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- A Study on Sustainable Organisational Development in the IoT Era January 30, 2024
Human capital plays a crucial role in shaping an organisation’s growth in today’s digital age. It’s the idea generated by the human capital that leads to innovation. Dr A Lakshmana Rao, Associate Professor, Department of Commerce, along with his research scholars Ms Sreya B and Mr Akhil Pasupuleti, conducted a comprehensive study on human resource management in the information technology sector of Kerala. Their research paper titled “Exploring Human Capital’s Role in Driving Sustainable Organisational Development in the Era of Internet of Things” focuses on 320 participants from Kochi Infopark and investigates the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) on their lives.Abstract
The Internet of Things (IoT), a network of interconnected devices and sensors linked through the Internet, facilitates the connection between individuals, their devices, and vast amounts of data. Within companies, the human resources department plays a crucial role in managing the pressure generated by various aspects, including marketing, development, and the application of IoT in human resources. This study is motivated by the need to understand the potential of IoT in strategic human resource management practices. To explore the fundamental strategic human resource management practices and assess their mediating effects, this research gathered data from 320 respondents in the Kerala information technology sector, specifically Kochi Infopark, consisting of both lower-level executives and senior managers. The study utilises statistical analysis to examine the relationship between sustainable human resource practices, the Internet of Things, and sustainable human resource growth. Furthermore, the study highlights the IoT’s role as a mediator between strategic human resource management practices and factors contributing to sustainable HR growth, demonstrating a positive impact of independent variables on dependent variables. These findings emphasise the potential for organisations to enhance HR practices, decision-making, and innovation using IoT during crises and uncertainties. Integrating IoT with SHRM empowers organisations to effectively manage challenges and complex environments.
Practical Implementation
a) Employee Monitoring Systems: Implement IoT-enabled employee monitoring systems using sensors and wearable devices. This allows organisations to collect data on employee activities, health, and work environments. Analysing this data helps identify patterns, optimise resource allocation, and enhance overall employee well-being.
b) Talent Management Solutions: Utilise IoT devices to gather data on employee skills, competencies, and training needs. This information is valuable for developing personalised training programs, creating career paths, and strategising succession plans. Integrating IoT into talent management aligns HR practices with evolving workforce needs, leading to improved satisfaction and retention.
c) Remote Work Solutions: In times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, leverage IoT-enabled remote work solutions. These solutions facilitate seamless communication, collaboration, and virtual team management. Integrating IoT with HR practices enables organisations to effectively manage remote workforces, maintain employee engagement, and adapt to challenging circumstances.
Social Implications
a) Improved HR Practices: Integrating IoT with HR practices enhances decision-making and fosters innovation. This, in turn, contributes to improved HR practices, ensuring that organisations are equipped to address contemporary challenges and complexities.
b) Employee Well-being: The use of IoT in employee monitoring systems promotes a holistic approach to employee well-being. Organisations can proactively address health and safety concerns, leading to a healthier and more engaged workforce.
c) Skill Development and Career Growth: IoT-driven talent management solutions contribute to individual skill development and career growth. Employees benefit from personalised training programs, creating a positive impact on professional development.
d) Crisis Adaptability: The integration of IoT in remote work solutions demonstrates organisational adaptability during crises. This not only ensures business continuity but also highlights a commitment to employee welfare in challenging situations.
e) Technological Advancement: Embracing IoT showcases an organisation’s commitment to technological advancement. This can enhance the organisation’s image, attracting top talent and positioning it as an industry leader.
Future Research Plans
In their upcoming research endeavours, the trio will focus on unlocking the bottlenecks of IoT-driven remote work dynamics and its influence on collaboration, productivity, and employee well-being in the post-pandemic context. They also plan on exploring the impact of interconnected devices on the moonlighting behaviours of employees and employment trends in IT firms and among professionals.
We wish the trio all success in their future endeavours.
Continue reading → - “A University That Resonates with the Nation”: 75th Republic Day Celebrations January 27, 2024
SRM University-AP celebrates the 75th Republic Day with a grand amalgamation of pleasure, pride and patriotism. Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Manoj K Arora unfurled the national flag commemorating India’s journey as a secular, social, republic and democratic nation. The celebration was also joined by the Panchayat secretaries of the neighbouring 5 villages – Neerukonda, Kanteru, Nidamaru, Kuragallu and Pedaparupudi who were felicitated by the Vice Chancellor and Dr Vinayak Kalluri, Dean – Academic Affairs. These villages have been adopted by the university to develop into smart villages through student projects and ventures.
