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The Newspaper of SRMIST
For private circulation only Volume 14 Number 5
Research Day @ SRMIST...
The Chief Guest sharing a moment with the Pro Chancellor (Academics).
The Vice Chancellor (Left) and the Pro Vice Chancellor (Medical, right) are also in the picture. Pg - 3
Lifting the Trophy
The Winning SRM Women’s Volleyball Team. Pg - 3
2 2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5
Anyone up for cyborgs
on the streets?
ISHIKA GHOSH computer directly with a brain. to the implant module wirelessly
This can achieve a symbiosis via an external module. Robots
If there was a way for humanity with artificial intelligence, are being used successfully to
to achieve a stage where there something he believes will be do surgeries on animals.
were no diseases, viruses, human essential to the survival of the
From Iron Man to The Batman
weaknesses, or any form of species.
saga, there have been plenty of
intellectual incompetence, why
Designed to potentially cure heroes who did not receive their
wouldn’t one want to stretch
WeiQi or Go, an ancient game neurological diseases like powers naturally and therefore
their hand and grasp it?
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, portray the great leap human
Tr a n s h u m a n i s m i s t h e he demonstrated a small chip beings may take into improving
Venerable festivities: Games philosophy that vouches for with tiny wires that that could their own condition. Superhero
the use of bio transformative be implanted into the human movies make one more fearful
in an archaic society technologies to transform human
to posthuman- ‘a person or entity
brain to improve interaction with
machines. Recently, Neuralink
of transhumanism, rather than
eliciting positive feelings about
that exists in a state beyond being successfully tested a wireless the movement. Considering
NATALIA RISHMA often imbued with mythic and
human.’ Elon musk is enabling chip implant in the brain of a test safety and how it affects the
ritual religious significance.
humans to achieve this through monkey who could play video brain, once the technology will
Games in the past commonly Games like Gyan Chauper and
Neuralink. It is a brain-computer games with just his mind. The N1 be ready for use. The power
had one purpose, entertainment. The Mansion of Happiness were interface company that makes sensor chip can be controlled by that humans might possess is
While active participation developed to inculcate spiritual brain implants connecting a a smartphone app and connects beyond imagination.
was encouraged and physical and ethical meaning in the lives
limits put to test, the mind of the young, while Shatranj and
had to undergo the rigorous WeiQi (Go) were recognized by
procedure too. Ranging from the military and pollical elite
Mancala to Chess and Senet, as a way to develop strategic
each had cultural and geographic thinking and mental skill.
diversity with a set of rules and
punishments. They became an Human history and games
integral part of culture, brought are inextricably intertwined.
people together and served the Irrefutable evidence resounds
purpose of passing it on to future down through the ages that fun
generations. and games are not frivolous
pursuits per se- instead, they Neuralink architecture and Structure of the N1 chip
Being a common pastime to come naturally as perquisite
both the elite and the royalty, parts of being human. Through
some games became common the understanding of games,
features of court culture and
The Gendering of clothing
we can conceptualize how
were given as gifts. The royalty we began to make intelligent
enjoyed games which were less choices. Simplicity is what is
harsh but regularly spectated. at the core of all games, and
Opportunistic to ease political this is what our entire purpose SHREYA KHERA were considered ‘shameless’ and skirts for men were and still are
tensions, it was used as a tool to of being alive boils down to. ‘not honourable’. For men, any considered too ‘feminine’ and a
make peace & form allies with The debate surrounding ‘pants clothing considered ‘feminine’ symbol of weakness. It’s high
They arguably teach us lessons,
countries and nations are masculine’ and ‘skirts are was evidently degrading and
good and bad, with hind and time to realise that clothes can
Games such as Senet and the foresight of how an outcome feminine’ is more contemporary un-manly. Interestingly, de- be gender-fluid or a medium of
Mesoamerican ball game were will affect us. than we are led to believe. gendering of clothes is, to some
self-expression. Considering
Historically, skirts were the extent, a function of capitalism.
men in skirts or gowns to not
matter-of-fact item for most of When women started working in
humanity’s ancient civilizations, factories, the owners demanded be “masculine” proves the
on both sides of the gender divide. they wear something more general lack of knowledge on
Reporting for Spectrum Clothes in the past have been efficient and apt for work, unlike fundamental history, where
both gender-fluid and elaborate. the gowns and skirts, and pants skirts were considered a symbol
• Contributing reports should be confined to a Tunics were considered more came into the picture. However, of bravery.
efficient for battles, allowing
maximum of 250 words and must be written
swift movement in the field.
by students only. Pants were worn only during
• Accompanying pictures must have captions. times of horse-riding, during
winters, or manual work.
Pictures without caption will not be published
The gendering of clothes
• Request for coverage in Spectrum by its is a function of capitalism.
editorial team must be made well in advance Companies looking for quick
with an accompanying note and the invitation ways to make profits advertised
different items of clothing as
to sridhark@srmist.edu.in
being divided along the lines of
• Coverage of a certain event or receipt of gender. The continued systematic
an article does not guarantee publication. oppression of any self-expression
of women led to the rejection of
-Editor any clothing that brought attention
to their features. Such items non-gender normative clothes
2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5 3
Dr. Paromita Chakraborty receiving an award from
Chief guest Dr. S. M. Yusuf released the CD of abstracts along with other officials of SRMIST SRMIST’s Pro Chancellor (Academics) Dr. P. Sathyanarayanan.
SRMIST Research Day 2021
STAFF WRITER said “SRMIST has been doing “Higher education plays a research university. This day is to Prof K Ramasamy welcomed
great jobs in contributing to very important role in shaping see what we are doing and how to the gathering.
“Interdisciplinary research the nation through research.” the nation. It is time we move improve it further.” He elaborated
is needed for nation-building” Also present on the occasion
He urged students to use high from a teaching institution to a the research contributions and
was Deputy Registrar & Director
* IOPB Director urges students tech instruments, available at research institution. Research track of SRMIST. The chief guest
of SRM Institute of Hotel
of SRM to never compromise the Institute, and create high should be imbibed and observed released the CD of abstracts
by all students not just by and gave away the awards Management Dr. Antony Ashok
on the quality of science quality research.
those perusing Ph.D.” Dr. for - Top 2 % scientists in the Kumar, Dean (Research) Dr.
