academic innovation

‘Innovation Needs Unity’: Jitendra Singh Calls for Enhanced Centre-State Collaboration in Science, Technology, and Innovation

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In a strong push for cohesive national progress in science and technology, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Speaking at a high-level policy forum on Friday, the Minister underscored the need for a unified approach to harness India’s full scientific potential.

Dr. Singh highlighted that innovation does not exist in silos and that synergized efforts across all levels of government are essential to translate scientific breakthroughs into impactful outcomes for society. “Innovation needs unity,” he stated, urging policymakers, researchers, and administrators from both central and state governments to bridge gaps and align their STI goals.

He further noted that while India has made significant strides in space research, biotechnology, and digital technology, the decentralization of innovation ecosystems must be accompanied by better coordination. “States have diverse strengths and challenges. When matched with national-level resources and strategic guidance, we can accelerate progress and ensure inclusive development,” Dr. Singh remarked.

The Minister also acknowledged the pivotal role of state governments in nurturing grassroots innovations and promoting regional research institutions. He encouraged the formulation of state-specific STI policies that align with the broader national framework laid out in the upcoming National STI Policy.

In addition, Dr. Singh announced plans to establish a national-level coordination platform to streamline communication and project execution between the Centre and states. The platform will facilitate knowledge sharing, funding access, and capacity building across state science departments and innovation hubs.

Experts at the forum welcomed the initiative, noting that better integration could bolster India’s position as a global innovation leader. Representatives from state governments, academic institutions, and industry shared best practices and discussed collaborative models that have shown promise in addressing local challenges through technology.

Dr. Singh concluded his address by reiterating that India’s growth story in the 21st century will be powered by science-led innovation, but only if it is rooted in cooperative federalism. Only then can we unlock the true potential of Indian science for the benefit of every citizen.”

The forum marked a significant step toward realizing a more interconnected and inclusive innovation ecosystem in India, aiming to bridge policy, research, and implementation gaps through strategic Centre-state collaboration.

SPSEC Relaunches IPR Course, to Roll Out New Entrepreneurship Program

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The Sardar Patel Startup and Entrepreneurship Council (SPSEC), functioning under the aegis of the Startup Incubation Center at Sardar Patel University (SPU), has announced the relaunch of its Certificate Course in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Alongside this initiative, the council is also gearing up to introduce a new certificate program focused on entrepreneurship fundamentals.

The 40-hour IPR course, which was previously offered by SPSEC, received an enthusiastic response from students, innovators, and early-stage startup founders. According to university officials, the course enabled participants to grasp the significance of safeguarding their intellectual creations and led many to successfully register their ideas and explore avenues for commercialization.

“The success of the previous edition demonstrated a clear need for structured IPR education among budding entrepreneurs and academic researchers,” a university spokesperson said. “This course serves as a gateway to understanding how intellectual assets can be protected and leveraged in today’s knowledge-driven economy.”

The renewed edition of the IPR course aims to reach a wider demographic. It is open not only to university students and faculty but also to freelancers, homemakers, researchers, small business owners, and startup founders. The curriculum is designed to offer a practical understanding of both Indian and international intellectual property laws, including areas such as patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.

“The goal is to empower participants with the knowledge required to protect their innovations — an essential component for anyone looking to build a sustainable business or contribute to research and development,” the spokesperson added.

In addition to the IPR course, SPSEC is set to roll out a new program on the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. This initiative aims to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with critical skills such as idea validation, market research, business model development, and fundraising strategies.

Both courses are a part of SPSEC’s broader mission to foster an entrepreneurial culture within the university ecosystem and beyond. With the increasing relevance of intellectual property and startup development in India’s economic growth, SPSEC’s educational offerings are timely and impactful.

Enrollment details and course schedules are expected to be announced shortly on the SPU and SPSEC official websites and social media channels.

Chandigarh Students Secure Patent for ‘GestureX’ – Revolutionary Smart Glasses that Translate Speech into Sign Language

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In a breakthrough moment for accessible technology in India, a team of students from Chandigarh has been awarded a design patent for their innovative invention – GestureX, a pair of smart glasses that can convert spoken language into sign language in real-time. This pioneering project aims to bridge communication gaps for the hearing-impaired, enhancing inclusivity in education, workplaces, and daily life.

Breaking Communication Barriers with Technology
GestureX represents a significant leap in assistive wearable technology. The device is expected to transform how individuals with hearing disabilities interact with the world around them, particularly in environments where sign language interpreters are unavailable.