“On this momentous day, let us remember the golden heritage of our nation and pay homage to the architect of our constitution, Dr B R Ambedkar. Let us strive towards achieving Viksit Bharat@2047 by channelling the energy and intellect of our youth into developing our nation and society and shaping students into global citizens“, said Prof. Arora as he addressed the campus community that had gathered to celebrate the auspicious day. The Vice Chancellor also emphasised the pivotal role of an educational institution in enlightening the students on constitutional rights and moulding them into reasonable and responsible citizens of the country. He also delivered a comprehensive report on the progress and growth of the university in one academic year highlighting the numerous achievements and recognitions secured by the students, scholars and faculty in academic, research, entrepreneurship and other frontiers.
The Republic Day celebrations commenced with an awarding ceremony where staff who had completed 5 years of service at the university were bestowed with a token of appreciation and gratitude. Students were awarded accolades for victories at various competitions at South Zone championships and Bravery awards were presented to security personnel and staff who rendered their service during calamities. A parade by the university security personnel paying tribute to the country and various cultural programmes by students resonating with patriotic fervour were highlights of the event.
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- UDL on Scientific Progress and Market Paradigms by Dr Girish Sahni January 27, 2024
SRM University-AP proudly hosted the seventeenth edition of the University Distinguished Lecture series on the topic “Scientific Progress to Grand Progression: Opportunities and Challenges in Science-to-Technology-to-Market Paradigms.” The event took place on January 25, 2024, and featured an enlightening address by Dr Girish Sahni, Former Director General of CSIR and Former Secretary of the Government of India.The lecture centered around the dynamic relationship between scientific progress and its translation into marketable technologies. Dr Girish Sahni shed light on the immense opportunities and challenges that arise in the process of transforming scientific advancements into tangible solutions for society. He emphasised the crucial role of imagination and concentration in fostering innovation, which ultimately leads to groundbreaking inventions. Dr Sahni’s thought-provoking discourse resonated with the audience, inspiring them to embrace curiosity and innovation in their pursuit of scientific excellence.
Following the lecture, an engaging Q&A session allowed the attendees to further explore the nuances of the topic and seek clarification on various aspects of science-to-technology-to-market paradigms. The interactive session fostered an environment of intellectual exchange and provided valuable opportunities for the audience to engage.
Reflecting on the significance of the University Distinguished Lecture, Prof. Manoj K Arora, Vice Chancellor of SRM University-AP, remarked, “The lecture by Dr Girish Sahni illuminated the critical role of scientific progress in driving grand progression. It highlights the opportunities and challenges that lie before us in translating scientific advancements into meaningful technological solutions that can benefit society at large”.
The event was skillfully moderated by Dr Sutharsan Govindarajan, Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences. Dr J P Rajapandiyan, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, expressed his appreciation for the enlightening lecture delivered by Dr Girish Sahni. He highlighted the significance of such platforms in fostering a culture of research and innovation within the university and beyond. Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Dean of Research, and Dr Vinayak Kalluri, Dean of Academic Affairs, presented a memento on behalf of the institution as a token of respect and appreciation for his esteemed presence at the seventeenth edition of the University Distinguished Lecture series.
This event stands as a testament to SRM University-AP‘s dedication to academic excellence and its ongoing efforts to provide students and faculty with enriching opportunities for intellectual growth and exploration.
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- Dr Ghanshyam Pandey Invited as Guest Speaker at BITS Pilani, Goa January 24, 2024
Dr Ghanshyam Pandey, an Assistant Professor at the Department of Economics, has been invited to deliver a talk on Risk Management and Sustainability on January 25, 2024, at the Department of Economics and Finance, BITS Pilani K K Birla Goa Campus.
Dr Pandey is a distinguished member of SRM University-AP’s teaching faculty and an accomplished economist with numerous publications to his credit. He has led several prestigious government-sponsored projects and is the Principal Investigator for the NABARD-sponsored project titled, “Tenancy and Credit: Exploring Facts below the Crust in AP”.
