Rama Krishna Sangem
IInvenTiv-2024, India's largest R& D innovation fair from higher education institutes, concluded its second edition today at the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Hyderabad. A flagship event of the Ministry of Education, IInvenTiv brought together a harmonious convergence of industry stakeholders and academia.
The concluding ceremony of IInvenTiv-2024 marked a significant milestone with the formalization of a Technology Transfer agreement between IIT Hyderabad and E-Spin Nanotech, aiming to pilot the commercial application of Cellulose-based Nanofiber Feminine Hygiene Products. This patented technology, recognized in the United Kingdom, India, and China, effectively addresses two critical challenges: biodegradation and health hazards.
The agreement, signed on 19th January 2024, involved Prof. B.S. Murty, Director, IIT Hyderabad, and Dr. Sandip Patil, Director, E-Spin Nanotech. This milestone perfectly aligns with the vision of the on'ble Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
Nanofibre technology
Speaking about the technology transfer, Prof. Chandra Shekhar Sharma, Lead researcher of the technology and Dean, Sponsored Research & Consultancy, IIT Hyderabad, said, “I am glad to reach to this stage today through IInvenTiv platform. It took us little more time just because nanofiber technology was too premature for industrial scale production when this invention took place.
The two-day event saw engaging panel discussions under each of these domains, fostering profound insights, facilitating knowledge exchange, and igniting collaborative dialogues among industry experts, academicians, and innovators. This convergence aimed at propelling students to new heights of scientific and technological advancements, sowing the seeds for the nation's future. The highlights included: Affordable Healthcare –
This panel discussion delved into discussions surrounding the growth potential within this domain. Agriculture & Food Processing – Engaging conversations revolved around the requirement for technology specifically tailored to rural conditions.
Leveraging AI & IoT
This called for the Ministry’s attention on leveraging AI and IoT for advancements in agriculture and food processing. Defense & Space – This discussion highlighted a range of perspectives and strategies to foster disruptive innovations in these critical sectors. It was noted that there is a scope to increase India’s contribution towards the $400 billion space business..
Industry 4.0 – Several discussions were centered around the idea of maximizing indigenization, integrating data-driven and machine learning approaches, and the importance of adapting education curricula to support innovation. There were suggestions to adhere to a practical and forward-thinking approach for adapting to the present requirements through the remodelling of knowledge and skills, understanding data and continuous learning in the context of evolving technologies.
Prof. Govindan Rangarajan, Director, IISc Bangalore, said, “To promote disruptive innovations, it is crucial to create an environment that embraces change, encourages out-of-the-box thinking, and provides resources and platforms for individuals to explore unconventional ideas, ultimately driving transformative advancements in the industry. IInvenTiv-2024 stands as a testament to this ethos, offering a dynamic platform catalyzing transformative changes across various sectors”.