The patent, granted under Class 16-06 (relating to communication equipment), marks formal recognition of the students’ innovation, positioning GestureX as a potential game-changer in inclusive communication tools.

How GestureX Works
The functionality of GestureX is underpinned by a combination of hardware and software components that work seamlessly together:

Built-in Microphones: The glasses are fitted with directional microphones that capture ambient speech in real-time.

Speech Recognition Engine: Advanced software processes spoken words and converts them into text-based commands.

Sign Language Renderer: A miniature display system integrated into the glasses projects animated sign language gestures that correspond to the recognized speech.

Efficient Power Management: Designed with lightweight battery systems, GestureX ensures portability and extended battery life for regular use.

The glasses have been optimized to recognize multiple accents and background noise, ensuring accuracy in varied environments like classrooms, conferences, or public transport.

Designed by Students, Backed by Innovation
The team behind GestureX comprises students from diverse technical backgrounds who came together with a shared vision to make technology more inclusive. Motivated by personal experiences and community challenges, the team sought to develop a tool that could empower the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities with greater independence and confidence.

According to the team spokesperson, “Our goal was to build something meaningful that could help real people in real situations. GestureX is not just a gadget—it’s a step toward equal access and inclusive communication.”

Broader Implications and Future Development
GestureX’s creators are in discussions with academic institutions and healthcare providers to initiate pilot testing of the device. Early trials will help refine the technology, particularly for use in multilingual settings where regional sign language variants are common.

Looking ahead, the team plans to integrate artificial intelligence to allow the glasses to adapt to individual speech patterns, improve gesture accuracy, and potentially support reverse translation—from sign language to spoken words—to facilitate two-way communication.

They are also exploring partnerships for manufacturing and scaling the product, with the aim of keeping it affordable for individuals and organizations that serve the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.

A Leap Forward in Assistive Tech
As India continues to promote inclusive innovation through programs like Startup India and the Atal Innovation Mission, projects like GestureX highlight the role of youth-led innovation in solving socially relevant problems. The device stands as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and the potential for accessible design to foster greater equity in communication.

If successfully commercialized, GestureX could join the ranks of transformative assistive devices, not only within India but globally, providing a much-needed communication bridge in an increasingly interconnected world.

University of Hyderabad Researchers Secure Patents for Pioneering Innovations in Materials Science

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The University of Hyderabad (UoH), one of India’s premier research institutions, continues to solidify its reputation in scientific innovation, with two newly granted patents in the field of materials science and microwave technology.

The patents, awarded to faculty members from the School of Physics and the Advanced Centre of Research in High Energy Materials (ACRHEM), underscore UoH’s growing impact in high-performance materials research with wide-ranging industrial applications.

Innovation in 3D Ceramic Resonators
The first patent, titled “Dielectric Resonators with Complex 3D Geometries Using Gel Casting Techniques,” is credited to Professors K.C. James Raju and V. Seshubai, along with research scholars T. Anil and Swarup Raju. This novel method facilitates the production of high-temperature ceramic dielectric resonators molded into intricate three-dimensional structures.

Traditionally, creating 3D resonators from ceramic materials poses significant challenges due to their brittle nature and high processing temperatures. The patented gel casting approach overcomes these limitations, enabling the fabrication of compact and high-performance resonators suitable for next-generation microwave and millimeter-wave communication systems.

“This technique opens new pathways for designing miniaturized antennas and frequency filters, particularly in 5G and satellite communication devices,” explained Prof. Raju.

Breakthrough in Low-Temperature Crystallization
The second patent focuses on the laser-based crystallization of ferroelectric thin films, a breakthrough that significantly lowers the thermal requirements for these critical materials. Spearheaded again by Prof. K.C. James Raju and his team, the technique successfully reduces the crystallization temperature from 700°C to 300°C by utilizing controlled laser irradiation.

This innovation has significant implications for the electronics industry, particularly in the integration of ferroelectric materials into semiconductor devices, which typically cannot endure high processing temperatures. Lower thermal thresholds enable the application of these films in tunable microwave components, sensors, and energy-efficient electronic devices.

“This development bridges the gap between high-performance ferroelectric materials and practical device manufacturing,” noted Prof. Raju.

UoH’s Growing Patent Portfolio
With these two patents, the University of Hyderabad continues to expand its footprint in applied scientific research and industrial collaboration. The institution has increasingly focused on promoting innovation that addresses real-world challenges in communication, electronics, and advanced materials.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. B.J. Rao praised the research teams for their work, stating, “These achievements are a testament to the University’s commitment to fostering a research environment that supports both theoretical advancement and practical application.”

