Dr Vineeth Publishes Paper on Policy Responses to Caste Violence in Tamil Nadu
Dr Vineeth Thomas, Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science, has recently published a paper titled “Policy Responses to Caste Violence in Tamil Nadu” in the esteemed journal Economic and Political Weekly (EPW). In the paper, Dr. Thomas offers valuable insights into the crucial issue of caste violence in Tamil Nadu and examines various policy responses aimed at addressing this complex societal challenge.
Dr Thomas’s research illuminates the dynamics of caste violence and provides a comprehensive analysis of the policy measures adopted to tackle this pressing issue. His work in the EPW is expected to significantly contribute to the discourse on caste-based conflicts and policy formulation in the region. The publication of this paper not only exemplifies Dr. Vineeth Thomas’s scholarly prowess but also underscores SRM University—AP’s commitment to fostering impactful research in the realm of social and political sciences. It is anticipated that this publication will stimulate further academic dialogue and influence policy considerations in the domain of caste relations and violence in Tamil Nadu.
Abstract of the Research
This study examines the policy response to caste violence in schools in Tamil Nadu, particularly through the recommendations of a committee led by retired Justice K. Chandru. The committee’s report highlights pervasive caste discrimination in schools and proposes various measures, including teacher transfers, banning caste markers, and implementing orientation programs on caste-related issues. The report also suggests the establishment of School Welfare Officers and Social Justice Student Forces, along with a robust grievance redressal mechanism. Despite opposition and criticism, these recommendations represent a significant step toward addressing caste discrimination in Tamil Nadu’s educational institutions.
Research in Layperson’s Terms
This research focuses on the problem of caste discrimination in schools in Tamil Nadu, India. Despite the state’s reputation for promoting social justice, caste-based violence still occurs, even among students. A committee led by retired Justice K. Chandru made several recommendations to address this issue, such as banning caste markers like wristbands and educating students and teachers about discrimination. The report also suggests having specific officers to ensure these measures are followed. While these recommendations aim to create a fairer school environment, their success depends on proper implementation and support from the community.
Practical Implementation and the Social Implications Associated
Implementing this research can lead to more inclusive and equitable school environments by eliminating caste-based discrimination. By enforcing bans on caste markers, educating students and teachers, and establishing grievance mechanisms, schools can foster a culture of equality, reducing social tensions and promoting a just society for future generations.
Collaborations
Electoral Politics
Future Research Plans
Indian govt and politics
- Published in Departmental News, News, Political Science News, Research News
A Novel SERS Substrate to Detect Food Contamination
Dr Rajapandiyan P, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, and his PhD scholar, Ms Arunima Jinachandran, recently filed and published a patent, “A Substrate for Contaminant Detection and a Process for its Synthesis,” with Application Number: 202441043642 in the Patent Office Journal. The research duo has developed a novel SERS (Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy) substrate by synthesising silver nanopopcorn and depositing it on a polycarbonate membrane.
This novel substrate demonstrates excellent uniformity, reproducibility, and mechanical stability. It is used for the sensitive detection of toxic antibiotic nitrofurazone on fish surfaces and in honey. This breakthrough could significantly enhance food safety monitoring by providing a reliable and efficient method for detecting harmful substances.
Abstract
Detecting nitrofurazone (NFZ) in aquaculture and livestock is crucial due to its carcinogenic properties. This study presents a flexible polycarbonate membrane (PCM) with three-dimensional silver nanopopcorns (Ag NPCs) for NFZ detection on fish surfaces using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The Ag-NPCs/PCM substrate demonstrates a significant Raman signal enhancement (EF = 2.36 × 106) due to hotspots from nanoscale protrusions and crevices. It achieves a low limit of detection (LOD) of 3.7 × 10−9 M, with uniform and reproducible signals (RSD < 8.34%) and retains 70% efficacy after 10 days. The practical detection LODs for NFZ in tap water, honey water, and on fish surfaces are 1.35 × 10−8 M, 5.76 × 10−7 M, and 3.61 × 10−8 M, respectively, demonstrating its effectiveness for various samples. This Ag-NPCs/PCM substrate offers a promising approach for sensitive SERS detection of toxic substances in real-world applications.
