International Academic Excellence Awards

  For years, scientists believed that the Mars’ red hue was solely due to iron minerals rusting in dry conditions. However, new research indicates a wetter history for Mars. This research combines spacecraft data from the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA with advanced laboratory experiments. The findings suggest that ferrihydrite, an iron oxide requiring water to form, is key to understanding Mars’ distinctive colour. Historical Context of Mars’ Colour Mars has long been known as the Red Planet. The previous consensus attributed its reddish appearance to hematite, which forms under dry conditions. This assumption was based on limited spacecraft data that did not detect water in Martian iron oxides. The new research challenges this view, suggesting that Mars had a more complex and wetter geological history. Key Findings of the Study The study reveals that ferrihydrite is a more accurate explanation for Mars’ red dust. Unlike hematite, ferrihydrite can form rapidly in cool, wet ...

  Recent discussions around black plastic have been ignited by a study that raised alarms about its potential toxicity. Initially, the research claimed that black plastic kitchen utensils contained harmful flame retardants. However, a correction issued later revealed that the risks were overstated. What Is Black Plastic? Black plastic is primarily made from recycled electronic waste. This includes materials from old computers, televisions, and appliances. Many of these electronics contain toxic substances like bromine, antimony, lead, cadmium, and mercury. These materials are used to enhance fire resistance. However, they pose health risks when present in high concentrations. The Initial Study’s Findings The controversial study published in the journal Chemosphere examined 203 black plastic items sold in the United States. This included kitchen utensils and takeaway containers. Researchers identified a flame retardant called decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) in these products. BDE...

  Coastal mangroves serve as vital bio-shields against natural disasters. Recent research marks their effectiveness in mitigating the impacts of tsunamis and flooding along India’s coastline. The study, conducted by a team from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, utilised advanced simulations to evaluate how emergent vegetation, particularly mangroves, acts as a protective barrier. This research puts stress on the importance of integrating natural solutions into coastal defence strategies. Role of Mangroves in Coastal Protection Mangroves are unique trees with complex root systems. They thrive in saline coastal environments. Their sturdy structures help dissipate wave energy during storms and tsunamis. Without mangroves, coastal areas would face greater destruction during such events. The presence of mangroves reduces the impact of debris on buildings and infrastructure. Research Methodology The research team employed a smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) model. This comp...

  A collaborative initiative involving IIIT-Delhi, CHRI-PATH, Tata 1mg, and the Indian Council of Medical Research has led to the development of AMRSense . This AI-powered tool analyses routine hospital data to provide timely vital information about antibiotic resistance patterns. The findings were published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia, showcasing a six-year study across 21 tertiary care centres in India. About AMRSense Tool AMRSense utilises existing hospital data to predict trends in antibiotic resistance. It identifies relationships between pairs of antibiotics and tracks resistance changes over time. This approach is cost-effective compared to traditional genomic methods. It allows healthcare providers to anticipate resistance patterns and make informed treatment decisions. AMROrbit Scorecard The AMROrbit Scorecard is another innovation from this research. It provides a visual representation of resistance trends for hospitals. By comparing local data with globa...

  Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) presents health challenges worldwide, particularly in low and middle-income countries. In India, the burden of AML is acute, with late-stage diagnoses and limited access to advanced treatment options. Despite global advancements in cancer care, disparities remain evident in patient outcomes, especially in rural areas. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving survival rates. About Acute Myeloid Leukaemia AML is the most prevalent type of leukaemia in adults. It is characterised by the rapid proliferation of abnormal blood cells, known as blasts. This disease affects blood and bone marrow, leading to severe complications if untreated. The median age of diagnosis in India is lower than in high-income countries, with patients often presenting at age 40. Unfortunately, late-stage presentations are common, resulting in poorer prognoses. Barriers to Effective AML Care Several barriers hinder the effective management of AML in India. These includ...

