Workshop Report on INNOVATING INDIA

Report on INNOVATING INDIA  A National Workshop 25-26 Nov 2013 Jointly organised by NATIONAL  INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (NIT), SILCHAR and CSIR - NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT STUDIES (CSIR-NISTADS), NEW DELHI Under TEQIP II Knowledge Partner

WORKSHOP COORDINATORS
Dr. Kishor Chandra Satpathy Coordinator, ETH & BARC-Akruti Project & Librarian National Institute of Technology (Institute of National Importance) Silchar-788010, Assam, India Email: Ksatpathy@gmail.com	Dr. Sujit Bhattacharya Professor AcSIR| Academy of Scientific Research & Innovation Senior Principal Scientist (NISTADS) C.S.I.R. National Institute of Science, Technology and Development Studies Pusa Gate, New Delhi-110012

The two-day workshop on the theme “Innovating India” was held at NIT Silchar during 25-26 November,2013.The workshop saw active participation of subject experts, academicians, distinguished speakers, researchers and students from various institutes, universities, colleges in India besides the NIT fraternity. The web-site of the workshop was a reflection of the interest this wokshop generated among scholars and students from India and Abroad. The workshop programme covered 5 technical sessions which included eleven key note lectures, twelve paper presentations, exhibition of innovative models/design by school students, besides a cultural evening. A total of 175 persons attended the workshop.

          The workshop delibeated upon the determinants that creates capacity for innovation, barriers that impede the innovation process ,and how the inclusiveness/inclusion in the innovation can be approached. The presentations and discussions in the workshop had a major slant toewards the innovative activity in North-East and how many of the informal activities can be institutionalsied.

INAUGURAL SESSION

The workshop started with a Inaugural session presided over by Prof N V Deshpande, Director, NIT Silchar. Prof P Banerjee, Director, CSIR-NISTADS, New Delhi and Prof. Gautam Sinha, Director, IIM Kashipur, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and Guest of Honour respectively. Prof Deshpande welcomed the  participants, and distinguished speakers and students to the institute and workshop.  In  his brief welcome address he highlighted the various activites NIT-Silchar has taken to bring about a change in the intsutute academic environment and has developed linkages with major institutes in India and abroad.  He said that NIT-Silchar is striving to become one of the leading engineering institute in the country and is already emerging as a focal institute in the North-East. He highlighted how different initiatives have been taken to motivate and provide oportunities to the students to explore and experiment challanging problems and create innovative solutions. He felt that this joint workshop with CSIR-NISTADS will provide further opportunities to the Institute to participate in the country’s innovation efforts.

          The welcome address was delivered by Prof F A Talukdar who particularly highlighted how this institute has taken up important national projects, linked up with major institutes and have been continuiously engaging with the various stakeholders (MSME, artisens, etc) in the North-East. Dr Banerjee, Director CSIR-NISTADS expressed his happiness  that this joint workshop in this important theme is being held with one of the leading institute in North-East. He highlighted how the new approach of the Indian government is on Inclusive Innovation and thus in this context North-East is an ideal setting as it has rich potentiality and many of the innovative practices in this region requires to be instituionalised.  He felt that this workshop would be the starting point to forge patnership with NIT-Silchar. He also welcomed the participation of IIM-Kashipur.  Prof Sinha, Director IIM-Kashipur expressed his happiness that his institute is knowledge partner of this workshop. He felt that the three instiutes together can share their expertise and translate many of the issues raised in this workshop into more actionable goals. Dr Sujit Bhattacharya, Joint Coordinator from CSIR-NISTADS, spoke about the workshop and its objective. Prof. M Ali Ahmed, Coordinator TEQIPII highlighted the role of TEQIP II.  Dr Kishore Sathpathy,  Joint Coorinator from NIT-Silchar welcomed the participants to the institute.

          The workshop was inaugurated by lighting of the lamps by the dignitaries present. To mark the occasion, the Souvenir of the workshop was released by the dignitaries. The Inaugural session included a key note address delivered by Prof Sinha, reproduced herebelow

KEY NOTE ADDRESS

Innovation and Sustainable Development – By Prof. Gautam Sinha, Director, IIM Kashipur

Ladies & Gentlemen,

While we are eagerly looking forward to capitalize on our demographic dividend, we have to remember the sufferings of our people who fall on the wrong side of the steep economic equality. We must express our gratitude to members of our academia, young scholars, farmers, teachers, scientists, workers and the millions of our countrymen who are toiling tirelessly for making their value addition to our progress and bridge that widening economic gap through various innovative processes, approaches and initiatives in all spheres of life.