Looking Ahead
As global industries seek cost-effective and scalable technologies in electronics and telecommunications, the breakthroughs from UoH researchers could play a pivotal role in shaping future solutions. The university also aims to collaborate with industries and startups to bring these patented technologies from the lab to the market.

While the university has yet to announce any patent specifically related to alpha alumina platelets, these recent innovations indicate that UoH remains a leader in cutting-edge materials science research with broad commercial potential.

AICTE’s KAPILA Initiative Spurs 39% Surge in Patent Filings Across Indian Universities Over Five Years

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In a promising development for India’s innovation landscape, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)’s KAPILA initiative has catalyzed a 39% increase in patent filings from higher education institutions over the past five years. Launched in 2020, the KAPILA (Kalam Program for IP Literacy and Awareness) scheme aims to foster a culture of intellectual property (IP) awareness and innovation among students, researchers, and faculty in technical institutions across the country.

The program, named in honor of former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, has made significant strides in transforming academic research into patentable technologies. According to AICTE officials, the rise in patent filings is a testament to the growing awareness and engagement in IP rights, encouraged by KAPILA’s structured training, workshops, and financial support for filing patents.

Building an Innovation Ecosystem

Before the implementation of KAPILA, many researchers and academic institutions faced challenges in navigating the complex processes involved in IP filings. The initiative addressed this gap by offering financial support for patent application fees and organizing extensive IP literacy campaigns across engineering and science colleges.

“KAPILA has democratized access to IP knowledge. Today, students and faculty are not only more aware of their rights but are also more motivated to innovate with real-world applicability,” said an AICTE spokesperson. “This 39% rise reflects a fundamental shift in how institutions perceive research and intellectual property.”

In addition to supporting individual filings, KAPILA has encouraged group projects and interdisciplinary collaborations, leading to stronger, more commercially viable patents. Several universities have reported a surge in technology transfer agreements, startup incubations, and research commercialization, thanks to heightened IP consciousness.

Opportunities for Streamlining

Despite the success, stakeholders suggest there is room for improvement in making the system more accessible and efficient. Simplifying the reimbursement process for patent filing expenses and introducing features like bulk data uploads in universally accepted formats could significantly enhance the user experience.

“While the initiative has been a game-changer, administrative challenges still deter many potential applicants,” said Dr. Meera Shah, IP coordinator at a leading university. “The ability to submit multiple entries through a common platform and formats like Excel or CSV would save time and reduce the risk of errors.”

Further, there is a call for the integration of AI-based tools to assist with prior art searches, patent drafting, and classification—features that would not only reduce the workload on applicants but also improve the quality of patent submissions.

Regional Reach and Future Goals

One of KAPILA’s major achievements has been its outreach to Tier-II and Tier-III cities, where innovation potential often goes untapped due to lack of exposure and resources. Through webinars, campus campaigns, and the involvement of Innovation Councils, KAPILA has made IP literacy part of the mainstream academic discourse.

Looking ahead, AICTE plans to enhance the platform by partnering with IP professionals and industry mentors to support patent commercialization, a crucial step toward transforming academic innovation into market-ready solutions.

As India aspires to become a global knowledge economy, initiatives like KAPILA are crucial to nurturing homegrown inventors and safeguarding their intellectual contributions. With further improvements in user-friendliness and support systems, the initiative could pave the way for a more robust, inclusive, and innovation-driven academic ecosystem.

Panjab University Researchers Develop Eco-Friendly Nanomicelle Platform; File Indian and International Patent Applications

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In a significant stride toward sustainable pharmaceutical innovation, researchers from Panjab University have developed a pioneering green nanomicelle platform that promises to revolutionize drug delivery systems. The invention, which is both solvent-free and environmentally friendly, has led the university to file patent applications in India and internationally, highlighting the platform’s global potential and scientific merit.

The innovation is the result of dedicated research led by Professor Indu Pal Kaur from the University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, along with her PhD scholars Bakr Ahmed and Simrandeep Kaur. Together, the team has designed a scalable nanomicelle-based system that addresses critical challenges in the pharmaceutical industry, including eco-sustainability, biocompatibility, and cost-effectiveness.

Nanomicelles are tiny, spherical structures formed by the self-assembly of amphiphilic molecules, widely used for enhancing the solubility and targeted delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs. However, traditional methods of creating these nanocarriers often rely on toxic organic solvents and energy-intensive processes, raising concerns about environmental impact and safety.

What sets this new platform apart is its green synthesis approach — completely free from harmful solvents, making it safer for both patients and the environment. The process is not only non-toxic but also easily reproducible on a large scale, offering significant potential for industrial adoption.