  The Government of Kerala has launched Nayanamritham 2.0 . This initiative is the world’s first government-led programme for AI-assisted chronic eye disease screening. It follows the success of Nayanamritham 1.0. The programme aims to enhance early detection and improve accessibility to quality eye care throughout the state. Overview of Nayanamritham 1.0 Nayanamritham 1.0 introduced diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening at Family Health Centers. This phase involved expert interpretation by ophthalmologists at secondary and tertiary care centres. The initial programme laid the groundwork for expanding eye care services in Kerala. Introduction of Nayanamritham 2.0 Nayanamritham 2.0 builds on the earlier model. It empowers optometrists with AI-enabled fundus cameras from Remidio. These cameras classify cases as referable or non-referable instantly. This ensures faster diagnoses and timely referrals for patients. Expanded Scope of Screening The new phase includes screening for glaucoma ...

  Microsoft has recently introduced Majorana 1, a quantum chip that promises enhanced reliability and scalability of qubits. This development marks advancement in quantum computing technology. Microsoft aims to create a fully functional quantum computer by 2027-2029. The Majorana 1 chip employs a novel type of particle known as Majorana, fabricated using topological conductors. These materials exist in a unique topological state, differing from conventional states of matter. What are Qubits? Qubits are the fundamental units of quantum computing . Unlike classical bits, which can be either 0 or 1, qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This property allows quantum computers to process vast amounts of information more efficiently than classical computers. Majorana 1 is designed to leverage these advantages, potentially allowing for a million qubits. The Role of Topological Conductors Topological conductors, or topoconductors, are crucial to the functionality of Majorana ...

  The National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Survey of Urban Habitations ( NAKSHA ) is program launched by the Government of India. It aims to create and update land records in urban and semi-urban areas. The initiative was inaugurated by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Madhya Pradesh. It covers 152 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across 26 states and three Union Territories. The programme is fully funded by the central government, with an estimated cost of ₹194 crore. Objectives of NAKSHA The primary objective of NAKSHA is to ensure accurate documentation of land ownership. It aims to empower citizens by improving ease of living and enhancing urban planning. The initiative also seeks to reduce land-related disputes. By establishing reliable land records, it promotes transparency and efficiency in property administration. Technological Framework The NAKSHA programme employs advanced technology for land surveying. Drones will be used to conduct aerial surveys, which will provide...

  The mpox clade Ib outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has raised public health concerns since its emergence in September 2023. Recent genomic and epidemiological studies indicate that this outbreak is primarily linked to sexual activity among professional sex workers in densely populated urban areas. As of January 2025, over 9,500 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported, with a case fatality rate of 3.4%. Mpox Variants There are two main types (clades) of mpox: Clade 1 and Clade 2. Each clade has subtypes that differ in transmission and severity. Clade 2b (Global Outbreak, 2022-Present): Caused a major outbreak in 2022, spreading globally. Over 100,000 cases reported worldwide. Low fatality rate in Europe (4 deaths per 10,000 cases). Primarily affected gay & bisexual men and other men who have sex with men in the UK. Clade 1a (Endemic in the DRC): Found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for years. Spread through contact with animals or th...

  Recent studies have revealed alarming vital information about the effects of pesticides on non-target organisms. A comprehensive analysis published in * Nature Communications * indicates that over 800 species, including microbes, fungi, plants, insects, fish, birds, and mammals, are adversely affected by commonly used pesticides. This research marks the pervasive and often overlooked consequences of pesticides beyond their intended targets. About Pesticides Pesticides, which include insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides, are chemicals used to manage pests in agriculture. While they are designed to eliminate specific pests, their impact extends to a wide range of non-target organisms. This unintended harm can disrupt ecological balance and biodiversity. Scope of the Study Researchers from China and Europe conducted a thorough analysis of 20,212 pesticide effect estimates from 1,705 studies. These studies encompassed various ecosystems, including both terrestrial and aquatic env...