Practical Implementation/ Social Implications of the Research
The practical applicability of the proposed Ag-NPCs/PCM SERS substrate is validated by successfully detecting NFZ in various actual samples, such as tap water, honey water, and irregular fish surfaces.
Collaborations – Prof. Tzyy-Jiann Wang – National Taipei University of Technology, Taiwan
Dr Rajapandiyan and Ms Arunima will continue to work towards the development of novel flexible SERS substrates for detecting toxic pollutants in food.
- Published in Chemistry-news, Departmental News, News, Research News
Founder Chancellor and University Leadership Meet the Honourable CM of AP
Founder Chancellor of SRM Group and former Member of Parliament Dr T R Paarivendhar and Pro-Chancellor Dr P Sathyanarayanan met the Chief Minister of the state, Shri Nara Chandrababu Naidu, at the Office of the Secretariat. This is the second visit of the university leadership to the Chief Minister’s Office, as the former had first approached the CM to extend their congratulations on his fourth tenure as the head of the state government.
Dr Paarivendhar briefed Chief Minister Shri Naidu about the development and planned expansion projects of SRM University-AP in Amaravati. “As a premier institute disseminating tertiary education to the ground roots of the country, we politely urge the government under the lead of Shri Chandrababu Naidu to cordially aid SRM University-AP’s subsequent projects to provide world-class education and empower our country’s youth”, said Dr Paarivendhar.
Emphasising the importance of educating the youth in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence, enhancing 21st-century skills and the significance of an industry-led academic curriculum to the Chief Minister, Dr Sathyanarayanan stated that “The support from the state government is pivotal for the SRM University-AP to undertake new projects. The development of the institute will summate to the progression of the state by enhancing literacy and human capital.” He suggested that an additional 100 acres could be allotted to the university as per the agreement made during the establishment of the university.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu responded positively and concurred with the proposal proffered by the university leadership. Shri Naidu promised to provide all required resources and support towards the university’s growth and expansion.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora, Executive Director (SRM Group) Prof. D Narayana Rao, and Registrar Dr Premkumar, were also part of the leadership cohort that met the Honourable CM.
- Published in News
Exploring the Impact of Welding Processes on Duplex Stainless Steel Parts in Additive Manufacturing
In a recent publication in the prestigious Journal Metals and Materials International, Dr Maheshwar Dwivedy, Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Dr B Prasanna Nagasai, Post-Doctoral Researcher, delve into the intricate relationship between welding processes and the resulting microstructure and mechanical properties of Duplex Stainless-Steel parts fabricated through Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing.
The research paper, aptly titled “Influence of Welding Processes on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Duplex Stainless-Steel Parts Fabricated by Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing,” illuminates the crucial factors that influence the quality and performance of components produced using this innovative manufacturing technique.
This collaborative effort not only enriches the academic community but also holds promising implications for the advancement of additive manufacturing technologies, particularly in the realm of Duplex Stainless-Steel fabrication. By unravelling the impact of different welding processes on the microstructural characteristics and mechanical behaviour of such components, the researchers offer valuable insights that can potentially enhance the efficiency and reliability of the manufacturing process.
The publication of this paper signifies a significant milestone in the ongoing exploration of material science and additive manufacturing techniques, highlighting the dedication and expertise of Dr Maheshwar Dwivedy and Dr B Prasanna Nagasai in pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation in the field.
Abstract
Direct energy deposition (DED) is an advanced additive manufacturing (AM) technique for producing large metal components in structural engineering. Its cost-effectiveness and high deposition rates make it suitable for creating substantial and complex parts. However, the mechanical and microstructural properties of these components can be influenced by the varying heat input and repeated thermal treatments associated with different welding procedures used during the deposition process. This study employed gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and cold metal transfer (CMT) arc welding techniques to fabricate cylindrical components from 2209 duplex stainless steel (DSS).
