SRM AP Strengthens Ties with Japan University of Economics
In a step towards broadening horizons and enriching academic opportunities, the Directorate of International Relations and Higher Studies (IR & HS) at SRM University-AP welcomed delegates from the Japan University of Economics (JUE). This milestone event marked the formalisation of a partnership aimed at fostering meaningful academic collaborations and strengthening ties between the two institutions.
The signing ceremony was graced by the presence of esteemed representatives from JUE, including Dr Yuzo Tashiro, Director of the International Department and Head of Marketing Course, and Dr Katsunori Takahashi, Associate Professor of Global Business. Representing SRM University-AP, Dr Premkumar R, Registrar, was joined by Mr C.A. Chander Krishnamoorthy, CFO-SRM Group, and Mr Lakshmi Narasimhan, Director-in-Charge of International Relations and Higher Studies. The gathering also included prominent faculty members like Dr Sudeshna Saha, Prof Bharadhwaj Sivakumaran, Prof. Vishnupad Mishra, Dr Manish Kumar, and Dr Srujana Boddu, among others.
This collaboration is more than just an agreement—it’s a shared vision for preparing students to thrive in 
a global world. Through this partnership, SRM University-AP and JUE aim to unlock diverse opportunities, including student and faculty exchange programmes, joint research initiatives, semester-abroad programmes, and joint international conferences.
Japan University of Economics, known for its commitment to industry-focused education, brings a wealth of expertise to the table. This partnership with JUE will open a gateway for SRM AP students to access unparalleled career opportunities in Japan. A standout feature of this collaboration is its alignment with SRM AP’s flagship programme Destination Japan.
The partnership also promises to enhance students’ academic experiences by introducing joint courses focused on Japan’s economy, giving them a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most dynamic economic landscapes. With direct pathways to internships and employment in Japan, this collaboration ensures that SRM AP students are not just academically prepared but also ready to integrate seamlessly into global workplaces.
A Session on Interspecies Living and Bio-acoustics by Rohit Chakravarty
The Department of Sociology and Anthropology under the aegis of Easwari School of Liberal Arts at SRM University-AP hosted a thought-provoking session on November 07, 2024. The session unravelled a fascinating world of interspecies living and highlighted the vital yet often ignored role of bats in our ecosystem. Mr Rohit Chakravarthy, a bat researcher working with Nature Conservation Foundation and Bat Conservation International was the speaker for the session.
The session for the students of Universal Human Values and Ethics focused on inter species living and inclusivity, although misunderstood and feared, bats play a critical role in contributing to the agriculture and beverages industries. The session also revealed that bats are primary pollinators for Durian fruit and tequila, two products that owe their existence to these nocturnal creatures. The session witnessed many such interesting stories that helped to portray bats as less frightening creatures.
However, it wasn’t just science and industry on the agenda. The session brought to life the fascinating social structures within bat colonies and captivating stories of bats sharing food with those in need and even acting as midwives, assisting other bats during childbirth! These behaviours reflect values of care and community that humans can learn from—reminders of how interconnected life on Earth truly is!
The session also acknowledged their association with the deadly viruses such as SARS, COVID-19, and Nipah. As the session drew to a close, students walked away with more than just facts. They left with a renewed appreciation for the world around them.
The second session, directed at Open Elective students studying the Socio-Cultural Dimensions of Sound, dove into the incredible world of bio-acoustics. The lecture explored echolocation used by bats as an important indicator for the military infrastructure for improving sonar technology used in submarines. Students were fascinated by the intricacies of interspecies communication, as bats use sound not only for navigation but also to exchange crucial information about habitat, mating, and potential threats.
The lectures beautifully combined science, ethics, and socio-cultural insights, reflecting the Department’s mission to nurture holistic thinkers and foster interdisciplinary learning. Although unconventional, the talk seemed to open new and diverse avenues for Liberal arts students, inspiring them to walk newer and less trodden paths.
- Published in Departmental News, Liberal Arts News, News
Challenging Norms and Expanding Perspectives with YSK Prerna
In a world where conversations around gender are evolving rapidly, the Department of Sociology and Anthropology from the Easwari School of Liberal Arts at SRM University-AP hosted a two-part lecture series that sparked introspection, challenged societal norms, and helped foster inclusivity. With honest discussions, cultural references, and meaningful reflections, the sessions resonated deeply with students, encouraging them to rethink what they know about gender.The session saw Artistic Director of Conflictorium – Museum of Conflict, Chattisgarh, and Gujarat, YSK Prerana as its speaker.
