SCIENCE INDIA FORUM BAHRAIN
K - 2019
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P.O.Box:2230, Manama
Kingdom of Bahrain
Tel:77190277, 77171724
Fax:17252541
E-mail: [email protected]
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His Majesty
King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa
Kingdom of Bahrain
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His Royal Highness
Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa
The Prime Minister
Kingdom of Bahrain
His Royal Highness
Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa
The Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander
and First Deputy Prime Minister
Kingdom of Bahrain
Shri. Ram Nath Kovind
President of India
DR. HARSH VARDHAN Ambassador Embassy of India, Bahrain
-110001
MINISTER
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND EARTH SCIENCES
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
NEW DELHI - 110001
Alok Kumar Sinha
21 November, 2018
Message
I am pleased to know that Science India Forum, Bahrain is releasing
the yearbook SCIENTECH-2018, during the Science Awards Gala on
7 December, 2018
Science India Forum has consistently been providing the young & budding
talents with a platform to compete, explore and create synergies across
a wide spectrum of scientific activities of India and the Gulf region. The
interest and innovation generated through these initiatives go a long way
in promoting the science education, particularly amongst the students
in the Kingdom of Bahrain and greatly support in nurturing the young
minds.
I take this opportunity to wish the Science India Forum, Bahrain all the
very best for releasing the yearbook at the Science Awards Gala and wish
them success in their future endeavours.
(Alok K Sinha)
PO Box 26106, Bldg. 1090, Road 2819, Al-Seef 428, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain
Tel.: (+973) 1756 0360, 1771 5241, Fax: (+973) 1771 5527
209, 2 110001 :+91-11-23316766, 23714230; : +91-11-23316745 E-mail: [email protected] - Website: http://eoi.gov.in/bahrain
209, Anusandhan Bhawan, 2, Rafi Marg, New Delhi-110001 Ph.: +91-11-23316766, 23714230; Fax : +91-11-23316745
DR. HARSH VARDHAN Ambassador Embassy of India, Bahrain
-110001
MINISTER
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND EARTH SCIENCES
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
NEW DELHI - 110001
Alok Kumar Sinha
27 June 2019
21 November, 2018
Message
I am pleased to know that Science India Forum, Bahrain is releasing
I am happy to learn that Science India Forum (SIF) Bahrain is publishing
the yearbook SCIENTECH-2018, during the Science Awards Gala on
‘ Sciencetrek 2019’ a supplement that showcases its various activities to
7 December, 2018
develop scientific temper amongst school children in Bahrain.
Science India Forum has consistently been providing the young & budding
I extend my compliments to Science India Forum for their consistent
talents with a platform to compete, explore and create synergies across
efforts to promoting science education among the younger generation and
a wide spectrum of scientific activities of India and the Gulf region. The
for their collective efforts in bringing out the supplement magazine.
interest and innovation generated through these initiatives go a long way
in promoting the science education, particularly amongst the students
I wish Science India Forum all success in their future endeavour.
in the Kingdom of Bahrain and greatly support in nurturing the young
minds.
I take this opportunity to wish the Science India Forum, Bahrain all the
very best for releasing the yearbook at the Science Awards Gala and wish
them success in their future endeavours.
(Alok K Sinha)
PO Box 26106, Bldg. 1090, Road 2819, Al-Seef 428, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain
Tel.: (+973) 1756 0360, 1771 5241, Fax: (+973) 1771 5527
209, 2 110001 :+91-11-23316766, 23714230; : +91-11-23316745 E-mail: [email protected] - Website: http://eoi.gov.in/bahrain
209, Anusandhan Bhawan, 2, Rafi Marg, New Delhi-110001 Ph.: +91-11-23316766, 23714230; Fax : +91-11-23316745
Dr. Ravi Warrior
Chairman,
SIF Advisory Board
Science plays a major role in every one’s life at some stage or other.
Many of us knowingly or unknowingly get in line with scientific
thinking. Let’s encourage our children to develop the scientific
aptitude and be a role model for others. Science for daily life should be
the slogan in every one’s mind and thus make the world understand
the importance and usefulness of science.
My best wishes for all the aspirants of Science India Forum.
Dr. Ravi Warrior
Dr. Vinod Manikkara
Hon. President
Science India Forum - Bahrain
Science India Forum Bahrain has been organizing educational
tours to India’s premier Scientific Research and Development
institutes since 2013. The ‘Sastra Pratibhas’ – 16 winners of the
annual nationwide science talent test (Sastra Pratibha Contest) from
Bahrain get this unique opportunity to be part of these tours. This
is made possible with the support of the Embassy of India, Bahrain
and Vijnana Bharati, India.
More than 11,000 students register for this Talent search test every
year. This year Science India Forum Bahrain is publishing ‘Scientrek
2019’ to extend the experience of Sastra Pratibha’s to thousands
of students to inculcate the scientific temperament into the young
minds.
The R&D institutes visited, the interactions with the scientists, the
photographs taken etc. are presented here which is the culmination
of great efforts of students, parents and our volunteers.
The sponsors and former Sastra Pratibhas’ parents who supported
this venture need to be commended for their selfless gesture.
Please support our children in their journey to explore the world of
Science!
Dr. Vinod Manikkara
My name is Ansh Katyayan and I was a Sastra Pratibha in 2016 and
winner in the junior section in the Bahrain Students’ Innovation Congress
in 2017. Science India Forum, or SIF has done brilliant work over the
years to provide an amazing platform for budding scientists. Personally, I
was not very interested in science until I became Sastra Pratibha.
Ansh Katyayan SIF Bahrain’s Sastraayan trip really spiked my interest in science and it
New Millennium School
was an amazing experience. It is only because the efforts put in by SIF
Bahrain that could have lead us to visit places such as BARC in Mumbai.
Competitions such as BSIC really require students to think outside the
box and students no longer think of science as a subject. So I would like
to thank SIF Bahrain for the platform they provided me and will wist them
the best in their future endeavours.
Science India Forum has continuously striven to promote creativity and
instill a scientific aptitude in the new generation of scientists, thereby
enriching our minds with valuable experiences of visiting premier scientific
institutions and exposing us to the latest breakthroughs in the field.
Through the Sastraayan trip, the Sastra Pratibhas had a wonderful
Yugmita Katyayan opportunity of interacting with various pioneer scientists and learn from
New Millenium School them. The experience has left an indelible impression on and it is something
that I cannot thank SIF enough for.
The Sastra Pratibha Contest has truly increased my aptitude in science
and I would like to wish them luck for their future endeavors.
It is very important for humans to develop a scientific temper and an
inquisitive mind. The Science India Forum (SIF) is encouraging the
students to perceive the hidden scientific talent in them.
SIF has taught me to question the reason behind everything and given me
a platform to feed my scientific appetite. The contests conducted by the
Harikrishnan K Menon SIF has inspired me to take the path to fulfill my ambition.
New Millenium School
Since only a spark is enough to create a blazing fire where fuel is present
in abundance, SIF is creating the spark to produce the ignited minds of
the country using the inexhaustible thirst for knowledge and creativity as
the fuel.
My best wishes to SIF in its search for scientific talent.
I am pleased to congratulate SIF Bahrain on the initiative of publishing
“SCIENTREK 2019, which will serve as a platform for sharing innovation,
ideas, knowledge and expertise in science, its application and expertise.
I am very grateful to SIF, Bahrain forever, for giving me the opportunity
to be part of Sastrayaan trip in 2018 visiting the prestigious research
Dev Vinod institution, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, India, where I
New Horizon School
witnessed the models of satellites, and their rocket launch pads.
I always believe that science and technology hold answers to all the
fundamental questions we must address to prepare for the future. Wishing
SIF, Bahrain a great success in all future endeavors.
In the course of the past few years, because of SIF Bahrain’s efforts there
have been many young students who have been brought forward to the
limelight. However, behind all these students was that dedicated group of
people who strived to achieve their one common goal in finding the young
scientists and presenting them with all the necessities to nurture their
interest in science. Words fail me when I try to convey the great role that
Navaneet Anilkumar SIF Bahrain has played for the fulfillment of this purpose and I wish them
Al Noor International School
all the success and glory in their future endeavors.
Being at the receiving end of the services of the SIF Bahrain, it gives me
immense pleasure to look back at the 6 glorious years of the organization
and its dedicated efforts and consequent achievements during the period.
The scientific community has been immensely benefitted by its activities
aimed at nurturing an ardent love for science among the youth and will
continue to do so. On this celebratory occasion, I wish the SIF Bahrain all
Naeema Muhammed the very best for its future endeavours and hope to see it achieve greater
The New Indian School heights in the years to come.
I take this opportunity to express my gratitude towards Science India
Forum (SIF) Bahrain for introducing India’s rich scientific heritage to the
youth in order to kindle scientific temperament within us. The knowledge
and experience we gained during the seminar and educational trip are
worthy and memorable.
Nevin Varghese Alappat On this occasion of publishing Scientrek 2019 I would like to convey my
The Asian School best wishes to SIF team and I believe that this book will be a valuable book
of knowledge for the readers. I wish all the success to Science India Forum
for their future endeavors.
I, Amrutavarshinee Murugan, studying in Grade V of Bahrain Indian
School has been extremely proud to be honored as one amongst the Sastra
Pratibhas 2018. Science India Forum Bahrain in tie up with ISRO and
Vijnana Bharati organizes Sastra Pratibha Contest every year to identify
the nurturing young talents across the country, followed by a very well
organized Sastrayaan Trip. I hereby, wholeheartedly wishing Science
Amrutavarshinee Murugan India Forum Bahrain a grand success in future endeavours. Also, I would
Bahrain Indian School
like to extend my sincere gratitude and utmost respect to each one of the
organizing committee members. I also take this opportunity to give my
best regards to the future Sastra Pratibhas.
Firstly I would like to thank the science India Forum for giving me the
opportunity to visit such prestigious organizations. I believe that this
book will inspire students who aspire to master science and technology to
participate in the Sastra prathiba contest with more zeal in order to have
the wonderful opportunity like I've had. I hope that this book is a success
and reaches the hands of all those who have an interest in science.
Shruthi Bathini
The Asian School
The Shastra Prathiba Contest gave me the ultimate privilege to be a part of
the Shastrayaan 2019 as well as Shastrayaan 2017. The trip enlightened
me in the field of science and its crucial role in our daily life. During the
3 days trip to Kolkata this year, we visited renowned establishments like
the Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC), Saha Institute of Nuclear
Physics, CSIR – Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute and The
Brindha Arumugasamy Science City. Each institute expanded my knowledge and blessed me with
The Indian School
an opportunity to interact with various scientists who instilled a burning
desire in me, not only to enter the research field but also to serve our great
nation, India.
We witnessed as well as gained knowledge about the working of numerous
structures like the Superconducting Cyclotron, Linear particle accelerator,
the working of ALICE. Also, we were briefed about the working of Mass
Chromatometer, steps of optic fibre production, ceramic microfilters,
Specialty glass technology, the role of bio-ceramics in the medical
world and much more. In 2017, I got the chance to visit The Institute of
Chemical Technology, IIT – Bombay and The Bhabha Atomic Research
Centre where we observed the famous nuclear reactors and the Anupam
Supercomputer. Visiting such places made me realize the leading role of
India in the scientific world. I would like to thank Science India Forum
Bahrain from the bottom of my heart for their relentless efforts in making
our dreams come true and encouraging the young minds to pursue their
desires.
Sastra Pratibha Contest (SPC), true to its name, helps in discovering
and upholding the scientific temperament of young minds in Kingdom of
Bahrain. Through SPC, Science India Forum (SIF) and Vijnana Bharati
is giving us an opportunity to appreciate the rich scientific heritage of
India, to conduct independent scientific queries and to boost our overall
confidence. Sastrayaan opens the doors to the interesting and intriguing
Piyush Rajesh world of science and research. It gives the rarerst of rare opportunities to
Bahrain Indian School
visit prestigious Research and Development Institutions in India.
All the very best to all participants of SPC this year. It is a chance to
“Enlighten your dream with SIF”.
Science India Forum Bahrain has always been in the forefront for discovery
new talents in the field of Science in Bahrain and has been very successful.
I was blessed to be a part of SASTRAYAN, Education trip to India, in
last year where we got to meet and interact with various scientists and
personalities at ISRO and major institutes and organizations in India..
Sivahari Prakash Babu I wish SIF Bahrain with their new supplement – SCIENTREK 2019 all
New Millennium School
success and hope which will empower more students to build up their
aptitudes in the field of Science.
