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The National Academy of Sciences, India
(NASI)
Annual Report
(April 2017 – March 2018)
5, Lajpatrai Road, Allahabad - 211 002
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POSTAL ADDRESS
The National Academy of Sciences, India
5, Lajpatrai Road, Allahabad – 211002, India
PHONE +91-532-2640224, 2441243
FAX +91-532-2641183
WEBSITE
http://www.nasi.nic.in http://www.nasi.org.in
NASI, Allahabad is also on the
FACEBOOK & TWITTER
Published by the General Secretary (HQ), NASI
for
The National Academy of Sciences, India, Allahabad
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An Academy of Science can do a great deal by educating public opinion, undertaking
particular problems, and bringing out scientific workers in various fields for discussion and
cooperative research. But the main function of the Academy should be towards cultural
improvement by contributions to human knowledge.
- Prof. Meghnad Saha on the Inaugural Session of the Academy
India is justified in feeling proud for its unique contributions to science in ancient days. However,
successive foreign invasions and alien rule for centuries pushed science in the background and the country went through with what may be described as the dark age for science. Western science
attracted Indian intelligentsia after the establishment of the western system of education and the
universities; and despite many constraints, the country could produce giants like Prof. Meghnad Saha, Prof. S. N. Bose, Sir J.C. Bose and Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray.
The first World War and the world-wide economic depression caused a set back to scientific research globally - much more so in India whose scientists found it difficult even to publish their
research work since they had to be almost entirely dependent on foreign journals. The post World
War India saw the rise of the freedom movement, which incidentally drew attention to the
numerous problems of the Indian populace like poverty, hunger, diseases, recurrent floods, droughts, famines etc. Patriotic scientists felt deeply concerned with these.
It was in this background that the idea of establishing a forum for scientists, which would help them in publishing their researches and bring them together to discuss and find scientific solutions
to the problems of the country, was mooted by Prof. Meghnad Saha, a great scientist, patriot and
the then Professor of Physics at the University of Allahabad in 1929. His views were published in the article entitled 'A Plea for an Academy of Sciences' in December 1929 issue of the University
of Allahabad magazine.
The National Academy of Sciences, India was thus established as the first Science Academy of this country in 1930.
Late Prof. Meghnad Saha, Founder President
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Vision & Mission
NASI –Envisions: The cultivation and promotion of Science & Technology in all its branches,
through-
organizing meetings and holding discussions on scientific and technological problems; and
promoting scientific and technological research/projects for societal welfare;
recognition of scientific and social achievements by electing Fellows, Members, awarding Chairs, research support and promoting excellence;
popularization of science among the students and communities;
undertaking scientific works of public importance as may be called upon to perform;
promoting scientific excellence in research by giving due recognition/awards to
scientists/researchers;
publication of proceedings, journals, memoirs, books and other works as considered desirable;
maintaining a Library;
co-operating with other Academies in India and to appoint representatives of the Academy;
opening Chapters of the Academy in the country;
securing endowments for the promotion of science and technology
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Foreword
Dr. Anil Kakodkar
Modern India is rapidly advancing, leveraging her demographic dividend and S&T
related empowerment of her youth. We are among the topmost countries in the world in
technology domains like space, atomic energy, advanced defense technologies, information
technology and such others. India also ranks at 6th position in the world of scientific
publications. S&T indicators in the country are moving up at a rapid pace. We are fast
embracing emerging developments in advanced areas such as Nano-science, biological
science, artificial intelligence etc. and are getting ready for the emerging new age society.
There are however challenges that we need to address. Realising the key role of S&T
in comprehensive empowerment of nations, we need to evolve a more conducive
environment/eco-system that can facilitate quick translation of findings of new research into
new technology well ahead of others and make India a competitive innovation empowered
nation. NASI has been seriously reflecting on this issue and has come out with some useful
recommendations in this regard.
Another area that needs serious attention is the issue of balanced development of the
country in a manner that reduces disparities. Rural India where a larger part of our population
still resides, a situation that would persist for quite some time, deserves our special attention
in this context. There is a need to build capability and capacity among rural people,
particularly the rural youth, to not only match with their urban counterparts but also to make
them capable of leveraging the opportunities of the new age era shoulder to shoulder with
their counterparts anywhere in the world. This is an urgent challenge and concrete steps are
necessary. Commemoration of 150th
year of Mahatmaji and Kasturbaji, that is currently
underway, is a perfect setting for this purpose. We also need to pay attention to environmental
as well as moral upliftment along with capability and capacity upliftment at all levels,
individual, social and organizational.
The National Academy of Sciences, India, the oldest science academy of India with
the largest pool of distinguished academics, researchers, scientists and technologists; over and
above its role in terms of nurturing and leveraging an eminent peer group to address relevant
policy issues and nurturing application oriented research and innovation; distinguishes itself
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in terms of its ‗science & society‘ programmes. With the advice and help of large number of
its Fellows and the Members, several programs are taken up which directly connect to the
societal issues of national importance. The Academy has carried out several programmes such
as ensuring 'Safe Water' in Bundelkhand area, 'Nutrition & Health risk management' for
tribal/rural populations of about twenty different difficult terrains, 'Technological
sensitization of women' in about 17 states (including the Mega-event at Delhi this year
attended by more than 1000 women scientists from all across the country), 'S & T
Entrepreneurship Development programmes' to support the National Mission on 'Start-up' and
'Stand-up', 'Conservation of rivers' through mass awakening through establishing magnificent
river-galleries studded with innovative technologies, 'Awareness programmes for the army
personnel', and hundreds of 'Science Education/Communication programmes'. These
programmes are being organised by NASI along with its 18 Chapters spread in throughout the
country. Not only these, the Academy organised analytical discussions on different policy
issues impacting the growth of science & technology in our country; during the 87th Annual
Session of the Academy, the status of 'Basic Research' in our country was discussed. The
recommendations are being sent to the governmental and non-governmental agencies to think
over and suitably redefine their steps. Further, we have planned to discuss two other
important issues this year - ‗Rural Technology for sustainable growth‘ and ‗Energy Needs of
India‘ - vital for country‘s growth & development. There are many more scientific & societal
issues on which our publications are focusing to enlighten the researchers and budding
scientists who are the future of our country.
Thus, NASI is striving hard to pursue its objectives; but there are yet many miles to
go. Excellence is a journey and not a destination. Let us therefore rededicate ourselves and
our scientific work to the service of our nation.
With best wishes to all
(Anil Kakodkar)
President, NASI
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CONTENTS
Page Nos.
1. Executive Summary………………………………………………………………………… 1
2.1 Activities with an emphasis on Scientific Awareness and Human Resource Development:
2.1.1 Report on the Successful organization of Scientific Paper –writing workshop………… 5
2.1.2 Establishment of Cauvery Gallery …………………………………………….. 6
2.1.3 Science Communication Activities 7
2.1.4. Project/Studies of Social Relevance…………………………………………… 22
2.1.5 87th Annual session and symposium ―Basic Research-its role in National
Development…………………………………………………………………………… 23
2.2 Activities related to Scientific Research
2.2.A A brief report on the Scientific/Research Contributions of
M.N. Saha Distinguished Professor…………………………………………... 26
2.2.B Report on the Scientific/Research Contributions of
J.C. Bose Distinguished Chair ………………………………………................. 28
2.2.C A brief report on the Scientific/Research Contributions of
NASI-ICMR chair on Public Health Research……………………………… 30
2.2.D A brief report on the Scientific/Research Contributions of
NASI-DST Distinguished Woman Scientist Chair…………………………… 34
2.2.E Scientific/Research Contributions of NASI Honorary Scientist …………….. 35
2.2.F Scientific/Research Contributions of NASI Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee
Fellows………………………………………………………. 47
3. Publications of the Academy......................................................................................... 97
4. Memorial Lecture Awards ......................................................................................... 100
5. NASI Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee Fellowships………………........................... 101
6. Recognitions/Awards
(A) NASI-Reliance Industries Platinum Jubilee Awardee………… 101
(B) NASI-Young Scientist Platinum Jubilee Awardees……… 102
(C) NASI-SCOPUS Awardees/ NASI- Springer Award… 103
(D) NASI-Swarna Jayanti Puraskar/ NASI-Springer Awardee 103
7. Fellowship and Membership…………………………………………………………… 104
8. Obituary……………………………………………………………………………………. 104
9. Council 2017 & 2018………………………………………………………………….. 105
10. Meetings…………………………………………………………………………………... 108
11. Organizational Chart……………………………………………………………………... 108
12. Finance…………………………………………………………………………………….. 109
13. Chapters of the Academy……………………………………………………………… 110
14. Building & Dr. Sir Padampat Singhania Library………………………………........ 151
15. Acknowledgements……………………………………………………………………… 152
Annexures
I. Fellows elected during 2017;and Foreign Fellows elected during 2017……… 153
II. Members admitted during 2017…………………………………………………… 156
III. Audited Statement of Accounts for the Year Ending March 2018…….. 158
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1. Executive Summary
Major Accomplishments: The Academy (NASI) organized various activities under the presidentship of
Professor Anil Kakodkar, former Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission of India during the year 2017-18.
The Past Presidents, namely Professor M.S. Swaminathan, Professor (Mrs.) Manju Sharma, Professor S.K.
Joshi, Professor Ashok Misra, Professor Asis Datta, Dr V. P. Kamboj, Dr. K. Kasturirangan and Professor
Akhilesh K. Tyagi also took keen interest in the dissemination of science in general and the development of
the Academy, in particular. The Academy was also nurtured by Late Professor M.G.K. Menon, Professor
A.K. Sharma and Professor V. P. Sharma- Past Presidents, NASI. The noteworthy accomplishments with
the kind cooperation of its Fellows and Members, and major (financial) support of the DST, New Delhi, are
as follows:
Publications NASI published the Proceedings of NASI, Sec. A & B, each in IV parts and Science Letters in VI parts, in
collaboration with the Springer India Pvt. Ltd.
National Academy Science Letters received Impact Factor (IF) as 0.519 in 2017 from Thomson
Reuters; about 266 papers were received from twenty five countries.
PNASI, Sec. A received Impact Factor (IF) as 0.754 in 2017 from Thomson Reuters; and 175
papers were received from thirteen countries.
The PNASI, Sec. B received Cite Score as 0.62 in 2017 from Scopus; and papers were received
from nineteen countries.
An important Special Issue on ‗Remote Sensing‘ was also published in the year 2017-18.
The 9 volumes on the History of Science in India were distributed to the concerned government and
non-government agencies for dissemination of knowledge.
The ‗Vision Document‘ on Women in Science was also distributed.
Three reports on Nutritional Survey & Analysis (in collaboration with ICMR-NIN, Hyderabad) on
the rural/semi-urban population of Allahabad, Hyderabad and Vadodara, were published after
extensive work in these regions in last three years.
Science Communication Activities ● The highlights of these activities were Children Science Meet, Summer & Winter Schools,
Vocational Training Programmes, Teachers‟ Training Workshops, Scientific Writing Contest,
Vigyan, Jal & Health Chaupals, Seminars, and celebration of the National Technology Day, the
National Science Day, the National Mathematics Day and the World Environment Day etc. The
Academy also encouraged the teachers for out-of-the-class science activities by recognizing their
talent and giving away NASI-Science Teacher‟s Awards to them.
● NASI‘s 18 Chapters spread across India, organized hundreds of science communication activities in
and around their respective regions throughout the year. More than 20,000 students and teachers
benefitted from these activities.
● A series of workshops on Scientific Paper Writing have been organized by the Academy (since
2012) to train the young researchers in the art and ethics of scientific writing. So far, 14 such
workshops have been organized at BHU, Varanasi; SGPGI, Lucknow; NASI HQs, Allahabad;
Udaipur; Mumbai; Dehradun; Pune, Amrawati, Nainital and Rishikesh; out of which 3 were
organized during the year 2017-18.
● Two Science Awareness Programmes (relating to health issues) were organized for the Army
personnel.
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Activities under Scheduled Tribe Sub-Plan Programmes An innovative programme was launched under this head for improving the socio-economic status of the
Scheduled Tribes of about 15 regions of the country, as for-
Bioeconomy for the Scheduled Tribes: Emphasis has been given on Bioresources and biodiversity
development, conservation and utilization, as well as on Value addition.
S&T Interventions: For ensuring Safe Water and Sanitation, eradicating Malnutrition, Malaria and
other communicable diseases, etc.
Data accumulation, analysis and utilization: Specially on the vast knowledge bank of ethnic
medical practices and ethos, as well as the wide spread biodiversity of the tribal areas.
S&T Entrepreneurship development ● Training programs for entrepreneurs – To inculcate the spirit of entrepreneurship in the youth
and in line with the National Mission Programmes of Skill Development and Start Up India,
NASI organised programmes with ‗Hands-on training‘ at Chitrakoot and Jamshedpur. Young,
potential candidates interested in entrepreneurship benefited from these programmes.
● Awareness and Training – on Nutrition, Safe drinking water, Health & hygiene etc. A mixed
participation of rural and urban population was ensured. This was included as a part of ―Swasth
Bharat Mission‖.
● Safe drinking water and pollution abatement - especially for the rural areas and municipal
workers – This is the part of ―Swachh Bharat Mission‖. A Brain Storming on ‗Safe Water and
Sanitation‘ was also held at Allahabad on Sept.15-17, 2017; a large number of scientists, municipal
workers, researchers and others attended the brainstorming sessions. Also, a book on ‗Water and
Sanitation in the New Millennium‘, edited by Prof. K. J. Nath and Late Prof. V. P. Sharma was
published/ released during the Inaugural Session.
Sensitization Programmes for Women Researchers/Scientists The Academy organized 25 workshops on Technological Empowerment of Women in different parts
of the country during the last 5 years. More than 10000 women scientists/researchers were sensitized
under this programme. A Vision Document-Report on Women in Science in India was also released.
Therefore, a Mega Event was planned to spread the message on an International scale. The Mega Event
was held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi on the auspicious occasion of International Women‘s Day, i.e.
on March 8-9, 2018 with Dr Harsh Vardhan, Hon‘ble Minister for Science & Technology, Govt. of
India, as the Chief Guest; and thousands of women scientists, teachers and researchers from all across
the country. The event was addressed by world famous scientists as Prof. Anil Kakodkar, Prof. M. S.
Swaminathan, father of Green Revolution in India, Prof. K. VijayRaghavan, Principal Scientific Adviser
to the Government of India, Prof. Manju Sharma (Convener), former Secretary to the Govt. of India, Dr
Renu Swarup, Secretary to the Govt. of India, Department of Biotechnology, Dr Balram Bhargava,
Secretary to the Govt. of India, Department of Health & Family Welfare, five foreign scientists from
different countries and several others. The recommendations are under printing to be sent to all
concerned.
Science Education Programmes in joint collaboration with National Science Academies NASI, together with other two Science Academies - Indian National Science Academy, New Delhi and
Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore jointly sponsors the Summer/Winter Research Fellowship
under the joint Science Education Panel to provide opportunities to bright UG and PG students and
teachers to usefully spend their summer/winter vacations.
Annual Session/Symposia/Seminars & Scientific Discussions Recently, the Academy organised the 87th Annual Session and a Symposium on ‗Basic Research - its
role in national development‘, held on 8-10 December, 2017 at Savitribai Phule Pune University,
Ganeshkhind Road, Pune. More than 600 researchers and scientists participated in each of these events.
Other seminars/symposia were also organised by NASI.
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Fellowship / Membership To recognize the outstanding scientific contributions of the scientists, the Academy awards every year
the prestigious Fellowship/Membership to some of them. More than 100 scientists working in different
areas of Science & Technology were selected from all across the country in the year 2017. It also
awarded a few Foreign Fellowships to scientists who are working in different countries and have
collaborated with scientists from India.
Singhania Library Library services were enriched through digitization of the library and subscribing more books. The
library is connected to National Knowledge Network (NKN); Internet facility is being provided to
the students and research scholars free of cost.
Recognition and Awards- The following awards were given in the year 2017-18:
NASI-Reliance Industries Platinum Jubilee Awards for the Application Oriented
Innovations covering both Physical and Biological Sciences to four distinguished scientists;
NASI-Young Scientist Platinum Jubilee Awards to about dozen young scientists/researchers
in the fields of Biological/Physical/ Chemical Sciences;
11th NASI Scopus Awards to 9 young scientists/researchers;
NASI-Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee Fellowships;
Professor M. G. K. Menon Memorial Award;
NASI – Swarna Jayanti Puruskars for Best Paper Presentation to about dozen young
scientists/researchers, in the 87th Annual Session;
NASI – Springer Awards for Best Paper Presentation to about dozen young
scientists/researchers, in the Annual Session (started in 2015 in collaboration with the Springer
India Pvt. Ltd.);
Memorial Lecture Awards to about 15 eminent scientists;
NASI – Science and Maths Teacher Awards by NASI HQ & Chapters to many teachers.
Handing-over of Brahmaputra Gallery to the Govt. of Assam at Guwahati, Assam; and establishment of
Cauvery Gallery at Mysuru
Following the establishment of Ganga Gallery in the year 2011 at NASI Headquarters,
Allahabad, the Academy established another river gallery on Brahmaputra River in Guwahati,
Assam in 2015; which is now being handed over to the Govt. of Assam; but it will remain as the
joint property of NASI and Assam Govt.
The work on the third gallery on River Cauvery has also been completed at Mysuru, Karnataka
with the major support from the Government of Karnataka.
Evaluation of the Projects/Ideas of Amateur Scientists & Others, Communicated by the DST The Academy has been regularly helping since last several years the DST, New Delhi by getting the
ideas/projects of the amateur scientists evaluated by the Fellows/Members of the Academy.
NASI undertakes review of its programmes; and time to time impact assessment is also done to
quantitatively evaluate return from S&T. The different comments (including the comment of the Hon‘ble
Minister of Science & Technology, Government of India, who visited the Academy in June 2016; and also
graced the Mega event in March 2018) are the record of such efforts and endeavours.
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Activities
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2. Activities
2.1. Activities with emphasis on Scientific Awareness and Human Resource Development
2.1.1. Report on the Successful organization of scientific paper-writing workshop at HAU,
Hisar held on April 18-19 2017.
Prof. Saroj S. Jeet Singh, CCSHAU, Hisar delivered the welcome address in the aforesaid
workshop. Prof. Paramjit Khurana, University of Delhi, the coordinator of the workshop,
talked about the rationale of organizing such workshop and also briefed the researchers on
significance of scientific writing. Prof. Anupam Varma, INSA Senior Scientist, Advanced
Centre for Plant Virology, Indian Agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi delivered his
address as Guest of Honour on this occasion. Prof. Manju Sharma, NASI Distinguished
Woman Scientist Chair & former Secretary to the Govt of India, DBT, New Delhi, delivered
the inaugural address as the Chief Guest . While mentioning about the Science & Society
mandate of NASI, she referred to the series of such workshops organized by NASI with the
sole motive to educate the young researchers and make them learn the art of communicating
and writing Science. Prof. K.P.Singh, Hon‘ble Vice Chancellor delivered the Presidential
Remarks while Prof. U.C. Srivastava, General Secretary (HQ), NASI proposed the vote of
thanks. The session was conducted by Dr. Niraj Kumar, ES, NASI.
The event included four Technical Sessions. The first Technical Session was chaired by Prof.
Anupam Verma. Prof. Paramjit Khurana spoke on ‗Introducing the concept of scientific
writing‘. A lecture on ‗Intricacies of scientific writing in Plant/Agriculture Science‘ was also
delivered by a senior faculty member of the university. The second Technical Session was
chaired by Prof. Paramjit Khurana. Prof. U.C. Srivastava elaborated on ‗Art of Project
Writing‟. In the third Technical Session Prof. Anil K. Tripathi, Director, CIMAP, Lucknow,
delivered a Special Address; and Dr. Shelly Praveen, IARI, New Delhi spoke on ‗Scientific
Project Writing- How to make it work‟. The session was chaired by Prof. Paramjit
khurana. Prof. Anil K. Tripathi was also conferred an award by the chairperson on this
occasion for delivering his lecture. In the last Technical Session, Dr. Mahesh Chandra
Agarwal, Formerly ICAR National Fellow, talked about the ‗Veterinary Science Paper-
Presentation Techniques‘ and Dr. P P Srivastava, CIFE, Mumbai spoke on ‗Solving the
Statistical Problem- Example from Fisheries‟. The session was chaired by Prof. U. C.
Srivastava. The last phase of the event observed a Panel Discussion between the experts and
the researchers, providing an interactive atmosphere followed by the Valedictory Session. The
technical sessions were coordinated by Dr. Santosh Shukla AES, NASI and Ms. Archana
Pant, YWS, NASI. Vote of thanks was given by Dr. Seema Parmar, CCSHAU, Hisar.
(Highlights: More than 300 participants; technological skill imparted; interactive
discussion held with eminent scientists).
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2.1.2. Establishment of Cauvery gallery
Godess Cauvery (Statue in the gallery) Diagramatic Design of the Gallery
River Cauvery is among the most sacred rivers in the southern region of India and thought to be the
Dakshina Ganga or Ganga of Tamil Nadu on account of its diverse characteristics and attributes.
Originating from the Brahmagiri Hill in the Western Ghats and flowing towards the Bay of Bengal,
the river travels along the States of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in the southeastern direction. River
Cauvery is well inscribed in Tamil literature because of its holy importance and sacredness. Bathing
in holy water of Cauvery is one of the traditional beliefs in India; the striking Shivasamudram falls of
Cauvery River is the second biggest water falls in the country.
In view of these facts, and at the request of Hon‘ble Minister for Higher Education and Tourism,
Govt. of Karnataka, Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Chairman, Karnataka Knowledge Commission requested
Dr. Manju Sharma, Coordinator, River-gallery Projects, NASI, to establish a Cauvery Gallery on
similar lines with Ganga Gallery and Brahmaputra Gallery. Dr Mrs. Sharma, with the consent of the
NASI Council, sent a preliminary intent proposal to establish a high-quality Gallery that captures the
etymological, ecological, cultural, heritage and social characters of River Cauvery.
Exhibits installed in the gallery
(Highlights: The Cauvery Gallery has been established now, with the help of NCSM,
Kolkata and major financial support of the Department of Tourism, Government of
Karnataka. Interactive multimedia with diorama, animation, graphics and 3-D display
have been used to make the gallery totally interactive and interesting for the visitors).
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2.1.3. Science Communication Activities
National Technology Day: The National Technology Day was observed by NASI on May
11, 2017; and its theme for the year was ‗Science & Technology for skill Development‘. The
participants included UG and PG research students as well as the faculty members from the
University of Allahabad. The Director of MNNIT, Allahabad graced the occasion as the Chief
Guest. The distinguished speakers including Prof. S.L. Srivastava, Coordinator, Science
Communication Programme of NASI, Prof. C. K. Dwivedi, and Prof. Ravindra Dhar,
University of Allahabad, shared their views on India‘s technological achievements and also
emphasized the scientific advancements reflecting the scientific prowess of the country. Prof.
Pramod Tandon, CEO, Biotech Park, Lucknow presided over the function.
(Highlights: More than 200 participants. Enthused students for skill enhancement).
Awareness Programme for Defence Personnel: NASI organized a one-day Awareness
Programme for Defence Personnel on May 15, 2017 at ITBP SHQ, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha.
The welcome speech was delivered by the Dr. Shashi Bala Singh, DG(LS), DRDO. Prof.
(Mrs.) Manju Sharma, NASI Distinguished Woman Scientist Chair & former Secretary,
Government of India, inaugurated the programme. The eminent scientists interacted with the
defence personnel and answered their queries .They discussed the following topics –
Agriculture (Agri diversity and employment) with Dr. Ajay Parida, Director, ILS
Bhubaneshwar;
Nutrition (Anti- oxidant & prevention is better than cure) with Prof. U. C. Srivastava, GS,
NASI;
Health related issues with Dr. P.K Seth, former Director, IITR,Lucknow;
Community Medicine with Dr. Sanghmita Pati, Director, RMRC, Bhubaneshwar; and
High Altitude Problems with Dr. K.P. Mishra, Scientist, DIPAS.
The Academy also conveyed about some referral centres, which can solve the problems of
Jawans scientifically. At the end of the programme, Dr. Santosh Shukla, Assistant Executive
Secretary, NASI, proposed the vote of thanks to all the dignitaries and participants, present on
the occasion.
(Highlights: More than 150 participants.Queries of Jawans were solved at their centre).
World Environment Day: NASI celebrated the World Environment Day on June 5, 2017.
Dr. Tapan Chakrabarti, NEERI, Nagpur was the key note speaker on the occasion. While
elucidating the significance of the programme, he stated that World Environment Day is
celebrated to increase the awareness on the emerging environmental issues like waste
disposal, deforestation, marine pollution, global warming etc. He encouraged the participants
to actively participate in the celebration and become an active agent in developing
environmental safety measures. He also encouraged them to make their nearby surrounding
safe and clean to enjoy safer, cleaner and more prosperous future.
(Highlights: Students took oath to conserve the nature).
Summer School-2017:
NASI organized the ‗Summer School‟ for the intermediate college science students on June
2-11, 2017. The programme was organized in two phases / parts; the first phase was organized
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from June 2-5, 2017 at NASI HQ in Allahabad while the concluding / second part was
observed from June 6-11, 2017 at Dehradun. Around 300 participants from various schools of
Allahabad and other cities/states including the science teachers, attended the programme. The
students were enthused by the eminent scientists from various institutions who delivered
interesting talks elucidating various concepts/ phenomena of different streams of science. The
scientific concepts were further illustrated with demonstrations and hands-on experiments by
the scientists. The Inaugural Session of the pogramme commenced with the welcome address
by Prof. U.C Srivastava, General Secretary, NASI. Prof. Rajeev Tripathi, Director,
MNNIT, Allahabad graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Prof. Ravindra Dhar, the
convener of the programme, briefed about the schedule and various activities to be held
during the Summer School. Prof. S. L. Srivastava, Coordinator, Science Communication
Programme, NASI delivered the Presidential Remarks while Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive
Secretary, NASI proposed the vote of thanks. During the technical sessions, the eminent
scientists Prof. C.K. Dwivedi, Department of Electronics and Communication, University of
Allahabad and Prof. Ravindra Dhar, MNNIT Alld. enlightened the students; and also
demonstrated experiments on various scientific concepts. Prof. Krishna Misra, NASI Senior
Scientist, CBMR, SGPGI, Lucknow explained about the advancements in Biotechnology.
After the lectures, the students were segregated into two groups viz. Mathematical and
Biological Sciences. The students of Mathematics group were taught under the guidance of
Prof. Satya Deo, NASI Senior Scientist, HRI, Allahabad and Dr. B. Tripathi, CMP Degree
College, Allahabad, while the students of Biological Sciences were enlightened by the lecture
of Prof. U. C. Srivastava. Prof. D.K. Chauhan, Department of Botany, University of
Allahabad and Dr. Chitranjan Kumar, Technical Editor, NASI, also delivered lectures and
gave practical demonstration on the concepts related to Biological Sciences.
The students also visited Jawahar Planetarium, Allahabad, where Dr. Pramod Pande,
Director of Jawahar Planetarium Allahabad explained intresting facts about the universe and
celestial bodies.
The second part of the ‗Summer School‘ was organized at DITU, Dehradun from June 6, 2018
onwards. Lectures were given by the mentors of the sessions and experts from DITU and
students were taken to Physics, Chemistry, Architecture, Pharmacy, Electrical/Electronics,
and Communication laboratories, where they were exposed to various experimental sessions.
The participants also visited Forest Research Institute and UCOST (Vigyan Dhaam)
Dehradun. The programme concluded with the Valedictory Session; a trip to Malsi Deer Park
was also made by the students after the function.
(Highlights: Hands- on -Training imparted to students; and students also visited the
esteemed institutions).
Science & Technology Sensitization Programme organized by NASI on June 09 to 10,
2017 at Kumaun University:
NASI organized a two-day workshop in collaboration with Kumaun University, Nainital,
Uttarakhand on June 9-10, 2017, as part of its science & society endeavour to sensitize the
researchers including women on S&T related issues and provide a forum for exchange of
ideas and dissemination of knowledge in the society. Over 200 participants from the
university including members of faculties, research scholars and post graduate students
participated in the workshop focusing on two main features viz. ‗Sensitization for
technological empowerment of women‘ and ‗Science Paper Writing‘.
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The inaugural session of the program commenced with the welcome address by Dr. R.
Dhobal, DG, UCOST, Dehradun. Prof. Manju Sharma, NASI-DST Distinguished
Woman Scientist Chair & formerly Secretary to the Government of India, while
portraying the mandate of the NASI, highlighted its efforts towards pursuing the same
through its scientific endeavous. She stressed upon the urgent need of technological
empowerment of women in Uttarakhand and importance of science education for women
who could be the role models in promoting Science.Prof. Paramjit Khurana,
Department of Plant Molecular Biology,University of Delhi, South Campus, delivered the
key note address on ‗Gender sensitization: Changing the mindsets, stressing on the need to
provide equal opportunity and right to women. Revealing the contribution of women to
agriculture, industry, health care, medical and other services, she referred to various
barriers faced by women, particularly the mindset of the society about the competence of
women to pursue science, which must be changed. She dwelt on the importance of
women entrepreneurship, and highlighted the contributions of some prominent women
entrepreneurs like Dr. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw.Prof. K.S. Valdiya, Honorary Professor,
Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bangaluru and the Guest of
Honour on the occasion stressed upon the urgent need of science and technology
sensitization/ outreach programs for students residing in remote areas of Uttarakhand.
Prof. D.K. Nauriyal, Hon‘ble Vice Chancellor, Kumaun University, Nainital while
delivering the inaugural address, welcomed all the distinguished NASI delegates and
participants and further stressed on the need of academic collaboration of NASI with the
faculties and students of the Kumaun University to work for upgrading the science and
technology for the development of Uttarakhand. At the end of the session, Dr. Niraj
Kumar, Executive Secretary, NASI proposed the vote of thanks to all dignitaries and
participants for their contribution and support towards organizing this event.
After the inauguration of the workshop, the scientific sessions were held on two themes
viz. Sensitization for the Technological Empowerment of Women and Science Paper
Writing. The Scientific Session on Sensitization for the Technological Empowerment
of Women was chaired by Prof. S.P. Singh, Formerly Vice Chancellor, HNB Garhwal
University. Dr. Smita Mahale, Director National Institute for Research in Reproductive
Health (NIRRH)-ICMR, Mumbai, while elaborating on ‗Women Reproductive Health:
Issues, Advances and Challenges‘, stressed on reproductive disorders among women and
significance of genotypes. Prof. Surekha Kishore, Dean (Academics), Head, Department
of Community and Family Medicine, AIIMS, Rishikesh elucidated on ‗Technological
Empowerment of Women for Social Development‘ and also focused on the problems of
women adding that women have less access to technology and they need to be empowered
with the scientific tools. Prof. S. P. Singh delivered a lecture on ‗Scientific Paper
Writing‘. He explained the relevance of communicating research based on observation
and experimentation. He also briefed on data analysis. The second Scientific Session was
chaired by Prof. S.S. Bargali, Department of Botany, Kumaun University, Nainital. The
distinguished speakers were Dr. Neelima Kshirsagar, National Chair, Clinical
Parmacology, ICMR, Govt. of India, NIRRH, Mumbai, who spoke on ‗Medical Therapy
for High Risk Patients‘ and Dr. Suchitra Banerjee, NASI Senior Scientist, CSIR-
CIMAP, Lucknow, who shared her expertise on ‗Spotlight on Medicinal and Aromatic
Plants: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Potential and Employment Opportunities‘.
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L-R-Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma (the Chairperson) sharing the major recommendations during the concluding
session with Prof. Paramjit Khurana & Dr. C.S. Nautiya (the Co-chairs); a view of audience
The Technical Session on Science Paper Writing was chaired by Dr. C.S. Nautiyal,
Director, National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow. Dr. Shubhra
Chakraborty, Staff Scientist-VII (Professor), National Institute of Plant Genome
Research (NIPGR), New Delhi elaborated on ‗Art of Scientific Writing: Passion,
Expectations, Challenges & Success‘. Dr. Preeti Joshi, Professor and Head, Department
of Biophysics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS),
Bangaluru elaborated on ‗Essential Components of Effective Science Presentations‘.
Explaining about different types of presentations such as Research paper presentation,
Poster presentation, Lab group meeting, Journal club, Thesis presentation, Job talk,
Informal group meetings, Leading a discussion etc., she laid emphasis on two key aspects
i.e. the content and the delivery of the subject matter. Dr. Satyanarayana, Former Sr.
DDG, ICMR spoke on ‗Ethics in Science and Technology with Focus on Scientific
Publication‘ and stressed on ethical values in Science & Research expressing that
falsification, plagiarism and manipulating research material are such practices that need to
be avoided.
The Concluding / Valedictory Session of the workshop was graced by Prof. D.K.
Nauriyal, Hon‘ble Vice Chancellor, Kumaun University as the Chief Guest, Prof. (Mrs.)
Manju Sharma as the Chair and Dr. C.S. Nautiyal as Co-Chair. Prof. Rajeev Upadhyay,
Department of Geology, Kumaun University and Prof. S.S. Bargali, Department of
Botany, Kumaun University also joined the session. The programme was conducted by
Ms. Archana Pant, Young Women Scientist, NASI.
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The valedictory session underway
At the end of the valedictory session of the workshop, Ms. Archna Pant of NASI proposed
the vote of thanks expressing her gratitude to all for their efforts and support, to make the
event a grand success.
(Highlights: Over 200 participants attended the programme; the students interacted
with experts on the health related issues as well as ethics in science paper writing).
Physics Workshop: NASI organized a Physics Workshop (NWUPT-2017) from June 13-
18, 2017 in its HQ, Allahabad. While explaining the rationale of such workshops, Prof. H. C.
Verma IIT, Kanpur briefed on different concepts of Physics, based on which the
demonstrations/hands-on and extended experiments were performed by a team of experts. The
topics included Hydrostatics, Optics, Mechanics, Heat and Sound, B.N Das Demo, Mechanics
Demo, Pre test on Mechanics etc. The participants were also educated on such concepts as
working with Graphs, Refraction, Mechanics Numericals, and Venier/image/C&F (BND) etc.
Dr. Samar Bagchi explained the Newton Law and talked on Environment/optics and
Numerical distribution. On the last day of the event, during the valedictory session of the
workshop, the participants shared their feedback.
(Highlights: About 30 teachers were given hands-on-training to conduct 150
experiments).
Brainstorming on safe water and sanitation- Road to Swachh Bharat:
A three-day Brainstorming Session of National level, on safe water and sanitation was
organized on September 15-17, 2017 at NASI, Allahabad. The inaugural session was
attended by many distinguished scientists and technical experts from all over the country.
Welcome address of the event was delivered by Dr. Amit P. Sharma (ICGEB, New Delhi).
The Key Note address on ‗A review of the current status of Community Water Supply
and Sanitation in the country‟ was delivered by Prof. K. J. Nath, (President IPHE, India).
Prof Satya Deo, (Former Vice Chancellor, APS University, Rewa; Emiritus Professor at HRI
Allahabad) was the Guest of honour of the event. Prof. Anil Kakodkar, former Chairman,
Atomic Energy Commission, & President NASI, delivered the Presidential Address. Prof.
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Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR-IITR, Lucknow, proposed the vote of thanks. During the
inaugural function, a book on Safe Water, edited by Prof. K J Nath and Late Prof. V. P.
Sharma was also released. After the inaugural function the technical sessions were conducted
by the eminent scientists from all across the country. The main speakers included Prof. Amit
Ghosh, Prof. T. Pradeep, Dr. Nimish Shah, Dr. N. B. Basu, Dr. Tapan Chakrabarti,
Prof. H. K. Pandey and other distinguished scientists.
(Highlights: Discussion held on Policy Issues on Safe Water & Sanitation).
Workshop on „Interface of Biology & Chemistry‟: NASI, organized a two-day workshop
on ‗Interface of Biology & Chemistry‘ on Oct 12-13, 2017 in Indian Veterinary Research
Institute, (IVRI) Izatnagar, Bareilly. Prof. Krishna Misra, IIIT, Allahabad was the
Convener of the programme. She gave a detailed portrayal of the history of the Academy, its
science and society mission; and highlighted its various activities. She briefed about the
purpose of organizing the workshop and schedule of the event. Dr. Achal Kumar Mishra,
DIOS, Bareilly was the Special Guest. Dr. Raj Kumar Singh, Director, IVRI, Bareilly
graced the occasion as the Chief Guest of the Programme; and Presidential remarks was given
by Prof. P. K. Seth, former Director, IITR & CEO, Biotech Park Lucknow. Dr. Santosh
Shukla, Assistant Executive Secretary, proposed the vote of thanks. During the Technical
sessions of the programme several renowned speakers shared their views on the subjects of
relevance. Dr. P.K. Seth, Biotech Park, Lucknow spoke on ‗Advancements in Biotechnology‘
and Prof. Krishna Misra elaborated on ‗Interface of Biology & Chemistry‘ (Technical
Session-1). Dr. Raj Malhotra, Director, Regional Science city, Lucknow shared his views on
‗Understanding Chemical Reactions.(Technical Session-2). Dr. Manvendra Tripathi,
Department of Health & Family Welfare, Lucknow delivered a lecture on ‗Prevention of
Mosquito genetic diseases‘ and Dr. Ajay Pratap Singh, Department of Mining & Minerals,
Lucknow spoke on ‗Soil Diversity in India‘ (Technical Session-3). Dr. Rupali Sethi,
University of Allahabad shared her vision on Chromatography and also gave demonstration
based on the concept while Dr. Sharda S Sanjay, ECC, Allahabad spoke about
‗Identification of elements by chemical analysis‘ and also demonstrated an experiment to
illustrate the notion (Technical Session -4). Vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Santosh
Shukla, NASI.
Sensitization Workshop on Technological Empowerment of Women at IIT, Guwahati
NASI, organized a two-day Sensitization Workshop on Technological Empowerment of
Women on Nov 03-04, 2017, at IIT, Guwahati. The event was organized in joint
collaboration with IIT, Guwahati to sensitize the women researchers on S&T related issues.
The inaugural session was coordinated by Dr. Niraj Kumar and Prof. Latha Rangan
(Organizing Secretary, Dept. of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT Guwahati). Prof. (Mrs.)
Manju Sharma (Advisor, New Initiatives, NASI), Prof. Gautam Biswas (Director, IIT
Guwahati) and Prof. Anil Kakodkar (President, NASI) addressed in the session.
After the inauguration of the workshop, the technical sessions were held on the following
topics:
1. Gender Sensitization: Changing the mindset.
2. Challenges of Women Scientists
3. Women Leaders in the New Era of Science and Technology
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4. Technological advancement & women
5. Role of Women in conservation of Biodiversity
6. Women and a Healthy Brain
7. Women under the frame of science and technology- from past to present
8. Gender sensitization in higher education institutions
Inaugural session underway L-R: Prof. Latha Rangan (Organizing Secretary, Dept. of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT
Guwahati), Prof. Gautam Biswas (Director, IIT Guwahati), Prof. Anil Kakodkar (President, NASI) and Prof. (Mrs.) Manju
Sharma (Advisor, New Initiatives, NASI)
Technical Sessions underway
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The lectures were divided into three sessions with three talks each. The first session was
chaired by Prof. Manju Sharma. Prof. Paramjit Khurana, Department of Plant Molecular
Biology, University of Delhi, South Campus spoke on Gender Sensitization: Changing the
mind set mentioning about the general psychology of the people regarding the gender bias
and ways to transform them. The talk on Challenges of Women Scientists involving some
inspirational keynotes from the famous book ‗Lilavati's Daughters‘ was delivered by Prof.
Rohini Godbole, Centre for High Energy Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore.
Prof. Latha Rangan, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT, Guwahati talked
on history of the women legendries in the field of science and technology, titled Women
Leaders in the New Era of Science and Technology.
The next session was chaired by Prof. Paramjit Khurana. An inspiring lecture on
Technological advancement & women was given by Prof. Veena Tandon, General
Secretary, NASI. Prof. Madhoolika Agrawal, Department of Botany, B.H.U, Varanasi, gave
certain insights on the contributions of the women of tribal populations in environmental
conservations, in her speech on Role of Women in conservation of Biodiversity. The
second session was concluded by a talk on Women and a Healthy Brain comprising
awareness on brain strokes by Prof. Padma V Srivastava, Dept of Neurology, AIIMS, New
Delhi. The participants and the dignitaries were also taken to a visit to the Brahmaputra
Gallery (established by NASI) displaying the specialties and the ethnicity of the river biome
through model exhibits, video documentaries, games and many more.
Next day, the third session was chaired by Prof. Veena Tandon. Prof. Rama Bhargava,
Dept of Mathematics, IIT, Roorkee gave a talk on Women under the frame of science and
technology-from past to present and also focused on the role of women in the field of
mathematics. Prof. Anumita Paul, Dept of Chemistry, IIT, Guwahati gave a talk on
Contribution of Women in Technology and also highlighted women‘s contributions in the
field of Nanotechnology and Medicine. The session was concluded by Dr. Archana Thakur,
Joint Secretary, UGC with a talk on Gender sensitization in higher education institutions
which included various schemes introduced by UGC for young girls in Higher Education
Institutions especially, against sexual harassments. In the end, there was an open discussion
session with speakers and participants coordinated by Prof. Paramjit Khurana and chaired by
Prof. Mrs. Manju Sharma and introduced by Prof. P. S. Robi, Deputy Director, IIT Guwahati.
Prof. Anil Kakodkar, President, NASI gave the concluding remarks.
(Highlights: Young Women Scientists were enthused to come forward to take-up the
challenges of life).
Workshop on Entrepreneurship & Hands-on Training for Skill Development held at
Deendayal Research Institute (DRI), Chitrakoot, Satna on November 15-16,2017
The event was organized in joint collaboration with NASI and DRI to sensitize the youngsters
on various facets of entrepreneurship and motivate them towards developing science and
technology based entrepreneurship for becoming self-reliant. Around 200 students including
UG, PG students and research scholars, having science and agriculture background; as well
the members of faculties from nearby regions viz. M.P., U.P., Jharkhand, Bihar and
Bundelkhand region attended the workshop.
Many eminent dignitaries including Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma, Advisor, New Initiatives,
NASI; & Former Secretary to Govt. of India, New Delhi; Prof. V. P. Kamboj, Formerly
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Director, CDRI, Lucknow; and Past President, NASI, Dr. N.C. Gautam, VC, Mahatma
Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramoday Vishwavidyalaya, Dr. Purnima Sharma, Managing Director,
BCIL, New Delhi, Prof. Rohit Srivastava, IIT, Mumbai, Dr. Ashok Pandey, Coordinator,
DRI, Prof. C.K. Dwivedi, University of Allahabad, Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive Secretary,
NASI, Dr. Santosh Shukla, Assistant Executive Secretary, NASI were present to grace the
occasion. Other experts included Dr. Anil Jaiswal (DRI), Dr. R.L.S. Sikarwar (DRI), Prof.
