SRM-AP All News
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- Conferred with the Award for Excellence in Enabling Research Environment (Science) May 29, 2023
SRM University-AP has been bestowed with the Excellence in Enabling Research Environment (Science) award at the 16th International Education Leadership & Skill Development Summit held at Hotel Shangri-La, New Delhi, on May 26, 2023. The award ceremony was organised by ASSOCHAM – National Council on Education. Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Dean-School of Engineering and Sciences; Dr Mahesh Kumar Ravva, Assistant Dean-Research; and Mr Pankaj Belwariar, Director-Communications, received the award from Shri. Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra, Chairman-ASSOCHAM – National Council on Education and Prof. Rajita Kulkarni – Co-Chairperson- ASSOCHAM – National Council on Education.
‘‘Our appetite for research and innovation is always ongoing, and such recognitions are huge fuel for the numerous discoveries that can happen at the interface of science and research. I am proud to say that we are involved in fundamental and pure research; inter-disciplinary and cross-disciplinary research; applied and translation research; innovation and entrepreneurship,’’ commented Honourable Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora in response to the award.
Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Dean-School of Engineering and Sciences, said SRM University-AP had created an incredible research ecosystem through a robust research infrastructure, laboratories, and research Centres of Excellence. ‘‘Being at the receiving end of such awards is a great honour for a nascent university. We are confident to make many more impactful innovations and contribute to the country’s development,’’ Dr Mahesh Kumar Ravva, Assistant Dean-Research, added.
SRM University-AP has 72 sponsored research and industrial consultancy projects with a total outlay of Rs. 28.11 Crores. Among the 128 published patents, 5 have been granted. The research environment is anchored by Eight Interdisciplinary Research Centres of Excellence. The faculty of SRM University-AP have been recently awarded 10 projects worth 2.50 crores from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB-SURE). The university has constructed two state-of-the-art research buildings to house more than 50 research laboratories and COEs. In another one-year time, the university will also have a research and industrial park on the campus. The varsity has developed into an ideal platform that vitalises intellectual exploration, diversity of perspectives, ingenious research advancements and inventive industry endeavours.
The summit was organised in the context wherein the use of technology coupled with innovation is potent to improve education, develop ingenuity, empower people, bolster governance, and stimulate the effort to achieve the human development goal for the country. ASSOCHAM is the oldest industry association serving the nation since 1920. ASSOCHAM bridges the industry and government on policy and regulations, ease of business and educational issues. The awards are being conferred in recognition of the significant efforts made by higher education institutions. Over 20 subcategories were awarded among the three main categories.
Continue reading → - DST SERB-SURE Grants Funding for Mathematics Project May 24, 2023
The Department of Mathematics is glad to announce that the project of Dr Sandeep Kumar Verma, Assistant Professor, titled “Investigation and development of wavelet transform and its applications in the framework of fractional Dunkl transform”, has been selected to be funded by DST, Govt. of India under SERB-SURE Scheme, securing an approved grant of 20.13 Lacs. Dr Sandeep Kumar Verma is the Principal Investigator of the project.
Title of the Project: Investigation and development of wavelet transform and its applications in the framework of fractional Dunkl transform
Approved Grant: 20.13 Lacs (As per university calculation)
Funded by: DST, Govt. of India under SERB-SURE Scheme
PI: Dr Sandeep Kumar Verma, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics
Project Summary: Dunkl operators are differential-difference operators associated with finite reflection groups in a Euclidean space. Dunkl transform is attracting widespread interest and giving us new perspectives on familiar topics from Harmonic Analysis and Partial Differential Equations. The fractional Dunkl transform (FRDT), which is introduced with one extra parameter, is the generalization of the well-known signal processing operations, such as the Fourier transform (FT), the fractional Fourier transform (FRFT), the Fresnel transform, Hankel transforms, fractional Hankel transforms, and the Dunkl transform. The FRDT will also find applications in the solution of optical systems, filter design, time-frequency analysis, and many others. The wavelet transforms (WT), which has had a growing importance in optics and signal processing, has been shown to be a successful tool for time-frequency analysis and image processing. It has found many applications in time-dependent frequency analysis of short-transient signals, data compression, optical correlators, sound analysis, representation of fractal aggregates, and many others.