Science India Forum (SIF), through its Sastra Pratibha Contest, has
provided a platform for students with the thirst for knowledge to learn from
the very best in the business. My Sastrayaan to Delhi and the opportunity
to meet the late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was by far one of the best memories
that I will cherish for years to come. I thank Science India Forum for their
continuous efforts to fulfill the scientific potential that the students are
Sai Sudhir capable of by providing them with the opportunity and finally, I wish them
New Millenium School
all the very best in their future endeavours.
It is indeed a matter of pleasure that the Science India Forum is releasing a
Science Journal, the SCIENTREK, for the development of scientific temper
in today's student life, involving and generating future scientists for the
country.
I hope the Scientrek Magazine will play a vital role in motivating many
Srevin Saju students to participate and prepare for competitions like the Sastra
The Indian School
Pratibha Contest as well as the Bahrain Science Indian Congress. I wish
this journal will help to inculcate the idea of science and their application
in the present day scenario, to aim for peace as well as an advancement in
science and technology for a better world for us to live in, and for a better
humanity.
While preparing for Sastra Prathiba, I learnt a lot about ancient India
and ancient sciences. I had not heard of the achievements and works of
scientists like Bhaskaracharya, Madhava, Sushruta, Charaka, Kanada,
etc. We had never heard the names of these scientists in our school
textbooks and the study material was an enlightening read for me. It
Tushya Kalpada increased my pride as an Indian and made me love my nation more.
New Millennium School
When I was attempting level 2 of Sastra Prathiba, we had our viva topic
as yoga. This helped me to learn more about yoga and its benefits.
The Sastrayaan was also a great learning experience for me. One thing
I observed while visiting the top universities was that even though the
infrastructure was old, the thought was modern and technology, cutting-
edge. I also learnt a lot from the professors of IIT and ICT.
Throughout my journey of Sastra Prathiba I have become more aware of
the sciences that existed during India’s past. All the collective experiences
and knowledge that I gathered has strengthened my ambition and has
encouraged me to work harder to become a scientist.
I humbly request the participants not to lose such a golden opportunity to
learn more about the scientific heritage of India and a chance to interact
with many top Indian scientists and shape the future of our beloved nation.
Sastrayaan is a lifetime opportunity for the children who are inquisitive to
know scientific advancements, researches and technological breakthroughs
what India has been mustering. 2018 Sastrayaan event showcased several
scientific institutions located in Kolkata. During the trip, Sastraprathibhas
were introduced to advanced cryogenics where in substances could be
Snehit Mannepalli cooled rapidly and to the lowest possible temperatures that are used in
New Millennium School rocket launches. India is proud to have one of the five cyclotrons in the
world, around 40 years back itself.
This advanced particle accelerator contributed to several Indian atomic
researches. At GCRI we knew about indigenous innovation of semi-
transparent lead that would be used to inhibit Gamma rays to pass through
so that the experiments on atomic particles could be seen with naked eye.
The whole trip was very exciting and children were eager to know the
innovations by the scientific institutions no matter how exhausting the
trip was.
A big “Thank You” to the Science India Forum Bahrain for providing some
of the life’s most unique experiences; for awakening the scientific streak in
us; and last but not least, making us believe in ourselves. The Sastrayaan
proved to be a turning point in my life. The epic sojourn inspired and instilled
in me the spirit of inventiveness and exploration. Through Sastrayaan I
Steve Chalil Biju got a golden glimpse into the great achievements that our great nation,
Bahrain Indian School
India, has made in the field of science, and the endless possibilities that
await to be turned into opportunities. Only through Sastrayaan, I got the
inspiration, and determination to be the future force that drives India to
unprecedented glory: the future scientist that unfolds many a new success
stories for Mother India. Jai Hind!
Its a pleasure to share my experience in Sasthrayaan. Sasthra Pratibha
increased my curiosity towards science and encouraged me to learn more.
I actually have always been a space person, thus my ambition is to become
an astronomer. That is how I was very determined to win Sasthra Pratibha.
When I cam to know that we were going to the prestigious Satish Dhawan
Viswatheertha Space Center, I was very happy. We even got a chance to see the rocket
Al Noor International School
launchpad. It was a great experience and therefore I suggest all students
to take it as an opportunity to see a lot of things, that others might not get
to see. I am very thankful to the SIF Team for taking care of me throughout
the trip as I was travelling alone. I wish the very best to the them.
Words are insufficient for the gratitude I have towards SIF Bahrain for
nurturing young scientific talents through the Sastra Pratibha Contest.
Having the honour of winning the award for two consecutive years, I had
the once in a lifetime opportunity of visiting some of India’s foremost
scientific institutions including ISRO, DRDO, BrahMos, HAL and CSIR
Utso Roy through Sastrayaan in Bangalore and New Delhi.
The New Indian School
The experiences on these educational excursions have profoundly
empowered me and expanded my horizons of Indian science. I will forever
remain indebted to SIF Bahrain for blessing me with this wonderful
opportunity and I wish the upcoming Sastra Pratibhas all the very best in
their scientific endeavours!
Aswin Suresh
The Indian School Bahrain
A Journey to The Pearl City of India
It was a memorable and inspiring trip by the scientists for research. The institution
planned to the historic city of Hyderabad by also had a lot of artwork by famous artists.
the SIF Bahrain. It was a lifetime opportunity Post-lunch we visited the Indian Institute
for paying a visit to prestigious scientific of Chemical Technology (IICT). It was a
institutions in Hyderabad. fascinating experience where we gained a
lot of knowledge on the advancements our
26th January was the D-Day. Finally the nation is making in the field of chemistry.
time had come when we began our journey We got an opportunity to learn about various
to Hyderabad. The team was filled with scientific instruments such as a Nuclear
excitement. It was the early morning of 27th Magnetic Resonance (NMR) machine called
January when we landed. We were given a Bruker, Mass spectrometers, Rotavapour
warm rose welcome by the representatives etc. After this we proceeded back to NIN
of Vijnana Bharati. where we got an opportunity to interact
with the research scholars of NIN and
First we visited India’s leading institute of also witnessed an entertaining cultural
nutrition research; National Institute of programme. It was an inspiring experience
Nutrition (NIN). We were given a briefing after which we returned back to the hotel.
of the Institute’s activities by one of its
scientists. We visited the Nutrition Museum On the third day, we entered the world of
where we were given an insight to the field missile technology: the Research Centre
of nutrition. Then we had an interactive Imarat (RCI), a branch of Defence Research
session with some of the senior scientists and Development Organization (DRDO). We
at NIN. After that we were taken around saw a museum where scaled down models of
the institution, to its various research labs. Indian missiles and their components were
Post lunch we proceeded to Indian National exhibited. We also saw real scale models of
Centre for Ocean Information Services missiles like Prithvi and Agni and we also
(INCOIS). Here we got to know a lot about saw Hardware In Loop Simulation (HILS).
our country’s Tsunami warning system, We got a unique opportunity to interacting
how science helps fishermen and about with the director of RCI, Dr. G. Satheesh
the Indian satellite OCEANSAT. After this Reddy. It was a brainstorming interaction
brainstorming and wonderful experience we and it inspired all of us to serve our nation
returned back to the hotel. in the field of science and technology. We
took a stroll around the institution and then
The next day, we ventured to the Centre for had lunch. After this the exciting journey
Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB). It had come to an end.
was an eye-opener into the interesting field
of microbiology. We even saw a short film on After this truly memorable and inspirational
the achievements of CCMB. One of the CCMB visit, we returned to Bahrain keeping one
scientists took us around the institution and burning desire that is to become a notable
in the journey we came to know about the scientist in future and serve our great nation
various instruments and microscopes used Mother India.
A Trip of
A Lifetime Nada Biju
The Indian School
Educational trips are one of the most enjoyed and knowledgeable part of any student’s life.
Such trips stimulate learning beyond what textbooks and videos can provide to the learning
environment. I consider myself one among the sixteen students who were lucky enough to get a
chance to visit important scientific institutions in Hyderabad.
As it was fixed, we left Bahrain on the 26th of January. We were sent off at the airport by SIF
officials and our parents. On the early morning of 27th January, we arrived at the Rajiv Gandhi
International Airport, Hyderabad. After all the airport procedures and a few hours of rest, at
7:30 am in the morning, we left for our first destination.i.e. the national institute of nutrition,
Hyderabad.
At NIN, we were enlightened about the importance of healthy eating habits, lifestyle and nutrition
deficiency diseases. There was a small museum that displayed various charts and posters about
a variety of health related aspects and we found them really informative. The posters also showed
us about the history of the institute which actually is one of the oldest institutes in India. Then
we visited, INCOIS (indian national centre for oceanographic information services). There we
were explained to by scientists about tsunami warning sytems that india has developed in the
wake of the 2004 Indian ocean tsunami. We also had a brief explanation on potential fishing
zones and how they helped fishermen to strengthen their incomes.
The next day we visited CCMB .i.e. Centre for cellular and molecular biology. We were given
explanations about various fields of biology and biotechnology like applications of DNA
fingerprinting, and human genome diversity. We were told about the research conducted in
CCMB regarding the genetic diversity of the Andamanese people of the Andaman and Nicobar
islands. The same day we visited IICT (Indian institute of chemical technology) where we saw
different methods of separation of chemical components from various mixtures. We were also
briefed about the manufacture of drugs that could help cure diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s
.etc.
On 29th January, we went to the much awaited DRDO institute – Research center imarat (RCI).
There was a museum which showcased a wide array of miniature models of missiles and their
assembly units. We were truly amazed by the displays. The scientists and their co-workers
were eager to clarify our questions and made sure we understood each and every detail. In the
afternoon, we visited the place where our former president Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam had spent
his days while in Hyderabad. We visited all these places in a very planned way and enjoyed every
moment. We made some purchases in the last and then proceeded for our departure.
I am grateful and highly indebted to SIF Bahrain and Vijnana Bharati for providing me with this
once in a lifetime opportunity to visit such institutes of great repute and to interact with eminent
scientists in various fields. This trip can be considered my first stepping stone into a vast world
of science and technology that lies ahead of me. The trip was a very memorable one that will
always be cherished in my mind.
Amisha Devan
Indian School Bahrain
This year we Sastra Pratibhas got the gift of visiting the City of Nawabs,
Hyderabad. Our 3 day trip consisted of visits to premiere scientific institutions
in the Hyderabad city. My excitement knew no bounds.
The first destination was The National Institution for Nutrition. We saw
creative displays on nutrition and learnt more on disease research. INCOIS
was the next stop. The scientists explained the potentials of ocean research
programmes and gave us briefs on tsunami warning and potential fishing
zones.
On the second day, we went to the Centre for Cellular and Molecular
Biology. The institution, with its interlude between science and art truly
attracted me. The campus was adorned with paintings and sculptures by
renowned artists in India. We saw labs on Flow Cytometry, DNA sequencing,
Spectrophotometry etc. We then visited the adjoining Indian Institute of
Chemical Technology where we saw petrochemical and industrial labs. Even
though the information was of higher standard for our understanding, the
scientists made it easier for us to swallow.
The third day was the highlighting point of the visit. We got the chance of
stepping foot into Research Institute Imarat, which a few in thousands get.
RCI which is under DRDO was the result of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s efforts
to make India lead in missile technology. We were educated on different
missiles like BRAHMOS, AGNI, AKASH etc and simulation programmes. It
was followed by an interaction with RCI’s director Dr. G Satheesh Reddy
where we cleared our doubts on scientific research. We also saw the house
where our beloved Dr.Kalam resided for fourteen years. The day ended with
a shopping spree in Shilparamam craft village.
The Sastrayaan gave us insights on the scientific resources of India and its
rich diversity. We Sastra Pratibhas got encouragement and inspiration to
follow our dreams and work for the betterment of our mother land. From the
visit, I got knowledge to treasure and memories to cherish for a lifetime.
A MEMO R AB LE
J OURNE Y
It was indeed a wonderful trip to visit one of the Hi - tech cities in
India, Hyderabad. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit
some of the major Research Centres, Laboratories and Institutions in
Hyderabad. Also it was a lively and encouraging experience to interact with
senior scientists and high dignitaries who provided us immense knowledge
and many interesting facts.
We reached Hyderabad on the warm morning of January 27th. On the first day, we
visited the National Institute of Nutrition [NIN]. We were taken around the museum
there, which was filled with charts and still models. We came to know about importance
of various food items which should be included in our daily diet, and also about the diseases
caused by nutritional deficiencies in the museum. Then we interacted with a senior scientist,
Dr. P. Udaykumar, who gave us a brief explanation on nutrition and gave us information
on the daily food we should consume. Next we visited the Indian National Centre for Ocean
Information Services [INCOIS]. There we visited the tsunami early warning centre, where they
warn India and neighbouring countries about possible tsunami occurance. The scientist there
explained us about various reasons and effects of tsunami. Then we went to the potential
fishing zone advisory room and also we went to scientists who research about satellites. One
of the scientist showed us a power point presentation and gave us a detailed explanation on
satellites identifying weather conditions and atmospheric changes.