  Recent advancements in neutrino research have emerged from the KM3NeT (Cubic Kilometre Neutrino Telescope) Collaboration. This international team is constructing observatories deep beneath the Mediterranean Sea. The aim is to detect and study neutrinos, subatomic particles that can provide vital information about the universe’s most cataclysmic events. A recent discovery involved a neutrino with an unprecedented energy level, originating possibly from beyond the Milky Way galaxy. What are Neutrinos? Neutrinos are subatomic particles that are electrically neutral and have a very small mass. They interact very weakly with matter, allowing them to travel through vast distances without obstruction. This unique property makes them invaluable for studying cosmic phenomena. The KM3NeT Project The KM3NeT project consists of two major detector facilities. ARCA, located 3.4 km deep near Sicily, focuses on high-energy neutrinos. ORCA, at 2.4 km deep near Provence, France, targets low-ener...

  The Green Credit Programme (GCP) and the Ecomark Scheme are two initiatives launched by the Government of India in October 2023. These programmes aim to promote environmental sustainability and encourage eco-friendly practices among individuals, communities, and businesses. The GCP incentivises voluntary environmental actions, while the Ecomark Scheme focuses on promoting eco-friendly products. Current Status of GCP: 17 states have allocated 57,700 hectares of degraded forest land for tree plantations. Madhya Pradesh leads with 15,200 hectares, followed by:Andhra Pradesh (11,361 ha) Gujarat (6,760 ha) Jharkhand (5,648 ha) Tamil Nadu (4,708 ha) Bihar (4,108 ha) Green Credit Programme The GCP is a market-based mechanism designed to reward voluntary environmental actions. It allows individuals and private entities to undertake tree plantation and other eco-restoration activities on degraded land. Participants can earn Green Credits, which can be traded or used to meet compliance re...

  Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) poses threat to cattle health and the dairy industry in India. The recent approval of Biolumpivaxin, a vaccine developed by Biovet, marks a very important moment in combating this disease. This vaccine is notable for being the world’s first Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals (DIVA) marker vaccine. It aims to enhance disease surveillance and improve the management of infected and vaccinated cattle. About Lumpy Skin Disease Lumpy Skin Disease is a viral infection affecting cattle and buffaloes. It is characterised by skin nodules, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease leads to decreased milk production and mobility issues in affected animals. Transmission primarily occurs through vector bites from insects such as mosquitoes and ticks. This disease has resulted in mortality and economic losses in the dairy sector. Biolumpivaxin – Key Features Biolumpivaxin is a groundbreaking vaccine that allows for the differentiation between vaccinated...

  Recent astronomical research has revealed Quipu, the largest known structure in the universe. Named after an Incan recording system, Quipu contains an astonishing mass of 200 quadrillion solar masses. Its immense size stretches over 400 megaparsecs, equivalent to more than 1.3 billion light-years. About Quipu is essential for comprehending cosmic evolution and refining cosmological models. What Are Superstructures? Superstructures are colossal formations that contain groups of galaxy clusters and superclusters. They influence the universe’s structure and evolution. Quipu, alongside four other identified superstructures, holds 45% of galaxy clusters, 30% of galaxies, and 25% of the universe’s matter, occupying a volume fraction of 13%. Their mass challenges existing cosmological models. Discovery Methodology Researchers identified Quipu using X-ray galaxy clusters in the Cosmic Large-Scale Structure in X-rays (CLASSIX) Cluster Survey. X-ray emissions from hot intracluster gas serv...

  Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is air pollutant. It primarily arises from the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Road traffic is the main contributor to outdoor NO2 levels. This pollutant poses serious health risks and has detrimental effects on agriculture. Recent studies have revealed the extent of its impact on crop yields in India, particularly for wheat and rice. Formation and Sources of Nitrogen Dioxide Nitrogen dioxide forms when fossil fuels are burned at high temperatures. It is one of several nitrogen oxides (NOx) contributing to air pollution. Major sources include vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and coal-fired power plants. The combustion process releases NO2 into the atmosphere, where it can persist and affect air quality. Health Impacts of Nitrogen Dioxide Exposure to nitrogen dioxide can lead to various respiratory issues. It causes inflammation of the airways, worsens cough and wheezing, and reduces lung function. Vulnerable populations...