The fractional wavelet transforms (FRWT) based on the fractional Fourier transform, which generalizes the classical wavelet transform, has proven potentially useful for signal processing, data compression, pattern recognition, and computer graphics. Thus, fractional wavelet transform gives more flexibility for time-frequency analysis than the usual wavelet transforms. As a generalization of the WT, a novel fractional Dunkl wavelet transform (FRDWT) can combine the advantages of the WT and the FRDT, i.e., it will be a linear transformation without cross-term interference and will be capable of providing multiresolution analysis and representing signals in the fractional domain. Simultaneously, compared to the Dunkl transforms, FRDT is more flexible for its one extra degree of freedom and can be used frequently in time-frequency analysis and non-stationary signal processing. Inspired by the fractional wavelet transform (FRWT), we introduce the concept of the (FRDWT), combining the idea of FRDT and WT. The proposed transform will not only inherit the advantages of multiresolution analysis of the WT, but also will have the capability of signal representations in the fractional Dunkl transform domain. Compared with the existing WT, the fractional Dunkl wavelet transform can offer signal representations in the time-fractional-frequency plane in the FRDT domain.
Continue reading → - Sikkim State Formation Day Celebrations at Raj Bhavan, Andhra Pradesh May 17, 2023
Raj Bhavan, Andhra Pradesh, witnessed celebrations of the 48th Sikkim State Formation Day on May 16, 2023. As per the invitation from the Raj Bhavan officials, Dr Ugen Bhutia, Assistant Professor of the Department of Liberal Arts ; Mr Pankaj Belwariar, Director-Communications; and Mr G Venugopal, Deputy Manager-Communications, met the Honourable Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Sri S Abdul Nazeer. The formation days of different States are being celebrated across the Raj Bhavans in the country to foster the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat and a greater cultural association between various States and Union Territories.
‘‘The Government of India, through Article 371(f), provides special protection and conservation to local communities and cultures in Sikkim. People of Sikkim are also going out of the state to pursue education and careers, and this is where the role of other States like Andhra Pradesh and higher education institutes like SRM University-AP becomes relevant”, said Dr Ugen Bhutia as he expressed his gratitude to the respected governor for providing the opportunity to speak about Sikkim on the auspicious occasion. He also commented on how SRM University-AP intends to bring in students and employees from Sikkim and other Northeastern States through various scholarship programmes. This contributes towards the national principle of unity in diversity and national integration.
Sikkim State Formation Day is celebrated on May 16 to commemorate the formation of Sikkim as the 22nd state of the Indian Union in 1975. The state is known for its rich ancient architectural marvels and is one of the essential and integral parts of India. Since merging with the Indian Union, Sikkim has witnessed growth both in terms of social and economic development. Sikkim delivered an exemplary performance in tourism and has established itself as one of the preferred tourist destinations attracting lakhs of tourists each year. In 2016, Sikkim achieved the status of an organic farming state in India. Sikkimese such as Bhaichung Bhutia, a former national football captain and Tarundeep Rai, an Olympian, have established themselves as national pride at the national and international levels. People from different walks of Sikkim participated in the State Formation Day celebrations and shared their views on Sikkim, one of the fastest-growing states in India.
Continue reading → - SERB- SURE Grants: 10 projects worth 2.50 crores awarded to SRM AP May 16, 2023
The faculty of SRM University-AP have been awarded 10 projects worth 2.50 crores from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB-SURE). Department of Science and Technology (DST) received a total of 2000 proposals, of which 466 were sanctioned. Among the 466 projects, 151 projects were awarded to Private Universities. Of the 151 projects approved to state private universities and colleges throughout India, the five-and-a-half-year young varsity was awarded 10 projects. 10 professors from various Science and Engineering Departments brought this incredible achievement to the university.
SERB-SURE is a research grant scheme initiated by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) in India to provide financial support to young researchers in the early stages of their careers. The grants are intended to support research in basic and applied sciences, engineering, and technology and is typically granted for a period of three years.The SERB-SURE scheme is one of several initiatives by SERB to promote scientific research in India and support the development of a strong research community in the country.
“It is a milestone achievement that resonates with the University’s unparalleled commitment for excellence. We are striving towards research-intensive learning to build cutting-edge innovation for a transformative tomorrow”, commented Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora. The Executive Director-Research of SRM Group, Prof. Narayana Rao said that, “SRM University-AP has travailed hard to achieve the world-class scientific temperament that we now advocate, and this achievement is a testimonial recognition of all our efforts.” The prestigious grants were sanctioned to the faculty in the on-going domains of Quantum Kinetic Approach, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Profiling and Changing of Hydroclimatic conditions in Bay of Bengal among 7 others.