          In the early hours of the 15th of August, 1947, when our nation had just become Independent, our first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru spoke to the nation and asked us all one important question on the very first day we became a free country: "Are we brave enough and wise enough to grasp this opportunity and accept the challenge of the future?"

          Today,  we must ask ourselves that same question. Are we ready to face the challenge of the future? Are we brave enough, to do so, and wise enough, in doing so? Can we rediscover the ideas and ideals that shaped our freedom struggle, and use them to take our country forward into the future? Are we willing to show the courage and the wisdom that our freedom fighters wanted us to show in building a new India in a new world?

          The going has never been as tough for India in the past as it is now. Our economy has been growing at an unimpressive pace of over the last few years. Such slow growth over three successive years is a matter of concern for all of us, especially those closely associated with the industry. We need to re-strategize our goals, activities and plans to bringing that re-assuring confidence in our industry in being able to take on the challenge of the rest of the world.  

          Against this otherwise anxious environment, I still see India is certainly on the march. Yet, we have miles to go before we can truly say that we have made our tryst with destiny. Sixty years ago, Panditji told us that the two challenges before a free India was to end the ancient scourge of poverty, ignorance and disease and end the inequality of opportunity. India has marched a great distance forward in these sixty years, but the challenge of banishing poverty remains with us. We have yet to banish hunger from our land. We have yet to eradicate illiteracy. We have yet to ensure that every Indian enjoys good health.

          Even as we move forward rapidly, to claim our rightful place in the comity of nations, I see that there are vast segments of our people who are untouched by modernization; who continue to do back-breaking labour; who continue to suffer from iniquitous social orders. I see that our farmers in many parts are in a crisis, not managing to eke out a decent living from their land. The agricultural crisis that is forcing them to take the desperate step of committing suicide needs to be resolved. At premier institutes like IIMs and NITs funded by the citizens of this country, perhaps we have a larger responsibility to think about how we can provide a decent livelihood to our farmers?

When we see large development projects coming up, while one rejoices at the progress that is being made, one worries for those who are displaced, for those who have lost their land and livelihood. When one sees our cities growing rapidly, one sees visible progress but at the same time, one worries for the large number of people who live in their slums. When our industry and services compete successfully across the globe, we celebrate our success in global markets; but at the same time, we are buffeted by the same global forces when oil prices go up because of factors beyond our control. Globalization certainly has its benefits; but it can also hurt the common man. We have to resolve once again that “sustainable development” will be the cornerstone of our academic career as well as professional life wherever we are.

          The challenge for us as a nation is to address this duality - to ensure that while we keep the wheels of progress moving rapidly forward, no section of society and no part of the country is left behind; to ensure that growth generates the necessary wealth which can then finance the welfare of marginalized groups; to ensure that growth generates employment and a bright future for our youth.

          In the past two years, at IIM Kashipur, it has been our endeavor to address these concerns. We have taken many steps to chart a way to encourage ‘innovation’ among our students and research plans, and create a visible distinction in our curriculum. Starting with a new Core Course this year on Society, Business & Management, to train our graduates to leverage ‘innovative ideas’ to tackle country’s widespread poverty and degradation – a situation that cannot be addressed by the government alone. In coming years IIM Kashipur is planning to lead new programmes on sustainable development that are built on power of innovation and to also get involved in more effective management of developmental in the country.

          With these words, I wish you all fruiteful deliberations in the coming sessions of the workshop. Thank you very much.

         

Titles of Key Note Lectures delivered by Eminent Subject Experts

1.     Grassroot Innovations in Rural India - Prof Gautam Sinha, Director, IIM-Kashipur.

2.    Thinking About Innovation for the North-East India - Prof P Banerjee, Director, CSIR-NISTADS.

3.    Innovation Chain & Educational Institutions: Policy & Strategy Dimensions - Prof. Ashok Jain, Vice President (Academic & Research), EMPI  Business School, New Delhi.

4.    Crucial Factors In Technology Transfer From Government Research Institutions To Private Sector Industry: Findings From Questionnaire Survey - Yogesh, Asscoiate Professor AcSIR & Principal Scientist NISTADS.

5.    Commercialization of Public R&D - Dr. Kavita Mehra, Chief Scientist, NISTADS.

6.    Innovating - The How Of It! - Dr S P Parashar, Managing Partner and Principal Consultant, TACM Management Education Consulting, LLP & Former Director, IIM indore.

