A one day "National Workshop on Good Laboratory Practice” for sensitization of Faculty & Scientists was held at CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR) on December 07, 2018. This is the second workshop of the national series being conducted by The National GLP Compliance Monitoring Authority (NGCMA), Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India. In its efforts to create a GLP ecosystem in the country, the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, in collaboration with Quality Council of India (QCI) and Clinical Development Services Agency (CDSA), an extramural unit of Translational Health Science & Technology Institute (THSTI), Department of Biotechnology has been organizing such sensitization series for Faculty and Scientists.

Delivering the inaugural address, Professor Y.K. Gupta, Principal Adviser, THSTI and Former Dean (Academics), AIIMS New Delhi reiterated the importance of accurate documentation for successful research and reliable data. Reproducibility of experiments is key to the effective scientific outcome. Lectures were also delivered on the Genesis of NGCMA by Dr Ekta Kapoor, Scientist E, NGCMA; Role of QCI in creating a quality ecosystem by Dr Manish Pande, Joint Director QCI; OECD Principles of GLP by Dr Poonam Kakkar, Chief Scientist CSIR-IITR and Importance of Archiving by Dr Sucheta Banerjee Kurundkar, Director Training, CDSA. Dr A.B. Pant Principal Scientist CSIR-IITR spoke about the role of the Test Facility Management and Dr Sharad Sharma highlighted the role of the Quality Assurance Unit in an ensuring compliance with GLP Principles. An interactive Q and A Session with faculty was the highlight of the workshop.

Is the food you eat, safe? Does the food you eat give you the calories you require? Packaged food, is it as nutritious as the claim?

These were some of the topics that were deliberated upon during the second day of the International Toxicology Conclave at CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research. Kick starting the session on Food and Consumer Safety, Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research said that several institutions under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) umbrella have been working towards this end. Several kits/instruments have been developed for food testing to detect adulterants, contaminants, poor quality, spoilage etc. Presentations were also made on the role of food substances as therapeutic agents and improved food packaging methods to preserve the shelf life of packaged food. A panel discussion at the end of the session listed action points to address the issues of risk assessment, safety testing, improved food packaging methods and preparation of enriched/fortified foods to address the widespread undernutrition/malnutrition in the country.

Curtains came down on the two-day conclave with the valedictory function chaired by Dr S.J.S. Flora, Director, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli. Awards were also given to the participants with the best posters that were displayed during the conclave.  

Earlier in the day, inaugurating the conclave, Dr Anil K Tripathi, Director, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants opined that it is imperative upon the scientific community to scientifically validate the age-old practices of traditional systems of medicine. While AYUSH systems of medicine have yielded the desired results, the increasing global practice of the science demands a more thorough evidence-based safety evaluation, he said. Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR – Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, in his Presidential address reiterated the relevance of toxicology and safety testing in ensuring safer devices and products for human use. Dr Poonam Kakkar, Chief Scientist, CSIR–Indian Institute of Toxicology Research and Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, ITC-2018 welcomed the gathering. Dr Sanghamitra Bandopadhyay and Dr Debabrat Ghosh, Conveners of Organizing Committee, ITC-2018 gave the genesis of the conclave and proposed the vote of thanks, respectively.

A two day International Toxicology Conclave was inaugurated at CSIR–Indian Institute of Toxicology Research in the city on Friday, Nov 02, 2018. Established in 1965, the premier toxicology laboratory organizes the conclave every year as a part of its Annual Day celebrations which was held on November 01, 2018 this year. In this edition of the conclave, experts from academia, industry and regulatory bodies will deliberate on topics in the following niche areas in toxicology:

* Safety of AYUSH Products

* Diagnostics and Biomedical Devices

* Food and Consumer Safety

Day one of the conclave focused on Safety of AYUSH Products and Diagnostics and Biomedical Devices with lectures on model systems for evaluating the safety of ayurvedic medicines, and quality assurance in herbal product development. CSIR–IITR’s initiatives towards the safety of AYUSH products were highlighted. This was followed by deliberations in the areas of new and improved diagnostic devices for Rheumatic Heart Disease and preclinical imaging techniques for safety evaluation, among others. The panel discussion at the end of each session highlighted the key action points that have to be addressed in ensuring safer AYUSH products and biomedical devices.

Earlier in the day, inaugurating the conclave, Dr Anil K Tripathi, Director, CSIR–Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants opined that it is imperative upon the scientific community to scientifically validate the age-old practices of traditional systems of medicine. While AYUSH systems of medicine have yielded the desired results, an increasing global practice of the science demands a more thorough evidence-based safety evaluation, he said. Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR–Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, in his Presidential address reiterated the relevance of toxicology and safety testing in ensuring safer devices and products for human use. Dr Poonam Kakkar, Chief Scientist, CSIR–Indian Institute of Toxicology Research and Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, ITC-2018 welcomed the gathering. Dr Sanghamitra Bandopadhyay and Dr Debabrat Ghosh, Conveners of Organizing Committee, ITC-2018 gave the genesis of the conclave and proposed the vote of thanks, respectively.

CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, the premier toxicology institute in the country, celebrated its 53rd Annual Day on November 01, 2018 at its Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow campus.

Shri Ram Naik, Honourable Governor, Uttar Pradesh was the chief guest of the function. Professor R. K. Khandal, President, R & D and Business Development, India Glycols Limited and Dr Anurag Agrawal, Director, CSIR – Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology were the Guests of Honour for the event.

Professor Alok Dhawan, Director of the institute welcomed the gathering and presented the annual report of the Institute for the year 2017-2018. He apprised the gathering about several success stories of the institute in the year gone by and said that the Foundation Day was an appropriate occasion to cherish the successes of the past and set goals for the future. He reiterated the institute’s commitment to the National Mission Programmes like Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat, Skill India, Namami Gange etc and informed the gathering that, in sync with the Make In India programme, the institute has recently transferred the technology for an indigenously developed water purification system named ONEER.

On the occasion, CSIR-IITR Annual Report in Hindi and in English, a compilation of CSIR-IITR in the print media, Assessment of Ambient Air Quality of Lucknow City: Post Monsoon – 2018, CSIR-IITR R&D Publications 2017-2018, Zaidi Centenary Book and the institute’s calendar for the year 2019 were also released. Several staff members of the CSIR-IITR family were also felicitated by the Honourable Governor for their distinguished service to the institute.

Delivering his Presidential Address, Sri Ram Naik, Honourable Governor, Uttar Pradesh congratulated the CSIR–IITR family on the important milestone and encouraged the scientists to keep up the good work done while stepping up the pace of meeting targets. He exhorted the scientific community to also work towards finding solutions for current problems that the farming community of the country faces.

Dr K. C. Khulbe, Senior Principal Scientist proposed the vote of thanks. 