Continue reading → - A Scholarly Perspective on Incumbency to Dominance January 24, 2024
We are pleased to announce the publication of an insightful article titled “From Incumbency to Dominance: BJP’s Electoral Prowess in Madhya Pradesh,” in the prestigious ABDC-B journal, Economic and Political Weekly (EPW). This article, authored by Dr Vineeth Thomas, Assistant Professor in the Easwari School of Liberal Arts provides a comprehensive analysis of the BJP’s journey from being an incumbent party to establishing dominance in the state’s political landscape.Dr Thomas examines the factors that have contributed to the BJP’s electoral success in Madhya Pradesh, including the party’s organisational strength, leadership, and strategic alliances. The article also delves into the impact of various government policies and initiatives on the BJP’s electoral performance in the state.
Dr Thomas’s expertise in political analysis and his meticulous approach to the subject matter make this article a significant contribution to the scholarly discourse on Indian politics, particularly within the context of Madhya Pradesh. This research also enriches our understanding of contemporary political landscapes and aligns with our commitment to academic excellence.
Congratulations to Dr Vineeth Thomas for this impactful contribution to political scholarship!
Abstract
In the 2023 Madhya Pradesh Assembly election, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious with a landslide majority. This electoral triumph, characterised by a significant mandate for the BJP, has undoubtedly reshaped the political dynamics of Madhya Pradesh. The landslide victory underscores the party’s stronghold in the region and signals a decisive mandate for the BJP to govern the state for the designated term. In this context, this article analyses various strategic factors that cleared the BJP’s path from incumbency to dominance in Madhya Pradesh.
Explanation of Research in Layperson’s Terms
In the dynamic landscape of Indian politics, Madhya Pradesh stands as a crucible of electoral battles, where the ebb and flow of political tides have shaped the destiny of the state. At the heart of this electoral competition lies the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), an entity that has not only weathered the storm of time but has also evolved from being a political contender to establishing unwavering dominance in Madhya Pradesh.
The 2023 Madhya Pradesh Assembly election results revealed a clear mandate in favour of the BJP, securing an impressive 164 out of the total 230 seats. The overwhelming success is underscored by its triumph across different regions of the state. This comprehensive victory is particularly pronounced in the Malwa-Nimar region, which holds significant tribal populations. In this crucial area with 66 seats, the BJP secured a dominant 45 seats, leaving the Congress trailing with 20 seats, while the Bahujan Adhikar Party (BAP) clinched a lone seat. The BJP’s prowess is further evident in the Bundelkhand region, where it nearly swept the electoral landscape, securing 21 out of 26 seats, while the Congress was left with just five. Similarly, in the Vindhya region, the BJP emerged victorious in 25 out of 30 seats, leaving the Congress with a mere five. This regional dominance is a testament to the party’s strategic appeal and resonant policies. The saffron wave extended to Madhya Bharat, where the BJP outshone the Congress by winning a staggering 33 out of 36 seats (Malpani,2023). This substantial margin of victory indicates not only the party’s organisational strength but also its ability to connect with the electorate on a regional level.
So, how did the BJP complete the journey from a party in power to a political behemoth that has left an indelible mark on the state’s political canvas? A close examination in this regard unravels the fact that it is the conglomeration of clearly designed multiple tactics which gave the BJP a winning formula in the 2023 Madhya Pradesh assembly elections
Title of the Research Paper in Citation Format
Saravanan, Vineeth & Avunii, From incumbency to dominance. (2024, January 5). Economic and Political Weekly.
Practical Implementation/ Social Implications of the Research
Policy makers and politicians can make prudent decision about one nation one election
Collaborations
Electoral Politics, ethics, commonwealth
Future research plans
Indian govt and politics
Continue reading → - 1st Alumni Day: A Walk Down the Memory Lane January 23, 2024
The 1st Alumni Day of SRM University-AP, organised by the Directorate of Alumni Relations, was held in grand splendour on January 12, 2024. Alumni from near and far gathered at the campus with many attending the event virtually from all corners of the world. Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora launched the auspicious day by lighting the lamp in the presence of Registrar Dr R Premkumar, Advisor Prof. V S Rao, Head of Alumni Relations Dr Srabani Basu and the participating alumni. The Student Alumni Relations Committee (SARC) was also launched on this day, further aiming to strengthen alumni association and engagement.
