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- 88th Annual Meeting of Indian Academy of Sciences begins at SRM University-AP November 7, 2022
The 88th Annual Meeting of the Indian Academy of Sciences began on Friday, November 04, 2022, at SRM University- AP. The event, which spans three days, features distinguished fellows and associates of IASc and renowned Professors from premier institutions across the country. Prof. Umesh V Waghmare, President of the Indian Academy of Sciences, inaugurated the Annual Meeting with his presidential address on “Instabilities of crystals and their functional properties”.
Prof. Waghmare’s lecture revolved around the usage of fundamental laws of Physics in identifying instabilities in crystals. It also acquainted the audience with how these fundamental concepts hold supreme importance in the development of predictive models that capture interactions between the instabilities and external forces to predict the material-specific functional behaviour of advanced materials. The noteworthy remarks were Illustrated with crystal instabilities of polar phonons, spin-ordering, and strain that drive the functional properties of ferroelectrics, antiferromagnets, and shape memory alloys, respectively.
In his welcome speech, Prof Manoj K Arora, Vice-chancellor of SRM University- AP, requested the fellow and associate members of IASc to encourage and instil their unwavering admiration and inclination for research and development into the faculty of educational institutions. He also expressed his concerns about how science and technology are instructed to students in classrooms; considering the enthusiasm and genuine yearning for innovations; it should evoke among students to retain the potential for constructive explorations in ages to come.
“The things that kept an organisation like ISRO going beyond human imaginations and expectations is the solemn belief in themselves, the teamwork and the right sublime combination of the wisdom of past generations and the innovative outlook of the young generation”, stated Prof D Narayana Rao as he expressed his immense acclamation towards the institutes that constitute to the research and development of the country. He also asserted why discovering basic science matters or should be appreciated as they might get transformed into the theories of tomorrow. He also added that the scientific community is destined to live up to the responsibility and highlighted the need to upgrade intellectual and material prosperity. He also emphasised that educational institutions are the backbone of research and development in a country, and there are eccentric career opportunities for the youth in the coming years.
Pro-Chancellor of SRM University- AP, Dr P Sathyanarayanan, thanked IASc for believing in the university’s calibre to be a host and a part of the initiative. He said that he is expecting around 10000 students to benefit from the event. Furthermore, he elaborated on the potential of industry and academia coming together for the improvement of research and development of the country.
The inauguration was followed by a special lecture on “Uniqueness of plant mitochondria: Relevance to crop improvement and climate change” by A S Raghavendra, University of Hyderabad. Swagata Gupta from IIT Kharagpur chaired the lecture. The session concentrated on the distinct features of plant mitochondria that set them apart from animal mitochondria. The speaker elaborated on how mitochondrial metabolism can help plants to adapt to climate changes in terms of flooding, global warming, and elevated CO2.
Afternoon sessions started with lectures by fellows and associates and were chaired by K Bhanu Sankara Rao, University of Hyderabad. The first lecture by Dr D B Ramachary, University of Hyderabad, on the “Discovery of sustainable organocatalytic reactions: Expansion of substrate/catalysts scope”. Discussed the discovery of in-situ generated novel reactive primary catalytic species. The session also focused on their direct applications in a variety of selective green bond formations to furnish the chiral functionalised molecules, drugs, drug-like molecules, natural products, and pharmaceuticals. The second speaker Aditya Bandyopadhyay from IIT Kharagpur talked about “Electrified fluid interfaces- Waves and pattern formation”. He detailed how Interactions of electric fields at the interface of two fluids can lead to particle agglomeration at interfaces, as applied to DNA motion at the interface of two aqueous solutions.
The second speaker Aditya Bandyopadhyay from IIT Kharagpur talked about “Electrified fluid interfaces- Waves and pattern formation”. He detailed how Interactions of electric fields at the interface of two fluids can lead to particle agglomeration at interfaces, as applied to DNA motion at the interface of two aqueous solutions.