Earlier in the day the 22nd Professor Sibte Hasan Zaidi Oration was delivered by Dr Anurag Agrawal, Director, CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi. The lecture is organized every year to honour the founding Director of the institute. The celebrations concluded with a cultural extravaganza by the research scholars, staff and their families of the institute who showcased their creative and innovative capabilities besides their scientific achievements.

As a part of its 53rd Annual Day Celebrations, CSIR – Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow, organized the 22nd Professor Sibte Hasan Zaidi Oration. The lecture is organized every year to honour the founding Director of the institute and this year it was delivered by Dr Anurag Agrawal, Director, CSIR – Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi.

Welcoming the gathering, Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR-IITR reiterated that the institute remembers its founding fathers on the occasion and rededicates itself to fulfilling the motto of the institute i.e., Safety to Environment and Health and Service to Industry. It was indeed a special occasion for the institute and its staff with the presence of several senior CSIR family members, he said.

Dr Yogeshwar Shukla, Chief Scientist, introduced the guests, Dr Anurag Agrawal and Professor R. K. Khandal, President of the function. This was followed by the Oration by Dr Anurag Agrawal on “Targeting Mitochondria for Preventing Lung Disease: Being Precisely Imprecise”, in which he opined that recent findings suggest molecular similarities between clinically different lung diseases. This linking is an opportunity to develop a 3R Model of mitochondrial targeted therapies – repair, reprogramming and replacement to prevent or treat respiratory diseases in pre-clinical models.

Delivering the Presidential address, Professor R. K. Khandal, President, R & D and Business Development, India Glycols Limited emphasized the relevance of translational and problem-solving approaches in research and development. He added that organizations should aim at self-sustainability and work toward fund creation instead of being fund seekers.

Dr A B Pant, Principal Scientist, CSIR – IITR, proposed the vote of thanks.

The device will go a long way in meeting the requirements of potable water in rural and urban areas: Dr. Harsh Vardhan

CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow has developed an innovative technology for “Drinking Water Disinfection System” with Trademark “OneerTM” which was transferred to M/s Bluebird Water Purifiers, New Delhi on October 17, 2018 in the presence of Union Minister of Science & Technology and Vice-President, CSIR, Dr. Harsh Vardhan. It is useful for the continuous treatment of water and eliminates all disease-causing pathogens such as virus, bacteria, fungi, protozoa and cyst to provide safe drinking water to domestic and communities settings as per National and International standards prescribed for potable water (BIS, WHO etc.).

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Harsh Vardhan said that it is well known that infection through drinking water results in an increase in morbidity and mortality particularly amongst children and Oneer developed by CSIR-IITR, will provide access to safe and clean drinking water at a cost of just 2 Paise / Ltr. Dr. Harsh Vardhan further added that the Community level model is of 450 LPH capacity which can be scaled up to 5000 to 1 lakh L/day, and is also maintenance and membrane free. “The technology will be helpful especially for rural people since it can be solar powered and this development is in line with the ‘Make in India’ Mission”, added the Union Minister.

 Dr. Shekhar C Mande, Director General, CSIR and Secretary, DSIR lauded the efforts of CSIR-IITR Scientists in developing Oneer: A safe drinking water device, especially for rural areas. He said that currently, a large proportion of India's rural community is consuming water that does not meet the WHO drinking water quality standards. According to the World Health Organization, "access to safe drinking water is essential to health, a basic human right and a component of effective policy for health protection”.

CSIR is continuously focusing on translational research through Mission Projects and Fast Track Translational Research Projects to develop technologies and products focussed at unmet needs. One of the components of the programme is to enhance the quality of life of common people and remove drudgery.

Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR-IITR also emphasized the application of this novel innovation for masses. The smaller unit of Oneer is particularly suitable for homes, street food vendors, and small establishments. He also thanked the Hon’ble Minister of Science & Technology, Dr Harshvardhan and DG CSIR Dr Shekhar C Mande for showing their keen interest in this innovation and making the occasion a grand success with their gracious presence.

सीएसआईआर-भारतीय विषविज्ञान अनुसंधान संस्थान (सीएसआईआर-आईआईटीआर), लखनऊ में दिनांक 14 सितंबर  को एस.एच. जैदी सभागार में हिंदी सप्ताह के उद्घाटन समारोह का आयोजन किया गया। समारोह के मुख्य  अतिथि श्री राम नाईक, माननीय राज्यपाल, उत्तर प्रदेश थे। माननीय राज्यपाल महोदय ने दीप प्रज्ज्वलन कर समारोह का शुभारंभ किया। इसके उपरांत सीएसआईआर-आईआईटीआर द्वारा विषविज्ञान विषय पर पुस्तक, “विषविज्ञान अनुसंधान के नए आयाम”, संस्थान की छमाही राजभाषा पत्रिका “विषविज्ञान संदेश” के अंक 29 का विमोचन किया तथा इसके साथ-साथ “खाद्य एवं उपभोक्ता सुरक्षा समाधान” वेबसाइट का प्रमोचन (लाँच) किया। इसके अतिरिक्त पेयजल, पॉलीथिन व प्लास्टिक तथा ओनीर पर विवरणिका का भी विमोचन किया गया।  इस अवसर पर मुख्य  अतिथि महोदय ने अपने संबोधन में कहा कि विषविज्ञान संदेश, विषविज्ञान अनुसंधान के नए आयाम, इसके अतिरिक्त पेयजल, पॉलीथिन व प्लास्टिक तथा ओनीर, खाद्य एवं उपभोक्ता सुरक्षा समाधान (फूड एंड कंज़्यूमर सेफ़्टी सल्यूशन(फ़ोकस) पर जो विवरणिका (लघु पुस्तकें) आईआईटीआर द्वारा हिंदी में प्रकाशित की जा रही हैं यह अति प्रशंसनीय कार्य है। हिंदी में प्रकाशित यह सामग्री आम जनता के लिए लाभकारी है। इन विवरणिकाओं का अधिक से अधिक प्रकाशन किया जाना चाहिए जिससे जनता इसका लाभ उठा सके। सीएसआईआर–आईआईटीआर हिंदी भाषा में उल्लेखनीय कार्य कर रहा है। अन्य संस्थानों हेतु यह अनुकरणीय है। प्रथम स्वतंत्रता संग्राम में हिंदी का उपयोग हुआ और आज़ादी मिलने तक उपयोग होता रहा। इसके उपरांत संविधान सभा में देश की राजभाषा कौन हो इस पर बहुत विचार हुआ,  तदुपरांत हिंदी को 14 सितंबर, 1949 को राजभाषा के रूप में स्वीकार किया गया। आज हिंदी भाषा केवल हिंदी भाषी क्षेत्र तक सीमित न होकर संपूर्ण भारत में फैल चुकी है। आंकड़ों के अनुसार आज लगभग 70 करोड़ लोग हिंदी भाषा प्रयोग कर रहे  हैं। यह संख्या इससे अधिक भी हो सकती है। हिंदी साहित्य की भाषा है। मैं महाराष्ट्र का हूँ परंतु सरलता से हिंदी बोलता हूँ।  हिंदी के सरल शब्दों का प्रयोग करना चाहिए जिससे सभी लोग समझ सकें। हम सभी को विचार करना चाहिए कि हिंदी का और विकास, प्रचार तथा प्रसार कैसे हो। विज्ञान और विधि के क्षेत्र  में हिंदी भाषा संबंधी कार्य और होना चाहिए। सर्वोच्च और उच्च न्यायालय अपने निर्णय हिंदी में प्रकाशित करने हेतु प्रयासरत हैं। 

