Social Impact – The KGP Chronicle

Empowering Educators With Digital Pedagogy by Centre for Teaching Learning and Virtual Skilling

Is virtual reality teaching possible? How positive impact can digital content have on student assessment? Ahead of Teacher’s Day, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur organized a special one-day workshop to find answers to some of these questions. The Centre for Teaching Learning and Virtual Skilling (CTLVS) at IIT Kharagpur successfully conducted a one-day workshop titled “Empowering Educators With Digital Pedagogy and Technology,” on 4th September 2024. The workshop, aimed at school teachers from KVS, introduced innovative methods for enhancing teaching practices through digital tools and interactive technologies.

A total of 30 teachers from different branches of Kendriya Vidyalayas of Kolkata participated in the workshop titled ‘Empowering Educators with Digital Pedagogy and Technology’. They are taught the ins and outs of improving reading and assessment methods through technology-based teaching.

Apart from this, how using Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality can make teaching interesting for students and how game-based learning methods can be used-these topics were also taught in the day’s workshop. Kaushal Kumar Bhagat, Assistant Professor of Advanced Technology Development Center, one of the organizers of the workshop and Vice Chairman of CTLVS, along with other officials also held a detailed discussion with the participating teachers.

After the workshop, the participating teachers reported that their participation in the program increased their understanding of the use of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality. It also gave students an opportunity to think about how technology can be used to make reading more interesting.

“Strategies have been taught to use realistic technology for assessment. I want to use that method in my teaching as well,” said one of the participating teachers.

When questioned why is this workshop relevant, Prof. Kaushal Kumar Bhagat said that as one of the initiatives of CTLVS, the main aim of this workshop was to teach how teachers can adapt to digital and technological changes in the education sector.

He further said, “The workshop also elaborated on the relevance of using technology in creating an appropriate learning environment. Based on the enthusiasm of the participants, it can be hoped that more teachers will be interested in digital learning in the future.”

Key topics covered during the workshop included:

Digital Pedagogy: Integrating technology to foster more engaging teaching methods.

Assessment and Evaluation: Using digital tools to improve student assessment processes.

Interactive Technologies like AR/VR: Exploring immersive learning experiences through Augmented and Virtual Reality.

Game-based Learning: Engaging students through gamification techniques.

Participants praised the workshop, calling it very informative and useful and emphasizing its practicality in today’s classrooms. One participant noted, “The AR/VR demonstration was eye-opening and gave us fresh ideas on how to engage students.” Another participant said, “The digital tools for assessment were very practical and something I can start using immediately in my own teaching.”

The workshop is part of a broader initiative by CTLVS to support educators in adapting to digital transformations in education and creating more interactive and immersive learning environments.

Media Coverage:

Anandabazar Patrika

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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“Staying Healthy is anything but easy,” said the Gogineni Sisters – The Alumni Story of the Week

Sisters Sudha Gogineni (2010/DD/CH) and Veda Gogineni (2013/DD/BT), both graduates of IIT Kharagpur, left their high-paying corporate careers to address a significant issue in India: Undernutrition. Growing up in a health-conscious household and practicing yoga, the importance of good health was ingrained in them from a young age. However, the demands of their professional lives took a toll on their health, leading to issues like knee pain and fatigue.

Their decade-long corporate story could be anyone’s story. They have worked their way to great jobs, worked incredibly hard, and felt like they had it all. Before, it all began. Their health was slowly but surely, deteriorating. Lack of time and a sedentary lifestyle impacted them in many ways – skin pigmentation, low energy levels, acid reflux, hair loss, back pains. You name it, and they had it. They desperately wanted to fix their health, but the recommendations that came their way were either too synthetic, or too difficult to implement. They were looking for a safe and easy alternative.

“Nutrition supplements were a great solution, but were too synthetic for our liking. But the idea of creating nutrition supplements that were entirely plant based was very appealing to both of us. So, we brought Earthful to life – nutrition supplements that are 100% plant based and pack powerful elements of mother earth.”

When they discovered that 75% of Indians lack at least one essential vitamin, Veda and Sudha knew they had to make a change. Unwilling to rely on synthetic supplements, they began searching for natural alternatives. This journey led to the creation of Earthful, a brand dedicated to 100% plant-based nutrition solutions.

Veda, with a background in biotechnology, had initially pursued a career in investment banking before moving to a high-growth startup, Meesho. Her sister, Sudha, brought her expertise from working in FMCG with ITC Limited and Uber to their new venture. Together, they decided to leave their lucrative jobs to launch Earthful.

“Launching our own business was no easy task. Leaving our high-paying jobs for this was a tough decision. We aimed to create 100% plant-based products, a novel concept in India. To achieve this, we had to scout for experts from various countries to understand and source the right ingredients,” said co-founder Sudha.

“Building a team that shared our vision posed a significant challenge,” said Veda. The challenges seemed endless, but we persisted, trying different approaches each time. We live by Albert Einstein’s words: Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.’ Learning from our mistakes, we succeeded in creating the cleanest products in the market, which now enables us to launch new products more efficiently.”

Their range of natural products include:

MULTIVITAMIN
PLANT PROTEIN
KIDS MILLETS MIX
ZEN MODE
ROOT NOURISH
HER SUPPORT
INNER GLOW

STAYING WELL, NATURALLY

“We are on a mission to eradicate nutrition deficiency, the natural way. Our products are science-backed nutrition supplements that help you stay healthy without breaking a sweat.”

With ambitious goals to become a 500 crore business within the next three years, Earthful aims to significantly improve the health of Indians. It is valued at 13 billion USD and expanding at 17-18% annually.

Visit https://earthful.me/pages/about-us for more

A Financial Express Exclusive

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/

Robotics and Artificial Intelligence for the School Children in Regional Language

Following the mandate of National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), Prof. Dilip Kumar Pratihar, Institute Chair Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department, IIT Kharagpur, has developed one new course on “Robotics and Artificial Intelligence” of 11 hours duration in Regional Language (Bengali) for the School Children starting from Class-9 to Class-12, with the initiative of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute (RKMVERI), Belur Math.

Recently awarded the Fellowship of the Indian National Academy of Engineering (FNAE) and presented the Fellowship Certificate in the Induction Ceremony held as a part of the Annual General Meeting of Fellows on 11th December 2023 at SOA University, Bhubaneswar, Dr. Pratihar developed this online course on Robotics & Artificial Intelligence for School Children in Regional Language i.e. Bengali with the initiative of Vivekdisha , an ICT-based Network of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute (RKMVERI), Belur Math. In future, initiatives will be taken by the RKMVERI, Belur Math, to translate this course to various Regional Languages across the country.

Watch the course live on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiuTvXtM4PTZ0MnbdgqZ0q3XXKCryibsJ

Prof. D K Pratihaar remarked, “This innovative course has already been started, and the students are enjoying and learning from it. With the recent advancements in technological transformations, we cannot only rely on what was once taught to us in terms of science education. Today the students need to be updated with the emerging technology that changes the way we have addressed the rising challenges of the world. The scope for Artificial Intelligence is vast in this technology driven world and the expertise of knowing its applications will be up for grabs in the recent future.”

VASVIK Award 2022 in Mechanical & Structural Sciences & Technology

Prof. Dilip Kumar Pratihar, has received the prestigious Vividhlaxi Audyogik Samshodhan Vikas Kendra (VASVIK) Award 2022, for his notable contributions in Industrial Research, in the field of Mechanical & Structural Sciences & Technology, during its 50th year of celebration held on 19th January 2024 in Mumbai. His significant contributions in Industrial Research include Root causes of failure analysis of Gas Turbine Unit, Pigtail Analysis, Optimal design of Leaf Spring for the heavy vehicles, Root causes of failure analysis of multi-stage Centrifugal Pump, and others, in which the fundamentals of Solid Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics, Combustion, Principle of Gas Turbine, Gas Dynamics, Heat Transfer, Machine Design, and others have been used. He also carries out fundamental research on Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and others, extensively.

