up.
• Optimization of Process parameters for large-scale synthesis of Carbon Nanotubes.
• Samples were supplied to various institutes & organization for exploring various applications of carbon nanotubes.

Activities planned for the period January to March 2007 include the following:

• Effect of Graphite types on the synthesis of carbon nanotubes.
• Synthesis of Single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT).
• Development of Polymer Composites from the Carbon nanotubes.

Centre for Fuel Cell Technology

Centre for Fuel Cell Technology has been working on developing Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel cell (PEMFC) technology for use in

(a) UPS 204

(b) Decentralized Power Generation

(c) Transportation

The following progress has been made during the period of this report:

• A process know -how developed for making fuel cell electrodes was scaled up from 330 sq. cm to 770 sq.cm.
• A semi automation process has been implemented for making Gas Diffusion Layer (GDLs) used in the electrodes using a screen printing machine. This development has reduced to the time taken to make the GDLs from 15 days to 5 days.
• A novel low cost membrane based reactant humidifier has been designed and fabricated. These units are import substitutes.
• Process know how has been developed for making bipolar plates from exfoliated graphite which would help in reducing the stack weight and cost of this component in fuel cell by nearly 50% This method is amenable for mass production.
• A 1kW fuel cell stack was successfully integrated with a UPS developed by M/s Alacrity Electronics , the industrial partner in this project.
• A grid independent 1kW PEM fuel cell system developed and tested. The control circuitry using a PLC has been developed for this purpose.
• 1kW stack which is air-cooled has been developed and is undergoing tests in the lab for use in electric vehicle.
• A 3 kW fuel cell stack (1st Generation) operating on hydrogen and air (oxygen) and water cooled for stationary application was designed, assembled and tested.
• A Non Noble metal catalyst (tungsten carbide based) has been successfully tested for use as anode catalyst in PEMFC cell. Work under progress to scale up the electrode to large areas using this catalyst.

The work Plan for the period January 2007 to March 2007 includes the following:

• Design of 5 kW fuel cell stack (1st Generation) for stationary application.
• Assembly and testing of 2 or 3 1kW stacks made from Exfoliated graphite sheet bipolar plates.
• Integration of 1kw air-cooled stack in electric vehicle.
• Replacement of PLC used in control system by other simpler micro controllers.

Patents:

i. K. Hembram, T. N. Rao and R. Sundaresan, "An improved process for the preparation of doped zinc oxide nanopowder useful for the preparation of varistors and an improved process for the preparation of varistors employing the said nanopowder" Patent Application No. 1669/DEL/2006; Date of filing 20/ 07/06

ii. K. S. Dhathathreyan, N. Rajalakshmi, and T. N. Rao, "An Improved process for preparing nanotungsten carbide powder" Patent application being filed.

iii. An improved process for the preparation of exfoliated graphite separator plates useful in fuel cells, the plates prepared by the process and a fuel cell incorporating the said plates, Patent No. 1206/DEL/2006.

iv. An Improved hydrophilic membrane useful for humidification of gases in fuel cell and a process for its preparation, Patent No. 1207/DEL/2006.

v. An improved test control system useful for fuel cell stack monitoring and controlling, Patent No. 1989/ DEL/2006, Complete specification filed on 12th Jan 2007.

vi. An improved process for preparing nano tungsten carbide powder useful for fuel cells, - Patent No. 81/ DEL/2007 A Hydrophilic membrane based humidifier useful for Fuel Cells, Patent No. 95/DEL/2007. Vigyan Prasar

Vigyan Prasar was set up as an autonomous organization for taking up large-scale science popularization tasks in the country. The primary objective of Vigyan Prasar (VP) is to promote and propagate-as widely as possible-scientific and rational outlook in the society. To achieve these, its efforts go beyond mere dissemination of information to a conscious attempt at inculcating scientific temper among the people. Major Scientific Achievements and Highlights during the year 2006-2007 are described below.

Publication Programme

Publication programme of Vigyan Prasar has emerged as one of its major activities. Some 130 titles have been published under different series till date. VP is bringing out publications in different Indian languages besides English and Hindi. During the year, VP has brought out five titles. Ten more titles are in different stages of printing. Two titles have been translated in Telugu. Reprints of eight titles have been brought out during this period. Vigyan Prasar has been documenting the science popularization efforts in the last 100 years in various Indian languages in the past.

Vigyan Prasar has brought out a book on Professor Yash Pal, an eminent scientist, educationist and science communicator titled "Yash Pal: A Life in Science"

The book was released by H.E President of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam on the occasion of Professor Yash Pal's 80th birthday held at Indian National Science Academy in New Delhi on 26 -28 November 2006.

Vigyan Prasar has been bringing out a monthly newsletter "Dream 2047" in English and Hindi. The present circulation of the newsletter is 49,000.

H.E. President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam releasing the book "Yash Pal: A Life in Science"

Vigyan Prasar Information System (VIPRIS)

VIPRIS caters to the needs of the users using information technology through internet, interactive CDROMs, databases. VP has its own web portal (www.vigyanprasar.gov.in) which is being regularly updated. The website gets 500-600 hits per day. Vigyan Prasar organizes online chat sessions on its website. Three chat sessions were conducted on the website during August, September and November 2006. The VP website has a discussion forum for answering questions and exchanging comments on various issues related to science and technology. Most of the publications of Vigyan Prasar are now available online in Digital Library. Users can register, download and print them free of cost by logging on to the website and clicking on "Digital Library".

An updated version of the CD-ROM on VP's monthly newsletter "Dream 2047" from the period 1998 to 2005 has been prepared. The Hindi version is under preparation. The CDs on "Physicists" and "Atomic Energy in India" are in the final stages of completion.

VP is continuing with the development and maintenance of websites of various divisions of the Department of Science & Technology; viz. International Division, DST State S&T Programme, STAC, NSTMIS, SERC, Science and Society and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) programme of DST. Now, VP has been entrusted by DST with the task of developing a website on "Women in Science".

