nanotechnology developments in india – a status report

April 2009

Nanotechnology developments in India – a

status report

Supported by

The International Development Research Centre, Canada

[Part of project: Capability, Governance and Nanotechnology Developments:

a focus on India]

Project Report No. 2006ST21: D5

w w w . te r i i n . o r g The Energy and Resources Institute

© The Energy and Resources Institute 2009

Study team

Manish Anand

Malini Balakrishnan

Vidya Batra

Piyali Das

Ligia Noronha

Shilpanjali Sarma (Co-ordinator)

Nidhi Srivastava

Secretarial assistance

M K Bineesan

Suggested format for citation The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). 2009

Nanotechnology developments in India – a status report

TERI project: Capability, Governance, and Nanotechnology

Developments - a focus on India

New Delhi: The Energy and Resources Institute.

[Project Report No. 2006ST21: D5]

[Please do not cite without permission]

For more information Ms Shilpanjali Sarma

T E R I Tel. 2468 2100 or 2468 2111

Darbari Seth Block E-mail [email protected]

IHC Complex, Lodhi Road Fax 2468 2144 or 2468 2145 New Delhi – 110 003 Web www.teriin.org India India +91 • Delhi (0) 11

Table of Contents

Executive summary ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. i

Key players and programmes .....................................................................................................i

Addressing development needs through nanotechnology ...................................................... ii

Policy support to nanotechnology R&D ................................................................................... ii

Key emerging challenges.......................................................................................................... iii

Abbreviat ions .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . v

Introduct ion ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1

Nanoscience and technology: an overview .................................................................................... 1

Global context; reasons for developing country engagement ..................................................... 2

Predominant role of the public sector in nanotechnology in India............................................. 4

Aspects governing R&D capacity building in nanoscience and technology.................................7

Structure of the report ................................................................................................................... 9

CHAPTER 1 Nanotechnology deve lopments in India .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Key players involved ..................................................................................................................... 11

Government agencies ............................................................................................................... 11

Public sector R&D institutions ................................................................................................ 15

Industry.....................................................................................................................................19

Non-government organizations.............................................................................................. 20

Key government programmes ......................................................................................................21

Department of Science and Technology..................................................................................21

Department of Information Technology ................................................................................ 25

Others....................................................................................................................................... 26

Investments in nano science and technology ............................................................................. 26

CHAPTER 2 Nanotechnology and development issues in India .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Nanotechnology and Energy in India ..........................................................................................31

Challenges in the energy sector in India .................................................................................31

How nanotechnology can address these challenges .............................................................. 32

International developments.................................................................................................... 33

Nanotechnology R&D in the energy sector in India .............................................................. 34

Nanotechnology and water in India............................................................................................ 36

Challenges in the water sector in India .................................................................................. 36

How nanotechnology might address these challenges ...........................................................37

Nanotechnology R&D in the water sector in India................................................................ 38

Nanotechnology and agriculture in India....................................................................................41

Challenges in the agriculture sector in India ..........................................................................41

How nanotechnology might address these challenges ...........................................................41

International developments.................................................................................................... 42

Nanotechnology R&D in the agriculture sector in India....................................................... 43

Support for R&D that addresses national priorities and socio-economic development.......... 46

CHAPTER 3 Po licy support for nanotechnology in India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Grants for research and technology development ..................................................................... 52

Department of Science and Technology (DST)...................................................................... 52

Department of Biotechnology (DBT) ......................................................................................55

Department of Information Technology (DIT).......................................................................57

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).......................................................... 58

Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) .................................................................................... 60

Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) .................................................61

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)......................................................................... 62

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)................................................................. 62

Strengthening human resource and infrastructure ................................................................... 63

International collaborations........................................................................................................ 68

Initiatives and role of State Governments .................................................................................. 69

Karnataka................................................................................................................................. 69

Tamilnadu ................................................................................................................................ 70

Haryana..................................................................................................................................... 71

Key features of policy support ......................................................................................................72

Fundamental research..............................................................................................................72

Support for development of applications................................................................................73

Multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research ...................................................................76

Multiplicity and overlapping R&D focus.................................................................................77

CHAPTER 4 Challenges and opportunit ies for nanotechnology development .. 81

Expanding R&D infrastructure and access to scientific facilities...............................................81

Content of nanotechnology related postgraduate courses and development of a standard

curriculum .................................................................................................................................... 83

Research on potential EHS impacts and toxicological aspects of nanomaterials and nano

applications .................................................................................................................................. 85

Cross disciplinary research, PPPs and technology development .............................................. 88

Possible mechanisms for enabling large interdisciplinary research projects and technology

development ................................................................................................................................. 90

Overlap of R&D focus areas amongst diverse agencies engaged in supporting nanoscience and

technology R&D ........................................................................................................................... 90

Lack of coordination amongst agencies involved in nanoscience and technology................... 92

Possible way forward............................................................................................................... 93

Lack of information flow and building networks ....................................................................... 94

Development of a potential roadmap for nanoscience and technology.................................... 95

Overall Conclusions of the work . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Nanotechnology developments and policy support in India ................................................ 99

Challenges and opportunities ................................................................................................ 101

Annexure I ...................................................................................................................................103

Annexure II...................................................................................................................................111

Annexure III ................................................................................................................................120

Annexure IV.................................................................................................................................123

Annexure V ..................................................................................................................................124

List of Tables

Table 1.1 Distribution of existing “Centres of Excellence” across the various categories of R&D

institutes .......................................................................................................................... 17

Table 2.1 R&D in nanotechnology and energy in India.................................................................35

Table 2.2 R&D in nanotechnology and agriculture in India ........................................................ 45

Table 2.3 Distribution of DST sponsored nanotechnology related R&D projects across various

sectors .............................................................................................................................47

Table 2.4 Distribution of SERC sponsored nanotechnology related R&D projects across various

sectors ............................................................................................................................ 48

Table 2.5 Distribution of DBT sponsored nanotechnology related R&D projects across various

sectors ............................................................................................................................ 49

Table 2.6 Distribution of DIT, CSIR, DAE, DRDO, ICMR and MNRE sponsored

nanotechnology related R&D projects across various sectors .....................................51

Table 3.1 List of Joint Institute-Industry Projects under the Nano Mission .............................. 54

Table 3.2 Year-wise sanction of projects by DST under NSTI and NSTM...................................55

Table 3.3 Calls for proposals on nanotechnology by DBT ............................................................57

Table 3.4 Nanoscience and Nanotechnology related work under CSIR ..................................... 60

Table 3.5 List of projects by Department of Atomic Energy.........................................................61

Table 3.6 List of nanotechnology projects that have received financial aid from ICMR ........... 62

Table 3.7 List of post-graduates course in nanoscience and technology facilitated by DST...... 65

Table 3.8 Initiatives undertaken for human resource development and promotion under the

Nanoscience and Technology Initiative (NSTI)........................................................... 66

Table 3.9 List of initiatives taken during the NSTI and NSTM to upgrade infrastructure

facilitaties ........................................................................................................................67

Table 3.10 List of 21 technologies that have been transferred to Industry in India by Academic

institutes / R&D Labs ...................................................................................................75

Table 3.11 Nanosciecne and nanotechnology within overall R&D frameworks across

departments/ agencies ................................................................................................. 78

Table 4.1 List of projects supported by various agencies on issues of toxicity, environmental

and health implications of nanomaterials ................................................................... 86

Table 4.2 Depicting National Advisory Committee members for nanoscience and

nanotechnology ............................................................................................................. 96

List of Figures

Figure 1.1 Mapping of stakeholders in nanotechnology in India ...................................................12

Figure 1.2 Centre of excellence established in India in nanoscience and technology...................18

T E R I Report No. 2006ST21: D5

Executive summary

The present report is a part of an ongoing study on Capability,

Governance and Nanotechnology developments: a focus on

India. It provides a status overview with respect to key players,

government programmes, nanotechnology and development

issues in India, with special reference to agriculture and water.

An analysis of the policy support given to nanotechnology

development follows along with a discussion on challenges and

opportunities existing for nanotechnology development in

India.

Key players and programmes

Nanotechnology promises to deliver novel products and

processes or enhance the performance of existing ones across

sectors. They include interventions in a range of domains like

water, energy, health, agriculture and environment that could

enable solutions to several development related problems

especially in developing countries. Several industry related

sectors like pharmaceuticals, electronics, automobiles, textile,

chemicals and manufacturing sector, information technology

and communications as well as biotechnology appear poised to

gain from nanotechnology applications. The desire to harness

this potential has prompted global interest in nanotechnologies.

Developing countries in general have been restricted in their

ability to build S&T capability and engage in R&D in the manner

of developed nations.

The emergence of nanotechnology in India has witnessed the

engagement of a diverse set of players, each with their

respective agenda and role. Together they shape the trajectory

of nanotechnology in the national context. Since

nanotechnology in India is a public driven initiative, industry

participation is still at a nascent stage. Therefore, policy

agencies and R&D organisations are the key players in the

national context.

Amongst the government agencies, Department of Science and

Technology (DST) is the nodal department for organising,

coordinating and promoting S&T activities. It is at the helm of

the principal program, the Nanoscience and Technology

Mission (NSTM) established to make India a forerunner

nanoscience and technology. Beside DST, several other agencies

including the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research

(CSIR), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), agencies under

the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology,

Ministry of Family Health and Welfare, Ministry of Defence,

Ministry of New and Revewable Energy are engaged with

ii Nanotechnolgy policy environment and R&D in India


promotion of nanotechnology, especially in terms of R&D

activities. Public sector R&D institutions play an predominant

role in nanotechnology R&D. Research in nanoscience and

nanotechnology is being carried out in various academic and

scientific institutions. Foremost are the, ‘Centers of Excellence

(CoE) for Nanoscience and Technology’ established under the

NSTI by DST.

Besides, there are a few companies in India that are engaged in

research and product development on nanotechnology such as,

Cranes Software International Limited, Monad Nanotech,

Velbionanotech, Innovations Unified Technologies, Qtech

Nanosystems and Naga Nanotech India. Also, leading

companies like Reliance, Tata Group and Mahindra and

Mahindra, to name a few, are also making investments in this

emerging area.

Addressing development needs through nanotechnology Given the enabling nature of nanotechnology and ability to

develop along with existing technologies, it has the potential to

be utilised as a tool to address key development related

challenges in diverse sectors like energy, water agriculture,

health, environment etc. Enabling energy storage, production

and conversion within renewable energy frameworks has been

cited as the primary area where nanotechnology applications

might aid developing countries. Nanotechnology interventions

might be sought at specific junctures to improve quantity and

quality of water and wastewater treatment systems.

Enhancement of agricultural productivity has been identified as

the second most critical area of application of nanotechnology

for attaining the millennium development goals.

The Government in India has recognized the importance of

research and development in nanotechnology in key areas as

evident from public investments. Other than the development

needs mentioned above, health has been emerging as an

important area, which has been able to attract maximum

attention from researchers, government and the industry.

Policy support to nanotechnology R&D Policy support from the government for building S&T capacity

for R&D take three, sometimes overlapping routes -

� Allocation of funds to nanoscience and technology

development

� Establishment of institutions and centres for R&D

� Support to fundamental, applied research and technology

development

� Strengthening human resources and infrastructure

capacities

� Forging international collaborations

iii Nanoatechnology developments in India – a status report


Several government departments and agencies, such as the

DST, DBT, DIT, CSIR, ICMR, DAE, DRDO and MNRE, have

been supporting nanoscience and technology in different

spheres and capacities. These initiatives have been growing not

only at a central level but state levels as well, with states like

Karnataka, Tamilnadu, Haryana adopting a very proactive

approach.

Overall, the support provided by the government for

nanoscience and nanotechnology has been characterised by

emphasis on fundamental research, some support for

development of applications, multidisciplinary and

interdisciplinary research, scant emphasis on risk related

research of nanotechnology, in certain instances of multiplicity

and overlapping R&D focus.

To realize the actual application potential of nanotechnology

would depend on capability at the national level to engage

successfully in the emerging domains of science and technology.

This project has developed such a conceptual Framework to

assess national capabilities to respond to NT developments.1

In this context, nanotechnology offers certain challenges as well

as opportunities to developing countries like India to engage

successfully in nanotechnology research and harness its benefit

towards economic growth and development.

Key emerging challenges The study highlights some key challenges facing the country to

optimally enhance the capacity building initiative vis-à-vis

nanotechnology. One of the biggest challenges has been in terms

of the interdisciplinary nature of nanotechnology per se and the

scope of its applications. These characteristics and the optimism

regarding potential application of nanotechnology in a whole

range of spheres, has to an extent lead to significant overlaps in

the areas for R&D support identified by different agencies. For

instance in health, a strong engagement of agencies like DST,

DBT, and ICMR as well as the involvement of others like CSIR and

even DRDO has been present. This may result in duplicative R&D

efforts and a waste of financial and human resources in this

already cost intensive domain. Other related challenges are in the

form of lack of coordination, information flow, overlapping

mandates and jurisdictions.

An inadequate flow of information between policy makers and the

scientific population as well as amongst policy makers acts as a

barrier in developing real capacity due to inability to leverage

existing capacity, expertise and initiatives. A greater interaction

1 Research Deliverable 7, Ocotober 2008

iv Nanotechnolgy policy environment and R&D in India


between the government and other actors as well as within the

different wings of the government is imperative.

The gap between basic research and application is another

challenge in nanotechnology, like several other technologies.

However, as policy makers begin to stress on product and process,

or rather deliverable oriented R&D and policies that encourage

scientific entrepreneurship, a more conducive environment for

public-private partnerships and technology development is

essential. Being cost and risk intensive, and dependent upon

sophisticated and complex equipment, technical know-how and

capacity, financial constraints often act as an impediment in this

regard.

Although the NSTM outlines the key focus areas for building

capacity in nanotechnology in India there is a need for developing

a detailed time and deliverable bound roadmap for nanoscience

and technology This could involve a SWOT analysis of the R&D

capacity in the nano-domain in India and also address the areas of

strategic interest and if possible even sector specific road maps

including risk assessment, management and mitigations within

the overall nanotechnology development framework. The study

proposes that multi stakeholder engagement that draws

representatives from policy makers, scientists, development

professionals, social scientists, industry and risk professionals

might be sought to formulate such a roadmap.

v Nanoatechnology developments in India – a status report


Abbreviations

CoE Centre of Excellence

CII Confederation of Indian Industries

CSIR Council of Scientific and Industrial Research

DRDO Defence Research and Development Organization

DAE Department of Atomic Energy

DBT Department of Biotechnology

DIT Department of Information Technology

DSIR Department of Scientific and Industrial Research

DST Department of Science and Technology

EHS Environmental, Health and Safety

GOI Government of India

ICAR Indian Council of Agricultural Reserach

ICT Information and communication technology

ICMR Indian Council of Medical Research

IIT Indian Institute of Technology

INUP The Indian Nanoelectronics Users Programme

MoEF Ministry of Environment and Forest

MoHFW Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

MNRE Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

NSTI Nanoscience and Technology Initative

NSTM Nanoscience and Technology Mission

NT Nanotechnology

OHS Occupational Health and Safety

R&D Research and Development

T E R I Report No. 2006ST21

Introduction

Nanoscience and technology: an overview

The desire to harness cutting edge science and technology for

enabling development has prompted global interest in emerging

technologies such as information technology, biotechnology and

of late nanotechnologies.. Nanotechnology aims to harness the

unique properties of things at the nanometer scale (one

billionth of a meter) that are not displayed by their larger

counterparts. Nanoscience generally deals with understanding

the “nano” phenomenon and includes the investigation of the

properties of various nanomaterials, control and maneuvering

of matter at the nano scale. On the other hand nanotechnology

involves using tools and methods for the synthesis, analysis,

manufacture and application of materials, products and systems

that are at the nanometer scale or incorporate facets of the same

dimensions1. However the term “nanotechnology” is by and

large used as a reference for both nanoscience and

nanotechnology especially in the public domain.