“The development of this green nanomicelle platform stems from our commitment to merging scientific excellence with environmental responsibility,” said Prof. Indu Pal Kaur. “Our system is highly adaptable, stable, and can encapsulate a wide range of drug molecules, especially those that are poorly soluble in water, improving their bioavailability and therapeutic efficiency.”

Preliminary studies have demonstrated the nanomicelles’ stability, high encapsulation efficiency, and sustained drug release capabilities. These features make the platform suitable for various medical applications, particularly in oncology, infectious diseases, and chronic illness management, where precision and prolonged drug action are critical.

Recognizing the global relevance of the technology, Panjab University has moved swiftly to protect the intellectual property by filing for both Indian and Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) international patents. This strategic move ensures the platform’s commercial potential can be leveraged not only in India but across global markets.

“The green nanomicelle platform reflects the university’s vision of fostering innovation that aligns with sustainable development goals,” said a spokesperson from Panjab University’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Centre. “It’s a proud moment that exemplifies how cutting-edge research can contribute to both healthcare advancement and ecological balance.”

The university is now exploring partnerships with pharmaceutical companies for technology transfer, aiming to bring this innovation from the lab to the marketplace. The research team is also working on further pre-clinical validation and is hopeful about future collaborations for clinical translation.

As the global pharmaceutical sector increasingly shifts focus toward green technologies, Panjab University’s contribution through this solvent-free nanocarrier platform is both timely and transformative. It sets a new benchmark in combining scientific ingenuity with sustainable practices, reinforcing India’s role as a leader in eco-conscious health innovation.

Maharashtra Professors Develop Low-Cost, Eco-Friendly Water Purifier; Secure Indian Patent

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In a remarkable breakthrough aimed at addressing the pressing issue of clean drinking water in underserved regions, a group of professors from Maharashtra has developed an innovative, low-cost, and eco-friendly water purifier. The invention, which combines simplicity with sustainability, has now been awarded a patent by the Indian government, marking a significant milestone in grassroots innovation and public health advancement.

The team, comprising researchers from a reputed government college in Maharashtra, designed the water purifier with the specific intent of making clean drinking water accessible to rural and tribal populations. The purifier operates without electricity and is made using locally available, biodegradable materials, making it both cost-effective and environmentally responsible.

According to the lead researcher, the purifier employs a multi-layer filtration technique using natural substances such as sand, activated charcoal derived from agricultural waste, and specially treated clay. This combination effectively removes physical impurities, pathogens, and certain chemical contaminants, thereby providing water that meets safety standards for human consumption.

What sets this invention apart is its alignment with public health ethics and community service. The professors undertook extensive fieldwork across tribal settlements and drought-prone villages in Maharashtra to understand the real-world challenges these communities face. “Our aim was to create a solution that is practical, affordable, and sustainable for people who are often overlooked by commercial technology,” said one of the researchers.

The purifier is expected to make a substantial impact in areas where waterborne diseases are rampant due to the lack of basic purification infrastructure. With its patent secured, the team now plans to collaborate with non-governmental organizations, self-help groups, and local governments to facilitate mass production and distribution.

Health experts have lauded the innovation for its potential to reduce the incidence of diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and dysentery—ailments that disproportionately affect rural populations. “This is an excellent example of how academic knowledge can be translated into real-world impact,” said Dr. Neha Jadhav, a public health specialist based in Pune.

The Indian patent not only protects the intellectual property rights of the inventors but also opens up avenues for further research and potential commercialization. Plans are underway to train local communities in assembling and maintaining the purifiers themselves, further empowering them through education and skill-building.

In a time when water scarcity and pollution are growing global concerns, this eco-friendly water purifier serves as a beacon of hope. It exemplifies how indigenous innovation, driven by social responsibility and ethical commitment, can lead to transformative change—especially for those living at the margins of society.

As the team prepares for the next phase of implementation, their work stands as a testament to the power of academia, community engagement, and sustainable innovation coming together to solve real-world problems.

Innovative Food-Truck Design Patented by MDU’s Student Entrepreneurs and Faculty

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In a significant achievement for innovation and entrepreneurship in academia, a group of student-entrepreneurs and faculty members from Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), Rohtak, have been granted a patent for their novel food-truck design. The intellectual property, which blends utility with cutting-edge design features, is the brainchild of Prof. Ashish Dahiya and Sahil Saran, along with contributions from other student innovators.