“India needs many more “The purpose of the research is B. Neppolian, Dean (School
C Muthamizhchelvan, Vice global list published by the
CV Raman,” said Dr. S. M. to discover answers to questions of Management) Dr. V M
Chancellor i/c readout SRMIST’s Stanford University, US; Research
Yusuf, Outstanding Scientist, through the application of Ponniah, Dean (Agriculture)
Founder Chancellor Dr. T. R. publications in nature indexed
Director Institute of Physics - scientific procedures,” he said Dr. M Chinnadurai, Pro VC
Paarivendhar’s message, which journals and high impact journals
Bhubaneswar, Associate Director and added, “Never compromise (Medical) Lt. Col. Dr. A. Ravi
said, “I want this university to (Nature Electronics and The
Physics Group Bhabha Atomic on the quality of science. Have Kumar, Registrar in-charge Dr.
become a full-fledged research Lancet Infectious Diseases);
Research Centre. a deep knowledge in the subject, S. Ponnusamy, Dean (Medical)
institution. This is my dream and Best researchers in terms of high
have an innovative mind and Dr. A. Sundaram, Dean (CET)
Speaking at the annual Research it should come true through all Scopus indexed publications and
give 100% devotion to work” Dr. TV Gopal, Dean (Law) Dr.
Day held at SRM Institute our faculty members.” In his h-index with SRMIST affiliation
of Science and Technology Dr. P. Sathyanarayanan, Pro speech, Dr. C Muthamizhchelvan and International Consultancy C A Gurudath, Dean (Science &
(SRMIST), Kattankulathur, he Chancellor (Academics) said, said, “Our goal is to become a project. Director (Research) i/c, Humanities) Dr. Jyothikumar.
Tips for first-time
dog owners
GAUTHAM P PILLAI hard as they often cry at night
however calming them down
There are reasons why dogs helps to build trust. Food and
are called man’s best friend. No nutrition should always be the
words will ever be enough to topmost priority, especially for
describe the care and affection the young ones. A slight stomach
dogs have for their masters. upset can make a mess. For
Besides, who does not like to see the initial 2-3 months, a puppy SRM women’s Volleyball winning the State level Volleyball tournament, Tamil Nadu
small puppies jumping around? starter soaked in hot water is
Beyond the centre line
However, there is a difference advisable, later one can slowly
between getting a dog and petting shift to homely food like rice
a dog. Though it is a fun-filled and scrambled egg or roti and
experience at the same time, the scrambled egg without salt. NAVEEN PARTH exceptionally and proved to be of 16 points (25-09). With two
course can be grueling as it is
Another tip would be to find a AISHIKI HALDER the title contenders from the wins, they booked their berth in
a huge responsibility thus there
trustable vet and avoid listening beginning of the tournament. the semifinals, played against
are certain points that must be
to unreliable sources such as Sports is an integral part of They had an easy success in the St. Mary’s, A.N. Mangalam. St
kept in mind for all first-time dog
pet shop owners who try to SRM’s curriculum, receiving first game against Champions Mary’s valiant efforts, however,
owners. The first few nights are
market unnecessary products. It equal importance as academics. academy, Madurai by winning were not enough to stop SRM
is a common myth that puppies And this ardent dedication towards the two sets with a margin of from reaching the finals. The final
should not be allowed to play in sports yielded fruitful when SRM’s 6 points in the first set (25-19) showdown was between SRM and
the mud, but contrary to this it is Women’s volleyball team won the and 17 points in the second (25- PKR college, Gobi where the girls
important for their development. state Volleyball championship, 08). Their second game against secured the champions spot to lift
De-worming and vaccination after their win against PKR college Tambaram Sports Academy could the state level Volleyball trophy,
should also be done timely. during the finals held between the have proven to be costly if not for with Ms Gowri Lakshmi securing
Dogs are not our whole life, Lastly, click a lot of pictures 12th and 14th of January 2021 at their comeback in the second set the player of the tournament for
but they make our lives whole. as it will be worth the efforts. Dindugul. The team performed where they won with a margin her heroic performance.
4 2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5
Research Day Celebration 2021 International Workshop on
Numerical and Analytical
at SRM University-AP, Andhra Pradesh Techniques in Engineering
Problems (WNATEP - 2020)
STAFF WRITER
STAFF WRITER and Dr. Bibekananda Bira, and
“Startups and Government
the gathering was welcomed by
bodies must be complementing
On Nov 12-13 2020, an Dr. A. Govindarajan, Professor
one another to steer space
international workshop focussing and HoD Mathematics, who
industry towards excellence”- Sri
on numerical and analytical briefed on the importance of
S Somanath, Director, VSSC
techniques in engineering such events and appreciated
Research Day 2021 ceremony problems was conducted by the interest that the research
at SRM University-AP, Andhra the Department of Mathematics, scholars showed as the number
Pradesh encompasses various College of Engineering and of registered participants had
endeavors aimed at appreciating Technology, SRMIST. The touched 500, from India and
and encouraging scholars to workshop brought in 12 abroad. Following this, Dr. A.
carry out extensive research experts from premier Indian Anuradha introduced the Dept.
works to enrich the society. institutes including IITs, IIScs, of Mathematics at SRM IST,
Applauding the initiative, Dr ISI, NITs, and 3 experts from highlighting the courses that
P Sathyanarayanan, President, international academia to share the department offered, and
SRM AP stated “Research Day their knowledge pertaining the goals and achievements of
is when SRM University-AP to real-world applications in their students and alumni till
commemorate the faculty and these fields, aimed to enrich the date. This was followed by
students for their outstanding participants already working in individual talks by the invited
research contributions. This this field as well as the beginners. professors and experts aiming
university, though just a three- The workshop was conducted to stimulate and encourage
year-old one, has grown leaps online via Zoom platform. Each researchers in these fields. Each
and bounds in research and is day comprised of two sessions speaker was introduced by a
now clearly the front runner separated by a lunch break. senior faculty member chairing
among all the universities in Each talk was followed by an that session. The sessions on
the region.” interactive discussion with the the second day were followed
Prof V S Rao, Vice-Chancellor, participants. On average, more
by the valedictory function in
SRM AP welcomed the Chief than 200 participants were
which Dr. Harekrushna Behera
Guest Sri S Somanath, Director, always present for every talk.
gave a vote of appreciation to
Vikram Sarabhai Space Center The workshop was hosted the experts, participants and
(VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram, by Dr. Harekrushna Behera organizers.
and other revered audience.