The special lecture was followed by a Symposium on Green energy. Dr Ranjit Thapa, Associate Dean- Sciences, SRM University- AP, introduced the symposium that provided a deep understanding of hydrogen generation, hydrogen fuel cells, and beyond hydrogen. Dr Ashok K Ganguli, IIT, New Delhi, handled the first session of the symposium on “Photoelectrochemical water splitting for green energy”. The key process of converting water into clean and renewable hydrogen fuel by using highly efficient photocatalysis was discussed. Furthermore, the session also underlined the growing interest in suitable semiconductor materials as photocatalysts for efficient photoelectrochemical water-splitting applications. The transformation needed to achieve the goals of the Paris agreement, the necessity of renewable energy, the difference between clean, green, and renewable energy, photocatalysis, and many more interesting areas were covered during the lecture. The next lecture on “Low-carbon biohydrogen: Enabling through biorefinery” was delivered by S Venkata Mohan, IICT Hyderabad, and was followed by another talk on “Electrochemical energy systems: Hydrogen generation and its use in fuel cells” by S Sampath, IISc, Bengaluru. The symposium came to a close with the lecture of Ramendra Sundar Dey, Institute of NanoScience &Technology, Mohali, on “Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction for the synthesis of ammonia: A pathway to a green future”.
All the sessions were followed by meaningful discussions and dialogues with distinguished participants. IASc Secretaries Prof Renees Borges, Prof. Vijay Mohanan Pillai, Treasurer Raghunathan V A and many other dignitaries from the Indian Academy of Sciences, Bengaluru and SRM University-AP, Andhra Pradesh, were present at the sessions.
Read more about the public lecture of P Sainath
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- Governor Shri Biswabhusan Harichandan inaugurated ISRO & DAE Exhibition in SRM University-AP November 6, 2022
“The societal expectations from science and technology are increasing. Thus, the scientific community has the responsibility to rise to the expectations” said Hon’ble governor to the intellectual gathering.Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Biswabhusan Harichandan inaugurated the Science and Technology Exhibition, by ISRO and DAE, at SRM University-AP, Andhra Pradesh, on November 03, 2022. The exhibition, organised as a prelude to 88th Annual meeting of the Indian Academy of Sciences, will be open till November 06 on the campus.
“It is known that science and technology are the established currency of the geo-political world. Any country that has made advances in prosperity has invariably depended on science and technology”, remarked Sri Biswabhusan Harichandan addressing the science and technology enthusiasts from all over the country. He reiterated Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of the nation – “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan”. He further said that “a developed nation is one that has the capacity for wealth, literacy, high quality of life and national security . This is your country, be proud of it, go ahead and our great ambition of Athmanirbhar will be fulfilled through each one of us”, to the audience of school students came from different parts of the state to attend the exhibition.
Addressing the gathering, Prof Umesh Waghmare, President of the Indian Academy of Sciences (IASc), emphasized that the important mandate of IASc is to uphold the cause of progress and to connect with society through the domain of science and technology. “I am really excited to associate with the students through the exhibitions and meetings organised at SRM AP”, he added.
Prof Manoj K Arora, Vice Chancellor of SRM University- AP, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the achievements of the university in the past five years. Pro-Chancellor, Dr P Sathyanarayanan emphasised the impact of Campus Social Responsibility for the progress of the country. “It is our proud privilege to host the 88th Annual Meeting of IASc at our university campus”, he added. Pro Vice- Chancellor, Prof D Narayana Rao highlighted the achievements of Indians trained in the Athmanirbhar India. He lauded the proactive application of science and technology and the insatiable quest for research and development in the areas of national priority such as world-class communications and remote sensing satellites.
Dr. Pola Bhaskar IAS, Commissioner of Collegiate Education; SRM AP Registrar and many other dignitaries from Indian Academy of Sciences and State and Central government were present on the inaugural function.
Around 1000 students from different schools across the state participated in the first day of Science and Technology Exhibition. The exhibition aims to be an engaging and invigorating platform for students from various regions.There are demonstration models of rocket energy, space research, and nuclear technology, interactive videos on the evolution of technology in ISRO and DAE, and meetup with renowned scientists and technologists. Participants can converse with eminent scientists and researchers on their pathbreaking research works. Apart from the pioneering research models, the exhibition proffers a brief account of various career opportunities at ISRO and DAE. The exhibition will last for the next four days and will be open to the participants free of cost.