इस अवसर पर संस्थान के निदेशक, प्रोफेसर आलोक धावन ने अपने संबोधन में विमोचन की जाने वाली पुस्तकों एवं संस्थान के इनोवेशन संबंधी  गतिविधियों के बारे में जानकारी प्रदान करते हुए कहा कि संस्थान के वैज्ञानिकों ने सरल हिंदी भाषा में एक पुस्तक, "विषविज्ञान अनुसंधान के नए आयाम"  लिखा है। हमने विगत तीन वर्षों के अनुसंधान कार्यों को  हिंदी पत्रिका के माध्ययम से आम लोगों तक पहुँचाया है। आम जनता से संबंधित विषयों पर हिंदी में अनेक  विवरणिकाएं प्रकाशित की हैं। पर्यावरण प्रदूषण विषय पर हिंदी माध्यम में राष्ट्रीय एवं अंतरराष्ट्रीय वैज्ञानिक संगोष्ठियों का सफल आयोजन किया जा चुका है। संस्थांन का वार्षिक प्रतिवेदन विगत कई वर्षों से हिंदी में प्रकाशित किया जा रहा है। संस्थान के शोध कार्यों को हिंदी के समाचार पत्रों एवं इलेक्ट्रॉनिक मीडिया में प्रमुखता से प्रकाशित/प्रसारित किया जाता है, साथ ही डी.डी. किसान चैनल और अन्यम चैनलों के माध्यंम से किसानों तक जानकारी पहुँचाई जाती है। हमारे संस्थान को भारत सरकार, गृह मंत्रालय, राजभाषा विभाग द्वारा हिंदी भाषा के कार्यान्वयन के लिए प्रथम पुरस्कार  तथा संस्थान की छमाही राजभाषा पत्रिका विषविज्ञान संदेश को लगातार तीन बार प्रथम पुरस्कार प्रदान किए गए हैं एवं कई बार अन्य पुरस्कार भी प्राप्त हुए हैं। अनुसंधान में हम प्रमुख रूप से खाद्य, पेयजल और पर्यावरण के क्षेत्र में कार्यरत हैं। हमारा संस्थारन स्वच्छ भारत, स्वस्थ भारत, स्टार्टअप जैसे कार्यक्रमों में सक्रिय रूप से योगदान दे रहा है। भारत सरकार के नमामि गंगे कार्यक्रम के अंतर्गत सात स्थानों पर जल का विश्लेषण कर रहा है।

इससे पूर्व डॉ. पूनम कक्कड़, मुख्य वैज्ञानिक ने माननीय राज्यपाल महोदय का स्वागत किया।

संस्थान के हिंदी अधिकारी श्री चन्द्र  मोहन तिवारी ने  कहा कि हिंदी सप्ताह के दौरान प्रश्नोत्तरी (क्विज), स्लोगन (आदर्श-वाक्य), वाद-विवाद, आशुभाषण, हिंदीतर भाषी का हिंदी ज्ञान, लेख, अनुवाद, प्रस्तुतीकरण, कविता/कहानी की रचना और कवि सम्मेलन प्रतियोगिताओं का आयोजन किया जाएगा।  प्रतियोगिताओं में वैज्ञानिक, तकनीकी एवं प्रशासनिक अधिकारी/कर्मचारी/शोध-छात्र बढ़-चढ़कर भाग लेते है।  

राष्ट्रगान के साथ कार्यक्रम संपन्न हुआ और डॉ. डी. कार चौधुरी, मुख्य वैज्ञानिक ने धन्यवाद ज्ञापित किया।

CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow formally signed a Transfer of Technology- (TOT) agreement with M/s SSMaser Technology Private Limited, A Sterilisation Tech Company, for “An electronic device for the disinfection of drinking water” on August 13, 2018. This agreement was signed by Dr KC Khulbe, Head-Research Planning & Business Development, CSIR-IITR and Professor Vinayak Nath, Co-Founder, ED and CEO of M/s SSMaser Technology Private Limited. This initiative by CSIR-IITR in the state of Uttar Pradesh is in alignment with the Central Government initiatives on ‘Make in India’, ‘Kayakalp’, “Digital India” and ‘Startup India’ to raise support for various MSMEs and comprehensively integrate the national missions of Swastha Bharat and Swachh Bharat and SSMaser’s Technology “Building Bharat Initiative”. On this occasion, Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR-IITR and Mr Monish Bhandari, ED, SSMaser Technology Private Limited were present along with other scientists and dignitaries.

On this day, CSIR-IITR also launched a new CSIR India Mission-Mode Programme on Food and Consumer Safety Solutions (FOCUS): Delivering Technological Solutions for Food Safety. Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR-IITR informed that the considering the national priority of safe food for all, a series of stakeholder dialogues initiated by CSIR-IITR to provide safe and nutritious food led to the identification of gaps where technological interventions are required. Several major industries and regulatory agencies including FSSAI, BIS and Export Council of India were consulted during the formulation of this mission mode programme to meet the unmet needs of the farmers, industries, consumers and regulatory agencies. Seven laboratories of CSIR (have come together to work in this mission mode programme to provide solutions from “seed to stomach”. The deliverables of FOCUS will provide solutions for the farmers by providing cost-effective and efficient embedded controlled storage chamber and electrostatic coating system for preserving and enhancing the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. New methods and technologies for detection of mycotoxin, pesticides and other contaminants in food products will be developed to cater the need of testing requirements be regulatory agencies for export. The project will address the problem of adulteration in milk and milk products, and sensors and devices for detection of adulterants and contaminants in milk products, ghee and edible oils will be developed for use by the regulator as well as the consumer. Also, multi-analyte sensors will be developed for the detection of spoilage in the packaged foods such as packaged juice, meat and dairy products. The knowledge generated will be disseminated to the public through new apps, street-vendor’s awareness programmes and stakeholders workshops. FOCUS has strong relevance to Make in India, Swasth Bharat, Swachh Bharat, Innovate in India, Skill India and Startup India. 

