Month: November 2023

Interweaving Anthropology, Science and Narrative of Climate Crisis

Department of  Humanities and Social Sciences of IIT Kharagpur conducted an international conference on “Interweaving Anthropology, Science, and Narrative: Post-anthropocentric Mappings in the Era of Climate Crises,” last week that saw the footfall of many eminent national and international academicians, experts, researchers and scholars. The conference was organised by Dr. Saswat Samay Das & Prof. Bhagirath Behera, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT Kharagpur in association with Prof. Anton Kirchhofer & Dr. Anna Auguscik, University of Oldenburg, Germany and Dr. Ananya Roy Pratihar, Institute of Management and Information Science, Bhubaneswar, India.

Dr. Anna Auguscik, Linguistics and Cultural Studies, Institute of English and American Studies, University of Oldenburg and Prof. Anton Kirchhofer, Professor of English Literature, Institute for English and American Studies, Literary and Cultural Studies, University of Oldenburg were the international coordinators of the symposium. The international speakers that includes Dr. Dunja M. Mohr, University of Erfurt, Germany; Dr. Ingrid Hotz-Davies, Department of English, University of Tübingen, Germany and Dr. Jane Goldman, English Literature and Creative Writing, Glasgow University, U.K emphasized new ways of approaching climate crises.

Speaking in the international symposium, Dr. Das remarked that climate crises demand dispensing with traditional patterns of eco-criticism and turning new planetary aesthetics provided by likes of Dipesh Chakraborty into praxis. Prof. Saugata Bhaduri opined that the need of the time is to view climate crises not with a rejectionist temper, but more positively as a vehicle of regeneration and renewal.

Responding to American Philosopher Donna Haraway’s clarion call to rethink climate crises, the speakers including Prof. Bhaduri emphasized that a tentacular mode of rethinking is required to understand such crises. Prof. Simi Malhotra claimed that while facing climate crises there is a need for developing a planetary sensibility that could “open up relevant ways of thinking, feeling, and being in the world”, rather than reacting to such crises with emotions of fear, pessimism and antagonism produced by humanist institutions.

Prof. Saitya Brata Das, on the contrary, spoke on the need of tailoring ‘a politics of eco-theology’ that can situate a-humanistic thinking, a thinking directed at removing humans from the position of centrality, as the new religious practice of our times. Prof. Anton Kirchhofer and Dr. Anna Auguscik claimed that mapping the constitutive inexpressibility of climate crises demands an experimental mode of narration.

Referring to Amitav Ghosh’s ingenuous narrative style they claimed that a form of “stratigraphic storytelling” is required for yielding a penetrating post-phenomenological insight into what stood as the “unspeakabilities” of climate crisis.  Dr. Huzaifa claimed that the only way to remove traces of anthropologism from discourses of climate crises is to develop what he called a phenomenology of extinction that focuses on stressing the integrality of death drive to human existence.

The symposium indulged in session on the subjects of Eco-aesthetics of the Planet and Globe into Praxis; Anthropocene Perspectives on the Human and its others in Literary Narratives; Critique of Environmentalism: A Comparative Study of Bibhutibhishan Bandyopadhyay’s Aranyak and Mahasweta Devi’s The Hunt; Modernizing Exploitation: Gulf Migration and the Representation of ‘Wasted Lives’ in Temporary People; Mapping Oil Ecologies: Commodity Frontiers and Resource Extraction in Helon Habila’s Oil Fiction Oil on Water (2010) and Cultural Hybridity as Preservation of Westernization: An Investigation of the Selected Novels of Kamila Shamsie and Mohsin Hamid were few among the many genres.

Inputs By : Prof. Saswat Samay Das, Humanities and Social Sciences,IIT Kharagpur
Email: saswatdas.bapi@gmail.com

By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer)
Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007

Follow us on: Facebook – IIT Kharagpur; Twitter – @IITKgp;  Instagram – @iit.kgp; LinkedIn – Indian Institute of Technology
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IIT Kharagpur ranked 5th in India in QS Asia University Ranking 2024

Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT KGP) overall ranked 5th in India and 59th in Asia, according to the latest edition of QS Asia World University Ranking for the year 2024. The largest and first IIT of the country has made its entry in the top 7% in the QS Asia University Rankings with an overall score of 54.5.

Speaking on the QS Asia University Rankings 2024, Prof. V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur remarked, “IIT Kharagpur has upheld the nation’s resolve to excel the standards of globalization with advance manufacturing systems and transportation, safety engineering and analytics, quality and reliability, affordable healthcare, precision agriculture & food nutrition and smart infrastructure to contribute towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat. As an institute of eminence, Technological Research Parks, Centre of Excellence, startup incubators, Lab to Market products and Nano Missions are the new local ecology for innovation and technological pursuits of our institute.

The UK-based ranking agency Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Ranking 2024: Asia features 148 Universities from India in the Asia overall list which has 857 Universities being listed in total. There are 37 new entries from India compared to last year’s report, which is significantly more than only seven new entries from China. Peking University from China retains its top-most position, this year too. A total of seven Indian institutions feature in the top 100 ranks of QS World University Rankings: Asia; of which five are IITs, whereas other two include Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore and Delhi University.