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- ‘The modern Kautilya of India’: Dr C Rangarajan on India’s economic development October 29, 2022
The fifteenth edition of University Distinguished Lecture series on the topic “India at 75 and beyond”, was held on October 29, 2022 to celebrate the magnificent growth displayed by India. The session was addressed by Dr C Rangarajan, renowned economist and former Governor of Reserve Bank of India. The intense and inspiring lecture highlighted the importance of reflection on the past and articulation of our vision for our future to enable rapid progression on economic development.Dr C Rangarajan gave a comprehensive outlook on the economic performance of India since independence. “India has made momentous progress on reducing multidimensional poverty. The incidents of multidimensional poverty were almost reduced by half to almost 27.5% during 2005-06 and 2015-16 period due to deeper progress among the poorest. Thus within 10 years, the number of poor people in India fell by more than 270 million, a truly massive achievement,” he stated during the lecture.
Dr Rangarajan further expounded on the importance of reform agendas and measures, the subsisting triad of economic policies and the future challenges of progressing into being a developed nation. The lecture was followed by a Q & A session moderated by Dr S Ananda Rao and Dr Erra Kamal Sai Sadharma from the Department Economics.
Prof Kamaiah Bandi, Dean-School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences applauded Dr Rangarajan on being a unique distinction of shaping and motivating five generations of intellectual cohort. “Dr C Rangarajan has successfully brought down the gap between theory and practice in his capacity as Governor of RBI and various other important positions he has held for our nation. We as SRM AP look forward to your remarkable experience and knowledge to incubate motivation in our students.”
SRM University-AP has actively promoted a cumulative intellectual ecosystem and interdisciplinary education. “The principal objective of the University Distinguished Lecture series is to impel research scholars, students from all around the world to undertake progressive measures for the holistic development of our nation”, said Honourable Vice Chancellor, Prof Manoj K Arora in his welcome address.
Prof D Narayana Rao, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, SRM University-AP concluded the event by addressing Dr C Rangarajan as ‘the modern Kautilya of India’ and presented a memento on behalf of the institution as a token of respect and appreciation for his esteemed presence at the fifteenth edition of the University Distinguished Lecture series.
Continue reading → - The security strength of an improved optical cryptosystem October 28, 2022
In the last few years, due to the enormous development in communication technology, the sharing, and transmission of information have increased immensely. The information can be transferred in various forms, such as text, audio, video, and images. Mostly, the information or data is transmitted through open channels, which increases the possibility of illegal interception, fabrication, and modification of the original information. Thus, to avoid unauthorised access or alteration of data, the development of secure transmission systems is very important.The latest research from the Department of Physics evaluates the security strength of an improved optical cryptosystem based on interference. Assistant Prof Dr Ravi Kumar has published a paper, Security analysis on an interference-based optical image encryption scheme, in the Applied Optics journal, with an impact factor of 1.905.
Dr Ravi Kumar’s research is focused on the area of optical information processing and optical metrology. He studies and designs new optical cryptosystems with enhanced security features. For that, he uses various optical aspects and techniques, such as interference, diffractive imaging, polarization, computational imaging, etc. Alongside this, he also works in the area of digital holography and incoherent imaging. In this, he designs and develops new optical systems for imaging applications, such as super-resolution imaging, biomedical imaging, 3D imaging, telescopic applications, object detection, reconstruction, etc.
Explanation of the Research
Optical systems have been studied extensively for image encryption and found to be more reliable and efficient than their digital counterparts, such as parallel processing, capable of processing 2D data, multi-parameters capabilities (i.e., phase, wavelength, polarization, etc.), and can be employed as the security keys. The usage of biometric authentication in daily life, credit cards, fingerprint authentication, email/bank passwords, etc.; all need to be secured. This research can play an important role in designing a sophisticated cryptosystem for future technologies. Moreover, another direction of the research i.e., optical imaging, can be translated to design new low-cost biomedical devices (endoscopes, microscopes, biomedical sensors, etc.) which can have a significant social impact.
In the future, Dr Ravi Kumar will be focusing on the development of a new robust optical cryptosystem and designing new attack algorithms for existing optical encryption techniques. Additionally, he is also designing new optical imaging systems with better signal-to-noise ratios and improved resolution.