Shivesh Pratap Singh, (Dept of Zoology, Govt PG College, Satna), Dr. Rajesh Saxena
(Senior Principal Scientist, MPCOST, Bhopal), Dr. I. P. Tripathi (Coordinator, NASI-BER
Chapter), Dr. Manoj Tripathi (DRI), Shri Manoj Saini (Coordinator, NASI-BER Chapter),
Prof. (Mrs.) Rashmi Singh (Dept of Zoology, Govt PG College, Satna), Dr. Vijay Pratap
Singh (DRI), Dr. Ram Prakash Sharma (DRI), Dr. Rajesh Dubey, Dr. R.C. Tripathi
(MGCGVV), Dr. Anees F Rizwi (IASc), Ms Archna Pant (NASI), Shri Ankit Kumar
(NASI), Shri I.D.Shukla (NASI), Shri Nathoo Kushwaha (DRI), Mr. Mohd. Mashkoor
(NASI) and Mr. Abhishek Pratap Singh (DRI).
Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma while stating the relevance of such programmes, stressed on the
role of women in promoting an entrepreneurship. She appreciated the efforts of the
Department of Science and Technology for launching various schemes aimed at providing
opportunities to women scientists having break in their career due to their family
responsibilities. She also referred to other schemes of the government of India viz. Beti
Bachao, Beti Padhao, stating that women are 50% of the human resource and their
contribution is must for the national development. While referring to Dr. Homi Bhabha‘s
viewpoint, focusing on S&T based entrepreneurship for women she stated that more than 70%
women doing farm work and agriculture face a lot of drudgery. NASI and ICAR have jointly
made efforts for mechanization of farm equipments/ development of women-friendly tools
and instituted an award also to promote research in this area. She stressed on the relevance of
skilled human resource for making a powerful society. Dr. N.C. Gautam, the Chief Guest on
the occasion, while delivering the inaugural address appreciated NASI‘s efforts to instigate
such activity and reiterated the vision of Nanaji Deshmukh, to develop a model for the
progress and transformation of rural areas, hence the entire country, into a self-reliant through
total development with people's initiative and participation. Prof. V.P. Kamboj delivered the
presidential remarks. Conceptualizing the theme of the workshop he made various
illustrations viz. NIRMA, Pay TM; and explicated how the things were introduced in the
market with the advent of technologies. He narrated various instances which compelled start-
ups for creating a big enterprise and also pointed out that Biotechnology has offered modern
medical devices for diagnostic and preventive purposes which include diagnostic test kits and
vaccines. He also mentioned the achievements of biotechnology in various diagnostics and
other areas viz. device for the detection of the hearing capacity of the new born, naval fecal
device etc.
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Dignitaries addressing the audience during the Inaugural Session
Prof. ( Mrs.) Manju Sharma, Dr. V. P. Kamboj, Dr. N.C. Gautam & Dr. Ashok Pandey
The first Session on ‗Thematic Approach towards Entrepreneurship development‟ was
chaired by Prof. Manju Sharma. Dr. Purnima Sharma spoke on ‗Various Funding
Opportunities Available for Biotech Enterprises‘. Highlighting the Government‘s Startup
initiative, Dr. Sharma talked about the major products/ services of the Indian Biotechnology
Industry in different sectors. The second part of her talk comprised the funding opportunities
and sources of funding available for commercialization and various funding patterns under
different schemes/ programmes of various government agencies. Dr. Rajesh Saxena, Senior
Principal Scientist, MPCOST, Bhopal spoke on ‗Avenues in Different Sectors‟. Elucidating
the concept, Dr. Saxena gave a detailed portrayal of different types of entrepreneurship and
also underlined the opportunities for creating an enterprise in different sectors in context of
rural areas. The session was coordinated by Ms Archna Pant, Young Woman Scientist,
NASI. The second session on ‗Hands-on Training for skill Development‟, basically
proposed to sensitize and motivate the youngsters on various facets of entrepreneurship was
jointly organized by NASI and DRI in which the coordinators demonstrated on diverse
processes. Prof. Shivesh Singh, Secretary, NASI-BER Chapter gave a brief sketch about
various S&T based activities/processes being carried out at DRI (on which the participants
were imparted guidance/training); and the coordinators of the respective training groups were
invited to brief on their respective areas of expertise for providing demonstration/ training to
the participants. Dr. I. P. Tripathi, Coordinator, NASI-BER Chapter, proposed the vote of
thanks to NASI and DRI teams.
For organizing/performing the demonstration and hands-on training on the said activities, the
students were split up into different groups of activities as per different training modules
available at DRI/Arogyadham. The courses under which the students were provided training
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included 1. Medicines from Herbal Plants (including Chyawanprash & Other Ayurvedic
preparations);coordinators- Dr. R.L.S. Sikarwar & Dr. Vijay Pratap Singh, DRI; 2.
Vermicomposting & Mushroom Cultivation; coordinators- Dr. Ram Prakash Sharma, DRI; 3.
Honey Processing & Extracts from Fruits/ Herbal plants; coordinators- Prof. Rashmi Singh,
Govt PG College, Satna & Dr. Manoj Tripathi, DRI; 4. Food processing; coordinators- Dr. A.
F. Rizvi, IASc, Allahabad & Mr. Nathoo Kushwaha, DRI; 5. Screen Printing; coordinators-
Dr. Rajesh Dubey, DRI; 6.Herbal Cosmetic Products; coordinators-Dr. R. C. Tripathi & Mr.
Abhishek Pratap Singh, DRI; 7.Demonstration on Solar Panel & LED; coordinators- Prof. C.
K. Dwivedi, UoA assisted by Mr. Mohd. Mashkoor, NASI. Before initiating the
training/demonstration, the coordinators of the respective groups introduced the theme
(concept) of the respective activity/ process and after elaborating on the methodology,
demonstration was made. After the training/demonstration, the literature/protocol (with
details) was also distributed to the participants.
On the consecutive day, the third session on ‗Awareness about funding Agencies‟
was chaired by Dr. R.L.S. Sikarwar, DRI, Chitrakoot. The speakers included Dr. Rohit
Srivastava, Department of Biosciences & Bioengineering, IIT, Mumbai and Shri Manoj Saini,
DRI. Dr. Rohit Srivastava elaborated on ‗Funding Opportunities‟. He mentioned various
DBT-BIRAC schemes and gave a detailed description of various diagnostic devices used in
health care system. Shri Manoj Saini shared his views on ‗Scope for developing an
enterprise‟. Highlighting the tremendous scope of entrepreneurship development in India, he
described about various activities being accomplished at DRI, working on Ayurveda System
in field of health; and further stated that 'Arogya Dham' has started its own pharmacy where
all the medicines manufactured are in accordance with the Ayurvedic transcripts.
To conclude the event there was an Interactive Session as well as Panel Discussion
followed by the Valedictory Session. The session was chaired by Prof. (Mrs.) Manju
Sharma. Prof. V. P. Kamboj was the guest of honour and Shri Babulal Gaur, the former
Chief Minister of M.P. was the Chief Guest.
(Highlights: About 150 participants were given hands-on-training to acquire different
skills).
The Chief Guest Shri Babu Lal Gaur addressing the participants during the Valedictory Session
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During the interactive/concluding session, a brief summary of the two days‘ programme was
reported by Ms Archna Pant; and participants shared their experience. The session was
coordinated by Prof. Shivesh Pratap Singh.
A Student sharing her experience during the concluding session
Workshops on Understanding Basic Concepts of Mathematics:
NASI, Allahabad organized two workshops on ‗Understanding Basic concepts of
Mathematics‘ on November 30 & December 1, 2017 at Ganga Inter College, Basahi, &
Sardar Patel Inter College, Koraon, Allahabad respectively. Dr. B. Tripathi, CMP PG
College, Allahabad was the key speaker of the programme.
(Highlights: The students were enlightened on the various concepts of Mathematics;
models/exhibits were also displayed to illustrate/demonstrate the concepts).
National Mathematics Day: NASI, organized a two-day Workshop on “Groups and Symmetries” to celebrate the
National Mathematics Day on Dec. 22-23, 2017 at its head-quarter at Allahabad on the
auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of eminent mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan.
The main objective of the workshop was to arrange a series of popular lectures on modern
mathematics influenced by S. Ramanujan. It was attended by more than 250
students/researchers/teachers from all across the country.
The inaugural function was started with welcome address by Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive
Secretary, NASI & Local Coordinator of the workshop. Prof. Satya Deo, convener of the
workshop, NASI-Senior Scientist at HRI, Allahabad and former Vice-Chancellor, APS
University, Rewa, explained the main objectives of the workshop. He threw light on the
inspiring life of Ramanujan & his work on Number Theory. He also talked about how
Srinivasa Ramanujan became the great mathematician and one of the youngest Fellows of the
Royal Society. He told that in 2011, the Government of India declared 22nd
December as
National Mathematics Day in the memory of Srinivasa Ramanujan. Prof. Ramji lal, eminent
mathematician and former Head of the University of Allahabad expressed that the life of
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Ramanujan is an inspiration for young researchers and scientists as Ramanujan worked with
all odds; but proved his geniosity. According to Prof. H.K. Mukherjee, Mathematics
Department, NEHU, Ramanujan was a great mathematician in true sense. He also pointed out
that the duty of a teacher is to identify the talent of the student and nurture as per her/his
potential. The vote of thanks was proposed by Shri. A.K. Srivastava, Dy Executive Secretary
of the Academy.
The three speakers-Prof. Satya Deo, Prof. Ramji lal and Prof. H.K. Mukherjee delivered
lectures on ―Platonic Solids and their symmetries‖, ―Discrete and finite subgroups of classical
groups‖ and ―Groups of isometries of Euclidean, spherical and hyperbolic spaces‖
respectively during the workshop.
(Highlights: Celebration of National Mathematics Day; training imparted to young
mathematicians).
Dignitaries addressing the audience
Winter School:
NASI, organized a six-day Science Education & Awareness Programme from Dec 26 - 31,
2017. The programme witnessed the presence of many eminent speakers. Prof. Krishna
Misra, IIIT, Allahabad, spoke on ‗New Dimensions in Chemistry‘. Prof. Bechan Sharma,
Former Head, Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, shared his views on
‗Dietary Requirement for Sports Persons‘. Dr. Mohd. Masood, Executive secretary, IASc,
Allahabad spoke on ‗Water Quality and Health‘ and Mr. Suresh Kumar Dwivedi, KV,
Lucknow elaborated on ‗Lifestyle diseases and its Management‘ during the programme held
on Dec 26, 2017 at NASI HQ. Prof. D. K. Chauhan, Department of Botany, University of
Allahabad elucidated on ‗Nature‘s History Book‘. Prof. S.M. Prasad, Department of Botany,
University of Allahabad on ‗Photosyntheis‘. Prof. Satya Deo, NASI Senior Scientist, HRI,
Allahabad elucidated the concept of ‗Four Colour Problem‘. Mr. Pramod Parashar, Aligarh
and Dr. Nikhil Jain, Agra gave demonstrative lectures on ‗Understanding Basic Principle of
Physics‘ during the programme held on Dec 27, 2017 at NASI HQ. Mr. Suresh Kumar
Dwivedi, KV, Lucknow spoke on ‗Micro organisms: friends or Foe‘ and ‗Understanding
Depression‘ during the programme held on Dec 28, 2017 at NASI HQ. Prof. Pramod
Tandon, CEO, Biotech Park, Lucknow, elaborated on ‗Govt. intitatives in Biotechnology‘,
Prof. V. P. Kamboj, Former Director, CDRI, Lucknow spoke on ‗Scientific Discoveries‘
and Prof. Veena Tandon, NASI Senior Scientist, Biotech Park, Lucknow shared her vision
on ‗Biology Today-Integration of Omics Technologies‘ during the programme held on Dec
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29, 2017 at Biotech Park, Lucknow. Dr. R. K. Awasthi, Agra gave a demonstrative lecture
on ‗Understanding Casic principles of Physics‘ in Regional Science City, Lucknow during the
programme held on Dec 30, 2017 at Regional Science City, Lucknow. Dr. Manvendra
Tripathi, Department of Health, UP, Lucknow, lectured on Vector Borne Diseases & its
Management. Mr. Soheb Akhter, RSC, Lucknow gave a demonstrative lecture on ‗Wonders
of Science‘. Prof. P. K. Seth, former Director, IITR & CEO, Biotech Park, Lucknow spoke
on ‗Advancements in Neurosciences‘ during the programme held on Dec 31, 2017 at
Regional Science City, Lucknow.
(Highlights: About 200 school students were enthused and inspired to learn science with
fun).
National Science Day was celebrated on Feb. 28, 2018 at NASI, with Prof. Manju Sharma,
former Secretary to the GoI, as the Chief Guest, who also delivered an illustrative &
informative ‗Prof. MGK Menon Memorial Award (2017) Lecture‟ on this occasion. About
225 students, teachers and other distinguished guests attended the programme. Two science
teachers (Dr Nikhil Jain, Agra and Dr Sangeeta Gupta, Allahabad) were also awarded with
the NASI-Science Teachers Awards; and the programme was also addressed by Prof. Satya
Deo, Prof. S. L. Srivastava, Dr. Niraj Kumar and others.
(Highlights: Prof. MGK Menon Memorial Award Lecture).
„Mega Event-National Conference on Technological Empowerment of Women‟:
NASI successfully organized the ‗National conference on Technological Empowerment of
Women‘ under the convenership of Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma, NASI-Distinguished
Woman Scientist Chair, on March 08-09, 2018 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, to mark the
International Women‘s Day. The event supported by the reputed governmental and non-
governmental agencies viz. DST, DBT, CSIR, MoES, DRDO, ISRO, DAE, ICAR, ICMR,
Wellcome Trust, MAHYCO and other Industries, witnessed the participation of about 1000
women scientists/teachers/researchers from various universities, research institutions and
NGO‘s; and other distinguished dignitaries from across the country including Dr. Harsh
Vardhan, Hon‟ble Minister for Science & Technology, GoI, Prof. M S Swaminathan,
Prof. Anil Kakodkar, foreign delegates; and several high profile dignitaries/ officials of the
scientific departments/ agencies. Besides, the event was also graced by the women
representatives of the NASI-local chapters as well as the distinguished members of the NASI
Council. The issues included Biotechnology and Biomedical Research, Frontiers in Science &
Technology, Agriculture, Nutrition, Food Security, Health Care and Sanitation (Swastha and
Swachh Bharat Mission), Technology and Innovations, Skill Enhancement and Development,
Entrepreneurship Development (Start up and Make in India Programmes) and Employment
Generation– Avenues, Opportunities and Challenges. In addition to presentation of the papers
and discussion, foreign fellowships of NASI were conferred to the distinguished scientists
Prof. Karen Nelson, J. Craig Venter Institute, Rockville, USA by Hon‘ble Minister, S & T for
her outstanding contribution to the field of human microbiome and Prof. Dean E Brenner,
University of Michigan, USA by the President, NASI and Dr. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma, for his
contribution to Cancer Prevention Research. The National Women Bio-scientists Awards
were also conferred to Women Bio-Scientists under Senior and Young categories for their
contribution to the field of science and biotechnology by Hon‘ble Minister S&T. Dr. Kiran
Mazumdar–Shaw, Chairperson and Managing Director, Biocon Limited, Bangalore was
21
conferred upon Honorary Fellowship of NASI. Biotech WInER (Women in Entrepreneurial
Research) (BIRAC-TiE) Awards were also presented to the women scientists involved in
S&T based entrepreneurship by Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw. An Exhibition on ‗Women –
Impacting Technology Application and Commercialization‘, displaying scientific
models/exhibits and showcasing Women‟s work in Science and Science for Women by women-
tech entrepreneurs was inaugurated by Hon‘ble Minister, S&T on this occasion; a booklet
about various enterprises and their innovation and product development was also circulated
during the event, which is a source of inspiration for the budding women entrepreneurs. The
efforts of Prof. Manju Sharma and her team in organizing such a grand event were very much
appreciated.
(Highlights: The conference witnessed an Interaction & High-level Panel Discussion
among the women scientists/ tech-entrepreneurs/ Women Nobel Laureates/ dignitaries
from India and abroad to formulate long-term initiatives and evolve a strategy towards
technological empowerment of women).
Glimpses of the event: L-R: Prof. Anil Kakodkar, President, NASI felicitating Hon‟ble Minister, S&T; Dr. MS Swaminathan
addressing the audience;Hon‟ble Minister conferring upon the Foreign Fellowship to Dr. Karen Nelson (also seen on the dais-
Prof. Manju Sharma, Prof. Anil Kakodkar,Dr. Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary, DST, GoI, Prof. Paramjit Khurana and Dr. Pramod
Garg, AIIMS)
22
The Technical Sessions underway
2.1.4. Project/Studies/Activitites of Social Relevance-
NASI has many programmes for the promotion of Science & Technology interventions
for societal welfare as per its mandate “Science & Society”. The Academy is known for its
work done in the field of health & nutrition, safe water, farm mechanization, women
empowerment etc.
The Academy (NASI) has received an exclusive grant of Rs. 50 lakhs (for the first time),
released by the DST during the financial year 2016-17 for Scheduled Tribes Sub Plan; which is
in recognition of the Academy's work in the tribal areas, as North-East and Jharkhand; as well as
the specific work done for the tribal villages of Chhattarpur (rejuvenation of the baolies). As all
these works were reported to the DST, New Delhi, therefore, the DST has released the said
amount to give a boost to such programmes, in future.
The Council constituted a Committee comprising of Prof. Manju Sharma-Chairperson; Prof.
Pramod Tandon, Prof. S. L. Hoti and the two General Secretaries, to devise the guidelines and
formulation of programmes to ensure proper use of the fund specifically allocated under this
budget head.
A meeting of the members of Committee for ―Scheduled Tribe Sub-plan‖ was held on
September 18,2017 at NIPGR, New Delhi.
Prof. Manju Sharma, Chairperson of the aforesaid Committee contacted various
institutes/organizations/local chapters of NASI to come forwarded with several programmes for
which she developed a format and an illustrative list of areas in which proposal should be
submitted. Very good response was received. Total 19 proposals have been received and a
meeting of the aforesaid Committee was held on 7.12.2017 at Pune.
The proposals were scrutinized and recommended for approval of the NASI Council.
23
Following institutes/chapters are implementing the programme-
NASI-NER Chapter, Shilong
NASI-Jharkhand Chapter
NASI-BER Chapter, MP
NASI-Jammu Chapter
CIMAP, Lucknow
M.S.Swaminathan Research Foundation
Sri Padmavati Mahila Visva Vidyalayam (Women‘s University), Tirupati
Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak (MP)
ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi
Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odissa. (Highlights: Program is successfully implemented; all the tribals of different areas are the
direct beneficiaries).
Health & Hygiene Awareness Program in the Tribal areas of Lakhimpur-Kheeri district of Uttar Pradesh (L)
and Awareness/Sensitization/Training Programmes in Tribal Areas of Northeast India (R)
2.1.5 Successful organization of the 87th
Annual Session and Symposium on „Basic Research -
its role in National Development‟, held on 08-10 December, 2017 at Savitribai Phule Pune
University, Ganeshkhind Road, Pune –
The events were held very successfully with about 500 participants/delegates. Dr (Mrs)
Manju Sharma, Convener, Prof. Ashok Misra, Past President, NASI and Prof. KVR Chary,
Co-conveners made extensive efforts in developing a comprehensive programme of the
Symposium. Prof. Anil Kakodkar, President, NASI also took keen interest and provided his
valuable guidance. The presentations in the symposium were illustrative, informative and
critically analyzed different issues related to Basic Research. In the Scientific Sessions, about
250 researchers presented their research papers (oral/poster) on diverse topics of interest. The
Vice Chancellor, SPPU, Pune; Director, IUCAA, Pune and Dr Dipalee Malkhede,
Coordinator, NASI-Pune Chapter, extended full support to make this programme successful.
The recommendations are to be released shortly in the form of Proceedings.
The message of the Hon‘ble Prime Minister of India, received on this occasion; and a
photograph of the dais during the Inaugural Session is given on the next page-
24
Glimpes of 87th Annual session and Symposium
25
Activities related to Scientific Research
Swertia species
S. angustifoliaBuch.-Ham. ex D.
Don S. angustifolia var. pulchella (D. Don) Burkill.
S. bimaculata (Siebold & Zucc.) C.
B. Clarke
S. chirayita (Roxb. Ex Flem.) Karst.
S. corymbosa (Griseb.) White ex.
C.B. Clarke.
S. densifolia (Griseb.) Kashyapa.
S. dilatataC. B. Clarke
S. lawii Burkill.
S. minor (Griseb.) knobl.
S. nervosa (G. Don) C. B.
Clarke
S. paniculata Wall.
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Swertiamarin Mangiferin
RP-UFLC profiles
Swertia
chirayita
Antipyretic
Anti-oxidative
Anti-bacterial
Hepato-protective
Hypo-glycemic
BitterAnthelmintic
Anti-carcinogenic
Anti-inflammatory
Studies on medicinal plant :Swertia sps.
26
2.2 Activities related to scientific research
(A compilation of scientific reports, as submitted by NASI-Chairs and NASI-Senior Scientists for the
period April 01, 2017 – March 31, 2018)
(A) Prof. Ajoy Ghatak
Formerly at Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi;
M.N. Saha Distinguished Chair/Professor
1. Title/Theme of the work being done: I feel honored for being recipient of the NASI Professor
Meghnad Saha Distinguished Fellowship. In addition to doing research and giving special courses of
lectures (see Item # 2), I have been devoting a very significant part of my time to the promotion of
science to teachers, students and the society at large. For example, to commemorate 200 years of
Presidency College, we had organized a 1 day seminar on Journey of Science and Technology in
Indiaon September 2, 2017 at NIPGR Auditorium, New Delhi. It was attended by over 300 persons
including college teachers and students from Delhi University colleges. We are now trying to bring
out an (edited) volume of the proceedings.
2. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: During August-September
2017, I delivered a course of 20 lectures on Advanced Quantum Mechanics at IUAC (Inter University
Accelerator Center), New Delhi. In fact I have been giving this course of lectures for the last 9 years
or so. While delivering these lectures, I have developed new methods for teaching angular
momentum and the rotation operator in quantum mechanics including a new way to understand the
angular momentum of the photon. In 2017, I extensively rewrote our book on Quantum Mechanics
incorporating the new approach that I have developed through these lectures. Right now I am
correcting the Proofs of this extensively revised book on Quantum Mechanics.
I made detailed studies on the history of the development of science in India and prepared a
talk for the seminar on Journey of Science and Technology in India (see Item # 1 above).
Subsequently, I have written a 25 page paper with the title Development of Science in India: A Brief
Historical Perspective which will soon be published in a book in which I will be one of the editors.
Professor Ravi Varshney (IIT Delhi), Dr. Vipul Rastogi (IIT Roorkee) and I had developed a
user friendly simulation software LIGHTSIM (marketed by FIBEROPTIKA Technologies,
Bangalore); it is designed for students, researchers and telecom engineers to give better understanding
in fiber optics and fiber optic link design; see http://fiberoptika.com/product-lightsim.php and
http://fiberoptika.com/light-sim-broucher.pdf. We are continuously trying to make it better.
3. Publication(s)
i. Anirban Pathak & Ajoy Ghatak, Classical Light vs. Nonclassical Light: Characterizations and
Interesting Applications, Journal of Electromagnetic Waves and Applications, Vol. 32, pages
229-264, 2018.
ii. Based on the talk delivered at the seminar on Journey of Science and Technology in India (see
Item # 1 above), I have written a 25 page paper with the title Development of Science in
India: A Brief Historical Perspective which will soon be published in a book in which I will
be one of the editors.
27
iii. Based on the talks delivered at the 2 Workshops on Quantum Theory, I have written a 16
page article on Introduction to Quantum Theorywhich we are planning to publish as an
edited book in which I will be one of the editors.
4. Award/Honour/Recognition: I was invited to deliver a TEDx talk which, I think, is recognition
of my work. I spoke on Einstein &E=mc2; the TEDx talk can be seen at https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=p9n_Mr80elg
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s):
1. Talk on LASERS at ―National Faculty Development Program‖ at Shaheed Rajguru College,
DU (Delhi University) on 22July2017.
2. Keynote address on Evolution of Quantum Theory at Optical Society of America‘s IONS
program at CUSAT,Kochi on 11September2017.
3. Lecture on OPTICS & MODERN PHYSICS at Vidya School, Gurgaon on 13November2017
4. Course of lectures on Basic Quantum Mechanics at Kalindi College,DU(25October2017),
Amity University(23January2018), Bhaskaracharya College,DU(16March2018) & ARSD
College,DU(27March2018).
5. Delivered a public lecture on Einstein & E=mc2 at Gargi College,DU on 20March2018.
6. Science Day talk on Raman Effect at CSIR- CSIO Chandigarh on 28Feb2018
Prof. A. K. Ghatak delivering TEDx talk Prof. A.K. Ghatak delivering the talk on (on Einstein & E=mc
2) on September 17, 2017 Raman Effect at CSIR- CSIO,Chandigarh
during Science Day on 28 February, 2018
Prof. A. K. Ghatak with Dr. Manju Sharma, Dr. Anil Kakodkar, Mr. Hiranmay Karlekar and
Dr. Niranjan Chakraborty at the Inaugural function of the Seminar on Journey of Science &
Technology at the NIPGR Auditorium (September 2, 2017).
28
(B) Prof. Amit Ghosh,
National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkata,
NASI- JC Bose Distinguished Chair Professor
1. Summary of the work done during May 2016 to May 2017: Cholera, an acute
diarrhea! Disease caused by Vibrio Cholerae continues to be a major scourge in many
countries of the world. Although cholera can be treated by oral rehydration, antibiotic
treatment remains an useful adjunct therapy. Treatment with antibiotics shorten the duration of
the disease and reduce the stool volume, which in turn reduces the amount of fluid required to
maintain the appropriate level of hydration in the patient.
For a long time, till 1976, V. cholerae remained sensitive to most anti-microbial drugs
used in the treatment of cholera. But then primarily due to the indiscriminate use of
antibiotics it started developing resistance which has now become wide-spread, becoming a
cause for major concern. In our laboratory, we have been studying this phenomenon,
concentrating mainly on the strains isolated in Kolkata, a cholera endemic area. Apart from
monitoring the changing pattern of the emergence of resistance to different antibiotics in
different years, we have paid particular attention to the emergence of resistance due to the
transfer of antimicrobial-resistance-genes through the mobile genetic elements. One of such
notable genetic elements in V. Cholerae is the SXT/R391 family-Integrative conjugative element
(ICE), first identified in V. cholerae 0139 in 1993. The SXT/R391 ICE in V.cholerae usually
contributes to the resistance of V.cholerae to several antibiotics which includes
sulfarnethoxazole/trimethoprim, streptomycin and Chloramphenicol.
The ICEs are~99 kb self-transmissible mobile genetic elements (MGE) that can integrate
into the host bacterial chromosome, excise and transfer through conjugation. The backbone
of 1CEs is composed of 52 core genes, of which 25 are required for vital functions of
integration/excision, conjugative transfer andregulation. This genetic backbone serves as a
framework for the integration of DNA fragments located within the conserved sites of three
variable regions (VR1, VR2 and VR3) and five hotspots (HSI, HS2, HS3, HS4 and HS5). VRs
can confer ICE-specific features, such as multidrug and heavy-metal resistance, restriction
modification systems, and alternative metabolic pathways to the bacterial host. Differences
in the HS and VRs are responsible for ICE size dissimilarity and also the antimicrobial
resistance and fitness that characteristics of SXT/R391 ICEs.
The structure of ICEs in V. choleroe changes from time to time contributing to different
antibiotic resistance patterns. Therefore, it is important not only to know about their presence
in a V.cholerae strain but also their nature. In our continuing efforts to understand the
changing patterns of drug resistance in V.cholerae, weare constantly monitoring and
characterizing the V. cholerae strains isolated from the patients admitted into two hospitals in
Kolkata. In this report, we describe our finding for the strains isolated during 2013 to 2015.
29
Monitoring of the drug sensitivity pattern revealed that while all strains isolated during
2011-2013 were sensitive to tetracycline, resistance to this drug began to emerge 2014 onwards.
Thus, while only 2% of the strains isolated in 2014 showed resistance to tetracycline, this
number shot up to 56% in 2015. In contrast to above, the percentage of ampicillin resistant strains
steadily declined from 76% in 2011 to 20.8% in 2012 and then to 0% during 2013 to 2015.
Resistance to Chloramphenicol appeared to have an inversely proportional relationship with the
tetracycline resistance. Thus while in 2010, 90.6% of the strains had reduced susceptibility
to chloramphenicol as opposed to 9.4% for tetracycline resistance; in 2015 these numbers
became 37.9% and 56% for resistance to chloramphenicol and tetracycline respectively. As has
been pointed out earlier in this report, STX/STR elements encode resistance for
sulfarnethaxazole/trimethoprim. Streptomycin and chloramphenicol and the presence of this
element in V.cholerae displayed a kind of a "see-saw- pattern. Thus while in 2010, 98% of the
strains were resistant Streptomycin-Sulfamethaxazole in 2011 this number declined to 30.6%.
But then again the percentage of strains displaying resistance to these drugs went up, reaching a
value of 90% during 2013 to 2015. Analysis of the sequence of these genes in
representative isolates revealed the presence of two types of SXT elements. The first type, which
we named ICE Vch Ko11, carried a tetracycline efflux pump, while the second type similar to
ICE Vchln5, which is found to be associated with circulating V. cholerae ELTor worldwide,
harbored chloramphenicol efflux pumpfloR. Detection of ICE Vch Kol,whose presence
declined steadily from 9.4% in 2010 to 0% in 2013, shot up to 56% in 2015. In contrast, all
strains isolated onwards of 2008 (as reported elsewhere earlier) always carried ICE Vch ind5.
Pulse Field Gel Electrophoresis of representative strains showed that V. cholerae strains having
same type of SXT elements were clonally similar. Based on this, it turned out that while (out of the
eight representative strains selected) five strains isolated in 2013-14 and one in 2015 belonged to
one cluster, two strains isolated in 2015 belonged to a differentcluster where most of the other
strain occupying this clusters were isolated before. These results considered together with the
earlier ones obtained with strains isolated before 2012, once again shows why it is important to
study the pattern of emergence drug resistance of V. cholerae at different periods of time.
2. Publication(s)
i . "Vaccines for cho lera" Ghosh Amit.
In the Textbook of Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Allied and Molecular Medicine (Ed.
Talwar, G. P. Hasnain, S.E. and Sarin. S.K.) Prentice-l-tall India, 2016.pp:1331-1338.
i i . Carbapcnem Resistance in Clonally Distinct Clinical Strains of V.jhuvialis isolated
from Diarrheal samples.
Chowdhury, G., Pazhani, G.P., Sarkar, A., Rajendran. K., Mukhopadhyay, A.,
Bhattacharya, MK, Ghosh, Amit, Ramamurthy, T. Einerg. Infect. Dis. 22 (2016), 1754-1761.
i i i . Is the scare or Microbial Drug Resistance Reel. Ghosh, Amit.
30
(C ) Dr. V.M. Katoch,
Rajasthan University of Health Sciences, Jaipur,
NASI-ICMR Chair on Public Health Research
Theme : Programmes planned and being implemented by NASI-ICMR Chair at RUHS, Jaipur aim
at identifying important public health issues in Rajasthan; Assessing the level and profile of
research activities in Institutions in Rajasthan specially on public health issues; Assessing strengths
& challenges and suggesting methods to accelerate the progress in health research and undertaking
situation analysis and helping the state institutions in developing research cum action projects to
introduce indigenously developed technologies for diagnosis, prevention and management of
important public health problems.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: While during the first
year (2016-17), focus was on identifying the needs for health research in Rajasthan by
analyzing the morbidity pattern, published literature from medical and other institutions in
Rajasthan and interaction with faculty and Principals of Medical colleges/ State Health
authorities/ICMR institute, during the current year stress has been on developing research
programmes/ projects. Efforts have been made to encourage the potentially interested faculty
to develop interdisciplinary research studies as per felt needs and harmonize these with the
programmes of different units funded by Department of Health Research (DHR) namely
Multidisciplinary Research Units (MRUs), Virology Diagnostic Research Lab (VDRL), and
also Model Rural Health Research Unit (MRHRU). This is being done to synergize these
activities so that available resources are utilized optimally specially for initiating these
activities. By email and other communication methods as well as by personal visits to different
government medical colleges at Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Ajmer, we could help faculty
in these institutions to plan/ improve and finalize more than 60 research projects. Further, by
mentoring faculty of local SMS Medical College, RUHS Medical College and RUHS Dental
College, 24 studies have been finalized/ nearly half of them already initiated. These newly
initiated projects across the state deal problems related to important infectious diseases, NCDs,
MCH, mental health problems, genetic diseases, stem cell applications etc. Several of these
projects have been submitted for extramural support from RUHS and national agencies/ some
already funded. Identifying the gap in oral health services in neglected diseases like leprosy
was another highlight of the year. Intellectually supporting/ mentoring the RUHS to organize
three research methodology and project development workshops covering biostatist ics, ethics
and; developing the plans for a Genetics and Medical Biotechnology Centre for Research and
Training at University level were other important activities undertaken which will show impact
in the coming years.
2. Publications(s)
i. Predominance of Central Asian and European families among
Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates in Kashmir Valley, India.Bashir G, Wani T,
Sharma P, Katoch VM, Lone R, Shah A, Katoch K, Kakru DK, Chauhan DS.Indian J
Tuberc. 2017 Oct;64(4):302-308.
ii. Expression profile of CXCL12 chemokine during M. tuberculosis infection with
different therapeutic interventions in guinea pig.Rawat KD, Chahar M, Srivastava N,
31
Gupta UD, Natrajan M, Katoch VM, Katoch K, Chauhan DS. Indian J Tuberc. 2018
Apr;65(2):152-158. doi: 10.1016/j.ijtb.2017.08.006. Epub 2017 Aug 12.
iii. Proteomics of Culture Filtrate of Prevalent Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strains: 2D-
PAGE Map and MALDI-TOF/MS Analysis.
Kumar G, Shankar H, Sharma D, Sharma P, Bisht D, Katoch VM, Joshi
B.SLASDiscov. 2017
iv. Comparative study of genotypes of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from a Northern
Indian setting with strains reported from other parts of India and neighboring
countries.
Sharma P, Katoch K, Chandra S, Chauhan DS, Sharma VD, Couvin D, Rastogi
N, Katoch VM.Tuberculosis(Edinb).2017Jul;105:6072.doi:10.1016/j.tube.2017.04.003
. Epub 2017 Apr 10.
v. Research priorities in Maternal, Newborn, & Child Health & Nutrition for India: An
Indian Council of Medical Research-INCLEN Initiative.
Arora NK, Swaminathan S, Mohapatra A, Gopalan HS, Katoch VM, Bhan MK,
Rasaily R, Shekhar C, Thavaraj V, Roy M, Das MK, Wazny K, Kumar R, Khera A,
Bhatla N, Jain V, Laxmaiah A, Nair MKC, Paul VK, Ramachandran P, Ramji S,
Vaidya U, Verma IC, Shah D, Bahl R, Qazi S, Rudan I, Black RE; ICMR INCLEN
Research Priority Setting Network. Indian J Med Res. 2017 May;145(5):611-622.
vi. Singh DP (Research Fellow funded by NASI), Katoch VM. Analysis of profile of
publications from Rajasthan on medical and biomedical research related to mother &
child health and selected NCDs. (manuscript prepared).
3. Award/ Honour/ Recognition: Delivered First Anji Reddy Memorial Oration and Dr. TC
Anand Kumar Memorial Oration
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s): During 2017-18, I delivered 27 invited talks (including orations,
key notes, plenary talks, inaugural addresses etc) on wide range of subjects like leprosy,
tuberculosis, NTMs, influenza/other viral diseases, point of care technologies, access to quality
health care services, pharmaceutical sciences, environmental health, reproductive health including
ARTs/PCOs, NCDs, genetics and genomics, epigenetics and epigenomics, integrative medicine
etc. I continued to share my expertise with Govt. and Non-Govt. Institutions and participated in a
total of 125 meetings/ seminars/ symposia etc across the country. These meetings pertain to policy
including related to climate change and health; research on diagnostics, preventive, promotive and
curative health care and strengthening of research in government and non-governmental
institutions etc.
32
Dr. V.M. Katoch and other resource persons interacting with participants of workshops on ―Ethical
Aspects of Biomedical and Health Research‖ on 8th – 9
th April 2017 supported by ICMR at RUHS,
Jaipur
Dr. Raja Babu Panwar,V.C., RUHS; Dr. V.M. Katoch and other resource persons interacting with participants of workshops on ―Ethical Aspects of Biomedical and Health Research‖ on 8
th – 9
thApril
2017 supported by ICMR at RUHS, Jaipur
33
Dr. V.M. Katoch, Dr. Sudhanshu Kacker, Principal, RUHSMCand other resource persons
interacting with participantsof workshops of ―Research Methodology– Fundamentals of Developing
Research Proposals‖ on 10th August 2017 supported by ICMR at RUHS, Jaipur
Dr. V.M. Katoch addressing the participants of workshops of Research Methodology ‗BASICS OF
BIOSTATISTICS‘ on 9th–11
th February 2018 supported by ICMR at RUHS, Jaipur
34
(D) Dr. Manju Sharma,
Former Secretary to the Govt. of India,
NASI-DST Distinguished Woman Scientist Chair Professor
A major effort has been made to establish a satellite centre of the Stanford India Biodesign Centre
at AIIMS in the Biotech Park, Lucknow. The meetings were held both in New Delhi and
Lucknow. The matter is still being pursued.
The year 2017 has been a very busy year with several new initiatives taken for NASI. These
are Organizing Workshops and sensitization programs for women; Entrepreneurship Development;
Science Paper Writing; Teachers Training Programs; planning for the Award Lectures of NASI;
Work regarding Cauvery Gallery at Mysoreetc. Chennai, Madurai, HISSAR, Kumaun University
Nainital, Jamshedpur, NBRI-Lucknow, Guwahati, Chitrakoot, and at some other places NASI
programs were organized and attended by me.
The work on Cauvery Gallery has been supervised throughout and visits made. It is almost
complete and waiting for the inauguration by the Chief Minister of the State. During visit to
Guwahati we saw the Brahmaputra Gallery which is most well done and informative.
NASI Annual Session from 8-10th
Dec at Pune was organized and very well received. The
topic was Basic Research and its role in National Development. The planning for the workshop as
usual was done by me.
The meetings of Research Advisory Committee in Life Sciences (ShriramInstitute for
Industrial Research) Governing Board – both, I Chair, were regularly held during the year.
Bhasin Award Meetings and SCOPUS Award meetings of the Expert Committee were held
regularly and I attended all the issues related to these. Life Care Innovations Board meetings were
held in which I participated and dealt with the issues of important new drugs, which have been
developed in India and being exported to different countries.
During the year I attended all the meetings of the MSSRF, Chennai and many other meetings
in Government as a member.
I gave the following Memorial Lectures:-
Gave a lecture as Guest of Honour at Jadhavpur University Kolkata on 9th Sept 2017 in the
symposium during the 4th Convention of the Society for Ethnopharmacology
International Conference on Advances in Diseases Management for Human Welfare‖ was
inaugurated by me scheduled on 21st, November 2017 at Gulbarga University
Inaugural Address – INSPIRE Program Inauguration at CMFRI Kochi – 23rd
Jan 2018
Prof. A K Sharma – 29th Jan 2018 Kolkata
Convocation Address– UAS Bangalore - 9th Feb
V W Chemburkar Memorial Lecture – 24th Feb 2018 – Vadodara
Prof. MGK Menon Memorial Lecture – 28th Feb 2018 – Allahabad
Global Agriculture Leadership Summit – Plenary Lecture – BIRAC – Technical Lecture
35
Visited IBSD Manipur and gave a talk on the Future Roadmap for the Institute: The
planning for a Mega Event for Technological Empowerment of Women began from March 30,
2017. Several meetings were held and eventually the event took place on 8-9th March 2018. Very
large number of experts both from India and abroad complimented, NASI and myself, for the
excellent arrangements and organization of this Mega Event with more than 1000 participants.
Very good lectures were held as appreciated by the participants. In fact the Director IIT and many
others suggested to have and Annual Event like this; IIT Delhi desired that they will collaborate
and help NASI to organize. The main purpose of the event to offer a larger platform to the Women
Scientists was accomplished. We will bring out the important recommendations of this workshop
and circulate it to both Government agencies and NGOs including industries. In addition to these, I
participated in several routine meetings and discussions at various levels. Throughout the year, I
kept in mind one important motive of my work that is mentoring young scientists and students
specially women. Several of them were mentored and advised.
Another very important work of NASI for S&T interventions for ST population for their
welfare was assigned to me. In a very short period, I developed about 15 projects at different
institutions all aiming at various activities of welfare to Schedule Tribes. Funds have been released
to all and new programs are under development. There is an Advisory Committee, which I chaired,
this looks at all the projects. We will have a review in six months at one of the Centres. The whole
program is funded by DST.
A number of programs for the next financial year are being developed in the areas mentioned
in para 2 above. We will try and cover States/Regions where we have not had any program. In
addition, I attended all the Council, Award Committee, Fellowship and Membership Scrutiny
Committees.
The above is a very brief description of the activities carried out during the year.
(E) Scientific/Research Contributions of NASI Honorary Scientists:
1. Prof. K.A. Natarajan,
NASI- Honorary Scientist, Department of Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Science
Title: Biotechnology of metals and Bioenvironmental Control.
The theme of the work is minerals bioprocessing, biofouling and microbially- influenced corrosion
and environmental control. Antimicrobial nanocoatings using silver-graphene oxide nano
composites being developed to control microbiofouling and metallic corrosion. The role of several
mining microorganisms in water pollution and bioremediation processes and being investigated. In
the area of minerals bioprocessing, microbially- mediated –Iron ore beneficiation was
demonstrated.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report
(a) Establishment of marine metallic- corrosion brought out by sulfate reducing anaerobes
36
(b) Biofouling of metal surfaces by Sulfate Reducing Bacteria and consequential corrosion of
steel
(c) Antimicrobial surface coatings based on silver and graphene oxide nanoparticles
(d) Silver nanoparticles were efficient in deactivating corrosion-causing Sulfate Reducing
Bacteria
(e) Bioflocculants and mining bacteria such as Acidothiobacillus, Sulfate Reducing Bacteria
and Thiomonas sp., could be used to detoxify arsenic- polluted water.