The message on World Environment Day-2018, from the Secretary-General, United Nations, António Guterres is loud and clear: "Reject single-use plastic, refuse what you can’t re-use. Together, we can chart a path to a cleaner, greener world”. Widespread use of plastic is a worldwide environmental issue and individual commitments in tackling plastic pollution and taking specific measures for the same is the need of the hour. This year India is hosting the World Environment Day–2018 Celebrations. In sync with the national commitment of creating awareness about the detrimental effects of excessive plastic use, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow celebrated the World Environment Day–2018 on June 05, 2018. As a part of the Environment Day Celebrations, the institute organised the Dr. C.R. Krishnamurti Memorial Oration in honour of the second Director of the institute. This year the lecture, 22nd in the series was delivered by Professor Ricky Kej, Grammy Award Winning Music Composer and Adjunct Professor, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru. He opined that music is a powerful language not just for communicating a message but for retaining that message deep in the consciousness of a listener. Ricky Kej believes music and nature are one and the same and has dedicated his life in creating environmental consciousness and raising awareness on climate change through his music which was emphasised in his talk “Music for the Planet”.

Welcoming the gathering, Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR–Indian Institute of Toxicology Research said that it was indeed a unique opportunity for the institute to host the Grammy Award-winning artist who has brought together artists from around the globe to amalgamate music and nature to work towards environment conservation. Professor P. K. Seth, NASI Senior Scientist, Platinum Jubilee Fellow and former Director CSIR–Indian Institute of Toxicology Research presided over the function. In his presidential address, he said that Indian culture and caring for the environment are integral to one another. Invoking the five elements of nature is a part of our daily routine and no event or occasion is complete without praying for peace and harmony for the entire universe. Prize winners of a painting competition for school children, conducted in the preceding week on the theme Beating Plastic Pollution, were felicitated on the occasion.

 “Beat Plastic Pollution” is the theme for the World Environment Day–2018 and it urges governments, industry, communities, and individuals to come together and explore sustainable alternatives to the excessive use of plastic. This widespread use of plastics is polluting our oceans, damaging marine life and threatening human health. The Government of India is committed to organizing and promoting the World Environment Day celebrations through a series of engaging activities and events generating strong public interest and participation. In sync with the national commitment, CSIR-IITR, Lucknow will celebrate the World Environment Day–2018 on June 05, 2018. 

The institute will organize the 22nd Dr C.R. Krishnamurti Memorial Oration in honour of the second Director of the institute. The oration will be delivered by Shri Ricky Kej, Grammy Award Winning Music Composer and Adjunct Professor, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru, at 10.30 AM in the S.H. Zaidi Auditorium of the institute. A painting competition for school children, on the World Environment Day theme was conducted in the preceding week and prize winners of the same will be felicitated on the occasion.

To reiterate the importance of Science in our daily lives and encourage students to embrace Science as a career option, the National Technology Day is celebrated by the country, every year on May 11. This day also commemorates, Operation Shakti, the Pokhran Nuclear Test conducted on May 11, 1998 thus cementing India’s place as a full-fledged nuclear power.

CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow observed the day through day long celebrations that began at 10 AM. The day was observed as an Open Day for school and college students to visit the Institute and interact with the scientists. As a part of the Institute’s Jigyasa Programme (to attract young talent towards research and development), more than 300 students from Surya Public School, Sultanpur and Kendriya Vidyalaya Aliganj and CRPF branches visited the Centre for Innovation and Translation Research (CITAR) of the institute. They enjoyed an interactive session with the scientists and were excited to get a glimpse of the cutting edge research being undertaken at the institute. 

The institute also hosted Sri Jitendra Sharma, MD and CEO of Andhra Pradesh Medtech Zone Limited. He expressed his keen interest in O-Neer, the water purification technology developed by CSIR – IITR and explored the possibility of a technology transfer MOU with the institute. The celebrations continued through the day and culminated with the ‘Technology Day Lecture’ at 4.00 PM in the S. H. Zaidi Auditorium of the institute. The lecture was delivered by Sri Vinayak Nath, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Venture Catalysts, Uttar Pradesh. Sri Vinayak Nath made an extremely lucid presentation highlighting the role of relevant technologies in successful start-ups to ensure sustainable growth. Speaking on the occasion, Professor Alok Dhawan, Director of the institute opined that risk mitigation plays a key role in ensuring commercialization of new technologies and their success in fulfilling public needs.

Perfumes and fragrances have been used since the beginning of human history and its use has been recorded in the earliest available historical literature. A recent report titled, “India Flavor and fragrance Industry Outlook to 2020” documents the steady growth of the fragrance market during the last five years. Significant technology advancements, growing importance towards personal grooming and increasing consumer spending on wellness products has contributed to this growth. To attain global leadership, it is imperative that the fragrance industry equips itself to meet the challenges thrown at it by this ever growing market. Coupled with this is the urgent need for value addition in fragrances through standardization as well as generating scientifically valid safety data. Creation of an enabling ecosystem with industry-academia partnership will hasten to achieve these goals. With this in mind, CSIR-IITR organized a stakeholder dialogue at its premises on February 15, 2018, with the representatives of fragrance industries, association leaders and regulators to deliberate on the above issues and draw a roadmap for a sustainable future of the fragrance industries.

Delivering his inaugural address, Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR – Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, emphasized that the time is ripe for industry and academia to sit with one another and not across, join hands and work together to strengthen the industry and ensure a sustainable future for all stake holders.

Dr Anil K Tripathi, Director, CSIR – Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), said that a point of convergence between academia and industry is only possible through dialogue. Farmers’ empowerment through fair practices of trade and industry will ensure equitable and sustainable growth for all.

Dr James C Romine, President, Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM), USA said the fragrance is universal and the need to ensure its quality is a global requirement. RIFM was formed in 1966, in an effort to provide research on commonly used fragrance materials.

Ms Martina Bianchini, President, International Fragrance Association (IFRA), Switzerland said their association “smells” an opportunity in the ever-growing industry. She opined that increasing awareness will lead to better decision making ensuring all round development of the industry.

Mr Michael Carlos, Chairman, IFRA and RIFM appreciated the pioneering work carried out by CSIR-CIMAP in the areas of perfumes and essential oils and the initiative taken by CSIR-IITR to bring together all the stakeholders on a single platform to ensure the growth of the industry.

Mr Sant Sanganeria, Founder Chairman and Managing Director, Ultra International Limited, New Delhi (Industry partner of the meet) drew the attention of the participants to the vast potential of the global fragrance market. He said that the there is a great opportunity for the Indian fragrance industry reap the benefits of this market through innovative product development in order to meet the requirements of global quality standards. 

Some important presentations during the scientific sessions were made by Dr Shekhar Mitra, President, InnoPreneur LLC, Consulting Partner, Yourencore, Fmr, SVP, Global Innovation at Procter and Gamble, Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S.A;  Sh. Shakti Vinay Shukla, Director, Fragrance & Flavour Development Centre, Kannauj;  Dr U S P Yadav, Bureau of Indian Standards, India;  Dr Vijay Bambulkar, Consultant, Former Johnson & Johnson, Mumbai;  Dr Anne Marie Api, Vice President, Toxicologist, Research Institute of Fragrance Material (RIFM); Mr Rahul Parakhia, Toxicologist. RIFM; Mr Atish Patel, RIFM; Dr Ram Vishwakarma, Director, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine; Dr D Ramaiah, Director, CSIR-North East Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat and Dr Sanjay Kumar, Director, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur.