Being 4th among all the IITs in the country, IIT Kharagpur has performed well in parameters like international research network, papers per faculty, employer and academic reputation and staff members with PhD.

Successful implementation of Technology Vision 2047 as instituted by our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi require participation of several stakeholders including government agencies, public and private enterprises, academic and research organizations. We have to acquire the opportunity in digital economy space and biomedical engineering fostering technological expansions by creating the human-machine synergy that would set the future technology development agenda for the developed India, added Prof. Tewari. 

By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer)
Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007

Follow us on: Facebook – IIT Kharagpur; Twitter – @IITKgp;  Instagram – @iit.kgp; LinkedIn – Indian Institute of Technology
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“All glories come from the daring to just begin” – SHAURYA ’23 at IIT Kharagpur

A Glimpse from the Table Tennis Tournament in Full Swing

One of the biggest sports tournament of the country ‘Shaurya ’23, themed ‘Shadow Warrior,’ recently concluded at IIT Kharagpur, leaving behind a trail of excitement, innovation, and intense competition. The festival which was entirely managed by students; held within the iconic IIT Kharagpur campus, has undoubtedly set a new standard for excellence. This edition of Shaurya went above and beyond, featuring a diverse range of competitions catering to both male and female participants.

The events showcased a wide array of sports, including cricket, volleyball, basketball, hockey, athletics, badminton, football, lawn tennis, table tennis, chess, and powerlifting. Prior to the main festivities, Shaurya also hosted engaging pre-event activities like the Shaurya Cube Open, National Sports Quiz, Knuckle Pushups Challenge, Skipathon, Dutch Grand Prix Live Stream, Asia Cup India Vs Pak Live Stream, and the Shaurya Yoga Quest Challenge.

A Glimpse from the Hockey Tournament

IIT Kharagpur’s exceptional infrastructure and sports facilities, including their state-of-the-art Student Activity Centre with its multiple courts and fields, provided an ideal setting for the diverse competitions. The festival, boasting over 15 titular sports events, transcended beyond the realm of sports, incorporating guest lectures, recreational activities, and non-sporting events such as marathons and F1 simulations. The event aspired to be the pinnacle of sports for both our present and future generations.

In a dazzling display of sportsmanship and talent, the Shaurya Sports Fest 2023 at IIT Kharagpur concluded with thrilling victories and unforgettable moments. The campus was alive with the spirit of competition as participants from various institutes showcased their prowess in a variety of sports. Let’s delve into the highlights of some of the most riveting events that left a lasting impression on spectators.

A Glimpse from the Basketball Tournament

Shaurya Table Tennis Tournament Finals: A Battle to Remember

The finals of the Shaurya Table Tennis Tournament set the stage for a captivating showdown between IIT Kharagpur’s A team and that of St. Xavier’s. The match was a rollercoaster of high-stakes rallies and intense action, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats. The game remained neck-and-neck until the last set. But in the end, it was St. Xavier’s that emerged victorious, claiming the title in a dramatic fashion that will be etched in the memories of all who witnessed it.

Shaurya Powerlifting Championship: Vivek Singh Nainwal Dominates

The 2023 Shaurya Powerlifting Championship concluded with a display of unparalleled strength and determination. Participants showcased exceptional performances, but it was Vivek Singh Nainwal from IIT Kharagpur who stole the spotlight. His remarkable feats in the competition earned him the title of the ‘Best Lifter’, leaving a powerful mark on the championship and inspiring all present.

A Glimpse from the Spring Tournament

Lawn Tennis Excellence: Mayank Joshi Crowned ‘Best Player’

In the realm of Lawn Tennis, Mayank Joshi from the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur emerged as the shining star. His exceptional skill, consistency, and unwavering determination throughout the tournament culminated in a well-deserved victory, earning him the prestigious title of the ‘Best Player’. Mayank’s performance showcased the true essence of sportsmanship and dedication.

Chess Tournament: A Battle of Minds in the Yoga Room

The Chess Tournament, hosted in the Yoga Room within the Technology Students’ Gymkhana, proved to be a cerebral spectacle. It was a platform that highlighted the competitive spirit and strategic prowess of the participating teams. The event underscored the importance of fostering intellectual pursuits and healthy competition within the academic community.

Shaurya Volleyball Tournament: A Celebration of Sportsmanship and Skill

The 2023 Shaurya Volleyball Tournament was a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship, featuring remarkable performances and unforgettable moments that will be cherished for years to come. The tournament recognised and honoured the ‘Best Players’ in the form of Shadik from Sarala Birla University and Mythri T G from IIT Kharagpur, acknowledging their outstanding contributions to the competition. Congratulations to all participants, winners, and teams for their dedication and commitment.