7.    Innovation From The Grassroots And Intellectual Property Rights: Leveraging Traditional Knowledge From India - Dr K M Baharul Islam, Chair, Planning & Development, IIM Kashipur.

8.    Innovations In Health Care Services And Health Education In NE India - Dr. Mir Alam Siddique, SMC, Guwahati.

9.    Global Initiatives In Science, Technology And Innovation Towards Economic Prosperity Of Nations: An Analysis - Dr. Prabir G. Dastidar, Scientist and Director, Ministry of Earth Sciences, New Delhi.

10.  Emerging Technologies And New Players: A Case Study Of Emergence Of India In The Nanotechnology Race - Prof. Sujit Bhattacharya, Prof  AcSIR & Senior Principal Scientist CSIR-NISTADS, New Delhi.

HIGHLIGHTS OF TECHNICAL SESSIONS

DAY-1 (TECHNICAL SESSION-I)

Moderator: Prof Sujit Bhattacharyya, Sr Principal Scientist, CSIR-NISTADS

Rapporteur: Dr M K Sinha and Miss I. Ilika Zhimo

The session had 4 key note lectures. The session started with the brief introduction of the speakers, by Prof. Sujit Bhattacharya.

1^st Key Note Lecture by Prof P Banerjee, Director, CSIR-NISTADS, New Delhi

Title: Thinking about Innovation for the North East India.

Dr Banerjee started his keyonote address by highlighting how innovation can be viewed from different perspectives. This analytical understanding of innovation provides the framework within which the discussion on innovation can be contextualised. His presentation then focussed on the innovation potentiality of the North-East. He also highlighted some of the innovative applications that have come from exploting the  rich natural resources of this region. He mentioned the example of bamboo and cane which are abundantly available in this region and from which we find many novel  manufactured items created by artisans of this region.

          As these resources are available in plenty, he emphasized the value of bamboo and cane which are extensively used for local needs of the society. While speaking about the process of creating Innovations for North-Easst India, he explained the subject within two broad domains. Prof. Banerjee discussed about creating innovation by identifying something unique and doing unique things in unique ways. In this regard he mentioned the process of innovating and said that one should innovate keeping in mind the available local resources which are unique for the North-East region. So innovation for North East should be for the unique products and services suitable for the local needs of the society, he opined.

          The other aspect he mentioned was on improving trade related issues in which he emphasized for creating new branding strategies for the products and services created in the system. He further stressed for changing the inter-relationships in the innovation system by facing challenges to compete with an existing supremacy. In this regard, he sought to encourage a challenge against the global products and services and thereby gain competency in the relevant sector.

Chairman’s Remarks: Prof Bhattacharya highly commended on the issues raised by the speaker. He felt that this presentation has set the stage for the workshop. It has drawn attention to many important issues  that the workshop needs to deliberate.

2^nd Key Note Lecture by Prof Ashok Jain, Former Director, CSIR-NISTADS, New Delhi

Title: Innovation Chain & Educational Institutions: Policy & Strategy Dimensions

Prof Ashok Jain discussed Innovation as something which should bring  change in the country/region ecosystem and is, thus, the crux of the whole subject matter. Prof Jain presented progression of the technological development and innovation since 1960s around the world wherein he emphasized that Innovation needs to have technical change, scientific research and the ability to diffuse in the market.

          He stressed that Innovation has no benefit if its not put into practice. Prof Jain also gave much stress on emergent innovations and said that innovations need to be developed at a low cost and should work its way into the global market at low costs. Speaking about innovations for educational institutions, Prof Jain discussed local, sponsored and grass-root innovations. He highlighted the importance of getting local and sponsored innovative projects by such institutes and working with combined efforts of both. 

          Prof Jain encouraged the students to focus on possible emergent innovations. For the benefit of students, Prof Jain mentioned some inspiring books for reading such as ‘I have a dream’ by Rashmi Bansal and ‘Democratizing Innovation’ by Eric Von Hippel.

Chairman’s Remarks: Prof Bhattacharyya said that the presentation has enhanced one’s perspective about the whole idea of innovation. He said that the exposition provided by Prof Jain on emergent innovations will be very useful to the community particularly to the students in this worksjhop.

3^rd Key Note Lecture by Dr Kavita Mehra, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NISTADS, New Delhi

Title: Commercialization of R&D

Delivering her talk, Dr Kavita Mehra said that in R&D organisations/Institutes, commercialization of the technologies or processes should be considered as important as its development otherwise it does not serve the needs of the society/industry. Dr Kavita briefed the S&T scenario in India wherein she informed that at present there are 12 major departments under different ministries which are involved in funding R&D activities, such as DST, DBT, DAE, etc.