(f) Several mining microorganisms isolated from mines could be used to beneficiate iron
ores, bauxite, clays and sulfide ores.
2. Publication(s)
(a) Book writing
Completed writing of Biotechnology of Metals-Principles, Recovery Methods and
Environmental Concerns. To be published by ELSEVIER in June 2018.
(b) Research publications
i. Y. Raghupathy, K. Karthiga Devi, K.A. Natarajan, C. Srivastava, Size dependent
antimicrobial response of silver nanoparticles for antifouling applications in marine
environment, CORROSION CONFERENCE, NACE, IIT MADRAS, February 2018.
ii. K.A. Natarajan, Bioremediation of arsenic using bioflocculants and microorganisms, chapter
10 in ―Heavy Metals in the Environment: Microorganisms and Bioremediation: Edgardo R
Donati (Editor), CRC Press, New York (2018), pp. 195-210.
iii. Y. Raghupathy, K.A. Natarajan, C. Srivastava, Microstructure, electrochemical behavior and
biofouling of electrodeposited metal matrix-silver nanoparticles composite coatings, Surface
and Coatings Technology, 328 (2017), pp.266-275.
iv. K.A. Natarajan, Use of bioflocculants for mining environmental control, Trans. Indian Inst.
Metals, 70 (2017), pp. 519-525.
v. Y. Raghupathy, K.A. Natarajan, C. Srivastava, Nickel-silver nanomaterials, synthesis,
electrochemical corrosion behavior and antimicrobial response, Indian Institute of Metals,
NMD-Annual Tech. Meeting, Goa, November (2017).
vi. K.A. Natarajan, Bioprocessing technologies for iron ore beneficiation, Proc. Int. Conf. on
Science and Technology of Iron Making and steel making, IIT, Kanpur, December (2017).
3. Collaborations established and other scientific contributions
Teaching:
MT-235 CORROSION TECHNOLOGY (3:0) Graduate course in Materials Engineering
(August-December 2017).
37
Ph.D. Guidance:
Guided Ph.D work of Y.Raghupathy on Antifouling coatings for corrosion resistance.
Ph.D.Thesis Evaluation and External Examinership
Goa University
VNIT Nagpur
BARC Mumbai
Academies‟ Summer Research Fellowship Programme
a) Served in the selection committee to select summer research fellows in the area of
Materials Engineering, December 2017.
b) Guided Two Students in Summer Research during June-July 2017
4. Award/Honour/Recognition
Honors / Committees
a) DST-SERB PAC expert member – Materials, Mining and Mineral Engineering (2017-
2018)
b) Honorary Member of the committee of International Biohydrometallurgy Symposium
(IBS)-(2017-2018)
c) Expert member – Brain storming session – National center for corrosion research, IIT.
Bombay. 6th November 2017.
d) DST-SERB panel member for Young Scientists Scheme – 2017.
Six.Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any, during the period of report:
Invited / Plenary lectures delivered
1. Invited lecture on Biotechnology for gold, VNIT, Nagpur, 17th
March 2017.
2. Invited talk on Writing Research Proposals, Workshop on Research, B.M.S. Institute of
Technology, Bangalore, 25th July 2017.
3. Invited lecture on Biotechnology for Metal Extraction, VIT University, Vellore, 15th
August 2017.
4. DST-Inspire lecture at K.L. University, Vijayawada on Science for High School Students,
9th September 2017.
5. Distinguished speaker lecture on Microbial Corrosion-Industrial Relevance, Prevention
and Control - Programme on Corrosion Management, Confederation of Indian Industry,
Bangalore on 23rd
September 2017.
38
6. Keynote, lecture on Bioprocessing technologies for iron ore beneficiation, IIT Kanpur,
11th December 2017.
7. DST-INSPIRE lecture at K.L. University, Vijayawada on Indian Science through the
Ages, for High School Students, on January 09, 2018.
8. Plenary lecture at NIT Calicut on Microbial aspects of Water Pollution and
Bioremediation with reference to mining in India, on 9th March 2018.
SEM photograph of a) Sulfate Reducing Bacteria (SRB) b) SRB attached to Mild steel
2. Prof. Shelley Bhattacharya,
Visva-Bharti, Santiniketan, Kolkata, NASI- Honorary Scientist
Title: Trans-differentiation of Rat Hepatic Oval Cells into Insulin Producing Cells
Partial Hepatectomy (PH) with or without administration of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP1)
for in vivo generation of insulin producing β-like cells in the regenerating liver of adult rats.
We would like to assess and evaluate the functional potential of PH+/- GLP-1 mediated
generation of insulin producing β-like cells in an adult diabetic rat model. Evaluation of the
functional potential of this approach will lead to improved translational approaches for the
treatment and management of Diabetes mellitus.
1. Significant research / scientific findings during the period of report :
(a) Trans-differentiation of Rat Hepatic Oval Cells into Insulin Producing Cells : In the
present programme, histological and immunohistochemical studies have yielded convincing
evidences of the presence of β-like cells in both partially hepatectomized liver tissue and
GLP-1 treated PH liver tissue. Also, we have demonstrated that, the glucose level and insulin
level in control, saline and GLP1 treated partial hepatectomized rat. Blood glucose level in
saline treated PH rat was very high than control and it suppressed in GLP-1 treated
hepatectomized rat. This result was further confirmed by high serum insulin level in GLP-1
treated PH rat. Furthermore, confocal microscopy imaging also proved the presence of insulin
and its transcription factor Pdx1 in regenerated region of GLP-1 treated PH rat liver. Also the
b) a)
39
mRNA level of Pdx1 and Insulin (Ins1 and Ins2) confirmed insulin production from GLP-1
treated PH rat.
(b) Abundance of Macrobrachium lamarrei: A less explored commercially important native
prawn species in India: Our final goal is to address the dimension of food safety of this
edible prawn. In fact, the target aquatic bodies are uninvestigated in terms of heavy metal
pollution. Hence, a detailed research on the presence of metal pollutants in a focused
ecosystem and in the prawns will let us identify the safety status of this prawn.
(c) Mentha arvensis (Linn.) mediated green silver nanoparticles trigger caspase 9
dependent cell death in MCF7 cells: Leaf extract of Mentha arvensis or mint plant was used
as reducing agent for the synthesis of green silver nanoparticles (GSNPs) as a cost-effective,
eco-friendly process compared to that of chemical synthesis. Anticancer activities against
breast cancer cell lines (MCF7 and MDA-MB-231) were studied and compared with
chemically synthesized (NaBH4-mediated) silver nanoparticles (CSNPs).
2. Publication(s)
i. Sandip Mukherjee, Shuvasree Sarkar, Chayan Munshi and Shelley Bhattacharya (2017). The
Uniqueness of Achatina fulica in its Evolutionary Success. In book: Organismal and
Molecular Malacology, InTech Open Access, DOI: 10.5772/68134
ii. Banerjee PP, Bandyopadhyay A, Harsha SN, Policegoudra R, Bhattacharya S, Karak N,
Chattopadhyay A (2017). Mentha arvensis (Linn.)-mediated green silver nanoparticles
trigger caspase 9-dependent cell death in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Breast Cancer:
Targets and Therapy 9:265.
iii. Pallabi Das, Shaswat Barua, Shuvasree Sarkar, Subhendu Kumar Chatterjee, Sandip
Mukherjee, Linee Goswami, Subhasish Das, Shelley Bhattacharya, Niranjan Karak, Satya
Sundar Bhattacharya (2018). Mechanism of toxicity and transformation of silver
nanoparticles: Inclusive assessment in earthworm-microbe-soil-plant system. Geoderma
314: 73-84
3. Invited Talk (s)/ Lecture (s) delivered:
1. Invited Lecture at INTZOOCON 2018, Kolkata: A Novel Function of Achatina C-reactive
Protein: Apoptosis like Death of Bacteria. 2nd
-4th
February, 2018, Calcutta University.
2. Invited lecture at 6th ICMS, 2018, Hyderabad: Apoptosis like Death of Bacteria is induced by
Achatina C-reactive Protein. 8th -10
th February 2018, Hyderabad University
40
INS2
Relat
ive mRN
A
expression
CL CP Saline 5d
GLP
INS1
CL Salin
e
5d
GLP
CP
Relative
mRN
A expre
ssion
Figure 1: Blood Glucose and Serum Insulin Level in Control and GLP treated rat. Histology and
Immunohistochemistry of Control and GLP treated regenerated liver tissues.
Figure 2: mRNA level of Insulin (Ins1 and Ins2) and Pdx1 from control and GLP treated liver
samples.
PDX1
CL CP Sali
ne
5d
GL
P
Relative
mRN
A
expression
Control Saline GLP
98
100
102
104
106
108
110
112
114
116
118
120
Glucose
level
(mg/dL)
Control Saline GLP
1.10
1.15
1.20
1.25
1.30
1.35
1.40
1.45
1.50Insulin
level
(ng/ml)
Control Liver
Control Pancreas
Saline Treatment
Insulin/
Rhodamine PDX1/
FITC
Nucleus/
DAPI
Merge GLP Treatment
Histology and Immunohistochemistry of control and GLP treated sample
Blood Glucose and Insulin level of Control and GLP-1 treated rat
41
3. Prof. Aloknath Chakrabarti,
NASI-Honorary Scientist, Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Science,
Bangalore
Title: Integral Equations and their applications to Boundary Value Problems of
Mathematical Physics
Theme of the work: Varieties of integral equations occur while attempting to solve boundary
and initial value problems of Mathematical Physics and Engineering. Effective analytical as
well as numerical methods of solution are needed to be developed and utilized in several
practical problems.The major emphasis of the present work lies on the development of new
methods of solution of regular as well as singular integral equations and applying them to
certain particular classes of boundary value problems occurring in the areas of scattering of
surface water waves and electromagnetic and acoustic waves.
Special numerical methods of solution of Hyper-singular integral equations as well as systems
of Wiener-Hopf type of integral equations have been developed and applied to some specific
problems.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: The following work
has been carried out and more work is in progress.
(a) Integral Equations
(i) The Green‘s function Technique of solution of Boundary Value Problems of Mathematical
Physics gives rise to Integral Equations .It is shown that varieties of integral equations can be
obtained for the same boundary value problem, by selecting varieties of Green‘s type of functions.
The case of Laplace‘s equation in two dimensions has been studied exclusively, as a special
example. It is shown that the newly developed method of solution on certain Dirichlet and
Neumann type boundary value problems give rise to New Formulae of solution of certain integral
equations of the first kind. The special cases of boundary value problems involving Half planes
and Circles are taken up as particular examples of the new method of solution developed.
(ii) Investigation involving the existence of unique solutions of a class of linear integral equations
of the first kind is in progress.These integral equations involve certain known parameters
depending on the specific physical problems of application. Problems arising in the theory of
scattering of electromagnetic waves and surface water waves are taken up for their unique
solutions through such integral equations.
(b) Boundary Value Problems
(i) A special Mixed Boundary Value Problem arising in the theory of scattering of surface water
waves, by a permeable vertical barrier has been investigated for its approximate solution by the aid
of a Hyper- singular integral equation of the Second kind. The resulting integral equation is solved
numerically by utilizing a newly developed collocation method, after replacing the unknown
function by means of a polynomial, multiplied by a suitable weight function. The practical results
involving the reflection and transmission coefficients of the scattering problem under
consideration, have been obtained numerically.
42
(ii) Investigations on the Wiener-Hopf Technique in Problems of Scattering of Electromagnetic
Waves are in progress. The Wiener- Hopf technique and its recent developments are found to be
highly advantageous and effective, both analytically as well as computationally, in handling a class
of problems of scattering of Electromagnetic and Acoustic Waves, by Multiple Scatterers, present
in a medium of known properties. As examples of Multiple Scatterers, two and three semi-infinite
planes, with varieties of arrangements in the medium and with general type of boundary conditions
on their surfaces are shown to be amenable to the Wiener-Hopf technique and these problems are
examined in detail. The resulting two-dimensional problems lead finally to the solution of a system
of Fredholm integral equations of the second kind which are best solved numerically.
2. Publication(s):
The following papers have been published or communicated -
i. ―A Note on Green‘s Function Technique for Laplace‘s Equation‖, By A.Chakrabarti and
Madhavi Rao(Published in International Journal of Applied Mathematics and Engineering
Sciences), IJAMES, No1, 2017, pp.101-109.
ii. ―Characteristics of eigen-system for flexural gravity wave problems―, Geophysical and
Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics‖, By S. Mandal, T.Sahoo and A. Chakrabarti Vol 111,
(2017), Issue 4, pp. 249-281.
iii. ― Approximate solution of Hyper-singular Integral Equation of the Second Kind with
application‖, By R.Gayen, Sourav Gupta and A. Chakrabarti , Journal of Computational and
Applied Mathematics,JCAM ( Communicated for publication).
3. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
(a) The Role of Wiener-Hopf Technique in Problems Of Scattering of Electromagnetic Waves by
Multiple Scatterers, delivered in ―Frontiers of Applied and Computational Mathematics‖,
FACM-2017,( Held during 24-25 June, 2017 ) in NJIT (New Jersey Institute of
Technology ), Newark, NJ, USA, delivered on June 25,2017.
(b) The Role of Wiener-Hopf Technique in Problems of Scattering of Electromagnetic Waves by
Multiple Scatterers, delivered in the Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of
Technology, IIT Kharagpur, delivered on October 27, 2017.
4. Professor Partha S. Ghose,
NASI-Honorary Scientist
Title/Theme of the work being done: Foundations of Quantum Mechanics covering
(i) Quantum-Classical interface, continuous transitions between them and the measurement
problem
(ii) Unification of quantum and classical physics, particularly for light and gravity
(iii) Further development of the idea of entanglement in classical optics
(iv) Extension of the idea of entanglement from classical optics to classical gravitational waves.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
(a) A solution to the quantum measurement problem using continuous transitions between
quantum and classical systems
43
(b) Possibility of entanglement at LIGO
(c) Complementarity between classical and quantum radiation and gravity
2. Publication(s)
i. Continuous Transitions Between Quantum and Classical Electrodynamics, arxiv:1705.10788
[quant-ph], June 2017.
ii. Continuous Quantum-Classical Transitions and Measurement: A Relook, arxiv: 1705.09149
[quant-ph], May 2017.
iii. The Quantum-like Face of Classical Mechanics, arxiv:1801.02499 [quant-ph], January 2018.
iv. A Unified Theory of Classical and Quantum Light, arxiv:1801.10028 [quant-ph], February
2018.
v. Possibility of Entanglement at LIGO!, arxiv: 1802.06080 [gr-qc] February 2018.
vi. Unified Classical and Quantum Mechanical Gravity!, arxiv: 1802.06722 [physics.gen-ph],
February 2018.
Book
―Tagore, Einstein and the Nature of Reality: Literary and Philosophical Dimensions‖, ed. Partha
Ghose, Routlege, Taylor & Francis Group, UK in press..
3. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
(a) 3rd
International Conference on ―Quantum Foundations 2017" (ICQF17), December 4-9, 2017
at NIT Patna; ‗Invited Talk‘ on ―Quantum and Classical Mechanics: Building A Bridge‖.
(b) ―Birth of Modern Science in India‖ organized by INSA on October 14, 2017 at Bose Institute,
Kolkata; Invited Talk on ―Bengal Renaissance and the Birth of Modern Science in India‖.
(c) Invited Talk on ―Bose: Personal Reminiscences‖ at ―Bose 125‖ Inaugural Ceremony, at S. N.
Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata, 1st January 2018, addressed by the
Hon‘ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, and Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Hon‘ble
Minister, Science & Technology, Govt. of India.
5. Dr. V.P. Kamboj,
Biotech Park, Lucknow, NASI-Honorary Scientist
1. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
(a) Biotechnology for Health and Food Security, Foundation Day lecture of Clean and Green
Environment Society at CSIR – NBRI, Lucknow on 8th July, 2017
(b) Presided and spoke in Valedictory Function of NASI Brain Storming Session on
―Drinking Water and Sanitation‖ at NASI, Allahabad on 17th
September, 2017
(c) Presided and spoke on CSIR Foundation Day at CSIR – CDRI, Lucknow on 22nd
September, 2017
(d) Presided and spoke on CSIR Foundation Day at CSIR – IITR, Lucknow on 28th
September, 2017
(e) Start-up Entrepreneurs:Rags to Riches in 58th AMI-2017 & International Symp. MSDSA-
201 atBabasahebBhimraoAmbedkar University, Lucknow on 17th November, 2017
44
(f) Presided and spoke in NASI Workshop on Bioentrepreneurship development at Biotech
Park, Lucknow, 29th
December, 2017
(g) Presided and spoke in Mrs. Seth Memorial Lecture, Regional Science Centre, Lucknow,
9h January, 2018
(h) Genetic Engineering for Health Security in North India Science Congress at BBAU,
Lucknow, 10th January, 2017
(i) New Developments in Biopharmaceuticals at ML Gupta Biotechnology Institute, Jaipur,
17th January, 2018
(j) Biotechnology for Health Security at Jaipur National University, Jaipur 18th
January,
2018
(k) Inaugurated and spoke on Bee importance at Insect Centre, Lucknow, 22nd
January, 2018
(l) 12.Chief Guest and spoke in Inaugural Session at International Conference on Trends in
Biochemical and Biomedical Research: Advances and Challenges (TBBR-2018) in the
Dept. of Biochemistry, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 13th
February, 2018
(m) Keynote address on Genetic Engineering for Health Security at TBBR – 2018 (13-15
February, 2018), 13th
February, 2018
(n) Chief Guest and Inaugurated NRLC Stakeholders meet at NRLC, Lucknow on 21st
February, 2018
(o) Chaired Dr. (Mrs.) MridulaKamboj Oration by Dr. Indira Hinduja ―Immunological
insights of endometrial receptivity‖ at ISSRF, Hyderabad, 23rd
February, 2018
(p) Delivered Prof. N.R. Moudgal Oration, ―Centchroman, a novel oral contraceptive: Lab to
Clinic‖ at ISSRF 2018 and World Congress on Reproductive Health with emphasis on
Family Planning and Assisted Reproductive Technologies and 28th AGM of ISSRF,
Hyderabad, 23 -25 February, 2018 on 23 February, 2018
(q) Presided and spoke in Bioentrepreneurship Conference of BCIL at INSA, New Delhi,
27th February, 2018
(r) Chief Guest and spoke on Science day at CSIR – IITR, 28th February, 2018
(s) 19.Chaired session V: Entrepreneurship Development (Start up and Make in India) and
Employment generation – Avenues, Opportunities and Challenges. In: National
Conference on Technological Empowerment of Women, commemorating the
International Women Day, 9th
March, 2018.
2. Publication(s):
i. Kamboj, V.P. and Anand, N. The story of Centchroman: a contraceptive with multiple
therapeutic potential. In: Pharmacologists of India, their contributions. Eds. PC Pandiya, SK
Kulkarni& GD Khilnani, published by VallabhPrakashan, C-5, SMA Coop. Industrial Estate, GT
Karnal Road, Delhi, 2017
ii. Kamboj, VP, Roy, S and Anand, N. Centchroman: A safe reversible postcoital contraceptive
with curative and prophylactic activity in many disorders. Frontiers in Bioscience, Elite 10: 1-14,
January 1, 2018
3. Awards:
Prof. N.R. Moudgal Oration Award by the Indian Society for the Study of Reproduction and
Fertility on 23rd
February, 2018 during 28th AGM of ISSRF at Hyderabad.
45
6. Prof.V.A.Bapat,
Department of Biotechnology, Shivaji University, Kolhapur,
NASI-Honorary Scientist
Title/Theme of the work being done:
A) To identify plants having maximum content of bioactive molecules related for treating
Parkinson‘s disease and Alzheimer symptoms.
B) Characterization of the process for extraction of the metabolites
C) Profiling and efficacy of the metabolites using latest high tech instruments
D) Establishment of plant cell cultures for understanding basic mechanisms
E) Attempts to enhance the metabolites through in vitro mutagenesis
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: The main focus of the
work is on the isolation and characterization of bioactive molecules from medicinal plants. In this
direction, work on finding bio molecules from three plants, mainly Mucuna,Crinum and
Pancratium against Parkinson‘s disease and Alzheimer symptoms are actively underway.
Materials were collected from different locations and were analyzed using latest chemical
techniques. The isolated molecules will be scrutinized further for their efficacy using animal
models.
Research was carried out to investigate an efficient method for extraction of swertiamarin and
mangiferin from different species of genus Swertia. Various extraction methods were evaluated for
increasing recovery percentage of swertiamarin and mangiferin.The results revealed that the
percentage extraction of swertiamarin and mangiferin among the different species of Swertia, the
maximum recovery was in S. chirayitaof swertiamarin (256.98 mg/g) and mangiferin
(155.76±7.78 mg/g). Furthermore, S. minor remarkably was best match for S. chirayita as per
phytochemical fingerprint using swertiamarin and mangiferin suggesting a viable alternative for
S.chirayita.
Additional work was done on the field survey and collection of woolly aphid samples for
identification and DNA isolation: Field survey was carried out to collect the samples of woolly
aphid (Ceratovacuna lanigera) infestation in sugarcane growing regions of Maharashtra,
Karnataka, Telangana, Assam and Uttar Pradesh. Infestation of woolly aphid on sugarcane was
reported from Maharashtra, Karnataka and Telangana. No infestation of woolly aphid was
recorded from northern Indian states Assam, Hariyana and Uttar Pradesh. Samples for DNA
extraction were collected and stored in 95% ethanol in 1.5 ml eppendorf tubes. Samples were
transported to laboratory and stored at -20 °C until DNA extraction. Further work is under process.
2. Publication(s):
i. Kshirsagar, P.R, Gaikwad N.B., Pai, S.R. and Bapat V.A. (2017) Optimization of extraction
techniques and quantification of swertiamarin and mangiferin by using RP-UFLC method
from eleven species of Swertia species. South African J. Bot, 108, 81-89.
ii. Jagtap U.B., Jadhv J.P, Bapat V.A. and Pretorius I.S. (2017).Synthetic biology stretching the
realms of possibility in wine yeast research. International J. Food Microbiology. 252, 24-34.
iii. Aware C, Patil R., Gaikwad S, Yadav S. R., Bapat V.A. and Jadhav J.P. (2017) Evaluation
L dopa, proximate composition with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of Mucuna
46
macrocarpa, beans : A future drug for Parkinson treatment. Asian Pacific J of Tropical
Medicine, 1-10. (in press).
Patil S, Sistla S., Bapat V.A. and Jadhav J.P. (2018) Melanin mediated synthesis of
silvernanoparticles and their affinity towards tyrosinase. Appl. Biochemistry and
Microbiology 54, No. 2, pp. 163– 172
iv. Chavan J, J., Gaikwad N.B., Dixit G.B., Yadav S.R. and Bapat V.A.(2018) Biotechnological
interventions for propagation, conservation and improvement of Lantern Flowers (Ceropegia
spp.). South African Journal of Botany, 114, 192 -216.
v. Jagtap U.B. and Bapat V.A. (2018) Custard apple—Annona squamosa L. In Exotic fruits (
Eds, S, Rodrigues, E. de Oliveira Silva and E. Sousa de Brito). Academic Press, USA,
pp.163-166.
3. Award/Honour/Recognition:
(a) Currently,acting as the Mentor for three Post-Doctoral Fellows under Dr. D. S. Kothari,
UGC fellowships.
(b) One Post-Doctoral fellow under SERB, DST completed her tenure in March 2018.
(c) Evaluated eight Ph.D. theses last year.
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s):
1) New College, Kolhapur, Workshop sponsored by DBT, New Delhi, December 19, 20
2017
2) YC Institute of Science, Satara, DBT, New Delhi, January, 5,6 2018
Mucuna monosperma Mucuna imbricataMucuna sanjappae
Mucuna pruriens (utilis) Anethum graveolens
Mucuna macrocarpa
Mucuna bracteata Bidens pilosa Linn.
Eleven different species and 4 varieties of Mucunahave been screened in our lab
47
Swertia species
S. angustifoliaBuch.-Ham. ex D.
Don S. angustifolia var. pulchella (D. Don) Burkill.
S. bimaculata (Siebold & Zucc.) C.
B. Clarke
S. chirayita (Roxb. Ex Flem.) Karst.
S. corymbosa (Griseb.) White ex.
C.B. Clarke.
S. densifolia (Griseb.) Kashyapa.
S. dilatataC. B. Clarke
S. lawii Burkill.
S. minor (Griseb.) knobl.
S. nervosa (G. Don) C. B.
Clarke
S. paniculata Wall.
0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 min
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
450
500
mAU238nm4nm (1.00)
ST
D/3.610
0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.5 6.0 6.5 7.0 7.5 min
-200
-100
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
1000
1100
1200
1300
1400
1500mAU
257nm,4nm (1.00)
1/1
.74
4
2/2
.93
7
3/5
.22
6
4/6
.94
9
Swertiamarin Mangiferin
RP-UFLC profiles
Swertia
chirayita
Antipyretic
Anti-oxidative
Anti-bacterial
Hepato-protective
Hypo-glycemic
BitterAnthelmintic
Anti-carcinogenic
Anti-inflammatory
Studies on medicinal plant :Swertia sps.
(F) SCIENTIFIC / RESEARCH CONTRIBUTION OF NASI-SENIOR SCIENTIST
PLATINUM JUBLIEE FELLOWS :
7. Prof. B.N. Johri,
Department of Biotechnology, Barkatullah University, Bhopal
The potential isolates screened from wheat rhizosphere were Bacillus sp. strain A5F and
Pseudomonas protegens strain BNJ-SS-45. Through amplification by gene specific primers for
phloroglucinol (phl), pyrrolnitrin (prl) and pyoluteorin (plt) the presence of phl amplicon at 745 bp
confirms the presence of phl biosynthetic loci. Therefore, it could be presumed that the strain
possibly produces 2, 4 DAPG also showed antagonism towards plant pathogenic fungi Fusarium,
Macrophomina and Sclerotinia.
To confirm it further crude metabolite was purified using thin layer chromatography then
subjected to HRGC-MS analysis which reveals the presence of pyrrole type antibiotic molecule,
pyrrolo [1, 2-α] pyrazine-1, 4-dione (Figure 1). To gain insight into nutritional regulation out
ofeleven culture variables selected peptone (2g L-1
), glycerol (20g L-1
) and incubation period (48
h) were screened through ‗one variable at a time approach‘. The composition of M8 medium was
further optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design.
The observed response is depicted by the following regression equation:
Y= 15.84 - 0.42A -0.064B + 0.37C - 0.55A2 - 0.30B
2 - 0.90C
2 - 0.021AB - 0.33AC + 0.16BC
where, Y is the antifungal activity as inhibition zone (mm).
48
Figure 1: Structure of pyrrolo [1, 2-α] pyrazine-1, 4-dione obtained from GC-MS analysis.
Figure 2: Response surface curve showing effect and interaction between (A) peptone and
glycerol, (B) peptone and incubation period and (C) glycerol and incubation period.
The results of ANOVA show that the model is highly significant. Response surface plots illustrate
the interaction between the two factors; their optimum level was studied (figure 2). The scale up
experiment suggests sustainable production of biomass and antibiotic production in varied flask
volume. The optimized medium composition (glycerol 29 ml, peptone 50 g, K2HPO4 1 g, MgSO4
0.5 g; pH 7.0 at incubation time of 48 h) improved biomass by 1.38-folds from 2.7 gL-1
to 4.3 -1
and change in the inhibition zone size from 11.3 ±0.6 mm to18 ± 0.3 mm, (37.91 %).
Efficacy and potential of PGPR BNJ-SS-45, A5F, mycorrhiza and their consortium, chemical
fertilizer and commercially available PGPR products was tested through field experiments
conducted on soybean at three different sites viz., Bavi (Indore), Anghora (Jabalpur) and Taveri
(Katni), Madhya Pradesh (Figure 3). The experiment was set up with 17 different treatments (T1-
T17). Highest plant population was recorded in Jabalpur trial followed by Indore and Katni. Test
organism W45 performed as a better PGPR strain compared to AMF consortium. Seed yield was
significantly high in treatments 75% RDF+W45 or AMF as compared to 100% RDF +W45 or
AMF. W45 +50%, 75% and 100% RDF significantly enhanced the nitrogen% (2.89±0.25) and
phosphorous (109.14±0.5 ppm) in shoot tissue. Treatments W45+50% RDF, 100% RDF, T11
(A5F alone) maintained pH and electrical conductivity of field soils. The test bacteria showed
better plant growth than commercially available market product of a phosphate solubilizing
bacterium.
49
Figure 3: A comparison of seed yield between the trials conducted on soybean cultivated with and
without PGPR, mycorrhiza and chemical fertilizers at all three different locations in Madhya Pradesh.
To test PGPR isolates for suppression of fungal pathogens in soybean plant a pot experiment under
greenhouse conditions with eleven different treatments was also conducted. Single inoculation
with W45 provided better control than combined inoculation. A5F+W45+Bradyrhizobium (CFU
109) treated plants were better in terms of plant growth, number of leaves and nodules. A
consortium of test strains proved effective in suppression of disease and enhancement plant
growth. Further, strain BNJ-SS-45 was tested for biosurfactant and siderophore production. The
biosurfactant produced showed positive test in blue-agar plate-method, stable emulsification
properties and maximum cell hydrophobicity with toulene. Modification in the medium to attain
significant level of biosurfactant and siderophore metabolites in a single production medium was
achieved by excluding iron from the production medium since biosynthesis of both these
metabolites is induced under iron-limited conditions. Through ‗one-variable-at-a-time‘ approach,
the following significant variables were determined viz., glucose + soybean oil (2.5 % + 2 %),
ammonium chloride (0.4 %) and incubation period (48 h). Further optimization was carried out
using response surface methodology (RSM) with a central composite design. Response surface
plots illustrate the interaction between the two factors; their optimum level was studied as shown
in figure 4. The observed response is depicted by the following regression equation:
Y = 973.30 + 411.11A + 586.11B + 783.89C + 233.88D + 247.02A2 + 68.68B
2 + 191.20C
2 –
75.48D2 + 186.67AB + 103.32AC - 83.34AD + 124.58BC – 143.76BD + 54.59CD – 77.78 A
3 -
123.20 B3 – 140.97C
3 – 58.47D
3 – 52.49ABC – 378.33ACD – 260.42BCD
where, Y is the rhamnolipid (mg L-1
).
The central values obtained were, glucose 2.50 %, soybean oil 4 %, ammonium chloride 1 % and
incubation time of 48 h. The statistical significance of the model was evaluated by ANOVA. The
available results show that the model is highly significant and values of R-squared (0.9977),
adjusted R-squared (0.9916), predicted R-squared (0.8498) and adequate precision (57.185) are
predicted by the model. Metabolites were scaled-up using 7 l fermentor (Electrolab) with 3 l
working volume which resulted in 2.5-folds increase in biomass, 5.5-folds increase in rhamnolipid
production and 66 % increase in siderophore level compared to unoptimized conditions (figure 5).
Extracted crude biosurfactant was purified using sephadex G50 and subjected to LCMS-MS.
Structural composition and relative abundances of rhamnolipid mixture was determined to be Rha-
50
Rha-C12-C10/Rha-Rha- C10-C12, Rha-C10-C14:1/Rha-C12- C12:1, Rha-C10-C12/Rha-C12-
C10, Rha-C12-C12/Rha- [H2O] C10- C14/Rha-C14-C10, Rha-C10-C10:1/Rha-C10:1-C10, Rha-
C10-C12:1/Rha-C12:1-C10, predominantly dominated by mono-rhamnolipids. The crude
rhamnolipid biosurfactant showed strong antagonism against the pathogenic fungi and bacteria.
Purified siderophores showed a sharp peak at 350 nm and LC-QToF-MS analysis revealed the
presence of all three core components of siderophore molecule consisting of a chromophore, a
carboxylic acid side chain and an eleven amino acid long peptide chain.
Figure 4. Response surface curve showing effect and interaction between (a) soybean oil and
glucose, (b) incubation time and soybean oil on rhamnolipid production
Figure 5. The growth of strainBNJ-SS-45 in terms of dry cell weight (▬), in a 7-L bioreactor with
a 3-L working volume incubated at 30 ⁰C with 21 % dO2 controlled by a stirring rate of 100 rpm.
Plotted against (■) rhamnolipid production (g L-1
); (▲) glucose depletion (g L-1
); (●) siderophore
production (mg L-1
) throughout the growth period in production medium + 2.5 % glucose and 4 %
soybean oil.
767.895 1128.04 1488.19 1848.34 2208.48
Rhamnolipid (mgl
-1)
1.80 2.05
2.30 2.55
2.80
24.00 36.00
48.00 60.00
72.00
B: Soybean oil D: Incubation time
767.895 1128.04 1488.19 1848.34 2208.48
Rhamnolipid (mgl
-1)
1.50 1.75
2.00 2.25
2.50
1.50 1.75
2.00 2.25
2.50
A: Glucose B: Soybean oil
51
A draft genomic sequence of strain BNJ-SS-45 was generated from a paired end library
constructed with the Nextera library preparation kit. The genome was found to be ~7 Mb in size
with a G+C content of 63.34% and includes 6601 candidate protein encoding genes. The present
assembly consists of 32 scaffolds containing 7,116,445 bp.
8. Prof. R. Sridharan,
Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad
The innovative method worked out for effective and efficient use of the Satellite Based
Augmentation System for retrieving useful ionospheric parameters could be said to be creating
waves amongst the ionospheric and space weather community.
The elegant way to retrieve the parameters with the help of a single receiver irrespective of
the place of its operation, but at the same time getting quality controlled data duly corrected for the
receiver and satellite bias and getting updated every 5 minutes, covering a region that spans at least
35 deg X 35 deg could be considered a big leap. Any Space Weather phenomenon is global in
nature and if the impact is to be assessed then one has to have a dense network of stations
providing data with high cadence. Maintaining such a network is a horrendous task. This work
has received very wide acclaim. The first practical use of this method for forecasting spatio-
temporal scintillation pattern had been tried out and for the first time, not only the occurrence
pattern but also the expected maximum intensity of scintillations were forecast with very
reasonable success. The few deviations are getting linked to some of the background ionospheric
conditions which need to be accounted for in the forecasting scheme.
Any new forecasting tool/ method has to be duly validated with actual observations. On a
phenomenon like equatorial Spread F/ ionopsheric scintillations, which essentially a spatio-
temporal phenomenon, only satellite based measurements need to be used for cross checking the
validity of the forecast scheme. CNOF/S (Communication Navigation Outage Forecasting
System) was the only satellite that was available. It is worth mentioning that the main objective of
the satellite had been to forecast the occurrence of scintillations that have direct bearing on the
quality of satellite communication. However though excellent insitu measurements were carried
out, the outcome had been far from forecasting. Using simultaneous data from ground based GPS
scintillation receivers and from the satellite, the occurrence pattern of the L-band scintillations
were compared with actual data from CNOF/S. Excellent agreement provides encouragement for
refining the method by taking into account all finer elements in to account. The outcome of the
whole study could be said to have taken us one more step closer to the actual operational
forecasting.
The second phase of the study had been pertaining to the Lunar atmosphere based on our own
experiment in the Chandrayaan-I mission from India. The unique position of the moon within the
magnetotail of the earth at the time of the mission had been effective used in arriving at the upper
limit of the helium in the lunar exosphere. Further refinements had been brought in the estimates
of another noble gas viz., Neon and its spatio-temporal variations.
52
Other activities:
Has taken over as the Chairman of the Research Advisory committee of the Indian Institute of
Geomagnetism, Mumbai and also has become the member of the Governing Council as a
permanent invitee.
Had been involved in the review committees of ISRO for the future planetary missions and also for
the exploration of near earth space.
Had been involved in the review committees of PRL
Had acted as a Reviewer to several international journals.
Publication(s):
i. SBAS derived TEC maps – a new tool to forecast the spatial maps of maximum probable
scintillation Index (S4max) over Indian region. Surendra Sunda, Sneha Yadav, R Sridharan, M
S Bagiya, P V Khekale, S V Satish, GPS solutions, Doi: 10.1007/s10291-017-6, 2017.
ii. Corrigendum to ― Observation of Neon at mid and high latitudes in the sunlit Lunar
Exosphere: results from CHACE aboard MIP/chandrayaan-1‖, Tirth Pratim Das, Smitha
Thampi, Anil Bhardwaj, S.M. Ahmed, and R. Sridharan, vol 272 (2016) pp 206-
211,ICARUS , 284 doi 10.1016/j.ICARUS. 2016.02.030, , 2017
iii. Further refinements to the Spatio-temporal forecast model for L-band scintillation based on
comparison with C/NOFS observations, Sneha Yadav, R. Sridharan, Surendra Sunda, Tarun
K. Pant, J.Geophys.Res, 122, Doi: 10.1002/2017JA0238692017
iv. Upper limit of Helium-4 in the sunlit lunar exosphere during magnetotail passage under low
solar wind condition: result from CHACE aboard MIP in Chandrayaan-1, Tirtha Pratim Das,
Smitha V. Thampi, M B Dhanya, Anil Bhardwaj, S. M. Ahmed, and R. Sridharan, ICARUS,
2017.
9. Prof.R. K. Manchanda,
Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai
Title/Theme of the project:Studies in High Energy Astronomy and Atmospheric Physics
High-energy astronomystudies involve working with the LAXPC data obtained during the payload
team's GT observations on the Astrosat satellite. The study aims at the unraveling the spectral and
temporal properties of neutron stars and black holes.The atmospheric physics studies are mainly
focused on the measurements and understanding the characteristics of aerosols at high altitudes
and their impact on climate change and global warming along with the study of zonal winds at
Hyderabad
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: Effects of thermonuclear
X-ray bursts on the spectral properties of neutronstars and estimation of their physical parameters
and theextensiveobservations of the formation of a radio jet in Cyg X-3 were the highlights of
present work in area of high energy astronomy. The key results in the atmospheric physics are the
observation of a correlation between the presence of a strong jet in zonal windsand the Monsoon
deficient years. A new balloon borne instrument for the quantitative measurements of high altitude
aerosols using a quartz micro balance.
2. Publication(s):
During the 2017-2018 period, 8 papers appeared in print in different journals and 5 papers were
submitted for publication, which are in different stages of revaluation.
53
A.Published
i. Effects of thermonuclear X-ray bursts on non-burst emission in the soft state of 4U 1728-34
Bhattacharyya, S., Yadav, J. S., Sridhar. N., Chauhan, J. V., Agrawal, P. C., Antia, H. M.,
Pahari, M., Misra, R., Katoch, T., Manchanda, R. K., and Paul, B.Astrophysical Journal
Letters, 2018, 860, 88B
ii. Extensive broadband X-ray monitoring during the formation of a giant radio jet base in Cyg X-
3 with AstroSat Pahari, M., Yadav, J. S., Verdhan Chauhan, J., Rawat, D., Misra, R., Agrawal,
P. C.,Chandra, S., Bagri, K., Jain, P.,Manchanda, R. K., and Sudip Bhattacharyya. 2018
Astrophys. Journal Letters. 853L, 11
iii. X-ray timing analysis of Cyg X-3 using AstroSat/LAXPC - Detection of milli-hertz quasi-
periodic oscillations during the flaring hard X-ray state Pahari, M., Antia, H. M.,
Chauhan, J. V., Agrawal, P. C., Misra, R., Chitnis, V.,Dedhia, D., Katoch, T., Madhwani, P.,
Manchanda R. K., Paul, B., and Shah, 2017ApJ. 849, 16
iv. Calibration of the Large Area X-ray Proportional Counter (LAXPC) instrument on-board
AstroSat Antia, H. M., Yadav, J. S., Agrawal, P. C., Verdhan Chauhan, J.,Manchanda, R.
K.,Chitnis, V., Paul, B., Dedhia, D., Shah, P., Gujar, V. M., et. al.2017 ApJS. 231, 10
v. Large Area X-ray Proportional Counter (LAXPC) Instrument on AstroSat and Some
Preliminary Results from its performance in the orbit Agrawal, P. C., Yadav, J. S., Antia, H.
M., Dedhia, D., Shah, P., Chauhan, J. V.,Manchanda, R. K., Chitnis, V. R., Gujar, V. M.,
Katoch, T., et. al. 2017 JApA. 38, 30
vi. Large Area X-ray Proportional Counter (LAXPC) Instrument on AstroSat Yadav, J. S.,
Agrawal. P. C., Antia, H. M., Manchanda, R. K.,Paul, B.,and Misra R.2017 Current Sci., 113,
no. 4, 591
vii. AstroSat/LAXPC detection of milli-second phenomena in 4U 1728-34 Chauhan, J. V., Yadav,
J. S., Misra, R., Agrawal, P. C., Antia, H. M., Pahari, M.,Sridhar, N., Dedhia, D., Katoch, T.,
Madhwani, P.,Manchanda R. K., Paul, B., and Shah, P. 2017ApJ. 841, 41
viii. AstroSat/LAXPC Observation of Cygnus X-1 in the Hard state Misra, R., Yadav, J. S.,
Verdhan Chauhan, J., Agrawal, P. C., Antia, H. M., Pahari,M., Chitnis, V. R., Dedhia, D.,
Katoch, T., Madhwani, P.,Manchanda, R. K., Paul,B., and Shah P. 2017 ApJ. 835, 195
B.In Process
i. Development of balloon-borne impactor for profiling size-segregated aerosols in the free
troposphere
Sinha, P. R., Manchanda, R. K., Nagendra, N., Koli, S. K., Trivedi, D. B., Sahu, L. K., Lodha,
R. K. and Sreenivasan, S.Submitted to Journal of Aerosol science and Technology,
ii. LAXPC/AstroSat study of ∼1 and ∼ 1.7 mHz Quasi-Periodic Oscillations in the Be/X-ray binary
4U 0115+63 during its 2015 outburst
Roy, J., Agrawal, P. C., Iyer, N. K., Bhattacharya, D., Yadav, J. S., Antia,H. M.,Chauhan, J.