Nanotechnology is based on the convergence of several

disciplines ranging from chemistry, material science, physics,

biology and engineering. Cutting across several disciplines

nanoscience and technology lends itself quite naturally to being

merged with other technologies facilitating enhanced scientific

and technological prospects and applications. For that reason

inter and transdisciplinary research is in most cases a

characteristic feature of the R&D undertaken in this field. In

fact several experts have called for the use of the term

“nanotechnologies” instead of “nanotechnology” as the field

does not pertain to a single kind of technology intervention but

encompasses several diverse applications2. The potential of the

convergence of emerging technologies such as nanotechnology,

biotechnology and information technology has created a great

deal of speculation and even conviction about the advantages it

could bestow on mankind.

1 Report on Nanoscience and nanotechnologies: opportunities and uncertainties, 2004, The Royal Society & The Royal Academy of Engineering, http://www.nanotec.org.uk/finalReport.htm 2 Ibid

2 Nanotechnolgy policy environment and R&D in India


Global context; reasons for developing country engagement

Nanotechnology promises to deliver novel products and

processes or enhance the performance of existing ones across

sectors. They include interventions in a range of domains like

water, energy, health, agriculture and environment that could

enable solutions to several development related problems

especially in developing countries1,2. Several industry related

sectors like pharmaceuticals, electronics, automobiles, textile,

chemicals and manufacturing sector, information technology

and communications as well as biotechnology appear poised to

gain from nanotechnology applications. Though shrouded in a

lot of hype, less sanguine forecasts also suggest that this

technology could drive innovations and transformations that

are unlike any that the world has witnessed in the context of

technologies. Markets worth US$ 1 trillion have been forecasted

in 2015 3though this could be subject to the development of

clear markets, reduced costs and large scale manufacturing for

nano applications. Thus it appears that nanotechnology could

impact social development, economies and businesses the world

over. Consequently the lure of using nanotechnology as a tool to

enhance industrial competitiveness and national development

in this globalised world has laid the foundation for a race

amongst several countries to acquire and develop capabilities to

harness this technology. Simultaneously a view that is fast

becoming widespread in the global community is that in context

of research and technology development, developing countries

have the rare opportunity in nanotechnology to “leap frog” in

terms of scientific progress4.

Developing countries in general have been restricted in their

ability to build S&T capability and engage in R&D in the manner

of developed nations. Experts believe that albeit witness to

some good even excellent research, India is to a large extent

several years behind countries like the US, EU and even

developing countries like China5 and some other East Asian

1 Salamanca-Buentello F, Persad DL, Court EB, Martin DK, Daar AS, et al. (2005) Nanotechnology andthe developing world. PLoS Med 2(4): e97. 2 http://www.understandingnano.com/nanotech-applications.html 3 http://www.nanotechnologydevelopment.com/investment/nanotechnology-1-trillion-market-by-2015.html

4 Rachel Parker, 2008, Leapfrogging Development through Nanotechnology Investment:Chinese and Indian Science and Technology Policy Strategies, China-India-US Workshop on Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 5 India lags behind China in spending on R&D: Kapil Sibal, 12 March, 2008, Times of India, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/India_lags_behind_China_in_spending_on_RD_Kapil_Sibal/rssarticleshow/2857652.cms



countries in the context of R&D and S&T capability1.

Sometimes, areas of prime technological relevance have been

entirely bypassed (e.g. semiconductor revolution)2. Therefore in

order to bolster the nation’s science and technology resource the

policy making establishment appears to want to promote R&D

in cutting edge science that in several areas including

biotechnology, advanced materials and nanotechnology. Since

nanoscience and technology is still emerging, it provides

developing nations an opportunity to not only catch up with

their developed counterparts but also offers the possibility to

develop an advantage in core areas.

Worldwide, public sector research and development in the

nanotechnology sphere is thriving in several developed and well

as developing nations. A growing number of private players are

also either investing in core areas in this field or are cautiously

testing the rapidly changing “nanowaters” with a view to invest

in the future. There is an emerging market for nanoproducts

and applications in the global platform, however the majority of

products in the market (close to 700) are largely tailored to high

end or luxury oriented consumer products such as textiles,

sports goods, cosmetics and home furnishings3. Nonetheless, it

is believed that nanotechnology applications can also provide

solutions that could help solve some of the world’s most

pressing problems especially those faced by developing

countries such as access to clean water, promotion of renewable

energy, increasing agricultural production and efficiency of food

storage and finding solutions to several diseases plaguing

developing country populations. Consequently it has been

proclaimed that nanotechnology might act as a key potential

tool in serving to attain the Millennium Developmental Goals

and solving several problems4.

Anticipating its potential as a tool to effect social and economic

development as well as the opportunity it brings with it to

engage in the forefronts of science and technology has led

several developing countries to lay emphasis on nanoscience

and technology. Public investments and strategic

nanotechnology initiatives have been undertaken in countries

like India, China, Brazil, South Africa and Korea. Other African

1 Jaimini Bhagwati, It is technology, stupid, May 29, 2007, Business Standard, http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?autono=285917 2 Centre to set up nano-centre at JNCASR, 24th Sept 2006, The Hindu http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/24/stories/2006092403440400.htm 3 On-line inventory of nanotechnology-based consumer products, Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, Woodrow Wilson Center http://www.nanotechproject.org/inventories/consumer/analysis_draft/ 4 Salamanca-Buentello F, Persad DL, Court EB, Martin DK, Daar AS, et al. (2005) Nanotechnology andthe developing world. PLoS Med 2(4): e97.



countries like Zambia, Ethiopia and some others also appear to

have initiated some level of engagement with this technology1.

Predominant role of the public sector in nanotechnology in India

In India, the nanoscience and technology undertaking has

primarily been a government led initiative. Promoting

nanotechnology and capacity building initiatives including

investments, establishment of infrastructure and facilitation of

public private partnerships are largely being directed by

national policy making agencies. In most countries around the

world either developing or developed, the initial impetus for

nanotechnology has come from the national governments2, 3, 4.

It has been observed in the context of emerging technologies

that governments have usually lent a large helping hand during

their initial development because it is usually a while before

prospects of commercial feasibility become apparent and

market forces can drive their growth5.

In the case of a developing country like India, the trajectory of

nanotechnology might be largely dependent on government

initiatives and support for several reasons. India views building

capacity in S&T including nanotechnology as a way to improve

its socioeconomic condition, industrial competitiveness and its

position as a key player in this globalized world. This would

oblige the state to play a significant role in developing and

harnessing this technology. Alternatively, national scientific and

technological endeavours are challenging undertakings.

Developing R&D capacity in nanoscience and technology might

however be a rather more complex enterprise due to its complex

scientific and technological dimensions, multidisciplinary

nature, cost intensiveness and an enabling characteristic that

promises to facilitate ubiquitous applications across sectors.

These dimensions amongst others pose important junctures at

which government’s role will be crucial for building capability.

For example nanoscience and technology compels that large

efforts are made at understanding the fundamental aspects in

1 Donald C. Maclurcan, 2005 Nanotechnology and Developing Countries Part 1: What Possibilities?, AZOjono, Volume 1

2NNI, http://www.nano.gov/html/about/history.html 3 Nanotechnology- Big or small – A question of perspective, Research in Germany, http://www.research-in-germany.de/coremedia/generator/dachportal/en/05__Topics_20in_20Focus/Nanotechnology/Nanotechnology.html 4 Brazil Nanotechnology Overview Februray 2005 Compiled by: Swiss Business Hub Brazil, http://www.osec.ch/internet/osec/de/home/export/publications/reports/free.-ContentSlot-44753-ItemList-1952-File.File.pdf/branchrep-nanobrazil_en.pdf 5 http://www.nanowerk.com/spotlight/spotid=5531.php



the “nano” context that might bring forth new principles and

tenets. Understanding the science behind the technology is vital

for successfully advancing the realm of nanotechnology. This

makes basic research a prerequisite for indigenous technology

and application development, unless a country decides to

depend on licensing technology from nations (usually developed

countries) that are engaging in basic research leading to

subsequent technology development. In this regard as

frequently observed especially in developing countries, it is the

government that bears the responsibility for initiating, directing

basic research in various fields. Moreover since nanotechnology

involves manipulation at extremely small scales, sophisticated

infrastructure and instrumentation capacities become an

important prerequisite to conduct R&D. Together with this,

application development in nanotechnology necessitates the

training of human resource base in multidisciplinary aspects of

this technology as well as the creation of interdisciplinary

environments for R&D. These actions require heavy investment

and strategic planning at the national level that is usually a

function of the government since it has access to public money

and resources required to build capacity of this nature.

Despite these measures nanotech research in could entail long

gestation periods, risk of technology failure and ensure markets.

Especially in developing countries these risks along with the

high cost research and infrastructure development prevented

significant industry and venture capital (VC) participation in

nanotechnology R&D1. The nanotechnology industry is in its

infancy in India although it appears to be emerging with

companies like Darbur active in nanodrug delivery, Mahindra

and Mahindra looking at nanomaterials for enhancing the

performance of automobiles, Tata chemicals researching nano-

pesticide delivery mechanisms and ICan nano developing paints

and coatings incorporating nanomaterials2. However it is felt by

the Indian S&T establishment in general that the concept of

“directed basic research” undertaken or initiated by industry (in

partnership or not with public entities) in developed nations is

in its infancy in India3. Since the sustenance of private

companies hinges on their ability to generate profits, SMEs

especially cannot be expected in a developing country scenario

to engage in basic research. The government on the other hand

through its R&D governing agencies has the capacity to

1 Vivek Srivastava, 2007, Reaching the critical mass in Indian nanotechnology industry, Nanotechnology Now, http://www.nanotech-now.com/columns/?article=069 2 G K Moinudeen, Nanotechnology-Industrial Scenario- India, Confederation of Indian Industry, http://www.istpcanada.ca/_files/file.php?fileid=filexSbBkbaKdd&filename=file_India_Moinudeen.pdf 3 Report of the Steering Committee on Science and Technology for Eleventh Fiver Year Plan (2007-2012), December 2006, Government of India, Planning Comission



undertake together with applied research its basic equivalent

that focuses on knowledge generation rather than application

development and builds a foundation upon which technologies

can be built. Focus on as well as funding for high risk yet cutting

edge technology development (which in some sense might

describe R&D in nanotechnology) can also be scribed into

national S&T agendas by government agencies since the have

the flexibility to further the cause of science apart from

emphasis on conventional technology development. The

industry on the other hand might be hesitant to invest large

amounts in this direction. Moreover national agencies with

nanotechnology related mandates also have the capacity to be

instrumental in enabling public-private partnerships and

encouraging industry participation which is vital to the process

of technology development in the nano arena. Although this

area has been under-capitalised to a large extent in the India

context, there exist institutional mechanisms to develop greater

industry participation in public funded R&D for technology

development. CSIR’s NIMITLI initiative1 and NRDCs efforts2 in

the area of technology development prime examples.

In the global domain in nanotechnology, the 800 or so products

on market shelves comprise largely of products such as

cosmetics and sunscreens, clothing, personal care products,

sports goods, home and garden care products, electronics and

kitchenware and appliances etc. Most of these products are

geared towards higher end markets and cater to the rich3.

Applications that serve sectors like water and health such as

water filters and diagnostic kits for infectious diseases are in

insignificant numbers in this list. However it is well known that

nanotechnology poses vast opportunity and potential for

catalyzing basic and application oriented research in several

spheres that could aid social development (water, energy,

health, agriculture, environment etc). In developing countries

where it is imperative that science and technology is used to

address development concerns, it is public agencies that will or

could be encouraged to develop nanotechnology with a view on

national priorities. In such a scenario government initiatives

and investments into areas of research that are “non-

commercial” are needed to ensure nanotechnology harnessed to

solve for socially relevant problems. On the other hand the

private sector might focus technology development in

commercial and niche areas. In fact the recently launched

Nanoscience and technology mission (discussed in a section

1 http://www.csir.res.in/external/heads/collaborations/NM.pdf 2 http://www.nrdcindia.com/maj-tech.htm 3 On-line inventory of nanotechnology-based consumer products, Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, Woodrow Wilson Center http://www.nanotechproject.org/inventories/consumer/analysis_draft/



ahead) specifies that one of its aims is to develop applications

that serve sectors like health, water and agriculture. Indeed

public funded projects have been instrumental in developing

nanomaterial based water filters (IIT Chennai, ARCI)1 as well as

diagnostic kits for tuberculosis (CSIO)2 and typhoid (DRDO and

IISc)3. Moreover IIT Bombay that has been developed as a

Centre of Excellence in nanotechnology has developed the iSens

biochip that can allow the early detection of heart attack4. The

Agharkar institute is also developing a therapeutic nano-silver

product that has antimicrobial activity and for which clinical

trials are being considered5. Also at the University of Delhi, the

Department of Chemistry has focused on developing

nanoparticle encapsulation for steroidal drugs delivery for

ocular applications6. This technology is being transferred to the

industry for commercialisation.

For these significant reasons developing countries like India

sees the national S&T policy agencies assuming the prime

responsibility of investing and strategizing the development of

nanoscience and technology. This has necessitated that

ministerial departments involved in shaping the S&T and

related R&D capability of India -the Department of Science and

Technology and others such as the Department of

Biotechnology (both under the S&T ministry) and Department

of information Technology- catalyze and lead the

nanotechnology R&D initiative. Such agencies have therefore

become the nucleus/hub for decision-making and

implementation strategy for nanotechnology development and

management. Therefore it appears that the national S&T

agencies and the approaches they take during the course of

developing nanotechnology will play an instrumental role in the

emergence of this technology in India and its trajectory.

Aspects governing R&D capacity building in nanoscience and technology

Building capacity in a novel, emerging and complex technology

like nanotechnology is a challenging task that the government and

policymaking agencies take upon themselves. India while

performing exceedingly well in certain technology domains, like

1 http://www.indiawaterportal.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/nano.doc

1http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2008/02/27/stories/2008022751082300.htm 2 CSIO develops nanotechnology for TB diagnosis kit, 2004, The Times of India, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/401636.cms 3 DRDO typhoid kit in market by mid-year, 2006, The Hindu, http://www.hindu.com/2006/01/14/stories/2006011419320200.htm 4 Background paper on Nanotechnology – The Science of the future, 2008, India R&D 2008 5 Jahanara Parveen, Nanobiotech pioneers, http://biospectrumindia.ciol.com/cgi-bin/printer.asp?id=109589 6 Background paper on Nanotechnology – The Science of the future, 2008, India R&D 2008



space technology for example has also missed out on harnessing

important areas of R&D- semiconductor technology1. Taking into

account its enormous socio-economic potential, the Indian S&T

establishment aims to become a key global player in nanoscience

and nanotechnology. In the race amongst developed and

developing nations to garner nanotechnology’s benefits, it would

mean getting “nanotechnology right the first time” making the role

of R&D policymaking agencies all the more significant.

Every country provides a unique backdrop for the evolution and

development of nanoscience and technology given its S&T

history, local context and priorities. Given that India since its

independence has had to rely on a bottom up approach to

develop capabilities in various technologies, the national S&T

agencies and their policies have played an important role in

shaping the present scenario in this domain. Therefore the path

that nanotechnology charts in India must be seen in the

backdrop of India’s the existing S&T environment not be

visualised in isolation. Developments and approaches that

define nanotechnology’s trajectory in India will draw from

available S&T milieu. For example India has been considered as

having a stronger science rather than an engineering

background2. Therefore while basic research is seen to thrive in

India, application development is an area that has in general

not flourished. The Nehru era that saw the bolstering of Indian

S&T also laid the strong foundation for developing universities

and S&T institutes that form the backbone of the system that

churns record numbers of science and engineering graduates.

On the other hand India has largely lacked the environment that

creates active and efficient public-private participation in R&D

that facilitates speedy technology development and

commercialisation. Additionally it is also largely recognised that

the era of tight fisted R&D budgets is that of the past and the

government has dramatically increased its S&T spending3. Yet

several experts feel that the bureaucratic manner in which fund

allocation has been controlled begs for a creation of a new body

that directs the management and disbursement of monies for

basic research4. Therefore several contradictions mark the Indian

S&T system that has largely been governed by national agencies

designated to oversee the building of R&D capacity in India.