On the second day, we visited the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology [CCMB] and
the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology [IICT]. CCMB is not only a prominent scientific
institute, it is also known for its beautiful architecture and paintings. They showed us a
video how the scientists has developed the improved breed of rice (Sambha Masuri) which
was affected with a disease caused by bacteria. We visited many labs which were having a
variety of machines like electromagnetic spectrophotometer, florometer, etc. We came to know
more about DNA and proteins. We were also excited to see the reaction of Nitrogen (-196
celsius) once they poured the nitrogen on the floor. During the lunch time, one of the senior
scientists who had dined with us encouraged us to ask questions. Next we visited IICT. There
in the room, for up scaling pilot plans, we saw machines like Reactor, Rota Vapor, Fractional
Distillation Unit, etc. Then we went to the National Magnetic Resonance, where the scientists
study about proteins, peptides, bio molecules, chemical compounds etc.
On the third day, we visited the Defence Research and Development Organization [DRDO].
We got a blessed opportunity to visit DRDO, as it is a highly secured place and this was the
first time school children were visiting there. We got immense knowledge on missiles such as
Agni, Pritvi, BrahMos, Akash, Astra, Trishul, etc. There we visited the missile park where we
saw models of missiles. Then we met the Director, Mr. Sathish Reddy, who inspired us with
his heart touching words. We also got a golden chance to visit Dr. APJ. Abdul Kalam’s house,
where he lived for almost 10 years and it was indeed a rare opportunity.
A very special gratitude to each members of SIF Bahrain and Vijnana Bharati for
providing us with this amazing and most memorable trip. Apparently, this trip
inspired and encouraged all of us to work hard to achieve more heights in our
life ahead.
Military: Can you imagine a navy seals
capability when they wouldn’t need to
surface for air and could stay underwater
for over 20 minutes? If a boat was to
begin to sink, you could shoot yourself
as the boat is going down to ensure you
aren’t drowned in the undercurrent of
the sinking vessel. How about for toxic
gases when a facemask is unavailable.
AMAZING The military could have a number of
INVENTION uses for such a medical advancement.
Private Sector: Really this can be used
LIVE WITHOUT BREATHING.. as a precaution for anything nautical
where the potential to drown is a real
“JUST INJECT AN OXYGEN PARTICLE” danger. Deep sea rescue crews could inject themselves prior to making a rescue, underwater
welders can use it in case they become stuck or air is lost to their suits. The potential use for
anything water related seems extremely worthwhile.
New Medical Discovery
A team of scientists at the Boston Children’s Hospital have invented what is being considered Conclusion
one the greatest medical breakthroughs in recent years. They have designed a microparticle In the end, this is an amazing medical advancement and I can’t help but recall the movie the
that can be injected into a person’s bloodstream that can quickly oxygenate their blood. This Abyss when they took the pill, their helmets filled with air, and they were told they can breathe
will even work if the ability to breathe has been restricted, or even cut off entirely.
the water. Well what if they really couldn’t “breathe” water” but since the urge to breathe is
natural, that must take place… even if you’re not breathing air per se. But your body was
This finding has the potential to save millions of lives every year. The microparticles can keep provided with enough oxygen for a time period by taking a pill. It’s just goes to show that
an object alive for up to 30 min after respiratory failure. This is accomplished through an anything, absolutely anything that can be thought up, can potentially one day become reality.
injection into the patients’ veins. Once injected, the microparticles can oxygenate the blood to Thank you scientists, for reminding me that people and their ingenuity are nothing short of
near normal levels. This has countless potential uses as it allows life to continue when oxygen awesome.
is needed but unavailable. For medical personnel, this is just enough time to avoid risking a Reference: http://www.techwench.com/scientists-invent-oxygen-particle-that-if-injected-allows-you-to-live-without-breathing
heart attack or permanent brain injury when oxygen is restricted or cut off to patients.
Dr. John Kheir, who first began the study, works in the Boston Children’s Hospital Department
of Cardiology. He found inspiration for the drug in 2006, when he was treating a girl in the ICU
who had a severe case of pneumonia. At the time, the girl didn’t have a breathing tube, when
at the time she suffered from a pulmonary hemorrhage. This means her lungs had begun to
fill up with blood, and she finally went into cardiac arrest. It took doctors about 25 minutes
to remove enough blood from her lungs to allow her to breath. Though, the girl’s brain was
severely injured due to being deprived of oxygen for that long and she eventually died.
Microparticle Composition Goal Setting
The microparticles used are composed of oxygen gas pocketed in a layer of lipids. A Lipid is
a natural molecule that can store energy and act as a part of a cell membrane, they can be
made of many things such as wax, vitamins, phospholipids, and in this case fat is the lipid Setting goal is the way of focusing on your dreams so they become a reality.
that stores the oxygen.
Goal Setting - is critical to your success, you need to know in which direction you are heading.
These microparticles are around two to four micrometers in length and carry about three to There are Five keys to successful goal setting: SMART goals.
four times the oxygen content of our own red blood cells. In the past, researchers had a difficult Specific make sure your goals are specific (you get what you ask for)
time succeeding as prior tests caused gas embolism. This meant that the gas molecules would
become stuck trying to squeeze through the capillaries. They corrected this issue by packaging Measurable how would you know once you have achieved your goal?
them into small deformable particles rather ones where the structure was rigid. Achievable set attainable goals in each subject (eg number of credits or specific grades)
Potential Future Uses Realistic are you willing to do what it takes to achieve your goal?
Medical: There is the obvious medical uses where the microparticles can be used to save off Time Frame know when it is to be done
death from a restriction in breathing due to inflammation of the lungs, collapsed lungs, and
the like. It would be good to have these injections ready in hospitals and ambulances for when Write your goals down - eg what grades you want to get? Then check you are on track. Setting goals
leads to an increased sense of purpose and focus.
the time is needed.
Dreams do not come true magically, they are made step by step. When you do achieve a goal, no
Scientech
- www.sifbahrain.com matter how small, celebrate.
Military: Can you imagine a navy seals
capability when they wouldn’t need to
surface for air and could stay underwater
for over 20 minutes? If a boat was to
begin to sink, you could shoot yourself
as the boat is going down to ensure you
aren’t drowned in the undercurrent of
the sinking vessel. How about for toxic
gases when a facemask is unavailable.
AMAZING The military could have a number of
INVENTION uses for such a medical advancement. AN ENCHANTING
Private Sector: Really this can be used
LIVE WITHOUT BREATHING.. as a precaution for anything nautical JOURNEY THROUGH
where the potential to drown is a real
“JUST INJECT AN OXYGEN PARTICLE” danger. Deep sea rescue crews could inject themselves prior to making a rescue, underwater
welders can use it in case they become stuck or air is lost to their suits. The potential use for THE WORLD OF SCIENCE
anything water related seems extremely worthwhile.
New Medical Discovery Naeema Muhammed
A team of scientists at the Boston Children’s Hospital have invented what is being considered Conclusion The New Indian School
one the greatest medical breakthroughs in recent years. They have designed a microparticle In the end, this is an amazing medical advancement and I can’t help but recall the movie the
that can be injected into a person’s bloodstream that can quickly oxygenate their blood. This Abyss when they took the pill, their helmets filled with air, and they were told they can breathe Ibn Batuta is reported to have said, “Travelling makes you speechless,
will even work if the ability to breathe has been restricted, or even cut off entirely. then turns you into a storyteller”. And when the journey you embark on is
the water. Well what if they really couldn’t “breathe” water” but since the urge to breathe is
natural, that must take place… even if you’re not breathing air per se. But your body was something like the ‘Sastrayaan’, his words just can’t go wrong.
This finding has the potential to save millions of lives every year. The microparticles can keep provided with enough oxygen for a time period by taking a pill. It’s just goes to show that
an object alive for up to 30 min after respiratory failure. This is accomplished through an anything, absolutely anything that can be thought up, can potentially one day become reality. We, the 16 Sastra Pratibhas from Bahrain, were given a once-in-a-lifetime
injection into the patients’ veins. Once injected, the microparticles can oxygenate the blood to Thank you scientists, for reminding me that people and their ingenuity are nothing short of opportunity to visit eminent scientific institutions in Hyderabad. It was a
near normal levels. This has countless potential uses as it allows life to continue when oxygen awesome. 3-day trip, from the 27th to 29th January. The first institution we visited
is needed but unavailable. For medical personnel, this is just enough time to avoid risking a Reference: http://www.techwench.com/scientists-invent-oxygen-particle-that-if-injected-allows-you-to-live-without-breathing was the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN). Established almost a century
heart attack or permanent brain injury when oxygen is restricted or cut off to patients. ago, it was the first of its kind in India. We were taken to a museum where
numerous charts regarding nutrition were displayed, after which we had an
Dr. John Kheir, who first began the study, works in the Boston Children’s Hospital Department interactive session with some eminent scientists. The institute also housed
of Cardiology. He found inspiration for the drug in 2006, when he was treating a girl in the ICU the country’s oldest library. We then visited the Indian National Centre
who had a severe case of pneumonia. At the time, the girl didn’t have a breathing tube, when for Oceanic Information Sciences (INCOIS), where we learnt how tsunami
at the time she suffered from a pulmonary hemorrhage. This means her lungs had begun to detection and analysis of potential fishing zones are carried out. We also
fill up with blood, and she finally went into cardiac arrest. It took doctors about 25 minutes learnt about the functioning of satellites.
to remove enough blood from her lungs to allow her to breath. Though, the girl’s brain was
severely injured due to being deprived of oxygen for that long and she eventually died. The next day, we visited the Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology (CCMB).
We learnt how a variety of rice named ‘Samba Mahsuri’ was improved using
Microparticle Composition Goal Setting genetic modification. We also visited many labs pertaining to various research
The microparticles used are composed of oxygen gas pocketed in a layer of lipids. A Lipid is practices and learnt about the instruments used there. The next institution
a natural molecule that can store energy and act as a part of a cell membrane, they can be we visited was the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT). The
made of many things such as wax, vitamins, phospholipids, and in this case fat is the lipid Setting goal is the way of focusing on your dreams so they become a reality. institute had various departments pertaining to various fields in chemistry.
that stores the oxygen. We were taught how various chemical processes were carried out.
Goal Setting - is critical to your success, you need to know in which direction you are heading.
These microparticles are around two to four micrometers in length and carry about three to There are Five keys to successful goal setting: SMART goals. The last institute we visited was the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) at DRDO.
four times the oxygen content of our own red blood cells. In the past, researchers had a difficult Specific make sure your goals are specific (you get what you ask for) A huge campus with world-class infrastructure, it reflected the hardwork
time succeeding as prior tests caused gas embolism. This meant that the gas molecules would of hundreds of scientists who toil to keep the country safe by producing
become stuck trying to squeeze through the capillaries. They corrected this issue by packaging Measurable how would you know once you have achieved your goal? missiles or ‘weapons of peace’, as Dr. Kalam called them. We also had an
them into small deformable particles rather ones where the structure was rigid. Achievable set attainable goals in each subject (eg number of credits or specific grades) interactive session with the Director of DRDO, Mr. Satish Reddy.
Potential Future Uses Realistic are you willing to do what it takes to achieve your goal? We returned to Bahrain as proud Indians, fuelled with inspiration and
Medical: There is the obvious medical uses where the microparticles can be used to save off Time Frame know when it is to be done an ardent desire to serve the nation and contribute to its development.
death from a restriction in breathing due to inflammation of the lungs, collapsed lungs, and ‘Sastrayaan’ has indeed made me realize that science is a lot more than what
the like. It would be good to have these injections ready in hospitals and ambulances for when Write your goals down - eg what grades you want to get? Then check you are on track. Setting goals our textbooks tell us.
leads to an increased sense of purpose and focus.
the time is needed.
Dreams do not come true magically, they are made step by step. When you do achieve a goal, no
Scientech
- www.sifbahrain.com matter how small, celebrate.
SASTRAYAN
TRIP TO
HYDERABAD
It was my first educational tour outside Bahrain and I was
very excited when Science India Forum (SIF) announced
the travel dates and the name of the institutions we plan
to visit. I visited these institutions’ website prior to our
travel date and gathered some ideas about their activities.
SIF team Bahrain very well organized the travel plan and
arrangements. The Vijana Bharati member, Mr.Abga at
Hyderabad Airport warmly welcomed us.