V., Choudhary, M., Dedhia,D.K. , Katoch, T., Madhavani, P.,Manchanda, R. K., Misra, R.,
Pahari, M., Paul, B., Shah, P.; Submitted to Astrophysical Journal
C.Submitted
i. Study of timing evolution from non-variable to structured large amplitude transition in
GRS1915+105 using AstroSatRawat, D., Pahari, M., Yadav, J. S., Jain, P.,Misra, R., Bagri,
54
K., Katoch, T., Agrawal, P. C., and Manchanda, R. K.; Submitted to Astrophysical Journal
ii. Thermonuclear X-ray bursts in rapid succession in 4U 1636-536 with AstroSat-LAXPCBeri,
A.,Paul, B., Yadav, J. S., Antia, H. M., Agrawal, P. C., Manchanda, R. K., Dedhia,
D.,Chauhan, J. V.,Pahari, M., Misra, R.,Katoch, T., Madhwani, P., Shah, P., Bahal, V.,
Mate, S.; Submitted to Monthly Notices of Royal Soc.
iii. Seasonal progression of zonal and meridional winds over a tropical station Hyderabad in
India. N. Nagendra, P. R. Sinha, R. K. Manchanda; Submitted to Journal of Atmospheric
research
3. Award/Honour/Recognition: I am continuing to hold the position of honorary Professorship
at USQ, Australia
4.Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered: I continue to help the department set up the
experimental /projects activities for the students in areas of Astronomy, Space and Environmental
Sciences (ASES)
10. Prof. P.C. Mishra,
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
Title/theme:Electronic Structures, Properties and Reactions of Biomolecules, Free Radicals,
Their Scavengers Including Superoxide Dismutase and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
(PAHs). Several free radicals e.g. O2
.-, OH
., OCH3
., and NO2
. react with DNA bases and other biomolecules
giving rise to different lethal diseases of all vital parts of the human body. Here we have mainly
studied how the reactions occur and how the free radicals can be scavenged by different endogenous
and exogenous chemical species using quantum theoretical methods.
1. Significant/Scientific Findings During the Period of Report:
(i) Scavenging of O2.- and OH
.- by urea, thiourea, selenourea and their derivatives in both gas
phase and aqueous medium has been investigated using density functional theory (DFT). It has
been found that O2.- would be scavenged efficiently by single hydrogen abstraction from thiourea
and selenourea but not from urea.
(ii) Single electron transfer (SET) and sequential proton loss electron transfer mechanisms were
investigated employing DFT. SET barrier energies from the DNA bases to the PAHs follow the
order Cy > Thy > Ad > Gu, whereas SET barrier energies from the PAHs to the DNA bases follow
the order Gu > Ad > Thy > Cy. Thus guanine is the best electron donor and worst electron
acceptor among the bases while the reverse is true for cytosine.
(iii) Mechanisms of scavenging O2.-, OH
., OCH3
., and NO2
. by allicin and possible roles of
superoxide dismutase (SOD) in scavenging O2.-, DFT was employed. Marcus theory was also
employed to study scavenging of OH., OCH3
. and NO2
. by electron transfer. It is found that allicin
can scavenge O2.-
via double hydrogen atom transfer catalyzed by Fe-SOD efficiently.
(iv) Free radicals can be scavenged by genistein, daidzein and their mono and di-methyl
derivatives from biological systems through HAT, SET and SPLET mechanisms. Reactions
involving these derivatives and different free radicals were studied considering the HAT
mechanism. Polarizable continuum model (PCM) was used to treat solvation in water. Abstraction
of the H atom of the OH group attached to the B rings of both genistein and daidzein contribute
prominently to scavenging of OH radicals.
55
2. Publication(s):
i. Prasad, A.K.and Mishra, P.C. (2017),Scavenging of Superoxide Radical Anion and Hydroxyl
Radical by Urea, Thiourea, Selenourea and Their Derivatives Without Any Catalyst (2017),
A Theoretical Study, Chem. Phys. Lett. 684, 197.
ii. M. K. Tiwari and P.C. Mishra (2018), Electron Transfer Involving Polycyclic Aromatic
Hydrocarbons, DNA Bases and Free Radicals, J. Theoret. Comput. Chem.17, 1850008-18.
iii. M. K. Tiwari, N. R. Jena and P. C. Mishra (2018), Mechanisms of Scavenging Superoxide,
Hydroxyl, Nitrogen Dioxide and Methoxy Radicals by Allicin: Catalytic Role of Superoxide
Dismutase in Scavenging Superoxide Radical, J. Chem. Sci.(JCSC-D-17-01080_R2) (2018).
iv. Manish Kumar Tiwari and Phool Chand Mishra, Scavenging of Hydroxyl, Methoxy and
Nitrogen Dioxide Free Radicals by Some Methylated Isoflavones, J.Mol. Mod. (Submitted)
3. Awards/honour/recognition during period of the report: Status of a Distinguished Professor
(an honorary position) in the Department of Physics, BHU has been conferred on me by the
University.
4. Invited Talks/Lectures Delivered:
Delivered a talk on, ―The Unpaired Electron: What Difference Does it Make?‖ in the Dept. of
Physics, BHU, under the auspices of Indian Physics Association (Sept. 16, 2017).
5. Ph.D. Degrees Awarded:
Two of my Ph.D. students were awarded Ph.D. degrees in this period:
(i) Ajit Kumar Prasad
(ii) Manish Kumar Tiwari
Barrierless (catalyzed) double hydrogen abstraction from allicin by superoxide dismutase (a
new model).
Fe11
N12 C13 H13
N14 H14 C15
H15
C16
H16
N17
C18 H18 N19
H19
C20
H20
C21
H21
N22
C23
H23 H24
N24
H25
C25
C26
H26
C8
H8
H8′
C7
H7
C6
S5
S4
H3′ C3
C2
H2
C1
H1′
H1
H6′
H6
O10
0
O9
O4
(a) TS3
R2
R1
R3
H3
56
11. Dr.Ram Sagar,
Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru
Title/Theme of the work being done: Understanding of Blue Stragglers with UVIT and Optical
observations
The blue straggler stars (BSSs) are brighter and bluer than the main sequence turnoff in the CMD
of a star cluster. Their formation mechanisms are under investigation for almost six decades but
without a clear answer so far. Presence of binary stars in a cluster is valuable for understanding the
origin of BSSs. For this purpose, Ultraviolet observations of some old (>500 Myr) open star
clusters (OSCs) are obtained using unique observational capabilities of the UVIT payload of
ASTROSAT. We are also using 3.6 m Devasthal and 2 m Himalayan Chandra Telescope for
follow up optical observations of the BSS stars identified from the ASTROSAT observations.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:Out of 6 publications, three
are on the capabilities of the recently installed 3.6 meter Devasthal Optical telescope (DOT) while
another one provide latest status of the 4 meter International Liquid Mirror Telescope (ILMT)
project. Both optical observing facilities are built jointly by the astronomical communities of India
and Belgium. Preliminary results obtained from the on sky test indicate that 3.6 m DOT is capable
of resolving binary stars separated by ~ 0.4 arc second. Recent observations obtained with the
telescope indicate that sky conditions at Devasthal are very good for optical and near-infrared (up
to 5 micron) observations and the site can be considered internationally competitive. Buildings and
telescope houses constructed at Devasthal have not deteriorated natural seeing conditions observed
at the site about 2 decades ago during 1997-1999. All these indicate that on sky performance of the
newly installed 3.6 m DOT is excellent and is capable of providing internationally competitive
science with the modern backend instruments. Attached photograph shows the distant view of the
Devasthal Optical Observatory.
The paper published on atmospheric physics examines the influence of relative humidity
(RH), physical and optical aerosol properties on particle‘s hygroscopicity and hygroscopic growth
factor over central Indian Himalayas during the Ganges Valley Aerosol Experiment (GVAX)
carried out during June 2011 – March 2012. Particle size affects the aerosol hygroscopicity
exhibiting a mean f(RH = 85%) of 1.35 ± 0.16 for D10μm, which is lower than the respective
mean for D1μm (1.48 ± 0.24) during the whole period. Air-mass trajectories and different source
regions show an influence on f(RH=85%) values as they are depending on the season.
Another manuscript is published with the JRF student working under this project. The
observations in the optical V band and NIR J, H and Ks bands carried over 35 epochs during the
period October, 2016 to April, 2017 were used to estimate the inner radius of the dusty torus of
H0507+164, a class of active galactic nuclei (AGN) at z = 0.018. In the rest frame of the source,
the lags between optical and NIR bands are found to be ~27 days (V vs. J), ~30 days (V vs. H) and
~35 days (V vs. Ks). The measured lags indicate that the inner edge of dust torus is located at a
distance of 0.029 pc from the central UV/optical AGN continuum. This is larger than the radius of
the broad line region of this object determined from spectroscopic monitoring observations thereby
supporting the unification model of AGN. The location of H0507+164 in the tau - MV plane
indicates that our results are in excellent agreement with the now known lag-luminosity scaling
relationship for dust in AGN.
57
2. Publication(s):
i. Scientific Capabilities and Advantages of the 3.6-Meter Optical Telescope at Devasthal,
Uttarakhand;Amitesh Omar, Brijesh Kumar, Maheswar Gopinathan and Ram Sagar;
Current Science, 113 (2017) 682—685/astro-ph/arXiv:1710.01050.
ii. First Results from Light Scattering Enhancement Factor Over Central Indian Himalayas
during GVAX Campaign; U. C. Dumka, D. G. Kaskaoutis, Ram Sagar, Jianmin Chen,
Narendra Singh, and Suresh Tiwari; Science of the Total Environment, 605 (2017)
124—138; doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.06.138.
iii. Determination of the Size of the Dust Torus in H0507+164 through Optical and Infrared
Monitoring; Amit Kumar Mandal, Suvendu Rakshit, Kshama S Kurian, C S Stalin,
Blesson MathewSebastian Hoenig, Poshak Gandhi, Ram Sagar and M B Pandge;
Mon. Not. R. Astr. Soc. 475 (2018) 5330--5337/astro-ph/ 1801.07018.
iv. Scientific Summary of the First Binaworkshop; Ram Sagar;Bull. Liege Royal Soc. Sciences,
University of Liege; 87 (2018) 391—397.
v. 3.6-M Devasthal Optical Telescope Project: Completion And First Results; B. Kumar et al.
including Ram Sagar; Bull. Liege Royal Soc. Sciences, University of Liege; 87 (2018)
29—41.
vi. The 4m International Liquid Mirror Telescope; J. Surdej et al. including Ram Sagar; Bull.
Liege Royal Soc. Sciences, University of Liege; 87 (2018) 68—79.
3. Patents filed/collaborations established: Collaborations with scientists from ARIES,
Nainital and Belgium were successfully established as can be seen from the list of
publications. Another research project with German scientists has also been initiated recently.
4. Award/Honour/Recognition:
(1) Chief Editor of the Journal of Astrophysics & Astronomy now published jointly by Indian
Academy of Sciences, Bangalore and Astronomical Society of India in collaboration with
Springer India.
(2) Member of the Scientific Organizing Committee of the international conference on ―The
Physical Universe‖ held during February 26 to March 1, 2018 at Nagpur
(3) Expert in the Physics and Material Sciences & Technology for 12th Uttarakhand State
Science and Technology Congress 2017-18 held from March 7-9, 2018 at Vigyan Dham,
Jhajra, Dehradun.
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
(1) Global Importance of Indian Mega Initiatives in the Field of Astrophysics; inthe 32nd
Annual Convention of Indian Association of Physics Teachers held during 29-31 October
2017 at Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
(2) Opportunities for Indo-German Collaborations in the Area of Observational
Astrophysics; in the Humboldt Colloquium ―Germany and India – Partners in Education and
Research‖ held during 23-25 November 2017, Bangalore organized by the Alexander von
Humboldt Foundation.
58
(3) Capabilities of the UVIT payload and the 3.6 m Devasthal optical telescope; in the
international conference on ―The Physical Universe‖ held during February 26 to March 1,
2018 at Nagpur organized jointly by Central India Research Institute, Nagpur and Rashtrasant
Tukadoji Maharaj University Nagpur.
12. Prof. M. Udayakumar,
University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore
Title/Theme of the work being done: Under any abiotic stress oxidative stress is ubiquitous and
the cytotoxic ROS play a major role in subsequent carbonyl stress by generating RCCs mainly by
lipid peroxidation. Besides glycoxidation also generates RCCs. The major thrust in this program is
to look at the enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanisms through small molecules. Plants have
evolved to detoxify the highly stable cytotoxic RCCs. Besides it is relevant to assess the substrate
specificity of the scavenging enzymes to diverse RCCs. it is crucial to characterize the oxidative
stress specific upstream regulatory transcription factors which are likely to regulate both oxidative
and carbonyl stress responsive genes.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: Reactive carbonyl
compounds generated from oxidative stress mediated lipid peroxidation or through glycation
affects the plant cellular metabolic activities. The cucumber seedlings exposed to glucose, NaCl,
methylviologen showed decreased growth and accumulation of melandialdehyde, protein
carbonyls. The overexpression of aldo-keto reductases in tobacco and rice showed reduced MDA,
methylglyoxoal and showed improved seedling growth under glucose, NaCl and MV stress.
Besides enzymatic mechanisms, the role of natural metabolites in detoxification of RCCs was not
elucidated in plants. The compounds like acetyl salicylic acid, aminoguanidine, Pyridoxamine,
curcumin, and carnosine rescued the cucumber seedling growth under glucose, NaCl and MV
stress. In seedlings exposed to carbonyl stress, the MDA and PC levels was negatively affected the
seedling growth. Seedlings treated with these small molecules sustained higher GPX enzyme
activity, signifying the role of these molecules to reduce the carbonyl stress induced protein
inactivation. The study demonstrates that besides enzymatic detoxification of RCCs, some of the
molecules play vital role in maintaining the cellular homeostasis by regulating the cytotoxic effect
of the RCCs under stress.
We identified aldo-keto reductaseproteins involved in detoxification of certain cytotoxic reactive
carbonyl compounds. (Vemanna et al., 2017, Nisaga et al., 2017, Vemanna et al., 2016).Rice
genome has 27 AKRs andto understand why the system has so many AKRs, bioinformatics
approach has been adopted by developing structure based protein- small molecule (RCC) docking
studies.
Yet another focus is to characterize the transcription factors regulating oxidative and carbonyl
stress responsive genes. The differential expression of 20 TFs has been assessed in rice contrasting
genotypes under drought and HSFB4C, HSFC1A, HSFB2B, E2F, E2FE, HOX33, BZIP12,
BZIP23, DREB2A, NFX-1, OSH15, WRKY23 was upregulated in sensitive BPT 5204 genotype.
Characterization of highly upregulated 2 or three TFs using functional genomic approaches with
dsRNA, VIGS and chemical genomics is in progress.
2. Publication(s):
i. Mahesh, Udayakumar M, Peanut RNA helicase AHRH47 sustains protein synthesis under
stress and improves stress adaptation in arabidopsis. 2017, plant mol. Bio. Rep.
59
ii. M Udayakumar,…Adaptation of Crops to Climate Change: Relevant Mechanisms and their
Genetic Enhancement. 2017, Agriculture under Climate Change: Threats, Strategies and
Policies, Allied Publishers
iii. Preethi, … Udayakumar M Quantification of Membrane Damage/Cell Death Using Evan‘s
Blue Staining Techniques. Bio-Protocol;2017
iv. Nisarga…..Udayakumar M. Aldo-ketoreductase 1 (AKR1) improves seed longevity in
tobacco and rice by detoxifying reactive cytotoxic compounds generated during ageing. 2017.
Rice J v. Vemanna…., Udayakumar M. Aldo-keto reductase-1 (AKR1) protect cellular enzymes from
salt stress by detoxifying reactive cytotoxic compounds. Plant Phy&Bioche, 2017.
vi. Vemanna, …., Udayakumar M.Aldo-keto reductase enzymes detoxify glyphosate and
improve herbicide resistance in plants. 2017, Plant Biotechnology,
vii. Bakshi A., .Udaya Kumar M.,… Kirti, P.B. (2017) Ectopic expression of Arabidopsis Target
of Rapamycin (AtTOR) improves water-use-efficiency and yield potential in rice. Scientific
Reports
3. Award/Honour/Recognition:
a) Life time achievement award, National plant physiology society
b) Member, Governing body and Research advisory committee, NIPGR, New Delhi.
c) Chairman, Review committee, DBTNetwork project Agri-biotechnology
d) Co-Chair BBSRC-DBT project review committee
e) Co-chair, Seri-Biotechnology
f) Member, NASF- ICAR
g) Member, Expert Committee for the GoK funded TBI program C-CAMP, Karnataka
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
1.Invited Talk on Quest for Science & Funds – Drives Discoveries and Innovation at Rahuri,
on 12.01.2018
2.Invited Talk on Stress adaptation of crops at Mahatma PhuleKrishiVidyapeeth, Rahuri, on
12.01.2018
3.Invited Talk on PHENOTYPING – An Indispensable step in crop improvement programme
at Rahuri, on 12.01.2018
4.Invited Talk on PHENOTYPING – An Indispensable step in crop improvement programme
in brainstorming programme in New Delhi on 30.01.2018
5.-At Bangalore Bio, Bengaluru on 17.11.2017
6.At NCPP (National Conference on Plant Physiology), Raipur on 22.11.2017
7.Invited talk at Phenotyping- An dispensable step for functional genomics and crop
improvement programme‖ Hyderabad on 02.02.2018
8.Invited Talk on Transgenics: an option to pyramid drought adaptive traits at Trichi,
Tamilnadu on 11.11.2017
9.Invited Talk on Stress adaptation of crops – an Overview at … on 11.11.2017
10. Lead talk on ―Quest for Science discoveries and Innovation‖ at National conference on
―Cutting Edge Innovations and Future Prospects of Biotechnology‖, Dept. of Biotechnology,
SPMVV, Tirupati on 27.02.2017.
60
11. Lead/Invited Talk on Adaptation of Crops to Climate Change: Relevant Mechanisms and
Their Genetic Enhancement XIII Agricultural Science Congress at GKVK, Bangalore on
21-24thFeb, 2017
61
Response of Transcription factors and structure prediction showing respective small molecules.(i)
Expression analysis of HSFC1a gene under high temperature, drought, and oxidative stress
conditions. (ii) Representative structure of a few TFs and small molecule. a,c,e,g) structure and list
of small molecules for respective TFs, and b,d, f,h) Structure and interaction of small molecules
with TFs.
13. Dr. Pijush K. Das,
Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata
Title/Theme of the work being done :The work in my laboratory is centred on studying the biology
of macrophages with a view to formulating strategies for better therapy against macrophage-
associated diseases using visceral leishmaniasis as model macrophage disease. The key question we
try to address is how macrophage signaling pathways that lead to production of robust defense
molecules are hijacked by Leishmania parasites. Deciphered the intricate survival mechanism that
62
Leishmaniahas devised to frustrate macrophage defense signalling, which is a crucial contribution not
only in understanding the biology of Leishmaniaparasites but also suggests innovative targets to
arrest the infection process of macrophage-associated diseases in general.
1. Significant research / scientific findings during the period of report:The intracellular pathogen,
Leishmaniadonovani in order to survive inside the macrophage successfully, needs to overcome
the host defence mechanisms, like the secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine, IL-1beta. IL-
1beta is produced in its pro form which is activated by the inflammsome complex. Our work
unravels the interplay between the parasite and the host and interestingly, how the parasite exploits
the host negative regulatory proteins, A20 which inhibits Fib pathway and UCP2 which suppresses
ROS generation, in order to thrive successfully within the host cell. Earlier we only showed that
Leishmania markedly upregulates A20 and UCP2 during infection.We further showed that
Leishmania infection-mediated down regulation of programmed cell death 1 receptor (PD-1)
receptor and subsequent dampening of PD-1/SHP2 signaling helped the parasite in the sustenance
of infection-induced pro-survival AKT activation coupled with pro-apoptotic BAD inhibition,
thereby imparting host resistance to apoptosis. Regarding the cause of increased intracellular camp
we suggested that translocation of acidocalcisome in membrane vicinity functions as a trigger for
receptor adenylate cyclase LdRAC-A-driven CAMP generation through depletion of PPi pool by
the pyrophosphataseLdV-H+PPase. All these work have great potential in formulating robust
intervention strategies against the dreaded intra-macrophage disease visceral leishmaniasis of
national importance.
2. Publication(s):
i. Gupta A.K, Ghosh, K., Palit, S., Barua J., Das P.K. and Ukil A. (2017)
Leishmaniadonovani inhibits inflammasome-dependent macrophage activation by
exploiting the negative regulatory proteins A20 and UCP2. FASEB J.31, 5087-5101.
ii. RoyS., Gupta P., PalitS., BasuM., UkilA. and Das PK. (2017) The role of PD1 in
regulation of macrophage apoptosis and its subversion by Leishmaniadonovani. Clin.
Translational Immunol.6, e137; doi:10.1038/cti.2017.12
iii. Biswas, A., Bhattacharya, A., Vij, A. and Das, P.K. (2017) Role of leishmanial
acidocalcisomalpyrophosphatase in the cAMP homeostasis in phagolysosome conditions
required for intra-macrophage survival. Int. J Biochem. Cell Biol.86:1-13.
iv. Palit S. and Das P.K. (2018) Extracellular Matrix Interacting Proteins of
Trypanosomatids: Adhesion and Invasion of Host Tissues in Molecular Biology of
Kinetoplastid Parasites. Ed. Majumder, H.K., Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK. (In
press).
3. Award / Honour / Recognition:
Invited by Odisha Science Academy to act as a Member of the Expert Panel for Selection of
Awardees for Biju Patnaik Award for Scientific Excellence &Samanta Chandra Sekhar Award
on May 11-12, 2017 at Bhubaneswar.
4. Invited talk (s) / Lecture (s) delivered:
Series of Popular lecture of Science Awareness Programme of NASI and INSA organized by
NASI, Local Chapter Kolkata and INSA Local Chapter, Kolkata in various schools of West
Bengal.
63
14. Prof. Saraswathi Vishveshwara,
Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
Title: Network Approaches for understanding Structure-Function Relations in Proteins.
Theme of the work being done: Broadly, work has been carried out in the areas:
a) to develop mathematical techniques in the field of network theory to gain valuable insights with
minimal loss of information and (b) to apply network methods in combination with other
techniques to understand the structure-function relationships in proteins and their complexes.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
a) Methods have been developed to quantitatively evaluate the importance of each element
(node) and their connectivities (edges) in maintaining the integrity of a complex network. This is
achieved through perturbing the original network by systematically deleting the nodes and edges.
The effect of such perturbation is evaluated from the network scoring scheme (NSS), which was
recently developed under this project. The method is validated by investigating the structures of
beta adrenergic receptor proteins. A manuscript describing this work is under review [(reference 3)
International Journal of Advances in Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics (Springer
Series)].
b) Conformational dynamics in Pregnane X Receptor(PXR) ligand binding domain: Implications
in rational drug design
Ligand-regulated pregnane X receptor (PXR), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, plays
a central role in xenobiotic metabolism. Despite its critical role in drug metabolism, PXR
activation can lead to adverse drug-drug interactions and early stage metabolism of drugs. It has
been a challenge to find drugs that inhibit the function of PXR. As part of the current project,
extensive docking studies at multiple sites have been carried out to characterize the nature of PXR-
drug interaction. A manuscript, in collaboration with an experimental group from the Albert
Einstein College of Medicine, New York, is under preparation.
2. Publication(s):
i. Gadiyaram, V., Ghosh, S. and Vishveshwara, S., 2017. A graph spectral-based scoring
scheme for network comparison. Journal of Complex Networks, 5(2), pp.219-244.
doi.org/10.1093/comnet/cnw016
ii. Ghosh,S., Gadiyaram, V. and Vishveshwara, S., 2017. Validation of Protein Structure Models
using Network Similarity Score. Proteins: Structure, Function, and Bioinformatics.
doi: 10.1002/prot.25332
iii. C. Keasar …... A.C.B. Delbem C.A. Floudas A. Kloczkowski S. Oldziej M. Levitt H.
Scheraga C. Seok J. Soding S. Vishveshwara D. Xu S.N. Crivelli.,An analysis and evaluation
of the We Fold collaborative for protein structure prediction and its pipelines in CASP11 and
CASP12. Scientific Reports (2018)
iv. Gadiyaram,V, Dighe, A. and Vishveshwara, S., 2018. Identification of Crucial Elements for
Network Integrity: A Perturbation Approach through Graph Spectral Method.International
Journal of Advances in Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics (Springer Series)
Under Review.
64
3. Patents filed/collaborations established:Collaborations has been established with
community-wide protein structure evaluation group (reference 3) and with Prof. Sridhar Mani
of Albert Einstein college of Medicine (related to invited talk 2)
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
1. ―Graph spectral method for the analysis of protein structures‖ at the Center for the
Physics of Living Cells (CPLC), UIUC, Illinois, USA (September 15, 2017)
2. ―Dynamics of Pregnane X receptor-ligand binding domain: Implications in rational
drug design‖ at the Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College
of Medicine, New York, USA (October 4, 2017)
3. ―Graph spectral method for the analysis of protein structures‖ at Center for Integrative
Proteomics Research, Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA (October 5, 2017)
4. ―Protein Structure and Function: Looking through the Lens of Protein Side-Chain
Networks‖ IISER Pune, invited talk at IBS Satellite Meeting ( March 12, 2018)
15. Dr. Ashwani Kumar Rai,
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
Title/Theme of the work being done: Physiological responses to salt stress of salt-primed(-
adapted) and directly salt-stressed cyanobacterium Anabaena fertilissima
Salinity not only negatively influences plant growth and productivity, but affects microbial
diversity, community structure, metabolic processes and fertility of the soil. Hence, salt-tolerance
of agronomic beneficial microbes is a pertinent issue. Soil salinity in nature is generally mixed
type; however, most of the studies on salt-stress are performed with NaCl and little is known about
sulfur type of salinity (Na2SO4). Present study discerns the physiologic mechanisms responsible
for salt tolerance in salt-primed Anabaena fertilissima, and responses of directly stressed parent
cells to NaCl and NaCl+Na2SO4 mixture.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: Salinity affected the
cyanobacterium negatively, whether it was chloride, sulfate or mixed type. NaCl at 500 mM was
lethal to the cyanobacterium, whereas salt-primed cells grew luxuriantly. Salinity impaired gross
photosynthesis, electron transport activities, and respiration in parent cells, but not in the salt-
primed cells, except a marginal increase in PSI activity. Despite higher Na+ concentration in the
salt mixture, equimolar NaCl appeared more inhibitive to growth indicating differential effect of
both the salinities. Sucrose and trehalose contents and antioxidant activities were maximal in 250
mM NaCl-treated cells, followed by salt mixture and was almost identical in salt-primed (exposed
to 500 mm NaCl) and control cells, except a marginal increase in ascorbate peroxidase activity and
an additional fourth superoxide dismutase isoform. Catalase isoform of 63 kDa was induced only
in salt-stressed cells. Salinity increased the uptake of intracellular Na+ and Ca
2+ and leakage of K
+
in parent cells, while cation level in salt-primed cells was comparable to control. Though there was
differential increase in intracellular Ca2+
under different salt treatments, ratio of Ca2+
/Na+ remained
the same. It is inferred that pre-exposure of cyanobacterial cells to low and gradual increasing
concentration of salt enabled them to undergo priming effect and acquire robust and efficient
defense system involving the least energy compared to the directly induced defenses. This
technique appeared a simple and preferred way to make cyanobacterium salt tolerant and may be
65
tried to improve the nitrogen economy of the saline fields, and also to develop salt tolerance of
crop plants.
2. Publication(s)
i. Swapnil P and Rai AK. 2018. Physiological responses to salt stress of salt-adapted and
directly salt (NaCl and NaCl+Na2SO4 mixture)-stressed cyanobacterium Anabaena
fertilissima.Protoplasma. 255: 963–976. https://doi.org/10.1007/ s00709-018-1205-5.
ii. Pathak N, Bhaduri A and Rai AK. 2018. Sesame: Bioactive compounds and health benefits.
In: J.M. Mėrillon and K.G. Ramawat, (eds.) Reference Series in Phytochemistry. Bioactive
Molecules in Food, pp. 1-20, Springer International Publishing, Switzerland.
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-54528-8_59-1.
3. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report :
Metabolic Engineering: A Possible Promise to Salinity and World Food Security. Indira
Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak. MP.
16. Dr. R. Nagaraj,
CSIR- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hederabad
Title/Theme of the work being done: Antibacterial activity with special reference to human
defensins. Conformational preferences of beta turns directed towards understanding the
biophysical basis behind the formation of peptide nanostructures.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
a). Antimicrobial activity of human defensins.
Antibiofilm activity of human defensin analogs against pre-established biofilms of Escherichia
coli and Staphylococcus aureus were examined. Linear and linear fatty acylated analogs did not
show any activity while disulfide constrained analogs disrupted pre-established S. aureus biofilms.
Chimeric analogs of human beta-defensin 1 and h-defensin, hBTD-1 and [D]hBTD-1 were highly
active against S.aureus biofilms. Only the D-enantiomer [D]hBTD-1 showed activity against E.
coli biofilm. High selectivity of this chimeric defensin towards bacteria and its ability to kill both
planktonic and biofilm forms of bacteria make this peptide a promising template for making future
therapeutics against biofilms.
We have compared interactions of human α- and β- defensins that are active against Escherichia
coli, with its cell surface and inner membrane and model membranes. Zeta potential modulation
indicate variations in their surface charge neutralizing ability. Our research indicates that
mammalian defensins do not kill E. coli by a simple mechanism involving membrane
permeabilization though their antibacterial potencies are very similar.
b). Analysis of β-turns in proteins
β-Turns are important structural components in proteins. In type I‘β-turn, the ideal φ, ψ values
are allowed only in a small region in the Ramachandran map of L-amino acids except for Gly. We
have examined whether peptide segments that are part of protein structures with type I‘ Asn-Gly
turn, fold into type I‘β-turn conformation in isolation, by Molecular Dynamics Simulations. We
observed that the ability of peptides to fold into type I‘β-turn and flanking residues in β-strand
conformation was dependent on hydrophobic interactions between residues and back bone
hydrogen bonds.
2. Publication(s):
66
i. Jagannadham MV, Kameshwari DB, Gayathri P, Nagaraj R. (2017) Eur J Mass Spectrom
(doi:10.1177/1469066717748115).
ii. Sharadadevi A, Nagaraj R. (2017) J Biomol Struct Dyn. Nov 22:1-10.
doi:10.1080/07391102.2017.1403958.
iii. Mathew B, Olli S, Guru A, Nagaraj R. (2017) Bioorg Med Chem Lett. 27(15):3264-3266.
doi: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2017.06.031.
iv. Subbalakshmi C, Basak P, Nagaraj R. (2017 Biopolymers. 108(6). doi: 10.1002/bip.23033.
v.Mathew B, Nagaraj R. (2017) PLoS One. 12(4):e0175858. doi:
10.1371/journal.pone.0175858. eCollection 2017.
Confocal microscopic images of bacterial biofilms treated with human defensin analogs. [A] S.
aureus NCTC 8530 and [B] E. coli MG 1655. The biofilms were stained with BacLight Live/Dead
stain to visualize live [green] and dead [red] cells. hBTD-1, hybrid defensin analog and its D-
enantiomer [D] hbtd-1 (by R. Nagaraj, dated- 22/June/2018, Place: CCMB, Hyderabad)
17. Dr. Kanak Lata Dikshit,
Panjab University, Chandigarh
Title/Theme of the work being done: Structure-function studies on novel hemoglobins of
Mycobacteriumtuberculosis and their evaluation as new drug targets
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: Mycobacterium
tuberculosis (Mtb) is one of the most dreaded human pathogens that requires oxygen for its
cellular metabolism and survival. Three different classes of hemoglobins have been identified
in Mtb, but molecular mechanism of their function is unknown. Studies to understand
physiological functions of truncated hemoglobins, HbN and HbO and a two-domain
flavohemoglobin have been carried out. During this study, new forms of multi-unit and
chimeric forms of truncated hemoglobins, HbN and HbO, have also been identified in some
other pathogenic organisms, which have not been reported earlier. This work has been
published recently (Hade et. al., IUBMB Life, 2017). In continuation of this work, it has
been found that the truncated hemoglobin, HbO, undergoes post-translational modification in
a redox dependent manner that leads to dissociation of its dimeric assembly into monomer,
which carries high affinity for the membrane association. Thus under low oxygen, HbO gets
associated with the membrane and facilitates oxygen uptake of Mtb. This work is under
67
compilation for the communication. Further it has been unraveled that two domain
flavohemoglobin (FHb) carries two overlapping FAD binding domain, one of which is similar
to the FAD binding domain of respiratory D-lactate dehydrogenases. It has been demonstrated
that this co-factor binding site is functional and protein specifically oxidizes d-lactate and
participate in electron transfer. This work has been published recently in International
Journals of Biological Macromolecules (2018). Further studies on these novel hemoglobins
of Mtb are underway to understand their biological function by generating gene knock out
strains of MtbRa or M. bovis BCG for the HbN, HbO and FHb.
2. Publication(s)
1. Hade, M.D., Kaur, J., Chakraborti, P. K. and Dikshit, K. L. (2017) Multi-domain
hemoglonins: new class of the globin family exhibiting tandem repeats of globin units and
domain fusion. IUBMB Life 69, 479-488.
2. Thakur, K. K., Kumar, A.K., and Dikshit, K. L. (2018) Type II flavohemoglobin of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis oxidizes d-lactate and mediate electron transfer.
InternationalJournalofBiologicalMacromolecules.112, 868-875.
3. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
Recombinant Therapeutic Proteins: Challenges from Bench to Business: Invited talk at IMTECH, 25th
April, 2018. At workshop on Molecular Biotechnology/ Identification of novel multi-unit and chimeric
hemoglobins(Hade, et. al., 2017, IUBMB Life, 69, 479-488)
68
18. Professor Veena Tandon,
Biotech Park, Lucknow
Title/Theme of the work being done :“Massively Parallel Sequencing and Transcriptome
Analysis of Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex, a zoonotic intestinal worm parasite in India‖.
Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex is an echinostome intestinal trematode, commonly occurring as
natural infection in pigs and dogs and causes the disease (echinostomiasis) worldwide. The human
infection is acquired by ingestion of raw or poorly-cooked freshwater molluscs, fishes and
tadpoles. Pila (a snail) is the main source of transmission of infection to humans in rural plains of
India. In many areas of eastern UP and neighbouring Bihar, this fluke infection is emerging in
newer endemic foci.
The raw NGS data of whole genome sequences of A. sufrartyfex (deposited in NCBI GenBank:
BioProject Accession no.: PRJNA246746) is under study for the assembly and analysis of the
whole and mitochondrial genomes.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:During the year under
consideration the project work progressed as detailed vide infra:
All ribosomal DNA (ITS2, 5.8S and 28S) and mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 (mt CO1)
sequences of A. sufrartyfex Indian isolates that are available in public domain were compared with
nucleotide sequences of various Echinostomatidae trematodes and analyzed for phylogenetic and
evolutionary interrelationships within the echinostome group of trematode parasites.
The molecular data pertaining to members of Family Echinostomatidae (that contains 124
species under 21 genera), as available in public domain till date, includes 87,297 nucleotide
sequences, 3 complete genomes, 5 Bio Projects and 6 Bio Samples at NCBI.
The nucleotide sequences of rDNA (coding regions: 18S, 5.8S and 28S; and non-coding inter-
transcribed spacer regions: ITS1 and ITS2) and mtCO1 sequences for all members within the
echinostome group were mined from the NCBI database.
Phylogenetic trees were constructed based on sequence data of the mentioned gene marker
regions through MEGA software.
The well-resolved phylogenetic trees helped in inferring evolutionary relationships of A.
sufrartyfex with other echinostomatid taxa at the species, genus and family levels.
The mitochondrial genome of A. sufrartyfex contains 14,504 bp. However, the assembly of the
genome is in progress; there are a few gap areas in which gene order is yet to be resolved.
2. Publication(s)
Ramnath, Dutta, A.K. Dkhar, B.,Tandon, V.and Das, B. 2017. Biological significance of
phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase in a cestode parasite, Raillietina echinobothrida, and effect
of phytoestrogens on the enzyme from the parasite and its host, Gallus domesticus.
Parasitology. © Cambridge University Press 2017, doi:10.1017/ S0031182017000518.
Tandon, V., Das, B. and Kumar, S. 2017.Proteases of parasitic helminths: their metabolic role
in establishment of infection in the host, p 247-262. In: Chakraborti S, Chakraborti T and Dhalla
NS (Eds.)- Proteases in Human Diseases. ISBN 978-981-10-3162-5 (eBook) DOI
10.1007/978-981-10-3162-5. pp 513. Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.
Tandon, V. and Das B. 2018. Genistein: is the multifarious botanical a natural anthelmintic
too? Journal of Parasitic Diseases.
69
3. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report:
Elected- Fellow of The Linnean Society of London (October 2017)
4. Invited Talk (s)/ Lecture (s) delivered:
2017:
25-27 April- Plenary lecture on “Parasitology Today: Integration of OMICs
Technology”. 27th National Congress of Parasitology at NIMHANS, Bengaluru.
11 May- “Biology Today: Integration of OMICs Technology”.National Technology Day Celebrations at NASI (HQs).
27-28 October- Lecture on “Technological Empowerment of Women”. Chaired a session
on ‗Science Paper Writing: Part II. Science and Technology Sensitization Program- organized
byNASI-Lucknow Chapter and CSIR-NBRI.
3-4 November- Lecture on “Technological advancement & women”. NASI ―Sensitization
Workshop on ―Technological Empowerment of Women‖,IIT, Guwahati.
8-10 December- Attended 87th Annual Session of NASI & Symposium on ―Basic Research-
Its Role in National Development‖. Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune
2018:
22-24 February- Plenary lecture on “Understanding emerging Helminthozoonoses:
Application of Bioinformatics”. Co-chaired Technical Session-II with Dr. R C Mahajan
(SGPGI, Chandigarh). 28thNational Congress of Parasitology, ICMR-NITM, Belgavi,
Karnataka.
Figure1. Artyfechinostomum sufrartyfex
70
Figure 2. Circular diagram of A. sufrartyfex mitochondrial genome
19. Prof. M. Lakshmanan,
DST-SERB Distinguised Fellow,
Formerly NASI-Senior Scientist & DAE Raja Ramanna Fellow, Centre for Nonlinear
Dynamics, Bharthidasan University, Tiruchirapalli
Title/Theme of the work being done: ―Collective Dynamical Structures in Coupled
NonlinearSystems: Integrability, Chaos and Patterns‖
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: We have considered a PT-
invariant nonlocal nonlinear Schroedinger system and constructed more general bright soliton
solutions by using a non-standard Hirota's bilinearization method. Then, we have investigated the
propagation and collision dynamics of the obtained bright solitons. We have also considered the
general ordered quantum Hamiltonian of an interesting position dependent mass problem, namely,
the Mathews-Lakshmanan oscillator, and try to solve the quantum problem for all possible
orderings including Hermitian and non-Hermitian ones.
Recently, we have studied the stable amplitude chimera states in a network of locally coupled
Stuart- Landau oscillators and the chimera at the phase-flip transition of an ensemble of identical
nonlinear oscillators. Further, we have reported the occurrence of discontinuity induced Hopf
bifurcations and Neimark-Sacker bifurcations leading to quasiperiodic attractors in a memristive
MLC circuit by using Clarke's concept. We also consider a non-minimally coupled scalar field in
the background of homogeneous but anisotropic Kantowski–Sachs space–time model. The form of
the coupling function of the scalar field with gravity and the potential function of the scalar field
71
are not assumed phenomenologically, rather they are evaluated by imposing Noether symmetry to
the Lagrangian of the present physical system.
We have further investigated Lie point symmetry analysis of the nonlinear Helmholtz equation,
analyzed the integrability nature of the reductions and obtained group invariant solutions in the
form of travelling periodic waves and solitary waves. We have also obtained the exact one-spin
intrinsic localized excitation in an anisotropic Heisenberg ferromagnetic spin chain in a
constant/variable external magnetic field with Gilbert damping included. We have then pointed out
how an appropriate magnitude spin current term in a spin transfer nano-oscillator (STNO) can
stabilize the tendency towards damping.
2. Publication(s):
i. S. Stalin, M. Senthilvelan and M. Lakshmanan, Phys. Lett. A, 381, 2380-2385,
(2017).
ii. S. Karthiga, V. Chithiika Ruby, M. Senthilvelan and M. Lakshmanan, J. Math.
Phys., 58 (10), 102110 (2017).
iii. K. Sathiyadevi, S. Karthiga, V. K. Chandrasekar, D. V. Senthilkumar and M.
Lakshmanan. Phys. Rev. E, 95, 042301 (2017).
iv. P. R. Venkatesh, A. Venkatesan and M. Lakshmanan, Chaos 27, 083106, (2017).
A. Ishaq Ahamed and M. Lakshmanan, Int. J. Bifurc. Chaos, 27, 1730021
(2017).
v. K. Sakkaravarthi, A. G. Johnpillai, A. Durga Devi, T. Kanna and M. Lakshmanan,
Appl. Math. Comput. 331, 457-472 (2018).
vi. R. Mohanasubha, V. K. Chandrasekar, M. Senthilvelan and M. Lakshmanan,
Commun. Nonlinear Sci. Numer. Simul., 62, 213-228 (2018).
vii. S. Dutta, M. Lakshmanan and S. Chakaraborthy, Ann. Phys.,
viii. 393, 254-263 (2018).
ix. Kundu, S. Majhi, B. K. Bera, D. Ghosh and M. Lakshmanan, Phys. Rev. E, 97,
022201 (2018).
x. K. Premalatha, V. K. Chandrasekar, M. Senthilvelan and M. Lakshmanan, Chaos,
28, 033110 (2018).
xi. R. Gopal, V. K. Chandrasekar, D. V. Senthilkumar, A. Venkatesan and M.
Lakshmanan, Commun. Nonlinear Sci. Numer. Simul. 59, 30-46 (2018).
xii. M. Lakshmanan and Avadh Saxena, Phys. Lett. A, 382, 1890-1895 (2018).
3. Award/Honour/Recognition:
(i). Indian Physics Association R D Birla Award in Physics – 2014 (awarded in 2017)
(ii). DST-SERB Distinguished Fellowship Award (awarded in 2018
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
a. 3-5 April, workshop on Basic aspects of Nonlinear Dynamics and their applications at IISER,
Thiruvananthapuram.
b. 11-13 September, National conference on dynamical systems and chaos at Government
Arts College, Coimbatore.
c. 27 September, DST Inspire programme at University of Madras.
d. 4-6 October, Workshop on Quantum Mechanics at PSGR Krishnammal College for Women,
Coimbatore.
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20. Prof. K.N. Pathak,
Punjab University, Chandigarh
Title: Study of particle correlations in quantum systems
The project deals with the study of particle correlation in Quantum a gas i.e. Cold atomic Bose and
Fermi gases at nano Kelvin temperatures. We have completed a piece of work on the effect of
interactions on the transition temperature of Bose gas trapped in a harmonic potential. The results
are in agreement with the experimental observations. This has been published and reported in the
last report.