These scenarios that have been determined by the measures and

1 Khandelwal, K. K. (1981), “The electronics industry: aspects and prospects”, Commerce, 142 (3648), May 16, pp. 10-13. 2 Vivek Srivastava, 2008, Would public research investment create innovative Indian nanotech companies, http://toostep.com/trends/would-public-research-investment-create-innovative-ind 3 PM announces setting up of National Institute of Science Education and Research at Bhubaneshwar, http://pmindia.nic.in/lspeech.asp?id=379 4 R. Ramachandran, 2009 Funds Aplenty, Frontline, Volume 26, Issue 5, http://www.frontlineonnet.com/fl2605/stories/20090313260504900.htm



policies in national S&T framework will have implications for any

technological endeavour undertaken in the country. Thus the

nanotechnology initiative undertaken by the country must be

viewed in the light of existing frameworks as they will be defined

and guided by developments therein. The national

nanotechnology program must certainly try to leverage core

strengths of the Indian scientific establishment towards building

capacity in R&D in this field. However contemplation of the gaps

and impediments that the S&T system has witnessed in the past

as well as the challenges that nanotechnology poses to building

R&D capacity due to its complex nature might allow novel or

previously under-emphasized approaches to be assumed. In all of

this the role of the role of the national R&D policy agencies and

central and state governments are of prime importance.

The R&D policymaking arena of India is complex with many

agencies contributing to the growth of R&D and its development.

The functions of the national agencies that govern R&D capacity

building in the science and technology usually assume the following

dimensions: investments, promotion of R&D, facilitating technology

development and industry participation establishing infrastructure,

developing skilled human resources, forging national and

international collaborations. Moreover the Indian nanotechnology

landscape has characterised by several rapid developments from

seemingly diverse directions. While policy decisions lead to a gamut

of developments, in general, expansion and progress in the field of

nanoscience and technology might also govern policy decisions.

Both these would in turn bear implications for the national

nanotechnology framework and trajectory.

Structure of the report

This report has four main chapters: Chapter 1 reviews

development in nanotechnology in India. Chapter 2 describes

the nanotechnology and development issues in India where it

attempts to describe the R&D effort being undertaken in

development sectors like energy, water and agriculture in

context of the challenges that India faces within them. The focus

of chapter 3 is on policy support for nanotechnology in India.

Before concluding Chapter 4 deals with the challenges and

opportunities for nanotechnology development from a

capability perspective.

Taken together they provide a broad overview of the

nanotechnology developments, architecture, role of policy

making in this sphere and will help comprehend events and

forces that have led to the emergence nanoscience and

technology in India and are also currently instumental in

shaping it This would also help stakeholders focus on and



understand their implications for fostering R&D in

nanotechnology in the country and building capability for the

same.


CHAPTER 1 Nanotechnology developments in India

Key players involved

Nations try to harness the potential offered by modern science

and technology to its socio-economic needs. In order to realize

this, a wide range of organizations and practices are required.

Science and technology organizations, such as universities,

research institutes and public research and development

organizations constitute an important component of the science

and technology system of a nation. These are the sites where

knowledge with potential for technological innovation is

generated. Further, industries constitute an important arena in

which the knowledge is translated into goods and services. They

also tend to be the institutions whose products are used to fulfill

social needs. It goes without saying that organizations like

government agencies and departments, patent offices, and

funding organizations (both public and private) are equally

important in this regard. The above mentioned organizations

perform critical functions like R&D, the provision of technical

services, and the development of policy.

The emergence of nanotechnology in India has witnessed the

engagement of a diverse set of players, each with their own

agenda and role. Together they shape the trajectory of

nanotechnology in the national context. In what follows, we

provide an overview of the key players involved in the emerging

area of nanotechnology in India. Figure1.1 maps the key players

engaged in nanotechnology in India. Nanotechnology in India is

a public driven initiative. Industry participation has very recently

originated. Nanotechnology R&D barring a few exceptions is

largely being ensued at publically funded universities as well as

research institutes. Therefore policy agencies and R&D

organisations are the key players in the national context.

Government agencies DST, the nodal department for organising, coordinating and

promoting S&T activities in India is the chief agency engaged in

the development of nanoscience and nanotechnology. It is at the

helm of the principal program, the Nanoscience and Technology

Mission (NSTM) established to develop India as a key player in

nanoscience and technology. While it will steer this initiative

between the years 2007-2012 it also hosted the flagship program,

the Nanoscience and Technology Initiative (NSTI) that was

pioneered in 2001 until 20061.

1 http://nanomission.gov.in/



Knowledge Generation

bodies

Universities & colleges

(~31)

Research Institutes

• Public (~17)

• Private

Centres of Excellence

• Unit of Nanoscience (11)

• Centre for Nanotechnology (7)

• Centre for Computational

Materials Science (1)

Knowledge Transfer

bodies

Centre for Technology

Transfer (generic)

Knowledge Application

bodies

Product

Development

Financial sector

Venture Capital

Public funds

Private Funds

Policy makers

MoST (DST, DBT, CSIR)

Civil Society & Community

Organizations

Gene Campaign

(influencing policy,

awareness raising)

International Funds

Ministry of Health & Family

Welfare (ICMR)

Ministry of Defense (DRDO)

Ministry of New &

Renewable Energy

Others (DAE)

MoWR

MoFPI

MoEF

Specialized Incubators

& S&T Entrepreneur

Parks

(NT-NCL, Pune)

Nano Science & Technology in

India

India Nano (bridge

between academia

& industry; seed

funded by IndiaCo )

Note: Figures in parentheses indicate the

numbers Figure: Mapping of Stakeholders in Nanotechnology in India

Weak linkages

Emerging linkages

Social science,

policy research

(TERI, Nistads..)

R&D

NIMBKAR, Pune

(Tech.dissemination)

Media

Print Visual

Environment,

health and

Safety (EHS)

research (NIPER)

Industry

Associations (CII,

Assocham, FICCI)

Regulatory

bodies/authorities

Ministry of Agriculture

(ICAR)

MoCIT (DIT)

Ministry of Commerce &

Industry

Ministry of Textiles

Involved in NT

Other that could support NT

Other those have shown

Figure 1.1 Mapping of stakeholders in nanotechnology in India



Aside DST, several other agencies with diverse mandates are also

actively engaged in supporting nanotechnology in the national

arena. This follows from nanotechnology’s ability to configure

itself to several disciplines as well as serve multiple sectors. DBT

that is involved in developing and supporting biotechnology in

Inida is keenly supporting research at the junctures if

nanotechnology and the lifesciences1. CSIR, a network of 38

laboratories that engages in scienctific and industrial R&D for

socio-economic benefit has also commissioned R&D in

nanotechnology in diverse areas2. While these three agencies are

under the Ministry of Science and Technology, DIT under the

Ministry of Information and Communication Technology as well

as ICMR under the Ministry of Family Health and Welfare are

also supporting the expansion of nanotechnology in the areas of

electronics3 and health4 respectively. The Ministry of New and

Revewable Energy (MNRE)5 is also supporting nanoscience and

technology in India to utilize its potential in developing

renewable energy sources like photovoltaics and fuel cells etc.

Additionally DRDO6, a network of 50 laboratories under the

Ministry of Defense as well as the Department of Atomic Energy

(DAE)7 that’s placed directly under the Government of India are

also contributing to the expsnsion of nantotechnology in India.

While DST appears to be playing the most significant role in

developing the nations capacity in nanotechnology the other

aforementioned agencies are also instrumental in shaping its

trajectory though their roles might be smaller than the former’s.

Aside these agencies, others like ICAR under the Minstry of

Agriculture as well as the Minstry of Commerce and Industry8, 9, 10, 11 have shown interest in engaging with nanotechnology in

India, though they are not yet actively involved. However both

these agencies might have important roles to play in

nanotechnology domain in the near future. ICAR representatives

have already been involved in developing a strategy for initiating

1 Annual Report, 2006-07 and 2007-08, Department of Biotechnology 2 Annual Report, 2006-2007, Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research 3 Department of Information Technology, http://www.mit.gov.in/default.aspx?id=691 4 Indian Council of Medical Research, List of Extramural Research Fellowships(RA/ SRF) Sanctioned from April 2007 to March 2009, http://icmr.nic.in/projects/fellowshipsanc07-09.htm 5 Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, http://mnes.nic.in/ 6 DRDO typhoid kit in market by mid-year, 2006, The Hindu, http://www.hindu.com/2006/01/14/stories/2006011419320200.htm 7 http://www.dae.gov.in/# 8 http://www.nal.res.in/pages/arupdhayadetprof.htm 9 Strategy for Increasing Exports of Pharmaceutical Products, 2008 Report of the Task Force, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department of Commerce, Government of India, http://commerce.nic.in/WhatsNew/Report%20Tas%20Force%20Pharma%2012th%20Dec%2008.pdf 10 Government to commercialise nanotechnology products, 2004, Financial Express, http://www.financialexpress.com/news/govt-to-commercialise-nanotechnology-products/113424/ 11 Narayan Kulkarni, 2006, Nanotechnology is the buzzword, http://biospectrumindia.ciol.com/content/BioBusiness/10604115.asp



nanotechnology based R&D in the field of agriculture1. On the

other hand as industry engagement with nanotechnology

expands in India, an increased participation of Ministry for

Commerce and Industry might be observed.

Other policy agencies that might be interested in nanotechnology

The development of nanotechnology based sector wise

applications like nano-textiles in India might also facilitate the

involvement of other ministries such as the Ministry of Textile.

Further R&D in the areas like water and food processing is

encouraged by either DST or DBT. However other ministries like

the ministry of Water Resorces and the Ministry of Food

Processing Industries that hold these portfolios might also aid in

the development nanotechnology through the wealth of

information and experience that they possess in their niche areas

as well as in creating networks. Additinally as the potential for

utilising nanotechnology to address developmental needs and

help rural masses is realised the Ministry of Rural development

might aid in assessing the feasibility of these technologies in rural

setups aswell as in their diffusion. However at present the

participation of these agencies for nanotechnology development

appears unlikely given the lack of coordination observed amongst

policymakers across various agencies.

On the other hand the pervasiveness of nanotechnology and

uncertainity about its impacts necessitates that environmental

health and safety issues of EHS are addressed. In this context

reseach that informs stakeholders on the toxicological and risk

implications of nanomaterials and applications is crucial. While a

few such studies have been comissioned by DST and DBT (See

Chapter 2), a much larger role in identifying research gaps in this

area as well as in regulating this technology (as described in the

report on ‘Regulatory challenges of nanotechnology in India’

might be undertaken by the Ministry of Environments and

forests. Incidentally the MOEF aids both policy research as well

as applied research in the areas of pollution control and clean

technologies while the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

does have a wing that looks into issues of occupational health.

Additionally in the task of building capacity in the human

resources department that the Ministry of Human Resource

Development might support DST through some initiatives. While

DST focuses on developing human resources and post graduate

and doctorate levels, the former could evolve school curricula to

introduce nanotechnology at probably a higher secondary level as

well as train teachers in this sphere. In fact the Ministry of

Human Resources appears to have financed some nanoscience

1 Surinder Sud, A Nano step , 2008, Business Standard http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?autono=320749



and nanotechnology related projects at IIT, Mumbai in the years

between 1999 and 20031.

Public sector R&D institutions

Public sector R&D institutions play a predominant role in

nanotechnology R&D. Research in nanoscience and

nanotechnology is being carried out in various academic and

scientific institutions. Foremost are the, ‘Centers of Excellence

(CoE) for Nanoscience and Technology’ established under the

NSTI by DST. The CoEs consist of eleven “Units of nanoscience”

that were created to pursue basic research in several broad areas

of nanoscience/ nanoscale systems and technology (Figure 1.2).

Whereas seven “Centers for nanotechnology” were also initiated

that could focus on R&D in niche areas or in specific dimensions

sch as nanoelectronics (IIT Bombay) or nanoscale phenomena in

biological systems and materials (Tata Institute of Fundamental

Research-TIFR) (Figure 1.2 ). The “Centers” seeks to undertake

R&D to develop specific applications in a fixed period of time.

Another “Center for Computational Materials Science” has also

been established2.

On the whole the 19 CoE have been spread across 14 distinct

institutions. Discussion with policy makers has led to the

understanding that these centers of excellence have been set up

primarily at those institutes that either have been engaging in

nanotechnology based R&D prior to their establishment or have

developed the resources to do so. The S.N. Bose National Centre

for Basic Sciences (SN Bose NCBS), Association for the

Cultivation of Science (IACS), the Indian Institute of Science

(IISc), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research

((JNCASR) and IIT Kanpur, each host a Unit of Nanoscience as

well as Centre for Nanotechnology. These CoEs as well as the

others at IIT Mumbai, Chennai and Delhi are considered

amongst the leading institutes for nanoscience and technology

research. Altogether the CoEs comprise of autonomous institutes,

universities (central, state, deemed and private) as well as a CSIR

institute.

However autonomous institutes (the IITs, IACS, SN Bose NCBS

and SINP) are the largest represented group in the CoEs followed

by deemed universities (IISc and JNCASR). Amonsgt the othet

universities the University of Pune and Banaras Hindu University

host two CoEs while NCL, the CSIR laboratory hosts one (Table

1.1). Incidently it has been observed that in India that while the

bulk of the R&D is undertaken in and developed at autonomous

research institutes, only 3% of R&D activity is assumed in the

1 http://www.iitb.ac.in/~crnts/industry.html 2 http://nanomission.gov.in/



university system of India1. Autonomous institutes have been

observed to possess the requisite infrastructure, human resources

as well as well oiled funding and international collaboration

mechanisms that enables them to engage in cutting edge

research. However some scientists do feel that R&D in

nanoscience and technology must be promoted at central and

state universities since that allows an opportunity for students

undertaking bachelors and masters programs to engage with this

emerging technology.

With this in mind DST has on the other hand been aiding the

establishment of other centres for nanoscience and technology

related R&D. Infact 3 institutes of nanocience and technology

(INST), one each at Bangalore, Kolkata and Mohali2 are being

considered and in 2008-2009 funds for the latter have been

provided (Nanomission website). The institute at Bangalore will

be established in joint partnership with JNCASR and IISC while

the other two are to be created in partnership with Indian

Institute of Science and Technology (NIIS&T) (to be developed

by the human resources development (HRD) ministry) and the

National institute of Technology3.Together the CoEs and the

INSTs are being developed as specialised centres to address the

complexities of engaging in diverse R&D in the nanoscience and

technology domain.

According to DST Secretary Thirumalachari Ramasami, in order to

elevate the quality of nanoR&D in India a critical mass of 150 working

groups needed would be required4. Therefore the aim is to develop a

conglomeration of “50-60 science and technology units including IITs

and NITs to facilitate the creation of “nano clusters across the

country”. Therefore in order to expand the R&D base for nanoscience

and technology DST has provided support and financial assistance for

setting up in house centres at various research organizations and

universitie5s. They include the following:

� Center for Protein Nanoscience at the Anna University,

Tamilnadu in 2006-2007

� Between 2007-2008 three centres were aided. The Center for

1 Naushad Forbes, Higher Education, Scientific Research and Industrial Competitiveness: Reflections on Priorities for India, 2004, Forbes Marshall, Pune,Science, Technology and Society, Stanford University, Higher education , 2004 2 Bangalore poised to become nanocity, The Hindu, accessed on 24 May 2008 http://www.hindu.com/2007/11/04/stories/2007110454890500.htm 3 National mission to make India global nano hub, 5 November 2007 http://www.indiaedunews.net/In-Focus/November_2007/National_mission_to_make_India_global_nano_hub_2394/ 4 Govt to establish three nanotech institute, 3 Nov 2007 http://egovindia.wordpress.com/2007/11/03/govt-to-establish-three-nano-tech-institutes/ 5 List of Projects sanctioned and list of proposals received, http://nanomission.gov.in/



Nanotechnology at the Hyderabad University, Andhra

Pradesh; Nanofunctional materials Technology Center at IIT,

Chennai, Tamilnadu and also a Centre for Nanotechnology at

Madurai Kamraj University at Madurai, Tamilnadu.

� Proposals have also been received for developing a Centre for

Nanomaterials and devices at Cochin University of Science

and Technology as well as establishing a Nanotechnology

Research Facility for Energy Research at Periyar Maniammi

University and a Polymer Nano Materials Research Centre at

the BSA Crescent Engineering College at Chennai. However it

is unclear whether any or all of these are being proposed as

Centres of Excellence or are lone faculties at the respective

host institutes.