          Dr Kavita further informed that over the years, there has been a significant increase in fund allocation to R&D and the government aims to contribute to GDP with at least 2%.

          Dr Kavita emphasized on creating interface between R&D organisations and Industries for facilitating commercialization and cited some departments such as NRDC, BCIL, etc., which are actively involved in commercializing technologies, processes, etc., developed by R&D organisations. She presented a case study undertaken by CSIR-NISTADS on NRDC which has been a long standing agency of CSIR for commercializing its technologies. The mechanism she informed is that, CSIR assigns technologies to NRDC which in turn licenses them to the entrepreneurs, industries, firms, etc. She informed that during 1985-2012, CSIR assigned 743 processes/technologies to NRDC out of which 600 licenses have been issued to various parties spread across the country with period of licensing from 5 to 20 years on exclusive/non-exclusive basis and royalties earned from the licensing has been nil to 85 lakhs (max)/year. Dr Kavita also presented a case of the development of drug delivery system, Liposomal Amphotericin-B-FUNGISOME for treating system mycosis and Kala-azar by CSIR. Concluding her talk, Dr Kavita said that the entire process of R&D and its commercialization requires involvement of different individuals.

Chairman’s Remarks: Prof Bhattacharya said that the talk was truly informative and important in the present discussion on  commercialization of R&D.  The role of various mediating institutions in the country that help in the translation of R&D efforts was highlighted.  The knowledege of these institutions will be very important to the participants as they will be better informed now about how they can translate their R&D efforts.

4^th Key Note Lecture by Mr Yogesh, Principal Scientist, CSIR-NISTADS, New Delhi

 Title: Crucial factors in Technology Transfer from Government Research Institutions to Private Sector Industry: Findings from Questionnaire survey.

Dr Yogesh, in his lecture, highlighted the vast S&T infrastructure facility existing in the country. He stressed that it is important to develop networking among the research institutions.  He mentioned that any research activity leads to knowledge creation in the form of papers, patents, technology, etc., which ultimately should benefit the society.

          He further highlighted various stages/phases of technology development to technology transfer and touched on important aspects which involve creation of concept/idea, research, testing/trials, etc. Dr Yogesh also discussed some pressing issues in technology transfer, especially those which act as barriers to technology transfer from Govt. R&D institutions to industries. He pointed out that issues such as lack of understanding in the needs of industry, lack of communication between R&D institutions and industry, difficulties in obtaining raw material, difficulties in performance evaluation mechanisms between the institutions and industry are some which needs to be seriously addressed to so as to be able to increase the technology transfer activities between the two sectors.

          Dr yogesh further presented a survey undertaken in his analysis in which 2000 (approx) questionnaires were distributed to scientists and based on that he said that there should be strengthening of communication and networking among the R&D institutions and the industries.

Chairman’s Remarks: Prof Bhattacharyya said that the speaker touched on the crucial issues which, once again find relevance to the development of technologies which should be based on the needs of the industry and the society. Prof Bhattacharyya commended on the survey undertaken and streesed that such evidence based analysis provides a more informed input to decision making.

DAY-1 (TECHNICAL SESSION-II)

Chairperson: Dr K M Baharul Islam, Chair, Planning & Development, IIM-Kashipur

Rapporteur: Mridul Dutta/Saumen Datta

The session had 4 paper presentations.

Paper 1: Innovations in the teachings & learning in Higher Educational institutions in India by Dr. Pranay Jyoti Goswami, Associate Professor, Department of Commerce, Assam University

Presenting his paper, Dr. Pranay Jyoti Goswami shared his experiences of audit  process in teaching.  He discussed the plight of the teachers working in rural areas. To overcome this he stressed on inclusive growth and challenges of development. He shared the information about India’s position in global development index, stressed on going global, bringing innovation and uniqueness.

He said that the Government of India is providing technology and ICT aids for Higher Education, but it is not enough. He said that the quality of the teachers need to be improved through innovation. Innovation in pedagogy can help deliver quality education. His paper stressed on proposing Government of India to bring radicalization of education through innovation.

Paper 2: Gender Analysis of Internet use pattern among the rural Muslim students in Higher Educational Institutions of Silchar Town of Cachar District, by Ayesha Afsana, Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of Sociology, Assam University, Silchar.