We have been also studying the ground state properties of one-dimensional quantum electron gas
of infinitely thin wire as well as wire of finite thickness. These systems show Luttinger Liquid
characteristics, reflecting power law behavior in the momentum distribution function.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: We have done the
Quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) simulation of ground state properties of quantum electron wire of
infinitely thin and finite thickness using CASINO code at high densities. Explicitly we obtained
the ground state energies, pair correlation functions, structure factor and momentum distribution
with realistic long range Coulomb interaction as 1/|x| and transversally confined harmonic wire.
From the simulation data of momentum density we have extracted its exponent around
Fk ~k which allow us to find Luttinger parameter K as a function of sr for the first time. Further,
the simulated static structure factor and pair correlation functions for infinitely thin wire are found
to agree with our recent high density theory.
We have also found the answers to old question that under what conditions the widely-used
RPA approximations in many-body theory is exact. Here it is found for the first time a relation for
the exact scaling of vertex corrections with the Fermi momentum in terms of the topology of Fermi
energy, the power-law of potential and the dimensionality. This exciting and simple new result
allows deciding beforehand about the trust of using a chosen approximation. It is expected to be of
widespread interest for the community studying correlations. We have obtained the new exact
analytical expressions for the exchange energy for a cylindrical and harmonic wire. Furthermore,
the ground state energy for thin wires in the high-density limit for realistic long-range Coulomb
interactions is obtained using density response function in conjunction with the fluctuation-
dissipation theorem. We expect that our formula for the correlation energy will have an impact on
the use of it in density functional calculations for such systems.
2. Publication(s)
1. Conditions where random phase approximation becomes exact in the high-
densitylimit(with Klaus Morawetz , Vinod Ashokan and Renu Bala). Phy. Rev. B 97,
155147 (2018)
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2. Dependence of structure factor and correlation energy on the width of
electronwires(with Vinod Ashokan, R. Bala, K. Morawetz). Eur. Phys. J. B 91, 29
(2018)
3. One-dimensional electron fluid at high density(with Vinod Ashokan, N. D.
Drummond)arXiv:1805.00344 [cond-mat.str-el] and under review Phys. Rev. B (2018)
3. Patents filed/collaborations established, if any during the period of report : Collaborations established
1) Prof. Klaus Morawetz
Professor, Muenster University of Applied Sciences, Department Physical
Engineering, Stegerwaldstrasse 39, 48565 Steinfurt, Germany; Tel: (+49) 2551 9 62411
Fax: (+49) 2551 9 62811; Email: [email protected]
2)Prof. N.D. Drummond
Department of Physics, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YB, UnitedKingdom;
Email: [email protected]
4. Award/Honour/Recognition:
1. Chairman of Institute ethic committee of Post Graduate Institute of Medical education
and research (PGIMER) by director
2. Member of Academic Council of central university of Punjab, Bhatinda
3. Member of governing council of Indian Association of Cultivation of Science,
Kolkata
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
Following collaborators have presented the work done in Chandigarh in the present project at
the following conferences/Seminar/Meeting:
1. Our work was presented by Dr. K. Morawetz at Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
(DPG) in spring meeting held in March 2018 at Germany on ―Conditions where
random phase approximation becomes exact‖
2. Renu Bala presented a poster on ―Transition temperature of trapped cold atomic Bose
gas‖ in a conference held at Nov/Dec 2017 at Physical Research Laboratory
Ahmadabad, India.
21. Prof. Govindarajan Padmanaban,
Indian Institute of Sciences, Bangalore
Title/Theme of the work being done :Malaria Parasite Biology- Drug Targets and Drug
Candidates-
Two projects are being pursued. 1. To investigate the role of the parasite heme-biosynthetic
pathway in Experimental Cerebral Malaria (ECM); 2. Mechanism of action of curcumin as an
adjunct drug to treat ECM.
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1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
The heme-biosynthetic pathway of the malaria parasite has been shown to be essential to cause
experimental cerebral malaria (ECM) in C57BL/6 mice infected with Plasmodium berghei (ANKA
strain). In the present study, the mechanisms involved were investigated. It was found that with
PbALAS(KO) and PbFC(KO) parasites, (Knock-out of the first and last genes of the pathway)
molecular markers governing inflammatory responses in the brain were down regulated. In
particular, there was significant down regulation of hmgb1 and hmgb2 mRNAs in brain. There was
a striking decrease in cellular occlusion in brain capillaries. There was a decrease in parasite
hemozoin content in the food vacuole and free heme levels in plasma. It is known that plasma free
heme levels increase in ECM. Studies are underway to examine the effect of inhibitors of the
parasite heme-biosynthetic pathway on ECM.
In the second project on the effect of curcumin as an adjunct drug to cure ECM, the studies
have led to the proposition of a new mechanism to explain the efficacy of curcumin, despite its
poor bioavailability and rapid metabolism. It was shown that with nanocurcumin (PLGA-
curcumin), the beneficial effects were seen at 15-fold less concentration of native curcumin. The
bioavailability of curcumin was increased by 3-4 fold, but it was still in the nanomolar range in
blood. It was proposed that curcumin is able to generate a memory effect mediated by immune
cells against parasite antigens generated by the primary drug (arteether). This would also explain
why curcumin can be effective in a large number of disease conditions as an adjunct drug. DCGI is
still examining the application to conduct a clinical trial with artesunate-curcumin combination to
treat malaria.
2. Publication(s)
1. Dende, C., Meena, J., Nagarajan, P., Nagaraj, V.A. and Padmanaban, G. (2017).
Nanocurcumin is superior to native curcumin in preventing degenerative changes in
Experimental Cerebral Malaria. Sci. Rep. Nat. Com.7, 10062.
2. Padmanaban, G. and Nagaraj, V.A. (2017) Curcumin may defy medicinal chemists.
ACS. Med. Chem. Lett. 8, 274.
3. Nagaraj, V. A. and Padmanaban, G. (2017). Insight on heme synthesis in the malaria
parasite. Trends Parasitol 33, 583-586.
3. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered, if any during the period of report:
Gave lectures on Drug targets in the malaria parasite, Growth of Biotechnology in India, Bio-
Medical Technology, Agr-biotech in different institutions in the country. Also, gave the
convocation address at Gulbarga University.
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Wild type PbALASKO PbFCKO
Explanation: The blood-brain-barrier (BBB) is broken in cerebral malaria of wild type mice
(control) as seen by Evan Blue staining of brain in vivo. However, in the two gene Knock-out
mice, which are not capable of making heme, the BBB is restored as seen by the inability of the
dye to cross the BBB. This demonstrates that parasite heme pathway is essential to cause cerebral
malaria and therefore is a drug target.
22. Prof. P. K. Seth,
Biotech Park, Lucknow
Project title: Identification of Biomarkers for selected neurological disorders using in-silico
approaches and their validation.
The magnitude and burden of mental, neurological, and behavioral disorders is huge, affecting
more than 450 million people worldwide. In India, more than 4 million people are suffering from
Alzheimer‘s disease (AD) while with an aging population the burden due to Parkinson‘s disease
(PD) will be enormous. However, there is no prospective study to estimate its incidence and
mortality. A WHO report estimated that neurological disorders contributed to 95 million disability-
adjusted life-years (DALY) in 2015 and was projected to reach to 103 million in 2030 worldwide.
The current project is aimed to identify and validate a set of candidate biomarkers for AD and PD
using bioinformatics tools.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: The available literature was
extensively analyzed and a review entitled ―Biomarkers for detection, prognosis and therapeutic
assessment of neurological disorders was published. (Rev Neurosciences 2018). The review
indicates that in spite of limitations, the In Silico approaches offer a remarkable advantage in
biomarker prediction for neurological diseases, particularly due to their involved complexity.
Further, AD and PD have multi factorial origin, generally there is interplay of aging, genetic,
epigenetic and environmental risk factors with resulting oxidative stress. The environmental
chemicals like metals and pesticide also impacts the outcome of neurological disorders.
Keeping in view that in Neurodegenerative diseases often result in progressive degeneration where
oxidative stress plays a significant role, attempts were made using in silico tools to design the
network among genes related with neuroprotective genes, neurodegenerative disorders and
establish correlation with Nrf2 gene. The overall comparative network analysis revealed that
NFE2L2, JUN, JUND, FOS genes to be closely associated with neuroprotection against oxidative
stress induced neurodegeneration in human. These highly conserved neuroprotective genes and
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their biological knowledge derived from protein-protein interactions and functional enrichment
will be further used for understanding the detailed biological mechanism associated with the
oxidative stress induced neurodegenerative disease and predicting possible biomarkers.
A study has been initiated using gene expression data of Substantia nigra postmortem brain
samples form control and PD cases, .available in Array Express database. The dataset has 25
samples of which 9 are normal and 16 are PD cases and as per Affymetrix Probe file, has data of
expression of 8561 genes. The differential Gene Expression analysis of dataset using BRB-Array
Tool showed that out of 8561 genes, 235 were differentially expressed. The scatter plot analysis of
these genes exhibited that 51 genes were up regulated in PD. Functional analysis of these 51 genes
showed that only 7 genes are significant in PD using DAVID tool. These 7 genes will be
investigated for their usefulness as a biomarker for PD.
Similar protocol is being used for Alzheimer‘s disease to obtain marker genes
2. Publication(s)
1. Sarita Singh, Sunil Kumar Gupta, Prahlad Kishore Seth. Biomarkers for detection, prognosis and
therapeutic assessment of neurological disorders. Rev Neurosci. 2018 Feb 21. pii:
/j/revneuro.ahead-of-print/revneuro-2017-0097/revneuro-2017-0097.xml. doi:10.1515/revneuro-
2017-0097. PubMed PMID: 29466244. (IF- 2.54).
2. Poster entitled ―Comparative phylogeny and structure-based virtual screening for the
identification of novel inhibitors against the mosquito-borne flavivirus envelope glycoprotein‖
Sunil Kumar Gupta, Sarita Singh, Prahlad Kishore Seth, Har Gobind Khorana Memorial
Symposium on Genes, Genomes & Membrane Biology, December 03-05, 2017, National Agri-
Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali.
3. Award/Honour/Recognition, if any during the period of report:
1. Prof. Mahdi Hasan Oration award in WORLD NEUROCONGRESS 2017, , Interdisciplinary
Brain Research Centre at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University,
Aligarh, December 9-10, 2017.
2. Re-elected member of International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI) India, Board
of Trustees for three years.
3. Appointed Coordinator, IBRO-IAN Global Neuroscience Advocacy Program.
4. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered: 1. ―Human Blood Lymphocytes for Monitoring DNA Damage due to Selected Environmental
Mutagens‖ 12th International Conference and 5th Asian Congress on Environmental Mutagens,
November 12-16, 2017, Seoul, Korea.
2. ―Challenges in Dealing With Lead Exposure in India‖ inMeeting on Prevention and
Management of Lead Poisoning (In collaboration with WHO-SEARO) June 14-16, 2017,
National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH), Ahmedabad.
77
Figure1.Country wise population (in millions) suffering from Dementia (Singh et al.2018, Reviews
in the neurosciences, DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2017-0097
Figure2.Steps in identification of biomarkers through microarray approach (Singh et al.2018,
Reviews in the neurosciences, DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2017-0097)
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23. Dr.Suchitra Banerjee,
CIMAP, Lucknow
Title/Theme of the work being done:
Title: Metabolic engineering through ―hairy root‖ cultures of Atropa belladonna – an endangered
medicinal plant, for therapeutically distinctive alkaloid production alternatives and targeted
derivatization of phytomolecules for value-addition.
Theme:Atropa belladonna, a pharmaceutically prized medicinal plant, produces two
therapeutically unique tropane alkaloids:- atropine and scopolamine. Their diversified therapeutic
applications include ophthalmology, cardiology and gastroenterology. The recent uses of
scopoalmine as antidepressant, prevention against vertigo/ motion-sickness, have further
escalated the global demand of this natural phytomolecule.
Pharmaceutical companies, however, endure serious impediments concerning these
phytomolecules, which include:-
I. Inadequate supply of authentic raw materials owing to its restricted preferential growth habitat
at high altitude Himalayan ranges and endangered condition.
II. Poor water solubility causing reduced bio-availability and concurrent lowered therapeutic
potency.
To address these bottlenecks, multi-pronged approach has been initiated under this project:
(i) Generation of efficient production alternative through Agrobacterium rhizogenes
induced hairy roots in bioreactor.
(ii) Metabolic engineering viacloning of glucosyltransferase gene from heterologous plant
system for:
(a) Ingrained in-planta glucosylation of the inherent metabolites in HR clones to
increase their bioavailability;
(b) Improving the biotransformation efficiency of the resultant HR clones towards
steering glucosylation of exogenous substrates.
(iii) Broadening of the genetic base of A. belladonnagermplasm through somaclonal
breeding approach to assimilate wider adoptability.
Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
(i) Generation of efficient production alternative:Agrobacterium rhizogenesATCC 15834 strain
mediated hairy root (HR) induction was successfully achieved inA. belladonna with95 ± 2.8 % of
transformation frequency. A total of four HR clones with perpetual uninterrupted faster growth and
branching characteristics showed positive Rol B and C genes‘ expressions confirming their
transformed nature. Media optimization and growth kinetics analysis demonstrated the maximum
growth potentials of all the HR clones on the 30th day of cultivation in half strength hormone-free
MS liquid medium. The HPLC quantification procedure has been optimized using reverse phase
HPLC (Waters Corporation, USA) with isocratic operational mode and Acetonitrile: Phosphate
Buffer :: 25:75 (v/v) as the solvent system. The best resolution was recorded between peaks as well
as base-line at 235 nm and retention time of 6.20 and 7.82 min for scopolamine and atropine
standards respectively (peak purity >92 %). All the four HR clones revealed atropine and
scopolamine synthesizing potentials with prominent inter-clonal variability. One HR clone with
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the maximum content of atropine (AB HR-8 clone: 722.51 ± 7.20 μg/g DW) and another one with
the maximum content of scopolamine (AB HR-9: 554.37 ± 5.04 μg/gm DW) demonstrated the
future prospect of the presently undertaken project in utilizing the HR clones of A. belladonna as
the production alternative of these therapeutically significant phytomolecules (Figure. 1).
(ii) Metabolic engineering approach: In an attempt to address the second objective of this
project, isolation and cloning of glucosyltransferase gene (CaUGT2) from the C. roseuswere
successfully carried out for its heterologous expression in A. belladonna hairy root clones. The
isolated gene from the cDNA of C. roseus was sub-cloned in pGEMT easy vector and confirmed
through sequencing (ABI Sequencer). The resulting cascade (CaMV35S promoter along with
CaUGT2 – Ter) was subsequently cloned in pGreen 0029 binary vector at the site of Not I. The
confirmed gene (1.464 kb size) was finally mobilized to the A. rhizogenesATCC 15834 strain
which was further confirmed through colony PCR. The induction of hairy roots in A. belladonna
with the transformed A. rhizogenes strain is under progress (Figure. 2).
Publication(s)
i. Singh S, Pandey P, Ghosh S, Banerjee S (2018) Anticancer labdane diterpenoids from
adventitious roots of Andrographis paniculata: augmentation of production prospect
endowed with pathway gene expression. Protoplasma, DOI: 10.1007/s00709-018-1211-7.
ii. Banerjee S (2018) Voyaging through chromosomal studies in hairy root cultures towards
unravelling their relevance to medicinal plant research: An updated review. Nucleus
61:3–18.
Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
1. Delivered lecture on- ―Spotlight on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Unlocking
Entrepreneurial Potential and Employment Opportunities‖ during the ―Science and
Technology Sensitization Program‖ for Uttarakhand, organized by The National
Academy of Sciences (NASI), Allahabad and Kumaun University, Nainital on 9th
-11th
June, 2017 at the Kumaun University, Nainital.
2. Delivered lecture on- ―Agriculture and Women‖ in the ―Science and Technology
Sensitization Program‖, organized by The National Academy of Sciences (NASI)
Allahabad and CSIR- National Botanical Research Institute, during 27th
-28th
October
2017, held at CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow.
80
Two Photographs related to the project:
Figure: 1- Generation of efficient metabolite production alternativethroughAgrobacterium
rhizogenes induced hairy roots
Figure: 2-Metabolic engineering via cloning of heterologous glucosyltransferase gene in A.
belladonna hairy root
24. Professor N.K. Lohiya,
University of Rajasthan, Jaipur
Theme of the work being done: The project entitled ―Evaluation of anticancer effects of Carica
papaya leaves/seeds extract (s) on prostate cancer cell lines, LNCaP and PC-3‖ involves critical
analysis of C. papaya extracts for anticancer potential. While LNCaP is an androgen-sensitive and
81
expresses prostate specific antigen (PSA) and androgen receptors (AR), PC-3 cells do not express
PSA and AR and are androgen-independent. Further the objective is to explore various molecular
mechanisms involved in tumorogenic properties in prostate cancer cell lines in response to
treatment with C. papaya leaves/seeds extract.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
C. papaya leaves extract displayed dose dependent growth inhibition in PC-3 prostate cancer cell
lines. Maximum cell death was observed at concentration of 2 mg/ml at 72 h post treatment with
55.59% cell death as measured by MTT-based assay. Significant inhibition in cell proliferation
was observed in PC-3 cells treated with 1 mg (40%; P< 0.001) and 2 mg C. papaya leaves extract
(52.5%, P<0.001). These results suggest that C. papaya leaves extract inhibits the cellular growth
of prostate cancer cell line PC-3.
2. Publication(s)
i. Bhargava A, Pathak N, Seshadri S, Bunkar N, Jain SK, Kumar DM, Lohiya NK, and Mishra
PK. Pre-Clinical Validation of Mito-Targeted Nano-Engineered Flavonoids Isolated from
Selaginella bryopteris (Sanjeevani) As A Novel Cancer Prevention Strategy. Anti-cancer
Agents in Medicinal Chemistry (2017). doi: 10.2174/1871520618666171229223919. [Epub
ahead of print]
ii. Bhargava A, Pathak N, Sharma RS, Lohiya NK, Mishra PK. Environmental Impact on
Reproductive Health: Can Biomarkers Offer Any Help? Journal of Reproduction & Infertility
18 (3): 336, (2017).
iii. Talwar GP, Nand KN, Gupta JC, Bandivdekar AH, Sharma RS and Lohiya NK Current status
of a unique vaccine preventing pregnancy. Frontiers in Bioscience (Elite Ed). 9: 321-332,
(2017).
iv. Ansari AS, Sevliya K, Mohammad I and Lohiya NK. Plants for Female Fertility Regulation: A Review. Journal of Pharmacology & Toxicology 12: 57-75 (2017).
v. Lohiya NK, Alam I and Ansari AS. Male Contraception. In: Basics of Andrology: A
Textbook (Anand Kumar and Mona Sharma, Eds.), Chapter 29, Springer Nature, Singapore Pte. Ltd., pp. 493-508 (2017).
vi. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK. Fertility control modalities in animals: An overview.
BAOJ Veterinary Science 1(1): 004 (1-11) (2017).
vii. Mohammad I, Khilwani B, Ansari AS and Lohiya NK. Contraceptive Vaccines: Implications
in Male and Female Fertility Regulation In: Molecular Medicine: Bench to Bedside and
Beyond (SK Gupta and NK Lohiya, Eds). Indian Society for the Study of Reproduction and
Fertility, Jaipur, pp. 57-83 (2018).
viii. Mohammad I, Badar A, Ansari AS and Lohiya NK. Langur monkey as a suitable model for
long-term contraceptive studies. ISSRF Newsletter, Issue 21, February, (2018).
ix. Bunkar N, Bhargava A, Chaudhury K, Sharma RS, Lohiya NK and Mishra PK. Fetal nucleic
acids in maternal plasma: from biology to clinical translation. Frontiers in Bioscience
(Landmark Ed) 23:397-431, (2018).
x. Ansari AS, Badar A and Lohiya NK. Safety evaluation through genotoxicity and apoptotic
markers following RISUG® induced contraception and its reversal in male rabbits.
Reproductive Toxicology (Revised manuscript submitted).
3. Patents filed/collaborations established:
Dr. Anil K. Suri, FNASc,FAMS, Professor of Eminence, Former Director, National Institute
of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India.
82
4. Award/Honour/Recognition:
1. Conferred with Outstanding Biomedical Scientist Award for his valuable contributions in
reproductive health research during the interactive seminar held at Ashoka Club, Jaipur on
29th October; 2017, as part of the NAMS activity.
2. Pragya Academy conferred Pragya Environment Award in recognition of his outstanding
contribution in the field of Environment and Reproductive Health during Seminar on Climate
Change and Water Crisis in India held at Hotel Vesta Maurya Palace, Jaipur on Tuesday, 5th
June, 2018
5. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
a. Delivered presidential address during
-National Seminar on Reproductive Health Advances for Adolescents, during September
8-9, 2017 held at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana.
-World Congress on Reproductive Health with Emphasis on Family Planning and
Assisted Reproductive Technology & 28th Annual Meeting of ISSRF during February
23– 25, 2018, held at CSIR-IICT, Hyderabad.
b. Active participation in the National Conference on Technological Empowerment of
Women, organized by NASI, during March 8-9, 2018 held at Vigyan Bhawan, New
Delhi.
c. Chaired a scientific session during the World Congress on Cancer (WCC-2018) organized
by Dr. Anil Suri, during February 3-5, 2018 held at the Mahatma Gandhi University of
Medical Sciences and Technology, Jaipur.
25. Prof. Girjesh Govil, TIFR, Mumbai
Title of the Project: Applications of NMR Spectroscopy to Biological Systems.
Significant Research during the period:
I started working as NASI Senior Scientist in April 2017. The objectives were to do research and
teaching in the field. The main field of research was to study the effect of membrane active drugs
on biological membranes.
Publication(s)
i) Localization and Orientation of Methoxy Flavonoids in DPPC bilayers: Effect of their anti-
proliferative activity: R. Sinha, U. Joshi, A. Joshi and Girjesh Govil, Int. J. Curr.
Pharmaceutical Research, 10, 67 (2018)
83
ii)Physical Methods for Determination of Biomolecular Structures, Anurag Govil and Girjesh
Govil, Proc. Nat. Aca. Sciences, (Physical Sciences) A(2018)
Invited Lectures: I gave lectures on NMR spectroscopy in Mumbai, Bangalore and Hyderabad.
Some of these lectures were supported by the Royal Society for Chemistry, UK.
26. Prof. A.C. Kunwar,
IICT, Hyderabaad
Title/Theme of the work being done:Peptidic foldamers, both homo- and hetero-, derived from
higher homologues of α-amino acids are playing a wide variety of roles in chemistry and biology.
Enhancing the directory of foldamers with novel folding patterns is crucial for the growth of the
field. This facet of the area has considerably benefitted by recognizing the involvement of
backbone-side chain interactions. The project aims at utilizing these aspects to gain new insights
on novel foldamers. Other feature of the project pertains to deducing detailed molecular structures
as a facilitator in understanding the pathways in complex organic synthesis.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:
A) Solvent-directed „switch‟ of handedness of a helix: The phenomenon of the alteration in
handedness of a helical structure in designed molecules by external influences like, temperature,
pressure and solvent etc. is rarely observed. Detailed NMR and CD investigations in regular 1:1 β-
peptides, containing β-hGly and C-linked carbo-β-amino acid (β-Caa(l)) with a D-lyxo furanoside
side chain, provided us with one such unprecedented opportunity. NMR studies on peptides
containing β-hGly in the N-terminus displayed a left-handed 10/12-helix in CDCl3, whereas in
CD3OH interestingly, they presented a right-handed 12/10-helical structure. The observations in
CD3CN revealed the co-existence of both helix types.
B) Revision of the structure of 4,8-dihydroxy-3,4-dihydrovernoniyne (1) and diplopyrone (2):
Natural products bearing unsymmetrical 1,3-diynesare unique rod like structures and display
several bioactivity profiles. These natural products are relatively unstable and reactive.Similarly
natural products containing 5,6-dihydropyran-2-one moieties exhibit interesting biological
activities. Total synthesis of 1 was undertaken by our colleagues. A mismatch in the NMR spectra
of the synthesized molecule compared to the natural-product was observed. The reported structure
was revised by synthesizing another stereo-isomer and undertaking detailed NMR studies. First
asymmetric and innovative total synthesis of the putative structure of 2 was also achieved by our
colleagues. Serious discrepancies in NMR showed the need to revise the reported structure.
Our colleagues developed an interesting methodology to convert vinylfuranosylamines and
vinylpyranosylamines to 2,5- and 2,6-disubstituted piperidine and pyrrolidine iminosugars
respectively. NMR spectral analysis of these multiply substituted ring systems required very
careful analysis for validating the synthetic strategies.
2. Publication(s)
a) Solvent-Directed Switch of a Left-Handed 10/12-Helix into a Right-Handed 12/10-Helix in
Mixed β-Peptides. P. Thodupunuri et al.,J. Org. Chem., 82, 2018-2031 (2017).
84
b) Total Synthesis and Stereochemical Revision of the Structure of 4,8-Dihydroxy-3,4-
dihydrovernoniyne – Total synthesis and NMR studies. S. Kanikarapu et al., Org. Lett., 19,
4167-4170 (2017).
c) Asymmetric Total Synthesis of the Putative Structure of Diplopyrone. S. Maity et al., J. Org.
Chem., 82, 4561-4568 (2017).
d) Palladium-Catalyzed Double Allylation of Sugar-Imines by Employing Tamaru–Kimura‘s
Protocol: Access to Unnatural Iminosugars. A. Naresh et al., Org. Lett., 19, 1642-1645
(2017).
3. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered
Invited talk at NMR Research Centre, IISc. Bangalore.
27. Dr. Sanjeev Dhurandhar,
IUCAA, Pune
Title/Theme of the work being done: Given the recent discovery of gravitational waves, the
worldwide network of gravitational wave detectors and the recently approved Ligo-India detector to
be constructed in India, it is vital to devise and develop efficient data analysis strategies. We focus on
important gravitational sources such as coalescing compact binaries of black holes and neutron stars
and a newly proposed source – the mini creation event of the quasi steady state cosmology. We
develop methods and techniques of data analysis to detect and measure such signals from the
detector data based on Bayesian techniques, vetoing procedures and hierarchical methods with high
efficiency.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report :
(i) Gravitational wave signature of a mini creation event (MCE):
In light of the recent discoveries of binary black hole events by the gravitational wave detectors,
we have proposed a new astrophysical source, namely, the mini creation event (MCE) as a
possible astrophysical source. By matched filtering the signal we find that, for a broad range of
model parameters, the signal to noise ratio of the randomly oriented MCE is sufficiently high for a
confident detection by advanced detectors. We propose the MCE as a viable astrophysical source
fordetection. It also holds implications for the quasi steady state cosmology.
(ii) Optimal Chi-square discriminators for sine-Gaussian glitches in detector data:
Matched filtering, the commonly employed technique for extracting known signals from noise is
by itself not sufficient to distinguish the signal from the noise. Often these noise features or
glitches have large power and even if their match may be small with the template bank, they
produce detectable triggers. Additional vetoing techniques are required to discriminate the noise
from the signal. We have proposed a unified theory of discriminators. A constructive procedure is
proposed which can be applied to glitches which can be modeled. We apply this procedure to sine-
Gaussian glitches which are ubiquitous in the data.
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(iii) The Bayesian statistic which is more powerful than the maximum likelihood statistic suffers
from the draw back that it requires large computational resources. We do the marginalization
analytically by a clever choice of the amplitude parameters obtained through group theoretic ideas.
2. Publication(s)
Gravitational wave signature of a mini creation event (MCE).S. V. Dhurandhar and J. V.
Narlikar, Classical & Quantum Gravity,35, 135003 (2018).
This paper will appear in the forthcoming issue of the journal in July 2018.
3. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
Lecture course:
Taught a 20 lecture course at IUCAA January-March 2018 on Differential Geometry and Lie
Groups: Applications to Data analysis.
Talks:
(i) On Nobel Prize in Physics 2017: Gravitational Waves - Einstein'sMessengers on Science Day,
28th February 2018, Science Day, at IUCAA.
(ii) On Gravitational Waves: Einstein's Messengers on 27th March 2018, at Govt. college of
engineering, Awasari, Manchar.
28. Prof. M. Vijayan,
Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
Title/Theme of the work being done: Structural Biology of Mycobacterial Proteins.
Much of the work is planned to be concerned with structural and related studies on proteins
involved in DNA recombination and repair including prevention of damage. The proteins
investigated would include LexA, RecGwed and MutT proteins. Proteins involved in selected
metabolic pathways would also be examined. Such proteins would include pantothenate kinase, -
hydroxyisobutyrate dehydrogenase and argininosuccinate lyase. Another component of the work
proposed to be carried out would involve mycobacterial lectins. Initiation of structure based design
of inhibitors for selected TB proteins is also envisaged.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report: The present report outlines
the work carried out during a very short period of 2 months. Therefore, much of the work is
preliminary in nature. However, substantial progress has been made in the characterization of
previously annotated hypothetical protein RecGwed and its probable role as a novel regulator in the
resolution of branched DNA structures. The protein is composed of an unusually charged N-
terminus and a C-terminal ‗wedge‘ domain, similar to the wedge domain of RecG. A database
search suggested that RecGwed is predominantly present in the phylum Actinobacteria, along with
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some other known human pathogens. The full description of work on this protein and results
thereof will be presented in next year‘s work report. The same is true about the work on
mycobacterial sanitization enzyme MutT2 which is specific to non-canonical nucleotides
containing cytosine. It is of considerable interest to explore the specificity of this enzyme and
compare its structure and function with those of MutT1 which has been thoroughly investigated
earlier in this laboratory. Critical comparison with structure and function of enzymes homologous
to mycobacterial MutT2 is also envisaged. Structural and related studies on -hydorxyisobutyrate
dehydrogenase are also in progress. We plan to critically examine the interaction of this protein
with co-enzyme and substrates/substrate analogues through preparation of binary and ternary
complexes.
29. Dr. Krishna Pal Singh,
Botanical Survey of India, Allahabad
Title/Theme of the work being done: Revision and reassessment of Lichenized genus Porina
Ach. (Porinaceae) from India and preparation of an identification manual of macrolichens of
biodiversity hotspot: Arunachal Pradesh.
Significant Research/Scientific findings during the period of the report:
In connection with the project work, the macrolichens of Arunachal Pradesh were undertaken for
investigations
Laboratory investigations:
(a) The genus Lobaria (Schrab.) Hoffm., a widely distributed macrolichen genus in tropical and
temperate regions of Arunachal Pradesh was worked out according to well established
lichenological techniques and identified in to 12 species. Fourspecies were new records for
Arunachal Pradesh.
(b) Another macrolichen genus Heterodermia Trev., comprising30 species from Arunachal
Pradesh was studied and identification key prepared.
Lichen collection field tour:
A field tour to collect the species of Porina Ach. and other lichens in the vicinities of Nigrim,
Pynursula, Langkawet, Lympung, BSI Woodland Campus, Shillong and Barapani BSI garden in
the East Khasi Hills district of the state of Meghalaya was under taken from 06.03.2018 to
17.3.2018. About 170 specimens of lichens were collected, processed and incorporated in the BSA
herbarium. It is observed that crustose lichen biota belonging to genera Porina, Cryptothecia,
Thelotrema, Graphis etc. were predominant and found growing on, Exbuculandia populnea,
Cinnamomum tamala, Pongamia pinnata, Musa ferrea, Agathis sp.etc. in the tropical areas.
Porina species grow in shady places. An interesting species – Haematomma accolens (Stirt.)
Hillm. was also collected after a gap of 136 years from the tropical areas of the state.
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Achievements (2017- 2018):
(i) New species discovered: 02 species
(ii) New record for India discovered: 04 species
(iii)New combinations made: 06 species
(iv) New collections from Meghalaya:170 specimens
(v) Lectures delivered at various places in the country: 06
(vi) Macrolichen genera Heterodermia and Lobaria were worked out
(vii) Papers published in peer reviewed journals: 06 nos.
Publication(s)
1. Singh P., TAM Jagadeesh Ram & K.P. Singh 2017. A new species of Leioneuma
(Ascomycotina, Ostropales) from Great Nicobar Islands, India, Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon.
24(1): 9-12.2017 (June).
2. Singh P., TAM Jagadeesh Ram & K.P. Singh 2017. Records of graphidioid Graphidaceae
(Lichenized Ascomycotina) from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India Geophytology 47
(1): 37-44 (May).
3. Singh, K.P., P. Singh and G.P. Sinha 2018. Lichen diversity in the Eastern Himalaya
biodiversity hot spot region, India. Crypto. Biod. Ass. Spl Vol. eISSN: 2456-0251, 71-114.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21756/Cab.esp9
4. Singh, P. & K.P. Singh 2017. New Combinations in the family Graphidaceae (lichenized
Ascomycota: Ostropales) from India 2017. The lichenologist, 49(5): 521-533. Doi:
10.1017/50024282917000330
5. Singh P., TAM Jagadeesh Ram & K.P.Singh 2018. New records of Graphidoid Graphidaceae
(lichenized Ascomycota: Ostropales) for India from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Indian Forester 144(2): 200-202. http://www.indianforester.co.in
ISSN No. 2321-094X (online)
6. Singh, P., Y.Joshi & K.P. Singh 2017. A new Lichenocolous species of Melaspilea
(Melaspileaceae; Arthoniales) from India. Acta Bot. Hungarica 59(3-4): 439-443. 2017. Doi.
10.1556/034.59.2017.3-4.9
Award/Honor/Recognition, if any during the period of report :
Recipient of Dr. D.D. Awasthi Memorial Life Time Achievement Award 2018 from the
Indian Lichenological Society (ILS).
Invited talk(s) lecture(s) delivered, if any, during the period of report:
1. Participated in a workshop on ―Lichen identification and Nomenclature”held at Botanical
Survey of India Allahabad from 10th.
-11th
Nov., 2017 and delivered a lecture on ―Diversity of
Indian lichens”.
2. Participated in Indian academies of Sciences (IASC, NASI, INSA) sponsored lecture
workshop on ―Concepts in Classical Plant Taxonomy” held at Govt. Degree College,
Armoor, Nijamabad, Telangana from 28th
to 29th
December, 2017 and delivered following
two lectures.
(i) Collection and Preservation of lichenized fungi.
(ii) Methodology of study and identification of lichenized fungi.
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3. Attended and presided over a session in a National Conference on ―Current
developmentsand next generation lichenology” at National Botanical Research Institute,
Lucknow organized by Indian Lichenological Society, Lucknow (ILS) from 27th to 28
th
January 2018 and delivered Dr. D.D. Awasthi memorial lecture on “Role of Botanical
Survey of India in the development of Lichen taxonomy in India”.
4. Attended National Seminar on “Reaching the Unreached through Science and
Technology” organized by Allahabad Chapter Indian Science Congress Association, Dept. of
Chemistry, University of Allahabad from 24th to 25
th February, 2018 and delivered a lecture
on ―Indian lichen diversity and its significance”.
5. Participated in a National Seminar on “Himalayan Plant Diversity, Taxonomy,
Conservation and Sustainable utilization” organized by Botanical Survey of India, Shillong
in Collaboration with North Eastern Hill University, Shillong and East Himalayan Society for
Spermatophytes taxonomy from March 8th
to 9th, 2018 and delivered a lecture on
“Assessment of Indian lichen diversity with special reference to Indo-Burma
Biodiversity hot spot”.
Fig. Haematomma accolens (Stirt.) Hillm.: Re-collected after a gap of 136 years from India. A.
Habit; B. Vertical section of an apothecium after treatment with K; C. ascospore. Scale bar: A= 1mm,
B= 100 μm, C=10 μm.
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30. Prof. Gyan Chand Mishra,
National Centre for Cell Sciences, Pune
Title: Studies on regulation of development of T-regulatory and T-helper 17 cells
Theme of research:T-regulatory (Tregs) and T-helper 17 (Th17) cells are the subsets of CD4+ T-
cells with opposing functions. Tregs are immunosuppressive, whereas Th17 cells are pro-
inflammatory in nature. In order to maintain immunological homeostasis, a perfect balance is
required between anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cells. However, in autoimmunity, this
equilibrium shifts toward proinflammatory cells i.e. Th17 cells. Restoring Tregs/Th17 cells
balance using cytokine therapy or any pharmacologically active compound might be useful in the
treatment of autoimmune disorders.
Previous studies from our lab showed that Interleukin-3 (IL-3) enhanced the differentiation of
mice regulatory T cells in the presence of TGF-β1 and IL-2. Moreover, IL-3 treatment also
reduced the severity of collagen induced arthritis by down regulating the expression on pro-
inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-17A, TNF-a, and IL-1). To corroborate this finding, we aim to
investigate its role in human Tregs differentiation. Furthermore, we are also examining the role of
IL-3 on Th17 cells development in mice.
1. Significant research/scientific findings during the period of report:In our previous reports, we
showed that IL-3 is an essential component of immunological tolerance, since it promotes
regulatory T cells and inhibits the development of pathogenic Th17 cells. In order to investigate
mechanism of IL-3 action on human Tregs, we examined the phosphorylation of STAT-5 which is
known to regulate the FoxP3 expression, a key transcription factor involved in Tregs development.
We isolated human CD4+ T cells, these cells were stimulated with IL-3 for 15, 30 and 45 minutes
respectively. IL-2 is well known activator of STAT-5 in resting T-cells, was used as a positive
control. After treatments, cells were fixed and permeabilised followed by intracellular staining
with fluorescent conjugated anti-pSTAT-5 antibody and median fluorescence intensity (MFI) of
pSTAT-5 calculated and normalized to MFI of pSTAT-5 in untreated cells. In inactivated CD4+T,
there was no STAT-5 phosphorylation in IL-3 treated groups, while IL-2 treatment phosphorylated
STAT-5 at all the time points (Fig: 7A). Furthermore, CD4+ T cells were stimulated for 4 days
with anti-CD3/CD28, activation beads were removed and cells were rested for 4hrs in serum free
X-VIVO-15 medium and then treated with IL-3 for 15 minutes, As shown in (Fig:7B), IL-3
treatment significantly enhanced MFI of pSTAT-5 in activated Th cells. So here we demonstrate
that IL-3 activate STAT-5 in T cell receptor stimulated human CD4+ T cells, whereas
unstimulated Th cells do not responds to IL-3. This finding further validates our previous studies
on human CD4+ T-cells that activated CD4
+ T cells express IL-3 receptor while freshly isolated
human Th cells lack IL-3 receptor expression. In conclusion, IL-3 regulates the expression of
FoxP3 by activating JAK-2- STAT-5 pathway.
90
2. Publication(s)
1. Rani L, Kumar A, Pote ST, Mishra GC*, Wani MR. Interleukin-3 alleviates the disease
activity in collagen induced arthritis by reducing T-helper 17 cells (Manuscript under
submission).
2. Garimella MG, Kour S, Piprode V, Mittal M, Kumar A, Rani L, Pote ST, Mishra GC,
Chattopadhyay N, Wani MR. Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Prevent
Systemic Bone Loss in Collagen-Induced Arthritis. J Immunol. 2015 Dec 1;
195(11):5136-48.
3. Pandey SP, Doyen N, Mishra GC, Saha B, Chandel HS (2015). TLR9-deficiency reduces
TLR1, TLR2 and TLR3 expressions in Leishmania major-infected macrophages. Exp
Parasitol.154:82-6.
3. Invited Talk (s)/Lecture (s) delivered:
1. Inspire Science Camp held between 12-16, Oct.-2017 at Dayanand Science
College, Latur, Maharashtra. (Sponsored by DST).
Title of the talk ―Science in life, life in science‖
2. Inspire internship camp, 2018, at H.R. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education
and Research, Shirpur, Maharashtra. (Sponsored by DST).
Title of the talk ―Science in life, life in science‖
3. Participated in panel discussion on ―Basic Research - its Role in National
Development‖ organized by NASI in its 87th annual session and symposium held
between 8-10 December-2017 at S.P. Pune University, Ganeshkhind, Pune-
Maharashtra.
91
Figure-: IL-3 activates STAT-5 in T cell receptor stimulated CD4
+ T cells: A) Human CD4
+ T
cells were isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and treated with IL-3, IL-
2 for 15,30 and 45 minutes, fixed/permeabilised and stained with p-STAT-5 antibody for 45
minutes. After staining cells were washed and data were analyzed on BD canto-II flow cytometer
B) CD4+ T-cells were isolated from PBMCs and stimulated with anti CD3/CD28 coated T-cell
activation beads for 4 days, activation beads were removed and cells were kept in serum free
media X-VIVO-15 media for the next 4hrs and then treated with IL-3 for 15 minutes. Cells were
fixed/permeabilised and stained with p-STAT-5 antibody for 45 minutes. After staining, cells
were washed and data were analyzed on BD canto-II flow cytomet.
31. Prof. S.V. Bhatt,
Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
1. Research:During the period, we continued our studies of the fascinating phenomena in doped
manganites and obtained certain interesting results. A detailed analysis of the switching of the
sign of the magneto crystalline anisotropy (MA) as a function of temperature was carried out.
It was observed that the sign of MA in both bulk and nanoparticle- samples of
La0.85Sr0.15MnO3and in nanoparticle-sampleof La0.875Sr0.125MnO3 switched as a function of
temperature even though the bulk sample of the latter composition did not show this effect. The
main difference in the two bulk samples is the order of the JT and FM transitions: in the former
sample, the JT transition is within the FM phase while in the latter, FM transition follows the JT
transition. Therefore we conclude that in the nanoparticles of this sample the order of the JT and
the FM transitions is reversed. The results of the analysis are being written up for publication.
Doping of Cr in the manganese sites of the manganites is known to lead to interesting changes in
their properties. In another work, we study the effects of 10% Cr ion substitution in sites of Mn ion
in Bi0:5Sr0:5MnO3. It is known that Bi0:5Sr0:5MnO3 undergoes an antiferromagnetic (AFM)
transition at ~110 K and a charge ordering (CO) transition at ~525 K. We have carried out
structural, magnetic and EPR studies of Bi0:5Sr0:5Mn0:9Cr0:1O3 (BSMCO). Magnetization
measurements done from 400 K down to 4 K show that the compound is in the paramagnetic (PM)
phase till 50 K. At ~50 K sample undergoes a transition to a phase exhibiting signatures of both a
spin/cluster glass and a ferromagnetic (FM) phase, which can thus be characterized as a glassy
ferromagnetic phase. EPR measurement performed from RT down to 4 K conform with the
magnetization measurements.Signals down to 70 K are symmetric owing to the presence of PM
92
phase. Below this temperature signals are asymmetric. Detailed analyses of the temperature
dependences of the EPR signal intensity, linewidth and ‗g‘ parameter have been carried out.