Our first day tour started by the visit of NIN (National Institute of Nutrition) Museum, in
which we learned the benefit and value of nutrition rich foods available in our nature. Later
we had an interaction session with NIN scientists that enriched our basic knowledge and
provide us an opportunity to clarify our doubts. We visited their Labs, Library and other
facilities. After a healthy Lunch at NIN, we continued our journey to INCOIS (Indian National
Centre for Ocean Information Services). At INCOIS, we were surprised to see our country’s
technical advancement on Ocean information system. One of their senior Scientists,
Mr. Ajay Kumar gave us a detailed lecture at Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre with
live pictures and videos fed from our Indian Satellites and information system. This centre
is a great help to the fishing community and at the same time, committed to the safety of
coastal lives. Later we visited a Satellite ground station at INCOIS, where we got a live view
from a Satellite scanning Earth at 6 km per second.
Our second day, started from CCMB (Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology), a place
filled with natural beauty and valuable sculptures and paintings by eminent Artists. We
visited their testing Labs and Research facilities accompanied by senior scientists. We
also saw a video explaining how CCMB helped the farmers to develop a high yielding
disease-resistant ‘Samba Masuri’ rice. After a delicious luncheon at CCMB Canteen, we
sat with one of the senior CCMB Professor listening to his wisdom talk. Later we walked
across the road to visit IICT (Indian Institute of Chemical Technology). IICT Chief Scientist
Dr. Bhanuprakash welcomed us there with a brief talk explaining the various activities of
IICT. Our visit coincided with IICT’s announcement of their new successful medicine for
Alzheimers. Evening, we went back to NIN to listen their director, Mr.Longvah’s speech and
to interact with some of their senior researchers. They have arranged a beautiful dance
program to entertain us and a delicious dinner to entertain our taste buds.
Third day, the announcement of visiting DRDO (Defence Research and Development
organization) came as an utmost surprise and it made our tour really exciting as it was not
there in our itinerary and we have been granted the permission at the last minute. After
seeing a short video of DRDO’s history and importance, they have taken us through the
gallery of India’s war missiles. There we have seen the detailed miniatures of our nation’s
various missiles like Agni, Prithvi, Nirbay, BrahMos, Nag, Akash ..etc. Senior Scientists
gave us a brief description about the special utility of each Missile. I was surprised to see
our Nation’s advancement in Arms and Ammunitions development. We were honoured to
see Dr. Satheesh Reddy – Director RCI and spent some time with him in an interactive
session. He shared some of his memories and interactions with Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. We
concluded our tour by giving a respectful visit to RCI residential compound where India’s
Missile Man used to stay. We felt his presence everywhere in that Garden as a pleasant
breeze. He is the man who established RCI and has seen its transcendence.
All the places we visited, we were treated with great hospitality and we were really surprised
with the enthusiasm of each scientists of these institutions. They were competing each other
in explaining the details of their activity and interacting with us to widen our knowledge.
I have gained lot of knowledge and made some new friends on this Tour. Thanks a lot,
SIF Bahrain and Vijnana Bharati for this opportunity.
Parinista Devdas
New Millennium School
On an Enlightened Path to Discovery –
Sastrayaan
Quite akin to the atmosphere at Charles Darwin’s Beagle before it set off on an incredible voyage
that changed the world, with baited breath and eager anticipation a SIF Team from Bahrain
comprising of Sastra Pratibhas, their parents and the members of SIF embarked on a
scientific voyage – "Sastrayaan’’ which would lead them to "City of Pearls’’ Hyderabad. The
itinerary meticulously planned in advance comprised of a three day tour of the City’s Premier
Scientific Institutions and a face to face interaction with the most Eminent Scientists of
India.
We touched down at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport on 27th of January in the middle of
the night to be greeted cordially by SIF/Vibha Officials and before the break of dawn, were
cloistered in a safe haven to revitalize the limbs and mind before embarking on an incredible
scientific journey.
Day1: Our hour long ride took us to our first stop which was the National Institution of
Nutrition. Celebrating its centenary, the NIN to its credit holds an impressive record of
achievements in the mitigation of several nutritional disorders in Indians. In the words of
its Head Scientist, it has been a major game changer in India’s fight against obesity and
malnutrition. NIN is a pioneer today on various aspects of nutrition research, with special
reference to PEM or protein energy malnutrition. After a lively interaction with the Head
Scientist on this topic (food/nutrition) and few other topics of national concern, we were given
a sneak peek into the ‘’Food and Toxicology’’ Division. The FDTRC a technological marvel
does insightful research in fungal toxins, pesticide residues, food additives, heavy metals,
pharmacokinetics, diet & chronic degenerative disorders and nutrient-drug interactions.
Our last visit for the day was to the ‘’Indian National Centre for Ocean Services’’. We were
stunned to see the wide expensive halls adorned by sophisticated machinery as if it were
from Sci-Fi movie. INCOIS has been at the forefront of disaster management system with its
unique Tsunami Warning system standing out. Besides such pioneering activities, it also
extends outstanding support scientifically towards the upliftment of the poor fisher folks
by providing them daily advisories to help them easily locate areas of abundant fish in the
ocean. The highlight of the day was watching the breathtaking operation of a 400 cm wide
Satellite Dish.
Tired but still excited about what lay in store on Day 2, we trudged back to our safe haven.
Day2: On the agenda was a visit to the sister institutions of CCMB (Center for Cellular
and Molecular Biology) and IICT (Indian Institute of Chemical Technology). Greeted by
breathtaking murals and frescoes which adorn the walls of CCMB, we were introduced to the
pioneering research areas it covered from Bio-Medicine to Genomics, from Cell/Molecular
Biology to Computational Biology and Bioinformatics. It was an awesome experience to have
my own DNA sequence mapped in the institution. After an exciting time at the CCMB, we
had the privilege of visiting IICT which happens to be one of the oldest National Labs under
CSIR. IICT today is an innovative global R&D organization with expertise in Chemistry
and Chemical Technology. It was awe inspiring to see Liquid Nitrogen, one of the coldest
substances known to humans, in action. An insightful and informative exchange with the
Head Scientist Dr. Bhanu Prakash will forever remain etched in my memory.
Two spectacular days done with a third bigger one was to follow.
Day3: Before we embarked on the Scientific Expedition, we had been told that the third day
would be used for sight-seeing to break the monotony. However behind the scenes the SIF
team and Vibha were tirelessly working out an extremely eventful visit. We were jumping
with joy when we were informed in the evening that we have had the clearance to visit DRDO.
Would you believe it, Research Center Imarat is the brain child of our foremost scientist and
our beloved former President, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. It was set up in the 70’s for Anti-Tank
Missile Testing. RCI today is considered as 'Avionics Hub' of DRDO. It is not only responsible
for development of missile systems but also the design, development and participation in
production of missile avionics like Inertial Navigation Systems, Control Systems, Real Time
Embedded Computers Systems etc. The first indigenous Trishul missile was successfully
flight tested with indigenous Control and Navigation Systems. Subsequently Prithvi, Agni,
Nag, Aakash etc. were successfully flight tested with indigenous avionic systems. We enjoyed
the privilege of an extensive tour of the facility. We were also accorded the privilege of visiting
Dr. Kalam’s former residence and his meditation spot in this vast complex.
With this we concluded an eponymous tour. As we were returning back to Bahrain, the one
thing which kept coming back was that we all embarked upon Sastrayaan as a Scientific
Voyage of the unknown but which ultimately achieved its objective of proving that Science is
indeed an endless horizon. Thanks to SIF Bahrain and Vibha, we had availed an unparalleled
privilege of visiting Iconic Indian Scientific Institutions. We returned not with our curiosity
satiated but rather amplified. The immortal words of Robert Frost echoes to highlight the
state of our nascent minds
‘…….I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.’’
Brindha Arumugasamy
The Indian School
MY SCIENCE EXPEDITION
TO MUMBAI
Being a part of Sastrayaan is a memory that collectors which helped in producing energy
I will cherish forever. It was an astounding required for common uses.We were lucky
opportunity which I, along with the other to get a chance to interact with Padmashri
Sastrayaan Sastra Pratibhas were blessed with. This Dr. Yadav, Vice Chancellor of the institute.
year we were given a chance to visit the
‘city of dreams’ Mumbai. A house to various By afternoon, we left for Indian Institute Of
research and development institutions. Technology, Mumbai, a very large campus
We started off to Mumbai on the 1st of containing various branches. To begin with,
February. On reaching Chatrapathi Shivaji we went to the Industrial Design Centre,
airport, we were warmheartedly welcomed an amazing design school where creativity
by the Vijnana Bharati team. plays a very important role. We were
mesmerized to see the different works and
The next day morning we started with our models done in each studio. They create
educational expedition. The first place masterpieces with common materials like
we went was the Institute of Chemical wood, metal, clay, plastic and bamboo. We
Technology, Mumbai where various also got to know how a laser cutter works.
chemical researches and studies were
being carried out. We interacted with The next place we visited in the campus
Dr. Anirudha who briefed us with everything was the Electrical Engineering department
about the activities and the functioning of which I felt was very informative .We ended
the institute. Then we were taken around the the first day after visiting yet another branch
building to see the working and components of IIT, named the Centre for Environmental
of numerous machines which were truly Science & Engineering. It was filled with
innovative and catchy such as the tablet knowledgeable people who guided us
punching machines, Dying machines, and presented us with a presentation on
Centrifugation machines and many more. asbestos and waste management. It was
The most interesting of these was the solar indeed a need-to-know for us youngsters.
3rd February was the most awaited day; we went on to Bhabha Atomic Research Center,
Trombay, home to India's largest nuclear research reactor. It is a highly secured area where
India’s precious minds work together to make India’s Nuclear Power highly beneficial for
the people. This was a real dream come true for me. We met Dr. Murali who shared with
us everything about the center, the researches, the Dhruva and the Cirus reactor. It was
mind-blowing to observe the Anupam Agra Supercomputer and the Tsunami Simulator.
Then, Dr. Chawla guided us on how the use of radiations in food and drug has resulted
in its betterment. Then we went to see the huge research reactor “Dhruva”. This made me
feel proud of my nation which is on a path achieving milestones. This exquisite journey for
me came to an end when we visited the Indian Institute of Geo Magnetism, well this as the
surprise of the whole trip, it was great experience to interact with scientists who had spent
6-12months at the Antarctica Research station.
This was all that I had been waiting for, a chance to visit the most splendid and scientific
places of the nation. It rose up my spirit and created my vision of emerging as a scientist to
serve my nation.
With Best
Compliments
From Former
Sastra Pratibha Parents
My satrayaan experience Chakradhara Chowdary
The Asian School
My name is Chakradhara Chowdary. I study in the 7th grade of the Asian School, Bahrain.
My trip to Mumbai was a very memorable one. I was really excited about the trip as it
was my first ever Sastrayaan trip. We were asked to assemble at the airport at 7:30PM.
The flight was at 10:30PM. We landed at The Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at
approximately 5:00AM.
On the first day, we went to ICT, which stands for Indian
Institute of Chemical Technology. We were first briefed
about the university’s background after which we saw
the Hall of Fame. The hall of fame was a hall where
pictures of famous pioneers in chemical technology
were present. Afterwards we were taken to the different
industries such as the Textile Industry, Chemical
Industry etc. Then we had a chance to meet the Vice-
Chancellor of ICT, Dr.G.D.Yadav. Then, after lunch we
went to IIT, Bombay, where we saw the IDC (Industrial
Design Centre). There we saw different studio’s such
as the Wood studio, Industrial studio, Clay studio and TRADING CO W.L.L
the Bamboo studio. Then we went to the Electronics
department, where we were shown 2 experiments.
Afterwards we went to the Environmental Department,
Where we were given 2 presentations. The 1st Presentation was about Asbestos, the aim Steel trades for
was to reuse the reusable and destroy the harmful. The 2nd was about Water Scenario in Oil & Gas services
Developing countries. We were explained about the different water scenarios in developing
countries.
On the 2nd day ie:3rd February
we went to BARC, Bhabha Atomic
Research Centre. Firstly, we
were briefed about the Institute’s
background. After which we were
taken to see the supercomputer
Anupam-Aggra. After that we went
to the Dhruva Research Reactor.
Due to age restriction we were not
able to go inside the reactor, so we
were explained about the working
of the reactor from outside with a SIAN TRADING CO.W.L.L
3-D model. After which we were P.O. Box: 28071, Ria, Kingdom of Bahrain
shown how radiation could be Tel.: +973 17233402
Email: [email protected]
used in food items. After lunch we went to the Bhabha Institute of Education. There we were
given a presentation about Ancient India’s contribution to Science. Next we were shown 2
experiments. Later in the evening, we had an interactive session with the senior members
of Vijnana Bharati.