Ms. Afsana cited and discussed some important aspects of similar studies made elsewhere which had given rich insight to contextualise this study. Her research finds that the majority of the sampled students are from degree programs of the colleges of Silchar are from higher caste with majority of them Bengali speaking.  Further, majority of them are   Bengali   male  students,  are  familiar with internet which helps them to download teaching and learning materials from internet. On an average she fould that internet usage is about 2 hours. Among girls, the usage of internet is encouraged by sibling behaviour. Her paper concluded with recommendation to the policy makers for bringing programs to help learn internet as a teaching tool among students. This she felt would augment the resources of students. Particular attention in this regard should be paid to female students. Further, she argued for greater attention for Muslim students and especially among them female students as their problem is most actute.

Paper 3: Recent Developments in Traditional Knowledge Protection vis-à-vis the case study of Turmeric Patent by Miss I. Ilika Zhimo, Jr Scientist, CSIR-NEIST, Jorhat

Ms. Zhimo highlighted the importance of traditional knowledge (TK) and its protection in the wake of growing incidents of biopiracy cases. She said that TK is the wealth of those indigenous/local communities who developed and preserved the knowledge since time immemorial and which represents their cultural, traditional and ethnical identities.

          Ms Zhimo said that besides the fact that Turmeric Patent being a landmark case in the history of IPR, it was important to understand why the conflict occurred, the factors responsible for it and also the developments that have taken place post the landmark case. She further briefed the case study of the Turmeric patent and said that issues such as lack of awareness of USPTO patent examiners about TK of India, unavailability of documented TK as prior art, non-recognition of TK in patent system, etc., were some reasons which were crucial in the patent dispute.

          She further detailed various developments undertaken at international and national level for recognition and protection of TK of the developing countries. Some of the initiatives explained by the speaker were Intergovernmental Committee on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Folklore (IGC) of WIPO, UN Declaration for the rights of Indigenous peoples, Doha Declaration by World Trade Organisation, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), etc., whereas at the national level, the TKDL project of CSIR, TK protection draft bill, Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act and National Biodiversity Act were discussed in the presentation. Concluding her lecture, the speaker suggested some possible measures which can be taken up at various levels to protect and recognize TK such as increased awareness, more manpower, increased accessibility of TKDL to patent offices, to understand and protect TK by all individuals, etc.

Paper 4: A simple, mild and efficient solid phase Henry Reaction under solvent free condition by Dr. Lalthazuala Rokhum, Dept of Chemistry, NIT, Silchar

Dr. Rokhum gave a technical overview of solid phase synthesis and problems with traditional phase synthesis, the purification process and wastage of solvents. Dr. Rokhum discussed the attractive features of solid phase synthesis such as suitable for environmental issues for disposal, takes less time and is among the least wastage process.

He discussed its limitation which is hydrophobic and that itself cam be its strength for its water repellent properties. His paper emphasized that in present day requirement, it is more important as to how a compound is formed rather that what compound is formed. Dr. Rokhum said that with solid phase synthesis, a catalyst can be used upto 5 times with 64% efficiency.

Chairpeson Remarks:  Dr K M Baharul Islam drawing from his own expericnes highlighted the importance of the various presentations. Dr Islam appreciated  Dr  Goswami for his insightful thoughts on the partinant issue of  enhancing teachers capacity through innovative methods. Commenting on Ms. Afsana’s talk he said that it becomes very difficult for students to get proper guidence and resource materials in major parts of North-East. Her study is thus very important as it points out to a very viable and rich option for augmeenting the students academic resource thorugh internet. Traditional knowledge  in which India has a rich repository has been facing intellectual infringement by western economies.  Dr Islam highlighted how this has been a matter of great concern in the North-east.  Keeping this in perspective, he appreciateed the excellent presentation made by Ms. Ilika highlighting the recent developments in the protection of traditional knowledge by India. Dr Islam appreciated  Dr Rokhum for changing the contours of the present debate by giving a scieentific exposition of the dynamics of water filteration and waste disposal.

DAY-1 (TECHNICAL SESSION-III

Chairperson: Prof Sujit Bhattacharya, CSIR-NISTADS, New Delhi.

Rapporteur: Miss.I. Ilika Zhimo

The session had 3 Key Note Lectures by eminent experts.

1^st Key Note Lecture by Dr S P Parashar, Managing Partner and Principal Consultant, TACM Management Education Consulting, LLP (Former Director, IIM Indore)

Title: Innovating – The How of it!

Speaking about innovation and how innovation can be understood and made, Dr Parashar defined the subject as something which is different from discovery and invention. Dr Parashar discussed on innovating which is socially useful and involves implementation of new ideas. Innovating, which will be valued by the society, strengthening networking and incentivising the young people, are some effective strategies as mentioned by Dr Parashar.

