SRINAGAR: A faculty member from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has secured a prestigious research grant of ₹73,92,450 from the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, for a project aimed at strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s infrastructure through advanced material technology.

The three-year project, titled “Strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s Infrastructure: Corrosion-Resistant and High Strength 6082 T6 Aluminium Alloy for Bridges and High Structures”, will be led by Dr. Deepak Kumar Naik, Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department, as the Principal Investigator (PI), along with Dr. Sandeep Samantaray, Assistant Professor, Civil Engineering Department, as the Co-PI.

The research will focus on improving the mechanical strength and corrosion resistance of the 6082 T6 aluminium alloy, making it ideal for demanding infrastructure projects such as bridges, towers, and high-rise structures in the Union Territory. Given J&K’s challenging climate and terrain, the project aims to deliver durable, safe, and cost-effective construction materials.

Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, congratulated Dr. Naik and Dr. Samantaray, stating that the project reflects the institute’s commitment to addressing real-world engineering challenges and contributing to regional development. “This project is a testament to our faculty’s capability to secure competitive national grants and address critical engineering challenges. It will have a direct impact on infrastructure quality in the region,” he said.

Institute’s Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman also praised the achievement, noting that such initiatives elevate the research stature of the institute and demonstrate how academic expertise can be channelled to solve pressing developmental issues.  “This grant is a significant milestone that will strengthen the institute’s research profile and reinforce its role in national infrastructure initiatives, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Naik expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Mines for the support, noting that the funding will enable cutting-edge research to enhance the properties of the 6082 T6 aluminum alloy.

Dr. Samantaray highlighted that the outcomes would directly benefit infrastructure projects such as bridges, towers, and high-rise structures, particularly in J&K’s demanding climatic conditions.

He further stated that his research group is currently working on multiple projects focused entirely on development of Jammu & Kashmir, with the combined value of these initiatives amounting to ₹1.06 crore.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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