On the 3rd day, it was sightseeing. First we went to Queen’s Necklace, which is the seacoast
of Mumbai. Then as a surprise we went to IIGM, which stand for Indian Institute of
Geomagnetism. We were first briefed about the institute’s history, then we were told where
the institute’s observatories were. We learnt that IIGM had been collecting data for the past
150 years. Then we saw the instruments that are used to measure geomagnetism. We had
the unique opportunity to talk to the scientists who have been part of the science expedition
to Antarctica. Then we went to The Gateway of India and The Taj Hotel. Then we were given
some time to explore the city. At 4:30 we returned to hotel and we went to the airport at
5:30.
The trip was highly educational and I would like to thank SIF-Bahrain for having given me
such a wonderful opportunity.
TRADING CO W.L.L
Steel trades for
Oil & Gas services
SIAN TRADING CO.W.L.L
P.O. Box: 28071, Ria, Kingdom of Bahrain
Tel.: +973 17233402
Email: [email protected]
SASTRAYAAN - Devika Babu
New Indian School
A mesmerising experience
IIT Bombay, BARC, ICT, Indian Institute of Geomagnetism, Homi. J. Bhabha Institute
of science and technology....... numerous appointments three days. This tightly packed
sastrayaan-2017 schedule frightened me. It was condescending, did my brain have enough
capacity to digest all these loads of information, would it overflow with brimming knowledge,
I was deeply concerned. Perhaps most of us were like-minded in this matter. But each
time the sun rose in those seventy two hours, it was determined to prove us wrong. How
wrong were we to reckon that we were to be bombarded with facts and figures, rather our
minds were kindled with wisdom, our hearts were enlightened with words and our life was
blessed with the strength of dreams. Through the course of three days thought we visited
various highly regarded institutions spread across branches of science that are poles apart,
they seemed to echo the same message of “ SCIENCE FOR SOCIETY” AND “ SCIENCE
FOR HUMANITY”. Somewhere through the course of the trip we realised as sastrayaan
was important for educating us students, there was a parallel hidden objective. An aim
to prepare and cultivate young Indian scientists, to solve problems that require scientific
intervention, to bring about a change in the society using the power of knowledge and to
help and serve humanity.
Our three day trip began with the visit to the institute of Chemical Technology. As an
outsider it was a decorated, amicable yet intriguing campus, brimming with talented minds
exploring science with test tubes, dyes, fabrics, biomass, solar energy and what not. It
was surprising to know that most of us were unaware of this amazing university which is
the second best in India and fourth best in the world. Interacting with the Vice Chancellor
Padmashree Dr. Yadav and Professor Pandit, we realised that the foundation to the success
of this institution was not built on high grade equipments or multi crore investment or
infrastructure but on the human emotion of ZEAL and PASSION for ones work and duty.
Next stop was IIT, Mumbai. A university which is no less than any treasure for most Indian
students, a campus popular in books and movies. Our first appointment in IIT was in the
Department of Industrial Design. A paradise for any artist, it captured my imagination.
Perhaps Dali, Da Vinci and Picasso were not mere artists but technicians who were smart
with science.
The entire building decorated with pottery, ceramics, car models, bamboo art and 3D
printers screamed ART.
From there we headed to the Departments of Electrical Engineering and Department of
Environmental Science. The visit to Department of Environmental Science was one of the
highlights of our trip to IIT. Interacting with a PhD student walked us through the patience
and hard work that has to be put in. Miss Richa Singh’s presentation on asbestos and her
plan to solve the problem threw more light on how a young scientist like her could bring
relief and reduce the hardship of thousands employed in this sector. It was a true example
of science in the service of society.
Day 2 was the most anticipated one, our trip to BARC. We were about to enter a building
which is of great importance to national security, a milestone opportunity. At BARC we
were briefed by Dr. Murali on the various stages of India’s nuclear program, there was also
a detailed explanation on how nuclear sciences are used to increase crop productivity, we
were permitted to witness the Anupam Agra Supercomputer and finally we were explained
the working of the Dhruva reactor.
Then we were off to Homi. J. Bhabha Institute of Science and Technology where we were
taught the importance of good observation through a variety of interactive experiments,
which required us to flex our brain muscles.
Day 3 we began the day with our appointment to Indian Institute of Geo Magnetism, Colaba.
We had good interaction with Mr. Deshmukh and Mr. Kulkarni. The man’s fascination to
magnets and desire to learn more about it can be traced through a long chain of events
of which this geomagnetic observatory is an important link. It was a good example of
India’s scientific excellence. During our interaction we were most excited to know about
Mr. Sudarshan who was a part of India’s 35th expedition to Antarctica. His experience has
already turned into a travel dream.
Summing up, this trip proved how much could be done with little time through precise
planning. I embarked on this journey to hunt the future me, but I ended up envisioning
a future India. That is the beauty of this trip as the BARC slogan goes “ATOMS IN THE
SERVICE OF NATION’’ we should all be like these atoms, chasing our individual dreams
but contributing immensely to the nation’s greater dream.
Mission: Sastrayaan Sama Umesh Walke
New Millennium School
For me it all started right from the day the announcement of Sastra Pratibha contest was
made in mid-2016. This was followed by qualifying rounds for level 1 and level 2, leading
to winning the prestigious ‘Sastra Pratibha’ title in October, meeting prominent scientists
and technocrats at ‘Meet the Scientist’ and other such programs and finally getting
a chance to attend the coveted ‘Sastrayaan’. For me each of these stages of knowledge
transfer and enrichment seemed similar to the stages of ISRO’s successful maiden mission
– ‘Mangalyaan’, from the launch stage, to the stage when India's first interplanetary probe
successfully entered into the Mars orbit. While this entire journey gave me an immense
learning experience at every stage, the three day ‘Sastrayaan’ trip to Mumbai, held in the
first week of February, acted as the pinnacle of this entire voyage.
Three cheers to Science India Forum, Bahrain, Vijnana Bharati and Indian Embassy,
Bahrain, for meticulously organising the entire Sastrayaan 2017 educational trip so well.
Thanks to them, we not only got a chance to visit some of the most scientifically and
technologically advanced research facilities and prestigious institutes like the Bhabha
Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Institute of Chemical
Technology (ICT) and Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIGM) in Mumbai, but also got
the opportunity to meet and interact with some of the best scientists and professors
from these esteemed organizations. The first-hand practical learning experience through
demonstrations, guided tours and site visits at these facilities under the able guidance
of these eminent scientists and professors was truly remarkable. It was an educationally
enriching experience for me and have thoroughly benefitted from it.
Upon reaching Mumbai, on the very first day, we had an intellectually stimulating interaction
with Professor A. B. Pandit and one of his PHD student, who told us about IICT, its glorious
history, and remarkable achievements and showed us around the campus. We learnt a
great deal about chemical engineering, biosciences, dyestuff technology, textile processing,
pharmaceutical sciences and technology from them. This was followed by another round of
interaction with Vice Chancellor Padmashree Dr. G. D. Yadav, who enlightened us further
about the various courses and researches carried out at ICT.
Later in the day, upon reaching IIT Powai, we started-off with the Industrial Design Centre,
where they had a lot of research studios for working on different materials. We had the
opportunity to visit the Wood Studio, Clay Studio, Plastic Studio, Metal Studio and Bamboo
Studio, where we saw a lot of hi-tech gadgets, equipment and tools like laser printers, 3D
printers, scanners, top-notch computers and much more. We then visited the Electrical
Engineering Department, where the professor explained and demonstrated various functions
and applications of electrical motors, circuits and components. All this exposure not only
aroused my curiosity to its peak but also enhanced my knowledge further. We then went
to the Centre for Environmental Science & Engineering Department, where the research
scholars along with their Professor Shyam R. Asolekar discussed varied interesting topics
like waste water treatment and harmful substances like the asbestos material, just to name
a few. Ms. Richa Singh, one of the research scholar, or shall I call her, ‘Richa tai’, (meaning
elder sister in Marathi), as affectionately introduced by her Professor, explained us about
the harmful effects of asbestos material in detail. I was totally enthralled by her aptitude
and the ease with which this young research scholar explained such an intricate topic. I
was also thoroughly impressed by her personality and the wit with which she presented
herself. This left a lasting impression on my mind and revealed the secret behind these
IITians vibrancy.
We spent the next day at BARC. I was totally bewildered by the sheer enormity of its campus.
We had some exceptionally informative and interactive sessions with the scientists and
dignitaries at BARC that day. We also got the opportunity to see Anupam, the supercomputer
designed and developed by BARC, which left me totally awestruck. I was left mesmerized
when I came to know its computing speed, which was a whopping 110 teraflop. We then
went to the Dhruva Research Reactor, also known as R-5, which is India's largest research
reactor. I was astonished by the complexity of this reactor. The BARC scientists also
educated us with the food preservation process using radiation techniques and how India
has advanced in food preserving technology over the years. Knowing this, I really felt proud
of India's rapid advancement in all these scientific fields.
Later that day we attended an interactive session with the teachers and professors of Homi
Bhabha Centre for Science Education, who also conducted some intriguing experiments,
which made us put on our thinking caps as we watched live experiments with amazement.
These interactions and experiments inspired me a lot. Later that evening we also had
interaction with some prominent dignitaries from Vijnana Bharati. It was an informative
interaction which helped me think in a different analytical way and with a new perspective
never thought before.
The third day was spent visiting IIGM, which added another feather to our cap, as we learnt
a whole lot of new things about geomagnetism for the very first time. I
immediately developed an interest for this new subject, which I found
very intriguing and captivating.
Finally, we visited the Gateway of India followed by a shopping
spree after which we wound-up our three-day educational trip.
To encapsulate, this educational trip has enhanced my
knowledge and understanding of numerous advanced
fields of science and technology like biosciences,
dyestuff technology, textile processing,
pharmaceutical sciences, nuclear science,
radioactivity, its applications and various
uses for the betterment of mankind and the
environment overall, acquired information
about various streams of engineering,
chemical technology and geomagnetism. The
positive energy in the surrounding due to the
various activities and collective knowledge at BARC,
IIT, IICT and IIG campuses were absolutely astounding.
It was undoubtedly a unique learning experience,
where this enlightening trip gave me an insight into these
prestigious organisations, their functions, applications, roles
and the contribution they make towards the development of the
society. Having acquired this priceless treasure of knowledge and
wisdom, I am sure it will help me immensely to mould my career and
hone my skills in the best possible way. This was undoubtedly the most
memorable and enriching trip for me till date which I shall cherish for a long
time to come. Above all, this inspiring journey has not only been a wonderful
learning experience, but also an occasion to understand and celebrate India’s
advancement in the field of science and technology.
Scien ce -
Service to Mankind Steffy Ann Philip
The Indian School
February 1, a day when I realized how blessed I was. It was exhilarating moment when the
Sastrayaan team boarded the flight to start off the educational trip to Mumbai. A cavalcade
of emotions took over me ‘excitement, anxiety of exams and happiness being part of the
trip’. The destination of our educational trip was ‘Mumbai- the City of seven islands’. We felt
home with the warm welcome of the SIF Officials. From there we were taken to our place of
residence- MIG Cricket Club.
After a short nap we set off to the Institute of Chemical Technology- the alma mater of the
highest number of PhD holders. The research work that was going on in such a huge campus
was an eye opener. More than anything the mysteries of Science was getting unfolded slowly.
It was a rich and enlightening experience. An exhibition of the legendaries and luminaries
of Science was organized. It was a rare experience to probe into their contributions and
understand their unparalleled passion. The various branches of Science like textile Industry,
food industry, pharmaceuticals, refined oil (oleo chemicals) and surfactants technology
trickled curiousity in me. The department of food and engineering technology was of special
interest. Researches on how Indian cuisine and culture should have a global recognition
were going on. Focus was on fermentation techniques. Wow! A splendid idea to make idli and
dosas in just one hour. The textile industry focused on making eco friendly fabrics while the
engineering department focused on different ways of harnessing energy from Mother Earth.
A mastermind project was utilizing solar energy without actual use of photovoltaic cells.
Collaborative projects which were of industrial importance were set up by the department
of Chemical engineering. Researches were going on in polymer and surface engineering,
working on the scales of atom to atmosphere. Their passion in the researches, their patience
to carry out experiments, their determination and motivation to pursue harder in spite of
failures gave me a new perspective on the outlook of life. The infrastructure and lab facilities
of the campus were amazing. Above all, I felt humbled and praised God- the Chemical
Engineer at the intricacy of his creation.
Afternoon and evening were engaged in the IIT Bombay. The core area of visit was the
Industrial Design Centre (IDC) which was a hub of creativity linking innovation to human
need and visualizing designs. The IDC focuses on Industrial design, Communication design,
Animation and interaction design, Mobility and Vehicle design. It was amazing to see a
historical event being replicated- The Dandi March of India. We could witness ideas being
visually transformed to various products. I felt proud that India is shaping minds of students
to be more thoughtful, analytic, creative and responsible. The evening was spent listening
to the presentation of some of the outstanding students of IIT. Their contributions were in
making a pollution free world. I just admired the vision of these research scholars, giving
back to the society what they have learnt. After all Science is all about being human.
