EEE students venture into Entrepreneurship
HatchLab Research Centre, SRM University-AP aims at facilitating a conducive atmosphere where all types of businesses can grow and prosper especially in a socially backward place. Hatchlab has helped in developing multiple projects, but here’s a unique venture by fourth year
Electrical and Electronics Engineering students, Gopichand and Avinash.
Whilst the rest of their batch mates are awaiting lucrative offers from top-tech companies, this duo has decided to venture into Entrepreneurship. Gopichand and Avinash, despite societal pressure, have decided to live their dreams and co-founded Virxon Private Limited. These final year engineering students have developed an AI-based digital platform that would enable schools to post job openings for teachers, along with fully automated ERP and learning solutions for students. After surveying around 400+ schools. Virxon found that, there is a huge gap in the demand and supply which can be automated through AI tools and provide a complete solution which is missing in the market right now.
Thrilled about their decision of swimming against the tide to choose a rather difficult path, these entrepreneur duo said -“It may appear that we might be slogging for 18 hours, and stay awake till 2 am in the morning, balancing our studies and our aspirations, but that is not the case. Our dreams keep us awake and our goals keep us going. We are definitely going to make a difference in society.”
Currently, the students are being mentored on the business model and the marketing strategies by Mr. Jayaprakash Narayan, from HatchLab Research Centre, SRM University- AP.
- Published in Departmental News, EEE NEWS, IDEA NEWS, News, Students Achievements
Role of Covid-19 Disruption
Covid-19, has wreaked havoc in ordinary life, health and finance have taken the worst hit. As for finance, people saw the loss of their livelihood, businesses collapsed and for several mid-scale and large-scale businesses, the working capital and firm performance diminished to a great extent. In the given context, Dr Pradeep Rathore Assistant Professor from The Paari School of Business (PSB) published a compelling research paper titled, “Working Capital and Firm Performance: Role of COVID-19 Disruption” in International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management” where he addresses the issue and analyses the cause.
Abstract
This study examines the performance effect of working capital for a large sample of Indian manufacturing firms in light of supply chain disruption, i.e. the COVID-19 pandemic. This study is based on secondary data collected from the Prowess database on Indian manufacturing firms listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) 500. Panel data regression analyses are used to estimate all models. Moreover, this study has employed robust standard errors to consider for heteroscedasticity concerns. The results challenge the current notion of working capital investment and reveal that higher working capital has a positive and significant impact on firm performance. Further, it highlights that Indian manufacturing firms suffered financially post-COVID-19 as they significantly lack the working capital to run day-to-day operations. This research contributes to the scant literature by examining the association between working capital financing and firm performance in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, representing typical developing economies like India.
The study implies that organisations need to have higher working capital during an economic downturn such as COVID-19 as it takes care of present and future financing needs, to facilitate their day-to-day operational activities, and to enhance performance of both working capital and firm performance, operational and financial. The study also suggests that Managers should understand the value of working capital and advocate for higher working capital investment to address supply chain disruptions during economic downturns.
Dr Pradeep Rathore is presently working on topics related to sustainable development
goals, sustainability, and solid waste management.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Research News, SEAMS
Changes and Challenges in the Finance Domain
The B-School of SRM University-AP frequently organises invited lectures and guest talks by renowned industry experts that enlighten the students of the Paari School of Business on the evolving domains of business, finance and management. A recent guest talk featuring Dr Manish Jha, MD of Briisk Limited, founder and MD of Finkai and Myra Academy, as the keynote speaker was conducted on the topic “Digital Transformation in Financial Services: Challenges and Opportunities” on May 27, 2023.