          He further cited some examples which changed the lives of people such as the Silicon valley and stressed on keeping oneself updated about the developments taking place in the world. Encouraging the young innovators he further emphasized on believing in what they do and being honest to all their actions.

Chairman’s Remarks: Prof Bhattacharya said that innovation is important but knowing the method of doing it is equally important, considering the ethical and unethical means which one should understand and the same has been very lucidly explained by the speaker.

2^nd Key Note Lecture by Dr K M Baharul Islam, Chair, P&D, IIM Kashipur

Title: Innovation from the Grassroots and Intellectual Property Rights: Leveraging Traditional Knowledge from India.

Dr. Islam Highlighted that Knowledge is power in today’s information society and intellectual property rights (IPR) attain a significant role in the economics of this society. It is usually presumed that the prevailing international concepts of IPR laws do not help indigenous communities in safeguarding their traditional knowledge. The basic research questions are: a. Can companies obtain patents based on indigenous knowledge? If they do, how does the indigenous community seek protection of its traditional knowledge under contemporary intellectual property rights laws?, and b. Are patents useful to local communities? Can indigenous knowledge be protected through patents and other IPR provisions?

          Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) values the innovative mind and individual proprietary right over a new product. Traditional Knowledge (TK), on the other hand, values social ownership of that knowledge resource. Plants and genetic resources are considered as “a common heritage” of mankind that is to be preserved, freely available for use, and ultimately benefit the present and future generations.

          The IPR laws across the world have been criticised as too close to the American patent system that emphasises protection of innovation whereby companies can show some ‘inventive steps’ in a product or process to get patent protection on items that originates from TK. In showing this innovation, the companies often ignore ‘prior art’ that exists elsewhere. Even documented TK is not recognised if not available in a tangible form of a publication. Indian victory in the Turmeric and Basmati patent re-examination cases in USPTO and the Neem case at the EPO encourages others to challenge unfair patents on TK-based products. Patents, however, if successfully obtained for the TK, might prove useful and financially beneficial to the communities.

          The conflict between IPR and TK is thus inherent in the nature of TK as a collective wealth of the communities as against the individual ownership of a product or a process based on such common knowledge. Another major inherent conflict between IPR regimes and TK lies in the monetary constraints as IPR protection that comes at a premium and too recurring every year. The conflict between IPR and TK has also brought to light the ways that are being adopted by countries like India not only to protect its own TK through national IPR systems, but also to put in place vigilance mechanisms against misappropriation of its TK by unscrupulous patentees. Moreover, other IPR mechanisms like trade secrets, geographical indications, trade marks, or sui generis rights of indigenous people can also come to the rescue of TK. Time has come to tread a collaborative middle ground whereby technological advances of the north and centuries of TK of the south join hand together in the broader interest of the human race on this earth.

Concluding Remarks: Prof Bhattacharya appreciated the deep insights given by Dr Islam in a topic of primary importance in the present debate on incluisve innovation.  Traditional knowledge and its relationship wwith intellectual property is not well understood which leads to ambiguity and impedes the rational basis for policy intervention. This presentation has given a grounding for understanding the complexities of this relationship and thus provides a frameowrk for future deliberations on this topic.

3^rd Key Note Lecture by Dr Mir Alam Siddique, SMC, Guwahati

Title: Innovations in healthcare services and health education in NE India

Dr Siddique in his talk deliberated on the contributions of healthcare systems for the welfare of human beings, the innovations in healthcare services and the developments taking place in various medical and healthcare services, particularly in the North East India. 

          Dr Siddique informed that over the years, the healthcare system has tremendously improved with various innovations which not only made it possible in the treatment procedure but also provided cost-effective remedies, improvement of health, reduce sufferings of the patients and enhancement of life expectancy. Few of the examples cited by him are the 108 emergency service, Tele-Radiology service, MRI, Balloon Angioplasty, Coronary bypass surgery, etc., which are available in the North East.  Dr Siddique further spoke about education system in Medicine and healthcare and said that a healthcare diploma in Medical and Rural Healthcare may be another innovative step in the system. An Eye specialist himself, Dr Siddique also discussed the developments and advanced eye surgeries available in North East and presented an audio-visual footage of the advanced cataract operation/cataract removal being done and further discussed his work in biomedical research and development particularly in Ophthalmology.