Prof V S Rao highlighted, Glimpses of the Workshop
“Research day brings an excellent
opportunity for the scientific
community to showcase their
accomplishments and impactful
research works.”
Advancing the celebration,
informs, “The high cost and low suggests, “Government of
Prof D Narayana Rao, Pro
volume production remains the India should be opening the
Vice-Chancellor, SRM AP took
challenge associated with Space space sector and assist the
the virtual podium to comment
Engineering.” He also stated new participants by sharing
“Science and Technology is the
that there are increasing demand technological expertise. Startups
driving force for the economic
and scope for satellite startups and government bodies must
development of India. We need
and the export potential is on be complementing one another
to encourage young scholars by
the higher side for satellites to steer this industry towards
providing a vibrant and conducive
in India. excellence.”
research environment. Expanding
the frontiers of knowledge by Dr S Somanath proceeded Progressing with the
triggering interest among students to illuminate the audience on celebration, eminent scientific
must be the priority of the the changing horizons of the works and contributions of
institutions. Also, focus should space industry, contributed various faculty, research scholars,
be on translational research with by the emerging technologies and undergraduate students
societal applications through such as integrating satellites, were rewarded. As part of the
collaborative research to make drones, and terrestrial imagery. research day programme, the
our nation a global leader.” In addition, he addressed the students and faculty were urged
disruptive technologies that to submit abstracts of their
During his motivating speech
led to reusable rockets, space research. Among 176 submissions
on “The Indian Space Enterprise
technology-driven drones, etc., from students and 40 from the
Achievements & New Directions”,
enhancing the market substantially faculty community of SRM AP,
Dr S Somanath interpreted
for the satellite production and 20 were awarded with gold
the complexities of Space
reducing the market for the medals while 6 were presented
Engineering by describing details
launching vehicles. with silver medals. Further, a
pertaining to space infrastructure,
and technology elements in Consequently, Dr S Somanath special issue of abstracts was
rocket production involving the accentuated that the government unveiled during the Research
development of space vehicles bodies such as ISRO, IN-SPAC, Day celebration that comprised
capable of operating for years and NSIL should remodel its of all the submitted abstracts
unattended in the space. He further direction of operation. He for public consumption.
2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5 5
Should you trust what you see?
SHASHANK KUMAR
“2020, a year when most of
you, thanks to toilet roll shortages,
have finally understood how
it feels to have a predicament
on the throne”, a quote said by
the Queen Elizabeth of Britain
just before she started dancing
to a popular Tik-Tok song on
live TV, except that it was not
the real queen. Last year, actor
Game of Thrones: one of the most balanced pieces of work in the Debra Stephenson was hired
history of fiction by the Channel 4 to create a
deep fake video of the Queen
Plot, Character and addressing the citizens. The day
it aired, the British regulators
Writing Styles Standing
received hundreds of confusing
calls and complaints.
the test of time
The video was created primarily
for two reasons. To entertain
the viewers of the channel and
secondly, and most importantly,
PRIYANKA SRINIVAS with. Hence, their dependency to educate the masses of the
on a protagonist, antagonist, dangers and the repercussions of
A writer approaches fiction anti-hero or similar is inevitable, misusing Artificial Intelligence.
with mainly two different writing as these pieces work to connect
styles: plot-driven and character- the reader with the plot. Hence, Deep fakes are hardly a new
driven. While it is widely agreed characters are inherently more concept. Usually, a performer
that a balance between both styles important, right? While that is made to sound and look
generates the best works of art, seems true at a glance, people like someone popular, for
most authors have an inherent tend to remember an overlying example, Jordan Peele as
leaning to a particular style. Barrack Obama. The website
plot more than the character,
It shows itself in their works. ‘thispersondoesnotexist.com’ uses
while recollecting a book in
These two styles of writing machine learning to constantly
hindsight. To demonstrate, people A picture of the deep fake Queen (First picture), parts of the VFX
produce two distinct types of churn out pictures of people who removed (second picture) and the actor Debra Stephenson on
are able to summarize 1984,
readers. People like character- do not even exist! “Whether a green screen set (third picture).
a plot-driven narrative better
driven stories because these works what we see and hear is always
than Picture of Dorian Gray, a twice before believing what we which can be anywhere close to
of art solely focus on producing what it seems” was the closing
character-driven masterpiece. see on the internet. If a news reality. But the current technology
complex and realistically flawed message of the video.
People recognize the complexity channel’s satirical video with has evolved enough to plant a
human characters. There is a of the character Dorian Gray, but Despite its satirical nature, the disclaimers can cause so much seed of doubt, and there is one
certain amount of projection, real message of the gravitas of chaos, what can a well-made thing more powerful than all
remember none of the contents
where the readers see the the video should escape none. deep fake do? Yes, we are years the armies in the world, an idea
on the book. This is because
fictional characters’ in their The video implores us to think away from creating a deep fake whose time has come.
well-written characters are meant
real environments, maybe even
in themselves. On the other to be complex and difficult to
hand, plot-driven stories have
a grip on their target audience
remember, much like the people
in our contemporary world. In Involving university youth in
addition, a well-paced story has
harvesting rainwater
because of highly interesting
and unusual series of events the correct twists and turns to
explained in an intriguing manner. brand the narrative in the mind of
Both plot-driven and character- the reader permanently. Hence, MAYANK JHA Initiative. The axiom “Catch at 11:00 AM on the 2nd of
driven stories need a good set of plots emerge stronger than them young” expresses the February 2021. The host of the
characters to follow and work characters, in the test of time. PRIYANK KAPOOR
desire to train, cater, support event was Mr. Souvik Goswami
and guide children early in life and the keynote speaker was
The highly anticipated
to develop love for education Mr. G Ashok Kumar. They
“Involving University Youth
These two styles of writing in harvesting rainwater (Ministry
in order to become lifelong were accompanied with other
learners. renowned speakers such as Prof.