This Award is generally given to one person in one year from each of the 10 fields. This time, the VASVIK Award was presented by Dr. R. A. Mashelkar; Prof. M.M. Sharma; Dr. Mohan I. Patel, the Founder of this Award; Mr. Nayan Patel, Director, VASVIK, Prof. A. Pandit, and others.

The Video of the Award Ceremony is available in the You-tube Link: https://youtu.be/YWEcdTbCQNQ

Prof. Dilip Kumar Pratihar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Kharagpur

He has been awarded the “Technologist of the Year,” one of the most prestigious IEEE India Council Award, for his pioneering contributions to the fundamentals and applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Prof. Pratihar made significant contributions in design and development of intelligent autonomous systems in various fields of Engineering Science namely robotics, manufacturing science and others. He has proposed adaptive motion planning schemes for intelligent robots using the principle of soft computing, whose performances have been tested on real robots. In relation to automation in manufacturing processes, he has developed expert systems using soft computing to establish their input-output relationships both in forward and reverse directions. He is also the founder of Soft Computing Lab in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Centre for Excellence in Robotics.

Inputs by: Prof. D K Pratihar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Kharagpur
Email: dkpra@mech.iitkgp.ac.in

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

Yuva Sangam Phase III – IIT Kharagpur hosts 50 students from Madhya Pradesh

The Ministry of Education kick-started the 3^rd phase of Yuva Sangam starting from 21^st to 30^th November, 2023 with a delegation of 50 students belonging to diverse parts of Madhya Pradesh travelling to West Bengal for a cultural and education tour. A nation-wide Student Exchange Programme, as we say might say it, Yuva Sangam under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative endeavours to promote experiential learning and introduces the youth of the country to the rich diversity of our country. It also aims to provide an immersive experience into the unique facets of life, developed landmarks, architectural and engineering marvels, industrial progress and recent achievements in the host state with the focus being on people-to-people connect.

As part of the ongoing phase of Yuva Sangam, exposure tours were conducted throughout November and December 2023 wherein youth comprising mainly of students studying in Higher Educational institutions (HEIs) as also off-campus youngsters in the age group 18-30 years from across the nation traveled to their paired states. Phase 3 witnessed immense vigour and enthusiasm among the participants. This phase takes forth the idea behind this unique initiative under the aegis of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat by the Government of India which intends to not just expand the intellectual horizons of young agents of change but to also sensitizes them to diversity across India so as to channelize their knowledge for a more connected, empathetic and technologically robust India of the future. An initiative by Government of India to strengthen people-to-people connect especially between youth belonging to North Eastern India and other States. Yuva Sangam of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat focuses on conducting exposure tours for the youth and provide an immersive experience of various facets of life, development landmarks, recent achievements and youth connect in the host state. During their visits, the youth had a multi-dimensional exposure under five broad areas – Paryatan (Tourism), Parampara (Traditions), Pragati (Development), Prodyogik (Technology) and ParasparSampark (People-to-people connect).

Yuva Sangam Phase-III had participation from 22 States and UTs with the following Higher Education Institutions paired for the purpose of conducting the exposure tours: Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh-IIT Delhi; IIT Dharwad-IIT Ropar; SPPU Pune-IIT Guwahati; IIT Hyderabad-BHU Varanasi; IIM Trichy-IIIT Kota; IIM Sambalpur-NIT Calicut; IIITDM Jabalpur-IIT Kharagpur; IIIT Ranchi-NIT Kurukshetra; NIT Goa-IIT Bhilai; and IIM Bodhgaya-IIIT Surat.

Being the nodal institute for the programme, IIT Kharagpur was paired with IIITDM Jabalpur where a team of 50 students visited the state of West Bengal. After completing two days of train journey from Madhya Pradesh, the team of 50 students along with their mentors was welcomed at IIT Kharagpur with chocolates, red roses and the much needed refreshing coconut drink to revive themselves for the day long itinerary at IIT Kharagpur. The entourage then embarked on their journey to know the history of the largest IIT of the nation which is an emblem of heritage in itself and is a significant foundation stone of Indian Independence. The team walked through the lustrous green campus of the institute to explore the campus and reached the Old Building of the institute where they visited the Nehru Museum of Science Technology, Indian Knowledge System and Bharat Tirtha. Prof. Richa Chopra, Centre of Excellence for Indian Knowledge Systems gave them a vivid description about the foundations of the institute, explaining them the medieval art that transfused into the science of today. Later, the students watched the film on Shaheed Bhavan and Hijli Detention Camp in IIT Kharagpur that played a significant role in Indian Independence Movement. The entire team next visited to Gongoni Danga which is a natural canyon situated near the town of Garbeta, in the Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal, India. Prof. Amit Patra, Deputy Director, IIT Kharagpur interacted with the students from Madhya Pradesh under the auspices of Yuva Sangam Phase 3. The students had an enriching experience when Prof. Patra explained them the cultural diversity of West Bengal as a state along with its active participation in the Indian Independence Movement.

The next day, the entourage visited the birthplace of Khudiram Bose named Mohobani in Paschim Medinipur and sang the very patriotic song, “Ek Baar Bidya de Maa Ghure Ashi,” paying a tribute to the youngest Freedom Fighter of the Indian Independence Movement. Next the students visited the Plant of JSW Cement where they were briefed by the JSW employees regarding the entire operations of a cement factory. The day concluded with their visit to the Gangani canyon, widely known as “Grand Canyon of Bengal” which is a famous tourist spot situated by the town of Garhbeta of Paschim Medinipur district at a distance of 55 Km from Midnapore Town. It comprises of natural hills around the River Shilabati, locally known as “Shilai River”. The rains and seasonal variations, over time, have resulted in the formation of spectacular geological structures.

The team next started off its trip to Mayapur which is a neighbourhood of Bamanpukur, in the Nabadwip CD block in the Krishnanagar Sadar subdivision of the Nadia district, West Bengal, India. It’s situated at the confluence of the Jalangi River and the Bhagirathi, a tributary of the Ganges. They also visited Mogolmari, a village and an archaeological excavation site in the Dantan II CD block in the Kharagpur subdivision of the Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal where the students explored the village life of West Bengal and got a first-hand experience of the basics of how agricultural land is prepared for ploughing. The next destination of the team was Sabang, where they learned the skill of hand-weaving of “Madur” (Mat) and met Mr. Dharnidhar Jana, also known as The Madur Man, who is also the recipient of Rashtrapati Puraskar from Talda Gram Sabang. The students were given a live demonstration on the Madur Mat Weaving process done at the Talda village, located in Sabang Subdivision of Paschim Medinipur district. The next destination was Bishnupur and Bakura where the students explored the unique articrafts and handicrafts of Bishnupur made with Terracotta which means ‘baked earth.’ It has been used to produce decorative art works as well as construction works since ancient times. All the heritage building in Bishnupur and Bakura contains encryption of these exclusive art forms. As an adieu from IIT KGP, a cultural night was organized by the Yuva Sangam team at IIT Kharagpur where the students and professors were engaged in a cultural exchange of soulful musical performances.