Abstract
In this paper, the security strength of an improved optical cryptosystem based on interference has been evaluated. The plaintext was encoded into a phase-only mask (POM) and an amplitude mask (AM). Since the information of the plaintext cannot be recovered directly when one of the masks is released in the decryption process of an improved cryptosystem, it seems that it is free from the silhouette problem. However, researchers found that the random phase mask (RPM) that served as the encryption key is not related to the plaintext; thus, it is possible to recover the RPM firstly using the known-plaintext attack (KPA). Moreover, the POM and the AM generated in the encryption path only contains the phase and amplitude information, respectively; thus, these can be utilised as additional constraints in the proposed iterative process. Based on these findings, researchers have demonstrated two new kinds of hybrid attacks to crack the cryptosystem, i.e., a KPA and an iterative process with different constraints. To the best of our knowledge, it was the first time that the existence of a silhouette problem in the cryptosystem under study had been reported. Researchers have validated their attacks through numerical simulation.
Collaborations
Dr Xiong Yi, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- AKAP-IoV: Facilitating an intelligent transportation infrastructure October 27, 2022
Intelligent transport systems embedded with latest technology is the future of automotive industry and can revolutionise the very infrastructure and architecture of transportation. The principles of intelligent transportation systems have manifested in the development of Internet of vehicles (IoV), a novel technological network that enables autonomous and connected mobile commutation facility. Dr Sriramulu Bojjagani, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, has published a paper on this seminal topic titled “Secure Authentication and Key Management Protocol for Deployment of Internet of Vehicles (IoV) Concerning Intelligent Transport Systems” in the prestigious journal, IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transport Systems (Q1 journal) having an Impact factor of 9.551. The paper highlights the development and significance of the pioneering AKAP-IoV system in successfully tackling cyber threats and security vulnerabilities.Abstract
Intelligent transport systems amalgamated with advanced technologies are an important element of the automotive industry, including critical infrastructure and transportation. Internet of Vehicles (IoV) is the modern technological framework designed for intelligent transportation. IoV creates a network of information relations among vehicles, thus contributing to reduced congestion, roadside infrastructure, driver/traveller safety, and traffic efficiency through wireless communication and sensing technology. However, a significant challenge in IoV applications is security, as criminals could potentially exploit these applications. Despite increasing industry awareness, the potential danger posed by security vulnerabilities and cyber threats remains high. In this study, we have designed a new system called AKAP-IoV, which supports secure communication, mutual authentication, and key management among vehicles, roadside units, and fog and cloud servers. AKAP-IoV was tested and verified using Scyther and Tamarin to ensure its resistance to cyber threats. Furthermore, we conducted a formal security analysis using the Real-or-Random (RoR) oracle model to assess security properties logically. In addition, a detailed, comprehensive comparative study was considered to evaluate the performance, functionality, efficiency, and security features supported by AKAP-IoV compared to those of recently developed schemes.
Continue reading → - Study on C and N dynamics in response to climate change October 25, 2022
Tropical forests are the breathing lungs of the world that work as a collective to stabilise climate by absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide. Covering over 12% of Earth’s total land surface. It functions as a harbour for evolution and supplying prerequisite rainfall for healthy vegetation. Recent global climate changes have catalysed drastic effects on the tropical forests and the healthy functioning of the same. A critical understanding of the present state of forest ecosystems is crucial for undertaking necessary measures to prevent further degradation.Recently, the project entitled Assessment and modelling of carbon and nitrogen dynamics in tropical forests of Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh in response to climate change, has been sanctioned to Dr Javid Ahmad D, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Science by DST – SERB (Science and Engineering Research Board), Govt of India, with a total outlay of Rs. 28.54 lakhs. Dr Javid Ahmad D is the principal investigator of the project.
A complete dataset on long-term dynamics in vegetation, the C and N generated for different tropical forest types in the Eastern Ghats landscape would serve as a baseline data for forest managers and policy-makers. The project aims to gain insight on the response of these tropical forests to changing global climate in relation to multiple factors (elevated CO2, increased temperatures and altered precipitation).
Continue reading → - Cherishing the festival of lights: Diwali at SRM University- AP October 25, 2022
When it comes to celebrations, SRM University- AP lives it up every single time. The staff and faculty of the institution gathered at APJ Abdul Kalam Auditorium on October 23, 2022, to light up the festival of decked-up lamps, Diwali. Honourable Vice Chancellor, Prof Manoj K Arora, Registrar, Dr R Premkumar, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion to elevate the fete spirit.Festivals are a great way to bring people together and rejoice in the euphoria. Several games, such as relay, modern athletics, musical chair, Chinese whisper, and ramp walk, were arranged for the staff and faculty who came in ethnic wear to take part in the grand celebration. The staff members actively participated in the events and showed their determination to win every game, no matter what. It was indeed a day full of unbothered laughs, frenzy music, cheerful games, and good vibes.