The scientific sessions were followed by a panel discussion by the experts to formulate the future course of action.

India is known for its Perfumes, Fragrances and Flavors. However, to attain global leadership, there is a need for the fragrance industry to gear up to the emerging challenges faced by the global market. Also, there is an urgent need for value addition in fragrances through standardization as well as generating scientifically valid safety data. This will allow for export-oriented business to flourish in India. For achieving these goals, it is necessary to create awareness as well as an enabling ecosystem with the industry-academia partnership. This will lead to brand building and sustainable growth in this sector, thereby strengthening the fragrance industry in the country.

CSIR-IITR, Lucknow is organizing an Industry-Academia meet: CSIR-INDUSTRY ACTION PLAN FOR SUSTAINABLE FUTURE “INCITE 2018" on February 15, 2018 at our institute. The focus of this meeting will exclusively be the fragrance industry in the country. The aim of this meet is to enable an ecosystem with industry-academia partnership and initiate stakeholder dialogue with the representatives of fragrance industries, association leaders, and regulators, to deliberate on the unmet issues and draw a roadmap for a sustainable future for the fragrance industries.

Distinguished guests and leaders from multinationals scientific forum and industries will be participating in the event.

The Technical Programme of INCITE 2018 will include:

•  Sustainability of Indian Fragrance Market for Global Leadership

•  Fragrance Material Safety Evaluation

•  Integrating Industry-Academia-Customer Network on Research and Policy

Organizer

CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research

Co-organizer

CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants

49th Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar Memorial Tournament (Outdoor Zonal) was inaugurated at CSIR-Indian Toxicology Research Institute (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow on 31st January 2018 at 3.00 PM. Professor Alok Dhawan, Director CSIR-IITR welcomed the guests and players from 10 CSIR labs across the country who will be participating in cricket and volleyball tournaments. He asked the players to participate in the games with sportsman spirit to instill a sense of teamwork among the employees of CSIR. He said that there is very limited scope for games in CSIR laboratories. However, CSIR laboratories took initiative to promote sports, a universal form of recreation and one of the great expressions of the aspirations of an individual to excel.  He also said that it is difficult for a scientist and/or other staff in the CSIR system to be competitive in sports at national/international level and also be competitive in their individual pursuits of science, sports in CSIR started with ‘club sports type’ where individuals play and participate for their physical and mental fitness. Shri R.P. Singh, player, Indian National Cricket Team was the chief guest on this occasion. Shri Singh narrated his story of rising from a novice player from Lucknow to the international arena. He also described some very interesting incidents of his cricket career. He asked the participating teams to play the games with a competitive spirit without worrying about winning or loosing. Professor R P Tripathi, Director, CSIR-CIMAP and Dr S.K. Barik, Director, CSIR-NBRI also graced the occasion. 

The event was followed by a cultural event at CSIR-IITR Lawns.

Colorful closing of 49th SSBMT (outdoor zoal) tournament 

The valedictory function of The four day (1-4 February) 49th SSBMT (outdoor zonal tournament) organized by CSIR–IITR Lucknow was held on  Feb 04, 2018. Dr. VM Tiwari Director CSIR-NGRI Hyderabad, and Chairman CSIR Sports promotion Board was the chief guest of the function. Professor Alok Dhawan, Director CSIR-IITR and Chairman Organizing committee, welcomed the guests and players from different CSIR laboratories who have come to Lucknow to participate in cricket and volleyball events. He stated that sports activities provide a unique opportunity for close bonding and togetherness among different institutes. Dr Y. Shukla Chief scientist, and Vice President, Organizing Committee, officially announced the winners of both team events. Teams CSIR-IMMT Bhuvaneshwar and  CSIR-CEERI, Pilani won the knockout matches in cricket and qualified for finals. In Volleyball, CSIR-CEERI, Pilani and CSIR-NPL, Delhi won the knockout matches and qualified for Finals.

Dr D. Kar Choudhuri, Chief Scientist, CSIR-IITR and Vice chairman Organizing Committee introduced the Chief guest Dr V.M. Tiwari. In his remarks, Dr Tiwari said that the games played in true team spirit are always tremendous in believing human values. He complemented CSIR-IITR for organizing the event in an excellent manner. The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr R.S. Ray. 

सीएसआईआर-भारतीय विषविज्ञान अनुसंधान संस्थान, लखनऊ को अप्रैल से सितंबर छमाही (2017-18) की अवधि में राजभाषा हिंदी में कार्यालयी कार्यों में उत्कृष्ट प्रदर्शन का द्वितीय पुरस्कार और संस्थान की राजभाषा पत्रिका ‘’विषविज्ञान संदेश’’ के अंक 27, वर्ष 2017-18 के प्रकाशन हेतु तृतीय पुरस्कार प्राप्त् हुआ। पुरस्कार के रूप में शील्ड’ और प्रमाणपत्र प्रदान किया गया। संस्थान की ओर से निदेशक, प्रोफेसर आलोक धावन, प्रशासन नियंत्रक, श्री अनिल कुमार तथा हिंदी अधिकारी, श्री चन्द्र मोहन तिवारी ने इस पुरस्कार को प्राप्त किया। यह पुरस्कार भारत सरकार, राजभाषा विभाग, गृह मंत्रालय, नगर राजभाषा कार्यान्वयन समिति (कार्यालय-3), लखनऊ की दिनांक 25.11.2017 को छमाही बैठक में प्रदान किया गया। भाकृअनुप-भारतीय गन्ना अनुसंधान संस्थान, लखनऊ में आयोजित इस बैठक के दौरान 61 सदस्य कार्यालयों में से मूल्यांकन के आधार पर यह पुरस्कार दिया गया। भाकृअनुप- भारतीय गन्ना अनुसंधान संस्थान, लखनऊ के निदेशक और अध्यक्ष, नगर राजभाषा कार्यान्वन समिति (कार्यालय-3), लखनऊ ने कहा कि वैज्ञानिक संस्थान होने के बावजूद इतने कम समय में भारतीय विषविज्ञान अनुसंधान संस्थान, लखनऊ ने हिंदी में जो कार्य किया वह अन्य सभी कार्यालयों हेतु अनुकरणीय उदाहरण है। सी.एस.आई.आर.-भारतीय विषविज्ञान अनुसंधान संस्थान (सीएसआईआर-आईआईटीआर), लखनऊ और नगर राजभाषा कार्यान्वयन समिति, कार्यालय-3, लखनऊ के संयुक्त तत्वावधान में 11-13 अक्टूमबर, 2017 को आयोजित अंतरराष्ट्रीय वैज्ञानिक संगोष्ठी ''पर्यावरण प्रदूषण: चुनौतियाँ एवं रणनीतियाँ” राजभाषा कार्यान्वन की दिशा में एक मील का पत्थर है। संस्थान का यह प्रयास उल्लेखनीय एवं सराहनीय है। अपने संबोधन में प्रोफेसर आलोक धावन, निदेशक, सीएसआईआर-आईआईटीआर ने कहा कि हमने राजभाषा हिंदी के माध्यम से जनसाधारण हेतु अधिकतर सामग्री का हिंदी में प्रकाशन किया है, जिनमें संस्थाान की छमाही राजभाषा पत्रिका ‘’विषविज्ञान संदेश’’, द्विभाषी वार्षिक प्रतिवेदन एवं अन्य जनोपयोगी सूचनाएं उल्लेखनीय हैं। उन्होंने कहा कि माननीय राज्य्पाल, उत्तर प्रदेश द्वारा पिछले वर्ष राष्ट्रीय वैज्ञानिक संगोष्ठी के अवसर पर यह प्रेरणा दी गई थी कि हिंदी में अंतरराष्ट्रीय वैज्ञानिक संगोष्ठी का आयोजन किया जाए और एक वर्ष के अन्दर ही हमने इसका आयोजन किया। अपनी भाषा में ऐसे आयोजन से व्याापक प्रचार-प्रसार होता है और आपकी दृश्यता भी बढ़ जाती है। उन्होंने यह भी कहा कि हमारे संस्थान के पॉंच शोध क्षेत्रों में से प्रत्येक से पॉंच-पॉंच लेखों को संकलित कर शीघ्र ही एक पुस्तक का प्रकाशन किया जायेगा। इससे जनसामान्य को शोध के क्षेत्र से संबंधित नवीनतम जानकारी प्राप्त हो सकेगी और वे इससे लाभान्वित हो सकेंगे।