The team of Madhya Pradesh then embarked on their journey to Kolkata, the city of joy. After exploring richness of rural Bengal, they went to taste the flavours of Kolkata, the cultural capital of India. First the team went to Victoria Memorial which is a large marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria, the Empress of India facing the Queens Way on the Maidan in Central Kolkata. It is the largest monument to a monarch anywhere in the world. It stands at 64 acres of gardens and is now a museum under the control of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Possessing prominent features of the Indo-Saracenic architecture, it has evolved into one of the most popular attractions in the city.

The next destination for the team was the visit to Dakshineswar temple which is a Hindu navaratna temple in Dakshineswar, Kolkata. Situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the presiding deity of the temple is Bhavatarini, a form of Parashakti Adya Kali, also known as Adishakti Kalika. The student then enjoyed the scenic beauty of Ganges through the ferry ride from Dakshineshwar temple to Belur Math and also had the famous prasad at the ISKON Temple in Kolkata. The entourage than visited Nawadip, a heritage city in Nadia district in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is regarded as a holy place by Hindus, and is the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Finally the students concluded their journey by immersing their taste buds with the famous “Phucka” (Panipuri) of Kolkata and were blown away by its exquisite taste and texture. The team of IIT Kharagpur including Prof. Bharagb Maitra, Dean Student Affairs along with Prof. Chirodeep Bakli, Prof. Swati Maitra, Prof. Shuvro Prosun Sarker, Prof. Bharat Aithal, Prof. Manish Kaushal, Prof. Aritra Chatterjee, Prof. Sudeshna Koley, Prof. Gargi Gargate, Prof. Avishek Chatterjee, Prof. Suverna Trivedi and the entire team of Yuva Sangam at IIT Kharagpur, worked day and night to make Madhya Pradesh team’s experience a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Their hard work and dedication made this programme a grand and great success.

After the success of being a host, now it was time to be an Atithi to IIITDM Jabalpur. 50 students from the different universities of West Bengal were flagged off by Prof. V K Tewai, Director, IIT Kharagpur to explore Madhya Pradesh as a part of Yuva Sangam Phase III activity. The students learned about Bhil art from a young student in the railway station and explored places like Khajurahu, the Dhuadhar Falls, Maiyaar temple and also witnessed Narmada Aarti.

Under the aegis of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat – Yuva Sangam stood out as an example of cultivating the youth of this country so that they are aware of its origins, the country where he/she comes from and the country he/she will lead as the future stakeholders. Once called the “Golden Sparrow,” by the rest of the world, India shines with its beauty in diversity. Now emerging as the largest growing economy of the world, India upholds its rich legacy and cultural uniformity to establish the notion of Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat by educating and upgrading the youth of this great nation through the platform of Yuva Sangam.

Takeaways:

From the Ganges to the Dhuadhar: A Yuva Sangam Journey of Discovery shares Asirul Parwez, one of the students from the West Bengal Contingent to Madhya Pradesh

“Jabalpur, our gateway to Madhya Pradesh, embraced us with the warmth of its people and the aroma of its delectable street food. Our homestay, a traditional haveli with intricately carved arches and a courtyard bathed in moonlight, became our haven. Days were filled with exploration. We delved into the historical tapestry of Rani Durgavati’s fort, its ramparts whispering tales of valor. The marble splendor of the Teen Murti Temple, bathed in the golden glow of dawn, left us awestruck. And evenings were for exchanging stories, learning the rhythmic beats of Karma dances, and sharing laughter over steaming cups of chai. Our Yuva Sangam journey wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was about forging connections. We bonded with the locals, learning their dialects, savoring their culinary delights, and sharing stories that transcended cultural boundaries. We discovered the vibrancy of Jabalpur’s street markets, bargained for trinkets with mischievous smiles, and danced to the pulsating rhythm of dhol beats. Each interaction, each shared laugh, chipped away at the barriers of geography and language, weaving a tapestry of understanding. The Yuva Sangam experience was more than just a trip; it was a transformation. It broadened my horizons, challenged my preconceptions, and filled my heart with a newfound appreciation for the diverse tapestry of India. I returned not just with souvenirs and photographs, but with a suitcase brimming with memories, friendships, and a deeper understanding of my own nation. The echoes of the Dhuadhar falls, the warmth of Jabalpur’s hospitality, and the laughter of my newfound friends – these are the souvenirs I will cherish forever, a testament to the transformative power of Yuva Sangam,”

Yuvaa Sangam Journey: A Cultural Odyssey from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh says Pamit Dutta, one of the students from the West Bengal Contingent to Madhya Pradesh

“The journey commenced with a trip to Kharagpur, a city synonymous with academic excellence. From Kolkata to Kharagpur, the transition marked the beginning of our cultural sojourn, paving the way for the diverse experiences that awaited us. The train journey from Howrah to Kharagpur offered glimpses of the diverse landscapes of West Bengal. Passing through quaint villages and lush fields, the scenery painted a vivid picture of the varied beauty within the state. Reaching IIITDM Jabalpur was a continuation of our cultural odyssey. The hospitality extended by the institute and the warmth of the locals amplified the sense of belonging, reinforcing the idea that unity in diversity is the heartbeat of our nation. The stay in Jabalpur became a hub of cultural exchange. From traditional dance performances to interactive sessions, every moment was an opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Indian culture. A visit to Dhuadhar Falls brought about goosebumps as the cascading waters reflected the raw power and beauty of nature. The ropeway adventure, though at times both creepy and crazy, offered breathtaking views and a rush of adrenaline that added an adventurous twist to our cultural exploration. Navigating the ropeway presented a mix of emotions—creepy yet exhilarating, crazy yet awe-inspiring. It was a test of courage that, in retrospect, became a highlight of the trip, symbolizing the unexpected thrills that come with cultural exploration. In conclusion, the Yuvaa Sangam trip transcended its role as a government-organized cultural excursion. It became a chapter in my life filled with discovery, friendship, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse geography that makes India truly unique. The journey, from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh, was a celebration of unity in diversity, leaving an indelible mark on my cultural consciousness.”

Crossing Bridges : A Yuva Sangam Voyage from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh remarks Sana Sajjad, one of the students from the West Bengal Contingent to Madhya Pradesh

“Each passing landscape was a brushstroke on our collective canvas. Emerald paddy fields gave way to ochre hills, villages painted in terracotta whispering tales of a different India. We learned about Bhil art from a young student on the platform, savored the tangy sweetness of “churma laddoos” offered by an elderly vendor, and danced to impromptu bhangra beats with a group of farmers. The train wasn’t just a mode of transportation; it was a microcosm of India, an ever-changing tapestry woven with laughter, shared stories, and the unspoken language of human connection. Jabalpur, our destination, embraced us with the warmth of a long-lost family. The local university became our home, bustling with activity and bonhomie. Days were filled with explorations; mornings painting our senses with the aroma of spicy jalebis and the echoing chants from an ancient temple, afternoons lost in the labyrinthine corridors of the Rani Durgavati museum, and evenings echoing with impromptu poetry readings and bonfire singalongs. But the most valuable souvenir we brought back was a renewed understanding of India. It wasn’t just about the majestic waterfalls, the intricate temples, or the spicy food. It was about the people we met, the stories we shared, the laughter that echoed across borders and boundaries. We returned to West Bengal carrying within us a piece of Madhya Pradesh, a newfound appreciation for diversity, and a heart brimming with stories waiting to be told.”