“You are the founding batches that have sowed the seeds for our institute to grow and develop into a premier university. You, our alumni, are significant stakeholders of our institution and with your intellect and expertise, the varsity can grow exponentially”, stated Prof. Manoj K Arora while addressing the alumni. He also presented an extensive report on the stellar growth of the university since its inception on academic, research, and entrepreneurial frontiers, emphasising the rise of SRM University-AP, as a world-class university. Deans and associate deans of all schools also led a brief presentation on the school/s accomplishments, development and proposed plan of action for the next five years.
Pro-Chancellor, Dr P Sathyanarayanan, in his virtual address to the alumni gathered to celebrate the splendid day, commented, “A campus is the embodiment of the present students’ aspirations and the cherished memories of its alumni. The alumni are true reflections of what we aim to do as a new-age university”. Numerous alumni also exhibited their deepest appreciation and gratitude towards their alma mater that has shaped their future and moulded them into the leaders, entrepreneurs, engineers and executives they are today.
The Alumni Day successfully concluded with cultural programmes, games and activities catered for the alumni to relive their campus experience, cherish past memories and create new ones. The event is a testament to the university’s advancements in fostering a symbiotic relationship with its alumni that would help the institute reach the pinnacle of growth and excellence.
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- Predicting Biogas Production Using Time Series Algorithms January 23, 2024
With the advent of the climate crisis, the use of the latest scientific technologies to develop methods for sustainable energy usage is pivotal. Dr Karthik Rajendran, Associate Professor, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, his PhD scholar Mr Prabakaran G & UG Student Mr Nalluri Rishi Chaitanya Sri Prasad have filed and published a patent titled “A System and a Method for Building a Forecasting Model for Biogas Production” with Application No.: 202341074196, on their radical invention of predicting future biogas production using advanced Machine Learning techniques.
Abstract
The anaerobic digestion (AD) process poses challenges in maintaining process stability and time series-based prediction and forecasting due to the intricate nature of the system. Process instability is a consequence of the unpredictability in the raw material received at the facility, as well as temperature fluctuations and pH changes resulting from microbiological processes. Consequently, it is necessary to implement constant monitoring and control measures for higher biogas production. The challenges associated with anaerobic digestion (AD) systems can be effectively addressed through the integration of advanced machine learning (ML) algorithms and industry 4.0 systems within biogas facilities. This integration holds the potential to enhance system efficiency and enable on-site control capabilities. Machine learning (ML) based solutions have the potential to enhance process performance in AD facilities, leading to improved system operation and maintenance. The present study focuses on advanced ML techniques, specifically time series algorithms (ARIMA and SARIMAX), which have been employed to forecast daily biogas production. These algorithms are trained to discern critical process parameters and forecast daily biogas production rates, measured in Liters. For forecasting, 117 days of experimental data were used and ARIMA was identified as the best algorithm to forecast the daily production. This algorithm excelled not only in predicting biogas production but also in forecasting yield, resulting in a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 3.26. Furthermore, a comparison between the forecasted values of both ARIMA and SARIMAX was conducted. The predictive ARIMA model underwent statistical validation with unknown data, resulting in a P-value is >0.05.
Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms
This paper focuses on predicting future biogas production using advanced mathematical methods. The researchers used data collected over 117 days of biogas experiments, divided into three periods. They kept track of important factors like methane production, consumed volatile solids, methane percentage in biogas, and initial and final pH levels. To make the predictions more accurate, the researchers addressed missing data and fine-tuned certain parameters using a process called hyperparameter tuning. They wanted to find the best settings for the mathematical models they used, which are called ARIMA and SARIMAX. These models consider patterns and relationships in the data to make predictions. The researchers checked their models’ using measures like AIC and BIC values and examined certain plots to ensure they were getting good results. After applying the models to the data, they were able to predict future biogas production. The accuracy of their predictions was assessed using a metric called RMSE, and they found values of 3.26 for ARIMA and 24.02 for SARIMAX. In simpler terms, these values help us understand how close their predictions were to the actual values. The researchers also did some statistical analysis, and the results showed that both methods (ARIMA and SARIMAX) were equally good at predicting biogas production. Therefore, they concluded that these mathematical models are reliable tools for forecasting biogas production in the future.