Scientific Experiments using a PC

Scientific experiments using a PC is a part of VP's training programme designed for the school students. It is a software and hardware interface, designed, developed and disseminated by Vigyan Prasar. The experiments include measurement and control of temperature, intensity of sound, humidity, pH, voltage, current, resistance, time. This is an effort to explain to the students how computers are useful to measure and control various processes. An activity kit containing twenty experiments has been developed. The kit contains the interface device, setup manual and software and sensors.

S&T Communication through Radio

VP has been producing and broadcasting radio programmes jointly with various stations of All India Radio in different parts of the country. During the year, VP produced and broadcast four radio science serials through different stations of AIR in the country. A 13 - part radio science serial in Chattisgarhi on the theme of "Wealth of Chattisgarh" was completed and broadcast from AIR station in Chattishgarh. . A 13 - part radio science serial in Gondi, a tribal language of Chattisgarh, on the theme "Science around Us" was produced and broadcast from AIR, Ambikapur, Bastar. Two radio serials on "Emergence of Modern Science" were produced and broadcast in Tamil and Malayalam from AIR Chennai and AIR Trivandrum. Four audio serials (13 - part each in Hindi and English) were commissioned during the period, on topics like, Eureka! Story of Discoveries, What are we made of, Zodiac, Earth, and the Living Planet.

VP has also been broadcasting science programmes for one hour daily on AsiaDev channel of WorldSpace Radio (30 minutes Hindi and 30 minutes English.) Programmes are also broadcast on Gyan Vani Channel of IGNOU.

S&T Communication through Television

Vigyan Prasar in association with Development and Educational Communication Unit (DECU) /ISRO telecast a science serial for children on DD-National every Sunday during 0900 - 0930 hrs. The serial "Aisa Hi Hota Hai", the telecast of which began on 23 May 2005, completed one year in May 2006. This was followed by a second serial titled "Har Mutthi Mein Science". From 03 September 2006, a new serial titled 'Chamatkar' is being telecast National channel of Doordarshan. "Chamatkar" is a science quiz show and has become quite popular with a high TRP rating.

A scene from of science quiz show Chamatkar"

VP is producing video programmes in collaboration with DECU (ISRO), CEC (UGC) and other agencies. Programmes produced by VP as part of the World Year of Physics 2005 were telecast on Doordarshan DD News channel on 27 March 2006 on every Monday and Wednesday, in English and Hindi respectively, and continued till June 2006 under the title "Discoveries that changed the world".

The popular science serial "Aisa Hi Hota Hai" has been dubbed in to eleven Indian languages. The telecast has commenced in November 2006 from through regional channels of Doordarshan Kendras (DDK).

VP produced a film on Professor Yash Pal, "Professor Yash Pal, A Life in Science". The film was screened at INSA, New Delhi on 26 November 2006 during the National conference on "Challenges in Science communication: Vision 2026".

VP is in the process of setting up an audio-video studio with minimal facilities. In the first phase a preview facility (all formats) is being set up. In the next phase a small studio would be set-up.

S&T communication through EduSat

VP in association with DECU/ISRO has established an EduSat Satellite Interactive Terminals (SIT) Network in the country exclusively for science and technology communication. Presently, the network consists of 20 SITs spread in different parts of the country with talkback facility and teaching end terminal at VP. The system is being used primarily for S&T communication/ popularization but which could also serve as an emergency communication network during and after natural disasters, should any take place. VP's EduSat network is being augmented to 50 terminals. Special interactive sessions, teleseminars, group discussions and training programmes are being organized regularly on the network.

EduSat classroom teaching end at Vigyan Prasar, New Delhi

Vigyan Prasar NETwork of Science Clubs (VIPNET)

Vigyan Prasar has established a network of science clubs all over the country, called VIPNET, and is continuing its efforts to strengthen and expand it. As part of this, Vigyan Prasar has been organizing workshops/training programmes in different parts of the country including remote and tribal areas. Vigyan Prasar organized fourteen VIPNET sensitization programmes in Jammu, Thane (Maharashtra), NOIDA, Jhansi (UP), Paota (Rajasthan), Nagaland, Mizoram, Assam, Chennai and Thiruchirapalli (Tamil Nadu) , Gandhi Nagar (Gujarat), Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), Dehradun (Uttaranchal), and Chandigarh (Punjab) during the period. VP brings out a monthly newsletter "VIPNET News", printed in four colour. The articles are in English and Hindi. The subscription of VIPNET News has increased from 5000 to 10,000.

VIPNET sensitization programme in Jhansi, U.P

The number of VIPNET Science Clubs has already crossed 7000. Over 1000 new science clubs have been affiliated to VIPNET from different parts of the country during the period under report.

Amateur (ham) Radio

VP organizes many lectures-cum- demonstration programmes to popularize ham radio activities in the country and enable the people to become hams by passing the Amateur Station Operator's license examination conducted by the Ministry of Communication. During the year, two lecture-cum-demonstration programmes on ham radio were organized. A state level ham radio training programme was organized by Vigyan Prasar at Dehradun jointly with the State Council for Science & Technology (U-COST, Govt. of Uttaranchal) and National Service Scheme (NSS), Uttaranchal, from June 7 to June 29, 2006. Fifty two (52) Programme Officers and Volunteers of the National Service Scheme (NSS) from thirteen different districts of Uttaranchal were trained for the Amateur Radio Licensing examination. 33 participants passed the licensing examination.

Astronomy Popularization

Efforts are on to strengthen the popularization activities of astronomy to the masses through workshops and demonstration programmes. Vigyan Prasar conducted astronomy activity demonstration and lecture programmes in various schools of Delhi, NOIDA, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh during the period. VP celebrated the Astronomy day on May 29, 2006. Special programmes were organized on Astronomy for the Edusat Satellite Interactive Terminal Network members of VP. Astronomy Workshop for the VIPNET clubs were organized at Indore (Madhya Pradesh) in June 2006, at Rishikesh (Uttaranchal) in August 2006, in NOIDA in September 2006 and in Guwahati (Assam) in November 2006. Participants fabricated a 39mm simple refractor telescope during the workshops.