Yuvaa Sangam: A Transcendent Journey from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh mentions Subhankar Sarkar, one of the students from the West Bengal Contingent to Madhya Pradesh

“Setting off on the Yuvaa Sangam pilgrimage from the verdant regions of West Bengal to the bustling metropolis of Madhya Pradesh was an experience that went beyond simple travel. It was a voyage of self-discovery, cultural absorption, and establishing enduring relationships. My family’s excitement and eagerness were evident as soon as I learned about this thrilling journey, laying the groundwork for an amazing time. Once we arrived in Madhya Pradesh, the surrounding landscapes opened up like pages from a travelogue. My experiences were painted on canvases by the architectural magnificence of Khajuraho, the spiritual vibes of Maihar, and the historical richness of Chitrakoot. Every location made a lasting impression and added to the mosaic of recollections that characterized the Yuva Sangam tour. I realize that the Yuva Sangam trek from West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh was more than just a travel experience; it was a life-changing adventure that enhanced the fabric of my being. It was an ode to the friendships made with other travelers as well as a celebration of diversity and a dance of cultures. The memories I made on this voyage are chapters in a book of my personal development, not merely moments captured in time. The Yuva Sangam excursion left a lasting impression on my psyche, serving as a symbolic bridge that connected the East and the heart of India.”

Media Coverage:

PTI	Times of India	Statesman
PIB	India Today	The Week
Humming Birds	Amader Bharat	KGP News

Times of India The Statesman

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

Effective Roadmap on Speed Management Policy for Safer Roads

The civil engineering department of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur, along with Paribahan Bhawan, transport department headquarters on R N Mukherjee Road, launched a study document on policy interventions and roadmap for effective implementations of speed management in the city and districts in a programme scheduled on 9th January 2024.

Transport Minister Snehashis Chakraborty; State Transport Secretary Saumitra Mohan; Director-Transport; Secretary -School Education; Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic)-Kolkata Traffic Police; Inspector General of Police- West Bengal Police; Regional Officer-National Highways Authority of India; Joint Secretary-Urban Development; other dignitaries and Prof. Bhargab Maitra of IIT Kharagpur launched the document. After a thorough study of more than two years since 2022, the IIT Kharagpur has prepared the roadmap making recommendations on maximum speed limits of vehicles plying on different National Highways (NHs), state highways (SHs), and other roads under local administrations in the state.

For the first time, the state transport department is all set to limit maximum speed of vehicles plying across the state to prevent an increase in the number of deaths caused by road accidents.

“The state transport department has accepted our document and roadmap on how to prevent road accidents and deaths in our state. The purpose of this move is to communicate the idea of prevention and control speed so that the number of accidents comes down. Common people will get benefits once recommendations made by us are implemented by the state government,” added Prof. Bhargab Moitra, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Kharagpur and transport specialist who was the lead expert of the study.

The document revealed that speeding vehicles are the single largest cause of road accidents in the state, which records 6,000 deaths every year on an average. The state also ranks 11 in terms of deaths caused by fatal road accidents in the country that comes in the top in the world considering the highest number of 450 deaths daily.

It also threw light on how speed and accident fatality are scientifically inter-related. For instance, maximum speed for a motor vehicle should not cross 30 kmph in roads close to markets, schools, hospitals etc., and have capped the speed limits for all vehicles at 50km/hr on major arterial roads, where pedestrians, two-wheeler-riders and non-mechanized transport are largely protected or segregated from motorized and speedier modes of traffic.

On a separate segment of urban roads, which does not require a speed limit of 30 km/hr but does not qualify for 50 km/hr speed limits either. Vehicles can be allowed 40 km/hr, the document states that for long, elevated corridors or at-grade segments, where there is no pedestrian or bicyclist, no roadside friction no buses and trucks, and where two-wheelers are separated a higher speed limit may be accepted for cars and similar light vehicles. But the speed for two-wheelers should be restricted to not beyond 50 km/hr said the document, which is largely applicable for urban roads.

“The safe speed limit is also a function of traffic volume and therefore, might be lower under high volume to capacity ratio, the experts have argued stating why two separate maximum speed regimes can be followed. Under some extreme conditions, the safe speed limit might be even lower than that recommended in front of schools, “Therefore, drivers must apply their discretion and bring down the speed under such conditions,” said Prof. Maitra.

The report also talks of faulty use of traffic tools in front of schools and why it is necessary to use scientific and why it is necessary to use scientific and modern road designs in front of school gates. “Several speed management and traffic calming measures across all types of roads such as speed breakers and rumble strips which are already existing are inappropriate in many ways and are not effective and in many cases are acting as safety hazards. To determine their appropriateness in terms of suitability, design, and placement, extensive audit of the existing speed management and traffic-calming measures is very necessary. This is all the more true for roads in front of schools,” said an expert.

“Besides speed limits, modifications in infrastructure plan and design features should be used to produce a ‘self-explaining road’. Road development authority should be continuously involved in improving the road engineering aspects to make the roads safer in the schools,” the note states. The document reportedly also stressed on the use of speed governors on all vehicles carrying school students.

Speed limits in roads where pedestrians are not protected properly should also be restricted strongly by law enforcing authorities. There should be highend electronic-based evidence systems to monitor speed limits so that police can take proper action against speeding vehicles, the document recommends. Police personnel should be more responsible to take strong actions against speeding vehicles after verifying electronic-based evidence.

In 2022, the share of road crash fatalities due to speeding in the state is found to be 32.3%. Around 70% of the fatalities include pedestrians, cyclists and motorcycle riders, who share the same road space as high-speed vehicles effective speed management becomes a matter of necessity as a means of reducing road crashes and fatalities, were shared in the document.

Media Coverage:

Times of India	Telegraph	Statesman
Millennium Post	News 18	ETV Bharat
Ananda Bazar Patrika

Follow up articles:

Times of India – https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/iit-study-recommends-lower-vehicle-speed-in-school-zones-during-opening-hours/articleshow/106745023.cms
Statesman – https://www.thestatesman.com/bengal/safe-corridors-to-minimise-road-accidents-1503258034.html

Study By : Prof. Bhargab Maitra, Dept. of Civil Engineering, IIT Kharagpur
Email: bhargab@civil.iitkgp.ac.in

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/

Empowering Educators and Fostering Scientific Growth on Molecular Biology in Rural Areas

Rural Science Education Training Utility Program (RuSETUP) Workshop on Molecular Biology Techniques in Rural Areas

In the pursuit of promoting basic scientific knowledge in molecular biology and enhancing the educational landscape in rural West Bengal, India, a workshop on, “Basic Training on Molecular Biology Techniques for College Teachers in Rural Areas” was successfully conducted on the 6th and 7th of October 2023 jointly by School of Medical Science and Technology (SMST), IIT Kharagpur and Indian National Young Academy of Science (INYAS) under the banner of INYAS’ flagship event “Rural Science Education Training Utility Program’ (RuSETUP).

This endeavor was led by Dr. Budhaditya Mukherjee and Dr. Nishant Chakravorty, faculty members of SMST and Members of INYAS and supported by all INYAS East Zone members. The workshop was attended by 14 college teachers hailing from various institutions of Paschim Medinipur, including Hijli College, Kharagpur College, Medinipur College, K.D. College of Commerce and General Studies, and Vidyasagar Institute of Health.

The RuSETUP workshop was designed to address a pressing issue in rural education – the lack of access to cutting-edge knowledge and technologies in molecular biology. In an era where this field rapidly evolves and impacts diverse sectors such as biotechnology, medicine, and agriculture, it is imperative that educators are equipped with the latest insights and tools. Recognizing this, the workshop comprised a meticulously crafted agenda, blending theory and hands-on training, ensuring that participants gained practical experience in essential molecular biology techniques.