of Jal Shakti, Govt. of India)”
produce two distinct types event was conducted virtually This is a paramount concern Ujjawal Choudhary, Dr. Sayalee,
on ZOOM. It was organized by to school librarians to meet the Mr. Suneel Kumar Arora, Mr.
of readers. People like the APAC News Network as a intrinsic fact in nation building. JP Singh and many others.
part of “Catch Them Young” The two hour event started Involving University Youth in
character-driven stories harvesting rainwater was an open
event and it was broadcasted
because these works of art live on Facebook with over 300
active attendees. A significantly
solely focus on producing important event organised by the
APAC News Network succeeded
complex and realistically in enlightening the masses with
all the guests sharing their
awed human characters remarkable knowledge in the
field of Rainwater Harvesting.
6 2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5
Brain Candy: The New Guilty Pleasure?
SHRAVYA SHARAN
The entertainment industry
experienced a massive turnover
as the new-normal introduced
OTT platforms with unlimited
content as a replacement for
theatre and cable television
experience. With this turnover,
a bizarre trend existing in the
shadows gained momentum and
has become quite popular now.
Every viewer has at least once
subject themselves to a show
with the very purpose of mocking What getting ready to consume brain candy looks like.
or deriding it. This pattern of
hate-watching has introduced
a new term — brain candy.
Google defines brain candy as
a popular entertainment that is
not intellectually stimulating.
In simpler terms, such shows
are like junk food for the brain,
and at present, we are eagerly
consuming it.
Brain candy is often subject
to poor scripts, terrible acting
or absurd concepts that make
it unrealistic. They are usually
the perpetrator of regressive
stereotypes and mindsets
presented to belay the issues’
seriousness. It is set up for gags
Trinity College Library (Dublin, Ireland)
while feigning earnestness,
from an emotional distance as it source of escapism, fun and
further encouraging the viewers’
Five Best Libraries
reaffirms their superiority over conversation fodder for many.
derision.
possessing great taste. Most Cashing on this rising demand,
Some viewers consider ‘hate- viewers enter such shows with creators have started churning
in the World
watching’ a guilty pleasure, zero expectations in terms of out low budget shows that invite
claiming that although such shows quality. They are just looking viewers to ‘hate-watch’ it and
leave a terrible aftertaste, it is for mindless content that is unbeknownst to the viewer;
like witnessing a train wreck in enjoyable, even if it is not the they gradually find themselves
motion — they just cannot look most accurate or inventive. getting addicted to a show that’s
away. Others view such shows Brain candy has become a so bad; it’s almost good. JELSIA ALEX of the Republic of Venice. It is
named after St. Mark, the patron
Reading is the best escape saint of the city, and holds the
Brainstorm: Unravelling from reality and Libraries are
a paradise for people who love
greatest number of collections
of classical texts in the world
reading. Here are a few best closely followed by George
the Mysteries of the Brain libraries that a reader must visit
at least once.
Peabody Library (Baltimore,
USA). This is also known as
Baltimore’s Cathedral of Books
RAMAY RAJ SINGH of participants from all over and how it also controls the The First on the list is Trinity
and is considered one of the
the globe were present. signals that get into the body. College Library (Dublin, Ireland),
most beautiful libraries in the
Brainstorme is a yearlong Further, he spoke about Brain University of Dublin. It was
The event began with a world. It was found in 1878 and
series of curated lectures on Electrical Oscillation Signature established in 1592 by Queen
presidential address and designed by Baltimore architect
current topics in cognitive Profiling (BEOSP) which is an Elizabeth I and is the largest
inauguration by Dr. LT. Col. Edmund G. Lind in collaboration
and clinical neuropsychology EEG technique using which a library in Ireland. The library
A. Ravikumar who spoke with the first Peabody provost,
organized by the Department of suspect’s participation in a crime is costs 10 euros to enter for visitors.
about neuropsychology and its Nathaniel H. Morison.
Clinical Psychology, SRMIST. A detected by eliciting electro It was built between 1712 and
significance. The first speaker of
session was conducted on 29th physiological impulses. It is a 1732 and has at least one copy Lastly, The New Stuttgart City
the day was Dr. Allan Baddley,
January 2021 where a number non-invasive, scientific technique of every book ever published Library (Stuttgart, Germany) is
renowned for the three-component
with a degree of sensitivity and in the UK and Ireland. Then a building that combines age
model of working memory,
a neuropsychological method comes The National Library of and avant-garde. It is organized
... how the who spoke about working
of interrogation which is also China (Beijing, China). It the by the department of the city’s
memory and neuropsychology
brain controls and emphasized on the concept
referred to as brain fingerprinting. largest library in Asia. It has a cultural office and comprises the
collection of over 37 million central library, 17 city district
the human body of the phonological loop. The The event ended with a bunch
books and holds the largest libraries, and two bookmobiles.
next session was conducted by of questions by the curious
and how it also Dr. C. R. Mukundan who spoke participants, all of which the
collections of Chinese literature It received the national award
and historical documents. as Library of the Year, in 2013.
controls the about the brain representing speakers answered in a lot of
the physical world and the detail. It was the enthusiastic Third, comes The National After all, it was well said by
signals that get mind representing the virtual participation shown by the Library of St Mark (Venice, Walter Savage Landor, “Nothing
into the body world. He explained how the audience that made the event Italy) which is a public library is pleasanter than exploring a
brain controls the human body such a grand success. founded in 1468 as the library library.”