Learning to use the star charts

Activity Kits

VP has been developing Activity kits to enhance the scientific concepts and principles of science to the children. VP has produced kits on Total Solar Eclipse, Understanding Earthquakes, Transit of Venus, Astronomy, and Electronics. An activity kit on "Emergence of Modern Physics" has been developed. During the year, VP conducted six demonstration programmes using these activity kits for schools, VIPNET clubs and workshops.

Initiatives in the North-East

VP has taken special initiative to increase S&T content in the newspapers, radio and television in North- Eastern States. It has been proposed to bring out 13-part TV serials on science quiz in local language and in English on DDK, Kohima and DDK, Aizawl. A 13-part radio serial on AIR, Kohima and AIR, Aizawl respectively are also under development. A science writing workshop is being planned in Nagaland for popularizing science writing in the state. Vigyan Prasar has also taken steps to reinforce science activities in Tripura.

Training and Dissemination: Innovative experiments in Physics at school level

Vigyan Prasar and Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, have jointly developed innovative open-ended experiments in Physics for school students and teachers. A multimedia CD-ROM containing the innovative experiments in Physics has been designed and developed. The CD contains experiments and activities in different branches of Physics. Video clippings of the actual activities help understand the principles and concepts in lucid manner. These experiments are being demonstrated by resource persons through workshops in the country. Physics teachers of Class XI & XII participate in the workshops. Around 50 innovative experiments on magnetism, light, mechanics, electricity etc. were demonstrated by resource persons in these workshops. During the year Vigyan Prasar organized workshops on Innovative Experiments in Physics at places like Delhi, Lucknow, Noida, Jhansi (UP), Jammu, Thane (Maharashtra), Chennai and Trichi (Tamil Nadu), Gandhi Nagar (Gujarat), Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), Dehradun (Uttranchal), Chandigarh (Punjab).

Demonstration of Physics Experiments

Vigyan Prasar and National Rail Museum, New Delhi, jointly organized a series of four Science Activity Summer Camps during June and July, 2006. More than 250 students participated in these summer camps.

VP organized two day workshop- "Science Caravan" 2006 on 20 and 21 April 2006 at Queen's Mary Public School, New Delhi for science teachers. Teachers from 32 schools participated in the workshop. A series of similar workshops are being planned in 27 government and 5 private schools.

VP organized a two day workshop on Aerodynamics for science teachers and the members of the VIPNET Clubs at DPS Ghaziabad (U.P) in September 2006. The workshop was organized to familiarize the participants with the basic principles of Aerodynamics through hands on activities.

VP in association with Pratham, a Delhi based NGO working in the field of primary education organized a three day orientation programme for the trainers on theme "Understanding Nature" in September 2006.

Students at Aerodynamics workshop

VP participated in a regional science congress 2006 organized by Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Jaipur in November, 2006 at Jaipur. Around 300 studnets from different Navodaya Vidyalayas's participated in the VIPNET related activities.

Book Fairs / Science Fairs / Science Meets

VP participated in the 12th Delhi Book Fair held in September 2006 in Delhi, and in other book fairs and exhibitions in different parts of the country. VP participated in a Perfect Health Mela in October 2006 at Delhi. A science meet was organized in Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat jointly with Gujarat Council of Science & Technology. A quiz programme was conducted on Planet Earth in Bal Bharti School at Ghaziabad in U.P in December 2006 in which more than 200 students of different braches of the school located in Delhi and NCR participated.

Awards

Two of the video programmes produced by Vigyan Prasar and directed by Shri. Rakesh Andaniya of Credence Media Solutions, Khoj Radiodharmita Ki (Discovery of Radioactivity) and Sukra Paragaman (Transit of Venus) have been selected for screening and entry in the SCINEMA festival Sydney, organized by CSIO Govt. of Australia during August 2006.

VP has received award for its three films title "Quantum Era" for best programme for teachers, "Relativity" for best programme in physical sciences and "Radioactivity" for best editing in the UGC-CEC National film competition.

Governing Body and General Body of Vigyan Prasar

On completion of the tenure of the earlier Governing Body (GB) and General Body (GenB) of Vigyan Prasar, both GB and GenB were reconstituted in September 2006. Shri Kiran Karnik, President, NASSCOM, took over the mantle from Shri M.V. Kamath as the new President of Vigyan Prasar Society. Dr T. Ramsami, Secretary, DST took over as the Chairman, GB, from Professor V.S Ramamurthy, Former Secretary, DST, and Chairman, GB of Vigyan Prasar.

30th Governing Body and 17th General Body meetings of Vigyan Prasar were held on 11 November, 2006.

Capacity Building

DST is also supporting 5 Professional Scientific Societies for effectively promoting science and inculcating the spirit of science. Annual Congresses are held by these societies in different parts of the country, amongst scientists, science managers, policy makers and the general public to give a more systematic direction to the scientific inquiry, and to obtain a more general attention to the objects of pure and applied sciences. The societies are also actively engaged in bringing out publications in general areas of science for wider circulation and popularization and, journals in specialized areas of science. Further, the professional societies also recognize excellence in science pursuit through awards, fellowships and provide encouragement to active scientists through support for participation in national and international events. Young researchers and school children are trained through special interactions with experts from time to time. Indian National Science Academy, (INSA), New Delhi

Initiatives by INSA on topics of current national interest

• The joint working group of INSA and Indian Academy of Sciences Bangalore after an elaborate deliberation prepared a document on Higher Education, Research and Development which has been sent to Planning Commission for inclusion in the 11th five Year Plan. The main thrust of the recommendations are on improvement of Higher Education as well as Research Profiles of Universities and Institutes and development of human resource that is capable of utilizing available knowledge to create wealth and generating new knowledge.
• The Science Education Panel with Prof. S.C. Lakhotia, FNA, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi as Convenor, constituted by the Academy has drawn up a series of capacity building initiatives including summer fellowships for students and teachers, subject specific workshops for school and college teachers and lecture series programmes.
• An Inter Academy group (consisting of representatives of Indian Academy of Sciences Bangalore, National Academy of Sciences, Allahabad and INSA) has been established under the chairmanship of Prof. H.K. Gupta, FNA to provide scientific inputs concerning safe drinking water.
• The Council of the Academy decided that henceforth the subject committees (known as Sectional Committees) will meet twice a year to finalize the nominations for fellowship election. This will help the Council in assessing the scientific excellence of the nominees in greater detail. The guidelines for election of foreign fellowship and INSA awards were also reviewed by a committee headed by Prof. P Rama Rao, FNA, Former Secretary, DST.
• A committee has been set up to review the entire international activities and affiliation to the International Council of Science (ICSU) programme in India.