The second day visit was to the most prestigious Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. In fact
I was startled by the safety and monitoring devices. It was indeed a blessing to be in that
campus. Thanks to SIF Bahrain and Vijnana Bharati for their Herculean efforts to get
permission. Nuclear physics and reactors seemed monotonous during the routine class
hours but to see and understand their functioning was such a bliss. The supercomputer
and its uses, the strategic aspects of our atomic power and the meetings with the scientists
was a rare opportunity. We also had the exquisite privilege to visit the Dhruva Reactor. This
was followed by a session on the application of gamma rays and its uses in food and medical
technology. Introduction of oral vaccines seemed great.
The evening was spent in Homi Bhabha Science Centre where the practicability of Science
was tested. We were given an elaborate lecture on how to answer Science Olympiad questions.
The evening was fun with hands on experimenting toppled by analytical thinking. We left no
time unproductive. Back in the hotel we had a detailed interaction with some of the senior
members of Vijnana Bharati. Really admired their zeal to come all the way and spent time
with us.
The third day was a bit of surprise. It was a great privilege to visit the Indian Institute of
Geomagnetism. Though the benefits of geomagnetism are enjoyed by all of us, I came to
know about the practical applications in this area. Antique devices to measure the dip angle
of Earth’s magnetism were displayed. The life experiences of research scholars who visited
Antarctica were thrilling. The concluding part of the trip was spending an hour in front of
our own pride- Gateway of India. A big salute to the great ancestors for their architectural
design. Then we rushed through the streets of Mumbai for a bit of shopping. Boarding
the flight back to Bahrain I felt that this trip had made me rich in experience, thorough in
scientific concepts and a better human being with great environmental sensitivity. Landing
in Bahrain and again welcomed by the SIF Bahrain team, I felt speechless at the meticulous
planning done by them. The SIF volunteers who accompanied us Mr. Prasanth, Mr. Sham
and Mr. Chandran deserve a bouquet of appreciation for being so approachable and devoted
to the cause of Science, taking care of each and every aspect.
I strongly believe that such educational trips will give students an insight into Science and
thus nurture their innovation skills. It will empower students to respond to the needs and
opportunities of time in socially and environmentally responsible
ways.
Adhik Narayan
The Asian School
on glass, ceramics, refractories etc. We had
Journey to unknown an interaction session with the director
of the facility Dr. K Muraleedharan. We
visited optical fibre division, refractories
This year Science India Forum, Bahrain and traditional ceramics division, ceramic
arranged an educational trip “Sastrayaan” water treatment division, glass division,
for the Sastra Pratibhas to Kolkata from 31st RSW glass making division and bio ceramics
January to 2nd February. The trip comprised division. We got to know more about how
thirty five members including Sastra Pratibhas, glass and ceramics can be used in water
their parents and SIF representatives. treatment, medical field, atomic reactors,
and telescopes.
First day, 31st January, we visited Variable
Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC). It is a research After this spectacular visit, we visited Bose
facility of the Department of Atomic Energy Institute. Bose institute was established
(DAE) which researches with Cyclotrons and by Sir Jagdish Chandra Bose with the
Nuclear Physics. It is the only research facility extended help of Swami Vivekananda and
dealing with cyclotrons in India. We had an Sister Nivedita. We visited the institute’s
interaction session with senior scientists which garden which had many types of plants.
were a great opportunity to all Sastra Pratibhas. We saw the mausoleum of J.C Bose. We
We visited their supercomputer lab, cryogenics also visited the institute’s prestigious
lab and the superconducting cyclotron. The auditorium which was one of a kind,
visit to VECC helps us to know more about digital microscopic lab, a small pond
cryogenics, cyclotrons, superconductivity and for the memory of Sister Nivedita. The
their use in the field of medicine. museum which we visited described about
the life of Sir Jagdish Chandra Bose and
After this fantabulous experience we visited his inventions in the field of Botany and
Saha Institute for Nuclear Physics.The institute Wireless Communication. We were told by
is named after a famous astrophysicist, the museum curator that, the institutes
Meghnad Saha under the administration of symbol ‘VAJRA’ which symbolises
Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). There indestructibility and irresistible force.
we saw a special type of pendulum which
moves according to the movement of earth. The last day, 02nd February, we visited
We also visited their science gallery, Electron Science City. Science City is one of the
microscopic lab, doping detector etc. The largest and finest science museums in
one which impressed me was the ‘Five Axis India. There we saw the Evolution of life
Observatory Room’ which had a telescope. ride, Planetarium, Panoramic movie on
From that observatory room we can see Saturn human Evolution, Dynamotion hall etc.
rings at night. The visit helps me to understand more
about dynamotion, evolution of dinosaur
The second day, 01st February, we visited and humans.
Central Glass and Ceramics Research Institute
(CGCRI). It is a national research institute The Sastrayan trip will be one of the
under Council of Scientific and Industrial unforgettable and most informative trips in
Research (CSIR). It is a centre which researches my school life.
Proud To Be An Indian
Proud To Be A Sastra
Some memories and experiences live like they have been engraved in the
golden core of our heart. One such infinite memory that I cherish is my
visit to Kolkata. It was my second time with SIF to India yet I was pretty
excited.
The chilly blooming dawn of January 31st marked our arrival at
the prestigious Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose international airport .
Sleeplessness reflected, yet the journey of learning was to awake a few
hours later in the Esteem Hotel in Calcutta after a few hours of sleep and
refreshments. All the excited students,proud parents and SIF officials jumped
into a city service bus and off we went to an institution of quite long history-
the VECC.It was majestic- the labs, people and the beautiful natural learning
habitat. This was the variable energy cyclotron center. Pioneering in cyclotron
technology and variable energy applications, the place opened to us a door to
see one of India's finest laboratories.
VECC has successfully taken India to an international level by collaborating with
CERN. It was a miracle when the senior scientists efficiently communicated with
us in a friendly manner making us grasp the fundamentals of nuclear physics.
Many of the scientists eagerly stood long hours to share and answer our rather
immature curiosity. After their lunch, we arrived at our next dramatic exposure- the Saha Institute of
Nuclear Physics. By half an hour we had seen pretty lot of pendulums, telescopes and microscopes. A
biology division showed us the stains with stunning natural and artificial origin that they use in their
complex microscopes. Then they introduced to us the concept behind the LHC or the large hadron
collider which has recently assumed great value in all sciences. The scientists seemed young and
lively inspirits when they saw us approaching the institution meant for further studies. It must have
made them imagine their school days.
After a good night’s sleep, we visited th CGCRI or the Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute.
After a brief discussion with the director we were provided with our tour plan and our trip began.
We visited the photonics and fiber optics division, water technology and glass division,refractory and
traditional ceramics division, specialty glass technology division and the bio-ceramics and coating
division. They introduce to us the basic concepts regarding glass and ceramics. The enthusiastic
scientist were enjoying our questions and gave us quick detailed answers. We found the use of
ceramics in our body, production of giant glass slabs and nuclear waste immobilization technique.
At first, many of us taught that CGCRI would just be some glass and pottery. Yet, this extra ordinary
institution under the CSIR opened our ignorant eyes to a rapidly advancing international research
spectrum.After a good lunch we went into history of Indian science.
We arrived on the grounds of Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose. As I looked at the 100 year old
institution, I felt the presents of Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, Sister Niveditha and many others. Our
parents visited the museum while we visited the institution. In the institution we saw all of bose’s
historic equipments, references, works, the original copies of his books, patents and much more. We
saw the auditorium or the lecture hall that he built. We also saw his inscriptions and the frescoes
made by students of Tagore school on its ceiling as a dedication. By the time we finished, it was late
evening. After bidding farewell to all the unique scientists, we moved towards our hotel to awake for
the finale. The next day we visited the Science City that attracted people from all over asia. It is one of
the largest of its kind in Asia itself. There, we journeyed from the creation of solar system to the earth
and met the dinosaurs and the ice age. Then we saw the first monkeys and the man we are today. We
saw the satellite visuals of planets and saw an awe inspiring movie in 3D called Museum Alive. Along
with their lunch, it was an unforgettable experience. Then we saw the Hoogly river, Howrah bridge,
Victoria Memorial and Sealdah railway station. Later came the much awaited time-the shopping.
Within two hours everyone rushed into the market and bought all that they desired. After shopping
we could nearly say, that we were done with Kolkata.
The fresh scent of bengal’s culture remained even when we arrived in Bahrain. I would love to thank
all our dearest SIF members for giving us this wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I went back
home with memories and felt pride as I gazed upon my Indian passport.
Piyush Rajesh
Al Noor International School
SASTRAYAAN – A travelogue of science journey
The educational trip organized by Science India Forum Bahrain to Mumbai was “Sastrayaan”
in its true sense. We got once in a life-time opportunity to visit premier scientific institutes in
Mumbai and to interact with great scientists and academicians.
At the airport, representatives of Vijnana Bharati received us. It was solely because of the
consistent efforts of officials of Vijnana Bharati and SIF the tour turned out to be so informative
and educational.
On the first day of our trip, we visited Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT). This institute
focusses on research in Chemical Engineering and allied fields. In an interactive session with
senior professors, we became aware of the illustrious journey of ICT since its establishment
in 1933 and about various departments in the institute. We also became more aware of the
responsibility that lies on our shoulders regarding conservation of energy. Interaction with the
Vice Chancellor of ICT, Prof. G. D. Yadav was truly inspiring. We also visited some departments
such as food, pharmaceutical, department of fibers and textile processing technology etc. It
was truly inspiring and knowledge filled interactive sessions with the researchers working on
different projects.
In the Afternoon, we went to Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mumbai. We visited various well-
structured laboratories and attended presentation on topics that are related to environmental
conservation. The presentations on treatment of asbestos and conservation of water were very
informative. Research on the topic “Green Chemistry” in these laboratories surely is paving the
way for making life more sustainable on Earth.
The following day we visited Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). In an interactive talk,
we got the glimpse of different aspects of nuclear research for peaceful purposes. The thrill on
watching the CIRUS reactor and the now-active Dhruva reactor cannot be put into words. We
could also see the supercomputer “Anupam” that has been indigenously developed by BARC.
We were also shown application of radiation in producing modified food items with improved
characteristics.
Later, we visited the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education. We discovered the fun side
of science and about the importance of “out-of-box” thinking in the growth of science and the
importance of “observation”
The last day of the trip was a surprise as it was an unannounced visit, we visited Indian Institute
of Geomagnetism (IIGM). We enjoyed the sessions with seniors scientists working there, who
shared with us their rich and varied experiences, from recording data of earth’s magnetic field
to their visits to Antarctica. They also briefed us about the evolution of various instruments that
have been used to record data on geomagnetism.
In the last step of the tour, we visited Gateway of India that has a unique place in the history
of India.This tour will be forever etched in my memory as the experience that has reinforced my
love for science. It was a gateway to the world of scientific development and research. I thank
the officials of Vijnana Bharati and SIF-Bahrain for making the tour possible.
I am Rishaban of Grade X
representing New Millennium School
and I would like to share my experience
with Science India Forum.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Science
India Forum, Bahrain (SIF), Vijnana Bharathi of India for
organizing the educational trip to the most leading scientific research
organizations of India.
The visit to the Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre at Bidhanangar, Kolkata provided me
with the knowledge of understanding the super conducting cyclotron which accelerates
nuclei by a rapidly varying (radio – frequency) electric field. Variable Energy Cyclotron
was the first indigenously made large accelerator in the country.
Our first day visit was to the Variable Energy Cyclotron (VECC) and Saha Institute of
Nuclear Physics. The interactive sessions with the Director and Senior scientists in
Saha institute were enriching our knowledge.
At VEC, the super conducting cyclotron uses superconducting technology to produce
intense magnetic field required to bend the particle path. It has been commissioned
with internal beam. Beam extraction efforts are being carried out at present.
Combating Global Crises of Technetium – 99m – TCM AUTOSOLEX is a computer
controlled indigenous system developed by VECC for utilization of reactor to obtain
pharmaceutical grade Techetium-99m which allows easy installation in hospitals for
scanning of bones in humans with TCM.
At Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics we visited the lab, where MEGNATH SAHA performed
his experiments. The scientists showed us the cyclotron that was under construction.
We had the opportunity to see the magnet technology used in the cyclotron. We were
amazed to see cutting of steel using high pressurized water. During the visit in the
institute we had the opportunity to see the First Electron Microscope of India constructed
by Prof. N.N. DASGUPTA in the year 1948. The BIG BANG Theory was clearly illustrated
on the walls of the institute. The pictures on the wall illustrated the entire life cycle of
stars starting with protostars to giant gaseous stars. Stars born of gas and dust shine
billions of years, die and return to new stars.we had an opportunity to learn about
famous scientists who contributed to science and technology.