2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5 7
Faculty Cover
ANANT DEV KAPOOR application to address Covid-19
pandemic with Technological
TARUN NEGI innovations and holistic approach
in August 2020. Dr Kayalvizhi
Failure is not an alternative to was shortlisted for her proposal
success, it’s indeed an integral “A Technological Empowered
part of success. With constant Healthcare Delivery in the Era
hard work and courage, the of Covid-19” and was granted
fortune to success is earned. INR 45 lakhs as grant for the
Reaching the next milestone project. Dr. Kayalvizhi Jayavel
in life requires hours of hard (Co PI for this project) will
work. Dr. Kayalvizhi Jayavel, serve as an International Expert
Assistant Professor from the of support Institution and as
Department of Information an Expert Advisor. As part of
Technology achieved yet another her responsibilities, she will
milestone in her life and obtained help in designing prototypes
an International Collaborative and will contribute in project Multiverse imagined
Project with University of Rwanda development by taking seminars
Multiverse and travel
for “Special Collaborative and reviewing papers for possible
Research Grant to Address publication. The project being an
COVID-19 Pandemic”, which International collaborative project,
is for an Covid-19 mitigation
project in Africa.
SRM has been provided with an
opportunity to be a supporting between parallel universes
The National Council for institute for this project. The
Science and Technology total duration of the project is
(NCST) Rwanda rolled out an 1 year with real deployment GAYATRI RAMYA expanding forever. And it’s to travel there, the possibility
in selected places at Rwanda possible that at one point it of coming back will be close
KOTHURI
in collaboration SRM Institute will repeat itself. The strings to zero. But going with the
of Technology, India. string theory says that a string theory of infinite expansion
The concept of the multiverse, can vibrate differently in only in which all universes expand
Dr. Kayalvizhi Jayavel has which is the possibility of there
a certain amount of ways, so at the same rate, there is a fair
got her papers published in being multiple universes is
the pattern is bound to repeat. chance that there are copies of
reputed journals with worldwide adorned by a lot of science-
Some ideologies also arise this universe among different
collaborations with countries like fiction movies. But is meeting a
from the big bang theory. It is configurations of all the string
Japan, Oman, Rwanda etc. She carbon copy of one in a duplicate
believed that there might have particles which are 10^10^122
has been working worklets from universe possible in real life? The
been multiple big bangs, some to be exact, according to parallel
Samsung, Bangalore. She has also answer is still being researched
before the current universe and universe theory.
served as a visiting Professor, by a lot of scientists and a lot
research supervisor at African some after. Bubble theory even This universe is 3.8 billion
of them have come up with
Centre of Excellence of Internet points out the possibility of years old and is still young.
different theories about the
of Things (ACEIoT), University some universes expanding at a With the current research and
multiverse.
of Rwanda (2019-2020) and different rate which would lead technology, the possibility of
also a visiting Researcher to The shape of space-time is to different laws of physics and travelling is very low. But the
NEC (Japan) for a collaborative not completely known which mathematics. This dampens the answer to the main question of
research project in the domain leads to many people believing possibility of multiverse travel as whether there carbon copies?
Dr.Kayalvizhi Jayavel of WSN (2011). that the universe will keep even if one somehow manages Yes, it might be possible.
Hikikomori and the Throes of Isolation Involving University Youth
EASHA NAIR million people in the country who
are identified as hikikomori. In
periods of time. This condition
is often accompanied by mental
in Harvesting Rainwater
Having spent over six months the modern Japanese landscape, disorders such as social anxiety, MAYANK JHA on the 2nd of February 2021.
alone with no one human contact it has become exceedingly depression, autism spectrum The host of the event was Mr.
is what is considered the baseline convenient for people who keep PRIYANK KAPOOR
disorder, etc. While many may Souvik Goswami and the keynote
to define the social outcasts of their social interaction to the start off as becoming hikikomori speaker was Mr. G Ashok Kumar.
The highly anticipated “Involving
Japan, the hikikomori. The word minimum to get by without any as a way to cope with or avoid University Youth in harvesting They were accompanied with
is used to define both the act of inconveniences. The internet acts uncomfortable situations, over rainwater (Ministry of Jal Shakti, other renowned speakers such
seclusion as well as those who as their window to the world time it may develop into various Govt. of India)” event was conducted as Prof. Ujjawal Choudhary, Dr.
fit the former definition. It was and helps them lead antisocial
psychological disorders. During virtually on ZOOM. It was organized Sayalee, Mr. Suneel Kumar Arora,
first coined in 1998, and it is now existences. This withdrawal
the COVID-19 pandemic, by the APAC News Network as Mr. JP Singh and many others.
estimated that there are over a from the social aspects of life
separating oneself from social a part of “Catch Them Young” Involving University Youth in
has been further normalized by
interactions has become the norm Initiative. The axiom “Catch harvesting rainwater was an open
the increasing number of such
cases, with both their loved ones and such cases would often go them young” expresses the desire event and it was broadcasted
and the society trivializing the under the radar. With changing to train, cater, support and guide live on Facebook with over 300
problems of those who suffer times and the restricting shackles children early in life to develop active attendees. A significantly
from this plight. Usually, the of the internet age, the issue love for education in order to important event organised by the
onset of hikikomori is preceded of social recluse finds itself become lifelong learners. This APAC News Network succeeded
by failures in life, amplified by penetrating the lives of millions, is a paramount concern to school in enlightening the masses with all
the rigid society of the country, leaving them with trauma that librarians to meet the intrinsic the guests sharing their remarkable
causing the person to feel ashamed plagues them long after their fact in nation building. The two knowledge in the field of Rainwater
Hikikomori, a social recluse. and retreat into a shell for long isolation is over. hour event started at 11:00 AM Harvesting.
8 2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5
Activities at SRM University Delhi - NCR, SONEPAT
Webinar on readings. Reading the Preamble of the
Constitution of India by the Faculty SRM – Siemens Centre
members and students was central to
“Interaction of this event. Students initiated discussion
of Excellence (SSCoE)
on the various modes through which
Radiation with constitution is discussed in the context
of governance and citizenship.
SRM University, Delhi – NCR, Sonepat, Haryana signed a Memorandum of
Agreement with Siemens Industry Software (India) Private Limited for establishment
Matter” of “SRM – Siemens Centre of Excellence (SSCoE)” on September 15th, 2020.
A webinar on “Interaction of Radiation
Dr. Vineet The SSCoE will have a total of 5 labs viz. Product Digitalization – Design Lab,
Process Digitalization – Production Planning Lab, Bio Tech Specialized Lab,
with Matter” was organized by the
Department of Chemistry on 13th
receives IE(I) Simulation and Analysis Lab and CNC Controller Lab.