Recognition of Excellence and Awards/medals

INSA Council selected 20 scientists for INSA Medal for Young Scientists and 25 scientists for the fellowship of the Academy. The Academy also decided to offer 14 other awards to scientists.

INSA Albert Einstein Research Professorship has been awarded to Prof. PK Kaw, Director, Institute of Plasma Research, Bhat, Gandhinagar for a period of five years.

An International Lecture award has been instituted in the memory of late Prof. G N Ramachandran, to be delivered during opening session of International Congress of Biophysics.

The following Award/Medal lectures were delivered during the period:

1. The Bal Dattatraya Tilak Memorial Lecture (2005) entitled "From 'Sink' to 'Source' ; Can Modern Science Learn from Grassroots Innovators and Tradional Knowledge Holders? " by Professor Anil K Gupta, Kasturbhai Lalbhai Chair in Enterpreneurship, Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad at the INSA premises on August 7, 2006.

2. The Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis Medal (2005) lecture entitled "Emerging Behaviour of Clays:Influence of Mineralogy" by Professor A Sridharan, FNA at Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore on July 26, 2006.

3. The Srinivasa Ramanujan Medal (2006) lecture entitled "Some Open Questions Concerning Rational Points on Homogeneous Spaces" by Professor R Parimala, FNA on July 27, 2006 at Chennai.

4. The Golden Jubilee Commemoration Medal Lecture for Biological Sciences(2004) entitled " Making Sense of Scents-Does Every Rose Really Smell so Sweet?" by Professor Veronica F Rodrigues, FNA at National Institute of Oceanography, Goa on July 27, 2006.

5. The Professor K P Bhargava Memorial Medal (2005) Lecture entitled "Japanese Encephalities Vaccine: Moving Away From Mouse Brain" by Dr Sudhanshu Vrati, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi at Deptt of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi on September 16, 2006.

6. Jawaharlal Nehru Birth Centenary Lecture (2005) entitled "The Enemy within: Transcription and the occurrence of Toxic Chromosomal R-Loops in Bacteria" by Dr J Gowrishankar, FNA, Director, Laboratory of Bacterial Genetics, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting & Diagnostics, Hyderabad on September 20, 2006 at the Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi

INSA's participation to enhance visibility in International Fora

• The TWAS (The Academy of Sciences for Developing World) 10th General Conference and the TWNSO 9th General Assembly held during September 2-6, 2006 in Brazil. The TWAS 17th General Meeting held on September 4, 2006 elected the new TWAS Council for the period 2007-2009 with Professor Jacob Palis from Brazil as the President and Professor D Balasubramanian, FNA from India as the Secretary- General.
• The Group of 77 (G77) and TWNSO announced the transformation of TWNSO into the Consortium of Science, Technology and Innovation for the South (COSTIS). The creation of COSTIS will play an instrumental role in making science, technology and innovation an integral part of TWNSO.
• INSA participated in the meeting of the Academies of Sciences of G 8 countries and those of Brazil, India, China and South Africa organized by the Russian Academy of Sciences on 19-20 April 2006 in Moscow ahead of the forthcoming G 8 summit in Saint Petersburg in July 2006. The meeting organized by the Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow endorsed the following statement:

  - Sustainability and security of large scale energy systems; and
  - new methods and perspectives in diagnosis and therapy of influenza diseases including avian flu

• INSA alongwith 67 other Science Academies endorsed the statement released by the Inter Academy Panel on International issues (IAP) on 21st June, 2006 on "Teaching of Evolution" urging parents and teachers to provide children with the facts about the origins and evolution of life on earth.

Efforts have been made to organize the following events:

1. International Congress of Mathematicians (ICM) and General Assembly of IMU (International Mathematical Union) in 2010.

2. General Assembly of COSPAR (Space Research) in 2012.

International Recognition

Dr R. Sridharan, Director, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram has been elected as a member of COSPAR Bureau.

International exchange of visit programme

The Academy supported delegations to the General Assemblies under ICSU (International Council for Science) of IUPHAR (International Union of Pharmacological Sciences ) and COSPAR (Committee on Space Research) General Assembly in China during July 2006. Besides this, twenty five scientists participated in various ICSU sponsored Conferences during this period. The Academy also partially supported 307 scientists to attend International Conferences abroad which are not under ICSU category.

Visits under Bilateral Exchange Programme and INSA-JRD Tata Fellowship

During the period, 22 scientists visited different countries under the exchange programme. An Iranian scientist was supported to work for his research in India under INSA-JRD Tata Fellowship.

Publication Activities

Regular publication activities of Journals continued as the Academy published:

• Indian Journal of Pure and Applied Mathematics Vol.36 issue Nos. 10, 11, 12 (2005) and Vol. 37 issue No. 1 (2006).
• Indian Journal of History of Science Vol. 41 issue Nos. 1 & 2 (2006).
• Proceedings of the Indian National Science Academy Vol. 72, Nos. 1, 2 (2006)

Indian Academy Of Science, (IAS), Bangalore

Mandate and Objectives: The Academy founded in 1934 by Sir CV Raman has completed seventy-two years of its existence. The main activities of the Academy continue to be publication of journals, identifying and electing outstanding scientists as Fellows and Associates, promoting the cause of science education in the country, etc. It was registered as a Society under the Societies Registration Act on 24 April 1934. It commenced functioning with 65 fellows. The strength of the fellowship as on September 2006, is 870. The Academy's scientific activities have been made possible due to the honorary and unpaid services of its Fellows, members of editorial boards and generous financial assistance by the Department of Science and Technology and other funding agencies.