Dean-SEAS, Prof. Ranjith Thapa said, “These research could be path-breaking and could offer a solution to many of the societal difficulties.” Prof. Jayaseelan Murugaiyan, Dr Sandeep Singh and Dr Pitchaiah Cherukuri of the Department of Biological Sciences; Dr Sabyasachi Chakrabortty, Dr V S Baswanth Oruganti of the Department of Chemistry; Dr Debabrata Pramanik, Dr Ravi Kumar and Dr Pankaj Bhalla of the Department of Physics ; Dr Sandeep Kumar Verma of the Department of Mathematics; Dr Uma Maheswar Arepalli of the Department of Civil Engineering; and Dr Kousik Das of the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering were awarded the grants.
Continue reading → - A Discourse on Multiscale Modelling of Complex Systems May 11, 2023
The Department of Physics, SRM University–AP organised the 8th lecture of the “Eminent Guest Lecture Series: An Odyssey of Physics” on May 10, 2023. Prof. Prabal K Maiti from the Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore visited the university campus and delivered a talk on “Multiscale Modelling of Complex Systems”. The seminar was held at colloquium level to motivate and encourage young undergraduates and graduates.
More than 60 participants attended the seminar across the disciplines and interacted with the eminent speaker. During his visit, Prof. Maiti also had one-to-one interaction sessions with the faculty members and research scholars. The speaker also enthusiastically interacted with many students informally over breakfast at the university mess hall. Dr Debabrata Pramanik from the Department of Physics coordinated the event with Dr Amit Chakraborty and with active participation from the research scholars, faculty members and supporting staff. Department of Physics plans to conduct more such events where eminent and distinguished scientists will visit the campus and encourage young talents.
- Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Oxide Layers and A method for Their Synthesis May 8, 2023
Researchers at the Department of Physics have successfully developed large-area ultra-thin 2D transition metal oxide (TMO) layers using a cost-effective and straightforward method through proximity evaporation under ambient conditions. Associate Professor Dr Jatis Kumar Dash and his students Shaik Md. Abzal, Kurapati Kalyan, and Sai Lakshmi Janga have secured a patent for their research in Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Oxide Layers and A method for their Synthesis (application no: 202241005220). They have integrated the 2D TMO layers with various other 2D materials to create nano-electronic devices. Their work demonstrates the immense potential of ultra-thin TMOs in 2D-material-based flexible electronics.
Patent Background
The two-dimensional (2D) ultrathin hetero-stacked layers show unusual physiochemical properties when reduced to a few atoms in thickness. These 2D heterostructures offer significant benefits for next-generation devices. Firstly, their atomically thin 2D nanosheets provide a larger surface area due to the complete exposure of surface atoms. Secondly, edge sites in 2D nanosheets are chemically more reactive than their basal planes, and open gaps allow for the intercalation of electrolyte ions. In addition, the high mechanical strength and flexibility at atomic dimensions make them suitable for use in next-generation wearable electronics. However, growing and stacking 2D materials is challenging, and existing growth tools are complex and costly.
Future Prospects
2D materials are critical for making flexible, wearable, foldable and transparent self-powered smart electronic devices. The next generation smart electronic devices will be
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made of 2D materials heterostructures which will need less operating power, fewer materials consumption and will have ultimate scalability. - Inculcating Social Awareness May 8, 2023
Saurvi and Indigo, Student-led communities of Directorate of Leadership, Innovation and Entrepreneurship had conducted a visit on April 19, 2023 to Vasavya Mahila Mandali (VMM) Vijayawada. Vasavya Mahila Mandali(VMM) is a non-profitable and renowned women organization working to transform the lives of women and children since its inception.The NGO has taken part in various activities and is known for its passion and commitment in building a society with happy families and human values.
Students of SRM University-AP visited the NGO as part of the Corporate Social Responsibility programme. The student-led communities are well-known for promoting leadership and entrepreneurial skills amongst the members and so, the visit proved to be highly motivating. The visit was an initiative by the Directorate to inculcate a sense of awareness and accountability amongst the students. 35 students along with faculty visited the NGO, and interacted with women entrepreneurs. They witnessed the tireless efforts that the social entrepreneurs make to better the lives of others. Interaction with the lesser privileged inhabitants at VMM was an eye-opening experience. Not only did the students learn of societal iniquity, but they also learnt of innovative solutions to these evils.
Students also got to learn about the workings of the startup ecosystem. The students also took a tour of the various centers inside the NGO. The visit to the center provided the students a better understanding of societal problems and helped them expand their horizons.
Continue reading → - One-Day Workshop on Powder X-ray Diffraction May 3, 2023
A One-Day Workshop on Powder X-ray Diffraction was conducted on April 28, 2023, by the Department of Physics in association with Malvern Panalytical, a division of Spectris Technologies. The workshop was intended to train users on the foundation of the X-ray diffraction technique in solids, the equipment’s hardware, data collection and analysis by software and advanced applications on thin-film and battery measurements.