Shaurya Cricket Tournament: Soumya Basak Shines as the Player of the Tournament

The 2023 Shaurya Cricket Tournament echoed with the sounds of cricketing brilliance and camaraderie, honouring Soumya Basak from St. Xavier’s as the ‘Player of the Tournament’. Soumya’s exceptional performances left an indelible mark on the tournament, showcasing not only individual skill but also a true passion for the game. Congratulations to all participants, winners, and teams for their dedication and spirited play.

A Glimpse of the Marathon Event

Shaurya Football Tournament: Nitin Rohit Emerges as the Player of the Tournament

The 2023 Shaurya Football Tournament unfolded as a saga of skill, teamwork, and pure passion for the beautiful game. The tournament honoured Nitin Rohit from IIT Kharagpur A as the ‘Player of the Tournament’, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the team’s success. Congratulations to all participants, winners, and teams for their dedication and outstanding performances on the football field.

In conclusion, the Shaurya Sports Fest 2023 at IIT Kharagpur was a resounding success, celebrating not just physical prowess but also the intellectual and strategic acumen of its participants. As the campus echoed with the cheers and memories of this spectacular event, it’s clear that Shaurya has once again proven to be a stage for champions to shine – a sporting extravaganza to remember!

Media Partner : Telegraph 

Inputs by : Prajay and Ushasri Gunpuru, Students, IIT Kharagpur 

Edited By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer)
Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007

Follow us on: Facebook – IIT Kharagpur; Twitter – @IITKgp;  Instagram – @iit.kgp; LinkedIn – Indian Institute of Technology
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IIT Kharagpur develops cutting-edge technology to reduce Red Mud by Alumina refining

IIT Kharagpur and Vedanta Aluminium have developed a process to significantly reduce the generation of bauxite residue, commonly known as red mud, in the alumina refining process. The patented process reduces bauxite residue by a remarkable 30 per cent by eliminating iron values while simultaneously recovering a higher alumina yield, reducing the total organic content of bauxite during the alumina refining. The process significantly enhances resource efficiency and curbs energy consumption during refining. The project was led by the Research and Development Department of Vedanta, the country’s leading aluminium producer, in collaboration with the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, IIT Kharagpur.

Red Mud is produced as a result of the bauxite-to-alumina processing through the Bayer process. The production of every 1 tonne of aluminium results in the generation of 3.3 tonnes of red mud, the sustainable management of which has been a long-standing challenge for the industry. Vedanta Aluminium is actively engaged in various initiatives aimed at minimizing bauxite residue, while also exploring avenues to extract value from the same. The company’s newly developed process represents a significant and revolutionary advancement in tackling the challenges associated with the utilization of red mud in the future. The pioneering development has undergone successful validation in laboratory settings and has completed the patent process. Currently, the company is forced to establish a pilot plant to implement and access the process, along with determining the potential advantages.

“The reduction of bauxite residue has been one of the key challenges for the aluminium industry, requiring significant technological advancements. The process, developed through the collaborative efforts, will not only significantly improve bauxite residue management but also contribute to reducing the carbon footprint in the process,” said Prof. Chenna Rao Borra, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering of IIT Kharagpur.

Bauxite is the primary ore for aluminium, and it undergoes an intermediate refining stage, known as the Bayer process, to produce alumina which is then subjected to electrolysis to produce aluminium. This refining process generates bauxite residue as a by-product. To produce 1 kg of aluminium, it requires 2 kg of alumina, which consumes 6 kg of bauxite, leaving behind 4 kg of bauxite residue. Managing this voluminous by-product sustainably has been a long-standing industry challenge.

“We look forward to implementing our groundbreaking process in bauxite residue management in our refinery operations. This is a significant milestone that will offer a pathway to enhanced resource efficiency and energy conservation and contribute towards reshaping the global aluminium industry,” said Amit Chatterjee, Chief Research and Development Officer, Aluminium Business, Vedanta Ltd.

Vendanta Aluminium, the largest aluminium producer in India, has announced developing process to reduce generation of bauxite residue, commonly known as red mud by a remarkable 30%by eliminating iron values while simultaneously recovering higher alumina yield from bauxite during the alumina refining. The process significantly enhances resources efficiency and curbs energy consumption during refining. The research project was led by the company’s Research & Development (R&D) department in collaboration with the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, IIT Kharagpur with support of a financial grant from Lanjigarh. Odisha Unit, home to Vedanta’s world-class alumina refinery. The cutting-edge technology will not only enhance the operational excellence of the company, but will also have a sustainable impact on the global aluminium industry.

Media Coverage:

PTI

The Week

Inputs by: Prof. Chenna Rao Borra, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, IIT Kharagpur
Email: chenna.borra@metal.iitkgp.ac.in

Edited By : Poulami Mondal, Digital & Creative Media Executive (Creative Writer)
Email: poulami.mondal@iitkgp.ac.in, media@iitkgp.ac.in, Ph. No.: +91-3222-282007

Follow us on: Facebook – IIT Kharagpur; Twitter – @IITKgp;  Instagram – @iit.kgp; LinkedIn – Indian Institute of Technology
For news visit: https://kgpchronicle.iitkgp.ac.in/