The Academy brings out a Year Book every year. It contains all relevant particulars such as Memorandum of Association, Statutes, Composition of the Council, list of Fellows, Associates and Honorary Fellows elected to the Academy, list of journals published with editorial boards, other activities etc. The 2006 edition was brought out in Feb. 2006.

Publications: This is the major activity of the Academy and eleven journals in diverse disciplines and varying frequencies are published. These are (a) Bulletin of Materials Science (b) Current Science (c) Journal of Astrophysics and Astronomy (d) Journal of Biosciences (e) Journal of Chemical Sciences (f) Journal of Earth System Science (g) Journal of Genetics (h) Pramana (Journal of Physics) (i) Proceedings (Mathematical Sciences) (j) Resonance - Journal of Science Education (k) Sadhana - Academy Proceedings in Engineering Sciences. Several special issues on topical themes are regularly published as part of the journals. Hadron physics, Solid State Physics Symposium, Statistical techniques in electrical and computer engineering, Probabilistic structural dynamics and earthquake engineering and Transiant phenomena on the sun are some of the issues published in 2006. All journals are available in full text form in the Internet thus increasing the visibility of the journals worldwide. The software program that facilitates online processing of all editorial operations connected with some of our journals was put in place during this period.

Mid-Year Meeting: The mid-year scientific meeting in July 2006 was held in Bangalore. The mid-year meeting was attended by about 200 Fellows and Associates. There were several lecture presentations on semi-popular topics, two special lectures and a public lecture on "What do mathematicians do, and how?".

Public Lectures: upto Sept. 2006

Three Lectures by distinguished scientists from abroad (E. Tosatti, International centre for Theoretical Physics, Trieste; Michael E Peskin, Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, California and Edouard Brezin from France) were organized.

Science Education: To improve the quality of science education and its teaching several programmes continue to be undertaken by the Academy. The following are the main activities:

(i) Summer fellowships: Two-month summer fellowships are awarded to bright students and motivated teachers to work with Fellows of the Academy on research-oriented projects. During the year 2006 summer fellowships were offered to 202 students and 36 teachers from all over the country.

(ii) Participation of teachers in Academy meetings: From the Academy database of teachers, 100 teachers around the country were invited to participate in the two Academy meetings as guest participants to provide them opportunities to attend scientific programmes as well as to interact with Fellows.

(iii) Refresher courses for teachers: This important programme for teachers is designed to help motivated teachers to improve their knowledge and teaching skills. The course is of a two-week duration and consists of lectures, discussion sessions and tutorial sessions. Refresher courses on "Excitements in computational physical and bio-sciences", at International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad and on "Phylogenetic biology" at University of Mysore were held during the year.

(iv) Lecture workshops for students/teachers: Academy arranges 2-3 day lecture programmes on carefully chosen topics at selected college and university departments in the country for local students and teachers. Speakers include fellows and others from nearby institutions. During the year, these lecture workshops were held on different topics at University of Calicut, St. Pious College, Hyderabad and Govt. Autonomous Science College, Jabalpur.

Committee on Women in Science: The Council of the Academy constituted a committee on 'Women in Science' to consider problems related to women in science. Summary of the discussions held at the meeting and action plans that were identified are: (a) Creation of database of women in sciences at all levels (b) a report on the status of 'Women in Science in India' containing hard facts and figures is essential while addressing the issue of 'Women in Science'(c) a web page for 'Women in Science' (d) involvement of social scientists and psychologists in the discussion of the working group (e) a session on 'Women in Science' at the Academy's meetings (f) starting of a role model programme named after some of the women fellows of the Academy (g) holding of a Workshop on 'Women in Science' etc. A Panel on Women in Science consisting of 6 members was formed for formulating very specific plans of action and gauge their financial implications The National Academy Of Sciences, (NASI), Allahabad

DST, New Delhi has played a pivotal role and provided insights and vision in enabling the NASI in discharging its duties for societal objectives.

(1) (a) S&T Policy Formulation, Implementation and Updation

An Exercise to Broaden the Horizon of Science Communication Programmes -

This is an era of revolution in Information Technology. Several other advancements in Science & Technology as nanoscience, genetic engineering, gene therapy, cloning, have given a new dimension. The system needs a rapid change. The society requires graduates of school systems to identify and solve problems of day to day life. This requires innovative way of teaching, where students actively participate in the process of learning. Therefore the Academy decided to prepare a Vision Paper elaborating broad programmes for Science Communication Activities of the Academy for next five years for a target group of school students. The Vision Paper has been sent to the National Council for Science and Technology Communication, New Delhi for financial assistance.

The popularity graph and the impact of Academy's Science Communication Programme is increasing significantly and, therefore, there is a need that the role of Headquarter and Chapters may be defined to extend the ongoing Science Communication Programmes to as many students as possible in the country.

Popularization Graph of Science Communication Programmes is given below -

Fig. 1 - Number of science students (+ 2 level) who participated in Science Contests (i.e.Science Quiz, Debate, Exhibition, Oration and Essay at U.P. State level) during different years.

Fig. 2 - Number of science students who attended science extension lectures during different years

Fig. 3 - Number of science students who participated and the schools involved in the summer school during different years

Fig. 4 - Number of Science Teachers who participated in Teachers' Workshops during different years

(1) (b) S&T Intelligence System accessible to DST

The National Academy of Sciences, India, distinguishes itself from the other two Science Academies in the very basic nature of its structure. This Academy has a two-tier composition comprising, Members and Fellows, right from its inception. Both categories participate in the activities of the Academy.