Second day our visit was to CGCRI – Central Glass and Ceramics Research Institute,
Kolkata.
Fifty varities of glass are made here one of them was a special type of glass that could
shield a person from radiation. It contains 70% lead. It was known as the Radiation
shielding window. It is made at 1400 degrees Celsius. It is 20% opaque. There were
ceramic balls that were designed to substitute hip-joints in case of hip-fracture.
All the communication in the city could be handled on a single fibre. Fibre optics is
made out of glass. Our next visit was to the BOSE Institute and ACHARYA BHAVAN.
In the Bose Institute we saw the scientific instruments. JC BOSE invented more
than 150 scientific instruments. We saw few of them. We saw one of his compound
lever crescograph, lot of letters written by JC Bose to his Bengali friends such as
RABINDRANATH TAGORE. His life with Sister Nivedhitha & SWAMI VIVEKANANDA and
how they influenced his life were illustrated there. JC Bose was the first person in the
world to use Wireless Technology to fire a pistol at the Presidency College of Kolkatta.
We visited his lecture hall where most of his famous lectures took place.
That evening we had meeting with the scientists on ETHICAL HACKING STATISTICS.
They also explained how communications were done in the olden days. We received book
titled SISTER NIVEDITA READER which was written by scientist Dr. Pataki C Banerjee.
Third day we went to Science city. We enjoyed the view of live constellations and
information about the space. In the science city, we went to the science exploration hall,
where we had a ride in the dark which showed us the evolution of life where mammals,
reptiles and dinosaurs models were kept.
Many interesting games like energy ball, science on a sphere, vertigo tunnel. Optical
illusions were attractive. We visited space theatre, where they showed us the evolution
of human life on a spinning platform, which showed us that life started about 2 billion
years ago with complex cells called Eukaryotes to HomoSapiens which are our own
ancestors who came into existence only about 200 thousand years ago.
All these things gave an insight of how science play an important role in our day to day
life.
I take this opportunity to thank each member of SIF, Bahrain for giving me the opportunity
to understand the facility, strength and contribution of India in Science and Technology.
Definitely the experience that I had, will be life defining one and lays a clear pathway for
my career and future as a contributor toward Science & technology to support.
Nishanth Nithyananda
Al Noor International School
Memoirs of A Trip
Down The Memory Lane
3835 kilometers away from the chilly winters of Bahrain, little did I know, that even in my
wildest dreams that three days in the City of Joy, would embellish my horizon of dreams
with the most picturesque rainbow, I had ever seen or will I ever see. As an award for
excelling in the Shastra Pratibha Contest for the second time, the Science India Forum,
Bahrain had a lot of things in store for the Shastra Pratibhas in the Birthplace of Modern
Indian Sciences. Here we received a once-in-a- lifetime opportunity of paying a visit to the
great institutions of our motherland.
30th January was the day when we embarked on our journey to the grand old city, as
we geared up to merge into the world of science. On the early spring morning of 31st
January we were given a warm hearty welcome with an everfresh garland by Mr. Abga and
Mr. Shivprasad, the Vijnana Bharati representatives at the Netaji Subash Chandra Bose
International Airport. After a bit of refreshment, we proceeded on our journey to the theatre
of India’s Atomic Odyssey.
We embarked on our Odyssey at the Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC) which is
under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India. We were privileged to
have Mr. Tanmoy Das, who is a Scientific Officer (E) and Dr. Jajati Nayak, a Scientific Officer
(F) and to have given us a tour of a completely new branch of Nuclear Physics, which was
ever known to us- Cyclotron Energy. We were given a briefing by Mr. Gopal Mukherjee, who
is the PAC of VECC at the state-of-the-art Ajay Divatia Lecture Hall about the institution’s
history and the predominant researches which are undertaken here. We were given a tour of
India’s Variable Energy Cyclotron which is mainly an atom smasher. This is mainly used for
the production of medical isotopes. We were informed of India’s plans of a Super Conducting
Cyclotron which could offer zero resistance and could be used for fundamental research in
Nuclear Physics. A Cyclotron is an accelerator that accelerates positively charged particles.
We visited the Radioactive Ion Beam (RIB) Facility and the Cryogenic Plant of VECC and are
one of its kind in the world. We were also shown how the VECC has collaborated with R&D
Centres such as European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), Geneva; Brookhaven
National Laboratory (BNL), New York and Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research (FAIR),
Germany.
In the afternoon, we paid a visit to the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics (SINP) which is also
under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). Here we were guided by Dr. Jisnu Basu who
first took us through a gallery, which showed us the life of Dr. Meghnad Saha, his fields of
interests and his contribution to Modern Indian Sciences. We first visited the Biophysics
and Structural Genomics Division, where we were demonstrated about a machine known as
JOKOMAT by Dr. Soumen Kanti Manna. Although it was a difficult concept to comprehend,
Dr. Manna explained it to all of us in the simplest terms. The JOKOMAT is a machine which
is able to segregate sub-atomic particles from a molecule or compound and works on the
basis of Mass Pictomerography. We next visited the Facility for Research in Experimental
Nuclear Astrophysics (FRENA) under the Nuclear Synthesis Division. Here we saw a Super
Conducting Ion Accelerator which was imported from the Netherlands. Here students from
the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai and the Bhabha Atomic Research
Centre, Mumbai come for further studies and research. We then paid visits to the MN Saha
Observatory and the Water Jet Cutting Apparatus, which has the capacity to cut even steel
when water is exerted at a pressure of 94000 Psi. A peek into our atomic capabilities ended
our exciting journey into the theatre of India’s Atomic Odyssey.
Day two, 1st February was as memorable and exciting as the first day. In the morning, we
paid a visit to the Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute (CGCRI) under the Council
of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The CSIR has 40 institutes under it, which
are spread across the length and breadth of our nation where fundamental researches on
various fields and subjects are undertaken. We were first taken to the Atma Ram Conference
Hall, where we were briefed by Dr. K Muraleedharan, the Director of CGCRI about the
institute and the topics of research they have undertaken and their applications in the past,
at the present and in the near future. We paid visits to the Fibre Drawing Tower and were
explained about how it can be used in the connectivity in rural area. We also witnessed how
Ceramics can be used to filter water and remove arsenic from it which is very economic and is
already in use across the rural areas of West Bengal. We were taught about the applications
of Glass Lasers in launching missiles and satellites to help focus on its trajectory. We also
witnessed how plasma coating and 3D-Printing are used in the medical field.
Post-lunch, we paid visits to the Acharya JC Bose Institute. We witnessed the scientific
instruments and the commemorative items of Acharya Bose. We were shown the Presidency
College Experiment which showed the discovery of Microwaves in 1894. We were demonstrated
the working principles of some of Bose’s pioneering instruments and inventions along with
his archival papers, correspondences and publications.
Back in the hotel, we had a truly informative interaction with some of the scientific luminaries
who ranged from varied fields. We got to interact with Dr. Bimal Roy (Former Director,
Indian Statistical Institute), Dr. Kalyan Kumar Ganguly (Central Institute of Mining and Fuel
Research and Indian Council of Medical Research), Reeta Bhattacharya (National Secretary,
Shakti, Women Wing of Vigyan Bharati) and Mrs. Mayuri (Co-Convener, Vidhyarthi Vigyan
Manthan). We also got a golden opportunity to interact with Pataki C. Banerjee (Indian
Institute of Chemical Biology). Pataki Sir gave us a copy of his newly-published book, Sister
Nivedita. This interaction was just an icing on our scientific cake.
On the third day, 2nd February we visited the Science City, where we learnt a lot
of scientific concepts in a fun and interesting manner. Here we conducted a
lot of scientific activities and were able to grasp the concepts that prevailed
the experiments conducted. From the Evolution of Human Life-forms to
the 3D-Show, there was no concept of science that was untouched. Here
we got a rare opportunity to interact with Mr. Jayant Sahasrabudhe, the
Honourable Secretary General of Vigyan Bharati. He shared his valuable
scientific insight with us despite of his tightly packed schedule. This was
nothing but the toppings of cherries and nuts over the icing of our scientific
cake.
We returned to Bahrain with the zeal and the driving spirit to contribute towards
India’s field of science and technology. There was only one burning desire within us
that is to become notable citizens and serve our great mother land.
is highly Radioactive and people are not supposed to go there. Similar, but smaller cyclotron
are used in cancer treatments and other MRI, CTI scans.
At the same institute, we had other explanations on Large Hadron Collider at CERN (Conseil
Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire). We had a very detailed explanation on reaction with
quarks, leptons and mesons with the relation of birth of the universe. The main motive of the
LHC experiment is to find out the hidden mysteries of the Big Bang theory and events before
the singularity. The experts at VECC had contributed towards a very important and ground
breaking discovery of high energy photons & gamma rays. The scientist explained this
technology implemented in LHC in a very basic and easy-to-follow method. The high energy
photons, on reacting with a metal forms free electrons. This is due to law of pair production.
Srevin Saju I was indeed elated to know how India indigenously produces the photon detectors, which
The New Indian School
are really hard to produce not only for CERN, but also for other countries.
We had a very elaborate lunch at the grandeur of VECC's Royal Guest house. We relaxed
A Science Odyssey into quite a while and went over to the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics which is a few kilometres
away from VECC. This sister organisation of VECC also contributed to the CERN's LHC.
the heart of Indian Science We had a warm welcome there as well. The first destination was to the Meghnad Saha
Auditorium. It had artefacts which could have been viewed in detail, but due to lack of time
as SPs have to visit and understand the various laboratories of Meghnad Saha Institute.
The science we know today is comparably miniscule than what it is actually. Scientists Before the pass-over to the laboratories, the director of SINP (Saha Institute of Nuclear
have been tremendously working on scientific machines and statistics, keeping in mind Physics) directed our attention to a special pendulum which changes its angle with time.
their main goal as to find the past and to make the future, where we live a better one, a
more sustainable one for the humanity. And the Sastra Pratibha Educational trip had been The team was once again split into two, Junior and Senior Category. As an SP of the Senior
fundamental in enlightening the young hidden aspirant scientists within us. Category, we went to a biophysics related lab. The mind-blowing scientist at the lab explained
to us his machine, known as spectrometer, and the principles of working in a very simplistic
I am really proud to be an Indian along with being a Sastra Pratibha. It was henceforth, I but well defined manner. He explained us the differences in properties of different proteins,
understood the concealed power of Indian Scientists. SIF Bahrain had featured a unique elements and compounds in their speed, polarity etc. He briefly explained how his machine
opportunity to all the 16 of us to meet and interact with eminent scientists of various can be used to do a detailed study on diseases and statistical probability of acquiring the
branches of science, who work together and to make the flag of India, flown in full glory. disease under the intervention of a bacterial or viral compound. As we had been to VECC,
we linked the working of the machine to a smaller particle accelerator.
The educational journey was a three day trip from 30th of January, evening, to 3rd of
February, morning, to the land of Rabindranath Tagore, the birthplace of nuclear science Specifically, we visited the Saha Observatory, where we saw a remotely powered telescope
and scientists in India, at the very heart of West Bengal, Kolkata. The team was headed by which was used by many students at the institute in their research projects. We saw a
Mr Anilal (Vice President of SIF Bahrain) and we were accompanied by Dr Vinod Manikkara latest machine brought into SINP was a steel cutting machine. Here, water at high pressure
(President of SIF Bahrain) along with 34 members including the 16 proud Sastra Pratibhas. about tons of Pascals are used to cut steel which are thick up to 6”. Before leaving SINP,
We landed in Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Airport on 31st January, early morning. we were taken to the cabin of an eminent professor and scientist, in the field of plasma
physics, Prof Janaki Sita, The scientist was very happy to see the group of small Sastra
SIF Bahrain had featured this year, a detailed explanation in the field of particle accelerator. Pratibhas and was deeply elated to take us to see the Tokamak, which is the only and oldest
On 31st January, on this very remarkable day, we visited the very eminent research institutes Plasma generating machine in India. A new one is being developed in Andhra Pradesh, but
of India, and it possesses the oldest and longest working cyclic particle accelerator, or a we were excited in seeing the Tokamak which was used since past and had already done a
Cyclotron in Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC) lot of experiments. The largest one is made by ITER. As this machine, which is up to a size
of a big living room, requires a lot of energy, smaller experiments are conducted in India
Cyclotron is basically a particle accelerator which accelerates a positively or negatively and other rare places of the world. The main motive of utilizing plasma energy is that it is
charged ion progressively using large magnetic device which is in the shape of the letter a green, eco friendly fuel, it does not produce greenhouse gas, it can produce energy upto
D, and hence called Dee's. These magnets are alternatively powered and this causes the 10000000 K, and else more. What a Tokamak does is the creation of plasma material which
charged particle to travel in a spiral path. This can later used to various researches and has a lot of potential for energy harnesses. The only catastrophe in making this potential
energy derivatives. resources, downlisted just to as stock, is because plasma is a high energy excited material
and highly unstable. The main aim of the plasma-physics is to increase the amount of time
Our team was divided into two groups. One includes the Sastra Pratibha's of classes 5-8, and in retaining the material in the form of plasma for a quite longer time. We were quite amazed
the senior category had classes 9-11, so the teaching and learning exposure can be variably as the scientist said that, the Tokamak in Kolkata has been able to retain the plasma state
adjusted. I am proud to say that, from the senior section, we visited three internal chambers in high magnetic energy for quite a long time in the past, that's a few microseconds. Due
of the superconducting Cyclotron, recently built due to favourable circumstances. The other to investment problems, this plasma energy potential is halted at ITER. Probably, we might
larger, but less efficient Cyclotron was in a working stage. Hence, we couldn't go there as it unveil this energy of the future.
is highly Radioactive and people are not supposed to go there. Similar, but smaller cyclotron
are used in cancer treatments and other MRI, CTI scans.