3rd International Toxicology Conclave, a two day long Industries-Academia meet has been inaugurated in the SH Zaidi Auditorium of CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow on November 5, 2017. The inaugural address for the program was delivered by the Chief Guest of the day, Dr Rakesh Kumar, Director, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, India, followed by the keynote address by Dr B. Sesikeran, Former Director, National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, India on the topic “Safety assessment for nutrients”. He emphasized on the adequate balance of micro and macro nutrients in our daily life and how both over and under consumption of the vitamins and other nutrients may significantly affect the human health. 

On day one, the scientific program was comprised of two technical sessions; each one was followed by an expert panel discussion on the theme of the session and one scientific poster session. Session I was emphasized on the theme ‘Environmental Monitoring & Risk Assessment’ consisting of 5 lectures followed by a panel discussion by the experts of the area. 

Dr SC Barman, Senior Principal Scientist of CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR), Lucknow appraised about the health issues associated with the indoor and outdoor air quality and the efforts made by CSIR-IITR to assess the pollutant load in the air, its impact on human health and mitigation measures being taken to address the issues. In the illustrative talk, Dr. Satish Sohoni of Hikal Limited, Mumbai, stressed upon the ways by which his firm is working to increase the level of groundwater. He detailed about the company mission and efforts made by so far by Smaart Water, an integral company for Water Solutions Management in Mumbai, to provide an integrated and holistic water solution for a lifetime. Dr. Dinesh Mohan of Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi discussed his research work carried out to address the issue of environmental pollution by burning of crop biomass in the agriculture fields. He has developed low cost green adsorbent bio-charcoal from plant waste material which has high organic carbon contents and resistant to decomposition. This biochar will not only be immensely helpful to solve the crop burning issues but also be considered as an environmentally sustainable technology for water, soil and climate change mitigation. He further added that the crop residue may be converted into biofuel, heat and power using different thermal, biochemical and mechanical platforms. Dr. Mukesh Sharma of IIT, Kanpur, deliberated regarding the uncertainties in a physiologically based pharmacokinetic model which explains regarding the uptake, accumulation, estimation and elimination of lead in the human body. He narrated about the applicability of this model to estimate the human health risk of the xenobiotic exposure. Dr. John Colbourne, Professor and Chair of Environmental Genomics, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, addressed the issues associated with the interpretation of the data due to the complexity of genome-environment interaction. He highlighted the importance of Daphnia and Fundulus as model species to point-out the importance of measuring the elements of the genome that may be targeted towards the natural selection resulting in increased tolerance to the exposure of toxic environmental conditions. His findings reveal chemical modes of action leading to harm to animals including humans. There was a panel of experts to discuss the highlights of the session to reach any firm conclusion out of deliberations and making the final recommendations for implementation.

The session-II themed on ‘Innovations and Translational Research’ was having four lectures followed by an expert panel discussion. Dr. Anil Wali of Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer New Delhi emphasized upon the bridging the gaps between academia and industry to synchronize the research, innovation and start-ups in India. The talk of Dr. R Govindarajan of Zydus Wellness Limited, Ahmedabad, focused on the global revival plant-based traditional medicines. He appraised about the developments coming up in the research parameters on quality control of herbal medicines. He also emphasized on the need of scientific validation of data generated for developed herbal medicines. Dr. H Purushotham of National Research Development Cooperation, New Delhi has delivered a talk focusing on the identification of the critical factors for successful technology transfer in the Indian scenario. His studies identify the critical factors influencing successful technology transfer from Indian public funded R&D institutions to the industry. Dr. Arun Chandru of Pandrum Technologies, Bangaluru, India has discussed the role of bioengineered 3D functional human tissue and organoids as a possible vital tool to bridge the gap between traditional 2D cell culture assay, animal models and human trials in the development of new drugs and vaccines. Following the session lectures panel of experts discussed the issues highlighted during the presentations and formulated the final recommendations for the possible implementations.

CSIR – Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, the premier toxicology institute in the country, celebrated its 52nd Annual Day on November 04, 2017 at its Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Lucknow campus.

Professor Arun Tiwari, Former Missile Scientist, and Author was the chief guest of the function which was presided over by Padma Shri Dr. Nitya Anand, Former Director, CSIR-CDRI.

Professor Alok Dhawan, Director of the institute welcomed the gathering and presented the annual report of the Institute for the year 2016-2017. He described several notable contributions of the institute in the year gone by and said that the Foundation Day was an appropriate occasion to cherish the successes of the past and set goals for the future by rededicating oneself to fulfilling the mission of the institute. He reiterated the institute’s commitment to the National Mission Programmes like Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat, Skill India, Namami Gange etc and informed the gathering that the institute was releasing its Annual Report in the digital format, in sync with the Digital India Programme.

Following release of the annual report, Dr. D. Kar Chowdhuri, Chief Scientist, CSIR-IITR and Chairman of the Organizing Committee introduced the guests.