The workshop was inaugurated with motivating words by Dr. Rajendra Singh Dhaka, Chair, INYAS and Prof. Soumen Das, Chairperson, SMST & Officiating Dean, BCRMMRC. The events encompassed a series of enriching activities, including engaging lectures and hands-on training by SMST faculty and student volunteers Shatarupa Bhattacharya, Debolina Manna, Supratim Pradhan, Souradipa Ghosh, Subhangi Chakraborty and Mandrita Mukherjee.

The core of the workshop was in the hands-on training sessions. Participants actively engaged in practices like Plasmid DNA isolation, Genomic DNA extraction, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and Agarose gel electrophoresis. These skills are pivotal for scientific exploration and were tailored to empower college teachers with the practical knowledge to enrich their teaching methods. Dr. Praphulla Chandra Shukla, Assistant Professor, SMST concluded the proceedings of the workshop on the second day. The participants highly valued the workshop and expressed a strong desire for additional workshops. They also requested opportunities for students from rural colleges to directly participate in events like these.

The impacts of this workshop reach far beyond its immediate audience. By equipping these dedicated educators with advanced molecular biology techniques, RuSETUP ensures a ripple effect, ultimately benefitting the students they teach. As they return to their respective colleges, they will be armed with the latest knowledge and practical skills, thereby enhancing the quality of science education in rural areas.

By nurturing an interest in the fields of biotechnology, medicine, and agriculture at the grassroots level, RuSETUP indirectly contributes to the development of the entire region. This growth not only creates a knowledgeable workforce but also ignites the spark of curiosity in the young minds, encouraging them to pursue higher studies and research in these critical domains.

This RuSETUP workshop on,”Basic Training on Molecular Biology Techniques for College Teachers in Rural Areas” marks a success in the realm of rural science education and exemplifies the power of collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision to uplift educational standards in underserved communities. The event has illuminated a path towards a brighter, more scientifically enriched future for all.

Inputs by: Prof. Nishant Chakravorty, School of Medical Science &Technology, IIT Kharagpur
Email : nishant@smst.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/

National Award for Prof. Suman Chakraborty on Teachers Day 2023

Teaching is much more than just imparting knowledge, it is an inspiring change. Learning is more than absorbing facts, it is acquiring understanding. When we recall our own education, we remember the teachers not methods and techniques. The belief of a teacher on his/her student can make them achieve wonders. Teachers are the root of an education system and can change lives with just the right mix of chalk and challenges. Teaching is the profession that teaches us all the other professions. On this momentous occasion of Teachers Day 2023, Prof. Suman Chakraborty, a professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the IIT Kharagpur has been selected for the National Awards to Teachers 2023.

If you can simplify the technology, you don’t need a doctor or a highly qualified technician to work on the technology; even an Asha Health Worker or a similar front line health worker can use it with minimal training,’ said Prof. Suman Chakraborty, a professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the IIT Kharagpur, who has been selected for the National Awards to Teachers 2023 by the Ministry of Education, Department of Higher Education, Government of India.

Your research has been on developing devices that would help rural healthcare. Is there any particular incident that caught your attention to this often neglected area?

If you look at the journey of any researcher, you will see there are certain things which happen by chance, rather without much planning. You develop certain insights from experience and that direct you to one particular direction. That is the case with me too. I worked on micro fluidics and its applications on healthcare, but not particularly focusing on rural healthcare. Though at IIT Kharagpur where I work has a township, it is basically located in a rural area. There is a railway station here and if you go beyond the railway station, the scenario is totally different. It is like any other rural area you see in India. It is difficult not to notice the huge contrast and difference between the kind of facilities and access to facilities we have at IIT and a place that is just a kilometre away from IIT. People there do not have either affordability or accessibility to healthcare, or a combination of these two.

It was a disturbing scenario…

Definitely. It still is disturbing. The focus of our work has always been on medical diagnostics, but when I noticed this disturbing disparity, we shifted our focus to the under-served sections of our society. That means, the technologies we use now can be used in the field and not in labs where you have air-conditioning, refrigeration and high-end machines. We have tried to solve the problem in some way, but we are yet to come out with a robust solution that will solve the problem completely. Yes, we could solve it in such a way that it is better than what it was earlier. If you look at the technological developments in healthcare, they are done with the assumption that everybody can afford it. You have these high-end labs and diagnostic centres manned by qualified technicians and doctors in big hospitals which are not accessible to everyone. Even if they are accessible, not many can afford them.

Reports say 80% of doctors in India work in urban areas. Do you think technology alone can solve a lot of healthcare deficiencies in rural areas?

Technology alone cannot solve the problem entirely, but most of it. If you can simplify the technology, you don’t need a doctor or a highly qualified technician to work on the technology; even an Asha health worker or a similar front line health worker can use it with minimal training.

Does that mean you were simplifying the technology so that they can use it in the rural areas?

Yes. That’s where the challenge comes; simplifying the technology without compromising on the performance. When you simplify technology, there is always a danger of compromising on accuracy. So, what we were developing had to be simple yet accurate and also cost-effective. Initially, you cannot go for simplification of technology as as you may miss some scientific components. It is a two-step process for us. First, we develop the technology in the lab so that we will know the nitty-gritties of the technology. Then, we move on to simplifying it.

Can you give us an example? For example, you have developed a device to check the haemoglobin level of individuals in the field and not in the lab…

There is a classical test used in all the labs which can be manual, semi-automated or fully automated. What we did was, we tried to understand the principle and then implement the principle on a piece of paper. We use just one drop of blood from the finger onto to a strip of paper and get the result within a minute. The amount of reagent we use also is very less, thus reducing the cost. What we do is, design the paper in such a way that the same principle we use in labs works on the paper too, that is the same chemistry and same reaction.

Is it an ordinary paper?

It’s a filter paper. When you compare the results of the test done on the paper and also in a lab, you will see that the results are more or less the same.

Is it for the initial diagnosis that these kits are used?

You can treat it as good as any standard lab test. The next step after the test is, take a picture of the colour of the blood to check the level of haemoglobin. For that, we keep the strip in a box, and with the help of a smart phone camera, the picture of the image is taken. Then the analysis of the colour of the blood is done by the app that is formatted in the phone. The image analysis and interpretation is done automatically by the phone and the person taking the test doesn’t have to do anything. Remember we do not expect the person, taking the test, for example as Asha worker to know anything about the technology. When the result comes on the app interface, it will be accessible to any doctor who is sitting in a big city. Like you said, 80% of the doctors are located in the urban areas. After looking into the test result and the patient’s history, the doctor can immediately give the first level of recommendation. For example, if the haemoglobin level is extremely low, and the patient requires an immediate blood transfusion, the caregiver can take him to a place where the patient can be administered blood. If it is only mild anaemia, the doctor may prescribe medicine or dietary changes.

Prof. Suman Chakraborty and researchers at IIT-Kharagpur are developing a technology to source electricity from clothes drying in open space

Was this the first device you developed?

The first one was to test the glucose level in the blood. The glucometer that is generally used by people is quite expensive for a person living in the rural area. We also developed another device to check the creatinine level as kidney is the first organ that gets affected by uncontrolled diabetes. Then, we have a device to check the lipid profile. We have this belief that only people in the urban areas suffer from high cholesterol. No, those in the rural areas also are affected. The diseases which we previously thought to be associated with urbanisation are there in the rural areas also because of the life style changes. Diabetes affects rural India more because they lack facilities to check the sugar level periodically. The idea behind all our inventions are, there is a need for early detection of diseases.

Do you use the same paper strip for all the tests, for example for haemoglobin, creatinine and glucose?

The paper is the same but we use different reagents for different tests.

