IIT Delhi launches 'Chidambaram Memorial Lecture Series' on National Science Day

NEW DELHI: The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) launched the 'Chidambaram Memorial Lecture Series' to honor the legacy of late R Chidambaram on National Science Day. Chidambaram served in roles, including principal scientific adviser to the GOI, secretary of the department of atomic energy, chairperson of the atomic energy commission, and chairperson of the board of governors at IIT Delhi. The National Science Day is observed on February 28.

Rangan Banerjee, director of IIT Delhi, commenced the event by introducing the 'Chidambaram Memorial Lecture Series' and sharing his contribution to IIT Delhi . The lecture series was officially launched by KN Vyas, former chairperson of the Atomic Energy Commission, who reflected on Chidambaram’s leadership in India’s nuclear tests.

IIT Delhi: Lecture on science and technology

Abhay Karandikar, secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), delivered a lecture titled 'Transforming S&T landscape of the country towards Viksit Bharat.'

He discussed India’s progress in research and development, the growth of startups, and government initiatives aimed at technological advancements. He emphasized the role of emerging fields such as Quantum Technology, Cyber-Physical Systems, Green Technologies, and Artificial Intelligence in shaping India's future.

Challenges in scientific research

Karandikar pointed out systemic hurdles in research funding and administration. He advocated for easing regulatory barriers to enable smoother scientific progress. He called for increased private sector involvement in research to transform academic finding. ''So our path to achieving the global scientific and technology leadership clearly depends upon removing the obstacles, both in terms of structural and institutional barriers, and also in terms of ensuring the adequate level of funding, and finally spurring the private sector R and D for catalyzing the translational research, for taking the research that happens in the academy and the university into cutting edge technology development and that alone will position India as a global leader in cutting edge technology,” said Karandikar.

The event was attended by Chidambaram’s family, including his wife and daughter, who expressed gratitude for the initiative. As a token of appreciation, IIT Delhi presented a memento to Karandikar for his insightful lecture.

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IIT Delhi: Initiatives for PhD scholars and competitions

The event also highlighted IIT Delhi ’s new initiatives for research scholars. CT Dhanya discussed initiatives for PhD students, while Narayanan D Kurur introduced the Research Synergy Forum, aimed at fostering key academic skills. As part of the celebrations, IIT Delhi organized two competitions—Prastuti and Srijan—for PhD students to present their research creatively. The winners were announced and felicitated by Karandikar for their innovative presentations.