At the same institute, we had other explanations on Large Hadron Collider at CERN (Conseil
Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire). We had a very detailed explanation on reaction with
quarks, leptons and mesons with the relation of birth of the universe. The main motive of the
LHC experiment is to find out the hidden mysteries of the Big Bang theory and events before
the singularity. The experts at VECC had contributed towards a very important and ground
breaking discovery of high energy photons & gamma rays. The scientist explained this
technology implemented in LHC in a very basic and easy-to-follow method. The high energy
photons, on reacting with a metal forms free electrons. This is due to law of pair production.
Srevin Saju I was indeed elated to know how India indigenously produces the photon detectors, which
The New Indian School
are really hard to produce not only for CERN, but also for other countries.
We had a very elaborate lunch at the grandeur of VECC's Royal Guest house. We relaxed
A Science Odyssey into quite a while and went over to the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics which is a few kilometres
away from VECC. This sister organisation of VECC also contributed to the CERN's LHC.
the heart of Indian Science We had a warm welcome there as well. The first destination was to the Meghnad Saha
Auditorium. It had artefacts which could have been viewed in detail, but due to lack of time
as SPs have to visit and understand the various laboratories of Meghnad Saha Institute.
The science we know today is comparably miniscule than what it is actually. Scientists Before the pass-over to the laboratories, the director of SINP (Saha Institute of Nuclear
have been tremendously working on scientific machines and statistics, keeping in mind Physics) directed our attention to a special pendulum which changes its angle with time.
their main goal as to find the past and to make the future, where we live a better one, a
more sustainable one for the humanity. And the Sastra Pratibha Educational trip had been The team was once again split into two, Junior and Senior Category. As an SP of the Senior
fundamental in enlightening the young hidden aspirant scientists within us. Category, we went to a biophysics related lab. The mind-blowing scientist at the lab explained
to us his machine, known as spectrometer, and the principles of working in a very simplistic
I am really proud to be an Indian along with being a Sastra Pratibha. It was henceforth, I but well defined manner. He explained us the differences in properties of different proteins,
understood the concealed power of Indian Scientists. SIF Bahrain had featured a unique elements and compounds in their speed, polarity etc. He briefly explained how his machine
opportunity to all the 16 of us to meet and interact with eminent scientists of various can be used to do a detailed study on diseases and statistical probability of acquiring the
branches of science, who work together and to make the flag of India, flown in full glory. disease under the intervention of a bacterial or viral compound. As we had been to VECC,
we linked the working of the machine to a smaller particle accelerator.
The educational journey was a three day trip from 30th of January, evening, to 3rd of
February, morning, to the land of Rabindranath Tagore, the birthplace of nuclear science Specifically, we visited the Saha Observatory, where we saw a remotely powered telescope
and scientists in India, at the very heart of West Bengal, Kolkata. The team was headed by which was used by many students at the institute in their research projects. We saw a
Mr Anilal (Vice President of SIF Bahrain) and we were accompanied by Dr Vinod Manikkara latest machine brought into SINP was a steel cutting machine. Here, water at high pressure
(President of SIF Bahrain) along with 34 members including the 16 proud Sastra Pratibhas. about tons of Pascals are used to cut steel which are thick up to 6”. Before leaving SINP,
We landed in Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Airport on 31st January, early morning. we were taken to the cabin of an eminent professor and scientist, in the field of plasma
physics, Prof Janaki Sita, The scientist was very happy to see the group of small Sastra
SIF Bahrain had featured this year, a detailed explanation in the field of particle accelerator. Pratibhas and was deeply elated to take us to see the Tokamak, which is the only and oldest
On 31st January, on this very remarkable day, we visited the very eminent research institutes Plasma generating machine in India. A new one is being developed in Andhra Pradesh, but
of India, and it possesses the oldest and longest working cyclic particle accelerator, or a we were excited in seeing the Tokamak which was used since past and had already done a
Cyclotron in Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC) lot of experiments. The largest one is made by ITER. As this machine, which is up to a size
of a big living room, requires a lot of energy, smaller experiments are conducted in India
Cyclotron is basically a particle accelerator which accelerates a positively or negatively and other rare places of the world. The main motive of utilizing plasma energy is that it is
charged ion progressively using large magnetic device which is in the shape of the letter a green, eco friendly fuel, it does not produce greenhouse gas, it can produce energy upto
D, and hence called Dee's. These magnets are alternatively powered and this causes the 10000000 K, and else more. What a Tokamak does is the creation of plasma material which
charged particle to travel in a spiral path. This can later used to various researches and has a lot of potential for energy harnesses. The only catastrophe in making this potential
energy derivatives. resources, downlisted just to as stock, is because plasma is a high energy excited material
and highly unstable. The main aim of the plasma-physics is to increase the amount of time
Our team was divided into two groups. One includes the Sastra Pratibha's of classes 5-8, and in retaining the material in the form of plasma for a quite longer time. We were quite amazed
the senior category had classes 9-11, so the teaching and learning exposure can be variably as the scientist said that, the Tokamak in Kolkata has been able to retain the plasma state
adjusted. I am proud to say that, from the senior section, we visited three internal chambers in high magnetic energy for quite a long time in the past, that's a few microseconds. Due
of the superconducting Cyclotron, recently built due to favourable circumstances. The other to investment problems, this plasma energy potential is halted at ITER. Probably, we might
larger, but less efficient Cyclotron was in a working stage. Hence, we couldn't go there as it unveil this energy of the future.
us is the development of biodegradable bio-ceramics, which degrade without leaving traces
after recovering from the fracture.
On 1st of February, we set out to the largest glass and ceramic research centre, CGCRI, After the lunch which we had at the CGCRI's sprawling canteen, we walked over to the Acharya
Centre of Glass and Ceramic Institute of Kolkata. We had an interactive session with the Jagadish Chandra Bose Institute, which is a heritage institute passed on from the time of
director of CGCRI as well as two scientists, who received awards. The warm welcome his wireless radio experiment. Two professors at the Bose Institute explained to us the life
was followed by a well scheduled programme, of which the premier one was the lasers, history of JC Bose and his 50+ inventions which changed how wireless communication we
photonics and fibre optics. We learnt in detail the formation of fibre optics from a bulky know today had changed. The professors there explained to his inspiration in setting up the
glass formation, called the preform. The preform had an outer layer called the cladding, and institute, Swami Vivekananda's and Sister Nivedita's help in inspiring him in spreading the
an inner core. The inner core was made of a special rare earth material of which examples scientific influence over India. We were led through the story of JC Bose and had limitations
include Ytterbium oxide, Germanium oxide which has a lesser refractive index and the in British dominated India. We also saw many of his artefacts, writings and quotes and
outer layer was made of materials of higher refractive index like silicon dioxide to prevent many of his notes from eminent scientists if all times like Darwin's grandson, Rayleigh and
the light rays from diverting from the core and to contain the light rays by maintaining total many more. We then saw the largest auditorium set up in the late 18th Century. The hall
internal reflection. The outer layer was coated with a one or two layered protective coating had artistic designs at the ceiling which resembled those at the Royal Society of London
for additional protection.
Hall. The senior professor explained that he might have got inspired by his meeting at
London. The art was creatively recreated by the Tagore lineage. The hall had been very old,
Later we proceeded on to the ceramic water purification centre. The main problem faced and the government had been planning to convert that place into a heritage site. SIF had
by most Indians today is the scarcity of pure water. The water contaminated by Industrial planned the trip at the right time as later on the senior professor, Mr Rai mentioned that,
waste include large quantities of iron and arsenic which can be really dangerous if consumed they were moving on to a lifeless building soon. We moved over to the institute and entered
in large quantities. The scientists at CGCRI under Specialized Water Technology system the labs. We saw many devices and hygrometer which regulates the humidity. These devices
explained their new invention of purifying the water by absorbing iron and arsenic into their were highly sensitive to water vapour and the readings might change.
porous ceramic material. We moved to the next section, Department of Refractory. Refractory
was a new term for us; although it's applications found its way through. Refractory is One peculiar feature of JC Bose Institute is that it was filled with greenery. They had trees to
a characteristic or the property induced to any material to resist heat to a large extent. shrubs all the way from the entrance to the internal lawn. This intrinsic feature makes Bose
The senior professor at the refractory department explained the use of refractory coated Institute really special for us as well as the scientist working there. While departing from the
material in the iron furnaces where the main machinery is also made of iron. It also finds Institute, the senior professor drew our attention to yet another architectural masterpiece.
its application in furnaces and nuclear thermal plants. Sir J C Bose had designed a sculpture of a woman embedded on to the stone wall
We were very amazed to find that the traditional terracotta used and found in India also in front of a small pond, wherein behind we had flowering perennials. The
had the property of refractory. The process of manufacture is simple but long. The main professor explained that this monument was a sign of respect to
constituents of the manufacturing material are made into small pellets so that it can also Sister Nivedita. During spring, the perennials would shower
be used in construction as well as to provide external strength. They showed us the three the flowers into the pond which continues till today.
different kinds of furnaces which uses refractory material. He also explained the use of We were really amazed at the state of the art
bimetallic thermometer in such furnaces.
planning and mastermind behind this ideology is
truly a remarkable scientists, unrevealed to the
Then we walked through the speciality glass technology division. Apart from the everyday world mankind.
use of glass, we came to know that glass has an important role in Nuclear Reactors as well.
Specially designed RSW (Radioactive Shielding Window) Glass which shields the scientists On the way back, the SIF President, Dr Vinod Sir
from high energy gamma rays with the added on advantage of transparency. Normally, intimated that a group of scientists would be there
Lead is used to prevent the gamma radiation. This RSW glass is produced exclusively for with us in dinner. The group of scientists included
Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. We were really awestruck to know how the hidden glass people from various branches of science like statistics,
technology developed indigenously has made significant progress and still pursuing modern cryptology, biochemistry, nuclear physics etc. We
development in all arenas of life; from Land, Sea to the Outer Space. The temperature in had about ten scientists and two women who are part
space is extreme. For research projects and devices sent to space, special glass is used of Vibha and director of Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan.
which neither expands not contracts. This special glass which really very rare, is known as After our introduction, the Statistician and cryptologic
refractory ceramic-glass. Apart from normal glass, we also saw special varieties of glass that scientist explained statistics as a part of science in simple
absorbs light, filters infrared radiation, etc.
terms which could be easily understandable. Dr Pathaki
C Banerjee who explained to us molecular phylogeny
As we moved on to final part of CGCRI, we moved to the bioceramics & coating division. and biochemistry, along with that he briefly explained
The scientist over there, had a detailed explanation on Bioceramics in medical orthopedics. his work on compilation of Swami Vivekananda and Sister
Small fractures within 5cm are easily repaired by bone cells. Those outside the reach of Nivedhita. Other scientists also explained their parts and
bone cell repair had to be artificially fused together using Bone-like grafts or artefacts. Mr Abga R Babu (Vijnana Bharti Middle East Coordinator)
These implants are normally chromium stainless steel based which may be implanted in the and Mr Sreeprasad M (Vinjana Bharti Kolkata Coordinator).
bone fractures. The catastrophe arises when these metallic matter reacts with blood and the
blood WBCs automatically reject them as foreign antibodies. That's where Indian science’s On the last day, we had a memorable trip to the Science city,
bioceramics play an important role. Compared to steel implants which are heavy, these are the first and largest science based amusement park in the
light and more corrosion resistant. The latest developments which the scientist explained to
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