• Director, Registrar hails  faculty for securing prestigious grants

SRINAGAR: In a major boost to research and innovation at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, two faculty members have secured prestigious research grants from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India, amounting to more than ₹1.11 crore.

Dr. Manoj Kumar, Assistant Professor (Grade I) in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has been awarded the Inclusivity Research Grant (IRG) for his project “Solar-powered Atmospheric Water Harvesting System Integrated with Desiccant Wheel for Cool and Dry Climate.”  The project, sanctioned at a total cost of ₹43.68 lakh for three years, aims to develop a solar-powered system capable of extracting potable water from ambient air in regions where conventional technologies fail.

Expressing gratitude, Dr. Kumar said this support from ANRF and the Government of India is an excellent opportunity to work on inclusive and practical solutions to pressing environmental issues. The goal is to create technology that serves communities most in need,” he said. Meanwhile, Dr. Ikhlaq Hussain, Assistant Professor (Grade I) in the Department of Electrical Engineering, has bagged the Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant (PM ECRG) for his project “Seamless Transition between Grid-Forming and Grid-Following Modes in a Grid-Tied Solar Photovoltaic System.”

The project has received ₹68 lakh in funding over three years and seeks to develop advanced control strategies to enhance the stability and flexibility of renewable energy systems. On the recognition, Dr. Ikhlaq said that he is thankful to ANRF and the Department of Science and Technology for recognizing the potential of this research.

“The project aims to contribute meaningfully to India’s renewable energy roadmap by improving the operational flexibility of solar power systems,” he added. Director NIT Srinagar Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, congratulated both faculty members and stated that these recognitions reflect the growing research excellence of NIT Srinagar.

“The projects by Dr. Manoj Kumar and Dr. Ikhlaq Hussain not only address critical challenges in water security and renewable energy. It also aligns with the national priorities of sustainability and inclusivity,” he said. Institute’s Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman also lauded the accomplishments, and said that “Securing such competitive grants is a matter of pride for the entire institute. These projects highlight the dedication of our faculty and reaffirm NIT Srinagar’s commitment to producing impactful research with societal relevance,” he added.

 

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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