The Academy has a total of 1380 Fellows including 34 Honorary Fellows and 67 Foreign Fellows. These include scientists from all disciplines of Science and Technology from India and abroad. These numbers also include the Fellows elected during the year 2006.At present the Academy has 1445 Members on its roll of which 50 were admitted during the year 2006.

Every year the Academy brings out its Year Book which contains the details of these Fellows along with their areas of specialization.

(2) Basic Research in Emerging Frontiers of Science and National Research Facilities

The Academy encourages basic research in emerging frontier of science by publishing research papers in its Journals viz.

1. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India - Section A, Physical Sciences PNASI (Sec. A) - (Quarterly)

2. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India - Section B, Biological Sciences PNASI (Sec. B) - (Quarterly)

3. National Academy Science Letters (NASL) - (Bi-monthly)

The Academy gives the following Awards for outstanding research

1. The National Academy of Sciences, India - Swarna Jayanti Puraskar

2. NASI-Reliance Industries Platinum Jubilee Awards for Application Oriented Innovations Covering Both Physical and Biological Sciences

3. NASI-Young Scientist Platinum Jubilee Awards in Any Branch of Science or Technology Recognized by the Academy.

In order to recognize excellence the Academy also gives several awards instituted in the names of eminent scholars in selected areas of science.

(3) (a) DST supported autonomous scientific institutions : An address for world class quality research

During April 1 - September 30, 2006 the number of research papers published in different Journals is given below

PNASI (Sec. A) = 27

PNASI (Sec. B) = 26

NASL = 30

The citation and impact of the Journals and research papers published is by and large significant.

(3) (b) DST support to Indian Science & Engineering Academies

DST support to NASI has enabled it to discharge its duties successfully.

(4) Human Resources for Indian S&T advancement : (a) Opportunities for nurturing talent and providing stimulating experience to Indian SET personnel

Science Communication Activities and National Science Day Celebration - The Academy every year organizes science communication/awareness activities to stimulate the students for cultivation of scientific temperament and to opt science as a career. The activities include science extension lectures, science quiz, debate, oration, exhibition, essay, creative writing and painting contest, talent search, workshops for the teachers and Vigyan Chaupal in different districts of U.P. and other neighboring states.

During the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of the NASI, lectures in Colleges for (10+2) level science students to ignite them for excitement in Science by Fellows/Members spread throughout the country were organized.

The Academy has joined hands with other science academies namely INSA and IAS in Drinking Water and student/teacher Mentor Programmes.

(7) S&T based Services

Every year the Academy brings out its Year Book which contains the details of its Fellows along with their area of specializations.

(8) Conferment of awards

National Science Day - The National Science Day function is organized every year on February 28. The winners of science contests are given prizes on this occasion. The Academy has also instituted three gold medals for the science promotion activities. These are awarded to the winners of U.P. State Level contests in the memory of Prof. Krishnaji, Prof. U.S. Srivastava and Prof. H.C. Khare.

Celebration of National Technology Day - The National Technology Day (NTD) is also celebrated by the National Academy of Sciences, India on May 11 every year. This year a Symposium on 'Advancements and Scope in Biotechnology' was also held on the National Science Day.

Science Teacher Award - In order to recognize outstanding teachers teaching science in intermediate or equivalent institutions for distinctions achieved by him/her in stimulating students to take part in co-curricular or and out of the class science activities and bringing out their talents in science, the Academy gives the following two awards.

1. NASI-Science Teacher Award
2. M.R. Railkar Teacher Award focused on Mathematics Instruction

(9) Financial performance under different schemes/sanctioned budget heads - Rs. 4.71 Crore for 2006- 07 Indian National Academy Of Engineering, (INAE), New Delhi

Conferment of Awards

The following fellows of the society had been conferred awards during the last calander year.

- Dr. K Kasturirangan, Director, National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bangalore has been conferred Honorary Fellowship from Cardiff University, UK

- Dr. S Sivaram, Director, National Chemical Laboratory, Pune has been conferred the Padma Shri Award for 2006.

- Mr. Rakesh Bakshi, Chairman, RRB Consultants and Engineers Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi has been conferred the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Prestigious Award "Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity" by the Hon'ble Gianni Vernetti, Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of Italy on July 6, 2006 at the residence of the Ambassador of Italy, New Delhi.

- Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, Professor and Head, Chemical Engineering, IIT Kanpur has been awarded the J.C. Bose Fellowship of the Department of Science & Technology (2006-2010) and Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (2006).

- Dr. Bhakta B Rath, Associate Director of Research, Materials Science and Component Technology Directorate, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, USA has been conferred with "The 2005 Fred Saalfeld Award for Outstanding Lifetime Achievement in Science" of the Office of Naval Research of the Department of Navy.

- Prof. TR Anantharaman, Chancellor, Ashram Atmadeep, Gurgaon has been conferred with Life Time Achievement Award in Metallurgy by the Union Ministry of Steel & Mines on November 17, 2004

- Dr. UR Rao, Chairman, PRL Council, ISRO-DOS, Department of Space, Bangalore has been awarded the Theodore Von Karman Award of International Astronautical Academy

- Prof. P Ramachandra Rao, Vice-Chancellor, Institute of Armament Technology (Deemed University), Pune has been honoured with Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Medal, 2005

- Dr. CC Patel, Chairman, Task Force on Interlinking of Rivers, has been awarded the 2005 WFEO Medal of Engineering Excellence by the World Federation of Engineering Organizations.

Engineering Excellence Awards

Life Time Contribution Award in Engineering 2006

Dr. Anil Kakodkar and Dr. Kota Harinarayana have been selected for Life Time Contribution Awards in Engineering 2006 recognising their distinguished contributions in the field of Engineering / Engineering Research & Technology.

Prof. Jai Krishna and Prof. SN Mitra Memorial Awards 2006

These awards are given to an eminent engineer, engineer-scientist or a technologist for one or more of the following:

a. Academic and scholarly achievements in any discipline of technology

b. Outstanding research in engineering and technology and application thereof.

c. Outstanding contributions in the management of education and research in engineering

d. Outstanding achievements and contributions in the Indian industry, engineering services or engineering projects

Prof. S Ranganathan and Prof. B Yegnanarayana have been selected for Prof. Jai Krishna and Prof. SN Mitra Memorial Awards 2006 respectively.