Practical Implementation/ Social Implications of the Research
The integration of advanced machine learning (ML) algorithms and Industry 4.0 systems within anaerobic digestion (AD) facilities holds significant promise in addressing the challenges associated with process instability and unpredictability in biogas production. The utilization of ML techniques, particularly time series algorithms like ARIMA (AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average) and SARIMAX (Seasonal AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average with eXogenous factors), to forecast daily biogas production presents a practical solution to enhance system efficiency and control.
- Real-time Decision Making
- Reduced Operational Costs
- Understanding the Inflation-Unemployment Dynamics in Canada January 22, 2024
The rate of inflation has been termed to be directly proportionate to economic activity, with the increase in economic activity leading to higher levels of inflation. Central Banks have used this relationship to formulate interest rates and understand the inflation–unemployment dynamics in many countries. Dr Adviti Devaguptapu, Assistant Professor from the Department of Economics, has published an interesting study in her paper titled “Phillips Curve in Canada: A Tale of Import Tariff and Global Value Chain”, where she examines the relationship between inflation-economic activity in Canada to better understand the correlation between inflation and unemployment rates.
Abstract
The paper examines the Phillips curve for Canada from June 1976 to October 2022 in a time-varying manner. The findings reveal that the impulse response of inflation to the changes in the unemployment rate gap has reduced over time till 2010 and strengthened thereafter. The response of inflation to the changes in the unemployment rate gap has increased in short and medium horizons after 2010. On further examination, it is found that the changes in both average import tariff and forward participation in the global value chain have reduced the inflation response to the changes in the unemployment rate gap.
Social Implications of the Research
Inflation-targeting central banks should have to put more (less) effort into achieving price stability in the medium run when the change in the level of inflation to the changes in the unemployment rate gap is more (less).
Dr Adviti’s research works towards developing quality-adjusted inflation in India – the need for it and the challenges in recording it.
Link to the article
Continue reading → - AESEE 2024 Receives Grants from the Ministry of Jal Shakti January 22, 2024
The Department of Environmental Science and Engineering is thrilled to share the exciting news regarding its upcoming 1st International Conference on Advances in Environmental Sustainability, Energy, and Earth Science (AESEE 2024). The Department of Water Resources, River Development, & Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD & GR), the Ministry of Jal Shakti, have generously sanctioned Rs. 5 lakhs to support this groundbreaking event.
The International Conference scheduled to take place from March 14 – 16, 2024 aims to explore innovative advancements in science and technology while promoting inclusive growth across various sectors. This collaborative approach between environmentalists and the academic community will ensure a sustainable future.
The financial grant sanctioned in this regard underscores the importance of AESEE 2024 and highlights the commitment of the Department to advancing knowledge in the field. AESEE 2024 promises to facilitate meaningful discussions, bringing together diverse stakeholders to contribute to a more sustainable and interconnected future.
Continue reading → - NSS Cell Illuminates Women on Menstrual Hygiene January 11, 2024
In a dedicated effort towards community welfare, the NSS Cell of SRM University-AP orchestrated a transformative awareness session on Menstrual Hygiene for rural women. Delivered by our esteemed University Counsellors, the session aimed to empower and educate women from nearby villages on essential menstrual hygiene practices.The engaging session delved into addressing the challenges faced by these women and dispelling myths surrounding menstruation. Harnessing the power of videos and captivating story narrations, the University Counsellors brought forth crucial information to raise awareness about this natural biological process.
Despite menstruation being a universal phenomenon, many rural women grapple with inadequate knowledge and resources, resulting in health complications, social stigma, and daily life limitations. The NSS Cell’s initiative sought to bridge this knowledge gap and provide practical insights.
Despite menstruation being a universal phenomenon, many rural women grapple with inadequate knowledge and resources, resulting in health complications, social stigma, and daily life limitations. The NSS Cell’s initiative sought to bridge this knowledge gap and provide practical insights.Through impactful story narrations, the session aimed to instill a sense of empowerment and confidence among the women, enabling them to manage menstruation with dignity. The Counsellors addressed prevalent myths surrounding menstruation, fostering an environment of openness, and understanding to eliminate social stigmas. Utilizing the visual medium, informative videos were showcased to provide a comprehensive understanding of menstrual hygiene practices. The overarching goal of this initiative was to ensure that every woman, irrespective of her background, gains access to vital information and resources for a healthier, stigma-free life.
SRM University-AP remains committed to its role as a catalyst for positive change, uplifting communities, and fostering holistic well-being.
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