Interestingly, we find that the linewidth behaviour can also be understood in terms of the
Berezinski-Kosterlitz-Thouless Scenario. The manuscript summarizing these results will shortly
be submitted for publication.
In collaboration with Dr. Vinayak Kamble‘s group at IISER, Thiruvananthapuram,magnetic
behavior of chromium doped SnO2 Dilute Magnetic Semiconductor (DMS) nanoparticles is studied
through structural, spectroscopic, and magnetic techniques. A non-equilibrium solution
combustion method is adopted to synthesize 0–5 at. % Cr doped SnO2 nanoparticles. The detailed
spectroscopic studies on the system using micro-Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron
spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy along with the structural analysis
confirm the presence of Cr in 3+ oxidation state, which substitutes at Sn4+
site in SnO6 octahedra
of the rutile structure. This doping is found to enhance the defects in the system, i.e., oxygen
vacancies. All the synthesized SnO2 nanoparticles (with or without dopants) are found to exhibit
Room Temperature Ferromagnetism (RTFM). This occurrence of RTFM is attributed to the
magnetic exchange interaction through F-centers of oxygen vacancies as well as dopant magnetic
impurities and explained through the Bound Magnetic Polaron (BMP) model of DMS systems.
Nonetheless, as the doping of Cr is further increased beyond 2%, the solubility limit is achieved.
This antiferromagnetic exchange interaction from interstitial Cr dopants dominates over the BMP
mechanism and, hence, leads to a drastic decrease in the net magnetic moment2.
2. Other Academic and related activities:
Delivered a lecture titled ―Science: A uniquely exciting Adventure: (A light hearted look at a fairly
serious matter)‖ at Vivekananda College Bangalore on the occasion of Science Day Celebrations.
Reviewed manuscripts for Journal of Applied Physics and Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic
Materials.
As an Associate Editor of ‗RESONANCE: Journal of Science Education‘ participated in the review
and processing for publication of physics related articles.
Organized ―Prof. R. Srinivasan Memorial Lecture‖ delivered by Prof. Gunnar Jeschke of ETH
Zurich at the Department of Physics, IISc Bangalore.
Chaired a session at the Asia-Pacific NMR Congress.
Participated in various selection/promotion/review Committees at Central University of Kerala,
Kasargod, Sastra University, Tanjavur, M. Visvesvaraiah Institute of Technology, Goa University,
DST-INSA INSPIRE programme, Delhi.
Visited and interacted with Professor Stephen Stoll of Department of Physical Chemistry and
Professor Kannan Krishnan of Department of Materials Engineering of University of Washington,
Seattle.
Visited the LIGO (Laser Interferometry Gravitational Wave Observatory) experimental station at
Hanford, Washington.
Publication(s):
i. Zinc doping effects on the magnetic properties of Nd0.65Ca0.35Mn0.9Zn0. 1O3
nanomanganite.Daly Paul, K.N. Anuradha and S.V. Bhat, Int. J. Nanotechnol., 14, (2017) 885-
892
93
ii. On exceeding the solubility limit of Cr+3
dopants in SnO2 nanoparticles based dilute
magnetic semiconductors.Kusuma URS, S.V. Bhat, and Vinayak Kamble, Journal of Applied
Physics,123, (2018) 161518, 1-8 (published online: 20 October 2017)
D. Ph.D. awarded: Ms Lora Rita Goveas, a joint student of Prof. S. V. Bhatt and Prof. K. N.
Anuradha of Ambedkar Institute of Technology, Bangalore, successfully defended her PhD thesis
titled “Magnetic and Electron Magnetic Resonance Studies of Bulk and Nanoparticles of
Samarium Based Manganites Sm1-xCaxMnO3” and was awarded the PhD degree of
Visveswaraiah Institute of Technology, Belagaum.
32. Dr. Hemanta K. Majumder,
Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, kolkata
Title of the Proposed Work: DNA Topoisomerases Targeted Therapeutics
During the reporting period, the project is focused on the development of molecules targeted to
type IB and type II DNA topoisomerases of Leishmania donovani. Simultaneously drug induced
DNA damages in Leishmania and their repair processes have also been studied.
A number of synthetic and natural plant derived compounds have been identified and
characterized as topoisomerase IB and topoisomerase II inhibitors. The compounds which inhibit
Leishmania topoisomerase 1B are (i) Voacamine, an indole alkaloid isolated from plant
Tabernaemontana coronaria and (ii) Copper salisylaldoxamine, a transition metal complex. The
other compounds are (iii) Calothrixins B and their deoxygenated analogues which are inhibitors
of human DNA topoisomerase II and (iv) an isobenzofuranone compound JVPH3, an inhibitor
of L. donovani topoisomerase
Towards understanding the repair processes of the damages induced by DNA topoisomerases
targeted antileishmanials, we have found that among many factors, the Meiotic
Recombination Protein 11 (Mre11) gets over expressed in the parasite when it was subjected to
camptothecin treatment. However, reports suggesting direst evidence of Mre 11 to resolve Topo l
cleavage complex (Topo l cc) in vivo still remain unclear. For that purpose, we have cloned and
sequenced Mre 11 gene (LdMRE11) from L. donovani. Mre 11 knock out parasites were also
generated. Experiments are underway to understand the repair pathway in detail. So far our study
provides the first mechanistic insight in to the functioning of Mre 11 in Leishmania in response to
topoisomerase 1B poisoning and probably Mre 11 has a role in drug resistance.
Publication(s):
i. Voacamine alters Leishmania ultrastructure and kills parasite by poisoning unusual bisubunit topoisomerase 1B. Chowdhury SR, Kumar A, Godinho JLP, De Macedo Silva ST, Zuma AA, Saha S, Kumari N, Rodrigues JCF, Sundar S, Dujardin JC, Roy S, De Souza W, Mukhopadhyay S, Majumder HK*. Biochemical Pharmacology (2017)138:19-30.doi:10.1016/j.bcp.2017.05.002[I.F.5.091] (*corresponding author)
ii. Copper salisylaldoxime (CuSAL) imparts protective efficacy against visceral leishmaniasis by targeting Leishmania donovani topoisomerase IB. Singh MK, Bhaumik SK, Karmakar S, Paul J, Sawoo S, Majumder HK, Roy A. Experimental Parasitology (2017) 175: 8-20. doi: 10.1016/j.exppara.2017.02.010. [I. F. 1.73]
iii. Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Calothrixins B and their Deoxygenated Analogues. Muthu Ramalingam B, Dhatchana Moorthy N, Chowdhury SR, Mageshwaran T, Vellaichamy E, Saha S, Ganesan K, Rajesh BN, Iqbal S, Majumder HK, Gunasekaran K, Siva R, Mohanakrishnan AK. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry (2018) 61(3): 1285-1315. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b01797. [I. F. 6.2591
94
Book Edited:
Editor of the book entitled Molecular Biology of Kinetoplastid Parasites, published by Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK (2017). ISBN: 978-1-910190-71-5
Book Chapter:
DNA Topoisomerases of Kinetoplastid Parasites: Brief Overview and Recent Perspectives. Saha S, Chowdhury SR, Majumder HK*. In: Molecular Biology of Kinetoplastid Parasites. Ed. By H. K. Majumder, Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK (2018). doi: https://doi.org/10.21775/9781910190715.10 (*corresponding author)
Lectures:
1. Delivered Prof. K. L. Mukherjee Memorial Foundation Day Lecture entitled "Drug Development Research against Kala-azar" at Central Calcutta Society for Advancement of Human Development & Research, on July 21, 2017.
2. Delivered a lecture entitled "Biological Chemistry & Biotechnology: Epoch Making Discoveries" organized by INSA Local Chapter, Kolkata at Hare School, Kolkata, on August 18, 2017.
3. Delivered Keynote Speech entitled "Development of anti-leishmanial therapeutics targeted to DNA topoisomerases of the parasite" in 1
51 International Conference on Biotechnology &Biological Sciences at
University of Engineering & Management, Kolkata, on August 25, 2017.
4. Delivered a lecture entitled "Eukaryotic DNA topoisomerases: Complexity in Leishmania" in Refresher Course at Department of Biotechnology and Dr. B. C Guha Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Calcutta, on November 7, 2017.
e.Delivered a lecture ent it led "DNA topoisomerases targeted drug development in Leishmania" in Refresher Course at Department of Biotechnology and Dr. B. C Guha Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Calcutta, on November 10, 2017.
Honours & Accolades:
1. Chancellor's Nominee for the Court of Kalyani University
2. Member, Board of Studies, Assam University, Silchar
3. Member of the Board of Studies in Department of Microbiology, Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata
4. Honorary Director, The Advanced Research Centre, Department of Microbiology, Lady Brabourne
College, Kolkata
5. Adjunct Professor, Department of Biophysics, Molecular Biology & Bioinformatics, University
of Calcutta
Ph.D.Thesis examined:
Acted as a PhD Thesis Examiner of Birla Institute of Science & Technology, Rajasthan, India.
Journal Referee:
1. Acted as Editorial Board Member for the journal 'Scientific Reports', published by Nature Publishing
Group
2. Acted as Reviewer for the journal 'Current Medicinal Chemistry'
3. Acted as Reviewer for the journal 'Antimicrobial Agents & Chemotherapy'
95
Meetings:
1. Chaired a session in Guha Research Conference (2017) at Kumarakom, Cochi, Kerala
(December 2-6, 2017)
2. Attended 87th Annual General Meeting of NASI at Pune University, Pune (December 8-10, 2017)
3. Chaired a session on 'International Seminar on Life Science Research in Health & Diseases'
at The Advanced Research Centre, Department of Microbiology, Lady Brabourne College,
Kolkata, on February 26, 2018.
33. Prof. Kasturi Datta,
JNU, New Delhi
Title: “Functional Role of Cell Surface Hyaluronan Binding Protein 1 (HABP1): Implication
in Cancer Metastasis”.
Our laboratory is engaged towards the functional characterization of human gene, Hyaluronan-
binding protein 1 (HABP1) which we identified and to study its probable use for human benefit.
Sequence search confirmed its identity by us with the receptor of globular head of the complement
protein gC1q and with p32, the protein co-purified with alternate spicing factor, SF2. This is
represented in the human genome organization as synonym of gC1qR/SF2-p32/HABP1 and is
confirmed as a multifunctional protein. The purified recombinant HABP1 binds with gC1q at 24 a.a.
N-terminal residue and with HA at 119
KLVRKVAGEK128
HA-binding motif, confirming its multi-
ligand activity. Though p32/gC1qR/HABP1 is co-purified with alternate splicing factor SF2, its role
in splicing was not detected earlier. One of its ligand C1q, the complement protein is known to
regulate immunological and inflammation response in pathological conditions and similarly
Hyaluronan (HA) also has multi-factorial regulation on cell differentiation, migration, ROS
scavenging activity, apoptosis, the processes related to cancer progression.
Our recent publications confirm the adherent nature of HABP1 and its function in tumor
progression and cancer metastasis. We reported that HABP1 is differentially localized and
expressed in skin papilloma progression and is hyper-phosphorylated form in cancerous cells.
Treatment with HABP1 in melanoma cells induces cell migration and tumor growth by NFkβ
dependent MMP-2 activation through integrin, αvβ3 interaction which can be blocked with anti-
HABP1 antibody, integrin binding peptides as well as with curcumin. Upon overexpression in
HepG2 cells HABP1 augments tumor potency by increased HA levels and HA cable formation and
cyclinD1 dependent cellular proliferation. The increased tumor potency was further confirmed using
3D culture and correlated with inhibition of autophagic vacuole formation, low serum requirement,
increased cell adhesion, downregulated expression of tumor suppressor, PTEN. Hyaluronan
synthase (HAS) inhibitor and anticarcinogenic drug, 4MU, reverts back these changes with
decreased tumor potency and elevated expression of tumor suppressor protein, PTEN, Beclin1 and
increased autophagic vacuole formation, suggesting its role in tumor progression.
In the meantime, a series of clinical reports appeared in various internationally acclaimed journals
(few of them were reviewed by myself) demonstrating the elevated expression of HABP1 in
several cancer tissues including breast, ovarian, endometrial, lung cancer and few others. Our
96
earlier as well the present clinical data imply HABP1 as a biomarker of tumor progression and
metastasis. In the search for functions of HABP1, related to its probable regulatory role in
metabolic alteration in cancer cells, we revisited the earlier report of HABP1/p32/ gC1qR being
co-purified during cloning and purification of splicing factor ASF/SF2, from nuclear extracts of
HeLa cells. Keeping in mind of recent reports of oncogenic splicing factors such as SF2/SRSF1
and hnRNPs being overexpressed in various cancers with constitutively active growth survival
signals and the reported co-purification and correlation with HABP1/p32, we embarked upon
discerning the regulatory role of SRSF1 in hepatocarcinoma cell lines HepG2 and HepG2 cell line
stably overexpressing HABP1 (HepR21). HepR21 generated in our laboratory, which has already
been reported to have higher tumorigenic potential than its parental counterpart, HepG2. The
expression profile of SRSF1 along with another splicing factor associated oncogenic protein,
hnRNPA2B1 was checked in the two cell lines HepG2 and HepR21 and also in the anti-
carcinogenic drug (4-MU) treated HepR21 cells. Highly augmented expression of SRSF1 by ~
1.86 folds and hnRNPA2B1 by ~ 2.66 folds was noted in HepR21 cells which are in concurrence
with the increased tumor potency in these cells as compared to HepG2. While HAS inhibition
through 4-MU treatment in the HepR21 cells led to downregulation of both the proteins. Further,
immuno-fluorescence analysis for SF2 and hnRNPA2B1 in both HepG2 and HepR21 cells also
revealed a prominently elevated expression and co-localization of these proteins in HepR21 cells
as compared to HepG2 cells and a similar downregulation upon 4-MU treatment. Hence, the
increased expression of HABP1 and SRSF1 in HepR21 cells, their co-localization and the nuclear
localization of SRSF1 might have a role in the generation of alternatively spliced variants of
certain genes and increased tumour potency in this cell line. It suggests the immense significance
of HABP1 in cancer progression, being a cancer biomarker and a probable target for therapeutic
intervention (Saha and Datta, Oncotarget, 2018)
Publication(s)
1. Paramita Saha and Kasturi Datta.Multi-functional, multicompartmental hyaluronan-binding
protein 1 (HABP1/p32/gC1qR): implication in cancer progression and metastasis. Oncotarget,
2018, Vol. 9, (No. 12), pp: 10784-10807.
2. Sampa Ghose, Subhrajit Biswas, Kasturi Datta and Rakesh K. Tyagi. Dynamic Hyaluronan
drives liver endothelial cells towards angiogenesis. BMC Cancer, 2018, 18:648.
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Publications of the Academy
98
4. Publications of the Academy
A). Status of Publication of National Academy Science Letters
SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS:
National Academy Science Letters received 2017 Impact Factor (IF) as 0.519 from
Thomson Reuters.
2016 Google h5 Index of the journal is 11, which was 9 in the previous year.
It was found that more than half (2015-2016) of National Academy Sciences Letters were
cited in different journals of the world in 2017 (web of Science).
2017 Scimage Journal Ranking is 0.189 for this journal.
The journal has received 2017 CiteScore as 0.63 as per data of Scopus.
All the manuscripts have been checked for plagiarism by a software ―iThenticate‖, before
further processing.
Around 266 papers were received from twenty five countries viz. Algeria, Bahamas,
Bangladesh, China, Croatia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Koria, Malaysia, Netherlands, Yemen,
South Africa, Tunisia, Turkey, Koria, Pakistan, Serbia, Egypt, France, Nigeria, Poland, Saudi
Arabia, United States, Uzbekistan.
Overall rejection rate was 48% in 2012, 58% in 2013, 81% in 2014, 89% in 2015, 80% in
2016, 75% in 2017 and presently 88% in 2018.
Variation of Impact Factor during last five Years for National Academy Science Letters
99
B). Status of Publication of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India, Section A,
Physical Sciences
SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS:
PNASI, Sec.A received 2017 Impact Factor (IF) as 0.754 from Thomson Reuters.
2016 Google h5 Index of the journal is 9, which was 8 in the previous year.
It was found that more than half (2015-2016) of PNASI, Sec.A were cited in different journals
of the world in 2017 (web of Science).
2017 Scimage Journal Ranking is 0.267 for this journal.
The journal has received 2017 CiteScore as 0.80 as per data of Scopus.
Special Issue on ―Lasers for biomedical and material processing applications‖ will be
published as part III, 2018 of PNASI, Sec.A under guidance of Prof. P.K Gupta & Prof. J.P.
Mittal.
All the manuscripts have been checked for plagiarism by a software ―iThenticate‖, before
further processing.
Around 175 papers were received from thirteen countries viz. China, India, Egypt, Iran,
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Turkey, Congo, Korea, Nigeria, South Africa and United
States.
Overall rejection rate was 48% in 2012, 58% in 2013, 81% in 2014, 89% in 2015, 80% in
2016, 75% in 2017 and presently 76% in 2018.
Variation of Impact Factor during last five Years for Proceedings of the National Academy of
Sciences, India, Section A (Physical Sciences)
100
C). Status of Publication of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences India Section B
Biological Sciences
SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS:
Comprehensive Editorial Board: Editor-in-Chief- Prof. Amit Ghosh, Managing Editor-
Prof. U.C. Srivastava; with 30 Editorial Board Members and another 40 Subject Editors
(including 12 Foreign Experts)
The journalhas received 2017CiteScore as 0.62(233 citations in 2017 divided by 376
publications during 2014-16) from Scopus;the previous yearCiteScore was 0.52.
2017 Google Journal H5 Index-not declared; 2016 Google Journal H5 Index = 15, which
was 12 in the preceding year.
2017Scimago Journal Ranking=0.237, which was 0.228 in the previous year.
2017 SNIP=0.457 which was 0.338 in the previous year
Thomson Reuters is still showing its Impact factor as 0.396 (of 2013).
There are 417 total citations for all 985(published+Online) articles as per
citations.springer.com.
In 2018, manuscripts have been received fromnineteen (19) countries (Alzeria, Bangladesh,
Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Iran,Kenya, Korea, Morocco, Oman, Pakistan,Portugal,
Qatar,Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Tunisia, and Turkey)
Citation of articles published in the journal has significantly increased; however, self-citation
has remarkably decreased and stabilized in last 3-years as per Scimago.
5. Memorial Lecture Awards
The following Awards were given -
a) Prof. Meghnad Saha Memorial Lecture Award (2017)-
Prof. Anurag Sharma, IIT Delhi, New Delhi
b) Prof. N.R. Dhar Memorial Lecture Award (2017)-
Dr. Madhu Dikshit, Director, CSIR-CDRI, Lucknow
c) Prof. A.C. Banerji Memorial Lecture Award (2017)-
Prof. Bimla Buti, Director Centre for Science & Society, Delhi
d) Dr. B.P. Pal Memorial Lecture Award (2017)-
Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE & DG, ICAR New Delhi
e) Dr. P. Sheel Memorial (Young Women Scientist) Lecture Award (2017)-
Dr. Meenu Kapoor, Prof. Biotechnology, GG Indraprastha University, New Delhi
f) Prof. B.K. Bachhawat Memorial Lecture Award (2017)-
Dr. Shekhar Mande, Director, NCCS Pune
g) Prof. U.S Srivastava Memorial Lecture Award (2017)-
Prof. Kasturi Datta, JNU, New Delhi
h) Lecture Award in the field of Biodiversity (2017)-
Dr. Anil K. Tripathi, Director, CIMAP Lucknow
i) Prof. Archana Sharma Memorial Lecture Award (2017)-
Prof. Jaya S. Tyagi, AIIMS, New Delhi
j) Prof. V P Sharma Memorial Lecture Award (2017)-
Dr. V P Kamboj, Chairman. BCIL New Delhi
101
k) NASI-Buti Foundation Lecture Award (2017)
Dr. Pratibha Jolly, Principal Miranda House Delhi
and
Prof. MGK Menon Lecture Award-2017 -
Dr. Ajay Kumar Parida, Director, ILS Bhubaneshwar
Prof. Manju Sharma, Former Secretary to the Govt. of India, New Delhi
6. NASI-Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee Fellowships (2018)
The following were selected as Senior Scientists –
Biological Sciences:
a) Prof. Sumita Jha, Centre of Advanced Study, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata
b) Prof. M. Vijayan, INSA Albert Einstein Professor, Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute
of Science, Bangalore.
Physical Sciences:
c) Prof. B.L.S. Prakasa Rao, Chair Professor, C R Rao Advanced Institute of Mathematics Statistics
and Computer Science, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad.
d) Prof. Sanjeev Dhurandhar, Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics Pune University, Pune.
7. Recognitions/Awards
(A) NASI-Reliance Industries Platinum Jubilee Awards (2017) were given to-
Biological Sciences:
a) Dr. Debasis Chattopadhyay, Scientist V, National Institute of Plant Genome Research,
Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi – 110 067.
b) Dr. Inshad Ali Khan, Principal Scientist, Clinical Microbiology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute
of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu – 180 001.
Physical Sciences:
a) Dr. Debendra Kumar Mohapatra, Principal Scientist, Natural Products Chemistry Division, CSIR-
Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad
b) Prof. Anil Kumar, Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology
Bombay, Powai, Mumbai – 400 076.
102
(B) NASI-Young Scientist Platinum Jubilee Awards (2017) were given to-
Physical Sciences:
1. Dr. Manan Suri, Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute
of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi – 110 016.
2. Dr. Mohit Tyagi, Scientific Officer (F), Crystal Technology Section, Technical Physics
Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai – 400 085
3. Dr. C.T. Dhanya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of
Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi – 110 016
4. Dr. Chandra Shekhar Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering,
Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangaredy Mandal -502 285
Chemical Sciences:
1. Dr. Anshu Pandey, Assistant Professor, Solid State and Structural Chemistry Unit, Indian
Institute of Science, Bengaluru – 560 012.
2. Dr. Md. Mahuiddin Baidya, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute
of Technology Madras, Chennai – 600 036.
3. Dr. Prabhat Kumar Singh, Scientific Officer E, Radiation & Photochemistry Division
Chemistry Group, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai – 400 085
4. Dr. R.S. Swathi, Assistant Professor, School of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science
Education and Research (IISER), Computer Science Building, CET Campus,
Thiruvananthapuram – 695 016
Biological Sciences:
1. Dr. Pallavi Singh, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Plant Sciences,
University of Cambridge, Down Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EA , England
2. Dr. Amarjeet Singh, Staff Scientist, Lab 205, National Institute of Plant Genome Research,
Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi – 110 067
3. Dr. Sudip Saha, Post-Doctoral Fellow, Division of Plant Biology, Bose Institute, P 1/12, CIT
Road, Scheme –VII, Kolkata – 700 054
4. Dr. Devanjan Sinha, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science,
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi – 221 005
5. Mr. Mainak Bose, Research Scholar, CSIR-NET (SPMF), CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical
Biology, Kolkata – 700 008
6. Dr. Vijay Soni, Senior Research Fellow, Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute
of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Road, New Delhi – 110 067
7. Dr. Durba Pal, Assistant Professor, Center for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of
Technology Ropar, Nangal Road, Rupnagar – 140 001
8. Dr. Somyajit Kumar, Post Doctoral Fellow, Prof. Jiri Lukas Laboratory, The Novo Nordisk
Foundation Centre for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health and
Medical Sciences, Blegdamsvej 3B, building 6.1, DK 2200 Copenhagen N
9. Dr. Bhanu Prakash, Assistant Professor, Department of Botany, Institute of Science Banarus
Hindu University, Varanasi – 221 005
103
(C) NASI-SCOPUS Young Scientist Awards –2017
Agriculture
Dr. Sachin Kumar, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati
Biological Sciences
Dr. Amit Singh, Indian Institute of Science, Banglore
Chemistry
Dr. Rajnish Kumar, National Chemical Laboratory, Pune
Earth, Oceanographic & Environmental Science
Dr. Vinayak Sinha, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali
Engineering
Dr. Manav Bhatnagar, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi
Mathematics
Dr. Jaydeb Sarkar, Indian Statistical Institute, Bangalore
Medicine
Dr. Biman B. Mandal, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati
Physics
Dr. Sanjib Kumar Agarwalla, Institute of Physics, Bhubaneswar
Social Sciences
Dr. Vishal Gupta, Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad
(D) i) NASI-SWARNA JAYANTI PURASKARS FOR BEST PAPER (Oral/Poster 2017),
were given to -
Ms. Aparna Banerjee, UGC-CAS, Department of Botany, The University of
Burdwan, Burdwan
Ms. Shrstha Sinha, School of Studies in Zoology and Neuroscience, Jiwaji
University, Gwalior
Mr. Durgesh Kumar Jaiswal, Institute of Environment and Sustainable
Development, BHU, Varanasi
Ms. Amruta Shelar, Department of Biotechnology, SP Pune University, Pune
Ms. Snehasis Dutta, Chemical Engineering Division, BARC, Mumbai
Mr. Nandkishor B. Shirsath, School of Chemical Sciences, North Maharashtra
University, Jalgaon
Mr. Anurag Kanase, Department of Physics, SP Pune University, Pune
Ms. Roshni V, Department of Chemistry, SP Pune University, Pune
104
ii) NASI-Springer Award (Oral/Poster 2017), were given to -
Ms. Shivi Tyagi, Department of Botany, Panjab University, Chandigarh.
Mr. Bishwarup Sarkar, Department of Microbiology, Modern College of Arts,
Science and Commerce, Pune.
Ms. Rohi Jan, Department of Chemistry, SP Pune University, Pune.
Mr. Tejas Chimbalkar, Department of Physics, Shikshn Prasarak Mandal‘s
Parshurambhau College, Pune.
Mr. Samadhan Waghmode, Department of Microbiology, Elphinstone College,
Fort, Mumbai.
Ms. Neha Gupta, School of Studies in Biotechnology, Jiwaji University,
Gwalior.
Ms. Poornima Dhawaskar, Department of Earth Sciences, Goa University, Goa.
Ms. Saumya Khare, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Science, BHU,
Varanasi.
8. Fellowship and Membership
The National Academy of Sciences, India 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 1758 Fellows including 17 Honorary Fellows and 97 Foreign Fellows.
These include scientists from all disciplines of Science and Technology from India and abroad. These
numbers also include the Fellows and Foreign Fellows elected/admitted during the year 2017
(Annexure I). At present the Academy has 1755 Members on its roll of which 38 were admitted
during the year 2017 (Annexure II).
9. Obituary
The Academy condoled the sad demise of the following Honorary Fellows/Fellows/Foreign Fellows
1. Prof. Yash Pal,
2. Prof. A. K. Sharma
3. Dr. B. N. Dhawan
4. Prof. U. R. Rao
5. Dr. Narendra P. Gupta
6. Prof. P. K. Kaw
7. Prof. A. B. Prasad
8. Dr. Durga P.Roy
9. Prof. V.C. Saksena
10. Prof. Y.N. Singh
105
11. Prof. B. K. Srivastava
12. Prof. Vachaspati
13. Dr. L.V. Venkataraman
14. Dr. P. S. Ahuja
15. Dr. B. B. Chatto
10. COUNCIL
Council 2017
President
1. Prof. Anil Kakodkar, D.Sc.(h.c.), FNASc, FASc, FNAE, FIE, Formerly Chairman, AEC &
Secretary, DAE, GOI; DAE Homi Bhabha Chair Professor & Member AEC, BARC, Trombay, Mumbai –
400085
Past Presidents
2. Prof. Akhilesh K. Tyagi, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FNAAS, FTWAS, Department of Plant
Molecular Biology, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi – 110021
3. Prof. Asis Datta, Ph.D., D.Sc., FNASc, FASc, FNA, FTWAS, NASI-Platinum Jubilee Chair
Distinguished Professor; Formerly Vice-Chancellor, JNU & Founder Director, National Institute of Plant
Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi – 110067.
Vice-Presidents
4. Prof. Rohini Madhusudan Godbole, Ph.D.(SUNY), D.Lit., FNASc, FASc, FNA, FTWAS,
Professor, Centre for High Energy Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012
5. Prof. Pramod Tandon, PhD, FNASc, FBS, Formerly Vice-Chancellor, NEHU, Shillong; Chief
Executive Officer, Biotech Park, Sector G, Kursi Road, Jankipuram, Lucknow – 226021
Treasurer
6. Prof. Balakrishnan Ramakrishnan, Ph.D., FNASc, Professor-H, Harish Chandra Research
Institute, Chhatnag Road, Jhunsi, Allahabad – 211019
Foreign Secretary
7. Prof. Pramod Kumar Garg, MBBS, MD, DM, FNASc, FAMS, Professor, Department of
Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi – 110029
General Secretaries
8. Prof. (Mrs.) Veena Tandon, PhD, FNASc, FZSI, FHSI, Formerly Professor, Department of
Zoology, NEHU, Shillong; NASI-Senior Scientist, Biotech Park, Sector G, Kursi Road, Jankipuram,
Lucknow – 226021
9. Prof. Umesh Chandra Srivastava, D.Phil., Doctor of Neurophysiology (Pisa), FNASc, FIAN,
Emeritus Professor, Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Allahabad - 211002
Members
10. Prof. Madhoolika Agrawal, Ph.D., FNASc, FNAAS, Professor, Department of Botany, Banaras
Hindu University, Varanasi - 221005
11. Prof. Jayesh Ramesh Bellare, Ph.D., FNASc, Institute Chair Professor, Chemical Engineering,
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai- 400076
12. Prof. K.V.R. Chary, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FAPASc, Senior Professor (I), JC Bose Fellow (DST,
GOI), Department of Chemical Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Homi Bhabha Road,
Colaba, Mumbai – 400005
106
13. Prof. Alok Dhawan, PhD, FNASc, FST, FAEB, FINS, FAScAW, Director, CSIR-Indian Institute of
Toxicology Research, Post Box No. 80, M.G. Marg, Lucknow - 226001
14. Dr. Sugeerappa Laxmanappa Hoti, Ph.D., FNASc, FISP, Scientist G & Director-in-Charge,
Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR), Nehru Nagar(Opp.KLE Hospital), Belagavi – 590010
15. Dr. Hemanta Kumar Majumder, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FAScT(WB), DAE-Raja Ramanna
Fellow, Scientist G, Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4 Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Kolkata - 700032
16. Prof. Jayant Moreshwar Modak, Ph.D., FNASc, FNAE, Professor, Department of Chemical
Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore – 560012
17. Dr. Sankar Kumar Pal, PhD (Cal.& Lond.), DIC, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FNAE, FIEEE, FTWAS,
FIAPR, FIFSA, Raja Ramanna Fellow, Distinguished Scientist & Former Director, Indian Statistical
Institute, 203, B.T. Road, Kolkata -700108
18. Prof. A.S. Raghavendra, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FNAAS, FTWAS, Professor, Department of
Plant Sciences, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad - 500046
19. Dr. Chandrima Shaha, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, Professor of Eminence and Former Director,
National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi – 110067
20. Dr. Amit Prakash Sharma, PhD (Northwestern, USA), FNASc, FASc, FNA, FTWAS, Group
Leader & Staff Scientist, Structural & Computational Biology Group, International Centre for Genetic
Engineering & Biotechnology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi – 110067
21. Prof. L.S. Shashidhara, Ph.D. (Cambridge,UK), FNASc, FASc, FNA, Professor & Coordinator
(Biology), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, 900, NCL Innovation Park, Dr. Homi
Bhabha Road, Pune – 411008
22. Prof. Sampat Kumar Tandon, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FGS, FTWAS, DN Wadia Chair
Professor, Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur – 208016
23. Prof. Anil Kumar Tyagi, Ph.D., FNASc, FASc, FNA, Vice-Chancellor, GGS Indraprastha
University, Sector 16C, Dwarka, New Delhi - 110078
& Special Invitees (including the Nominee of the Secretary, DST, Government of India, New
Delhi)
Council 2018
President
1. Prof. Anil Kakodkar, DSc(hc), FNASc, FASc, FNAE, FIE, Formerly Chairman, AEC &
Secretary, DAE, GOI; DAE Homi Bhabha Chair Professor & Member AEC, BARC, Trombay,
Mumbai – 400085
Past Presidents
2. Prof. Akhilesh K. Tyagi, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FNAAS, FTWAS, Formerly Director,
NIPGR; Department of Plant Molecular Biology, University of Delhi South Campus, New
Delhi - 110021
3. Prof. Asis Datta, PhD, DSc, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FTWAS, Formerly Vice-Chancellor, JNU &
Founder Director, National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New
Delhi – 110067.
Vice-Presidents
4. Prof. Rohini Madhusudan Godbole, PhD(SUNY), DLitt, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FTWAS,
Professor, Centre for High Energy Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012
5. Prof. Pramod Tandon, PhD, FNASc, FBS, Formerly Vice-Chancellor, NEHU, Shillong; Chief
Executive Officer, Biotech Park, Sector G, Kursi Road, Jankipuram, Lucknow – 226021
107
Treasurer
6. Prof. Balakrishnan Ramakrishnan, PhD, FNASc, Professor-H, Harish Chandra Research
Institute, Chhatnag Road, Jhusi, Allahabad – 211019
Foreign Secretary
7. Prof. Pramod Kumar Garg, MBBS, MD, DM, FNASc, FAMS, Professor, Department of
Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi - 110029
General Secretaries
8. Prof. Paramjit Khurana, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FNAAS, FTWAS, JC Bose National
Fellow, Professor, Department of Plant Molecular Biology, University of Delhi South Campus,
Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi - 110021
9. Prof. Satya Deo, PhD (Arkansas, USA), FNASc, Senior Scientist, Harish-Chandra Research
Institute, Chhatnag Road, Jhusi, Allahabad - 211019
Members
10. Prof. Madhoolika Agrawal, PhD, FNASc, FNAAS, Professor, Department of Botany, Banaras
Hindu University, Varanasi – 221005
11. Prof. Jayesh Ramesh Bellare, PhD, FNASc, FNAE, Institute Chair Professor, Department of
Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai- 400076
12. Prof. Balram Bhargava, MBBS, MD, DM, FNASc, FACC, FAHA, FAMS, Professor,
Cardiothoracic Sciences Centre, Executive Director, Stanford India Biodesign Centre,
Department of Cardiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi -
110029
13. Dr. Subhra Chakraborty, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNAAS, Staff Scientist VII (Professor),
National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi - 110067
14. Dr. Sugeerappa Laxmanappa Hoti, PhD, FNASc, FISP, Scientist G & Director-in-Charge,
Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR), Nehru Nagar (Opp.KLE Hospital), Belagavi–
590010
15. Dr. Gyan Chandra Mishra, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, Senior Scientist, National Centre for
Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, NCCS Complex, Pune-411007
16. Prof. Jayant Moreshwar Modak, PhD, FNASc, FNAE, Professor, Department of Chemical
Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore – 560012
17. Dr. Sankar Kumar Pal, PhD (Cal.& Lond.), DIC, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FNAE, FIEEE,
FTWAS, FIAPR, FIFSA, Raja Ramanna Fellow, Distinguished Scientist and Former Director,
Indian Statistical Institute, 203, B.T. Road, Kolkata -700108
18. Prof. Anunay Samanta, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, Professor, School of Chemistry,
University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad - 500046
19. Prof. L.S. Shashidhara, PhD (Cambridge,UK), FNASc, FASc, FNA, Professor & Coordinator
(Biology), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, 900, NCL Innovation Park, Dr.
Homi Bhabha Road, Pune – 411008
20. Dr. Dinesh Kumar Srivastava, PhD, FNASc, FNA, Raja Ramanna Fellow, Former Director &
Distinguished Scientist, Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre, 1/AF, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata –
700064
21. Prof. Sampat Kumar Tandon, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, FGS, FTWAS, Visiting Professor,
IISER Bhopal, Bhopal Bypass Road, Bhauri, Bhopal – 462066
108
Scientific Publications
Science
Communication
Activities
Fellowship/ Membership
NASI-Chairs
&
Senior Scientists
Scientific
Exhibits &
Documentation
Scientific Projects/ Research
Awards & Recognition
Library & Information
Finance & Accounts
Organisational
Activities/
Chapters
Collaborations &
Meetings
Editorial Boards
of the
Journals
22. Dr. Anil Kumar Tripathi, PhD, FNASc, FNA, FNAAS, FRBS, FAMI, Director, CSIR-
Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Near Kukrail Picnic Spot, PO CIMAP,
Lucknow – 226015
23. Prof. Anil Kumar Tyagi, PhD, FNASc, FASc, FNA, Vice-Chancellor, GGS Indraprastha
University, Sector 16C, Dwarka, New Delhi – 110078
11. Meetings
Four Council Meetings, two Meetings of the Fellows and one Annual General Body Meeting were
held during the period of the report. Several other meetings as of Fellowship Scrutiny Committee,
Membership Scrutiny Committee, Editorial Board Meetings, Standing Committees of Finance, and
Purchase, Lecture Award Scrutiny Committees, Science Teacher Award Scrutiny Committee, Library
Committee and other Sub committees also met during the year. The Academy also observed
Vigilance Week and Hindi Diwas/Pakhwara during the period of report.
12. Organizational Chart
To manage the following activites of the Academy
President
Vice-Presidents
Treasurer General Secretaries Foreign Secretary
Executive Secretary
Deputy Executive Secretary
Assistant Executive
Secretaries
Section Officers
Office Assistants
Organisational Activities
Despatch/
Correspondance & others
Committees
constituted by
the Council
Council
109
13. Finance
Standing Finance Committee for the 2017
1. Prof. Anil Kakodkar, President - Chairperson
2. Prof. Rohini Madhusudan Godbole – Vice-President
3. Prof. Pramod Tandon – Vice-President
4. Joint Secretary & Financial Advisor, DST, New Delhi or his/her nominee
5. Prof. Balakrishnan Ramakrishnan– Treasurer
6. Prof. Satya Deo, HRI, Allahabad
7. Prof. U.C. Srivastava - General Secretary (HQ)
8. Prof. Veena Tandon - General Secretary (outstation)
Standing Finance Committee for the 2018
1. Prof. Anil Kakodkar, President - Chairperson
2. Prof. Rohini Madhusudan Godbole – Vice-President
3. Prof. Pramod Tandon – Vice-President
4. Joint Secretary & Financial Advisor, DST, New Delhi or his/her nominee
5. Prof. Balakrishnan Ramakrishnan– Treasurer
6. Prof. U.C. Srivastava- UoA, Allahabad (Member)
7. Prof. Satya Deo, HRI, Allahabad
8. Prof. Paramjit Khurana, General Secretary (Outstation)
Financial Position
The financial position of the Academy for the year ended on March 31, 2018 is given in Annexure
III.
The Academy records its grateful thanks to the following departments of the Government of India for
financial support.
(a) Department of Science & Technology, New Delhi.
(b) Department of Biotechnology, New Delhi.
(c) Department of Atomic Energy, New Delhi.
(d) Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi
(e) Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi
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Activities of the Local Chapters of the Academy 2017-18
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14. Chapters of the Academy
A Brief Report on the
Activities of the Local Chapters of the Academy organized during 2017-18.
Bangalore
The following activities were organized by the Chapter:
Lectures on Role of Spectroscopy The NASI- Bangalore Chapter organized a series of lectures for the students of plus-two level
and also for undergraduate and post graduate students of various streams of Science including
Biotechnology. The presentations mainly focused on the role of Spectroscopy across various
science disciplines. Around 200 students were motivated by the insightful lectures of the eminent
scientists Prof. K. V. Ramanathan, Prof. N. Suryaprakash and Prof. H. S. Areya.
Prof. Ramanathan delivering his lecture
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Prof. Ramanathan delivered a lecture on ‗Anu (atom) to Anthariksha - Science at different
scales‘ - an overview of topics from nano to astronomy. The lecture was delivered for school
children on July 13, 2017 at Poorna Prajna Science Education Centre, Vyalikaval,
Bangalore.
A lecture was delivered by Prof. Suryaprakash on March 16, 2018 at KLE College,
Bangalore. Prof. Atreya delivered a lecture on Biomaterials and their applications on
April, 2017 at BMS College, Bangalore. He also gave a lecture on Application of NMR
Spectroscopy to Biomolecules at M. S. Ramaiah College of Engineering, Bangalor.
Prof. Suryaprakash Delivering his Lecture
Chennai
The Chapter organized the following activities-
The Chapter organized a two-day Science Communication Program for plus two level students
on July 17-18, 2017. About 200 students attended the programme.
Dr. Kavita Sutar of Chennai Mathematical Institute (CMI) elaborated on the concepts of
Origami and adopting it to Geometry (July 17, 2017).
Dr. Ajith Kumar of Inter-Varsity Centre, New Delhi demonstrated Science experiments
using Exp EYES; four kits were handed over to NASI for conducting a similar program
elsewhere (July 17, 2017).
Dr. Prajakta Nimbhorkar (CMI) elaborated on Popular Matchings (July 18, 2017).
Dr. Rajeeva Karandikar (CMI) spoke on Introduction to Probability Theory (July 18,
2017).
Dr. P. Vanchinathan of V.I.T., Chennai spoke on Rational Curves and Pythagorean Triples
(July 18, 2017).
The students were explained the phenomenon of the total lunar eclipse and encouraged to
observe its occurrence by Prof. Kamal Lodaya of Institute of Mathematical Sciences. Around
100 students and more than 20 teachers could watch and experience the astronomical
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phenomenon via two telescopes put up for 3 hours from 5 p.m. onwards at Good earth School on
January 31, 2018.
On March 30, 2018 Telescope viewing was done at V.I.T. (Chennai) to popularize astronomy.
Delhi
The following activities were organized by the Chapter:
1. Seminar on „Journey of Science and Technology in India: A Historical Perspective‟
The NASI-Delhi Chapter organized a seminar on Journey of Science and Technology in India: a
Historical Perspective in joint collaboration with the Calcutta Presidency College Alumni
Association (CPCAA), Delhi, celebrating its bicentenary year. The event held on September 2, 2017
at NIPGR, Delhi was dedicated to Prof. Meghnad Saha, the Founder President of NASI, who also
happened to be one of the eminent alumni of the Presidency College. The program attended by over
300 people including many students and teachers from nearby colleges commenced with the opening
remarks by Mr. Hiranmay Karlekar, followed by the lectures of eminent dignitaries. Prof. (Mrs.)