According to an official statement released by the university administration today, the patented food-truck design represents a leap forward in mobile food service solutions. The design emphasizes space optimization, enhanced hygiene standards, energy efficiency, and modular functionality—key considerations for food entrepreneurs operating in urban and semi-urban environments.

“This is a proud moment for MDU. The achievement reflects the university’s focus on fostering innovation, applied research, and entrepreneurship among its students and faculty,” said a university spokesperson. “The patented design is a result of months of collaborative effort, practical experimentation, and ideation led by Prof. Dahiya and his team.”

The food truck integrates a smart layout that allows for multiple cooking stations, built-in waste management solutions, solar-powered electrical systems, and adjustable service counters. It has been engineered to cater to diverse culinary needs while ensuring compliance with safety and sanitation regulations.

Prof. Ashish Dahiya, who mentors the student entrepreneurs at MDU’s Centre for Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE), expressed gratitude for the support extended by the university administration. “This patent not only validates our design’s uniqueness and functionality but also sets a precedent for student-led innovation at MDU. We hope it inspires others to pursue real-world problem solving through interdisciplinary collaboration.”

Sahil Saran, one of the lead student inventors, highlighted the practical experiences that fueled their innovation. “We wanted to create a food truck that wasn’t just mobile but truly entrepreneurial—something that could serve as a sustainable business model for small vendors and young chefs looking to start up with minimal investment.”

The university has confirmed that efforts are underway to bring the patented design into commercial production. With potential interest from both private investors and government-supported start-up schemes, the food-truck project could soon become a real-world success story of campus innovation.

This patent adds to a growing list of intellectual property and start-up initiatives emerging from MDU in recent years, reaffirming the university’s rising stature as a hub for innovation and applied research in North India.

IIIT-Bangalore Hosts Patent Workshop to Boost Academic Innovation

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In a significant move to strengthen the intellectual property (IP) landscape within Karnataka’s academic institutions, the International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT-B) organized a one-day workshop titled “Patent Proficiency for Academic Innovators.”  The event, held under the New Age Innovation Network (NAIN) 2.0 program, aimed to equip students, faculty, and innovators with practical knowledge on innovation. 

Empowering Academic Innovators

The workshop was conducted in collaboration with Startup Karnataka and the Department of IT, BT, Government of Karnataka.  Distinguished speakers included Nithin Chakki, KAS, General Manager of the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS); Cmd. Sridhar, Registrar of IIIT-B; Prakash Balekundri, CEO of Unique Patent Solutions.  They emphasized the critical role of intellectual property rights (IPR) in translating academic research into market-ready solutions. 

The sessions provided attendees with insights into identifying patentable ideas, navigating the patent filing process, and enhancing the quality of patent applications.  Real-world case studies and expert guidance were integral to the workshop, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of the journey from research ideation to securing intellectual property. 

Extending Reach to Tier-2 Institutions

As an anchor institute for the NAIN 2.0 program, IIIT-B extended the workshop’s benefits to several affiliated institutions, including Jain (Deemed-to-be University), Bapuji Institute of Engineering & Technology in Davangere, Malnad College of Engineering, Mangalore Institute of Technology and Engineering, and St. Philomena College in Puttur.  This initiative reflects a growing commitment among Tier-2 city institutions to build robust IPR ecosystems and contribute to the state’s innovation goals. 

Fostering a Culture of Innovation

Dr. Lakshmi Jagannathan stressed the importance of guiding these innovators in protecting their work, commercializing it, and contributing meaningfully to the economy.  The workshop also focused on strengthening the capabilities of Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) within institutions, emphasizing their role in bridging the gap between innovative ideas and IP protection. 

About IIIT-Bangalore and Its Innovation Centre

The IIIT-B Innovation Centre serves as a dynamic hub for fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and cutting-edge research.  As a not-for-profit Section 8 company hosted by IIIT-Bangalore, the centre offers state-of-the-art incubation facilities, advanced labs, and access to expert mentorship.  It supports projects across various domains, including artificial intelligence, data science, Internet of Things (IoT), and digital health.  Having supported over 100 startups, the centre plays a pivotal role in nurturing emerging talent and driving technological advancements, positioning itself as a key enabler of innovation and collaboration in India’s tech ecosystem. 

IIIT-Bangalore, Situated in the heart of Electronic City, Bangalore, it holds a prominent position in the academic landscape and is graded A+ by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). 

The successful execution of the “Patent Proficiency for Academic Innovators” workshop marks a significant step forward in Karnataka’s vision to cultivate a knowledge-led innovation economy, ensuring that academic discoveries translate into impactful, real-world solutions.