Continue reading → - Youth empowerment and skill development programme concluded October 18, 2022
The Department of Computer Science and Engineering at SRM University-AP commenced a one-month-long programme on “Youth Empowerment and Skill Development”. The programme, organised under the ISR activities of the university, was an exclusive initiative for young people living in vicinal rural communities. The sessions aimed to enhance and develop their technical and computing skills to augment their possibilities for a better livelihood.
90 youths were given training on programmes and applications like Microsoft office and Frontend Tools for Web Development. The programme received an overwhelming response from around fifteen neighbouring villages. The young community from the villages; Mangalagiri, Pedavadlapudi, Kaza, Neerukonda, Lemalle, Navuluru, Kuragallu, Velagapudi, Nekkallu, Chiraravuru, Kanteru, Pedaparimi, Yerrabalem, Mandadam, and Sibiram; participated in the training programme.
Assistant Professors of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Dr Dinesh Reddy and Dr Mahesh Kumar, were the chief resource persons for the programme. Classes were held from August 29, 2022, to September 28, 2022, at the university premises. The valedictory function was conducted on October 13, and certificates were issued to the participants who had successfully completed the programme. Prof Manoj K Arora, Vice-Chancellor and Prof T Ragunathan, Associate Dean-in-Charge (Engineering) – School of Engineering and Sciences, were also present on the occasion.
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- A champion in the making! October 17, 2022
Mastering martial arts is not an easy feat as it demands an exorbitant amount of effort from our physical as well as mental capability. Truly excelling in a martial art form can only be achieved through the manifestation of hardwork, perseverance and unwavering willpower. The Department of Computer Science and Engineering is proud to announce that Ms Bala Ramya Sri Yerramreddy has been selected for the Wushu Championship at the 36th National Games, 2022.
Ms Bala Ramya had previously secured gold at both District and State Level Wushu competitions. Through her journey, she has exhibited strong willpower and dedication to reach these heights. She encourages students to pursue any field of sports or martial arts to attain a peaceful mental constitution as well as physical well-being. Martial arts also equips one with self-defence techniques against physical conflict.
Wushu, an ancient form of hard and soft Chinese martial arts, trains students with superior combat skills for self-defence and promotes sound mental and physical health. One is truly robust only with a healthy balance between well-tuned mind and body.
Her journey to the National Games 2022 representing the state of Andhra Pradesh is awe inspiring and an accomplishment of incredible pride.
Continue reading → - Paving the pathway for higher studies abroad October 14, 2022
The Directorate of International Relations and Higher Studies organised international education fairs on October 12 and 13, 2022, to introduce students to the vast opportunities of abroad learning at top-notch universities. Global Education Fair 2k22, conducted in collaboration with IVY Overseas, featured premier universities across the UK, the USA, Canada, and Australia, and Overseas Education Fair 2k22, partnering with AECC Global, acquainted students with the leading universities in the UK and the US.
An extensive array of universities, including the James Madison University, University of South Alabama, University of Hartford, Manhattan College, etc., participated in the education fairs and notified students of the numerous programmes available across the disciplines such as engineering, sciences, arts, and management.
Education fairs are enriching opportunities for students to connect with the right spokespeople and gather a fair idea about the various prospects of abroad studies. Having a broad picture of the opportunities available will make the preparatory process easier for students. “The education fair has been extremely helpful to get a detailed overview of the pre-requisites of various universities and manoeuvre my preparation accordingly”, commented Kavya Sree, a Computer Science Engineering student.
SRM University-AP maintains a consistent interface with education abroad experts to assist enrolling students in prestigious overseas universities. The university boasts of its enormous list of students who have made it to high-ranking universities with exciting scholarship offers. “I have already been associated with the university and have no qualms about the calibre of the students. An opportunity to associate with SRM AP is indeed rewarding,” remarked Swapna Parsa, the South Indian Programme Manager for the QS World Ranking universities.
The Directorate of International Relations and Higher Studies spares no effort in providing the students with the right opportunities. The office caters to the requirements of all aspiring students and gives them the right guidance at every step of their preparatory process. Education fairs, awareness sessions, training programmes and coaching for IELTS, TOEFL, etc., are a few of the events organised by the directorate for the students.
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