Table 1.1 Distribution of existing “Centres of Excellence” across the various categories of

R&D institutes

Central/ State

Universities

Deemed

Universities

CSIR

Laboratories

Autonomous

Institutes

Private University/

Research Institute

Units 2 2 1 6 -

Centre 0 1 - 5 1

Others - 1 - - -

Aside from DST, the DIT has also supported the establishment of a

Centre of nanoelectronics at IISc Bangalore and IIT Mumbai. An

amount of Rs.99.80 crore will be invested in this center for duration of 5

years. Another DIT supported project- Generic Development of

Nanometrology for Nanotechnology was undertaken at NPL, New Delhi

was also developed that will focus on developing calibration and other

techniques. An amount of Rs.11.308 crore has been allocated for this

purpose for 4 years. It is intended that facilities at these centers would

be available to other researchers and industry as well.

DBT also appears to be interested in developing centres of

excellence in nanobiotechnology. Aside these institutes, others

involved in nanoscience and technology include CSIR labs like

CCMB, NIPER (Chandigarh) as well as universities like the

University of Delhi1.

1 Narayan Kulkarni, 2006, Nanotechnology is the buzzword, http://biospectrumindia.ciol.com/content/BioBusiness/10604115.asp



Source: http:/nanomission.gov.in

Since the CoEs as well as the others centres are being created in

locations across India, it might contribute a de-centralised approach to

capacity building in nanotechnology in India. Both Bangalore and

Kolkata that host 5 CoEs and a proposed INST each appear to be

developing in hubs for nanoscience and technology. Since Bangalore is

already a known centre for IT and BT, its focussed involvement in

nanotechnology might enable a confluence amongst these emerging

technologies which in turn might spark innovation and

multidisciplinary R&D. On the other hand aside Bangalore the other

cities in southern India- Chennai, Madurai and Cochin – all of which are

witnessing increasing involvement this technology might enable a larger

hub for nanotechnology development, especially as they are

geographically close to one another (See Annexure V). Incidentally,

states like Tamilnadu, Karnataka and Kerala are amongst the top five

National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune

BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

University of Pune, Pune

Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, Karnataka

Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bangalore

Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics (SINP), Kolkata

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, New Delhi

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, Kanpur

S.N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SN Bose NCBS), Kolkata

Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), Kolkata

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, Chennai

Unit of Nano Science

Centre of Excellence

(CoE) established in India in the

area of nanoscience and technology

IACS (Photovoltaics & Sensor Devices),

Kolkata

IIT, Kanpur, (Printable Electronics,

Nanopatterning), Kanpur

IISc (Nanodevices, Nanocomposites, Nanobiosensors), Bangalore

IIT-Bombay, Mumbai (Nanoelectronics, polymer nanosensors, nanobiotechnology), Mumbai

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) (Nanoscale phenomena in biological systems & materials), Bangalore

SN Bose NCBS (NEMS & MEMS / Nano

products), Kolkata

Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (Implants, Tissue Engineering, Stem Cell Research), Kochi

Centre for Nanotechnology

JNCASR, Bangalore

Centre for Computational Materials Science

Deemed University

Central /

State University

Autonomous R&D Institute

Private university /

Research institute

Box 1: Issues in

agriculture and

Figure 1.2 Centre of excellence established in India in nanoscience and technology

CSIR labs



states that churn out the majority of engineering1 graduates and also

individually harbour the most number of engineering institutes in the

country23. This would augur well for the development of applications

and devices in the nanotechnology domain.

Industry Besides public sector R&D institutions, there are a handful of

companies in India that are engaged in research and product

development on nanotechnology such as, Cranes Software

International Limited, Monad Nanotech, Velbionanotech,

Innovations Unified Technologies, Qtech Nanosystems and Naga

Nanotech India. Also, leading companies like Reliance, Tata

Group and Mahindra and Mahindra are making investments in

this emerging area.

Cranes Software International Limited has research set up for

MEMS and Nanotechnology at India's leading institutions like

the IISc, Bangalore4. Velbionanotech, ranked ASIA's Top 100 Bio

Nanotechnology companies by Red Herring in 2005, is designing

drugs for various diseases such as heart disease, kidney stones,

AIDS, cancer, cosmetic generic products. These drugs are

assembled in nanochips and as nano particles for delivering in

human body5. Monad Nanotech is another company producing

carbon nano materials (CNM) commercially using low cost

production technology developed at IIT Mumbai6. Besides its

involvement in the synthesis of carbon nano material, the

company is also working on their futuristic applications. Monad

Nanotech has been supplying many nano materials to the

research organizations in India. Besides doing research and

development and producing nano materials, Monad Nanotech

has taken up the agency of Shenzhen Nanotech Port Co. Ltd.,

(NTP) China for sales rights in India and Canada. Similarly

Monad has taken the agency of Meijo Nano Carbon, Nagoya,

Japan for world marketing rights for its products excluding

1 TN, AP, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala together account for 31% of population but 69% of engineers whereas UP, Bihar, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Orissa together account for 43% of population but 14% of engineers 2 In 2004 Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala accounted for 250, 215, 151, 111 and 73 engineering institutes respectively. The first four states occupied 1st to 5th positions amongst all Indian states for the same while Kerala was at 7th position after Uttar Pradesh. 3 Naushad Forbes, Higher Education, Scientific Research and Industrial Competitiveness: Reflections on Priorities for India, 2004, Forbes Marshall, Pune,Science, Technology and Society, Stanford University, Higher education , 2004 4 http:// www.cranessoftware.com 5 http://www.velbionanotech.com/aboutus.html 6 Sundarajan, G and T N Rao (2009). Commercial prospects for nanomaterials in India. Journal of the Indian Institute of Science, 89:1 Jan–Mar 2009. Available at, http://journal.library.iisc.ernet.in/vol200901/sundar.pdf



Japan. Innovations Unified Technologies conceptualized by a

group of IIT Bombay alumnus, having specialization in

nanotechnology, working on to supply small and bulk quantities

of MWNT/SWNT produced by its pilot plant in three different

grades. Qtech Nanosystems is a "technology incubation

enterprise" focused on making products based on

nanotechnology1. It is engaged in product development and

commercialization for Nanopositioning stages for

nanotechnology and other varied precision applications.

Non-government organizations There are non-government organizations working to act as bridge

between academia and industry in nanotechnology. The

Nanotechnology Research and Innovation Foundation

(IndiaNano) is one such non-profit organization supported by

academic and industry experts aimed at developing a platform

for real-time strategic collaboration between diverse groups in

order to harness the benefits of progress in advanced

technologies, including nanotechnology2. This initiative is seed

funded by IndiaCo, a private equity investment holding company

that invests in hi-tech companies that can access global markets

and supported by National Chemical Laboratory, Girvan Institute

of Technology and The Centre for Materials for Electronics

Technology.

The IndiaNano has "Innovation Acceleration Network (IAN)

designed to bridge the gap between invention and commercial

reality, by providing pragmatic support for technology

entrepreneurs in the areas of Operations, Intellectual Property

Management, Business development and Technology Transfer so

as to create ventures that could compete in global markets.

In January 2006 the Nanotechnology Research and Innovation

Foundation and the Regional Research Laboratory, Trivandrum

(RRL-T) have forged a strategic partnership that will allow the

pooling of their respective expertise and thereby facilitate the

commercialization of technologies within RRL to the industries

in India and across the globe.

The Nano Science and Technology Consortium3 is another

organization that works to create a platform conducive for the

growth, promotion and partnering in the field of Nano Science

and Technology taking together industries, academics and

government through consultative, advisory and educative

processes which will provide growth platform for organizations,

academics and governments for harnessing the nano potential at

global level. It is a non-governmental, industry-managed and

1 http://www.qtechnanosystems.com/ 2 http://www.indianano.com/background.asp 3 http://www.nstc.in/



promoted organization with a role of facilitator for nano

developmental processes.

Key government programmes

Department of Science and Technology Early initiatives

While developing capacity in nanotechnology is largely a recent

national undertaking, support for R&D in the nano realm is not

entirely new. As far back in the 6th Five Year plan (1980-1985)

DST launched their program “Intensification of Research in High

Priority Areas” (IRHPAS). This program (which over the years is

said to have had a tremendous impact on the national scientific

establishment in terms of the quality and quantity of work)

appears to have also included support for work in nanomaterials1.

One of the earliest nanotechnology initiatives in the policy-making

arena was in 1997, when DST created a committee under Prof. D

Nagchoudhary that looked into the prospects of this emerging

technology and fund research for 3 years. In fact SERC under the

DST had during this period initiated a program on Nanocrystalline

materials (focusing on the synthesis and properties of

nanomaterials), which once again supported projects on

nanoscience such as those2. This period was characterized by the

initiation of such relatively small nano specific programs that

oversaw and supported nanoscience research. This apart other

general programs that did not have nanoscience as their prime focus

also continued to support this kind of research as long as it fitted

into its scope. For instance the National Programme on Smart

Materials (NPSM), a 5 year programme funded for US$ 15 million

was launched jointly by five Govt Departments-DRDO, CSIR, DOS,

DST and MIT in the year 2000 focused on aerospace and biomedical

spheres. Few of the forty projects dealing with smart materials,

sensors etc in these spheres included research on nano dimensions.

It has been observed that the NPSM acted as “a catalyst and model

for several independent initiatives in micro- and nanotechnology

areas”3.

Program on Nanomaterials: Science & Devices Around the same time (2000-2001) DST set-up an Expert Group

on "Nanomaterials: Science & Devices" and reached the following

conclusions:

� A good scientific base exists in the country in physics and

chemistry of nanomaterials;

1 Department of Science and Technology, http://www.dst.gov.in/about_us/ar99-2000opportunities.htm 2 Annual Report SERC 200-2001 3 http://www.nal.res.in/pages/arupdhayadetprof.htm



� To sustain the progress of research activities in the area of

nanomaterials, there is a need for nano-scale structural

characterization facilities to be set up in the country;

� While open-ended basic research in nanomaterials is very

important (and which has been and is being pursued with the

help of existing mechanisms), it is equally important to

intensify efforts to generate, formulate and support end-to-

end goal-oriented projects by utilising the expertise and

facilities already available in the country;

� Considering the existing expertise and the need for

application potential, the chemical route and other cost-

effective routes for preparation of nanomaterials need to be

focused upon. In particular, the following application-

oriented areas should be chosen for intensifying promotional

efforts - (a) nano sized ceramics; (b) nanomaterials in drug-

delivery systems; and (c) nanotechnology for water

purification system.

These recommendations paved the way for the “Nanomaterials:

Science and Devices” program that sought to generate and

support some end-to-end projects leading to tangible processes,

products and technologies in the sphere of nanotechnology.

Special emphasis is being laid on projects aimed at solving

important national problems like pure drinking water, alternative

energy sources, energy conservation, etc. and value addition of

materials. One of the first projects evolved under this program is

on targeted gene delivery using inorganic nanoparticles as non-

viral vectors. This program was to run in parallel with DST's

support to basic research in nanomaterials1.

Nanoscience and Technology Initiative (NSTI)

Initiated in 2001, the NSTI has served as the primary vehicle for

India engagement with nanoscience and technology. Though

modestly funded, this program spearheaded capacity building in

this arena at the national level. The NSTI took root when the

Government of India identified the need to initiate a program

that focused on nanoscience and technology in the 10th Five Year

Plan. In this context it was felt that there was a need to evolve a

framework for a “National Initiative on Nanomaterial Science &

Technology”. Thus DST set up a National Expert Committee and

a strategy paper was evolved for supporting on a long-term basis

both basic research and application oriented programs in

nanomaterials2. A panel on nanotechnology was established

under the guidance of Prof CNR Rao, and these helped crystallize

the Nanoscience and Technology Initiative (NSTI) (table 1.2).

The focus areas of the NSTI were to

� Support R&D projects in nanoscience and technology

1 http://www.dst.gov.in/about_us/ar01-02-sr-serc.htm 2 Ibid



� Establish Centers of Excellence and strengthen characterization facilities

� Develop human resources � Instigate and encourage international collaborative programs � Initiate joint Institution Industry Linked projects and

Public Private Partnership activities

Table 1.2 Thrust of the Nanoscience and Technology Initiative (NSTI):

Research Areas Focus

Research Areas - Synthesis &

Assembly

Ceramic nanoparticles, Nanotubes, Nanowire

Nanoporous solids, DNA chip, Nanostructured alloys, etc.

Main focus on chemical methods / routes to synthesize these materials

Characterization Facilities -

Routine & Advanced

measurements

Less expensive pieces of equipment for routine characterization for individual

research workers (e.g. ordinary STM/AFM, Light scattering etc.)

Facilities / equipments for advanced measurements

Few centers to be established with major facilities (eg. Combined AFM-STM-SEM

Instrument, Near Field Microscopy, Optical Tweezer)

Applications Nanolithography & Nanoelectronics

Drugs / Gene targeting, DNA Chips

Nanotubes

Nanostructured high strength materials

Quantum structures

Education To Train Manpower Advanced Schools

International / National symposium

Postdoctoral Fellowships in Nanoscience & Technology

Industry - Linkages with

Industry

Interaction with Industry

Nanopowder /Nanoparticle production

Nanoelectronics

Surface processing

Drug Delivery


Since the commencement of the NSTI, the S&T landscape

witnessed a slew of developments that have served to build

foundation for the country in the nanoscience and technology

domain. The NSTI was characterised by tremendous support for

nanoscience and technology related research in terms of

financing projects, developing laboratory infrastructure and

international collaborations. Of prime importance was the

decision to develop and establish “Centers of Excellence” in

nanoscience and nanotechnology. To take forward the latter

initiatives like public-private partnerships and joint institute-

industry linked projects were materialized. Several projects of the

kind have been initiated with countries in the EU and Asian

region apart from others like USA and are being pursued. A

detailed account of the initiatives undertaken in the NSTI ambit

is in the section below1.

During the NSTI reign meetings and brain storming sessions

such as the one on nanotechnology initiatives chaired by Dr




Chidambaram, PSA to Govt of India, 2003 and the National

Brainstorming Workshop on Nano Technology Initiatives by the

Ministry of Commerce and Industry1, Establishment of

Nanotechnology at the National Institute for Pharmacology

Research2, 2006 were conducted. In fact during this period, Dr

Kalam, the nations then president and renowned space scientist

assumed the role of promoting nanotechnology at several

national academic and other forums. His pro nanotechnology

oratory and stance coupled with vision for establishing India as a

“nanotechnology hub” has influenced policy makers and

academia to strenuously emphasize on this emerging science and

technology.

Nanoscience and Technology Mission (NSTM) While NSTI was in progress there was an emergence of the need

of a “mission mode” initiative that would build on NSTI’s

foundation and propel the nation towards strengthening its

nanoscience and technology capability. In fact a meeting between

organized by Dr Kalam with experts in 2004, a proposal to

conceive a national mission on nanoscience and technology with

a larger sum of investment million was discussed. Though clear

objectives were not specified an outcome of the meeting was a

recommendation for the creation of five contemporary national

facilities and mini centers for nanoscience and technology. These

discussions and meetings sowed the seeds of the conception of a

national nano mission along with the encouraging progress

observed during the NSTI period facilitated the conception of the

Nanoscience and Technology Mission around 2006. The NSTM

commenced in 2007 and is planned until 2012. The Nano

Mission Council that is presently chaired by Prof. C.N.R. Rao

(National Research Professor and Honorary President & Linus

Pauling Research Professor, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for

Advanced Research, Bangalore) guides the NSTM. DST was

assigned as the nodal agency for its implementation. The mission

seeks to strengthen national capacity, leverage the progress made

during the tenure of the NSTI and forge ahead in making India a

globally strong player in this emerging field. The aim is to expand

the national support base in terms of research and technology

development, infrastructure, human resource development,

collaborations and public-private partnerships. The mission

together with setting its sights on building capability in

nanotechnology has also articulated the aim of harnessing this

technology’s potential for national development.