Manju Sharma shared her views on ‗NASI-It‟s past, present and way forward, keeping in view
the National Missions‟. She gave a detailed portrayal of the history of the Academy and its mandate,
as well as its mission in the national context. Prof. Ajoy Ghatak spoke on „Evolution of Science in
India‘. This was followed by the keynote address by Prof. Anil Kakodkar on ‗Leveraging science
for National Development: Experience in Atomic Energy Program‘. Prof. P. N. Tandon shared his
views on ‗Dawn of Higher Education in India‘. Prof. Kankan Bhattacharyya spoke on ‗Presidency
College & Birth of Modern Science‘. Prof. Sabyasachi Bhattacharya elucidated on ‗Early Science
at Presidency College, Calcutta: an accident or a great beginning?‘ Prof. Akhilesh Tyagi shared his
views on ‗Milestones from Plant Science to Agricultural Biotechnology in India‘. Prof. Kamal Datta
delivered the concluding remarks. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Subhra Chakraborty.
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f)
(g) (h) (i) (j) (k) (l)
Glimpses of the Seminar on Journey of Science and Technology in India held at NIPGR, New Delhi on September 2, 2017: (a)
Dr. Niraj Kumar compering the program (b) View of audience; (c) Mr. Hiranmay Karlekar; (d) Dr. Manju Sharma, Dr. Anil
Kakodkar, Dr. Ajoy Ghatak and Dr. Niranjan Chakraborty during the inaugural function; (e) Dr. Ajoy Ghatak felicitating Dr.
Manju Sharma; (f) Dr. Chandrima Shaha felicitating Dr. P N Tandon; (g) Dr. Kankan Bhatacharyya with Dr Anurag Sharma;
(h) Dr. Anirban Pathak felicitating Dr. Akhilesh Tyagi; (i) Dr. Anil Kakodkar with Dr.D Kanjilal and Dr. Sabyasachi
Bhattacharya; (j) Dr Manju Sharma with Dr. Bimla Buti; (k) Dr. Kamal Datta giving his concluding remarks; (l) Dr. Subhra
Chakraborty coordinating the program.
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2. (A) Workshop on „Quantum Physics: An Insight‟
A two-day workshop on Quantum Physics: An Insight was held on Oct 25-26, 2017 at Kalindi
College, University of Delhi. The workshop jointly organized by the Department of Physics, Kalindi
College & NASI - Delhi Chapter under the convenorship of Dr. Pushpa Bindal witnessed the
presence of about 130 participants (including faculty members and students) from various sectors of
educational institutions such as Amity University (Gurgaon), JIIT (Noida), Sharda University (Noida)
and Delhi University Colleges like Hansraj College, Gargi College, Daulat Ram College, Maitreyi
College, Ramjas College, Shivaji College and SV College. The workshop commenced with the
welcome address by Dr. Anula Maurya, Principal, Kalindi College. Prof. Ajoy Ghatak shared his
views on NASI‘s mandate and detailed on its various activities. The first lecture delivered by him was
focused on ‗Evolution of Quantum Theory‘ while the second was based on ‗Schrodinger Equation &
Basic Concepts in Entanglement‘. Prof. Patrick Das Gupta (Delhi University) elaborated on ‗Three
Faces of Quantum Phase‘. The last lecture of the first day was delivered by Prof. Anurag Sharma
(IIT Delhi) on ‗Eigenvalues and Eigenstates: Beyond Exact Analytical Solutions‘. On the concluding
day, Prof. K. Thyagarajan (Bennett University, Greater Noida) spoke on ‗Quantum Nature of Light
and the Photon‘. This was followed by a talk of Prof. Kamal Dutta (formerly, Professor of Physics
at DU) on ‗The Development of Quantum Formalism: the Early Years‘. The last two lectures on
‗How to build a small Optical Quantum Computer?‘ and ‗Let's do Quantum Computing over Cloud‘
were delivered by Prof. Anirban Pathak (JIIT, Noida). The participants were also imparted hands-
on training on cloud based quantum computing. The programme was concluded by Dr. Pushpa
Bindal who also delivered the vote of thanks. The event witnessed a positive feedback from the
participants.
Workshop on Quantum Physics: An Insight under way: (a) Dr. Pushpa Bindal felicitating Prof. Ajoy Ghatak in the presence
of Dr. Anula Maurya;(b) Prof. Patrick Dasgupta ;(c) Prof. Anurag Sharma; (d) Prof. K. Thyagarajan & (e) Prof. Kamal
Dutta delivering their talks and (f) Prof. Anirban Pathak demonstrating hands-on experiments.
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(B) Workshop on ‘Quantum Mechanics and Applications‟
A one-day workshop on Quantum Mechanics and Applications was held on January 23, 2018 at
Amity University, Haryana (AUH). It was organized by AUH and NASI - Delhi Chapter under the
convenorship of Prof. A. K. Yadav, Director, ASAS, AUH. During the inaugural session of the
workshop, Prof. Yadav welcomed the participants while Prof. Padamkali Banerjee (Pro-VC, AUH)
shared her views about the event. Prof. Ajoy Ghatak briefly spoke about the NASI and its activities.
(a) (b) (c)
Workshop on Quantum Mechanics and Applications held on January 23, 2018 at Amity University Haryana(AUH)
underway; L-R: (a) Prof. Padmakali Banerjee and Prof. A K Yadav, felicitating Prof. Ajoy K Ghatak; (b) Prof. K.
Thyagarajan and (c) Prof. Anirban Pathak delivering their talks
The inaugural session was followed by the technical sessions. Prof. Ghatak expressed his views on
‗Evolution of Quantum Theory‘ and ‗Schrodinger Equation & Basic Concepts in Entanglement‘.
These lectures were followed by the lecture of Prof. K. Thyagarajan (Bennett University, Greater
Noida) on ‗Quantum Nature of Light and the Photon‘. The last two lectures of the workshop were
delivered by Prof. Anirban Pathak (JIIT, Noida) on the themes „How to build a small Optical
Quantum Computer?‘ and ‗Let's do Quantum Computing over Cloud‟.
3. Award Lectures
i. Prof. N R Dhar Memorial Lecture
The NASI-Delhi Chapter and National Institute of Immunology (NII) jointly organized Prof. N R
Dhar Memorial Lecture on April 7, 2017. The lecture on Peptide Diversity in Cone Snail
Venom: Integrating Mass Spectrometry and Next Generation Sequencing in the Analysis of
Natural Peptide Libraries was delivered by Prof. P. Balaram (Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian
Institute of Science, Bangalore and Formerly Director, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore). The
program was presided over by Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma (Past President of NASI). Dr. Anil
Suri, Director, NII, delivered the welcome address. Prof. Ajoy Ghatak apprised the audience about
the significance of the award and Dr. Niraj Kumar (Executive secretary, NASI) proposed the vote
of thanks.
ii. Prof. M G K Menon Award Lecture
NASI Delhi Chapter and National Institute of Immunology (NII) organized Prof. M G K Menon
Award Lecture on April 21, 2017. The lecture on Biomedical Research; Past, Present & Future
was delivered by Prof. P. N. Tandon (National Professor & Founder President, NBRC Society,
Manesar). The program was presided over by Dr. Anil Kakodkar, President, NASI. Dr. Soumya
Swaminathan, DG, ICMR was the Guest of Honour on the occasion. Dr. Chandrima Shaha,
Professor of Eminence & Former Director, NII gave introductory remarks while Dr. Anil Suri,
Director, NII delivered the welcome address. Prof. Ajoy Ghatak introduced Prof. P. N. Tandon
and Dr. Niraj Kumar (Executive secretary, NASI) delivered the vote of thanks.
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Jammu
The following activities were organized by the Chapter:
1. World Environment Day
The Chapter organized some of the activities viz. quiz competitions and poster
presentations by the science students in the Department of Botany, on the eve of the
World Environment Day at University of Jammu. On June 5, 2018, the Secretary of the
Local Chapter delivered a lecture in the Department of Botany, University of Jammu. An
exhibition, portraying the stamps of the wild lives of different countries was also
organized to observe the World Environment Day. The program ended with presenting
the awards to the students winning the contests.
2. Lecture on „Cultural diversity and Phytodiversity‟
The Chapter organized a lecture on Cultural diversity and Phytodiversity on August 3,
2017 in the NE hot spot‘. The lecture was delivered by Prof. P. Tandon. A large number
of students from different departments attended the lecture.
3. Lecture on „Significance of Science Education‟; Poster and Quiz Competitions
On the eve of the National Science Day, the Secretary, Jammu Chapter, delivered a
lecture on the Significance of Science Education in the Government Degree College,
Reasi. The lecture was followed by Poster and Quiz Competitions as well as the prize
distribution to the winners of the contests.
4. National Science Day
The Chapter observed the National Science Day on February 28, 2018 by organizing a
one-day workshop on ‗The tools and techniques in scientific research‘ at IIIM, Jammu.
Staff members and research scholars from University of Jammu and IIIM, Jammu
participated in this program. Dr. Shantanu Das Gupta, Head Biology, Reliance, and
Prof. M. K. Dhar from Department of Biotechnology, University of Jammu also shared
their expertise on the subjects of relevance.
The Chapter also nominated 12 women scientists, who participated in the National
Conference on Technological Empowerment of Women organized by NASI on March 8-9,
2018 at Vigyan Bhawan, Delhi.
Prof. P Tandon delivering a lecture on August 3, 2017 at the Department of Botany, University of Jammu
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The winners of the competitions held at Government Degree College, Reasi on Feb. 26, 2018
Jharkhand
The following activities were organized by the Chapter: 1. Chapter-School Interaction Programme
The NASI-Jharkhand Chapter visited different schools and colleges for interacting with the students
under the Chapter‘s School Interaction Programme. Dr. Arvind Sinha, the Chairpman, Dr. R. K.
Sahu, the Secretary and Dr. Abhilash visited different schools and colleges of Jharkhand region
namely Carmel Junior College Jamshedpur; Atomic Energy Central School, Jadugora; Atomic
Energy Central School, Narwa Pahar, SDSM school, Jamshedpur, Karim City College, Jamshedpur
and Women‘s College Jamshedpur and interacted with more than 1000 students and 75 Science
teachers. While interacting with the teachers, the team also apprised them with correct methodology
of teaching science subjects by adopting a holistic approach. The senior students were briefed with
the relevance of the allied areas of S&T viz. Biotechnology, Chemistry and Materials Science etc.
for their career building as well as in their day to day life. Students were also encouraged for active
participation in designing and making scientific models for different exhibitions on State and
National level.
Dr. Arvind Sinha interacting with the students at DAE Central School, Jadugora (UCIL)
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2. Science & Technology Sensitization Program (STSP)for Women
The Chapter organized a two-day Science & Technology Sensitization Program for Women in
joint collaboration with CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur, during Oct 5 - 6,
2017. The Program was attended by more than 300 delegates from different institutions viz. Ranchi
University, Kolhan University, Jharkhand Central University, Women‘s College, Cooperative
College, Graduate College, BIT Mesra, NIT Jamshedpur, SOA University Bhubaneswar and NML
Jamshedpur. Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma, former Secretary to the Govt. of India, Department of
Biotechnology, was the Chief Guest, while Mrs Anamika Majumdar, winner of KBC 2017 was the
Guest of Honor. Prof. Sharma, while delivering inaugural address, expressed her concern about the
contribution of fewer women in S&T as compared to the male counterparts. She encouraged the
women researchers and students to be innovative and choose S&T as their career/profession. The
workshop covered two major topics namely ‗Scientific Paper/ Project Writing‘ and ‗Technological
Empowerment of Women through Entrepreneurship development‘. Mrs. Majumdar briefed the
audience about the role of different NGOs in women empowerment and encouraged the young
students to be innovative and develop entrepreneurship skills. Prof. Paramjit Khurana, Dr.
Pratibha Jolly, Dr. Poornima Sharma, Dr. S. K. Mishra, Prof. U. C. Srivastava, Prof. R. P.
Manna, Prof. K. K. Singh and Dr. Niraj Kumar also shared their views in the workshop. A
special session for the tribal students, chaired by Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma was also conducted
on Oct 6, 2017. Prof. Sharma made them aware on the role of nutrition and hygiene in their life.
Other experts Dr. Niraj Kumar and Dr. Arvind Sinha also shared their views.
The Inaugural Session underway L-R: Dr. Ramesh Singh; Prof. U.C. Srivasatva; Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma; Ms. Anamika Majumdar;
Dr. Niraj Kumar & Dr. Arvind Sinha
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Group Photograph STSP-2017 Glimpes of the event organised
3. National Science Day
The Chapter celebrated the National Science Day on February 27, 2017. Best Science Teacher
Award(s) for Jharkhand state were also given away on this day by the chapter. The award instituted
in 2017 witnessed a welcome change in 2018. In 2017, the nominations for the award were invited
from Jamshedpur region only. However, in 2018, the nominations were invited in both senior and
junior categories from the entire Jharkhand State. Total 27 nominations (14 in senior category and 13
in junior category) were received from the different districts viz. East Singbhum, West Singhbhum,
Ranchi, Bokaro and Dumka. Nominations were screened by a committee chaired by Dr. S. K.
Mishra, Chief Scientist and Head HR Division, CSIR NML. Based on the evaluation, following four
teachers (two in each category) were short listed and conferred the best science teacher award:
S. N. Name of the Teacher Category School
1. Mr. Bibhuti Nath Jha PGT Jawahar Vidya Mandir, Ranchi
2. Mrs. Sangeeta Chatrath PGT Little Flower School, Jamshedpur
33 3. Mr. Manoj Kumar Singh TGT Middle School, Potka
4. Mr. Amod Kumar Mishra TGT State High School Chaibasa
Prof. Murali Sastry, CEO, IIT Bombay-Monash Research Academy was the Chief Guest and
Mr. R. K. P. Singh, District Education Officer, East Singhbhum was the Guest of Honor on the
National Science Day Programme, attended by more than 200 students. Prof. Murali Sastry, a
nanotechnologist of international repute, delivered his talk on Safe Drinking Water through
Nanotechnology (TATA SWATCH). All the awardees also made presentation on their
contributions in the teaching of science and motivating the students for innovation.
L-R: Prof. Murali Sastry inaugurating the National Science Day program & the Best Science Teacher Awardees
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Kolkata
The Chapter organized the following activities:
1. National Technology Day
The Kolkata Chapter of The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI), observed the
National Technology Day in joint collaboration with National Academy of Environmental
Sciences, India and Indian Science News Association (ISNA) at Bose Institute, Rajabazar
campus on May 11, 2017. Prof. P. K. Ray, the President of Indian Science News
Association, Kolkata and former director of Bose Institute, Kolkata, present on the occasion
shared his vision about ISNA. Prof. B. P. Chatterjee briefed about NASI and its activities
being organized through its different chapters across the country. Dr. Sankar Prasad
Mukherjee, Emeritus Professor and Chairman, Hooghly Engineering and Technology
College, Dr. Upendra Nath Nandi, Department of Physics, Scottish Church College and
Prof. Parimal Chandra Sen of Bose Institute delivered their talks.
2. World Environment Day
The Chapter observed World Environment Day on June 5, 2017 at Sishu Bikash College of
Education, Sonarpur in South 24 Pargana district, West Bengal. Dr. Hemanta Kumar
Majumder briefed about NASI and Mr. Sandip Sen introduced the speakers of the event.
Prof. B. P. Chatterjee addressed on ‗Man and Nature‘. Prof. S. C. Roy, Former Professor,
Bose Institute also shared his views on this occasion. Prof. R. C. Srivastava proposed the
vote of thanks.
The programme underway
3. Science Awareness Program on Cancer
The Chapter also arranged Science Awareness Program on Cancer at B.T. Road Govt
Sponsored High School on July 28, 2017. Prof. B. P. Chatterjee spoke about NASI and its
activity. Prof. Parimal Sen, while introducing the speakers, expressed his views on the
subject. Prof. Gauri Sankar Sa of Bose Institute talked about ‗What is Cancer‘. Dr. Shib
Sankar Roy, Indian Institute of Chemical Biology spoke on ‗Human Genome: Fact and
Future‘. After the lectures, there was an interactive session conducted by Prof. P. C. Sen.
Prof. R. C. Srivastava proposed the vote of thanks. The program was organized by Mr.
Sandip Sen.
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4. Best Science Teacher Award Program
The Chapter like every year arranged Best Science Teacher Award Program for the school
science teachers of different schools in Kolkata and Howrah on December 19, 2017 at Bose
Institute. The theme of the Lecture Programme was ‗Nuclear Research and its Usefulness in
Modern Society‘. A total of nine school teachers participated in the lecture program, out of
which two teachers viz. Dr. Damayanti Roy of Oriental Seminary High School for Girls and
Dr. Soma Banerjee of Sri Sikshayatan were selected for the award.
The Best Teacher Award programme underway
The Registrar of the university welcomed the audience. Hon‟ble Vice Chancellor, Prof.
Saikat Moitra presided over the function and delivered the inaugural address. Dr. Hemanta
Majumder briefed about NASI. The award comprising cash money worth Rs 10,000.00 and
a plaque was presented by Hon‘ble Vice Chancellor.
5. National Science Day
The Chapter observed the National Science Day on February 28, 2018 at Nehru Balika
Vidyalaya, Domjur, Howrah. The function was attended by the students and teachers of
different schools. Prof. R. C. Srivastava briefed about NASI and its activities. Mr. Sandip
Sen talked about the significance of the National Science Day. Prof. B. P. Chatterjee
delivered a lecture on ‗Sir CV Raman and his Contributions to Modern Science‘. Dr. Partha
Karmakar talked on ‗Mathematics for All‘.
A view of the National Science Day Celebration
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6. Workshop on Science
The Chapter organized a Workshop on Science for School Students in joint collaboration
with Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Education, Kolkata on March 7, 2018 at
Nachinda J. K. High School, Nachinda, Purba Medinipur. Dr. Papiya Nandi, Ex-Professor
in the Department of Physics, Jadavpur University addressed on ‗Science and Scientists‘, on
this occasion. Sri Anubhab Bera, Assistant teacher of Mustafapur J. S. School talked on
‗Human Respiratory System‘ while Prof. Basudev Bhattacharya, President of Sky
Watchers Association, Kolkata shared his views on ‗Akash Chena‘, and Dr. Subhash
Chandra Samanta, Formerly, Professor of Physics, Midnapore College delivered a lecture
on ‗Origin of Force‘.
7. World Water Day
The Chapter observed the World Water Day based on the theme ‗Nature for Water‘, in joint
collaboration with Bengal National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BNCCI) and Water
Resources Investigation and Development Department, Government of West Bengal. The
seminar was held on March 22, 2018 at BNCCI premises. Mr. Subrata Gupta, IAS,
Principal Secretary inaugurated the seminar. The welcome address was delivered by Mrs.
Bani Roy Choudhury, President, BNCCI while Dr. Hemanta Kumar Majumder,
delivered the key note address. Shri S. Muraleedharan, Director, CGCRI and Mr. B. K.
Maity, DG, Water Supply, Kolkata Municipal Corporation also shared their views on the
occasion. A booklet on „World Water Day – 2018 Seminar‟ was released by Dr. H. K.
Majumdar, Prof. R. C. Srivastava and other executive members of BNCCI on this
occasion. Prof. L. M. Roy of BNCCI proposed the vote of thanks.
The dignitaries releasing a booklet on „World Water Day‟
8. Workshop on „Sanitation, Safe Water and Conservation‟
A two-day workshop on Sanitation, Safe Water and Conservation was held on January
16-17, 2018 at Ramananda Centenary College, Laulara, Puncha Block in the district Purulia,
West Bengal. The welcome address was delivered by the Principal of the College while the
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Deputy Collector of Manbazar subdivision inaugurated the seminar. Several eminent
dignitaries were present on the occasion. During the inaugural session, Prof. B. P.
Chatterjee spoke about NASI and the significance of the seminar as well as the workshop.
Prof. Parimal Chandra Sen delivered a lecture on ‗Water Contamination, Prevention, and
Health‘. Prof. Samir Sikdar of Bose Institute explicated on ‗Water Conservation‘ while
Mr. Sandip Sen expressed his views on ‗Water Budget and Sustainable Use of Water‘. On
the second day of the event, Dr. Sawikant Shah delivered a lecture on ‗Fluoride and Other
Mineral Contamination in Water, Harmful Results, Prevention and Precautions‘. During the
workshop, Dr. R. C. Srivastava experimentally depicted a demonstration on ‗Water
Purification‘ by testing the hardness, alkalinity, pH of water. Dr. Sourav Baxi of Ramananda
Centenary College spoke about ‗Water Resources, Rainfall and Water Wastage in Purulia‘.
Mr. Sandip Sen proposed the vote of thanks.
The seminar on „Sanitation, Safe Water and Conservation‟ underway
Lucknow
The Chapter organized the following activitites:
1. Participation of the Chapter in Brainstorming session on „Safe Water and Sanitation‟,
organized by NASI
The NASI-Lucknow Chapter participated in the „Brainstorming on Safe Water and Sanitation‟
organized by NASI during September 15-17, 2017at NASI HQ, Allahabad. Prof. K J Nath,
President, IPHE, India and Chairman, Arsenic Task Force, West Bengal, delivered key note address
on ‗A review of the current status of community water supply and sanitation in the country‘. The
Presidential Address was delivered by Dr. Anil Kalkodkar, President, NASI, Allahabad. Dr. P. K.
Seth, NASI Senior Scientist Platinum Jubilee Fellow, Former Director, Indian Institute of
Toxicology Research, Lucknow chaired the session ‗Waste Water and Industrial Effluent Treatment
Technology‘. Dr. Rudra D Tripathi, Emeritus Scientist (CSIR) and Emeritus Professor (ACSIR)
from Plant Ecology & Environmental Science Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute
emphasized on ‗Contamination of ground water and soils by arsenic and strategies for reducing its
load in soils and crops for sustainable environment and agriculture‘. Dr. Pankaj Kumar
Srivastava, Senior Scientist, Environmental Science Division, CSIR-National Botanical Research
Institute, Lucknow emphasized the role of micro-organisms / microbial contamination in mitigation
of arsenic in paddy rhizosphere. Prof. Rana Pratap Singh, School of Environmental Science,
coordinator, Centre for Industry and Institutions Partnership Program, Babasaheb Bhimrao
Ambedkar University, Lucknow discussed the importance of ‗Designer ecosystem for restoration of
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waste land‘. He emphasized on the development of designer ecosystem. Dr. N Manickam, Senior
Principal Scientist, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow delivered a talk on
‗Bioremediation Strategies for Pesticides and Oily Sludge Waste Management‘.
2. Science and Technology Sensitization Program
The NASI-Lucknow Chapter and CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow jointly
organized a Science and Technology Sensitization Program on 27 and 28 October, 2017 at
CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow. The programme commenced with the inaugural address by Dr. (Mrs.)
Manju Sharma, NASI-DST Distinguished Woman Scientist Chair, Formerly Secretary to the Govt.
of India, Department of Biotechnology. Dr. Amit Ghosh, J.C. Bose Distinguished Professor,
National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (ICMR), Kolkata delivered the key note address
on the topic ‗Doing Science‘. Prof. S. K. Barik, Director, CSIR-NBRI welcomed the participants
and Dr. C. S. Nautiyal, Chairman, NASI-Lucknow Chapter & Former Director, CSIR-NBRI,
highlighted the activities of the program while Prof. V. P. Kamboj, Former Director, CSIR-CDRI,
Lucknow and Past President, NASI delivered the presidential address. Prof. Veena Tandon,
General Secretary, NASI proposed the vote of thanks. The first Technical Session on ‗Science Paper
Writing‘ (Part-1) was chaired by Dr. C. S. Nauiyal. Prof. Paramjit Khurana of Department of
Plant Molecular Biology, University of Delhi, South Campus, gave a lecture on ‗Art of Scientific
Writing‘, Prof. Shally Awasthi, KGMU, Lucknow gave a talk on ‗Effective Science Presentation‘.
The consecutive part (Part-2) of the session was chaired by Prof. Veena Tandon. Prof. S. K. Barik
delivered a lecture on ‗Scientific Project Development and Paper Writing‘ and Prof. Madhoolika
Agrawal, BHU, Varanasi elaborated on the ‗Art of Project Writing‘ giving description on step-wise
procedure for project writing as well as financial/ budget details to be followed and cautioned the
students from the malpractices in paper and project writing. On the consecutive day of the event, the
session on „Sensitization for the Technological Empowerment of Women‘ (Part-1) was chaired by
Dr. P. K. Seth, Former Director, IITR, Lucknow; Distinguished Scientist, Biotech Park, Lucknow.
Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan, National Institute of Nutrition, ICMR, Hyderabad delivered a
lecture on ‗Obesity as an interface depicting altered nutrition and life style changes-Current
management strategies‘. Dr. Asha Mathur, Head, Department of Microbiology and Pathology,
Saraswati Dental & Medical College, Lucknow shared her views on ‗HIV - AIDS in current
scenario‘. Part-2 of this session based on ‗Entrepreneurship Development‘ was chaired by Dr.
Pramod Tandon, Formerly Vice-Chancellor, NEHU, Chief Executive Officer, Biotech Park,
Lucknow. A lecture entitled ‗Bio-entrepreneurship: Opportunities and Options‘ was delivered by Ms
Shreya Malik, BCIL, New Delhi. Dr. Suchitra Banerjee, NASI Senior Scientist, CSIR-Central
Institute for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow shared her knowledge on ‗Agriculture and
women‘.
The valedictory session of the program was chaired by Prof. Manju Sharma and co-chaired
by Prof. Paramjit Khurana and Dr. C. S. Nautiyal. Dr. Madhu Dikshit, Director, CSIR-Central
Drug Research Institute, Lucknow was the eminent speaker. She highlighted the achievements of
CSIR and various facets of S&T. She further clarified on S&T innovative policy; and presented a
detailed portrayal on R&D budget allocation for the year 2015-16 in India with major share on
research and publication and the statistics depicting the position of India including sector-wise
publications. The Interactive Session and Panel Discussion was chaired by Prof. Manju Sharma
and joined by all the panelists/ experts including, Prof. V. P. Kamboj, Dr. P. K. Seth, Prof.
Pramod Tandon, Prof. Veena Tandon, Prof. Paramjit Khurana, Dr. C. S. Nautiyal, Dr. Amit
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Ghosh, Dr. Madhu Dikshit, Prof. S. K. Barik, Dr. Asha Mathur, Dr. Vijayalakshmi
Venkatesan, Dr. Suchitra Banerjee and Ms. Shreya Malik. Dr. Niraj Kumar Executive
Secretary, NASI coordinated the session and Ms. Archana Pant, NASI Woman Scientist proposed
the vote of thanks to all the dignitaries and participants for their contribution towards successful
organization of the event.
The Inaugural Session underway
L-R: Dr. Amit Ghosh, Dr. C. S. Nautiyal, Prof. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma, Prof. S. K. Barik,
Prof. V. P. Kamboj & Prof. Veena Tandonb
Prof.(Mrs.) Manju Sharma delivering the inaugural address
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View of the audience during inauguration session of Science and Technology Sensitization Program; First row (L-R):
Dr. Suchitra Banerjee, Prof. Madhoolika Agrawal, Prof. R.S. Tripathi, Prof. Pramod Tandon, Prof. Veena Tandon,
Dr. Manju Sharma, Prof. Asha Mathur and Dr. V.P. Kamboj.
The experts addressing the audience: Clockwise from above: Dr. V.P. Kamboj, Prof. Veena Tandon, Prof. Paramjit Khurana,
Prof. S.K. Barik giving momento to Prof. Amit Ghosh, Dr. P.K. Seth, Prof. Asha Mathur, Dr. Madhu Dikshit, Dr. Shreya
Malik , Dr. Shally Awasthi, Dr. C.S. Nautiyal, Dr. Vijaylakshmi Venkatesh, Dr. Niraj Kumar, Prof. Madhoolika Agarwal &
Dr. Suchitra Banerjee
The Chapter also arranged to send the under graduates, post graduates, women faculty members,
researchers and scientists from the institutions viz. Amity University, NBRI etc for their participation
in the NASI events- (i.) Workshop on Entrepreneurship and Hands-on Training for Skill
Development organized by NASI on November 15-16, 2017 at DRI, Chitrakoot.
(ii).National Conference on „Technological Empowerment of Women‟, organized by NASI on March
8-9, 2018 for commemorating the International Women‟s Day.
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3. National Science Day
The NASI-Lucknow Chapter in collaboration with Regional Science City, Lucknow observed a
National Science Day on February 28, 2018. On the opening day of the event, contests based on Tree
identification and Fine arts were organized. Two popular lectures were delivered on this occasion.
Prof. M. M. Verma of Physics Department, Lucknow University delivered a lecture entitled ‗Seeing
the light for young budding scientist of tomorrow‘ in which he cited various illustrations based on
‗Raman Effect‘ in day-to- day life and also explicated the scientific basis of light scattering and
rainbow, black hole, galaxy and nebula etc. Dr. P. K. Srivastava, Formerly Scientist, CDRI gave a
lecture on ‗Bionics‘. He explained how to learn science from living objects and apply them in non-
living abiotic components. The Chief Guest of the function, Dr. Mukesh Kumar Singh, District
Inspector of School (DIOS), encouraged the audience to be inspired from C.V. Raman‘s scientific
contribution. Dr. Raj Mehrotra, proposed the vote of thanks to all students, teachers and scientists
present on the occasion.
National Science Day celebrations underway; L-R: The students and the speakers; the participants of the contest; a view of
audience
4. The 8th
Science Expo
Regional Science City, Lucknow (a constituent unit of National Council of Science Museums (NCSM)
functioning under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India) organized the 8th
Science Expo-2018
during March 26-28, 2018 in association with about 20 different scientific laboratories and institutions.
The event comprising the exhibitions, popular lectures, competitions for children, teachers etc. was
aimed at show-casing the achievements of research institutions; and also an endeavour to bring the
contribution of research to the common man.
Dr. Nitya Nand inaugurating the 8
th Science Expo at Regional Science City, Lucknow
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Dr. C. M. Nautiyal, Former Scientist, BSIP, Lucknow delivering a talk on the topic „Aao Karein Jeevan Ki Talash‟ during
Science Expo; Dr. Nitya Nand (Chairperson) and Dr. Anand Akhila (Co-Chair) are also present
Dr. Nitya Nand interacting with the participants during the 8th
Science Expo at RSC, Lucknow
Students visiting Science Expo Exhibition at RSC, Lucknow
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Prof. S.K. Barik, Dr. Anand Akhila, Dr. Pradeep Srivastava, Dr. Raj Mehrotra and others distributing prizes to
the winners during the Valedictory Function
Dr. Alok Kalra, Chief Scientist, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plant was also
conferred upon the Fellowship of NASI-2017.
Mumbai
The following activities were undertaken by the Chapter:
1. National Technology Day
A program based on the theme ‗Sustainable Technology for Development‟ was organized in association
with the Society for Clean Environment (SOCLEEN) and Rajiv Gandhi Science and Technology
Commission, Government of Maharashtra (RGSTC, GoM) to observe the National Technology Day at
the Institute of Science, Mumbai; and attended by a large number of students, teachers of various
academic institutions, several Fellows and Members of NASI and members of Bruhan Mumbai
Municipal Corporation; and also the civic society members . In his keynote address, Prof. Jai Pal
Mittal, Former President of NASI shared his views on ‗Innovative Radiation Science and Technologies
for Inclusive Development‘. Prof. K. P. Mishra, Former Scientific Officer-H+, BARC, Mumbai, talked
about ‗Radiation Technology: Health and Environment‘ and highlighted applications of radiation-based
technologies in pharmacy, medicines, cosmetics, water treatment, healthcare, etc. Dr. Awkash Kumar,
CEO and Founder of Sustainable Approach for Green Environment, SAGE and General Secretary of
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SOCLEEN spoke on ‗Solid-Waste Management & Technology Demonstration‘. He discussed about a
compact model for solid-waste management, useful for usage in household kitchens. Dr. A. V. Sapre,
Member Secretary, RGSTC, GoM elaborated on ‗Technology for Development‘. Highlighting the
need for the development of environmentally sound technologies, he presented several such
technologies and further stressed upon the relevance for establishing a robust link between Science,
Technology and Development for better acquaintance of inventions and innovations in technology.
Various action points including students‘ group activities/ projects on technology of common usage/
cluster mode activities, etc. were suggested. Prof. Girjesh Govil delivered the concluding remarks.
2. The first Indian Academy of Sciences - Springer Nature Chair Lecture
NASI-Mumbai Chapter organized a talk on ‗Challenges of Traveling to and Living on Mars‘ on
December 13, 2017 at Nehru Centre, Mumbai as a part of its activities in joint collaboration with the
first Indian Academy of Sciences, sponsored by Springer-Nature in the area of sustainability. The
function attended by more than 250 people was presided over by Hon‟ble Dr. Anil Kakodkar, the
President of NASI. Prof. Frank H. Shu in his talk covered a wide range of issues and offered possible
solutions for mankind‘s travel and habitation at Mars. He brought out numerous matters relevant to
climate change and sustainability, technologies such as the molten salt thorium reactor concept and the
pyrolysis of biomass to reduce carbon emission, etc. There were extensive discussions, interventions
and queries by the audiences on various issues discussed in the lecture. The interaction session was
conducted by Prof Girjesh Govil, TIFR and Director of Nehru Centre- Shri Arvind Paranjpye. Prof.
A. K. Singh (Chairman, NASI-Mumbai Chapter) presented the vote of thanks.
3. Science & Technology Promotion Program
The NASI-Mumbai Chapter under its Science and Technology Promotional Activities organized a
Public Lecture in the area of Biophysical Sciences and Applications on January 20, 2018 at Vaze
College, Mumbai. The lecture was attended by more than 200 participants including teachers and
students from academic and research institutions, industry, civic society, etc. Prof. Jai Pal Mittal, the
former President of NASI, in his inspiring presidential address, stressed upon the significance of
research in higher education in Science and Technology by citing several examples from daily life
experiences that require scientific rationale. He encouraged the students towards the avenues and scope
in science and technology for taking up the challenges and contributing towards the development of
society, nation and humanity. Prof. S. S. Barve, Deputy Director of Scientific Research Centre (SRC)
of Kelkar Education Trust gave a bird‘s eye view of the SRC and its activities. Prof. M. R. Kurup,
Former Principal, Vaze College in his address stressed upon the significance of research in educational
institutions. Dr. (Mrs.) S. P. Bhave, Vice-Principal of Vaze College highlighted the achievements of
Vaze College. Prof. Anil K Singh, Chairman, NASI-Mumbai Chapter while welcoming the
participants on behalf of the Chapter, outlined the genesis, and science and technology objectives of
NASI and encouraged the students towards venturing into inconspicuous domains in the areas of their
research and training. Prof. K. P. Mishra, Scientific Officer H+ and Formerly Head, RBHS Division,
BARC in his introductory talk entitled ‗Impact of Biophysical Research in Biology and Medicine‘
lucidly covered important aspects of biophysical research and its impact in biology and medicine and
also cited several examples concerning with the radiation biology research. Prof. Girjesh Govil, INSA
Honorary Scientist and former senior professor, TIFR, Mumbai in his Public Lecture ‗Three-
Dimensional Structures of Proteins and Nucleic acids- A Tribute to Prof. G N Ramachandran‘ gave an
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excellent account of molecular structure and the techniques used for establishing three-dimensional
structures and discussed recent findings on the 3D structures of proteins and nucleic acids using NMR,
X-ray crystallography and theoretical calculations. He highlighted the contributions made by the
legendary Prof. G N Ramachandran, one of the most distinguished scientists of India during the mid
50s. The program concluded with discussion on the topics discussed as well as on general science and
technology education and research. Several queries put forth by the participants, were satisfactorily
answered by the experts. Dr. P. A. Hassan, Head, Thermal & Interfacial Chemistry, BARC; EC
Member, NASI-Mumbai Chapter delivered the vote of thanks.
The Chapter acknowledges the contribution of the Fellows and Members of the NASI-Mumbai
Chapter for their support; and also expresses its deep sense of gratitude to Hon‘ble Dr. Anil Kakodkar,
President, NASI, for his valuable advice and encouragement.
Glimpses of the events organized by the Chapter
North-eastern Region
The Chapter organized the following activities:
1. Science Awareness Program
The NASI-NER Chapter organized a Science Awareness Programme for school children at
Meghalaya Electricity Corporation Limited (MECL) Secondary School, Sumer, Ribhoi district in
Meghalaya to commemorate the World No Tobacco Day on May 31, 2017. The program started with
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a welcome address and short briefing about NASI and its activities related to Science and Society by
Dr. S.R. Joshi (Secretary, NASI NER Local Chapter). Prof. B.B.P. Gupta (Chairperson, NASI NER
Local Chapter) gave an outline on the contributions made by NASI, for the welfare of the general
public through intervention of science and technology. A popular lecture entitled ‗A curtain raiser on
Cancer and its tobacco connection‘ was delivered by Prof. R.N. Sharan, Department of Biochemistry,
NEHU, Shillong to make students aware about the ill effects of tobacco and its connection to cancer.
While talking about the major causes and different stages of cancer, Prof. R.N. Sharan, highlighted the
reasons for the North-east to emerge as the cancer capital of the country. He threw light on the lifestyle
and food habits responsible for the occurrence of the disease, especially the consumption of tobacco.
He advised students to follow hygienic food habits and also convince their elders to give up tobacco
consumption. Prof. B.B.P. Gupta and Prof. R.N. Sharan responded to the queries of the students in
the simplest way for them to understand the science of cancer, lifestyle and tobacco connections.
Around 350 students participated in this programme.
Science Awareness Programme underway
2. World Environment Day
The Chapter celebrated the World Environment Day in joint collaboration with NEHU Alumni
Association, NSS Cell, NEHU on June 5, 2017 in the premises of North-Eastern Hill University, Life
Sciences complex, Shillong by undertaking the task of cleaning the premises followed by plantation of
saplings. Dr. S.R. Joshi, Secretary, NER Chapter extended a warm welcome to the faculty, research
scholars and students. Prof. B.B.P. Gupta, Chairperson, NER Chapter introduced about the activities
of NER Local Chapter covering various aspects of science, particularly to popularize science especially
among young students. He emphasized the importance of preserving natural habitat for nature
conservation. Prof. Ramesh Sharma spoke about NASI and its awareness programmes for making
students sensitized towards the importance of such occasions as the World Environment Day. Around
250 students, scholars and faculty of Life sciences participated in the program. Prof. N. Saha, Fellow
of NASI and Prof. A.N. Rai, Former VC, NEHU also addressed the gathering.
3. Science Exposure Program
A one-day science exposure program for about 150 school children from class X to class XII was
organized by the Chapter on November 25, 2017 at the Shillong Science Centre, Meghalaya. Dr. S.R.
Joshi welcomed all. The children were exposed to different instruments and gadgets displayed at the
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science centre, their working principles and uses. After the visit to the science centre, the students were
taken for an open house exposure to different science laboratories of the university including the
laboratories of Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Physics.
The students and NASI team at Shillong Science Centre
4. Workshop on Preparation of Research Project
A one-day workshop on Preparation of Research Project proposal was organized by the Chapter on
November 15, 2017 at the North-East Institute of Ayurveda & Homoeopathy (NEIAH),
Mawdiangdiang, Meghalaya. Around 46 young faculties from different medical, research and
educational institutions viz. North-Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical
Sciences, Meghalaya, the North-East Institute of Ayurveda & Homoeopathy, St. Anthony`s College,
Shillong, St. Mary`s College, Shillong, and Lady Keane College, Shillong participated in the workshop.
The program started with a welcome address by Dr. S.R. Joshi followed by a briefing by Prof. B.B.P.
Gupta on the activities of the NASI Local Chapter. Prof. P. K. Goswami, Director, NEIAH stressed
on the need for such workshops to empower the young faculties for undertaking research activities and
guiding them for research project proposal writing. Prof. N. Saha conducted the first session where he
stressed on the opportunities provided by different funding agencies and government organizations to
support research activities in different institutions across the country. During the second session Prof.
N.K. Chrungoo, meticulously listed out the steps and formats required in the preparation of a research
project proposal; and stressed on the gap areas, innovativeness and importance of mentioning the
expected outcomes and the financial part (budget) in coherence with the objectives and timeline of the
project. The afternoon session witnessed a panel discussion comprising the team of experts Prof. B.B.P.
Gupta, Prof. N. Saha, Prof. N.K. Chrungoo and Dr. S.R. Joshi. The experts interacted with the
participants and motivated them for preparing some research proposal simultaneously clearing the
doubts concerning the preparatory modalities of research proposal.
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Participants and resource persons during the workshop at NEIAH
5. Science Awareness Programmes
i. The Chapter organized a one-day Science Awareness Program for school children on November
29, 2017 at Nongstoin College, West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya. A total of 350 students from eight
different schools of the district participated in the program. The Principal of the college, Dr. B.K.
Lait flang welcomed the NASI team and students to the program, and expressed his gratefulness
for having got the opportunity to host the program for school children. The program started with a
popular talk on ‗Amphibians and their relevance‘ by Prof. R.N.K. Hooroo, Department of
Zoology, NEHU, Shillong. She stressed on the importance of biodiversity and the role of
amphibians in maintaining the ecological balances. Prof. D. Syiem, Department of Biochemistry,
NEHU, Shillong while presenting a lucid picture of the universe described various dimensions and
units of measurement in science by citing various examples.
ii. As a part of its nation-wide attempt to popularize, promote and inculcate interest in science among
school students, the Chapter organized a one- day Science Awareness Program for school
children in collaboration with the Government Kolasib College, Kolasib, Mizoram on February
16, 2018. The NASI team comprising Prof. B.B.P. Gupta, Chairman, and Dr. S.R. Joshi, Secretary
of NASI NER Chapter; and Prof. Anupam Chatterjee and Prof. (Mrs.) R.N.K. Hooroo from North-
Eastern Hill University, Shillong, Meghalaya travelled for 16 hours by road to reach Kolasib, about
350 km from Shillong. The program (held on February 16, 2018 in the conference hall of the
college) was chaired by Mr. Christopher Lawlor, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology,
Govt Kolasib College, the Convener of the program. On behalf of the Principal Mr. T.
Zahmingliana, Coordinator, I.Q.A.C., Govt. Kolasib College welcomed the distinguished guests,
school students, faculty and students of the host College. About 250 participants, including school
students as well as teachers and students of Govt. Kolasib College attended the programme. Prof.