Can we say almost all the common diseases are tackled at the preliminary stage through your devices?

Yes, you can say that. We have devices for these basic tests. Then we also have devices to diagnose infectious diseases like flu with which we can diagnose TB also which is a major disease in rural India. We use molecular diagnostics for infectious diseases which is one of the most difficult diagnostic technologies. But we have created a portable device which is an alternative to the RT-PCR machine. This machine we developed during the covid time is named COVIRAP. This machine is a 1ft x 1ft x 1ft box and it can perform the test like an RT-PCR machine, and the test results can be known within 40-45 minutes. Though we developed it for covid tests during the covid period, subsequently we use it influenza test. Now, we use it to detect TB. The advantage is, you can use the same device to do different tests by using different strips of paper with different reagents.

You have also developed a device to detect oral cancer…

If you notice, the device we spoke about earlier require body fluids to test. The device we developed to detect oral cancer does not require any body fluid; it is done through imaging. Though there are several reasons for oral cancer, majority of the patients are tobacco or gutka users, and they belong to the group who do not have access to early detection or care. If detected early, any ulceration in the mouth can be prevented from becoming cancer by changing their lifestyle. A large number of people could be saved if it is detected early. What we have developed is a device which looks like a torch with a thermal camera with which we can take the picture of any ulceration inside the mouth.The image we grab from inside the mouth is temperature at different points. The algorithm we have developed will convert the temperature into showing the blood flow in the area. If there is cancer in an area, new blood vessels grow (angiogenesis). There will be a significant change in the blood flow pattern in an area when there is cancer or pre-cancer.

You have used AI (Artificial Intelligence) in all your devices. How important is AI in developing devices like these?

AI is very important particularly in the healthcare space as there is a lot of difference between one person to another. Every human being is different. Health issues are also very personalised and you see variations in every person. In the normal conditions itself, even the physical appearance of say, the inside of the mouth of one person is different from another person. With the help of AI, we can predict the individual variations more accurately.

Do you consider what you are doing as part of your responsibility towards society?

Of course. Social responsibility can be addressed in different ways by different people. This is the way people working science and technology can impart their responsibility to society. What we are doing is not even 10% of what is needed. We have only introduced the technology; it has to be a part of the healthcare system and not present in an isolated manner here and there. And it cannot be done by the efforts of one or two individuals; it has to be a national movement and part of the entire system.

Some Major Awards & Accolades :

The Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award in 2013.
The J C Bose Fellowship in 2018.
The G D Birla Award in 2021.
The Infosys Prize in 2022.
National Award for Teachers 2023.

Media Coverage:

The Bengal Post

Anandabazar Patrika

Interview : Courtesy Rediff.Com

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/

IIT Kharagpur conducts a Press Conference on Strategic Implementation Initiatives undertaken by the Institute on NEP 2020

Under the aegis of commemorating the 3rd Anniversary of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, IIT Kharagpur conducted a Press Conference on NEP 2020 on 24.07.2023 (Monday) at 11:00 am in Netaji Auditorium of the Institute. The press conference was chaired by Prof. V K Tewari, Director; Prof. Amit Patra, Deputy Director; Prof. M Ramgopal, Dean, FoEA and Shri Amit Jain, Registrar, IIT Kharagpur along with the senior Deans and Head of the Departments on the Strategic Implementation Initiatives on NEP 2020 undertaken at IIT Kharagpur.

IIT Kharagpur has reviewed and updated it curricula for UG Programmes for both the UG and the PG Programmes. During these revisions NEP 2020 has been kept in view and its visions incorporated into the programmes as appropriate in the context of the highly reputed technical and science education programmes of IIT Kharagpur. Some of the major strategic initiatives already undertaken by IIT Kharagpur, in the light of NEP 2020 has been a multidisciplinary research intensive university offering Science, Technology, Management and Law programmes. It is now initiating a new dimension of its multidisciplinarity by starting the MBBS programme in medicine at the B C Roy Institute of Medical Science and Technology. Education System in IIT Kharagpur always emphasised learning of humanities and other disciplines through electives. In the recent UG and PG curricula the choice of electives have been broadened enabling students to choose subjects from all over the institute. Further a new class of programmes called Interdisciplinary Dual Degree Programmes have been introduced in which a student can do a B. Tech and an M. Tech programme.

The UG programmes of IIT Kharagpur had 8 weeks of summer internship. This internship can now be extended to 8 months of research or industry internship for a student. Internship has also been proposed into the PG programme now. The Bachelor’s programme in Technology was already of 4 years. Now all Bachelor’s programmes in Science have also been converted to 4 year’s BS programmes. IIT Kharagpur has set up an International Student Office and is making all efforts to increase the admission of international students in its programmes. Each department will make strategic departmental Development Plans. On the basis of which department/centre/school will develop initiatives, assess their own progress, and reach the goals set therein, which could then become the basis for further funding from the Institute. To study Indian Languages, Art and Culture and quality research in the fields and its integration with engineering, science, humanity and social sciences research, the institute has also set up a Centre of Indian Knowledge System from which such initiative could be started for the interested students with support from the Ministry of Education.

The new 5 year BS-MS programmes offer options for an exit at the end of 4 years. It has also been recognised that students who have to leave for various personal reasons prematurely, from a UG programme after completing a substantial amount of credits shall benefit from an exit option that recognize the competencies gained by the student. Some other possible exit options are in discussion. Entry to UG and PG programmes at the IITs are through rigorous national level tests. It is generally felt that these need to be preserved to retain the standards of the IIT degrees. However, even with these there could be options for entry.

An Academic Bank of Credit shall be established which would digitally store the academic credits earned from various recognized Higher education Intuitions (HEIs) so that the degrees from an HEI can be awarded taking into account credits earned which would be undertaken under the national initiatives by the Ministry. IIT Kharagpur has contributed extensively to NPTEL which is now accepted for earning credits by several institutions of India which are also available globally. In the pandemic, IIT Kharagpur has conducted on-line classes for its own programmes extensively. IIT Kharagpur already has several initiatives for helping out economically deprived students at the national level under a Ministry of Education initiative.

Creation of an autonomous body National Educational Technology Forum (NETF) to provide a platform for the free exchange of ideas on the use of technology to enhance learning, assessment, planning, administration and appropriate integration of technology into all levels of education will be undertaken in the context of the NPTEL programmes and the Swayam platform established under NMEICT. All programmes, courses, curricula, and pedagogy across subjects, including those in-class, online, and in ODL modes as well as student support aims to achieve global standards of quality including its standardization and certification. Mechanism of the course/studies review in the department/centre/school on a regular basis by involving external and internal stakeholders/experts such as Industry, Alumni, Faculty, students, Academia, etc. are being strengthened through programmes like SPARK and GIAN. The new curricula emphasise on involvement of the Industry through projects and course participation.

On the lines of Strategic Implementation Initiatives of IIT Kharagpur on NEP 2020, Prof. V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur remarked, “NEP 2020’s inclusion in the academic curriculum will generate more employment based on the entrepreneurship model of being an employer than an employee. With the multiple entry/exit policy, any student can take a break from their respective courses to gain industry experience and come back to continue his academic curriculum. Another facet that enhances the flexibility of NEP 2020 is the Short Term Certification Courses for developing Short-term and Long-term Training Programs to provide skilling, re-skilling and upskilling opportunities. Learning Science in your own language removes the barrier of language bias and creates inclusivity between culture and technology. This adds value to the Indian education system to improve the universalization of education from pre-school to secondary level with 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in school education by 2030.”