Professional
Official inaugural launch of the SSCoE was conducted on September 23rd,
February, 2021. The chief speaker for
2020 online while maintaining the Covid-19 social distance norms. Honorable
the occasion was Dr. Madhab Chandra
Chancellor, SRM University, Shri Ravi Pachamoothoo, Mr. Akhilesh Sahi,
Rath, Scientific Officer, Bhabha Atomic
Research Centre and Associate Professor, Engineers Director (Sales) - Academic: Siemens Industrial Software Pvt. Ltd and Mr.
Ajay Deshkar, CEO of 3D Engineering Automation were present amongst the
Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai.
Certification prominent dignitaries.
Dr. Vineet Bajaj, Professor and Head,
Department of Civil Engineering, SRM
University, Delhi – NCR, Sonepat “Freedom of Occupation, Trade and Business
Haryana recently got elevated as a
certified “Professional Engineer” by
vis-à-vis Lockdown in the country” – Debate
The Institution of Engineers (India) i.e. Competition
IE(I). As per the current record, there
are approximately 150 Professional Faculty of Law, SRM University conducted a Debate Competition for the
Engineers in Civil Engineers in India students on 29th September 2020. The topic given to student was “Freedom of
and Dr. Vineet Bajaj is amongst one Occupation, Trade and Business vis-à-vis Lockdown in the country”. Students who
of them. participated in the competition shared their unique arguments and perspectives
related to the theme.
Quiz and
poster making
competition
SRM University Delhi-NCR is going
to organize a quiz and poster making
competition on 25th February, 2021 for
the 12th Standard students.
Webinar – “Emerging
Webinar on Trends and Technologies”
Human Rights Day SRM University Delhi-NCR in association wioth IBM organized a webinar on
20th Fenruary, 2021 where the key speakers, studenys and researchers discussed
the emerging trends, and possibilities in the technological sector.
On 10th December, 2020, the Faculty
of Law organized a webinar to celebrate
Constitution Human Rights Day. Eminent legal
experts like Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ravindra
Day – 26th Maithani, Sitting Judge, Uttarakhand
High Court, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Rajive
November, 2020 Bhalla, Former Judge, Punjab and
Haryana, Professor (Dr.) Nishtha Jaswal,
Vice Chancellor, Himachal Pradesh,
Department of Law, SRM University National Law University, Shimla, Prof
Delhi-NCR organized a virtual programme (Dr.) Anand Pawar, Vice Chancellor,
on the celebration of Constitution Day Rajiv Gandhi National University of
on 26th November 2020. Professor (Dr.) Law, Punjab and Prof (Dr.) Paramjit S.
Ashok Kantroo, Dean, Department of Law Jaswal, Vice Chancellor, SRM University,
spoke on the legacy of the constitutional Delhi-NCR were the speakers for the
debates through his rigorous historical occasion.
2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5 9
The inauguration of the 6th International Conference on Nanoscience and
Nanotechnology (ICONN 2021) at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
(SRMIST), Kattankulathur was held virtually between feb 1 and 3, 2021.
The Biennial International Conference was organised by the Department
of Physics and Nanotechnology, SRMIST in association with Shizuoka
University-Japan, National Chiao Tung University (NCTU)-Taiwan, GNS
Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS) Science-New Zealand, University
of Rome Tor Vergata-Italy, RMIT University-Australia, Tata Institute of
Fundamental Research (TIFR)-India, Asian Consortium on Computational
Materials Science (ACCMS), Indian Physics Association (IPA), Materials
Research Society of India (MRSI), Indian Carbon Society (ICS)-India and
Springer Nature.
The event was aimed at providing a platform for researchers and scientists
to assess recent trends and developments in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
for promising applications. Scientific sessions includes Low-dimensional
and 2D materials, Surfaces, interfaces and thin films, Nanocomposites and
An Interactive and catalysts, Multifunctional nanomaterials, to mention a few.
There was be over 70 sessions with eminent speakers from renowned
Informative International
international institutions such as University of California, Berkeley-CA,
Tokyo Institute of Technology-Japan, The Australian National University,
Canberra-Australia, University of Cambridge-UK, University of Maryland-
Conference
USA, Institut für Experimental physik, Berlin-Germany and also from
premier Institutes of India such as IISc Bangalore, Bhabha Atomic Research
Centre (BARC) Mumbai, Anna University-Chennai, Indira Gandhi Centre
for Atomic Research (IGCAR)-Kalpakkam.
REVATHI AISHWARYA talent through innovative research work About 2400 participants are were a part of this mega event. The welcome
and at the same time encourages them address was delivered by Dr. D. John Thiruvadigal, Convener, ICONN
PRAKHAR ALOK CHAUDHARY 2021, SRMIST, followed by the presidential address delivered by Vice
to indulge more in this field. This year’s
topic of discussion was low-Dimensional Chancellor of SRMIST, Dr. Sandeep Sancheti. His address was focused
The Department of Physics and on emerging research and development (R&D) in the field of Nanoscience
Nanotechnology of SRMIST conducted and 2D materials, surfaces and thin
films, nanocomposites and catalysts, and Nanotechnology. Pro Vice Chancellor (Engineering and Technology)
the 6th International Conference on of SRMIST Dr. C Muthamizhchelvan released the proceedings of the
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICONN) and multifunctional nanomaterials.
ICONN 2021 conference.
from the 1st to 3rd February 2021. The inaugural program began with
Considering the present circumstances the opening statement of Pro V-C C. The inaugural address was delivered by Prof. Ashutosh Sharma,
related to the COVID-19 virus, the Muthamizhchelvan followed by scientific Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST) Govt. of India,
Committee of ICONN and the associate sessions on various upcoming topics by CV Seshadri Chair Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT
institutions conducted the conference all the keynote speakers. The highlight of Kanpur. In his address, he spoke on the initiatives and schemes framed
via virtual mode. the event was Prof. Ramamoorthy Ramesh by DST, to develop R&D infrastructure in various institutions across the
country through funding research projects.