Dr Manish Jha explicated the various nuances of the industry and advised the students on the specific skillsets that have to be mastered to survive in the rat race. He stated that improvisation skill is more important to survive in this dynamic field. Dr Jha explained the importance of an MBA and the difference in expectation and reality while pursuing a Master’s in Business. A detailed overview of different specialisations along with their scopes and opportunities was also discussed. He had also real-life examples from his own journey that deeply impressed and motivated the students and faculty of the school. Dr Jha also addressed Ms Sudha, who was also a guest at the talk and remarked that she is an inspiration for all the girl students who are interested in building up themselves.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Paari Current Happenings
Best Paper Award: Conferred to Dr Raviteja KVNS at RAISE 2023
The Department of Civil Engineering is glad to announce that Dr Raviteja KVNS, Assistant Professor, has received the Best Paper Award for his paper titled “Compressibility Characteristics of Bentonite Amended Fly Ash Liners Exposed to Phosphate Contamination” at the 2nd International Conference RAISE 2023 (Recent Advances in Sustainable Environment) held on May 15-16, 2023. Dr Raviteja collaborated with Dr Janga Jagadeesh Kumar and Dr Krishna R Reddy, Civil, Materials and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois Chicago for the research paper. Their cutting-edge research focused on developing alternate liner materials for waste containment systems.
Abstract
Waste containment systems like landfills, and impoundments are often lined with low permeable clays of hydraulic conductivity less than 10-7 cm/s. However, it is often challenging to get large volumes of low permeable clays near the project site. Conveyance of large volumes of clay from distant locations can be unsustainable due to the associated carbon emissions and energy costs, and not viable financially. Hence, there is a need to identify alternative liner materials without compromising on the containment capabilities. This study proposes the use of fly ash, amended with bentonite, as an alternative to the traditional liner systems. From preliminary studies, it is understood that a mixture of 80% fly ash amended with 20% bentonite is optimal to function as an effective liner material. However, the hydro-mechanical stability of liners needs to be investigated under different contamination scenarios. The present study reports the compressibility behavior of the proposed liner system under phosphate contamination, typically found in landfill leachate, impoundments, and stormwater retention ponds. One-dimensional consolidation tests were conducted on pure bentonite and fly ash with water to study the compressibility characteristics of individual materials. The optimum mix (80-20) was then tested at three different solutions exposure: water, 3.2 mg/L PO4-3-P and 12 mg/L PO4-3-P. It is depicted that the addition of 20% bentonite to fly ash did not affect the compressibility significantly, while the presence of phosphate contamination did not compromise the hydro-mechanical stability of the proposed liner system.
- Published in CIVIL NEWS, Departmental News, Faculty Achievements, News, Research News
MoU with NITTE (Deemed to be University) to foster research in Biological Science
SRM University-AP inked an MoU with NITTE (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, on June 16, 2023, to promote academics and research in Biological Science. The MoU was signed at the NITTE Mangalore campus by Dr R Premkumar, Registrar, SRM University-AP and Prof. Dr Harsha Halahalli, Registrar, NITTE, in the presence of Prof. Dr MS Moodithaya, Vice-Chancellor, NITTE.
Prof. Dr MS Moodithaya termed this association a very important one for the university and expressed his confidence that the formal agreement will foster a mutually beneficial relationship through knowledge exchange, academic excellence, and research of societal relevance between the Universities. “I hope this collaboration can leverage both university’s strengths and complementary skills to undertake research projects that require a combination of expertise. I look forward to the synergy leading to more comprehensive and impactful research outcomes”, commented Prof. Manoj K Arora, Vice Chancellor, SRM University-AP, in response to the MoU.
Prof. Jayaseelan Murugaiyan, Head-Department of Biological Sciences, SRM University-AP and Dr Krishna Kumar, Associate Professor, NITTE University Centre for Science, Education and Research (NUCSER), have been collaborating for the last couple of years in the field of antimicrobial resistance. Prof. Anirban Chakraborty, Director- NUCSER and Prof. Jayaseelan Murugaiyan, SRM University-AP, are the authorised representatives from the respective universities. The Director, R&D; Director, Projects and DST-NUTEC; Director, Academia- Industry collaborations; Director, Institute Innovation Council; and Director, PG Studies and Clinical Research were among the others present on this occasion.