The first session for the Universal Human Values and Ethics students opened the door to reimagining gender beyond traditional binaries. The discussions tackled pressing issues such as inequality, the choice of motherhood, and the issue of gender-based violence. The session wove in popular memes that students see every day to explore how gender stereotypes are subtly reinforced. The speaker took things a step further, the short film Juice. Set in a household gathering, the movie painted a raw picture of how caste, class, and gender intersect, powerfully illustrating how invisible power dynamics shape everyday interactions.
The session wasn’t about pointing fingers or placing blame. It was about understanding—about seeing the world through a different lens and recognising how ingrained norms can shape perceptions. Students left the room not just with questions but with a drive to seek answers and advocate for change.
The second session, tailored for students of the Open Elective Law and Society, turned the focus inward. It started with a simple question: When did you first become aware of your gender? What followed was an exploration of how gender is more than an identity—it’s a social construct shaped by power dynamics.
Students examined how societal categories like caste and class blend into gendered expectations and how these norms are portrayed through media. But the session didn’t just focus on challenges. It celebrated progress, stressing upon how new meanings and ways of expressing gender are emerging every day.
The sessions made students pause and think about the roles they play in their communities and the changes they can bring. By addressing deeply ingrained issues with honesty and compassion, the Department of Sociology and Anthropology created a space where students could reflect on their own experiences, listen and most importantly ask questions.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Sociology and Anthropology News
Student Innovators Soar to New Heights at Drone Summit 2024
The Amravathi Drone Summit 2024 emerged as a landmark event, uniting industry leaders, trailblazers, and visionaries committed to revolutionising the future of drone technology. This varsity proudly showcased its expertise as the esteemed technology partner for this high-profile summit. The summit was charged with excitement as participants explored an array of drones through impressive exhibitions, engaging hackathons, and thought-provoking panel discussions.
The Hackathon tested the skills and creativity of the brightest minds. Our very own team of second-year Civil Engineering students made waves by clinching the runner-up prize. The winning trio, Ms Nithya, Ms Sumaya, and Mr Hitesh, received a cash prize of ₹50,000. This achievement not only reflected their hard work and dedication but also showcased the exceptional talent nurtured at the university. Under the guidance of faculty members Dr Harish Puppala and Dr Pranav Peddintti, Assistant Professors in the Department of Civil Engineering, these students are poised to become future leaders in drone technology.
The summit also featured notable panel discussions that provided deeper insights into the evolving landscape of drone technology. Among the distinguished speakers was Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K. Arora, who served as a prominent panellist in the discussions. He was joined by other faculty members, including Dr Raviteja, Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, Dr Pranav Peddinti, and Dr Harish Puppala, Coordinators of the Centre for Drone Technology and the Centre for Geospatial Technology, respectively, who contributed their expertise on the latest developments in the industry.
With the remarkable performances of our students and the strategic discussions by our faculty, the Amravathi Drone Summit 2024 marks a bold step forward for drone technology.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Students Achievements
Bridging Minds and Machines: A Guest Lecture on Language Processing
The Department of Literature & Languages hosted a guest lecture for students enrolled in the open elective course “Decoding Language,” which is based on Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). The lecture took place on October 14 and 15, 2024 and featured Dr Debdarsan Niyogi, an authority in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Generative AI.
Dr Niyogi’s lecture, titled “Mind & Machine: How Language is Processed,” focused on the intersection of human cognition and artificial intelligence in language processing. He provided in-depth insights into how natural language processing (NLP) algorithms enable machines to interpret and generate human language. The sessions bridged the gap between human linguistic abilities and machine learning models.
Students gained valuable knowledge about the parallels between human and machine language processing. They learned about the complexities of NLP and its real-world applications in AI, data science, and machine learning. This understanding will not only enhance their grasp of neuro-linguistic programming but also prepare them for future endeavours in the growing field of AI-driven language technologies.
- Published in Departmental News, English news, News
Department of Psychology and the Wellness Centre Partner for Mental Health Awareness Programme
The Wellness Club under the Department of Psychology, in collaboration with the Wellness Center at SRM University-AP, hosted a mental health awareness programme aimed at undergraduate students on September 14, 2024. The initiative focused on raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention while promoting a supportive campus environment for the students.
University counsellors Ms Mohua Das, Ms Alekhya Sankara, and Mr Joel Kristof Gibbs played a pivotal role in the programme, leading discussions and workshops on the emotional and psychological challenges students may face. They addressed critical issues like stress management, anxiety, and crisis intervention, highlighting their extensive experience in supporting students’ mental wellness.
The programme’s objectives included reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues, encouraging open conversations, and equipping students with tools to recognise warning signs of suicide. Interactive activities, such as the Wall of Hope and Emotional Wheel, engaged participants in expressing hope and reflecting on their emotions.