While delivering the Annual Day address, Professor Arun Tiwari said that the widening gap between the “have’s” and “have-not’s” is a hurdle in the country’s all round development. He suggested that increased social responsibility, even by individuals is the best way forward.

Padma Shri Dr. Nitya Anand delivered the presidential address and congratulated the CSIR–IITR family on the important milestone while simultaneously urging the institute not to rest on past laurels. He exhorted the scientists to work towards fulfilling the dreams of the founding fathers of the nation.

On this occasion, CSIR-IITR Annual Report (both in Hindi and English), a compilation of CSIR-IITR in the print media, a brochure describing the CITAR Facility (Centre for Innovation and Translational Research), a book on Nanotoxicology and the institute’s calendar for the year 2018 were also released. Several staff members of the CSIR-IITR family were recognized for their distinguished service to the institute.

Dr. Devendra Parmar, Chief Scientist proposed a vote of thanks. The celebrations concluded with a cultural extravaganza by the research scholars of the Institute

The 21st Professor Sibte Hasan Zaidi Oration was delivered by Professor Arun Tiwari, Former Missile Scientist and Author at the premier toxicology institute of the country, CSIR – Indian Institute of Toxicology Research. The S. H. Zaidi Oration is organized annually in honor of the Founding Director of the institute, Professor Sibte Hasan Zaidi.

Welcoming the gathering, Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR-IITR narrated the genesis of the oration which is now in its 21st year. It was indeed a special “Gurupurab” for the institute and its staff with the presence of several senior colleagues among the audience, he said.

Dr. Yogeshwar Shukla, Chief Scientist, introduced the guests, Professor Arun Tiwari and Professor P. K. Seth, Former Director, CSIR-IITR, President of the function. This was followed by the Oration by Professor Arun Tiwari on “Science of Discovery to Science of Delivery”, in which he said that New India is faced with the daunting tasks of ending poverty and boosting shared prosperity. He opined that the need of the hour is “science of implementation and execution” and described the development of the Kalam-Raju Stent, a perfect example of a successful spin-off of a defense technology for civilian use. The enormous complexity of fulfilling the needs of our people can only be simplified by ensuring a paradigm shift from “what to deliver” to “how to deliver” to ensure that the benefits of technology reach every citizen of this country.  

Delivering the presidential address, Professor P. K. Seth, who had the privilege of having worked with Professor S H Zaidi, described him as a visionary who had the foresight to establish a Toxicology institute. He opined that the need of the hour is to ensure that technologies developed in the laboratories reach the end user and benefit society at large.

Dr. A B Pant, convenor organizing committee, proposed the vote of thanks.

सीएसआईआर-भारतीय विषविज्ञान अनुसंधान संस्थान, लखनऊ में आज दिनांक 14 सितंबर, 2017 को प्रातः 10:30 बजे एस.एच. जैदी सभागार में हिंदी सप्ताह के उद्घाटन समारोह का आयोजन किया गया। श्री चंद्र मोहन तिवारी, हिंदी अधिकारी, आईआईटीआर ने अतिथिगण का परिचय दिया। समारोह के मुख्य अतिथि श्री पीयूष वर्मा, क्षेत्रीय पासपोर्ट अधिकारी, लखनऊ एवं विशिष्ट अतिथि डॉ. अनिल रस्तोगी, वैज्ञानिक एवं फिल्म कलाकार थे। इस अवसर पर मुख्य अतिथि श्री पीयूष वर्मा ने अपने संबोधन में कहा कि केवल हिंदी दिवस को नहीं संपूर्ण वर्ष इसी चेतना एवं संकल्प से हिंदी में अधिक से अधिक कार्य करें। हमें अपनी भाषा पर गर्व करना चाहिए। सरल भाषा का प्रयोग करते हुए विज्ञान की छोटी – छोटी पुस्तके हिंदी भाषा में लिखना चाहिए। भाषा को रोज़गार से जोड़ना चाहिए। हम सभी को हिंदी भाषा के विकास के लिए संकल्प लेना चाहिए। उन्होंने संस्थान की राजभाषा पत्रिका एवं हिंदी में किए जा रहे अन्य कार्यों की सराहना भी किया।

विशिष्ट अतिथि, डॉ. अनिल रस्तोगी ने अपने संबोधन में कहा कि हिंदी भाषा केवल भारत में ही नहीं अपितु अनेक देशों में बोली जाती है। उन्होंने भारत सरकार की विभिन्न हिंदी प्रोत्साहन योजनाओं तथा हिंदी भाषा में कार्य करने हेतु उपलब्ध डिजिटल टूल्स पर विस्तृत प्रकाश डालते हुए कहा कि हमें अपनी भाषा को बढ़ावा देने के लिए और गंभीर प्रयास करने चाहिए, हिंदी में सोचें, हिंदी में लिखें और हिंदी में ही बोलें। 

समारोह की अध्यक्षता संस्थान के निदेशक, प्रोफेसर आलोक धावन ने किया। उन्होंने अपने अध्यक्षीय संबोधन में कहा कि विज्ञान को आगे ले जाने हेतु भाषा एक सशक्त माध्यम है। किसी देश की उन्नति उसकी भाषा और संस्कृति से होती है। हिंदी भाषा बहुत समृद्ध भाषा है, इसका शब्द भंडार बहुत विशाल है, वैज्ञानिक और तकनीकी कार्य इसमें आसानी से किए जा सकते हैं। हमारा संस्थान इसमें अग्रसर है, अनेक शोध पत्र, वैज्ञानिक लेख हिंदी में लिखे जा रहे हैं। वर्ष 2016 में हिंदी में राष्ट्रीय वैज्ञानिक संगोष्ठी का सफलता पूर्वक आयोजन किया गया था और इस वर्ष 11–13 अक्टूबर, 2017 को अंतरराष्ट्रीय वैज्ञानिक संगोष्ठी होने जा रही है। हिंदी सप्ताह के दौरान हमें विचार करना चाहिए कि कैसे हम अपनी राजभाषा हिंदी को और आगे ले जा सकते हैं और पूरे वर्ष कैसे अधिक से अधिक इसका प्रयोग कर सकते हैं। हम अपनी राजभाषा को कैसे आगे ले जाएं, यह सोच हम सभी के अंदर होनी चाहिए। 

संस्थान के प्रशासन नियंत्रक, श्री अनिल कुमार ने बताया कि हिंदी सप्ताह के दौरान अनेक प्रतियोगिताओं का आयोजन किया जाता है। इसमें वैज्ञानिक, तकनीकी एवं प्रशासनिक अधिकारी/कर्मचारी/शोध-छात्र बढ़-चढ़कर भाग लेते है। समारोह के अंत में उन्होंने धन्यवाद ज्ञापन प्रस्तुत किया। समारोह का संचालन श्री चंद्र मोहन तिवारी, हिंदी अधिकारी, सीएसआईआर-आईआईटीआर ने किया ।

