Bilal Bashir Bhat | Onlykashmir.in
Thiruvananthapuram: A 12-member delegation of Kashmiri journalists, on the concluding leg of their Kerala tour, felicitated by the Press Information Bureau, Srinagar, visited the CSIR National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology at Thiruvananthapuram, one of India’s premier multidisciplinary research institutions. The delegation was accorded a warm and professional reception by the institute’s leadership and scientific community.
The visit featured an extensive interactive session with senior scientists, led by CSIR NIIST Director Dr C Anandharamakrishna, who outlined the institute’s mandate, national relevance and contributions to cutting edge research across diverse scientific domains.
Emphasising the role of science driven innovation in addressing contemporary societal and industrial challenges, the Director highlighted CSIR NIIST’s work in translating laboratory research into scalable technologies with real world applications.
Dr. U.S. Hareesh, Chief Scientist and Head of the Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, delivered a detailed presentation showcasing the institute’s flagship research programmes, technological breakthroughs and industry collaborations. He also guided the delegation through advanced laboratories, offering first-hand exposure to ongoing research and pilot-scale innovations.
The journalists were comprehensively briefed on CSIR NIIST’s work in agro and food processing technologies, biosciences and bioengineering, chemical sciences, materials science, artificial intelligence driven research platforms and environmental technologies.
Particular interest was generated by the institute’s pioneering work on biodegradable polylactic acid materials, sustainable coir-based composites and green alternatives aimed at reducing dependence on conventional plastics.
Scientists explained how these innovations align with national priorities such as sustainability, circular economy, climate resilience, and value addition to agricultural and natural resources.
The delegation was also informed about CSIR NIIST’s collaborations with industry, startups and government agencies, as well as its role in nurturing technology-based entrepreneurship.
The interaction concluded with an in-depth question and answer session, during which journalists sought insights into technology transfer, commercialization pathways and the potential applicability of these innovations in Jammu and Kashmir.
The visit provided the delegation with a nuanced understanding of how advanced scientific research can contribute to inclusive development, environmental sustainability and economic growth.
Pertinent to mention here, the press tour to Kerala led by Majid Pandit, Media & Communication Officer, PIB Srinagar, is part ofa the media outreach programme, aimed at providing journalists from Srinagar with firsthand exposure to key Central Government institutions, research ecosystems, and national development initiatives.