In addition to discussions, an Art Therapy Workshop provided a creative outlet for attendees, teaching grounding techniques for emotional healing. Students also showcased their creativity through poetry and digital art competitions, with themes centred on hope, resilience, and suicide prevention.
An information booth offered attendees resources on mental health support systems and coping strategies. The event concluded with a Valedictory Ceremony, where reflections on the day were shared, and prizes were awarded to competition winners.
Participants left feeling empowered and equipped with valuable tools to support their mental well-being and that of their peers. This initiative marks a significant step in SRM University-AP‘s commitment to fostering a supportive and safe environment for student mental health. As mental wellness continues to be a priority, the varsity encourages ongoing participation in mental health initiatives to further enhance awareness and support across the campus.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Psychology News, student affairs news
Prof. Mythily Ramaswamy on Exploring the Intersection of Fourier Analysis and Partial Differential Equations
The Department of Mathematics hosted its 9th Distinguished Lecture, “PDE through Fourier” on September 18, 2024. The speaker, Prof. Mythily Ramaswamy, a renowned scholar in the fields of partial differential equations, control theory, and fluid dynamics addressed a crowd of faculty members, PhD students, MSc students, and attendees from various other Departments.
Prof. Mythily Ramaswamy’s lecture delved into the intricate development of partial differential equations (PDE) as influenced by the groundbreaking work on heat conduction by Fourier in the early 19th century. Prof. Ramaswamy, skillfully traced the history of Fourier’s discovery, leading to the formulation of the Fourier Series—a fundamental aspect of solving PDEs. She also explored modern developments in Fourier analysis and its vital applications in the realm of PDEs.
Prof. Mythily is currently serving as a NASI Senior Scientist at the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS-TIFR) in Bengaluru, she has held significant positions such as Dean at the TIFR Centre for Applicable Mathematics. A recipient of the prestigious P C Mahalanobis Medal from the Indian National Science Academy, Prof. Ramaswamy is recognised for her substantial contributions to nonlinear functional analysis and optimal control, and she takes pride in mentoring the next generation of mathematicians.
Following the lecture, a lively 15-minute Q&A session provided attendees the opportunity to engage with Prof. Ramaswamy. Participants raised thoughtful questions, which sparked invigorating discussions on the applications of PDEs and the pivotal role of Fourier analysis in modern mathematics. The speaker’s valuable insights enriched the audience’s understanding and prompted further interest in the subject.
The event was deemed a resounding success, significantly enriching the academic experience of all participants. Both PhD students and faculty members gleaned crucial knowledge from Prof. Ramaswamy’s expertise, enhancing the intellectual atmosphere of the university. This lecture is poised to positively impact the institution’s academic reputation and foster future research collaborations. The Department of Mathematics looks forward to hosting more events that contribute to the vibrant academic community.
- Published in Departmental News, Math News, News
Dr Jaidev Kaushik Harnesses the Potential of Waste-Derived Copper Flakes
In a society where sustainability is the watchword, Dr Jaidev Kaushik, Assistant Professor at the Department of Chemistry introduces an innovative method for producing acetanilide derivatives, using waste-derived copper flakes as a catalyst. This environmentally friendly approach enables a single-step synthesis while promoting a “waste to wealth” philosophy. His paper titled, “Waste-derived Copper Flakes for Solvent-Free Reductive Acetamidation of Nitroarenes,” featured in the Q1 Journal, Langmuir (ACS).
Abstract:
Amides are the most vital chemical moieties used in organic and biological processes and as a starting material in many industrial sectors like pharmaceuticals, agro-based, polymers, solvents, dyes, pigments, etc. The most common synthesis method of amides is by first reducing nitroarenes to their corresponding amines, followed by acylation with the required acyl group, a two-step process involving expensive metal catalysts. Given this, we have utilized waste-derived copper (Cu) flakes as a cost-effective heterogeneous catalyst for solvent-free and one-pot reductive acylation of nitroarenes. Metallic zerovalent copper flakes (f-ZCu) were isolated from waste copper Cu scrap/flakes/turnings generated after the grinding and cutting from the Cu industries. Moreover, the same procedure was also utilized to produce various substrates, including the gram-scale synthesis of the well-known crucial antipyretic drug, paracetamol.
Practical / Social Implications:
The proposed copper waste-derived heterogeneous catalyst can replace toxic and heavy metal catalysts from various organic synthesis reactions and can be utilized in the large-scale synthesis of important drugs such as paracetamol under more optimized conditions.
Collaborations:
Dr Sumit Kumar Sonkar (MNIT Jaipur, India)
Future Research Plans:
1. The adsorption/photodegradation-assisted quick and efficient removal of next-generation advanced pollutants such as microplastic, pesticides, pharmaceutical waste, etc. by hydrophobic carbon aerogel and their doped and functionalized versions.