Institutions from all over the world of the University of California receiving
including Shizuoka University (Japan), the SRM-ICONN Award of excellence Prof. Ramamoorthy Ramesh, University of California, Berkeley,
GNS Science (New Zealand) University in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. “I CA, announced SRM-ICONN Award of excellence in Nanoscience and
of Rome Tor Vergata (Italy), and had been looking forward to the ICONN Nanotechnology to Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary, Department of
NCTU(Taiwan) participated in the event. 2021. It brings us the unique opportunity Science and Technology (DST) Govt. of India, CV Seshadri Chair Professor,
to interact with the delegates from Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Kanpur. Vote of thanks was
Dr. Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary of the different countries and to know about proposed by Dr. S. Ponnusamy, Controller of Examinations, SRMIST.
Department of Science and Technology
their work and contribution in the field. SRMIST also honored eminent scientists with SRM-ICONN Innovation
(Govt. of India), was the chief guest of
Despite the event being online, I found Award, SRM-ICONN Outstanding Woman Researcher Award, with SRM-
the event.
it to be interactive and informative,” ICONN Young Researcher Award. Around 300 students across India have
ICONN provides a great platform for expressed Simon John when asked registered for this program.
budding researchers to showcase their about the experience of ICONN 2021.
72nd Republic Day Celebration
PRAKHAR BHARADWAJ and the Institute towards the the faculty members. “It is our
nation. Hence the Republic Day humble and collective duty to
LAWRENCE
Celebration-2021was conducted follow the path of selflessness
SWAMINATHAN following all the safety measures for nation-building. We should
and precautions. The event do everything in our power to
Saluting the ‘Tiranga’, make our country a better and
took place opposite to Tech
everyone stood tall with safer place, making our nation
Park and was attended by the
pride as SRMIST celebrated and our elders proud must be
teachers, local students, NCC
India’s 72nd Republic Day, by one’s motto” said Dr. Sandeep
cadets, and NSS volunteers.
organizing its annual Republic Sancehti while addressing the
Day Celebration thus, imparting It began with the flag hoisting students and concluding the
values of patriotism and nobility by The Vice-Chancellor of event by zealously promoting
among the students. Despite the SRMIST, Dr. Sandeep Sancheti, the national and cultural unity
Covid-19 Pandemic, it was not an energizing march past by and at the same time instilling
enough to bring down the zeal the NCC cadets which was the sense of pride and patriotism
and devotedness of the students followed by a speech from in the heart of every attendee. Flag Hoisting by The Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Sandeep Sancheti
10 2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5
How Blockchain Technology
has evolutionised the World
ASMITA SOOD Along with revolutionizing the
monetary world, this technology
Blockchain Technology is a holds the answer to one of the
typical database which stores biggest challenges faced by
data in blocks and then chains humanity, i.e., vaccinating
them together, in that respective the world population against
order. A decentralized blockchain Covid-19. Blockchain has the
is immutable, meaning that the potential to revolutionize the
data entered is irreversible. The way in which vaccines reach
transactions are permanently people all around the globe.
recorded and visible to everyone. This distribution will be done
via the smallest channels of
One of the major ways in
the supply chain and thus, a
which Blockchain Technology
single integrated window is
has revolutionized the monetary
required to keep a track of
world is through the concept of
distribution. It will also help
Cryptocurrency, for example,
the stakeholders manage the
Bitcoin.
inventory and optimize the orders. Eyes on the stars, feet on the ground! Dr. Sridhar Vembu in front of his office
The world market is This will ensure that inventory in Mathalamparai. (Source: Forbes India)
continuously getting bigger visibility is maintained, and the
and more complex by the day. process is secure and free from
In this scenario, industries
are constantly looking for
fraudulent activities. It helps
keep a tab on the movement of A Technocrat with Real Roots!
a solution that makes these vaccines through a distribution
transactions faster, easier, more system, thus making the process
B. KAVYA SHRUTHI come from even the remotest with Zoho due to the positive
transparent as well as secure. of vaccine distribution more
talents. Through this, he aspires impacts it’s had on their lives.
Blockchain does exactly that efficient. Therefore, Blockchain
What would you do in a village to encourage youth to work With strong preferences for
along with eliminating the need Technology has revolutionized
with misty hills, paddy-adorned from and for their hometowns, skills and knowledge over
for intermediaries, reducing the modern world and has the
fields, and peacock-cry imbued which shall reduce migration grades, Sridhar’s Zoho Schools
costs, delays and increasing potential to improve each sector
breeze? Programming is the to cities and promote diverse of Learning offers courses in
accuracy. and industry effectively.
last thing that’ll come to your economic growth. Sridhar is technology, design and business,
mind, but Dr. Sridhar Vembu, the a lateral thinker. He believes and has produced 884 graduates
CEO of Zoho Corporations, an that nationalism is the desire to so far.
Indian-American firm providing build a nation that is a producer
Software as a Service (SaaS) predominantly. He reflects this “We are a state-of-the-art
platform to more than 60+million in his work by building SaaS tech company with a very
users worldwide, is a man of platforms based truly out of old-fashioned approach to
unconventional actions. He India. Sridhar emphasizes on company building.”, says
currently works from his ‘rural the importance of challenging Sridhar. Today’s youth look
office’ in the Mathalamparai the status quo and building up to his visionary, yet grounded
village, Tenkasi. It was here resilience at work. He nurtures leadership. Acknowledging his
that Zoho Desk (a customer a fluid work environment in contributions in the trade and
service software) was built Zoho where titles don’t limit industry sector, Dr. Sridhar
from scratch demonstrating expression. Every employee Vembu has been awarded the
A blockchain network that world class software can shares a sense of belonging revered Padma Shri this year.
Should Euthanasia Be Legalised?
AASTHA AGGARWAL support is withdrawn (passive aren’t able to pay bills or fulfill
euthanasia). The debate on the other grudges.
Euthanasia or mercy killing legalisation of euthanasia is
Euthanasia is legal in many
is the act of painlessly and a tough one, with both sides
countries across the world.
intentionally ending a life to end firmly strong in their views.