More than 60 participants attended the workshop from eight different institutes, including SRM University-AP, VIT-AP, KL University, Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology & Research, PB Siddhartha College, VR Siddhartha Engineering College, Raghu Institute of Technology – Visakhapatnam and NIT Andhra Pradesh. Four members from the Panalytical team visited, and the experts, Dr Mangesh Mahajan and Dr Sandeep Nagar, presented technical presentations on the topics.
Advanced features of the HighScore Plus software application and in-situ Powder X-ray diffraction measurement on battery charge-discharge were vital highlights. The external members interacted with participants during the technical sessions and during X-ray diffraction laboratory demonstrations. Participants were awarded a certificate by the varsity and Malvern Panalytical.
Dr Pranab Mandal, Head of the Department of Physics and Mr Soumik Mahapatra from Panalytical coordinated the event. The workshop witnessed active participation from research scholars and faculty from the Department of Physics. The Department plans to conduct more events on advanced research techniques and hands-on training for young researchers.
Continue reading → - The 5 ‘I’s of UG and PG Education: Prof. Manoj K Arora at the Industry 4.0 India Conference May 1, 2023
Honourable Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora participated in Industry 4.0 India Conference organised by Employability.life in Delhi from April 25 to 26, 2023. At the Vice Chancellors Workshop on April 25, 2023, he emphasised the need to integrate education with skills and certification. He shared his experiences on how SRM University-AP is revamping the curriculum for all UG and PG programmes from 2023 to 24. The 21st-century skills, co-curricular activities, value education, community services, projects, internships, and field studies will be integral to the curricula, delivered through project-based learning and active learning.
Extending on this concept, during the panel discussion on Transforming Higher Education for India 2030 on April 26, 2023, he spoke about how SRM University-AP focuses on the 5 ‘I’s of UG and PG education. He proceeded to mention the 5 ‘I’s, such as Integrative Curricula where integration of research with teaching, integration of live problems from society and community in courses, integration of industry and international experts with faculty and integration of technology with teaching-learning processes; Interdisciplinarity where research is at the core as many discoveries happen at the border between disciplines, and therefore being borderless will be crucial for meeting the national challenges; Innovation that goes hand in hand with research leading to an entrepreneurial buzz on the campus; International Cooperation that becomes a necessity not only for high-quality research and innovation but for teaching and learning as well; and Inclusivity by involving global partners, the higher education community, industry partners, civil society, government departments and communities in the learning processes thereby promoting rightful intellect distribution.
Continue reading → - Delivered Lecture at the Two – day National Conference on Youth Development May 1, 2023
Dr Aehsan Ahmad Dar, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, delivered a lecture titled Impact of Childhood Adversity on the Mental Health of Young Adults in Kashmir at the Two – day National Conference on Youth Development held on March 24 and 25, 2023. Youth in the 21st Century: Prospects and Psychosocial Challenges was the theme of the conference, which was organised by the Department of Social Work and Department of Applied Psychology, Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development (RGNIYD), Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, in collaboration with ICMR – NIRT, Chennai.
Abstract of the Lecture
The study examines the impact of Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on mental health among young adults in Kashmir. A cross-sectional research design was followed to study the effect of ACEs on the mental health of Kashmiri youth by employing a multi-stage sampling method. Data were collected from 693 research participants who were studying in different colleges and universities in Kashmir, with the help of the Adverse Childhood Experiences scale and Mental Health Inventory (MHI-18). Findings revealed that various adversities during childhood, including psychological abuse, physical abuse, contact sexual abuse, household substance abuse, violent household treatment of mothers and fathers, household mental illness, and household criminal behaviour, had a significant impact on the mental health of Kashmiri youth in terms of increased anxiety, depression and loss of behavioural control and decreased positive affect.
Practical Implementation of the Findings
ACEs are traumatic events that individuals under 18 have experienced. Various individual, family, and community factors can affect a child’s likelihood of experiencing ACEs, and it causes long-term risks for mental health with the potential to carry over beyond the present generation. ACEs are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness, and adult risk-taking behaviours. There is a “dose-response relationship” between ACEs and health outcomes. Therefore, findings suggest advocating early targeted interventions to reduce ACEs and their impact on young people’s mental health in Kashmir. There is a need to design efficient measures, to enhance ACE resilience programs and ‘trauma-informed’ approaches to tackle the longer-term impact of ACEs on health and wellbeing.
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