2. Utilising waste-derived heterogeneous catalysts in organic transformation reactions.
3. Selective sensing of toxic metal ions/biomarkers/biomolecules using fluorescent nanomaterials.
4. Upcycling of carbonates/CO2 via photo/thermal assisted reactions to get C1 and C2 hydrocarbons (green fuel).
- Published in Departmental News, News, Research News
SRM AP Partners with Amaravati Drone Summit 2024
The Government of Andhra Pradesh has announced its partnership with SRM University-AP as its technology partner for the Amaravati Drone Summit 2024. The Summit will feature Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri. Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu and the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri. Chandra Babu Naidu. Their presence will underscore the importance of the Summit and signal the government’s commitment to embracing new technologies that have the potential to revolutionise various sectors.
The summit will feature thought-provoking sessions by Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora, along with other industry and academic leaders. Additionally, a dedicated exhibition aimed at showcasing solutions and addressing challenges encountered in technology operations will be featured. The Summit will also host Hackathons for students, providing them with a platform to demonstrate their skills and technological expertise. The university’s Centre for Drone Technology will take active part in mutliple sessions at the summit.
By nominating SRM University-AP as its technological partner, the Government of Andhra Pradesh is leveraging the university’s state-of-the-art research facilities and its pool of talented Faculty, researchers and students. This partnership is expected to not only provide a platform for showcasing cutting-edge drone technology but also to spur research and development in this rapidly evolving field.
The event is poised to become a landmark occasion, paving the way for new collaborations and innovations that could redefine the boundaries in the world of technology.
- Published in Civil Engg events, Departmental Events, Events
Professors Develop Fish Scale SERS Substrates for Pollutant Detection
Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS), a technique that helps scientists detect tiny amounts of substances, is used for checking pollutants in our environment and the food we eat. However, using this method can be tricky because sometimes other substances can interfere. To overcome these challenges, scientists are working on better ways to prepare samples and analyse the data with a quick and easy way to find harmful pollutants called PFOSA in human urine, soil, and water using a fish scale-based substrate. This remarkable research titled, “Ag nanoparticle-embedded fish scales as SERS substrates for sensitive detection of forever chemical in real samples” by faculty members from the Department of Chemistry and Department of Biological Sciences, Dr J P Raja Pandiyan and Dr Anil K Suresh, along with their research scholars, Ms Jayasree K and Ms Arunima J, have opened up new avenues, demonstrating a significant advancement in the field of science.
Abstract:
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has emerged as one of the most promising analytical tools in recent years due to its advantageous features such as high sensitivity, specificity, ease of operation, and rapid analysis. These attributes make SERS particularly well-suited for environmental and food analysis. However, detecting target analytes in real samples using SERS faces several challenges, including matrix interference, low analyte concentrations, sample preparation complexity, and reproducibility issues. Additionally, the chemical complexity of pollutants and environmental factors can impact SERS measurements. Overcoming these hurdles demands optimised experimental conditions, refined sample preparation methods, and advanced data analysis techniques, often necessitating interdisciplinary collaborations for effective analysis. Therefore, our focus lies in the development of various methods for fabricating SERS substrates, pretreating analytes, and devising sample preparation strategies. These efforts aim to enable the detection of analytes like Perfluorooctane sulfonamide (PFOSA) – a toxic environmental pollutant within complex real samples, including human urine, lake water, and soil samples.
Practical / Social Implications:
SERS Community: Introducing a facile fabrication method for developing filter paper-based substrates, utilizing evaporation-induced self-assembly methods with the aid of 96-well plates. These substrates boast exceptional sensitivity and uniformity, exhibiting a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 8.2%. They offer easy fabrication and serve as effective SERS substrates for various applications.
Industry and Government Bodies: This invention plays a pivotal role in assessing contamination in food and water bodies, serving as a crucial tool in monitoring
environmental contamination through on-site analysis with portable instruments. It ensures adherence to regulatory standards and safeguards public health.
Research: Beyond its practical applications, the invention supports scientific research endeavours focused on identifying microplastic contaminants in real-world samples using portable Raman spectrometers. This not only aids ongoing research but also paves the way for future studies in this critical field.
Collaborations:
1. Dr Hemanth Noothalapati Raman Project Center for
Medical and Biological
Applications, Shimane
University, Matsue 690-8504,
Japan
2. Dr Murali Krishna C. Advanced Centre for
Treatment, Research and
Education in Cancer, Tata
Memorial Centre, Navi
Mumbai 410210, India
3. Dr Soma Venugopal University of Hyderabad, India
Future Research Plans:
Harnessing SERS for the Detection of Emerging Contaminants in Environmental and Food Matrices
- Published in Chemistry-news, Departmental News, News, Research News