Chairman’s Remarks: Prof Bhattacharyya said that the presentation was truly informative and useful in the present context of affordable healthcare. The deliberation was immensely important and the contributions made by Dr Siddique in the biomedical sector is commendable which would further encourage the upcoming professionals.

An important feature of this workshop was the innovative models prepared by students from different schools. These models were working technology models based on fundamental principals of science. The models ranged from paddy cleaning mechines to renewable energy, showcasing the innovative abiliites of students. Prof Ashok Jain chaired the panel for juding the best working model. Glimses of the exhibition held (workng model demonstration) is given below.

Another feature of the workshop was the cultural fundtcion. School students of NIT-Silchar campus had prepared many interesting items guided by their teachers and parents for presenting during this workshop. The cultural items highlighteed the ricch cultural heritage of North-East and the promisng potential of these yound students. Some senior members also performed during the cultural programme.

DAY-2 (TECHNICAL SESSION-IV)

Chairperson: Yogesh Suman, Associate Professor AcSIR & Principal Scientist CSIR-NISTADS

Rapporteur: Dr. Sudhir Kumar Jena, Librarian, IIM Shillong.

The session IV had 8 paper presentations and was chaired by Dr. Yogesh Suman, Associate Professor AcSIR & Principal Scientist CSIR-NISTADS.

Out of eight papers, five papers exclusively devoted to Library and Information Science and remaining three papers exclusively for Management and Engineering.

First paper presented by Shri Saumen Datta, Sr. Librarian, TPSC, Agartala. His paper was a case study of development plan for Public Libraries of Tripura with special reference to Birchandra State Central Library. Shri Datta traced the history of public libraries in Tripura and suggested the State Govt. towards their modernization. 

Second paper ‘Elec-Bee Energy Meter’ presented by Shri Gunjesh Sharma, Dept. of Business Administration, Assam University, Silchar. In his presentation first of all he explained the title and about the Energy Meter and history of Innovation. He highlighted the following advantages of Elec-Bee Energy Meter:

1.     Reduces Human interference.

2.    Reduces Human error (caused during Billing)

3.    Reduce Power theft (by keeping proper track on electricity consumption)

4.    Can capture maximum/low voltage along with various parameters like, power factor, frequency, etc.

5.    Improve customer service.

Third paper presented by Shri Abhisekh Mishra, Dept. of Business Administration, Assam University, Silchar. He explained his title ‘Greed Education’ and suggested: go paperless, use internet for assignment and project work, use solar panels, avoid notebook and use laptop etc. 

Fourth paper ‘Geographical Indication for Gamosa: Opportunities and Challenges’ presented by Shri Mridul Dutta, Asst. Prof. Dept. of Business Administration, Tezpur University, Tezpur. After describing Gamosa he highlited the ways of life of Gamosa  and  its frame work, geographical indication, agriculture, manufacturing, natural goods, etc.

In a jointly written paper, ‘Social Media for Students: Opportunities for Library and Information Centers by Ms. Sucheta Bhattacharjee, Research Scholar & Dr. Manoj Kumar Sinha, Associate Professor and Head, DLIS, Assam University, Silchar,  the authors highlighted what makes social media special, the goals of social networking, characteristics of social media, information flow in new libraries, role and opportunities for libraries and challenges.

In a jointly written paper,  ‘Application of Mobile Technology Based Library Services Within Various Library of Northeast, India’  presented by Mr. Sudip Bhattacharjee, Guest Faculty, DLIS, Assam University, Silchar,  this paper was a case study in which the authors highlighted the recent trends and application of mobile technology in library services, with special reference to North-East India, and catalogue search through mobile.

Mrs. Krishnamati Singha, NIT Silchar, in her ‘Social Audit with Web 2.0: A Key’ paper on factor for successful e-Governance  highlighted as to what is e-governance and its various types with an emphasis on the necessity of social audit for good governance,  with an over view of the web 2.0 technologies.

The last of paper of day two session IV presented by Dr. Kishor Chandra Satpathy, Librarian, NIT Silchar,  on ‘Best/Innovative Practices in Libraries & Information Centers: A case study of NIT Silchar’,  highlighted the history & present status of the central library of NIT Silchar and emphasized the services, its mission, vision and best & innovative practices and future plan of Central Library NIT, Silchar.

Concluding Remarks Dr Yogesh Suman, Charperson of this session drew attention to the diverse topics presented in this session. He also underscored the young researchers who presnted their work in this session. Dr Yogesh felt that the workshop has very rightly given opportunity for yound scholarss to present their work. Also, it is inportant that inniovation debate should not be restrictive, partcularly stressing how libaries/information centers are important stakeholders in the inovation  process which has been so well articulateed by Dr Sathpathy in his presentation.