Passive euthanasia earned legal
pain and suffering. Euthanasia
Euthanasia gives an individual status in India back in 2011, in
may sound cruel and against the
the right to introspect their response to a plea for euthanasia
natural law, but it can also be
essence of life and live and for Aruna Shanbaug, a nurse
considered kindness as it eases
end it in a dignified manner at King Edward’s Memorial
the person of their helpless state
without pressure. It may be an Hospital, Mumbai, who had been Euthanasia: an end to suffering
despite coming with a hefty
act of kindness, but one cannot brutally raped and strangled in
emotional cost.
neglect the infinite problems the 1973. The attack paralysed her
The process is most favorable practice will lead to. Legalising and left her in a vegetative state
when the patient has an euthanasia will give extra power till her death in 2015. Though Legalising euthanasia
incurable disease, or they are to the medical community. the plea for disconnecting life
in an irreversible coma. In There will be unknown and support was rejected, several will give extra power to
this practice, the patient is uncontrollable consequences. guidelines were issued that
either given a lethal injection
(active euthanasia), or their life
Misuse will happen. People
will pull the plug on those who
legalized passive euthanasia in
India in the landmark judgement.
the medical community2020 | Spectrum | Volume 14 Number 5 11
Nuclear Energy: Catalyst for Development Can a Mutant Super-enzyme
or Preparation for Ragnarök? Solve Our Plastic Menace?
RAMAY RAJ SINGH science in general, and now energy. It is also the safest to KRITIKA MALHOTRA
nuclear energy seems to be the work with when compared to
“Nuclear energy is one hell appropriate solution to all our other energy production means There are now more
of a way to boil water” – Albert demands. But do we really need to date. Ronal Reagan once microplastic particles in the
Einstein to take the next leap forward, or said, “All the waste in a year ocean than there are stars in
are we accelerating the second’s from a nuclear power plant our galaxy, and about 8 metric
Throughout history, we humans
hand of the doomsday clock? can be stored under a desk”. tons of plastic finds its way into
have always tried to ameliorate PETase and MHETase
Nuclear energy does have some Fossil fuel-based energy is the ocean annually; this is the
our lives with evolving knowledge ‘holding hands’
responsible for dumping hundreds world we live in today.
of our surroundings and nature. wins under its belt, as a study
of giga-tonnes of waste in our
The prospect of unlimited conducted by NASA in 2013 A team of researchers led by the need for producing more
atmosphere, which nuclear
free energy for all has always found out that between 1976 Kohei Oda and Kenji Miyamoto plastic from petroleum!
energy can help tackle efficiently.
fascinated the greatest minds and 2009, 1.8 million lives in Japan, 2016 first identified the
Unfortunately, nuclear energy’s When researchers used their
in the field of physics and were saved because of nuclear bacterium Ideonella sakaiensis,
lethality is beyond everything mutant PETase and MHETase
else. If handled inappropriately, capable of breaking down
together, they found it broke
it could wreak havoc on the and consuming the plastic
down plastic twice as fast as
regional biodiversity. polyethylene terephthalate
PETase alone. But the real gains
(PET) as a sole carbon and
Even if stored/ handled came when they synthesized a
energy source. They can eat
correctly, it takes thousands link between the two enzymes,
through low-quality plastic
of years to decay enough to be in a way that almost looks like
in about 6 weeks, while PET
declared safe, and we simply do they’re holding hands. With
takes longer to break down. The
not have the ability to capsule their powers literally combined,
bacterium’s cells adhere to the
out the waste for thousands they sliced through PET six
PET surface and secrete PETase
of years, away from human times faster than PETase alone.
which degrades the PET into a
intervention. Various nuclear The bacteria don’t pull off this
heterodimer. To further break
based disasters have shown us same trick themselves as the
down PET, a second enzyme
that working with nuclear energy combined super enzyme is just
called MHETase is secreted.
is like a balancing game; the too large for their little molecular
MHETase takes the heterodimer
moment the weight distribution machinery to produce.
PETase creates and further
is disturbed, the whole system cuts it up into its constituents, Scientists have been working
tumbles down. terephthalic acid (TPA) and to eradicate the plastic menace
The question remains whether ethylene glycol. These are the for decades now; from infinitely
nuclear energy is worth the time, building blocks of PET, and recyclable plastic to turning
money and human resources, returning it to this state could plastic bags into fuel – solutions
Presence of human population near nuclear or is it time to pull the plug on mean the same plastic can be are on the way. But will it be too
reactors of a nuclear power plant the project before it is too late? recycled endlessly, eliminating late by the time they’re here?
Mysteries of Cambodian Temples
ADITHYA R great scientific knowledge and
technological advancement
Cambodia is home to which had baffled mainstream
numerous ancient temples historians and archaeologists.
that symbolise the pride More mysteries loom in Baksei
of the country’s glorious Chamkrong Pyramid which is
past. However, the lack almost identical to the Tikal
of archaeological research Temple in Guatemala located
has reduced them to mere 10,000 miles away and hence
tourist attractions. Angkor raises the doubt of whether
Wat is the world’s largest both temples were built by the
religious monument which same builder or that the two
was estimated to be built civilizations were in contact
in 37 years and at least 10 with each other during ancient
million tonnes of rocks were times. Apart from this, The The similarities between the Tikal Temple of Guatemala (Left) and Baksei Chamkrong of Cambodia
used to construct the entire Khmer Empire’s transition from (Right) are evidence of possible contact between two distant civilizations.
temple complex almost Hinduism to Buddhism also
impossible to construct remains in a shroud of mystery. of the 4 headed Brahma on the
within the given time period The quality of work done by towers of the Bayon Temple
while maintaining it’s perfect the immediate successors was have survived the destruction Angkor Wat is the world’s
alignment in the 4 cardinal shoddy which proves that the caused by both man and nature. largest religious monument
directions. The Brahma new alterations were not made The temples highlight the
Temple named ‘Ta Prohm’ by the same craftsmen who superiority of the science behind which was estimated to be
depicts carvings of human designed the carvings of Angkor ancient architecture combined built in 37 years and at least 10
interaction with prehistoric Wat and other magnificent with the dedication of ancient
animals and is proof that ancient temples of Cambodia. builders and craftsmen to achieve million tonnes of rocks
ancient Cambodians possessed Surprisingly, the macro carvings engineering marvels.You can also read