The Hon'ble Home Minister, Government of India, Shri Rajnath Singh ji released the latest issue of the "Vish Vigyaan Sandesh" on August 20, 2017.  Professor Alok  Dhawan, Director, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research presented the Raj Bhasha magazine entitled  "Vish Vigyaan Sandesh" to the Hon’ble Home Minister on this occasion. After the release, the Hon'ble Home Minister said that this magazine would be useful for the public. He also said that the magazine has included articles on various topics such as environmental pollution, air pollution, plastic pollution and food articles which are useful for the common man. The Hon'ble Home Minister congratulated all the members of the editorial team, including the Director for its publication. It is noteworthy that the last three issues of the journal have received the first prize of the Raj Bhasha Patrika from Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Official Language. Professor Dhawan presented other Hindi publications of the Institute such as the  Annual Report, Environmental and Human Health-related publications, which the Hon’ble Home Minister appreciated and said that this is a simple and straightforward way to make the common man aware of such important issues. He also congratulated the scientists for their effort in bringing out such publications in Hindi, which will act as a source of inspiration for other organizations.

‘EMERGE 2017’, an initiative by CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow successfully began on 18th July, 2017. This is a unique opportunity for the Undergraduate students to enrich theoretical as well as practical knowledge in the areas of Molecular Biology, Nanotechnology, Advanced Microscopy and Bioinformatics. EMERGE 2017 thematic S&T workshops commenced with welcoming the undergraduate students participating in this three-day hands-on workshop (18-20, July 2017) by Dr Parthasarathi Ramakrishnan, Coordinator. The event was inaugurated by Dr Poonam Kakkar, Chief Scientist, Dr. Kar Chowdhuri, Chief Scientist, Dr Devendra Parmar, Chief Scientist and Chairmen, HR Cell, CSIR-IITR. The esteemed panel members encouraged the participants to pursue science with passion and innovate technologies to solve societal needs. All four workshops are running in parallel with expert guidance of CSIR-IITR scientists: Dr VP Sharma, Dr Raviram, Dr Raja Gopal, Dr Alok Pande, Dr Amit Kumar, Dr Vikas Srivastava, Dr Satyakam Patnaik, Dr Manoj Kumar, Dr Neeraj Kumar Satija, Dr Pradeep Kumar Sharma and technical team: Dr P Saxena,   Mr Puneet, Mr Jai  and Ms Nidhi Arjaria. Student participants are learning enthusiastically on various advanced tools and techniques currently used in the field of life science and nanotechnology research.

A perfect blend of science and technology marked the environment day celebrations at city based CSIR- Indian Institute of Toxicology Research. Welcoming the gathering, Director of the Institute, Prof. Alok Dhawan said, the Institute was privileged to host Padmashri Prof. D. Balasubramanian, Former Director, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad and Distinguished Scientist, L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad and Padmashri Dr. Nitya Anand, Former Director, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, reflecting Institute’s commitment towards converting fundamental science into tangible human benefit. Also present were former and serving scientists and staff of CSIR-IITR.

Go Green with alternative fuel resources to save environment, says Prof. Balasubramanian

Padmashri Prof. Balasubramanian, delivered the XXI Dr. C.R. Krishnamurti Memorial Oration on the occasion. Speaking on global warming, he highlighted the need to forego fossil fuels so that the future world can cherish the clean and green environment.  Dr. Balasubramanian said that it is high time to go green by using alternative energy sources such as solar energy, wind energy, tidal energy apart from bioelectricity generation from Microbial fuel cells. 

The function was presided over by Padmashri Dr. Nitya Anand Former Director, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow. He stated that the environment is the most sacred place facilitating the survival of life and hence needs to be conserved. He suggested that schools and colleges shall have a regular course in environmental science. He also requested everyone to pledge for implementing actions towards the safe environment.  

A report entitled “Assessment of Ambient Air Quality of Lucknow City during Pre-Monsoon, 2017: Findings of a Random Survey", prepared by Environmental Monitoring Division of the Institute was released on this occasion. Details of the report are available on the institute’s website.

CSIR–IITR conducted a painting competition for school students in two age groups, the prizes for which were distributed on the occasion. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks by Er A.H. Khan Principal Scientist, CSIR-IITR, and convener of the function.

CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research organized a one day workshop on “Be A Scientist” for school students from 8th standard to 12th standard on 18th May 2018. More than 130 students from 20 schools including Lucknow Public College, La Martiniere Girls' College, La Martiniere College boys, Loreto College, Wisdom Educational Academy, Lucknow city college, Unity College, Study Hall, Vidya Tree Modern world college, Kendriya vidyalaya Aliganj, AR Jaipuria School, St.Dominic Savio College, M.R. Jaipuria School Bansal Campus, City Montessori School, Sector-O, Delhi Public School, KVIIT Kanpur, ST. Clares Convent School, Christ Church College Lucknow attended the workshop. Dr Devendra Parmar, Chief Scientist welcomed the gathering and spoke about the programme CSIR Jigyasa initiatives for school kids on science outreach. Professor Dr Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR-IITR addressed the student scientists of the day with inspirational thoughts and motivation to pursue career in science and do translational research that will be beneficial to society. Dr R Parthasarathi, Coordinator of the event presented vote of thanks and acknowledged Indian National Science Academy, The National Academy of Sciences and UPAAS for sponsoring the event. Students and teachers from respective schools visited advanced imaging facility, computational toxicology facility, translational facility, food toxicity and adulteration and molecular biology facility and interacted with scientists and research scholars of CSIR-IITR. Students had hands on experience on DNA isolation, building and visualizing molecules and chemicals, detecting adulteration/ contamination in oil and electron microscopy.

A workshop on Synthesis, Characterization and Safety Assessment of Nanomaterials was inaugurated at the city based premier toxicology institute of the country, CSIR – Indian Institute of Toxicology Research today, March 22, 2017.

Dr Alok Pandey, Co-convener of the workshop welcomed the gathering and Dr D. Kar Chowdhuri, Chief Scientist, CSIR – Indian Institute of Toxicology Research and Chairman of the organizing committee apprised the guests and participants on the genesis of the workshop and the role the institute has played in advancing the science of nanotechnology. Delivering the inaugural address, Dr P. S. Chauhan, Former Head, Cell Biology Division, BARC, Mumbai emphasised the need for a focussed approach to evaluating nanomaterial safety, given their increasing use in various realms of human exposure. Professor Alok Dhawan, Director, CSIR – Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, while delivering his presidential remarks urged the participants to make the most of workshop by interacting with leading scientists of nanotechnology at the institute. The workshop schedule has been designed in a way have judicious mix of lectures and hands-on laboratory experimentation / demonstration covering topics of nanomaterial synthesis, characterization and safety using cutting edge technologies like electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering and various in-vitro and in-vivo assays.

Dr Satyakam Patnaik, Co-convener of the workshop, proposed the vote of thanks.