B.B.P. Gupta spoke on the beginning and history of the oldest academy, as an attempt to break
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away from the British-oriented system of education and research in India, and its evolution as a
body of academicians and research scientists who wanted to popularize and inculcate an interest in
science education and research among students and masses. Prof. Anupam Chatterjee delivered a
talk on ‗Lifestyle and Cancer‘, highlighting the types of cancers, ongoing research in the field of
cancer and Nobel Prize winners in cancer research, causes of cancer, and how one can reduce the
risk of cancer by modifying one‘s lifestyle, food habits and early screening through health
checkups. Prof. (Mrs.) R.N.K. Hooroo delivered a talk on ‗Breeding of Amphibians (Anurans)
and their Conservation‘. She introduced rich diversity of amphibians of the North-east region, and
spoke on different reproductive strategies (egg-laying) of different species of frogs, continuing to
highlight the necessity and ways to conserve our environment and natural resources, such as afford
station, water conservation, protection of wildlife, etc. The convener thanked the NASI-NER Local
Chapter Shillong for their grand initiative and hoped that such program can motivate students from
such remote areas like Kolasib to get into the fired of science and chose their career in Science.
Prof. B.B.P. Gupta expressed thanks and gratefulness to the college authorities for hosting the
program for the benefit of student community.
Coordinator IQAC, Kolasib College briefing the team
iii. After completing the program at Kolasib, Mizoram, the team of the NASI NER Local Chapter
travelled back to Assam and halted at Silchar to conduct the Science Awareness program at Silchar to
popularize and inculcate interest in science among school students in collaboration with Guru Charan
College, Silchar, Assam on February 17, 2018 in the Conference Hall of the GC college, attended by
about 200 school children. The program was chaired by Dr. Debipreeta Dutta, Department of
Zoology, GC College, the Convener of the program. After the introduction, the Vice Principal of the
College welcomed the guests, school students, faculty and students of the host college, on behalf of the
Principal. Prof. B.B.P. Gupta spoke on the relevance and history of NASI, as an attempt to break
away from the British-oriented system of education and research in India and its efforts to popularize
and inculcate an interest in science education among students and masses. Dr. S. R. Joshi highlighted
the purpose to promote an interest in science among school students. Prof. Anupam Chatterjee
delivered a talk on ‗Lifestyle and Cancer‘, mentioning the types of cancers, causes of cancer, areas of
cancer research and the holistic approach to cancer prevention by modifying one‘s lifestyle and early
screening through health checkups. Prof. (Mrs.) R.N.K. Hooroo delivered a talk on ‗Importance of
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Amphibians (Anurans) and their Conservation‘. Introducing various amphibians and reproductive
strategies of different frog species, she focused on the necessity and ways to conserve the environment
and natural resources, such as afforestation, water conservation, protection of wildlife, etc. This was
followed by a short popular talk on ‗Biotechnology-Career and opportunities‘ by Dr. S.R. Joshi who
presented the scope and opportunities in the emerging field of biotechnology and the basic
requirements while choosing a career in biotechnology. The program was attended by more than 200
participants, including school students and teachers. The convener thanked the NASI-NER Local
Chapter Shillong for their initiative and considering GC College as one of its venues for holding the
science awareness program and stressed on the importance of such events in motivating students from
remote areas.
The NER Local Chapter nominated 10 women scientists from North-east region to participate in the
National Conference on “Technological Empowerment of Women” organized by NASI HQ on 8th
-
9th
March 2018 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
6. Popular Science Lecture
The Local chapter organized a one-day Popular Science Lecture at NEHU, Shillong on March 13,
2018 to promote entrepreneurial aptitude and research related translational activities among the PG
students and research scholars of life sciences. The lectures were delivered by Prof. Pramod Tandon,
CEO, Biotech Park, Lucknow and Prof. Rishi Shankar. The program attended by about 150 students
and research scholars besides faculty of Life Science departments of NEHU, started with a short
briefing on NASI by Prof. B.B.P. Gupta, Chairman, NASI NER Local Chapter. The first lecture was
delivered by Prof. Pramod Tandon on „Bio-economy: Opportunities for Bio-Science Students‟ where
he dwelt on the relevance of bio-economy in the present context and how bio-economy is taking over
from fossil fuel economy in terms of needs and requirements. He presented the information on the bio-
resources and the need for their bio-prospection with reference to the biodiversity of NE region of
India. Prof. Rishi Shanker (Biotech Park, Lucknow) delivered a popular talk on ‗Water Quality:
Probing Aquatic Landscapes, Pathogenic bacteria and Beyond‘. He highlighted how basic research
outputs can be translated into technology. He emphasized the role of incubator cell in an institution like
a university.
Prof. Pramod Tandon delivering a Popular Lecture
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Patna
The Chapter organized the following scientific activities:
1. A Debate Competition on ‗Swachhta ka Vaigyanik Mahatva‘ was organized among the students of
class 9th
and 11th
at Project Shyamta Devi Girls +2 School, Dhanarua, a block of Patna District. The
faculty members as well as the principal of the school, Mrs. Madhu Kumari, were actively involved
in organizing the program. The students discussed all the related issues of its significance from
household level to the school, village, town and country. The winners were also awarded. Another
debate competition was simultaneously conducted at ‗Sir GD Patliputra High School, Kadamkuan,
Patna among students of 9th
standard on ‗Aadhunik Vigyan Vardan ya Abhishap‘. The teachers and
Principal, Dr. Sushma Rani, helped in organising the program. The students discussed on the latest
development in science in all its fields. Dr. P. Das encouraged the winners by honouring them with
trophy.
2. A Visit to Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna was made by the
under graduate students from Ganga Devi Women‘s College, Patna and the members of science
faculty to interact with scientists working in medical research. The enthusiastic students were very
much motivated by the Director and scientists during their lab-visit and also benefitted with the latest
technology.
3. A Guest lecture on ‗Water Scarcity and Security‘ was organized at Rajendra Memorial Research
Institute, Patna. Prof. A. K. Ghosh, Chairman, Pollution Control Board, Bihar delivered the lecture.
He emphasized on the condition of water in the state and demarcated the Arsenic and fluoride prone
districts of Bihar and their harmful effect in causing cancer and weakness in bones respectively. The
participants included scientists, research students and technical staff of RMRI and students of NIPER
Hajipur. The Chief Guest was welcomed by Dr. P. Das with shawl and memento. The vote of thanks
was extended by Dr. V. Ali.
Dignitaries on the dais during the programme at Rajendra Memorial Research Institute, Patna.
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Uttarakhand
The Chapter organized the following activities:
1. NASI Plenary lecture
A Plenary lecture was delivered by Dr. Shashi Bala Singh, Director General-Life Sciences,
DRDO, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi on the theme ‗Scientific Insight into Yoga‘. Highlighting
the R&D activities performed by DRDO for overall fitness of the Defense personnel, Dr. Singh
discussed various case studies related to yoga and the application of the existing scientific
knowledge for the same. She described the research contribution of DRDO in managing the life
style of defense personnel with special reference to the difficulties and challenges faced by those
living in extreme environment conditions such as high altitudes; and the relevance of yoga &
meditation to help them fulfill their duties even in hostile conditions. Underlining the yoga
practices, Dr. Singh motivated the audience to continuously practice yoga for attaining optimal
health and holistic well being.
Dr. Shashi Bala Singh delivering the Plenary Lecture
2. The 12th
Science Congress
The NASI-UK chapter organized the 12th
Uttarakhand Science Congress in joint collaboration
with Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST) during March 7-9, 2018 at
Vigyan Dham, Jhajra, Dehradun. While inaugurating the event, the Honorable Governor of
Uttarakhand, Dr. K. K. Paul, shared his views regarding S&T. A Brainstorming Session on
‗Uttarakhand- Health status and Research: An Introspection and Significance of Science
Communication in Himalayan Region‘ was also organized. Twelve technical sessions were
conducted during the three days of the event, including oral and poster sessions witnessing around
500 Young Scientists Awardees. Dr. Anjan Ray, Director, CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum,
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Dehradun; also the chief guest for the valedictory session, enlightened the young
researchers/scientists and appealed them to propagate science to every niche and corner of society.
The 12th
Uttarakhand Science Congress being organized at Vigyan Dham
L-R: The inaugural session underway; the awardees during the event
3. National Mathematics Day
The National Mathematics Day was organized by the Chapter on January 25, 2018, at UCOST,
Vigyan Dham, Dehradun. The event coordinated by Dr. D. P. Uniyal, Senior Scientific Officer and
Coordinator of NASI-UK Chapter, UCOST witnessed the presence of several students from the
nearby areas. Dr. M.O. Garg, Former DG, CSIR & Director, CSIR-IIP and Head-Refining &
Petchem (R&D), Reliance Industries Ltd. Mumbai, Lt. Col.(Ret.) Bharat Prakash, (Abacus expert),
Mr. Kuldeep Rawat, (Career Counselor) and Mr. J. P. Dobhal, the faculty members from Govt.
Girls Inter College, Dudli, Dehradun shared their views and interacted with the students.
Dr. D. P. Uniyal coordinating the event
4. National Science Day
The Chapter organized the National Science Day in joint collaboration with UCOST & NASI-UK
chapter. A popular lecture on ‗Spirituality and Science‘ was delivered by Dr. M. P. Bhatt, Former
Surgeon, Govt. Hospital, Dehradun; and hands-on training on LED making was also imparted. A
popular lecture was organized at Raj Bhawan in which Dr. Anil Kakodkar, Formerly Chairman,
AEC & Secretary, DAE, Govt. of India, the President of NASI, shared his vision on the relevance
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of S&T towards national development. An Exhibition by different universities/colleges was also
organized on the occasion.
The celebration of the National Science Day underway
5. National Technology Day
The National Technology Day was jointly organized by UCOST & NASI UK chapter on May 11,
2017. Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, Minister of State for higher education shared his views on issues of
Higher Education in the state and averred on adopting the scientific approach for its progress. Shri
Dinesh Chandra Sharma, Science Columnist and author, New Delhi delivered a lecture on
‗Making of Digital India: A Historical Prospective‘. Dr. Devendra Bhasin, Principal of DAV PG
College, Dehradun stressed on adopting a coherent approach to communicate science in all sections
of society for its benefits. Shri Rakesh Oberai, an industrialist stressed on utilizing and promoting
the simple and effective techniques towards the government‘s initiative for Clean India. The
programme was coordinated by Dr. D. P. Uniyal, Senior Scientific Officer, UCOST.
Inaugural ceremony of The National Technology Day underway
6. The Earth Day
The Chapter organized various events in joint collaboration with UCOST to mark the Earth Day
and disseminate the broad message of environmental conservation on April 22, 2017 at Vigyan
Dham (UCOST), Dehradun. Dr. S. S. Negi, Former Director General, MOEF, Govt. of India, New
Delhi was the chief guest on the occasion. Dr. K. S. Misra, Former Additional Director General,
Geological Survey of India & Professor, UPES, Dehradun, the key note speaker of the program,
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shared his views on ‗Remote Sensing of Earth‘ and highlighted various aspects and applications of
remote sensing on resource & earthquake mapping, mineral and oil exploration. Dr. Rajendra
Dobhal, Director General, UCOST welcomed the guests and motivated them towards conservation
of the planet earth. The event was coordinated by Dr. D. P. Uniyal, Senior Scientific Officer and
Coordinator of NASI-UK Chapter, UCOST.
Dr. Rajendra Dhobhal delivering the welcome address
7. IPR Day
The Chapter organized a popular lecture series to mark the Intellectual Property Right (IPR) Day
on April 26, 2017 at RSC, UCOST, Dehradun to learn about the role of intellectual property rights
in promoting creativity and innovation. A total no. of 105 students from various schools and
colleges participated in the event.
Lecture on intellectual property rights underway
8. World Environment Day
The event was jointly organized by Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST)
& NASI UK chapter to observe the World Environment Day on June 05, 2017.
Prof. A. N. Purohit, the key speaker on the occasion delivered a lecture on ‗Himalayan Region in
the context of Climate Change‘. He highlighted the human driving forces causing environmental
changes in the Himalayas. Dr. Brij Mohan Sharma, Secretary SPECS presented his views and
also proposed the vote of thanks. The UCOST members also participated in tree plantation (plants
donated by Mr. Bajaj, a Media person, and an environment activist) activity in the premises to
contribute their bit towards protecting the environment.
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A view of the dignitaries and participants celebrating the World Environment Day
9. International Yoga Day
The Chapter organized a popular lecture on June 21, 2017 in Vigyan Dham in joint collaboration of
UCOST, Dehradun to mark the International Yoga Day. The lecture entitled ‗Yog: A Scientific
Insight‘ was delivered by Mrs. Pushpa Gusain, District Institute of Education & Training (DIET),
Dehradun. Various yogasanas were also demonstrated by her student, Mr. Vivek Chauhan on this
occasion. The programme witnessed the presence of around 70 participants including the staff
members of UCOST.
Mrs. Pushpa Gusain addressing the audience on International Yoga Day
10. Popular Lectures
The Chapter organized the following lectures in joint collaboration with the UCOST:
i. A Special lecture session on Climate Change was conducted for progressive female farmers
of Himachal Pradesh on June 29, 2017. The event was coordinated by Dr. D. P. Uniyal,
Senior Scientific Officer and Coordinator of NASI-UK Chapter, UCOST. Two sessions on
‗Climate Change: Causes & its Impact‘ and ‗Impact of climate change on agriculture &
mitigation measures‘ were conducted after the projection of a 3-D film entitled ‗SOS Planet‘.
143
Dr. Rajendra Dhobhal addressing the audience
ii. A Popular Lecture on Concept of Smart City was delivered by Shri Krishna Singh
Rautela, PPP Expert, Dept. of Planning, Govt. of Uttarakhand, the keynote speaker on the
occasion. He described the important key factors required for the creation of smart cities.
UPES faculties, officials from some departments and staff of UCOST participated in the
event. The event was coordinated by Dr. D. P. Uniyal, Senior Scientific Officer, UCOST.
Shri Krishna Singh Rautela delivering the lecture
iii. A lecture on Yoga, Science & Spirituality was delivered by Sri K P S Tomar, the founder
of Hiranygarbh Yogshala, Dehradun on July 16, 2017 at Vigyan Dham, UCOST. Sri Tomar
explained the scientific aspects of Yoga practices as well as the scientific perspective in the
development of Yoga. The event witnessed the presence of more than 75 participants
including a social group Been There, Done That (BTDT). Sri Lokesh Lohri, a veteran
Anthropologist & Heritage Activist and convener of the BTDT, shed light on conservation
of scientific heritage, including traditional knowledge system.
iv. A popular lecture on Global Warming: Causes, its impact on Himalaya and mitigation
measures was organized to mark the Himalaya Day on September 9, 2017. Around 144
participants joined the event coordinated by Dr. D. P. Uniyal.
v. A popular lecture on Alternative Energy Issues was delivered by Dr. Brijmohan
Sharma, Secretary of SPECS (a civil organization) at Vigyan Dham (UCOST) on October
9, 2017. The participants were also imparted Hands-on Training on LED Prepare & Repair
on this occasion. The programme coordinated by Dr. D. P. Uniyal, was attended by 102
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meritorious school students along with their escorts teachers and officials of Madhya
Pradesh Council for Science & Technology (MPCOST), Bhopal under its Mission
Excellence Program (giving a necessary exposure of growth & development in Indian
Scientific scenario the young minds), who visited RSC, Dehradun at Vigyan Dham
(UCOST) premises.
Hands-on Training on LED Prepare & Repair
11. Swachchta Pakhwada
The Regional Science Centre, Dehradun organized a Swachchta Pakhwada during November 1-
15, 2017 in joint collaboration with UCOST & NASI-UK chapter. A total number of 2087
registered visitors participated in various activities viz. Mass Swachchta Pledge, Sit & Draw
Contest, Signature Campaign etc. conducted by RSC.
A view of participants attending Swachchta Pakhwada
12. Brainstorming session
On the occasion of 18th
foundation day of Uttarakhand, a Brainstorming session on Industry-
Academia Interaction for Science and Technology Intervention for addressing local problems
was organized by UCOST & NASI UK chapter on Nov 9, 2017 at Vigyan Dham, Jhajhra,
Dehradun. The panel of experts included Dr. Rajendra Dobhal, Director General, UCOST, Shri
Rakesh Oberai, Chairman and Managing Director, Oberai Motors, Dehradun, Dr. S. S. Negi, Vice
Chairman, Uttarakhand Rural Development & Migration Commission and many distinguished
dignitaries from various departments. The session entailed an interactive discussion on Tourism
145
Policy of Uttarakhand, Wellness Tourism, Hydropower, Scope of Solar Energy, Livelihood,
Promotion of Small Scale Cottage Industry etc.
Dr. Rajendra Dhobhal interacting with the dignitaries
13. Celebration of International Science Center and Science Museum Day
The Regional Science Centre (RSC) organized a group discussion on ‗Community & Individual
involvement to take action on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDG)‘ to
observe International Science Center and Science Museum Day on November 10, 2017. The
event was jointly organized by UCOST and NASI-UK chapter. A total of 58 participants including
the students of Government Girls Junior High School, Harbertpur, their teacher escorts, general
visitors and RSC staff attended the program. An Open House Quiz based on the exhibits in various
galleries, was also organized for the participants on this occasion.
Open House Quiz underway
14. The 2nd
R. S. Tolia Memorial Lecture
The 2nd
R. S. Tolia Memorial Lecture was delivered by Shri Chandi Prasad Bhatt, a
distinguished environmentalist and the recipient of Padma Bhushan & Raman Magsaysay Awards,
on the occasion of International Mountain Day, celebrated on December 11, 2017, at Regional
Science City (RSC), Vigyan Dham, Dehradun. He spoke on ‗Himalaya: Sensitivity, Current Threats
and Challenges‘. The event was jointly organized by UCOST, NASI, SDFU (Sustainable
146
Development Forum Uttaranchal) & GBPNIHESD (G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan
Environment & Sustainable Development). Among the other dignitaries, Prof. A.N. Purohit,
Former Vice- Chancellor, HNBGU(Central), Shri Nrip S. Napalchiyal, Former Chief Secretary;
Smt Vibha Puri Das, Former Principal Secretary and Shri B. S. Burfal, Former PCCF
Uttarakhand also shared their view and enlightened the audience. More than 180 participants from
different colleges and UCOST staff participated in the program. At the end, Ms. Binita Shah,
Secretary, SDFU delivered the vote of thanks.
The dignitaries at RSC to observe the International Mountain Day
15. State Children Science Congress
The NASI-UK Chapter organized the State Children‟s Science Congress (SCSC) on the theme,
‗Science, Technology and Innovation for sustainable Development‘ on December 20, 2017 at
UCOST, Vigyan Dham, Dehradun. The event was jointly organized by UCOST and Society for
Pollution & Environment Conservation Scientists (SPECS) with support of NCSTC, NCSM,
SRHU, Oberai Motors, and Himalaya Drug Co. Ltd., Dehradun. A total of 130 school students
along with 27 escort teachers from all over the state participated in the sessions based on the themes
such as Food & Agriculture, Natural Resources Management, Disaster Management, Energy,
Lifestyle & Livelihood, Traditional knowledge System and Health, Hygiene & Nutrition. The
Inaugural Session was coordinated by Dr. D.P. Uniyal, Senior Scientific Officer, UCOST.
Participants of the State Children‟s Science Congress at RSC, Dehradun
147
16. NASI Best Teacher Award
The National Academy of Sciences (NASI), Uttarakhand Chapter and Uttarakhand State Council
for Science & Technology every year facilitate Best Science Teacher Award. This year the
committee recommended Mr. Manish Jaguri, Lecture of Biology, Saraswati Vidhya Mandir Inter
College, Chiniyalisaur, Uttarkashi for the NASI Best Teacher Award 2017 for his outstanding
contribution in the field of Science Popularization during the 12 State Science Congress.
Mr. Manish Jaguri receiving the NASI Best Teacher Award
Varanasi
The following activities were organized by the Chapter:
1. Workshop on Professional Skills:
i. Prof. D. K. Lahiri, Departments of Psychiatry and Medical and Molecular Genetics,
Neuroscience Research Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA
delivered a lecture on ‗Effective Communication and Scientific Writing‘ on January 5, 2018.
This was attended by research scholars and faculty members of BHU. Prof. Lahiri cited several
examples related to scientific communication and provided many tips for an effective writing
and impressive presentation.
ii. Prof. Michael J. Zigmond and Dr. Beth Fischer, University of Pittsburgh, USA, conducted a
workshop on ‗Carrying out research ethically and publishing results effectively‘ during March
6-8, 2018. This was attended by a large number of doctoral students and faculty members from
different institutes. They discussed about the formulation and implementation of a research
proposal. The ethical issues were addressed in details in the first session. The students were
148
exposed to the skill of scientific writing and communicating the manuscript to appropriate
journals and provided with several tips for effective scientific writing in the next session of the
workshop. The interactive session was also held successfully.
2. Hands-on Training/workshops:
i. An International Brain Research Organization Asia Pacific Region Neuroscience (IBRO APRC)
School was organized during April 1- 16, 2017 at Interdisciplinary School of Life Sciences,
Institute of Science, BHU, on ‗Epigenetic regulation of neuronal gene expression‘. The school
was attended by 23 participants from India and Asian pacific region (Iran, Malaysia) and 7 local
participants. Prof. M. K. Thakur, convener of the school, started the session by giving a brief
introduction about the theme followed by presentation of his lab‘s current research work. The
entire program was divided daily into three sessions. Lecture series by distinguished
neuroscientist from different reputed institutions was organized in the first session, hands-on
training on different epigenetic techniques in the second session and interaction with students was
held in the last session. The major techniques included Chromatin Immuno precipitation (ChIP),
Methylated DNA Immuno precipitation (MeDIP) followed by methylated DNA Bisulphite
conversion method to understand the underlying mechanism of gene regulation. At the end of the
day, interaction session between participants and invited dignitaries was held. This included
discussion about the current trends in neuroscience research, particularly the molecular and
cellular approaches to understand the brain functions, related disorders and their therapeutic
interventions by stem cells and role of epigenetics in neuronal development and its reversible
recovery methods in clinical diagnostics. Participants also learnt about the skills of writing
research papers and funding opportunities. Dr. Beena Pillai and Dr. Arpita Konar (IGIB, New
Delhi) shared their views how to bring basic science from bench to bedside by exploring the role
of MIRNA in neurogenesis. Prof. Vijayalakshmi Ravindranath (IISc) and Dr. T.R. Raju
(NIMHANS, Bangalore) emphasized the utilization of traditional system of medicine for the
development of therapeutic interventions in neurodegenerative disorders. Dr. Amul Sakharkar
(Savitribai Phule University, Pune), Dr. Nihar Ranjan Jana (NBRC, Gurugram), Dr. Arvind
Kumar (CCMB, Hyderabad) and Dr. Amit Mishra (IIT Jodhpur) discussed about the
implementation of epigenetic mechanisms specially chromatin remodeling to reverse the changes
at genomic and proteomic level specially in neuropsychiatric and neuro developmental disorders.
Dr. B.R. Das (Centre of Excellence in Molecular Pathology, SRL, Navi Mumbai) elucidated the
use of knowledge based basic training and its application in the molecular diagnosis and therapy.
Dr. Sanjay Gupta (Tata memorial center, ACTRAC, Mumbai) explained the mechanism
underlying the treatment and methods of cancer via epigenome route. The participants presented
their research work. Prof. S. Prasad, Prof. S.K. Trigun, Dr. Vijay Paramanik (Indira Gandhi
National Tribal University, Amarkantak) and Dr. S.T. Mani interacted with the participants and
shared their experiences. Thus, the School provided an opportunity to understand the current
scenario and challenges in neuroscience research as well as a golden opportunity for participants
to share their innovative ideas with experts in the respective field and improve their knowledge.
At the end of the School, all the participants formulated and presented a dream project based on
their training during this two weeks program.
ii. A Translational workshop on ‗Acute leukemia immuophenotyping, was conducted at
Interdisciplinary School of Life Sciences, Institute of Science, BHU during June 12-14, 2017.
The event provided a platform for both young and senior researchers to learn about different
aspects of acute leukemia immuophenotyping.
149
3. Guest Lectures: NASI-Varanasi Chapter organized the following Guest Lectures from April 1,
2017 to March 31, 2018:
S.N. Date Name of the Speaker with
affiliation
Topic of the Lecture
1. August 25,
2017
Dr. U.B. Pandey, University of
Pittsburg, USA
RNA Binding protein in motor
Neuron Diseases
2. November 10,
2017
Dr. H.S. Misra, BARC,
Mumbai
An alternate DNA damage
response mechanism in bacteria
that lacks LexA/RecA type
classical SOS response
3. November 17,
2017
Dr. G.C. Shukla, USA Disruption of oncogenic
transformation by miRNA
mediated fine tuning of the
tumor-promoting pathways
4. January 4, 2018 Dr. Debomoy Lahiri, School of
Medicine, Neuroscience
Research Centre, Indianapolis,
USA
Epigenetic Role in Alzheimer's
Disease - Learning from
Environment and Life style to
prevent Dementia
5. January 6,
2018
Dr. Amit Sharma, The Energy
and Resources Institute,
Gurgaon
Structural and dynamic studies of
bacterial photosynthetic protein
6. January 12,
2018
Prof. Subash C. Pandey,
Illinois at Chicago, USA
Emerging role of epigenetic
programming in anxiety and
alcohol use disorders
7. February 14,
2018
Prof. Ravindra N. Singh, RNA
Biology, Iowa State
University, USA
Discovery that made the first
FDA-approved drug for a leading
genetic disease of infants and
children
8. March 7, 2018 Prof. M.J. Zigmond, University
of Pittsburg, USA
Neurobiology of
neurodegenerative disease and
aging
Professional Skills Workshop: Participants attending the lecture
150
Professional Skills Workshop: Guest speaker receiving memento
Hands-on Training on „Acute Leukemia Immuophenotyping‟
IBRO-APRC School on „Epigenetic regulation of neuronal gene expression‟
151
15. Building & Dr. Sir Padampat Singhania Library
Building: The Academy is functioning in its magnificent building, which has an auditorium having a
capacity of about 200 persons, a Council Room, Committee Room, Rooms of the Office-bearers and the
office space. An Annexe Block has now been added to this, having space for the Singhania Library and
the Ganga Gallery. The office has networking with 2 MBPS Internet Port and National Knowledge
Network connectivity of NIC, New Delhi.
Library: The Library exchanges its publications with 23 organizations and is receiving 37 journals (23
of Physical Sciences, 14 Biological Sciences and 8 miscellaneous) from India and abroad in exchange
and/or gratis. 10 important journals and 10 scientific magazines are also being subscribed by the
Library. Library has 5555 bound volumes of journals including 700 journals of non-English languages
and 4216 useful books, excluding 781 books donated by Prof. M.G.K. Menon, 188 books donated by
Prof. V.P. Sharma, 279 books of Late Prof. A.C. Banerji, donated by his son Shri M.K. Banerji, 578
books of Late Prof. H.C. Khare donated by his wife Mrs. Mamata Khare.
During the period under report more than 100 new books have been added.
A section in the Library especially for science students of + 2 level has been maintained. A large
number of books have been donated by Prof. H.S. Mani, Late Prof. U.S. Srivastava, Prof. Chandrika
Prasad and others, besides those, which have been purchased. It is worth mentioning that a large
number of students visit the Library daily and find it useful.
As a new activity, Internet facility for educational purpose is also being provided to the students free-
of-cost.
152
Acknowledgements
We take this opportunity to thank all our Fellows and Members for their cooperation and useful
suggestions. We are particularly grateful to the President, Prof Anil kakodkar, and members of the
Council for their guidance; to Chief Editors (Prof. J.P. Mittal, Prof. Amit Ghosh and Prof. Girjesh
Govil, Managing Editors (Prof. S.L. Srivastava and Prof. U.C. Srivastava), and members of the
Editorial Boards of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India (Sections A & B) and
the Science Letters; also the referees, for their valuable suggestions and cooperation. We also record
our gratitude to the Secretary, DST; Director (AI Div.), DST and AS&FA, DST, New Delhi;we are also
thankful to M/s Amit Ray and Co., Chartered Accountants, Allahabad for auditing the Academy‘s
accounts. Lastly, we thank Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive Secretary, Shri A.K. Srivastava, Dy. Executive
Secretary, Shri B.P. Singh, Dr. Santosh Shukla and Dr. Pavitra Tandon, Assistant Executive
Secretaries, and all other staff of the Academy for their ungrudging assistance and cooperation in every
possible way.
153
Annexure I
Fellows Elected for the year 2017
1. AGRAWAL, Amit (b. 1974), PhD, FNAE, Institute Chair Professor, Mechanical Engineering
Department, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai - 400076
2. BALASINOR, Nafisa Huseni (b. 1960), PhD, Scientist F, Neuroendocrinology, National
Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR), J.M. Street, Parel, Mumbai - 400012
3. BHATTACHARYYA, Suvendra Nath (b. 1975), PhD, FASc, Principal Scientist & Head,
Molecular & Human Genetics Division, Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S.C.
Mullick Road, Kolkata - 700032
4. CHAKRABORTY, Supriya (b. 1969), PhD, FNAAS, Professor, Room No. 405/416,
Molecular Virology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, JNU, New Delhi – 110067
5. CHANDRA, Amalendu (b. 1963), PhD, FNA, FASc, Professor, Department of Chemistry,
Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur - 208016
6. CHATTOPADHYAY, Nitin (b. 1960), PhD, FASc, Professor, Department of Chemistry,
Jadavpur University, Jadavpur, Kolkata - 700032
7. CHOUDHURY, Deepankar (b. 1974), PhD, Professor, Department of Civil Engineering,
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai - 400076
8. CHOWDHURY, Rukhsana (b. 1958), PhD, Chief Scientist, Indian Institute of Chemical
Biology, 4, Raja SC Mullick Road, Kolkata - 700032
9. DATTA, Anindya (b. 1970), PhD, Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of
Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai - 400076
10. DE, Swades (b. 1969), PhD, FNAE, Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian
Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi - 110016
11. DHAR, Manoj Kumar (b. 1964), PhD, FNAAS, Professor/Director, School of Biotechnology,
University of Jammu, B.R. Ambedkar Road, Jammu – 180006
12. D'SILVA, Patrick Raymond (b. 1972), PhD, Associate Professor, Department of
Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012
13. DUMBALA, Srinivasa Reddy (b. 1971), PhD, Senior Scientist, Organic Chemistry Division,
National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune - 411008
14. EPPURATH, Soniya Vasudevan (b. 1955), PhD, Scientist EII, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for
Biotechnology, Thycaud (PO), Jagathy, Trivandrum - 695014
15. GALANDE, Sanjeev (b. 1967), PhD, FNA, FASc, Professor, Indian Institute of Science
Education and Research, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune - 411008
16. GHOSH, Sundargopal (b. 1968), PhD, FASc, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry,
Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Room No. 317, Chennai - 600036
17. JAIN, Subodh Kumar (b. 1958), PhD, Professor & Head, Department of Biotechnology, Dr.
H.S. Gour University, Sagar - 470003
18. JATKAR, Dileep Prabhakar (b. 1965), PhD, Professor, Harish-Chandra Research Institute,
Chhatnag Road, Jhunsi, Allahabad - 211019
19. JAYANANDA, Mudlappa (b. 1959), PhD, FASc, Professor, Centre for Earth and Space
Sciences,University of Hyderabad, PO Central University, Gachibowli, Hyderabad - 500046
20. JOSHI, Yogesh Moreshwar (b. 1974), PhD, FNAE, Professor & CV Seshadri Chair,
Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur - 208016
21. KALRA, Alok (b. 1959), PhD, FNAAS, Chief Scientist, Head, Crop Protection Division,
CIMAP, Lucknow -226015
154
22. KOLTHUR-SEETHARAM, Ullas (b. 1974), PhD, Associate Professor, Department of
Biological Sciences,Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Homi Bhabha Road, Colaba,
Mumbai - 400005
23. KOYAKUTTY, Manzoor (b. 1974), PhD, Professor, Amrita Centre for Nanoscience &
Molecular Medicine,Amrita Institute of Medical Science & Research Centre, AVVP University,
Kochi - 682041
24. KUMAR, Ajay (b. 1955), PhD, Professor, Department of Mathematics, University of Delhi,
Delhi - 110007
25. KUMAR, Lalit (b. 1957), MD, DM, FAMS, Head, Department of Medical Oncology, All India
Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi – 110029
26. MALHOTRA, Rajesh (b. 1962), MS, Professor & Head, Department of Orthopaedics, Room
No. 5036, 5th Floor, Teaching Block, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi -
110029
27. MISHRA, Om Prakash (b. 1966), PhD, DSc, Scientist F/DDG, Ministry of Earth Sciences,
Govt. of India, IMD Campus, Annexure EREC Building, Room No. 1 & 2, Lodi Road, New
Delhi - 110003
28. MISRA, Sudip (b. 1977), PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science &
Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur - 721302
29. MOHANTY, Bedangadas (b. 1973), PhD, FNA, FASc, Professor & Chairperson, School of
Physical Sciences & Dean, Faculty Affairs, National Institute of Science Education & Research,
Bhubaneswar, Jatni-752050
30. MONDAL, Tapan Kumar (b. 1968), PhD, Senior Scientist, ICAR-National Research Centre
on Plant Biotechnology, LBS Building, IARI Campus, New Delhi - 110012
31. NAIK, Prasad Anant (b. 1959), PhD, Outstanding Scientist & Head, Laser Plasma Division,
Laser R&D Block D2, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore - 452013
32. PANDEY, Arun Kumar (b. 1953), PhD, Professor, Department of Botany, University of
Delhi, Delhi -110007
33. PATEL, Bhisma Kumar (b. 1965), PhD, Professor & Head, Department of Chemistry, Indian
Institute of Technology Guwahati, North Guwahati - 781039
34. RAMASWAMY, Sriram Rajagopal (b. 1957), PhD, FNA, FASc, Professor, Department of
Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012
35. RANGAN, Latha (b. 1973), PhD, Professor, Department of Biosciences & Bioengineering,
Indian Institute Technology Guwahati, North Guwahati - 781039
36. RATH, Sankar Prasad (b. 1972), PhD, Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute
of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur - 208016
37. RAY, Samit Kumar (b. 1961), PhD, FNAE, Director, SN Bose National Centre for Basic
Sciences, JD Block, Sector III, Salt Lake City, Kolkata - 106
38. RAYCHAUDHURY, Somak (b. 1962), PhD, Director, Inter-University Centre for Astronomy
and Astrophysics, Ganeshkhind, Post Bag 4, Pune - 411007
39. SAHOO, Dinabandhu (b. 1961), PhD, Director, Institute of Bioresources & Sustainable
Development, Takyelpat, Imphal, Manipur - 795001
40. SARKAR, Sagartirtha (b. 1966), PhD, Professor, Department of Zoology, University of
Calcutta, 35, Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata - 700019
41. SAU, Apurba Kumar (b. 1970), PhD, Scientist VI, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna
Asaf Ali Marg, Delhi - 110067
42. SETH, Pankaj (b. 1968), MS, PhD, Professor & Scientist VI, Molecular & Cellular Neuro-
Science, Neurovirology Section, National Brain Research Centre, NH-8, Nainwal Road,
Manesar, Haryana - 122051
43. SHARMA, Deepak (b. 1957), PhD, Professor, 321, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru
University,New Delhi - 110067
155
44. SRINIVAS, Vasudevan (b. 1958), PhD, FNA, FASc, FTWAS, Distinguished Professor (J),
School of Mathematics, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Homi Bhabha Road, Colaba,
Mumbai - 400005
45. SUKUMAR, Raman (b. 1955), PhD, FNA, FASc, Professor, Centre for Ecological Sciences,
3rd Floor, Biological Sciences Building, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru - 560012
46. SUWAS, Satyam (b. 1969), PhD, Professor, Department of Materials Engineering, Indian
Institute of Science, Bangalore - 560012
47. TOMAR, Sushil Kumar (b. 1966), PhD, Professor, Department of Mathematics, Hans Raj
Gupta Hall, Panjab University, Chandigarh - 160014
48. UKIL, Anindita (b. 1975), PhD, Assistant Professor (Stage 2), Department of Biochemistry,
University of Calcutta, 35 BC Road, Kolkata - 700019
49. VALECHA, Neena (b. 1957), MD, FAMS, Director, National Institute of Malaria Research
(ICMR), Sector 8,Dwarka, New Delhi – 110077
50. VENKATARAMAN, Chandra (b. 1963), PhD, FNAE, Professor & Convener, IPCS,
Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai
– 400076
Foreign Fellows Elected for the year 2017
1. ANDERSON, Diana (b. 1940), PhD, Established Chair, Biomedical Sciences, The University
of Bradford,Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Richmond Road, Bradford,
West Yorkshire, BD71DP, UK
2. BRENNER, Dean E. (b. 1949), MD, Professor of Internal Medicine & Professor of
Pharmacology, 2150 Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor,
Michigan 48109-5930, USA
3. MIYASAKA, Hiroshi (b. 1957), PhD, Professor, Division of Frontier Materials Science,
Department of Materials Engineering Science, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka
University, Osaka 560-8531, Japan
4. NELSON, Karen Elizabeth, PhD, President, J. Craig Venter Institute, Head of Microbiome
Group, Human Longevity Inc., 9704 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
156
Annexure II
Scientists Selected for the Membership of the Academy for the
year 2017
1. Dr. Anil Kumar Singh, Senior Scientist, ICAR- Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology,
PDU Campus, IINRG, Namkum, Ranchi – 834010
2. Dr. Bijendra Singh, Director, ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, PB -1, P.O. Jakhni
Shahanshapur), Varanasi – 221305
3. Dr. Krishna Gopal Mandal, Principal Scientist (Agronomy), ICAR-Indian Institute of Water
Management, P.O. Rail Vihar, Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar – 751023
4. Dr. Manish Kumar Pandey, Scientist Groundnut Genomics, Centre of Excellence in
Genomics, Bld. No. 300, International Crops Research institute for the Semi-Arid Propics
(ICRISAT), Patancheru – 502324 Hyderabad
5. Dr. Tsering Stobdan, Scientist E, Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DRDO), Leh
Ladakh – 194101, Jammu & Kashmir,
6. Dr. Nisha Patro, Scientist, School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior –
474011
7. Dr. N.B. Maheswarappa, Senior Scientist, ICAR-National Research Centre on Meat,
Chengicherla, Bod Uppal Post, Hyderabad – 500092
8. Dr. Sathish B. Shivachandra, Senior Scientist, ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary
Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVED), Post Box 6450, Yelahanka, Bengaluru –
560064
9. Dr. Tanaya Chatterjee, DST Woman Scientist (WOS-A), Department of Biochemistry, Bose
Institute, 1/12, CIT Scheme VII M, Kolkata – 700054
10. Dr. Vahab Ali, Scientist E, Deputy Director, Department of Biochemistry, Rajendra Memorial
Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Agamkuan, Patna – 800007
11. Dr. Zhumur Ghosh, Assistant Professor, Bioinformatics Centre, Bose Institute, P-1/12, C.I.T.
Scheme, VII M, Kankurgachi, Kolkata – 700054
12. Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Singh, Professor, Department of Bioinformatics,Room No. 403, 4th Floor,
Science Block, Alagappa University, Karaikudi – 630004
13. Dr. Rajendra Singh Chauhan, Dean, Professor & Head, Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee
University of Information Technology, Waknaghat – 173234, Solan
14. Dr. Kishore Kumar Krishnani, Principal Scientist and Head, School of Edaphic Stress
Management, ICAR-National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, Malegaon, Baramati
(Pune) – 413115
15. Dr. Manu Lopus, Reader-F, UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of
Mumbai Kalina Campus, Santacruz East, Mumbai – 400098
16. Dr. Preeti Bajpai, Associate Professor, Department of Bioscience, Integral University, Dasuali,
Kursi Road, Lucknow
17. Dr. Shama Parveen, Assistant Professor (Biological Sciences), Centre for Interdisciplinary
Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Milli Islamia, New Delhi – 110025
18. Dr. Suparna Chatterjee, Professor, Department of Pharmacology, Institute of PG Medical
Education & Research, 244 B, AJC Bose Road, Kolkata – 700020
19. Dr. Sanjay Kr. Uniyal, Principal Scientist, High Altitude Biology Division, CSIR-Institute of
Himalayan Bioresources Technology, Palampur – 176061
20. Dr. Seema Mishra, DST Fast Track Scientist, Plant Ecology & Environment Science Division,
CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow – 226001
157
21. Dr. Nivedita Sharma, Professor (Microbiology), Department of Basic Sciences, Dr. Y.S.P.
University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan – 173230
22. Dr. C. Suresh Reddy, Professor, Department of Chemistry, S.V.U. College of Sciences, S.V.
University, Tirupati – 517 502
23. Dr. Ibrahim Ibnusaud, Professor of Organic Chemistry & Director, Institute of Intensive
Research in Basic Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, P.D. Hills, P.O. Kottayam, Kerala
24. Dr. Jayati Datta, Professor, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Engineering Science
and Technology, Shibpur, P.O. Botanic Garden, Howrah – 711103
25. Dr. Neeraj Agarwal, Reader F, UM-DAE, Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, Health
Center Building, Kalina Campus. Santacruz (E), Mumbai – 400098
26. Dr. Prabeer Barpanda, Assistant Professor, Materials Research Center, Indian Institute of
Science, C.V. Raman Avenue, Banagalore – 560012
27. Dr. Sidhanath V. Bhosale, Senior Scientist, Polymers and Functional Materials Division, CSIR-
Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad – 500007
28. Dr. Prashant Kumar Srivastava, Assistant Professor, Room No. 311, Block IV Department
of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Technology, Bihta, Patna – 801103
29. Dr. Anguraj Annamalai, Associate Professor, Department of Mathematics, PSG College of
Arts and Science, Coimbatore 641014
30. Dr. Abhilash, Scientist, MEF Division, CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur –
831 007
31. Dr. Ajay Kumar Singh, Associate Professor, Department of Physics, Indian Institute of
Technology, Kharagpur – 721302
32. Dr. Mayanak Kumar Gupta, Scientific Officer (E), Solid State Physics Division, Bhabha
Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai – 400085
33. Dr. Pankaj Kumar, Scientist E, AMS and Pelletron Group, Inter-University Accelerator
Centre, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, Post Box 10502, New Delhi – 110067
34. Dr. Sanghamitra Mohanty, President, Odisha Bigyan Academy, Plot No. B/2, Saheed Nagar,
Bhubaneswar – 751 001
35. Dr. Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Scientific Officer (E), Solid State Physics Division, Bhabha
Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai – 400085
36. Dr. Shyamal Chatterjee, Assistant Professor, Room 120, School of Basic Sciences, Indian
Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar, Khordha – 752050
37. Dr. Umesh Kumar Tiwari, Scientist, V-4 (Photonics), CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments
Organization, Sector 30 C, Chandigarh – 160030
38. Dr. Jitendra Kumar Pandey, Assistant Vice-President – Research and Development ,
University of Petroleum & Energy Studies (UPES), Bidholi, Dehradun – 248007
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Annexure III
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