The research investigated the impact of these welding methods on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the 2209 DSS cylinders. The intricate thermal cycles and cooling rates inherent in the DED process significantly influenced the primary phase balance, ideally comprising 50% austenite and 50% ferrite. In components processed using GMAW, σ-phase formation was noted at the grain boundaries. Additionally, a slower cooling rate and extended time for solid-state phase transformations led to an increase in austenite content from the bottom to the top of the component. The cylinder fabricated using the CMT process exhibited fine austenite morphologies and a higher ferrite content compared to the GMW-processed cylinder.
Furthermore, the cylinder produced using the CMT process showed consistent properties across the building direction, unlike the components manufactured with the GMW process. In terms of tensile properties, hardness, and impact toughness, the cylinder produced using the CMT technique outperformed the one made with the GMW process.
Research in Layperson’s Terms
Over the last ten years, a new way of making things called additive manufacturing (AM) has become really popular, especially in industries like aerospace, oil, and gas. This technology builds parts layer by layer, which is a big change from traditional methods that often involve cutting away material to shape a part. One specific method of AM, called Directed Energy Deposition (DED), is particularly good at creating complex metal parts quickly and efficiently. A special kind of stainless steel called duplex stainless steel (DSS) is made of two types of microstructures, ferrite and austenite, which give it great strength and resistance to corrosion. This makes it ideal for use in demanding environments like the oil and gas industry.
A technique within DED called Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is becoming a popular way to make large, strong metal parts like pipes and storage tanks. WAAM uses the same equipment as welding and can build parts by melting wire with an electric arc. It’s faster and cheaper than other AM methods. However, the process can change the structure of the metal, which affects its properties. For example, too much heat can reduce the amount of ferrite in the metal, making it less strong.
Researchers have been studying how different methods of WAAM, including ones that use less heat, affect the metal’s structure and properties. They’ve found that controlling the heat can lead to better mechanical properties, like higher strength and toughness. They’ve also looked at new technologies like digital twins (virtual models of the manufacturing process) to improve the stability and consistency of the process. In this study, researchers focused on making cylindrical parts from 2209 DSS using two different welding processes within WAAM: Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and Cold Metal Transfer (CMT).
They studied how these processes affected the metal’s structure and properties, like tensile strength, hardness, and toughness. The goal was to understand which process produces the best quality parts for industrial use. In summary, the research aims to improve the manufacturing of strong, corrosion-resistant metal parts using advanced AM techniques, making them more efficient and cost-effective for industries that need durable components.
Practical Implementation or the Social Implications Associated
The practical implementation of this research can revolutionise industrial manufacturing, especially in sectors like aerospace, oil and gas, automotive, and marine applications. Using WAAM with DSS, industries can produce lightweight, high-strength parts that withstand extreme environments, significantly improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness. WAAM’s ability to quickly produce customized and high-quality components also makes it ideal for rapid prototyping and repair, reducing lead times and overall production costs. Furthermore, WAAM is a more sustainable manufacturing method, generating less waste and utilizing recycled materials, contributing to eco-friendly production practices. The social implications are substantial, including the creation of new job opportunities and the need for specialized training programs to equip workers with advanced skills.
The economic impact is also notable, as WAAM enhances the competitiveness of companies, driving economic growth in high-tech industries. Innovation is fostered through advancements in manufacturing processes and materials science, leading to improved product performance and longevity, particularly in safety-critical applications. Additionally, the environmental benefits of reduced waste and potential use of recycled materials align with global sustainability goals. Overall, the adoption of WAAM can democratize the manufacturing landscape, making advanced technologies more accessible and affordable for smaller companies and startups, thereby fostering a more inclusive and innovative industrial environment.
Future Research Plans:
The upcoming work will focus on creating Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs) using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) by merging various metals, including nickel, stainless steel, mild steel, Inconel 718, and AISI 410 MSS. The goal is to optimise material interfaces, refine deposition processes, and ensure structural integrity for high-performance applications.
- Published in Departmental News, Mechanical Engineering NEWS, News, Research News