- Published in Biology News, Departmental News, MoU, News
Harnessing Body, Mind and Spirit
“Yoga is not just physical exercise. It is a union with the self, union with the universe. The universe lies outside and inside us. If we connect with ourselves, that means we are connecting with the universe” said Prof. Manoj K Arora, Vice Chancellor, SRM University-AP on the occasion of International Yoga Day Celebration held on June 21, 2023.
A yoga session was held under the joint venture of the Directorate of Sports and Directorate of Student Affairs. Prof. Arora, who participated as the Chief Guest in the programme addressed the staff and students through a session on Meditation and Wellness and announced the starting of a Yoga Club in the varsity.
Dr Abdul Mohimin, Assistant Director of Sports, spoke at length on the practice of yoga. Additionally, students of the varsity demonstrated dance yoga and clap yoga sessions, which left the audience invigorated. Dr R Premkumar, Registrar; Prof. Vishnupad, Dean-SLASS; Dr K Mohan, Director-ITKM; Dr Vijay Kumar Upadhyay, Director-Sports; Dr Manish Kumar, Director-Human Resources; Mr Pankaj Belwariar, Director-Communications; Mrs Suma N, CFAO; faculty; staff and students participated in the celebration.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Sports News, student affairs news
SRM University-AP Signs MoU with DBS Bank, India
Hatchlab Research Centre, a technology and livelihood incubator, under The Directorate of Leadership, Innovation and Entrepreneurship has accomplished a milestone achievement as it joined forces with DBS Bank, India. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two parties in order to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem in the varsity. The collaboration aims to empower startups and offer incredible opportunities for our entrepreneurial community at SRM University-AP.
Senior Vice Presidents, Mr Sushant Shetty and Mr Rama Rao Peri, other senior members of the leadership team from DBS Bank India, Prof. Manoj K Arora, Vice Chancellor, SRM University-AP ; Dr R Premkumar, Registrar, SRM University-AP and Mr Udayan Bakshi, Associate Director – Entrepreneurship and the leadership team of Hatchlab Research Centre graced the occasion.
- Published in Departmental News, IDEA NEWS, MoU, News
Physics Graduate Secures Two International Internships
In an era where competition in the job market is on the peek, internships give you an edge over the rest of your peers. It gives you an opportunity to get real-time experience and put to practise what you have learnt. But not everyone manages to acquire an internship, while most students manage to barely secure a single internship, Md Shoaib, has bagged not one, but two exciting international internships in the field of Quantum Physics!
Here’s what Md Shoaib has to say on his remarkable achievement: “ I am excited to delve deeper into this topic and participate in enriching lectures, workshops, and interactions with experts in the field. It will be a valuable experience to learn from renowned Quantum scientists from various countries and broaden my understanding of Quantum Cryptography.”
Md Shoaib, a BSc Physics (Hons) with Research student has secured the prestigious Taiwan Experience Education Program (TEEP) internship programme along with a Summer School “Quantum Cryptography” internship offered by the University of Gdańsk, Poland. The internships not only offer a stipend but also covers travel, accommodation and logistic expenses.
We wish Md Shoaib the very best in his endeavour!
- Published in Departmental News, News, Physics News, Students Achievements
World Environment Day Celebrations – An Initiative to Beat Plastic Pollution
The Department of Environmental Science and Engineering celebrated World Environment Day on June 05, 2023, initiating awareness of the need to combat the climate crisis posed by global plastic pollution. The department organised two invited lectures from industry experts to expound on the theme of World Environment Day 2023, “Solutions to Plastic Pollution”. Efficient ways to tackle plastic pollution in the country and local waste management systems and policies were key points of discussion. Prof. K V Jayakumar, Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Warangal and Mr M V Chary, President, Jindal Urban Waste Management, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, were the invited speakers.
Prof. K V Jayakumar lent thought-provoking insights into the types of water and how marketing strategies sell water at high prices to consumers. He also shared his experience of his visits to other countries in Europe and Asia where water is utilised wisely. Apart from water and plastic pollution, he also addressed the pressing issue of climate change happening over the years and the consequent increase in temperature. Prof. Jayakumar also suggested the book “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson, which is often viewed as a landmark work of environmental writing, focusing on the harmful effects of pesticides on the environment.