Media Coverage:

PTI	Times of India	India Today
The Hindu Business Line	Ananda Bazar Patrika (Online)	News 18 (English)
News 18 Bangla	CNBC TV	Dainik Jagran (Online)
IBC24	The Bengal Post	Career 360

Free Press Journal	KGP	Edex Live
Times Now	Mirchi9	Jagran Josh

ABP Hindi (Online)

Digital Learning

Republic World

Campus Varta

The Live Nagpur

Mint

Deccan Herald

Education Times

News 18 Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/watch/?extid=WA-UNK-UNK-UNK-AN_GK0T-GK1C&mibextid=2Rb1fB&v=303445562357956

ABP (Print) Bartaman Dainik Jagran (Print)

Coalfield Mirror Medinipur Times

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/

Guru Krupa Foundation (GKF) offers Overseas Research Internships for Summer Scholarship 2023

In collaboration with IIT Kharagpur Foundation, USA (IITKGPF), the Guru Krupa Foundation (GKF) Scholarship was awarded to 11 students of IIT Kharagpur this year. This is the 2nd year that the GKF Scholarship will support the IIT KGP students to carry out their research internship in foreign universities. 10 students were selected by the IIT KGP selection committee for a total scholarship award of $45,000. Each conferred scholarship depends upon the funding received by the student from their host institutions. The GKF scholars are pursuing their summer research internship at premier universities in the USA, UK, Belgium, Canada, and Germany.

Dr. Mukund Padmanabhan
Founder of Guru
Alumnus of IIT Kharagpur

Mukund Padmanabhan received a BS in Electronics and Electrical Communication Engineering from IIT Kharagpur in 1997, and a MS (1989) and PhD (1992) in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Los Angeles. After UCLA, he worked in the area of speech recognition at the IBM T. J. Watson Research Lab where he managed the Advanced Telephony Speech Algorithms group.

Dr. Mukund Padmanabhan, Founder of Guru Krupa Foundation & Alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, the man behind this noble initiative who stated that, “These summer programs definitely add value to IIT KGP academia and it is my pleasure, as an Alumnus, to be able to provide these internships to the current students that will further contribute to their holistic development.” The funds are donated by the KGPian through his Guru Krupa Foundation (GKF) www.gurukrupa.org

Mr. Manav Nitin Kapadnis
Department of Electrical Engineering
IIT Kharagpur

Manav Nitin Kapadnis, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Kharagpur and one of the recipient of this prestigious scholarship remarked, “Receiving the scholarship from GKF was truly a life-changing moment for me. As a student pursuing my passion for advancing the field of artificial intelligence and natural language processing, I was granted the remarkable opportunity to work on improving ChatGPT during my internship at Inria Paris. This invaluable experience has not only broadened my academic horizons but has also provided me with practical knowledge and exposure to cutting-edge research in my field. The financial support provided by GKF has been instrumental in making this transformative journey a reality. The scholarship enabled me to cover the expenses associated with my visit to Paris, including travel, accommodation, and living costs. During my internship at Inria Paris, I had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed researchers and professionals in the field. The opportunity to work alongside experts in the area of natural language processing has been both humbling and inspiring. The guidance and mentorship I received have contributed significantly to my growth as a researcher and have fuelled my passion for advancing the boundaries of AI technologies. I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to the Guru Krupa Foundation for their unwavering commitment to promoting educational and research opportunities for students like me. Your vision and dedication to empowering deserving individuals have had a profound impact on my academic and professional journey. The scholarship has opened doors to new possibilities and has played an instrumental role in shaping my future career trajectory. I am committed to utilizing the knowledge and experiences gained during this internship to make meaningful contributions to the field of artificial intelligence and drive positive change in society.”

After IBM, he pivoted to Wall Street and is currently a partner and researcher at hedge fund Renaissance Technologies in New York. He is the founder and president of the US-based private charitable foundation, the Guru Krupa Foundation that supports the scholarships for research internships for IIT Kharagpur students. Dr. Padmanabhan is the recipient of the Professional Achievement Award from the UCLA Samueli School of Engineering in the year 2019 and the Distinguished Alumnus Award 2021 from IIT Kharagpur.

Shrey Gogia
Department of Physics
IIT Kharagpur

Shrey Gogia, Department of Physics, IIT Kharagpur and another recipient of this prestigious scholarship said, “I am truly grateful to be a recipient of the IIT Kharagpur Foundation Scholarship 2023, conferred by the IITKGP Foundation USA. This scholarship has enabled me to pursue a research internship at one of the leading scientific organisations in Europe: l’Ecole Normale Superieure, Paris, France. My experience here would be essential for my development towards becoming a well rounded physicist by providing exposure to frontier research. I thank the selection committee for this honor. I am also grateful for the generosity of our alumni for establishing this scholarship.”

Apart from the above scholarship, 15 students from departments of Agricultural and Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Biotechnology, Aerospace Engineering and Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur have also been awarded the IIT Kharagpur Foundation Scholarship 2023 funded by IITKGP Foundation USA.

Anirban Chatterjee, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Kharagpur and another recipient of this prestigious scholarship remarked, “I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to receive the esteemed Guru Krupa Scholarship, which has played a pivotal role in supporting my foreign internship. This scholarship provided me with the financial assistance I needed to pursue an international internship in my field of study. As an engineering student, I have always been passionate about gaining hands-on experience in a global setting, and the Guru Krupa Scholarship made this dream a reality. Thanks to the generous support provided by the scholarship, I was able to secure an internship with WMG, University of Warwick in the UK. This opportunity allowed me to immerse myself in a diverse and dynamic work environment, where I was able to learn from industry professionals and gain valuable insights into global research practices. Knowing that an esteemed organization such as yours believed in my potential enough to invest in my future strengthened my resolve to make the most out of this internship opportunity. By providing me with the means to pursue an international internship, you have not only helped me expand my skill set and knowledge but have also empowered me to become a global citizen. The experiences and lessons learned during my internship will undoubtedly impact my future academic and career pursuits in immeasurable ways. Thank you for your continued support of aspiring students like myself. I hope that my success story serves as an inspiration for future scholarship recipients, encouraging them to pursue their dreams fearlessly and embrace the transformative power of education.

IITKGP USA Foundation connects KGP Alumni with their alma mater in the US and Canada with the purpose to facilitate and enhance connection and devotion to their alma mater. Their participation takes place by aiding in the development and improvement of IITKGP by the endowment of funds and extending support towards institutional development, student welfare and community development around the KGP campus.

Prof. V K Tewari, Director, IIT Kharagpur congratulated the recipients saying, “The scholarship has opened doors to new possibilities and played an instrumental role in shaping the future trajectory of meritorious students. This kind of scholarship inspires the students to pursue their passion and gives them a practical notion about research development and implementation of ideas in terms of global industry expertise. I am thankful to Dr. Mukund Padmanabhan and IIT KGP Foundation USA for their such a thoughtful action of generosity that transcended into such inclusive student welfare activity. All the best for all future endeavours.”

Media Coverage:

PTI	Economic Times	Indian Express
News 18	Dainik Jagran	Careers 360
Telegraph	Ananda Bazar Patrika

Dainik Jagran

Inputs from : IIT KGP Foundation and Office of International Relations, IIT Kharagpur
Email : meenakshi@iitkgpfoundation.org and shruti@adm.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/

Action Research Project for Ladies’ Toilet Facility by Mr. Mukul Khandelia & Prof. Somnath Ghosal

IIT KGP Foundation extend their hand to develop health and hygiene facilities for Gopali IM High School, Kharagpur

Just imagine going through your day without access to clean water and a toilet. This is a harsh reality that millions of Indian women face every day. The lack of proper sanitation and hygiene facilities for women in India is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed with immediate effect. Improving access to clean sanitation and providing adequate hygiene facilities in schools and workplaces will empower women and promote gender equality in respective areas of concern. In modern India, where women are driving the workforce by increasingly participating and striving for economic independence, the lack of access to basic sanitation facilities, clean water, and improper feminine hygiene is a hindrance to their growth. Not only does it affect their capability to develop, but also limit their ability to fully participate in society by increasing the rate of female dropouts from school.