It is believed that the NSTM (table 1.3) will handle the activities

previously undertaken by the NSTI, will take forward its

initiatives and instigate new developments to enhance the

1 http://www.nal.res.in/pages/arupdhayadetprof.htm 2 http://www.icmr.nic.in/annual/2005-06/iop/scien_part.pdf



national nanoscience and technology endeavour. The focus area

and objectives of the NSTM are as follows.

� Basic Research Promotion

� Infrastructure development for nanoscience and technology

research

� Nano applications and technology development programs

� Human resource development

� International collaborations

Table 1.3 Thrust of National Nanoscience and Technology Mission (NSTM)


The NSTI and NSTM are believed to be the primary source

through which DST has supported nanoscience and technology

projects1.

Department of Information Technology At the Department of Information Technology, the

Nanotechnology Initiative Division was constituted under their

Electronics R&D focus area. This division hosted the launch of

the Nanotechnology Development Program in 2004. The areas of

concern under this program were primarily (i) infrastructure

development in the spheres of in nanoelectronics and

nanometrology and (ii) support for small and medium R&D

projects under the areas of nanomaterials, nanodevices, carbon

nano tubes (CNT), nanosystems, nanometrology2.

1 http://nanomission.gov.in/ 2 http://www.mit.gov.in/default.aspx?id=691

Research Areas Focus

Research and

application

Research programs

Basic and applied research in development sectors such as water, health care,

agriculture, industrial products, textiles

Leveraging of multidisciplinary approach for innovation in nanoscience and technology

Infrastructure Centers for nanoscience and technology and nano-clusters

Sophisticated instrumentation facilities

Technology

development

Promote programs and projects for tech development- products, devices

Strengthening public-private partnerships, institute and industry linked projects

Promoting nano-entrepreneurship - founding business incubators and developing a

research and industry collaboration hub (RICH)

Human resource

development

Training researchers for interdisciplinary research in nanoscale science, engineering

and techechnology

Courses for science and engineering graduates to pursue post-graduate education in

nanoscience and nanotechnology

National and international postdoc fellowships, chairs in universities

Collaborations Exploratory visits, Joint projects, workshops and conferences

Access to sophisticated research facilities abroad

Establish joint centres of excellence

International level industry academia partnerships



Others The other agencies like DBT1, DRDO2, DAE3, CSIR4, ICMR5 and

MNRE do not appear to have developed a specific program for

nanotechnology. Yet these agencies have been encouraging and

providing financial assistance to projects in nanoscience and

technology through their general funding mechanisms. DBT for

example since 2006 has supported such research through various

nanotechnology specific and non specific calls for proposals.

Projects aided have been categorised under the area of

nanoscience and technology as well as other areas (Annexure III).

CSIR has also taken up nano based research since 2003 across its

various laboratories via its network and non-network project

initiatives as well as its NIMITLI scheme. Similarly ICMR (since

2005), DRDO and DAE, have also funded research in this area

amongst the laboratories or institutes that are placed under

them. MNRE has also sustained R&D in this area through pre

existing mechanisms for aiding S&T research6. The year of

initiation of R&D in the area of nanoscience and technology is

unclear for DRDO, DAE and MNRE.

Investments in nano science and technology The Nano Science and Technology Initiative (NSTI) that

functioned from 2001-2006 led by the DST was the largest

initiative on nanotechnology in terms of funding and

implementation. It was launched with an initial budget of Rs.100

crores (approximately US$ 15-20 million). The government in

2006-2007 approved the launch of the Nanoscience and

Technology Mission with a budget of Rs.1000 crore

(approximately US$ 254 million) for a 5-year duration (2007-

2012)7. Aside from funding R&D a large parts of the

nanotechnology budget during the NSTI appears have been spent

on developing the various centres of excellence (CoEs) and

establishing laboratory infrastructure. During the NSTM tenure

it appears that copious amounts are being invested in developing

human resources in this domain.

DIT on the other hand has spent Rs 40 crore in the years 2004-

2005 and 2005-2006 and Rs.32.37 crores in 2006-2007 on its

1 Annual Report, 2006-07 and 2007-08, Department of Biotechnology 2 DRDO typhoid kit in market by mid-year, 2006, The Hindu, http://www.hindu.com/2006/01/14/stories/2006011419320200.htm http://www.dae.gov.in/# 3 http://www.dae.gov.in/# 4 Annual Report, 2006-2007, Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research 5 Indian Council of Medical Research, List of Extramural Research Fellowships(RA/ SRF) Sanctioned from April 2007 to March 2009, http://icmr.nic.in/projects/fellowshipsanc07-09.htm 6 Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, http://mnes.nic.in/ 7 Dr Vivek Srivastava, 2007, Workshop on nanotechnology: Current status and Challenges" - Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, 2007http://www.nanotech-now.com/columns/?article=083



Microelectronics and Nanotechnology Development program

respectively. While it had estimated expenditure of about Rs.29

crore in the year 2007-2008, the actual expenditure on the

program was reported as Rs.25.6 crore. It has estimated a budget

of Rs.35 crore for the year 2008-20091. A joint centre for

nanoecelectronics at IISc Bangalore and IIT Mumbai was

sanctioned 99.8 crores for 5 years while the development of

nanometrology at NPL was sanctioned around Rs 11 crore. On the

other hand it has also undertaken some nano based research in

some of its other schemes, which have additional funding.2 CSIR

is also considered to have invested approximately Rs 40 crore in

this area.

With regard to the other agencies like DBT, CSIR, ICMR, DAE,

DRDO and MNRE while overall financial outlays for these

organisations were available, information on specific budgets for

nanoscience and technology could not be sought. Therefore the

amounts invested in the nanoscience and technology domain by are

unclear. Most probably their investments would be lesser than DST

that implements the flagship program of nanotechnology in the

country. However a clear picture on the comprehensive investment

in nanotechnology is still awaited. Interestingly prior to the mission

funding it had been articulated by government spokespersons the

government alone might be unable to allocate vast sums of

investments in nanoscience and technology due to issues of

“resource crunch” and the need to concentrate (and distribute funds

across) other priority areas. In fact the need for public-private

partnerships had been espoused as an approach to facilitate pouring

of funds into nano related research and in order to harness it.

Nevertheless a ten fold increase between the amounts dedicated for

nanoscience and nanotechnology research in the NSTI (Rs.100

crore) and NSTM (Rs.1000 crore) has been observed.

Since nanotechnology covers a breadth of disciplines and also is a

cost intensive technology in terms of materials and infrastructure

needed to support research, large initial investments will be

necessitated to build capacity in this arena. The substantial boost in

funding from the NSTI to the NSTM might be primarily attributed

to several reasons the juxtaposition of which has resulted in this

policy decision augment the nanotechnology budget. India has in

the last few years has increasing its S&T budgets3. Mr

Chidambaram, the then Finance Minister of India, has stated that

in 2007-2008 the S&T budget in India has seen a 21% increase

since the previous year4. Moreover given the political and economic

1 DIT Financial outlays 2004-05, 2005-06, 2006-07, 2007-08 and 2008-09 2 DIT Annual reports http://www.mit.gov.in/default.aspx?id=879 3 P. Balaram, Budget reflections, 2005, Current Science, 88,5, http://www.ias.ac.in/currsci/mar102005/673.pdf 4 P. Chidambaram, Hon. Finance Minister, GOI, Budget in Parliament, 28thFeb. 2007 in G D Yadav (University Institute of Chemical Technology),



implications NT, the global patterns of funding in other countries

has been considered by Indian policymakers. Since India desires to

be on par with developed nations in nanotechnology to the extent

possible the large investments in the global arena has resulted in a

spill over effect in India. Simultaneously the upsurge in the Indian

scientific community’s interest in conducting nano R&D as well as

their vocal emphasis on the need to augment budgets culminated

with policy makers rethinking the earlier funding frameworks.

These reasons apart, the S&T establishment was also witness to the

lost opportunity in the domain of semiconductor manufacture1,

which India might have profited from if timely funding was

positioned amongst other aspects to encourage and nurture its

progress. Citing this reason several policymakers have asked for an

increase in nanotechnology budget so as not to lose this opportunity

to harness this technology.2

However though the present investment has ensured that

nanoscience and technology R&D has begun and is being pursued

in several institutes in India there is still a clamour for increasing

investment especially in the areas of R&D support and

infrastructure development. In general India’s S&T budget is

lower than that of several other countries (WP1 report). It has

been pointed out that some companies like those involved in

pharmaceutical related R&D allocate more to their R&D budgets.

Scientists and experts in general have called for more intensive

funding in basic research and strengthening laboratory facilities

as well as for applied research and technology development. It is

perceived that early investment could translate to cutting edge

science, international publications, technological innovations,

patents and product and process development with far reaching

implications for society. The popular view is that it would be

wise to invest sufficiently in nanotechnology at this early stage

even though a majority of these applications may be a few

decades or so in the future, to lay a foundation upon which

nanotechnology related advances might be shaped.3,4

Nevertheless it has been argued by funding agencies that the

funds allocated to nanoscience and technology are more than

sufficient to undertake the breadth and depth of research as

desired by scientists.5 It is interesting to note that in the proposed

2007, Sustainable chemistry and biotechnology activities in India, , Sus Chem 5th Stakeholder meeting, Brussels 1 Centre to set up nano-centre at JNCASR, 24th Sept 2006, The Hindu http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/24/stories/2006092403440400.htm 2 R. Ramachandran, 2006, Preparing for take-off: Indian nanotechnology, Scidev, http://www.scidev.net/en/features/preparing-for-takeoff-indian-nanotechnology.html 3 ibid 4 Narayan Kulkarni, 2006, Nanotechnology is the buzzword, http://biospectrumindia.ciol.com/content/BioBusiness/10604115.asp 5 Discussions at stakeholder dialogue ‘Nanotechnology and development’, 2007, TERI, New Delhi



budgetary outlay for DST under 11th five year plan the fund

allocation for NSTM amongst the schemes already introduced in

the 10th five year plan is second only after the ‘Drugs and

Pharmaceutical research’ (Rs.1400 crore). Therefore here it

accounted for approximately 36% of the budget allocated for the

schemes introduced in the 10th plan and proposed to be

continued in the 11th five year plan. In the same budget outlay

when the continued funding for the schemes in the 10th plan and

funding for new schemes in the 11th five plan are taken together,

the NSTM is placed third, the new addition in between being the

‘National Campaign for Talent Fostering and Innovation

Building’ (Rs. 1300 crore).1 Then the NSTM accounts for around

19% of the combined budget allocated for schemes in the 10th

plan together with new ones to be introduced in the 11th plan2. It

therefore appears that the nanoscience and technology domain

does hold prominent funding amongst the areas that the DST

would like to pursue strengthening R&D in.

Amongst other agencies like DBT, CSIR, DAE, DRDO, MNRE the

lack of a formal scheme for the nanoscience and technology area

(unlike DST and DIT) as well as the support of nano based

projects under diverse heads in these agencies has probably

prevented separate budgetary allocations for this area in these

organisation at least on paper. It is possible that nanoscience or

technology projects are being funded on a one to one basis or an

adhoc manner based on the credibility of the project under other

R&D areas. On the other hand it is possible that internal or

informal budgets have been conceived for this area in these

individual agencies but are not reflected in the formal documents

for budget outlays due the aforementioned reason. The

investments by agencies other than DST might not be in as large

in magnitude as funding contributed by DST in the NSTM,

nonetheless they are also driving significant developments on the

ground in terms of developing abilities in nanotechnology in their

niche areas.

1 Report of the Steering Committee on Science and Technology for Eleventh Fiver Year Plan (2007-2012), December 2006, Government of India, Planning Comission 2 Planning Commission, 2006, The report of the Streeing Committee on Science and Technology for Eleventh Fiver Year Plan (2007-2012), GoI


CHAPTER 2 Nanotechnology and development issues in

India

Nanotechnology has the potential to be utilised as a tool to

address key development related challenges in diverse sectors

like energy, water agriculture, health, environment etc. This

chapter focuses specifically on three sectors- energy, water and

agriculture. It explores the development related challenges

within each sector in India and describes the R&D being

undertaken in the nano domain that might aid in addressing

them.

Nanotechnology and Energy in India Challenges in the energy sector in India

India ranks fifth in the world in total energy consumption where

more than 25% of primary energy is met through import 1. The

very high growth trajectories of Indian industries have

accelerated development of energy resources. Though India’s

hydrocarbon resource is seemingly negligible (0.4% of world’s

reserves), it is endowed with abundant renewable energy in the

form of solar, wind, hydel and bioenergy resources. In India, the

due recognition of renewable energy during oil crisis in mid

1970s followed by sustained efforts and major initiatives taken

at the national level resulted in significant growth of renewable

based power installed capacity.

Globally, India ranks 2nd after China in biogas development and

4th in wind energy development2 . Short term goal has been set

by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to achieve a

minimum 10% share or ~ 24000 MW from renewable power

generation by 2012. The current installed capacity is ~13,450.59

MW Power3. Major contributors in power generation are wind

(9521 MW), small hydro (~2220 MW), biomass resources

(1622MW) along with power through distributed generation in

industrial and commercial sectors (222 MW). In addition, India

has 15 lakhs installations of solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems in

form of street lighting systems, solar lanterns, home lighting

and solar powered pumping apart from standalone units. The

installation of biogas plants has reached over 4 millions and

solar water heating systems equivalent to 2.3 million –m2

collector area have been installed4.

1 http://cii.in 2 Akshay Urja, Vol 2 Issue 1 Sep-Oct 2008, MNRE, India, http://www.mnes.nic.in 3 Ibid 4 http://www.mnes.nic.in



India is now fourth largest wind power producer in the world

and uses indigenoeously developed technologies. Centre for

Wind Energy Technology (C-WET), a knowledge based R& D

institute, set by MNRE is engaged in testing and licencing the

technologies developed by Indian wind industries like Suzlon

Energy Limited, Vestas Wind Technology India Pvt Ltd, RRB

Energy Ltd., Enercon India Ltd and promote commercialization

of their products in Indian market 1.

Solar energy on the other hand, currently contributes less than

0.1 percent of the total installed renewable energy capacity in

India (2.12 MW). However, with the unveiling of National

Climate Change Action Plan 2008, which will be implemented

through eight missions having solar energy mission as one of

them, the SPV research has taken the centre stage of R&D

initiatives . A roadmap for development of PV technology in the

country is also under preparation which indicates that solar

R&D is going to get a clear direction from the time now on. It is

worthwhile to mention here that, among the renewable sources

though MNRE’s emphasis is equally on both solar and wind, the

wind technology have been developed at a faster rate as being

more cost effective and is already mature. Progress in solar

power on the other hand has been slower due to the higher cost

and the non-fully developed technology. Large initiatives have

been taken both in Govt and public sectors; however the

technology for large scale power generation is not yet fully

developed.

The Solar Energy Centre has been established by Government of

India as a part of MNRE to undertake activities related to

design & development, testing, standardization, training and

information dissemination in the field of Solar Energy. MNRE

has undertaken long term policies in implementing technologies

for distributed power generation through solar as well as

biomass gasifier based power production systems.

How nanotechnology can address these challenges Enabling energy storage, production and conversion within

renewable energy frameworks has been cited as the primary

area where nanotechnology applications might aid developing

countries. Examples of nanotechnology based interventions

include photovoltaic cells and organic light-emitting devices

based on quantum dots as well as carbon nanotubes in

composite film coatings for solar cells. In the area of hydrogen

fuel nanocatalysts for hydrogen generation and novel hydrogen

storage systems based on carbon nanotubes and other

lightweight nanomaterials have been cites as potential

1 http://www.cwet.tn.nic.in



applications1. Nanotechnology can enable cost effective solar

and fuel cells with higher efficiency. Safe and efficient ways to

store hydrogen as well as improvements in batteries and

supercapacitors could also be made possible using

nanomaterials. Nanomaterials could also facilitate energy

saving through nanomaterials aided efficient lighting (LEDs),

nanocatalysts that improve combustion processes and also

better insulation materials2. Overall nanotechnology

interventions could enable the successful development of

renewable energy solutions and reduce our dependence on

fossil fuels.