Mr M V Chary shared in-depth information about the Jindal Urban Waste Management at Guntur, stating the various source of waste, collection points, transportation to the Jindal Waste – Energy Plant, and how waste is converted to energy (through incineration) at the plant. Unique aspects of the plant were also discussed at length, along with a video presentation demonstrating the complete working of the plant. The interactive session with Mr Chary, wherein he shared his expertise in the industrial sector, was beneficial for the students.
A pledge was taken by all participants at the end of the seminar emphasising the importance of saving the environment, sustainable resource management and the need of awareness among all in reducing the pollution as well as global warming and climate change.
Dr Karthik Rajendran, HOD of the Department, delivered the welcome address and the event witnessed an active participation of 85 participants which constitutes Professors, Faculty, PhD Scholars, Undergraduate students from various departments. There were also faculty and scholars from neighbouring colleges such as Acharya Nagarjuna University, Sidhartha Mahila Kalasala and Ministry of Culture, New Delhi.
- Published in Departmental News, ENVS News, Invited Talks, News
Multidisciplinary Challenges in Green Smart Cities Implementation
As the world grapples with the escalating challenges of urbanisation and environmental degradation, the concept of green smart cities has emerged as a promising solution. Green smart cities integrate advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and innovative urban planning to create environmentally friendly, resource-efficient, and liveable urban spaces. However, implementing green smart cities poses numerous multidisciplinary challenges that require careful consideration and collaborative efforts from various fields.
Assistant Professors Dr Dhamodharan M and Dr Aehsan Ahmad Dar from the Department of Psychology have published a chapter titled Multidisciplinary Challenges in Green Smart Cities Implementation in the book Green Blockchain Technology for Sustainable Smart Cities in Elsevier, which is Scopus Indexed.
Focusing on challenges in green smart cities implementation will help the policymakers, government, and public to get aware of the problems related to all aspects. Implementing green smart cities may provide difficulties in the previously described dimensions of governance, economics, social interaction, technology, and ethics. Therefore, as the world’s population grows, there is a need to adapt to the changes, such as green smart cities. Government, policymakers, and the general public should adopt solutions to societal issues supported by science and research. The next generation will find it convenient and necessary to develop green smart cities. The world will prosper with green smart cities if policymakers, the government, and the people simultaneously identify the issues and begin the work properly with the right strategy and support.
Abstract
Villages are the pride of the nation. Nevertheless, cities reflect the nation’s growth and prospects. Department of Economic and Social Affairs in the United Nations explained that the universe’s people will be nearly 70 % in urban areas by 2050. Cities worldwide are facing important issues with increasing urbanisation, environmental sustainability, unemployment, slums, and mitigation of climate variation. So, policymakers and researchers focused on the concept of a smart city to manage these challenges. Consequently, the concept of “Smart Green Cities” came into the picture. Smart green cities are the collaborative hub linked with business, government, education, and the public to generate comfortable living in urban environments by encouraging change with scientific-based problem-solving. In simple terms, Green smart cities are technologically advanced in solving problems without harming the environment. For Implementing green smart cities, developed and developing countries are collaborating and signing a memorandum of understanding with one another. Government representatives, educators, and the public should cooperate to make a green smart city successful.
Green smart cities make global connectedness, productivity, efficiency, and revolution possible. Meanwhile, poorly regulated green smart cities will result in environmental difficulties like socioeconomic inequalities, poor public safety, and conservational destruction. Furthermore, implementing green smart cities is not a simple strategy. This chapter discusses multidisciplinary challenges in green smart cities’ implementation. People face challenges through green smart cities implementation in the following sustainability dimensions such as Blockchain challenges, Governance challenges, Economic challenges, Social challenges, Technology challenges, Environmental challenges, and Ethical challenges.
Collaborations
- Dr Dhamodharan M, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, SRM University-AP.
- Mr Vimalkumar, Research Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad, Kerala
- Dr Aehsan Ahmad Dar, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, SRM University-AP.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Psychology News, Research News