Proper toilet facilities are essential for the schools especially when we are still suffering from the abrasive effects of the pandemic. Unfortunately in India, many schools lack the adequate and safe toilets for their students. The Rural Development Centre at IIT Kharagpur conducted a survey at Gopali IM High School near Kolkata to assess the toilet facilities available for students. The survey found several critical issues that require immediate attention to ensure that students have access to safe and hygienic toilets. One of the most significant concern is the lack of toilet facilities for girls. This is a great concern for healthcare and education of the young girls as many girls tend to miss schools due to mensuration. Unfortunately many schools lack proper menstrual hygiene facilities including clean and private places for changing sanitary pads and disposal of used pads.

Funded by US-based IIT Kharagpur Alumnus Mukul Khandelia (B.Tech/CS/1998/Azad), Dr. Somnath Ghosal, Centre for Rural Development & Innovative Sustainable Technology initiated the “Ladies Toilet Project” which stood out as an example towards changing the narrative of societal development in terms of health and hygiene. The objective of the Ladies Toilet Project, according to Dr. Ghoshal, is to build a hygienic toilet facility at one of the co-educational higher secondary schools, located in rural West Medinipur district, to address the issues of school dropouts for female students.

One of the high school student of the Gopali IM High School said, “At the time of periods when I was in school, I really had a tough time. After listening to my problems and many requests the school allowed me to go home as there was no other option. I was in a lot of pain which is why I want the school to take some actions which will make things better for all the girls.”

The student reported the lack of privacy due to the toilets location near the entry gate leading to discomfort and embarrassment for those who use it. Exposure to elements was also the another issue as the toilet lacked the roof, making it difficult to use it rainy or hot weather. Safety and privacy concerns were also prevalent as the open location can lead to harassment and assault. The toilet’s poor construction quality, inadequate ventilation insufficient lightening and unstable structures pose safety risks to the students. Additionally students with disabilities and mobility impairments face challenges with the lack of accessibility such as the absence of ramps, grab bars and other assistive devices. The toilets also lacked basic amenities like tap water, soap and hand sanitizer impacting health and hygiene of the students. Moreover limited availability of toilets led to long waiting times and over crowding particularly during peak periods like recess or lunch time.

The lack of proper sanitation facilities including running water also contributed to unhygienic toilets due to poor maintenance and irregular cleaning. Girls faced further issues from inadequate menstrual hygiene management facilities leading to social stigma around using the toilets with many girls avoiding them all together. After the survey, it was found that the Gopali IM High School is in critical need of improving their toilet facilities to ensure the safety privacy and hygiene of their students. It also highlighted the need for awareness and education around proper hygiene and sanitation practices in schools.

Prof. Somnath Ghoshal
Centre for Rural Development & Innovative Sustainable Technology
IIT Kharagpur

Through this project we are trying develop girls toilet facility at Gopali IM High School to address two important issues – One is to reduce girls’ student drop-out rate from class 7 onwards and two is to increase girls’ student daily school attendance throughout the year. With the help of generous funding from Khandelia family, the Center for Rural Development and Sustainable Technology (CRDIST) at IIT Kharagpur initiated a project to improve the girls’ toilet facilities at the school. In this documentary, we showcase our baseline survey results, the challenges we faced during the initiation of the project, and the expected transformative impact of our efforts. Join us, as we demonstrate the power of Action Research Project in addressing critical social issues, like health and hygiene. We would like to propagate such initiatives more at the rural level if we get some more national and international endowment,” said Dr. Somnath Ghoshal, Assistant Professor, Centre for Rural Development and Innovative Sustainable Technology.

In West Medinipur district of West Bengal where IIT Kharagpur is located, there are 438 co-educational high schools of which 115 are girls high schools. Out of these high schools, 73 schools are located in rural areas and 42 schools are based in municipal areas. Presently, the total number of female students in higher secondary schools are more than two lakhs fifty thousand in this district. The percentage of enrolled female students (13-19 years age-group), out of the total female population of the same age group is 82 percent of the district.

Mr. Mukul Khandelia
Alumnus
B.Tech, Computer Science,1998
IIT Kharagpur

“Thanks to IIT KGP foundation, I feel privileged to be a part of this initiative which promotes the causes of women’s health and education empowering women to shape India’s future,” remarked prominent donor and KGP Alumnus Mr. Mukul Khandelia, B.Tech, Computer Science, IIT Kharagpur. Mr. Khandelia has previously established the Aruna & Ram Gopal Khandelia Innovation Award in his parent’s name at IIT KGP that supports student groups to do innovative projects related to the field of Electronic Product Design (both software and hardware).

As an initial pilot project, Prof. Ghoshal is setting up a modern toilet facility at the Gopali Indranarayan Memorial High School (H.S) which was founded in 1972. There are a total of 750 students at the school of which 370 are girls. Because of a lack of funds, the school has not been able to provide proper toilet facilities to the girls who are always at risk of getting sick due to poor hygiene.

According to the Head of the School, “The adolescent girl students at their specific periodic cycle in a month generally remain absent due to unavailability of proper toilet facilities. This has been a regular problem regarding attendance of girl students every month.”

The socio-economic condition in rural areas of the district are in dire need of financial aid since there are limited livelihood opportunities. Schools located in rural areas are being operated with inadequate and outdated infrastructures including toilets. As a result, the rate of school dropouts, particularly for female students, increases from primary to upper primary and secondary levels. The primary reasons behind this increasing school dropouts for female students are a lack of transport facilities and the deficiency in terms of hygienic toilet facilities.

The need of the hour in terms of hygiene and healthcare for women in India is to improve access to basic sanitation facilities that includes investing in infrastructure such as toilets and water wells, as well as education campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of hygiene along with providing menstrual hygiene management facilities in schools. Other important steps include increasing the number of trained healthcare providers, especially in rural and underprivileged areas, to ensure that women have access to the healthcare they need. Improving the availability and affordability of essential medicines and supplies can also help to ensure that certain conditions are treated at the early stage of treatment. Improvement in basic hygiene and healthcare is necessary to empower women by creating awareness and educating a girl child about correct hygienic measures is the only way to change the attitude of the society towards basic healthcare and hygiene.

Join us on a journey to Gopali I M High School, Kharagpur where we uncover the harsh realities of inadequate sanitation facilities and security issues. Watch this short video about the Ladies Toilet Project produced by Prof. Ghoshal and his team. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2f5CUvAdaQ.

The survey team of the Action Research Project for Ladies’ Toilet Facility comprises of Poulomi Chakraborty, Yasaswini, Sneha, Snehal, Annu Pandey, Simran, Mehak Sharma. IIT KGP Foundation would like to extend its special thanks to Neha & Mukul Khandelia and family for funding the project. The project has been supervised and executed by Dr. Somnath Ghosal, Centre for Rural Development & Innovative Sustainable Technology, IIT Kharagpur.

Contact Person: Prof. Somnath Ghosal, Centre for Rural Development & Innovative Sustainable Technology, IIT Kharagpur
Email : somnath@iitkgp.ac.in

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

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