International developments A major area of R&D focus in the nano domain for countries at

the global platform is in the arena of solar photovoltaics. USA,

Europe, Japan and China spear head the research in SPV. In

USA, the PV technology roadmaps were developed well ahead in

2007, whereas, the future roadmaps for Intermediate-Band PV,

Multiple-Exciton-Generation PV and Nano-Architecture PV

have already been drafted 311. In Multiple-Exciton-Generation

PV, the roadmap aimed at developing solar cells based on

inorganic semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) – such as spherical

quantum dots (QDs), quantum rods (QRs), or quantum wires

(QWs) – focusing on their potential to improve the single-

junction Photovoltaic (PV) solar cell efficiency drastically from

33.7% to 44.4%4 . The Nano-Architecture roadmap on the other

hand targets to develop solar cells with nanocomponents like

nanowires, nanotubes, and nanocrystals etc. as absorbers or

transporters 5. These technologies are mostly in the early

demonstration stage compared to more matured technologies,

like Si, CdTe, and CIGS 6. A new methodology have been

adopted for targeted materials science and process engineering

research by universities in support of industry-led teams to

facilitate commercialization of new PV systems by 2010 to 2015.

Next Generation PV projects are launched in 2007 as an out

come of US Department of Energy’s (DOE) call for projects on

"Next Generation Photovoltaic Devices and Processes" for

making innovative Photovoltaic cells and/or processes by 2015 7.

1 Salamanca-Buentello F, Persad DL, Court EB, Martin DK, Daar AS, et al. (2005) Nanotechnology andthe developing world. PLoS Med 2(4): e97.

2 Dr. Ulrich Sutter, Dr. Jonathan Loeffler (Steinbeis-Europa-Zentrum, Karlsruhe, Germany), 2006, Nanomaterial Roadmap 2015, Roadmap Report Concerning the Use of Nanomaterials in the Energy Sector, funded by the European Commission 3 W aldau, A. J., 2008, PV Status Report 2008, EUR 23604EN; http://europa.eu 4 Ibid 5 Ibid 6 Ibid 7 Ibid



The European Commission’s R&D activities were geared with

multiannual Framework Programmes (FP) started during 1980.

Under the ongoing 7th EC Framework Programme (2007-

2013), focus has been given for developing high efficiency

integrated and intelligent concentrating PV modules and

systems 1. This is targeted towards developing and

demonstrating next generation solar cells using quantum dot

systems, intermediate band materials and InGa. The European

Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET-PLAN) released in

November 2007 has brought solar under one of the 6 European

initiatives which will focus on scale demonstration for

Photovoltaics and concentrated solar power in Europe 2.

In the area of wind energy, research on using nanomaterials for

superior and lighter wind turbine blades is also being

undertaken3.

Nanotechnology R&D in the energy sector in India Much like in other countries, nanotechnology based

interventions in solar energy systems is one of the prominent

areas of focus in India. The aim is to improve the overall SPV

process efficiency, reduce the cost of solar cells and search for

alternate semiconductors in lieu of the soaring shortage of

silicon. The SPV research in India is primarily aimed on

developing new materials, processes, device structures &

modules using multicrystalline silicon, thin films, polymers,

nanoparticles, nano rods, quantum dots etc. Aside SPVs,

reseach in energy storage devices and efficient lighting systems

is also being undertaken.

Premier research institutes have been engaged in different areas

of SPV research with financial supports from MNRE and DST.

The activity areas of the institutes are presented below. Some of

the R&D undertaken in this area is described below (Table 2.1)

At present, various govt. and private companies like CEL, BEL,

BHEL, Moserbaer Photovoltaic, TATA-BP Solar, Maharishi

solar Technology, Signet Solar India and many others are

making advanced multicrystalline and thin film solar cells and

panels using indigenous and imported technologies. Yet it

appears that industry- university interactions in India are not as

strong as in other countries. Therefore, product development

and product commercialization might be under emphasized.

In wind power, the current R&D focus is primarily on

technology upgradation and developing indigenous MW-scale

1 W aldau, A. J, PV Status Report 2008, Joint Research Centre, European Commission, Report No. EUR 23604 EN-2008, http://europa.eu 2 Ibid 3 http://www.eagle.fi



Wind Electric generators (WEGs), small WEGs suitable for

generating power at very low cut in speeds (~ 2 to 2.5 m/sec).

The importance of R&D on carbon fiber and other new

generation composites has been identified in the 11th National

plan (2007-2012). However research or product development

in wind energy with nano component has yet to be reported in

India 1.

Table 2.1 R&D in nanotechnology and energy in India

Broad Area Focus Location

Development of Poly Crystaline Si &

thin film solar cells Nanocrystalline Si thin films NPL-New Delhi, IIT Kanpur

Hybrid solar cell with SWNT with Si IACS, Jadavpur, Kolkatta

Hybrid solar cell Hybrid solar cell with Nanostructured

CdTe Anna University, Chennai

New Semiconductors as substitute

for silicon in solar cells

Si-PbSe Quantum dots & organic

solar cell

IIT Bombay, IISc Bangalore, NPL,

University of Delhi

Photoactive glass-fullerene

nanocomposites CGCRI, Kolkatta

New generation material

development for -PV arrays and

solar cells

Dye sensitized nanaocrystalline

TiO2 thin films, CdS nanorods for PV

applications

IACS, Kolkatta

Energy Storage devices CNT based Supercapacitors JNCASR, IISC, Bangalore

Efficient Lighting Systems for LED

Applications Nanocrystalline GaN films Jadavpur University, Kolkatta

Source: http://www.nplindia.org, http://www.iitk.ac.in, http://www.iacs.res.in,

http://www.annauniv.edu, http://www.iitb.ac.in/~crnts, http://iisc.ernet.in,

http://www.cgcri.res.in, http://www. Jncasr.ac.in, http://www.jadavpur.edu

Overall the larger emphasis being placed on the development

SPVs in India has continued within the R&D domain at the

junctures of nanotechnology and energy. However the

nanointervention in SPV research is still in the development

and early demonstration stage, with basic research being more

predominant. Unlike in developed countries where networking

in solar and nano R&D is visible, in India stronger interaction

between industry and academia is needed to facilitate

commercialization of the indigenous systems developed by

academic and research institutes in India. Since R&D in

developed country appears to be ahead of that in India, effective

international collaborations with groups it might be prudent to

enhance knowledge transfer and avoid duplicative research.

As India is still on the learning curve in terms of

nanotechnology in the SPV and other arenas the scope for

innovation in nano research is vast to address the basic

challenges in India. However a clear strategy for including

nanotechnology in renewable energy technologies and others

needs to be devised.

1 MNRE Annual Report 2008; http://www.mnes.nic.in



Nanotechnology and water in India Challenges in the water sector in India

Water availability has been a problem as a result of rising

population, rapid urbanization, growing industrialization and

expanding agriculture. The annual per capita availability of

fresh water during first 50 years of independence (1947-1997)

fell from 6000 m3 to 2300 m3 (1). At this rate, the country is

predicted to face an acute water shortage by 2050. Water

scarcity in many parts of the country is largely due to the

uneven availability of water across different regions of India.

Total demand for water is also rapidly increasing. Its use for

irrigation constitutes a major part of the demand followed by its

use for domestic and industrial purposes2. A considerable

portion of this demand is met by groundwater and this has led

to overexploitation of ground water in some areas.

Water quality is a major problem in both ground water and

surface water. Although in their upper reaches most rivers are

of good quality, the middle and lower reaches of almost all

rivers face major degradation.

Some of the key pollutants and their sources are summarized

below.

Microbial contamination (faecal): Such contamination

mainly arises from inadequately treated or untreated sewage. A

lack of sanitation and sewage treatment facilities in mainly rural

and to some extent even in urban setups is the main cause for

this.

Heavy metals: Heavy metal contaminated waste water from

industrial activities such as electroplating, textile dyeing,

tanneries etc reach the surface or ground water sources if it’s

inadequately treated. In addition leaching from solid waste

dumps (e.g. fly ash ponds, sludge from above industries) also

contributes towards heavy metal accumulation.

High salinity: This arises from decreasing groundwater levels

and seawater intrusion. This is also aggravated by agricultural

run offs, which are rich in salts.

Arsenic, fluoride, nitrate in specific locations: These

contaminants enter the groundwater aquifers from their

presence in the sediments of the region. This has been further

aggravated by excessive groundwater withdrawals. There is also

a view that arsenic contamination is from pesticides containing

1 Looking back to think ahead

2 Sinha A K. 2003. Sustainability of India’s Water Resources: Challenges & Perspectives, Sustainable Development International, 4, 129-133. http://www.sustdev.org/journals/edition.04/download/ed4.pdfs/sdi4_129.pdf



lead arsenate and copper arsenite. The extent of contamination

and its spread in increasing in eastern parts of India1.

Micropollutants: these include pesticides, endocrine

disrupting substances, surfactants. These arise from

agricultural run offs and from sewage. With change in lifestyles

and increasing use of personal care products especially in urban

areas, such contamination is increasing.

Altogether the cost of environmental damage is estimated to be

$9.7 billion per year, of which the most vital is the health

impacts of water pollution accounting for 59% of the total value

of degradation2.

How nanotechnology might address these challenges Water treatment and remediation has been cited as the third most critical area where nanotechnology applications might aid developing countries. Some of the interventions include

� Nanomembranes for water purification, desalination, and

detoxification

� Nanosensors for the detection of contaminants and

pathogens

� Nanoporous zeolites, nanoporous polymers, and attapulgite

clays for water purification

� Magnetic nanoparticles for water treatment and remediation

� TiO2 nanoparticles for the catalytic degradation of water

pollutants3

Nanotechnology interventions might be sought at specific

junctures to allievate the following challenges.

Improve quantity and quality of water and wastewater

treatment systems: The water treatment systems need to

address the removal of contaminants present in the surface and

ground water in order to provide potable drinking water. Many

technologies exist such as candle filter, biosand filter, activated

carbon, UV and chemical based systems4. These have been

found suitable for contaminant removal from water; however,

the performance can be improved and systems made more

efficient by use of nanotechnology.

In the case of wastewater, the sewage treatment facilities need

to be expanded. Based on the requirements and constraints

(land availability, cost etc.) a suitable technology from the

1 Mukherjee A, Sengupta M K, Hossain M A, Ahamed S1 , Das B, Nayak B, Lodh D, Rahman M M, and Chakraborti D. 2006. Arsenic Contamination in Groundwater: A Global Perspective with Emphasis on the Asian Scenario, J.Health Popul Nutr, 24(2), 142-163. 2 Brandon, Carter, and Homman K. 1996. The cost of Inaction. Valuing the Economy-wide Loss of Environmental Degradation in India, Washington: World Bank. 3 Salamanca-Buentello F, Persad D L, Court E B, Martin D K, Daar A S, Singer P A. 2005. Nanotechnology and the developing world. PLoS Med, 2(4): e97. 4 http://www.merid.org/nano/waterworkshop/assets/watertechpaper.pdf?



available high end (membrane bio reactor) to low end

(constructed wetlands) can be selected. Nanotechnology has a

role to play in improving the tertiary treatment. Companies

such as Madras Fertilizers Limited (MFL), Chennai, GMR

Power Corporation, Chennai, and Hindustan Petroleum

Corporation Limited, Mumbai have set up facilities for

reclaiming and reusing city sewage water after tertiary

treatment1. In case of HPCL, the annual operating cost is nearly

one-sixth the cost of municipal freshwater supplied to

industries in Mumbai. Use of technologies such as adsorption,

nanofiltration, CNT filters etc. the treated water quality can be

improved for reuse.

Desalination is one of the options for generating fresh water.

Since 90s large commercial units, particularly in process

industries in water scarce western and southern India, have

adopted desalination systems to ensure reliable & adequate

water supply. The growth of desalination systems now covers

the entire range of small units to large plants; further, both

thermal & membrane processes are in use2. In several areas, the

groundwater is brackish due to seawater ingression or excessive

groundwater abstraction. Thus, desalination plants for brackish

water treatment have also been installed in several industries

located in such regions. The conventional treatment routes are

reverse osmosis (RO) and distillation. Use of renewable energy,

use of waste heat and new technologies such as membrane

distillation need to be explored further. CNT has also been

identified as suitable for RO and as an alternative to RO. CNT

has the advantages of good strength,stability and high flow rates 3.

Nanotechnology R&D in the water sector in India � Nano silver based products have been introduced in point-

of-use water treatment systems. Two products are known viz.

o Incorporation of nano silver in traditional candle filters

for disinfection4. The coating technology has been

developed at The International Advanced Research

Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials

(ARCI), Hyderabad. ARCI is an autonomous R&D

Centre of Government of India‘s Department of Science

and Technology (DST). About 100 such nanosilver

coated candles have been field tested over an 8 month

period with both pond water and locally treated water.

The technology has been transferred to SBP Aquatech

1 http://www.iupac.org/publications/ci/1999/march/india.html 2 http://www.merid.org/nano/waterworkshop/assets/watertechpaper.pdf? 3 ibid 4 http://www.indiawaterportal.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/nano.doc



Pvt. Ltd. Hyderabad which will mass produce and

market the candle filters.

o Nano silver based carbon blocks have been employed for

pesticide removal1. The nano-silver activated carbon

block has been developed in collaboration with IIT,

Chennai and is being marketed by Eureka Forbes as part

of its new water purifier, Aquaguard Total Gold Nova.

The treatment scheme includes UV disinfection, along

with adsorption on nano silver based activated carbon

blocks. This water purifier was launched in early 2008

and costs Rs 9,000-10,000.

o Coating on catalyst for microorganism control (IICT,

Hyderabad) the group has developed nano silver coated

alumina catalyst using electrochemical method. These

catalysts were found to be efficient for microorganism

control in water2.

� Other nanotechnology interventions being developed are

listed below.

o CNT filters have been prepared and tested successfully

for bacteria removal3. This was a joint research effort by

Banaras Hindu University Varanasi and Rensselaer

Polytechnic Institute USA. More recently, CNT based

water filters have also been developed and tested on the

laboratory scale by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre

(BARC), Mumbai4.

o Nano iron oxide / mixed oxide for arsenic removal (IIT

Kharagpur, Presidency College, Kolkata) In the study by

IIT Kharagpur iron oxide nano particles were

synthesized with using chemical method with an average

size of 45 nm. Under the experimental conditions

studies, maximum adsorption of 96% was obtained5. In

another study nano iron-titanium oxide was used.

Sorption test using a fixed bed column gave water with

arsenic content less than 0.01 mg/L6.

1 http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2008/02/27/stories/2008022751082300.h

tm 2 Shashikala V, Siva Kumar V, Padmasri A H, David Raju B, Venkata Mohan S, Nageswara Sarma P and Rama Rao K S. 2007. Advantages of nano-silver-carbon covered alumina catalyst prepared by electro-chemical method for drinking water purification, Journal of Molecular Catalysis A: Chemical, 268, 1-2, 95-100. 3 Srivastava A, Srivastava O N, Talapatra S, Vajtai R, Ajayan P M. 2004. Carbon

Nanotube Filters, Nature Materials, 3, 610-614. 4Kar S, Bindal R C, Prabhakar S, Tewari P K, Dasgupta K, Sathiyamoorthy D. 2008. Potential of carbon nanotubes in water purification: an approach towards the development of an integrated membrane system, International Journal of Nuclear Desalination, 3(2), 143–150. 5 De D, Mandal S M, Bhattacharya J, Ram S, Roy S K. 2009. Iron oxide nanoparticle-assisted arsenic removal from aqueous system, Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part A, 44 (2), 155 – 162. 6 Gupta K and Ghosh U C. 2009. Arsenic removal using hydrous nanostructure iron(III)–titanium(IV) binary mixed oxide from aqueous solution, Journal of Hazardous Materials, 161(2-3), 884-892.



o Nano catalyst / photo catalysts for water (BITS, Goa;

ARCI, Hyderabad; ARI, Pune) Use of Fe-Ni nano

catalyst was found effective for degradation of orange G

dye in water1. Nano TiO2 photo catalyst have been

studied for removal of chlorophenol2, bisphenol3, metal

ions4, nitrobenzenes5.

Altogether in the water purification sector, international NT

developments are targeted at efficient removal of specific

contaminants, improving efficiency of treatment processes.