INAE Young Engineer Award 2006

The Academy in 1996, instituted INAE Young Engineer Awards for excellence in design and technology transfer, innovative development and engineering research. The scheme has attracted nominations of bright young talent in the country and has become a prestigious national award since then. So far, 95 young engineers have been conferred this Award for their engineering and technological contributions for national development. The nominations for this award for the year 2006 were sought from INAE Fellowship, Engineering institutions, R&D Labs during March 2006. Out of fifty four candidates including eleven carried over from the previous years, twenty nine were shortlisted by the Sectional Committees in their meeting on August 18, 2006 at New Delhi. Final selection of 12 candidates was then made by the Selection Committee on September 8, 2006.

Innovative Student Projects Award 2006

The Academy has instituted 'Innovative Student Projects Award' since 1998 to identify innovative and creative research projects undertaken by the students at three levels, B.E./ B.Tech, ME/ M.Tech and Ph.D in Engineering Colleges. The Scheme envisages joint projects among Industry, Research Laboratories and Academic Institutions.

Eighty-six nominations received, for Doctoral level (19), Master's level (20) and Bachelor level (47) were examined by the Steering Committee. Out of these, forty- one nominations, for Doctoral level (12), Master's level (13) and Bachelor level (16) were shortlisted. The steering Committee recommended nineteen candidates (Doctoral level (4), Masters Level (7) and Bachelor level (8) for conferment of Innovative students Projects Award 2006 based on their presentation.

Major Activities/ Programmes during the period are given below

INAE New Activities

The following new schemes have been instituted by INAE during the current year.

a) Research Support for Young Engineer Awardees

A Scheme: "Research Support for Young Engineer Awardees" has been instituted. The objective of this Scheme is to provide research support to INAE Young Engineer Awardees to enable them to pursue high-quality research in their fields of specialization. All INAE Young engineer Awardees 2005 have been given a start up grant of Rs 1Lakh each.

b) INAE Distinguished Professors/Technologists

The objective of this Scheme is to utilize the expertise of INAE Fellows after superannuation primarily for research / teaching in institutions / universities / Research & Development establishments, and industry in India. Superannuated Fellows below 70 years of age are eligible for consideration. Five INAE Distinguished Professors/Technologists have been selected for the current year.

c) Mentoring of Engineering Students by Fellows of INAE

Summer Internships to bright B. Tech./B.E. students to work with Fellows of INAE, on R&D or design-oriented projects have been instituted. Meritorious 3rd /4th year B. Tech./B.E. students from recognized Engineering institutions are eligible for award of this internship. Six engineering students have been selected under the subject scheme for the current year.

d) Mentoring of Engineering Teachers by Fellows of INAE

Summer Fellowships to Engineering Teachers to work with Fellows of INAE, on R&D or designoriented projects have been instituted. Motivated Engineering Teachers from recognized Engineering institutions are eligible for award of these INAE Summer Fellowships. Ten Summer Fellowships have been awarded to Engineering Teachers for the current year.

AICTE-INAE Distinguished Visiting Professorship Scheme

Launched jointly with AICTE in 1999, the scheme envisages promotion of industry-institute interaction by facilitating the dissemination of knowledge through the expertise of experienced and knowledgeable persons from industry to integrate their rich industrial experience with technical education. The Scheme has received very enthusiastic response from industry and engineering research institutions over the years. The Steering Committee of the AICTE-INAE Distinguished Visiting Professorship Scheme, after detailed deliberations selected 15 industry experts for the subject scheme for the year 2006 out of the thirty three nominations received.

Round Table on "Energy Resources and Security"

Dr. KV Raghavan, Chairman, RAC, DRDO was the Coordinator of the Round Table Meeting held on July 29, 2006 at India International Centre, New Delhi. The Round Table Conference focused its attention on Synergy Driven Approach for selecting alternative energy resources to oil, and technologies for processing them to primary energy. Sixty-five participants from 30 organizations attended the Round Table Meeting. In the concluding session, policy and implementation issues involved in achieving energy security were deliberated.

INAE Seminar on "Engineering Response to Hazards of Terrorism" at IIT Kanpur on Sep. 25-26, 2006

INAE National Seminar on "Engineering Response to Hazards of Terrorism" was held on Sep 25-26, 2006 at IIT Kanpur. It was jointly organized by INAE and National Information Centre of Earthquake Engineering, IIT Kanpur. About 75 participants from Academia, industry, Research & Development institutions and Government and Public Sector attended the subject Seminar.

International Affairs

CAETS Council Meeting and Symposium on Hydrogen Economy

A delegation comprising Prof R Natarajan, Vice President INAE and Dr TK Roy, FNAE attended the CAETS Council Meeting and International Symposium on "The Hydrogen Economy: Clean Energy for this Century" held at Brussels, Belgium on May 31, 2006-June 2, 2006.

They also attended the CAETS Annual Meeting on June 2, 2006. Prof. Natarajan outlined the INAE proposal to host an International Conference on "Engineering Education" in Madras in Jan-Feb 2007. He also described current issues and concerns in India on engineering education. The Council agreed to CAETS endorsement of the INAE proposed International Conference on "Engineering Education," to be held in Madras, India, during January - February, 2007, and that it be billed as a CAETS event.

17th CAETS Convocation

The 17th CAETS Convocation on "Environment and Sustainable Growth" will be held on October 23- 26, 2007 at Tokyo, Japan, which will be followed by CAETS Council Meeting on October 26, 2007. INAE has been invited to provide a speaker during the third Session of the Convocation on "Scenarios for Sustainable Growth".

Joint Australia-India Workshop on "Broadband Communication & Information Technology"

The Indo-Australian Workshop on "Broadband Communication and Information Technology" was held on July 10 and 11 at Melbourne Business School, University of Melbourne under the auspices of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ASTE).

