TN to introduce technology demonstration projects in UG, PG

The projects, undertaken by Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology, has four technology demonstration components such as cold storage, poly house, mushroom cultivation and energy from waste.

A senior official from the Higher Education Department told DT Next that the council was implementing many science and technology schemes related to research and development extension and outreach programmes for the students.

“The project titled ‘Rural-Urban Connectivity Centres for Technology Dissemination, Research and Livelihood Sustainability’ will be implemented for three years starting from this academic year,” the official added. Stating the Rs 5 crore fund required for the project was sponsored by Department of Science and Technology, the official said that the technology demonstration and popularising units would be established and used by students and researchers in the institutions so that end users could be given exposure and training.

“In addition, the Department of Science and Technology has also sanctioned a photovoltaic - wind hybrid power system to harness green energy at a cost of Rs 1.94 crore for two years from 2019-20 onwards to demonstrate the potential at various places in Tamil Nadu,” the official said. He added that the State government has also allocated its share amount, Rs 2.92 crore, for the two demonstration projects for the first year.

“The government has also decided to extend financial support for the final year UG and PG students to carry out research in sectors such as agricultural science, biological sciences, environmental sciences, engineering and technology, medical sciences, physical sciences, social science, and veterinary sciences,” the official added. The financial support, added the official, would not only motivate students for carrying out research projects but also get global recognition through their innovations.