Thus, the research agenda is not much different from that of the

developing countries. However, product customization (such as

filtration without having access to electricity) and cost issues

would need to be addressed for bringing forth applications in

developing countries.

While some of the research concerning nanomaterial aided

filters and pollutant removal is still at the laboratory stage, two

known complete systems incorporating nanomaterials (e.g.

ARCI’s nanosilver coated candles and Eureka Forbes activated

carbon blocks with nanosilver) have been developed.

It is interesting to note that the ARCI based filters were field

tested in 40 villages in the vicinity of Hyderabad. Therefore a

clear emphasis on serving the needs of rural masses (the

majority of whom have to grapple with the water quality issues)

appears to have been developed. However it is unclear if this

particular system is being marketed to rural or urban

environments. On the other hand the system developed by

Eureka Forbes appears to have been developed for urban

populations. Nevertheless point-of-use water treatment systems

being developed in India are targeting both urban and rural

markets. In this context, simple systems which do not require

electricity for their operation (e.g. Aquasure from Eureka Forbes

Ltd., Pureit from Hindustan Unilever Ltd. etc) have been

developed for areas where electricity availability is a problem6.

Further, some of these companies are also examining

community based treatment units (e.g. for removal of specific

1 Bokare A D, Chikate R C, Rode C V, Paknikar K M. 2007. Effect of surface chemistry of Fe-Ni nanoparticles on mechanistic pathways of azo dye degradation, Environmental Science & Technology, 41 (21), 7437-7443. 2 Venkatachalam N, Palanichamy M and V. Murugesan. 2007. Sol–gel preparation and characterization of alkaline earth metal doped nano TiO2: Efficient photocatalytic degradation of 4-chlorophenol, Journal of Molecular Catalysis A: Chemical, 273 (1-2), 177-185 3 Venkatachalam N, Palanichamy M, Arabindoo B and Murugesan V. 2007. Alkaline earth metal doped nanoporous TiO2 for enhanced photocatalytic mineralisation of bisphenol-A, Catalysis Communications, 8 (7), 1088-1093. 4 Aarthi T and Madras G. 2008. Photocatalytic reduction of metals in presence of combustion synthesized nano-TiO2, Catalysis Communications, 9 (5), 630-634.

5 Priya M H and Madras G. 2006. Photocatalytic degradation of nitrobenzenes with combustion synthesized nano-TiO2, Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A: Chemistry, 178 (1), 1-7. 6 http://www.indiaprwire.com/pressrelease/retail/200804158757.htm



contaminants like fluoride, arsenic etc.) which are housed in

rural areas. Thus, rural networks either exist or are being

created. Therefore nanotechnology aided interventions might be

a part of these technologies in the future.

Nanotechnology and agriculture in India

Challenges in the agriculture sector in India Agriculture sector contributes significantly to the national

economy and S&T has played a significant role in increasing

agricultural productivity over the years. An extensive

agricultural research system with a widespread extension

machinery and government policy has enabled the agriculture

sector to respond to the increasing demand for agricultural

produce. However, in recent decades the agricultural scenario

has witnessed several challenges like declining farm

profitability, depletion of natural resources, resurgence of new

pests and diseases, global warming and climate change. With

increasing population there is further pressure on this sector to

meet the growing food demand. In order to address these

issues, there is a need to focus on research, technology

generation and diffusion along with human resources

development. Towards this end the conventional research

approaches need to be supplemented by new S&T interventions

that are cost and time effective.

How nanotechnology might address these challenges

Frontier cutting edge technology like nanotechnology is one

such emerging area in S&T, which holds significant promise for

agriculture .1 Enhancement of agricultural productivity has been

identified as the second most critical area of application of

nanotechnology for attaining the millennium development

goals2. Box2.1 enlists some of the critical issues related to

agriculture in India and the potential nanotechnology solutions

to these issues.

1 Roco, Mihail C. (2003). Broader societal issues of nanotechnology. Journal of Nanoparticle Research. 5:3-4, August, 181-189. 2 Slamanca-Buentello F, DL Persad, EB Court, DK Martin, AS Daar, and Peter A. Singer (2005). Nanotechnology and the Developing World. PLoS Med 2(5): e97. Available at, doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.0020097



Box 2.1: Issues in agriculture and nanotechnology options 1. Lower agricultural input efficiency

• Nanofertilizers for slow release and efficient use of water and fertilizers by plants

• Nanocides – pesticides encapsulated in nanoparticles for controlled release, and

nanoemulsions for greater efficiency

• Delivery of nutrients and drugs for livestock and fisheries

2. Unsustainable farm management

• Nanoparticles for soil conservation

• Nanosensors for soil quality and for plant health monitoring, and for precision

agriculture, controlled environment agriculture.

• Nanobrushes and membranes for soil and water purification

• Nanomagnets for removal of soil contaminants

3. Agricultural productivity enhancement

• Genetic improvements of plants and animals

• Delivery of genes and drug molecules to specific sites at cellular levels in plants and

animals

• Nano-array based gene technologies for gene expressions in plants and animals under

stress conditions

4. Vulnerabilities to climate change due to global warming

• Nano based gene technologies in crops bred to withstand heat, salt, submergence or

water logging.

Nanotechnology might also serve the food packaging industry

through use of nanomaterials in food packaging for enhanced

protection of foodstuffs, nano sensors for detection of food

spoilage and nanobarcodes to track identity and quality of

packaged foods.

International developments The potential of nanotechnology in agriculture can be gauged

from the developments in research that have taken place in the

developed countries. Research in these countries has shown

that nanotechnology can enhance our understanding of biology

of different crops and thus has the potential to advance

agricultural productivity through genetic improvements of

plants.1 2 In addition, nanotechnology has enabled delivery of

genes and drug molecules to specific sites at the cellular level3.

Also, gene expressions under stress conditions using nano-array

based gene technologies has been envisaged upon to overcome

the biotic and abiotic stress conditions in plants.

1 Kuzma, J (2007). Moving forward responsibly: Oversight for the nanotechnology-biology interface. Journal of Nanoparticle Research.9:165-182. 2 Scott, NR (2007). Nanoscience in Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Research Communications.31 (Suppl.) 139-144. 3 Maysinger, Dusica (2007). Nanoparticles and cells: good companions and doomed partnerships.Org.Biomol.Chem.5:2335-2342.



Genetic engineering of plants, microbes and animals has many

technical limitations and hurdles1, which could be addressed

successfully by nanobiotechnology. By using nanoparticles,

nanofibres and nanocapsules, rather than using viral vectors, to

carry foreign DNA and chemicals into cells, nanobiotechnology

offers a new set of tools for genetic manipulation of plants2.

Nanobiotechnology has been used by researchers at Chiang Mai

University in Thailand to alter the rice colour and develop rice

varieties that can be grown all year long3. Also it has been

reported that nanobiotechnology has been used to genetically

alter golden rice4.

Nanotechnology has also found application potential in making

agricultural systems “smart”5 by early diagnosis of plant health

issues before they become visible. Such nanoscale devices will

act as both a preventive and an early warning system.

Furthermore, such smart devices can be used for targeted and

controlled delivery of agrochemicals. Usage of technological

innovations like encapsulation and controlled release methods

has resulted in increase in pesticide use efficiency thus,

revolutionizing the use of agrochemicals. Some of the world’s

largest agrochemical corporations are engaged in the

development of nano-reformulations of existing chemical

emulsions. For example, Syngenta is using nano emulsions in

its pesticide products. It has also been selling its nano-

formulated “Primo MAXX” plant growth regulator for several

years. This growth regulating product if applied prior to the

onset of stress conditions such as heat, drought or, disease can

help plants to withstand these stresses.

Nanotechnology R&D in the agriculture sector in India

In India, the Government has recognized the importance of

research and development in nanotechnology and accordingly

investments have been made to engage with and harness

benefits from such emerging technologies.

1 Zhang Y, Y Zhang, J Chen, H Zhang, Y Zhang, L Kong, Y Pan, J Liu, and J Wang (2006). A novel gene delivery system: Chitosan-carbon nanoparticles. Nanoscience 11(1):1-8. 2 Torney F, B Trewyn , V Lin, and K Wang (2007). Mesoporous silica nanoparticles deliver DNA andchemicals into plants. Nature Nanotechnol 2:295-300. 3 ETC Group (2004). Down on the Farm. Available at: http://www.etcgroup.org 4 AzoNano (2003). Nanofibers to be used in drug delivery, gene therapy, crop engineering and environmental monitoring. Available at: http://www.azonano.com/details.asp?ArticleID=114 5 Joseph T, Morrison M (2006). Nanotechnology in Agriculture and Food. Nanoforum Report. Available at: http://www.nanoforum.org/dateien/temp/nanotechnology%20in%20agriculture%20and%20food.pdf?08122006200524



Experts including this technology’s advocate Dr Kalam have felt

that nanotechnology poses great opportunity to enhance

national agricultural productivity and reduce production costs

in the face of reduced arable land, water, and workforce as well

as increased population and climatic variations1 . Even Mr.

Pawar the minister of Agriculture and food industries in his

inaugural address at ASSOCHAM’s “Fifth Knowledge

Millennium Summit B2B on Bio and Nanotechnology”

expounded on certain bio-nanotechnology interventions that

could help alleviate the problem of food security2.

A sub-group set up by the Planning Commission headed by

ICAR director-general has stated in its report that

nanotechnology such as, nano-sensors and nano-based smart

delivery systems could help ensure efficient utilization of

natural resources like water, nutrients and chemicals in

agriculture. Nano-barcodes and nano-processing could also

help monitor the quality of agricultural produce.

The report has called for the creation of a National Institute of

Nanotechnology in Agriculture (NINA) under National

Agricultural Research System. Further, the vast infrastructure

of universities and research institutes in agriculture in India

could be spruced up to engage with nanotechnology. Also,

creation of nanotechnology centres in these organizations

drawing expertise from different areas of agriculture could

provide a platform to the scientific community to explore this

technology better. Since, nanotechnology is interdisciplinary in

nature and possesses application potential in several areas of

agriculture, its successful usage would require a greater degree

of interaction and collaboration among the disciplines and

actors. In this regard, the sub-group has proposed for the

establishment of a national consortium on nanotechnology

R&D. The consortium would include, besides the proposed

NINA, several other institutes active in nanotechnology R&D

(IIT, IISc, NPL, BHU, agricultural universities, Jamia Hamdard

University, and apex scientific and research bodies).

Many of the challenges currently being faced by the agriculture

sector in India could be addressed through this technology.

Given the wide range of applications of nanotechnology in

agriculture, research in nanotechnology would require a focus

on increasing agricultural productivity, product quality and

resource use efficiencies that reduce on farm costs, raise the

value of production, and increase farm incomes and;

1 http://pib.nic.in/release/rel_print_page1.asp?relid=15766 2 Bionanotechnology will help India’s food security: Pawar, http://www.indiaprwire.com/businessnews/20070919/24555.htm, accessed 3rd June 2008



conservation of the natural resource base1. In comparison to the

developed world, where nanotechnology applications in

agriculture are progressing at a faster rate, there is a need for

developing countries to build research capability in the area and

invest in nanotechnology research. This is because agriculture

in developing countries like India is mostly practiced under

tropical conditions and thus the technologies have to be either

developed indigenously or it has to be adapted to the changed

conditions. Developing indigenous R&D capability would also

give competitive advantage to the developing countries, as there

is opportunity to patent products originating from a particular

geographical area.

Research and development in nanotechnology in agriculture has

begun however seems to be progressing at a slower pace than in

sectors like health. Table2.2 highlights some of the research that

has been supported by agencies like DST and DBT and is being

undertaken at publicly funded institutes.

Table 2.2 R&D in nanotechnology and agriculture in India

Area of Reserach Locations

Process For The Proteinassisted Nano Composite Synthesis Of Silica-Humic Acidbt Toxins-Copper (Si-Ha-Bt-Cu) As Bioencapsulated Pesticides

1. Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, 2. Central Fuel Research Institute, Jharkhand

Potential role of nanoparticles in plant Pathogen detection at early Stage and waste management

University of Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh

Nano ZnO for smart packaging 1. Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (formerly regional research laboratory, Bhubaneshwar) 2. Indian Institute of ChemicalTechnology, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh

Preparation, Characterization Of Nanoshells And Their Use To Enhance Plant Growth

Madurai Kamraj University, Madurai

Development Of Controlled Release Nanoparticulate Formulations For Pesticides And Insecticides

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Delhi University

Entomotoxic Nanoparticle Development: Insecticidal Efficacy And Biosafety Studies Metabolomics And Machine Learning Tools

Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Silver Nanoparticles - Potential applications in Sericulture

Thiruvalluvar University, Vellore

Potential use of Nanoparticles for DNA Vaccine in fish model to control becterial and viral diseases

Department of Zoology, C.Abdul Hakeem College Melvisharam Department of Inorganic Chemistry School of Chemical Sciences, University of Madras

1 Sastry, R. Kalpana, N.H. Rao, R Cahoon, T Tucker (2007). Can Nanotechnology Provide The Innovations for a Second Green Revolution in Indian Agriculture? NSF Nanoscale Science and Engineering Grantees Conference, Dec 3-6, 2007. Available at, http://www.nseresearch.org/2007/overviews/Sastry_speaker.doc



Source: http:/nanomission.gov.in,

http://dbtindia.nic.in/uniquepage.asp?id_pk=68

Some international collaboration have also been initiated to

take such R&D forward. For example, nano-formulated

herbicide designed to attack the seed coating of weeds, destroy

soil seed banks and prevent weed germination, have been

developed by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (India) and

Technologico de Monterry (Mexico)1.

Concerns have been raised about rushing for technologies and

not addressing the regulatory issues pertaining to such

emergent technology. For technology to contribute to socially

responsible development of the sector there is a need for a clear

policy on genetic transformation and regulatory and incentive

structure for this emerging field.

In this regard, to avoid future litigation related problems’

arising out of developments in nanotechnology and for

responsible development of nanotechnology in Indian

agriculture, M.S. Swaminathan, a former head of the National

Commission of Farmers in India, has called for the development

of a national regulatory commission on nanotechnology2.

Support for R&D that addresses national priorities and socio- economic development

The NSTI which was the nation’s first formal program on

nanoscience and technology concentrated on building a critical

mass of research and infrastructure in this area in the country.

However during this period President Kalam who was

instrumental in publicising the benefits of nanotechnology also

advocated the need for researchers to utilise nanotechnology’s

potential to serve the nations needs. Some significant areas

where he saw potential for developing nanotechnology

applications in context of the country’s needs are nanotube-

based solar power cells, diagnostic kits and drug delivery

systems for cancer and HIV/AIDS. This notion has been taken

forward in the NSTM that was commissioned in 2007. The

mission will apart from focusing on fundamental research also

concentrate on developing applications that address national

1 Raj, Michael (2006). Project to develop nano herbicides. TheHindu.com 21 August 2006. Available at: http://www.hindu.com/2006/08/21/stories/2006082108960100.htm, accessed 10 July 2008 2 Sreelata, M (2008). India looks to nanotechnology to boost agriculture. SciDev Net 16 May 2008, Available at: http://www.scidev.net/en/news/india-looks-to-nanotechnology-to-boost-agriculture.html, accessed 15 July 2008.



priorities in areas like safe drinking water, materials

development, sensors development, drug delivery, etc.1

DST

A tentative analysis of the projects undertaken through the

NSTI and NSTM reveals that some projects are oriented

towards applied research and application development in the

areas of health, agriculture, energy, environment etc (Table

2.3). While support for projects in the area of biotechnology and

health has been seen since 2002, support for those in the other

areas like energy, agriculture and environment and even toxicity

has increased since 2006-2007 about the time when the

mission was conceived. While there appears to be no support

for a specific project in the area of water, some of the projects

under the subhead environment involve use of nanomaterials to

clean up pollutants in water as well as treat effluent. However a

general survey of the nanotechnology projects undertaken in the

broad area of water (See section on Nanotechnology and Water

in India) reveals that research on nanomaterials in traditional

and urban water purification systems has been undertaken in

India in institutes like IIT, Chennai2 and ARCI, Hyderabad. It is

unclear if funding for these projects has come from

NSTI/NSTM or another funding mechanism of DST that is not

under the formal nanotechnology banner. It appears that

application oriented projects undertaken by DST are also

addressed to other sectors like electronics, textiles, as well as

other industrial processess. However the analysis of the DST

projects presented here is preliminary and needs to be validated

by experts from nanotechnology and the various fields that have

been addressed here.