Visit of INAE Delegation to Beijing, China

A six member INAE delegation led by Prof S Ranganathan participated in the International Conference on the Beginnings of the Use of Metals and alloys (BUMA-VI) in Beijing during Sep 15-20, 2006.

During this Conference, the Members of the INAE delegation presented three papers in oral sessions and two papers in poster sessions.

Even though Japan showed some interest in organizing BUMA-VII, the committee fully appreciated the interest from India and awarded BUMA-VII to be organized by the National Institute of Advanced Studies under the aegis of the Indian National Academy of Engineering in Bangalore in September 2009. Prof Ranganathan of INAE was also elected to the Standing Committee of BUMA.

Annual Convention

INAE Annual Convention was held on December 8-9, 2006 at Indian National Science Academy (INSA), Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi. The highlights of the Annual Convention were the presentations by INAE Fellows elected in 2006 on the topics of their fields of specialization and the Award Ceremony.

India's Road to Hydrogen Economy

Following the International Conference organized by the Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) on "Road Map to Hydrogen Economy" in March 2005 at Hyderabad, a Core Group of INAE worked on the preparation of a Policy Paper on Hydrogen as an energy carrier. The Policy Paper on "India's Road to Hydrogen Economy" has been published in April 2006 and submitted to DST, SAC-C, NHEB and other concerned authorities. The Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA), Kolkata

Profile of ISCA

The Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA) is a premier scientific organization of the country and has been promoting science and inculcating the spirit of science through its multifarious activities since its establishment in 1914. Ever since 1914, ISCA has been holding annual Congress of the Association in the first week of January, in different parts of the country, with a very distinguished scientist as its General President, where scientists, science managers, policy makers and the general public interact to give a more systematic direction to the scientific inquiry, and to obtain a more general attention to the objects of pure and applied sciences.

The major objectives of the Association are as follows:

(i) To advance and promote the cause of Science in India;

(ii) To hold an Annual Congress at a suitable place in India;

(iii)To publish proceedings, journals, transactions, etc.;

(iv) To popularise Science.

From the modest beginning, in January 15-17, 1914 the association has grown into a strong fraternity with nearly eighteen thousand members - who participate in fourteen different sections of the Congress. The number of papers communicated for presentation has risen to about one thousand.

Introduction of Focal Theme & Follow-up Action

In the year 1976 ISCA introduced the concept of Focal Theme of national relevance which is now discussed in every congress, during the annual session Another significant breakthrough came in the year 1980, when the Department of Science and Technology, set up a permanent Task Force involving representatives of ISCA and chiefs of different agencies and voluntary organizations Chaired by Secretary, DST, as being responsible for follow-up action on various recommendations on the Focal Theme. Every year follow-up actions on recommendations made in the previous Science Congress are discussed at a General Session thereby contributing to the development of Science in general, and National Science Policy, in particular.

Young Scientists'Programme

ISCA introduced this programme from the 68th Session of the Indian Science Congress in 1981. The Programme enables young scientists to present their research work and exchange ideas with their counterparts and specialists. ISCA awards for excellent presentations, starting with 93rd Indian Science Congress, award has been enhanced from Rs.5,000/- to Rs.25,000/- .

Paper Presentation

From the year 1998, the accepted papers were slated for poster presentation. Further, the two best presentations in each section are awarded a cash prize of Rs.2,000/. Oral presentations of papers are also included in the programme, very selectively in each section.

Activities of ISCA Chapters

At present 18 ISCA Chapters exist in different parts of India viz. Bangalore, Baroda, Bhubaneswar, Bhopal, Bodh-Gaya, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kanpur, Karnal, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patiala and Shillong.

Celebration :

• National Technology Day was celebrated jointly with Birla Industrial & Technological Museum on 12th May, 2006 in the auditorium of BITM.
• World Environment Day was celebrated on 5th June, 2006.
• Doctor's Day was celebrated on 3rd July, 2006.
• International Science Day was celebrated on November 10, 2006.

Collaborative Programme:

• 39th Engineer's Day was celebrated in collaboration with American Society of Civil Engineers, India Section and Institute of Civil Engineers (UK), India-Eastern Region in the auditorium of Indian Institute of Chemical Engineer on 15th September, 2006.
• World Quality Day was celebrated in collaborated with Indian Association for Productivity Quality & Reliability (IAPQR), Kolkata on 9th November 2006.

Participation in Fair:

The Association participated in the Kolkata Book Fair from 31st January to 11th February, 2007.

Library Service

During the year under report, the Library of the Indian Science Congress Association subscribed to many Indian and Foreign journals. The Library is open to all category of members of the Association as well as school, college and university teachers.

Publications

The year under report witnessed a significant number of publications brought out by the Association. The following publications brought out were: Information Brochure - 94th Indian Science Congress, ISCA Directory: 2006-2007, List of Office-Bearers & Sectional Committees for 2006-2007, Honorary Members, Donor & Life Members for 2006-2007, Members (With Voting Right) for 2006-2007, Annual Report : 2005- 2006.

Four issues of the bi-monthly journal Everyman's Science (Volume XLI) were brought out.

Proceedings of the Ninety-third Annual Session of the Indian Science Congress Association and Synopses of the Presentations of ISCA Young Scientist Awardees for 2006 were published.

94th Indian Science Congress

The 94th Indian Science Congress was held at Annamalainagar under the auspices of the Annamalai University from January 3-7, 2007. The focal theme of the Congress was "Planet Earth". Eminent seismologist Prof. Harsh Gupta was the General President. The Congress touched upon several very important aspects of the earth that is our home planet, such as, evolution and sustenance of life, environmental concerns, concerns related to energy and other natural resources, prediction of monsoon, climatic variability and finally natural hazard mitigation strategies.

Besides the above, platinum jubilee lectures, endowment lectures, contributory papers, poster presentations and young scientist award competitions in 14 different sections were organized. A series of special and public lectures by eminent scientists were arranged.