DAY-2 (TECHNICAL SESSION-V)

Chairperson: Dr. Kavita Mehra, Chief Scientist CSIR-NISTADS, New Delhi

Rapporteur:   Miss I. Ilika Zhimo

The session had 2 Key Note Lectures delivered by eminent experts.

 1^st Key Note Lecture by Dr Prabir G Dastidar, Scientist and Director, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India, New Delhi

Title: Global Initiatives in Science, Technology and Innovation Towards Economic Prosperity of Nations: an Analysis

Delivering his lecture Dr Dastidar said that Innovation is not proportional to the financial investment in R&D. He also said that innovation may not be always high technology. Giving an example, he mentioned the statement of Steve Jobs who said that when Apple came with MAC, IBM was spending 100 times more money on R&D.

          Dr Dastidar further displayed the compiled data on rich history of knowledge economy in the sub-continent. Healso spoke in detail about the legend of Nalanda University wherein he stressed that innovation started from early days of civilization. He said that innovation is important for India as it is one of the largest markets in the world. He also informed that in the 12th Five Year Plan of the Ministry, much stress has been given for faster and sustainable growth of the nation. Dr Dastidar further discussed the success story of Biocon the leading biotech firm in India. He also discussed the research & innovation centric growth of few countries such as Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, etc., in which he highlighted the per capita expenditure and per capita GDP. He also discussed the scope of higher education system in the Indian innovation system and urged for improving the quality of education.

          Dr Dastidar also discussed the case studies of some innovative rich countries in Europe and further informed about various platforms given by Govt. of India for funding innovative projects such as Indo-EU S&T Platform.

Chairman’s Remarks: Dr Kavita remarked that the deliberation given by Dr Dastidar was truly informative and diversified wherein many important issues were emphasized in a single lecture. The deliberation on knowledge and innovation scenario of the countries and the case studies alongwith its findings were very important, she pointed out.

2^nd Key Note Lecture by Prof. Sujit Bhattacharya, Sr Principal Scientist, CSIR-NISTADS

Title: Emerging Technologies and New Initiatives: A Case Study of Emergence of India in the Nanotechnology Race.

Prof Bhattacharya highlighted the contours of emerging technologies and their potentiality to create new industries. The complex inter-relationship between science-technology- innovation comes into play for developing noval applications in emerging technologies. Emerging technologies such as Synthetic Biology, Biotechnology, Advanced Materials, ICT, Nanotechnology are some of the key technologies that are shaping the global economy. The important fact is that these technologies provide novel solutions to many problems of pressing developmental concerns.  

Keeping techno-economic potential of emerging technologies in context, Prof Bhattacharya stressed upon the importance of assessing India’s capacity and progression in emerging technologies. The presentation drew attention to nanotechnology; highlighling some interesting characteristics and promises of this field.  Keeping in view many young participants, the presentation highlighted some novel applications of this technology, Indian researchers contributions in this field, and new opportunties that are coming up in India for research in this field. 

Chairman’s Remarks: Dr Kavita remarked that the deliberation has touched on the important subject matter on Nanotechnology which has been very lucidly delivered by the speaker. Dr Kavita also commended on the notable examples given by the speaker.

VALEDICTORY SESSION

The two-day workshop concluded with a valedictory session presided over by Prof N V Deshpande, Director, NIT Silchar, in which Prof Ashok Jain, Former Director, CSIR-NISTADS, New Delhi, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Dr Kishore Sathpathy, joint coordinator of this workhop gave a broad overview of the lessons that has been learnt from the workshop. He placed this in the context of various initiatives undertaken by NIT-Silchar. Dr Sujit Bhattacharya, Joint Coordinator from CSIR-NISTADS thanked the excellent arrangements made by NIT-Silchar, with special thanks to Director NIT-Silchar and Dr Kishore Sathpathy and his team.  Dr Prabir Dastidar, Scientist and Director, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India, New Delhi, gave his remarks on the occasion while Dr N V Deshpande, Director, NIT-Silchar,  and Prof P Banerjee, Director, CSIR-NISTADS, gave their concluding remarks. The participants gave their feedback about the programme. Also, on the occasion, results were declared and the winners were awarded for best model exhibition on the occasion, which included first, second and third prizes for the models displayed. All together, 20 Students participated in the exhibition. The programme concluded with Vote of thanks offered by Dr. Kishor Satpathy.