Table 2.3 Distribution of DST sponsored nanotechnology related R&D projects

across various sectors

Year (Total no. of

projects) Health Energy Water

Agriculture & Nutrition

Environment Toxicity

2002-03 (22)

2003-04 (35) 1

2004-05 (19) 3

2005-06 (12) 1

2006-07 (18) 1 1 2 2007-2008 (45) 1 4 2 1

2008-2009 (26) 1 2 1


1 R. Ramachandran, 2006, Preparing for take-off: Indian nanotechnology, Scidev, http://www.scidev.net/en/features/preparing-for-takeoff-indian-nanotechnology.html 2 Two proposals in the area of water were placed before DST for funding in 2008. The first proposal from IIT Chennai focused on nanomaterial based water purifiers while the other aimed at investigating the use of magnetic nanomaterials for water and waste water treatment.



In the health sphere the projects supported have been in the

broad areas of drug delivery (3), tissue engineering (2), gene

therapy and nanotechnology methods for clinical oncology. In

the sphere of agriculture research that looks at applications of

nanomaterials in sericulture as well as in fisheries e.g.

developing a DNA vaccine for fish to control diseases has been

encouraged. Under energy, some of the projects for which funds

have been sanctioned include development of nanotubes for

thermoelectric applications, photocatalysts for hydrogen

generation as well as nano processing of semiconductor

nanotubes for photovoltaics and synthesis of nanomaterials for

solid fuel cells. Research that has focused on developing

nanotechnology based applications for the environment and

which have been supported by DST include nanomaterials to

remove toxins from water and air , investigations on the

potential for nano TiO2 to photodegrade organic pollutants,

nanomaterials to detect water contaminants as well as

biosequestration of heavy metals leading to nanomaterial

synthesis together with effluent decontamination (2). Studies

sustained under toxicity banner include research on the fate of

nanomaterials in biological systems as well as toxicity

assessments of ferric pyrophosphate nanoparticles.1

Amongst the approximately 103 projects aided by SERC (Table

2.4) aside from the NSTI and NSTM around 23 projects have

implications for areas like health, environment, toxicity and

energy. Research in these domains includes basic science as well

as engineering sciences.

Table 2.4 Distribution of SERC sponsored nanotechnology related R&D projects


Year (Total no. of

projects) Health Energy Environment Toxicity

2004-05 2

2005-06 2

2006-07 4 3 1

2007-08) 3 2 4 2

Source: http://dst.gov.in/scientific-programme/ser-serc.htm

Research in health has included developing nanocrystalline

composites/ biodegradable nanopolymer composites either for

drug design and biomedical applications (2), nanocrystalline

materials for bone replacement and drug delivery or drug

delivery, nanoparticle mediated delivery to cancer cell lines ,

development of nanostructured materisla for vascular grafts,

nanocomposite materisla for tissue engineering as well as

generation of nanoemulsions and nanosuspensions for

1 List of Projects sanctioned and list of proposals received, http://nanomission.gov.in/



pharmaceutical applications. In the domain of environment

nanomaterial aided sensing devices or sensors (2),

nanomaterial incorporating capacitors for zero emission

vehicles, nanoparticle aided clean up of soils, iron nanoparticles

for arsenic bioremediation, nanocatalysts for environmental

purification, development of smart materials for environmental

applications. On the other hand in the energy domain projects

that have focused on development of nanomaterials for dye

sensitized solar cells, research on nanomaterial aided dye

sensitized solar cells (2), Development and characterisation of

nanomaterials for fuel cells and other nanomaterial related

investigations (3) and thin film solar cells based on

nanomaterials have been aided. Additionally toxicological

studies on carbon nanotubes using cell lines and animal models

have also been supported.1

DBT On the other hand a preliminary analysis of the projects

supported by DBT in 2006-07 and 2007-08 (table 2.5) reveals

that applied research in the areas of water health, agriculture

and food processing, environment as well as toxicity has been

undertaken. Major areas of emphasis are health followed by

agriculture. Incidentally research in the area of water,

specifically the development of nanofilters for water purification

has also been aided.

Table 2.5 Distribution of DBT sponsored nanotechnology related R&D projects


Year (Total no. of

projects) Health Water

Agriculture & Food product

Environment Toxicity

2006-07 (20) 11 1 4 1 2007-2008

(24) 15 2 1 2

Source: http://dbtindia.nic.in/uniquepage.asp?id_pk=68

Amongst research in health sphere several projects concern

themselves with the delivery of drugs or bioactive molecules

(approximately 10-12 projects) which might help treat diseases

like cancer, retinoblastoma etc. Some also investigate the use of

nanomaterials in diagnostic applications (4) especially for

cancer and tuberculosis diagnosis. Others have focused on

development of nanomaterials for tissue engineering (3), some

specifically targeting bone and hepatic tissues. Research

supported also includes development of nanomaterials for

biomedical applications, faster wound healing, treatment of

malaria and other therapeutic applications. Some other projects

supported include investigations on the cellular interaction of

1 Lists of projects sanctioned, SERC http://dst.gov.in/scientific-programme/ser-serc.htm



nanoparticles that has implications for gene expression, drug

delivery and diagnosis as well as research on gold nanoparticles

for their use in the latter applications.

In the agriculture domain research in the areas of synthesis of

nanocomposites and nanoparticulate formulations for pesticide

applications as well as use of nanomaterials for plant pathogen

detection and plant growth have been assisted. Investigations

on nano zinc oxide particles for their role in smart packaging

have also been aided. In the area of environment a study on

linking enzymes onto carbon nanotubes for the degradation of

pollutants has been sponsored together with the development of

green nanocomposites from renewable resources. Alternatively

projects supported in the area of nanomaterial toxicity have

included toxicological studies of nanomaterials used in medical

applications as well as investigations on the eco-toxicity of

engineered nanoparticles on marine organisms.1

Others

Amongst the other R&D agencies, all the research supported by

ICMR is in the health domain as its mandate is to support

biomedical research in India. On the other hand CSIR2 also

appears to have aided health based nanotechnology research

together with DRDO to a smaller extent.3 DAE and DIT4 also

have funded some research that may have implications for the

development of nanotechnology related health applications.

Additionally DAE has also assisted research in that could play a

role developing applications in the spheres of energy and

environment.5 MNRE has also been supporting in the fields of

renewable energy6 (table 2.6).

1 List of projects approved, DBT http://dbtindia.nic.in/uniquepage.asp?id_pk=68 2 http://www.csir.res.in/ 3 DRDO typhoid kit in market by mid-year, 2006, The Hindu, http://www.hindu.com/2006/01/14/stories/2006011419320200.htm 4 Lists of ongoing projects, DIT, http://www.mit.gov.in/default.aspx?id=691 5 DAE, http://www.dae.gov.in/# 6 MNRE, http://mnes.nic.in/



Table 2.6 Distribution of DIT, CSIR, DAE, DRDO, ICMR and MNRE sponsored

nanotechnology related R&D projects across various sectors

Agency Area Examples of research supported

DIT Health � Alignment and characterisation of nanotubes for drug delivery

CSIR Health

� Synthesis of nanocrystal silica from rice husk and its use in biomedical

applications

� Nano-sized hydrographite powder for bone grafting

� Nanotechnology based tuberculosis diagnostic kit that is portable,

inexpensive and efficient to use

� Nanomaterials and nanodevices in health and disease

DAE

Health

Energy

Environment

� Synthesis of nanomaterials that provides the possibility for developing

drug delivery systems

� Hydrogen storage materials

� Nanoparticle based filters for radioactive waste processing

DRDO Health � Nanosensor based typhoid diagnostic kit

ICMR1 Health

� Nanomaterial based drug delivery and drug therapy for Alzheimer’s

disease, leishmaniasis, to improve delivery of anti-viral drugs and oral

delivery of drugs like immunosuppressants

MNRE Energy � Nannomaterials in photovoltaics, hydrogen fuel and chemical fuel cells

Source: Complied from various sources

Overall it appears that amongst the national priority areas for

development (energy, water, health agriculture, and

environment) nanotechnology’s potential is mainly being

exploited for developing applications in the health domain. This

is followed by emphasis on the development of applications in

the area of agriculture and environment. Applications in energy

and water are gaining importance gradually. Aside from

projects focusing on development of applications, the NSTM

and DBT have also begun to support research that focuses on

the toxicological aspects of nanomaterials. This is a fairly recent

development not witnessed in the initial years of

nanotechnology evolution in India. Lately a few nanobased

products have emerged in India especially in the area of health

and water. It is anticipated that the emphasis on application

oriented R&D will also lead to several of new products in the

near future in the Indian scenario. This together with the vocal

debate on the risks nanotechnologies might pose to society has

probably inclined funding agencies to build support for research

that centres on assessing the potential hazards of

nanotechnology based applications.

1 Indian Council of Medical Research, List of Extramural Research Fellowships(RA/ SRF) Sanctioned from April 2007 to March 2009, http://icmr.nic.in/projects/fellowshipsanc07-09.htm


CHAPTER 3 Policy support for nanotechnology in India

The primary role of policy-making agencies in building S&T

capacity for R&D can be observed through the following lenses:

� Funds allocated to nanoscience and technology development

� Establishment of institutions and centres for R&D

� Support to fundamental, applied research and technology

development

� Setting up of a base for developing skilled human resources

� Building infrastructure capacities

� Forging international collaborations in the area and

� Initiatives undertaken by state governments

Of the abovementioned routes, the first two have been discussed

in chapter 1. This chapter expands on the policy support

provided for promotion and development of nanotechnology in

India through the other three channels. Since policy measures

and support are being taken at various levels and departments

within the government, the following discussion provides an

overview of the policy actions taken across departments and

ministries both at the Central and state levels.

Grants for research and technology development

Various government departments and agencies, such as the DST,

DBT, DIT, CSIR, ICMR, DAE, DRDO and MNRE, have been

supporting nanoscience and technology in different spheres and

capacities. (See table 3.11) This section details the support that has

been provided to basic and applied research as well as technology

development in nanoscience and technology. Following is an

overview of the nature and scope of policy support offered by each

of the key government department and agency in this regard by way

of sponsoring research projects.

Department of Science and Technology (DST) As seen in Chapter 1, DST has been at fore in promoting

nanotechnology R&D through the NSTI and NSTM, set up with

the objective of forging an environment for scientific research in

nanoscience and nanotechnology. As the depatment’s mandate

covers diverse areas, their attention has been on rapidly

initiating and expanding the R&D base for nanotechnology.

NSTM and NSTI have to a large extent facilitated research that

enhances the understanding of the fundamental aspects of the

phenomenon at the nanoscale. A large majority of the 130 odd

projects undertaken in the NSTI have focused on basic research.

Projects on synthesis and assembly, characterization and

manipulation as well as study of the properties of nano

materials have formed a large part of the DST’s effort. In this

context a range of materials have been investigated through



DST funding, including nanoparticles, nano tubes and wires,

nanoporous solids, nanostructured alloys, quantum dots,

nanocomposites, thin films, and functional nanomaterials etc.

Significant research has taken place on materials like

semiconductor crystals and their optical properties. New routes

for synthesis of “industrially important” nanocrystals like CdS,

AlN, GaN and InN and their utilisation also have been carried

out under the NSTI. Nanoscience research that could help drive

the development of applications in areas like electronics, energy

as well as biology, health and pharmaceuticals has also been

initiated.

During the NSTI the predominant support for fundamental

research is believed to have contributed to significant advances

in the domain. For example IISc’s observation that electrical

signals are generated during the flow of various liquids and

gases in single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) bundles has

important implications for sensor development, and have been

approached by an international company for taking on

technology development in this area.1, 2 Results in another

project, focusing on micro fluidic devices might also have

significant implications for application development in the

areas of biotechnology, pharmaceutical industry, drug delivery,

intelligent pneumatic systems, information technology etc.

Focus on developing industrially relevant products and

processes in the arena of nanotechnology has spurred the

creation of public-private linkages amongst institutions and

industries. These activities aim to harness the expertise and

experience possessed by academic institutions in nanoscience

and technology and links their knowledge base to the

commercial drive of industry to develop applications. Six

institution-industry projects have been developed under the

nano mission with some financial support from the industry as

well (Table 3.1). While exact figures are not known three such

projects worth 40 crores have been initiated3.

1 R Ramchandran, 2003, A surprise from Banglore, Frontline, Volume 20 - Issue 03, http://www.physics.iisc.ernet.in/~asood/A%20surprise%20from%20Bangalore.htm 2 Discussion at Bangalore Nano 2008 3 http://nanomission.gov.in/, list of projects sanctioned in the Nanomission



Table 3.1 List of Joint Institute-Industry Projects under the Nano Mission

SL Project Industry

1. Nano Functional Materials Centre, IIT Madras Murugappa Chettiar & Orchid Pharma

2. Nano Technology Centre,Univ. of Hyderabad Dr. Reddy's Labs

3. Centre for Interactive & Smart Textiles,IIT Delhi ARCI, Hyderabad & Textile Industry

4. Centre for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, NIPER,

Chandigarh Pharma industry

5. Rubber Nanocomposites, MG University, Kottayam Apollo Tyres

6. Nanophosphor Application Centre, Univ. of Allahabad Nanotech Corp., USA

Source: http://nanomission.gov.in/

Within the NSTM, while support to basic research has received

attention, parallel emphasis has been laid on the development

of products and devices and application oriented projects. In

fact two advisory groups, Nano Science Advisory Group (NSAG)

and Nano Applications and Technology Advisory Group

(NATAG) have been created for both these aspects individually.

Large emphasis has been placed on developing applications like

DNA chips, drug delivery systems, miniaturized diagnostic kits,

etc in the health domain. Support for R&D to develop nano

filters that can be utilised for water treatment and identifying

nanomaterials for cleaning up of contaminated environments

has also been granted. Some projects in the area of agriculture

as well as energy systems such as photovoltaics and

supercapacitors coatings have also been sanctioned. Other focus

areas have been textile applications, displays, sensors data

storage and computing. Development of nanomaterials that

could play an important role across industry processes like

coatings and high strength materials have also been sponsored.

Incidentally a few studies that look at the toxicity of specific

nanomaterials have also been aided. To boost application

oriented development of the technology, the mission seeks to

establish “Nano Applications and Technological Development

Centers” and “Nanotechnology Business Incubators”. There

have also been some references to the creation of Research and

Industry Collaboration Hubs (RICH) to enable rapid

development of applications and their commercialisation.

In general close to 200 projects have been undertaken in the

NSTI and NSTM since 2002. (Annexure I). After a decline in the

number of projects after two years of the NSTI & NSTM, the

number has gone up again with 2007-2008 accounting for 25%

of the total number of projects sanctioned. (Table 3.2)1




Table 3.2 Year-wise sanction of projects by DST under NSTI and NSTM

Year Total no. of project sanctioned

2002-2003 22

2003-2004 35

2004-2005 19

2005-2006 12

2006-2007 18

2007-2008 45

2008-2009 (upto 5th Dec. 2008) 26

Total project sanctioned 177


Aside from NSTI and NSTM, SERC (Science and Engineering

Research Council) toohave aided projects on nanoscience and

technology Support for these projects has been through its

general R&D schemes for basic science and engineering science

as well as through projects sanctioned under fast track for

young scientists. Once again emphasis is on developing and

characterising a variety of nanomaterials, especially those that

have application in chemical or manufacturing industries. Some

research has also been undertaken in the areas of health,

energy, environment and even toxicity studies. For a complete

list of SERC projects, see Annexure II.1

Department of Biotechnology (DBT) Department of Biotechnology is another key department under

the Ministry of Science and Technology. Although, the

department was set up primarily for the development of modern

biology and biotechnology in India, it has been active in other

technologies like nanotechnology as well. DBT held

consultations for roadmap on nanotechnology and its

application in medicine and diagnostics2 as early as August

2004. In the same year, a call for proposals in the domain of

medical biotechnology and health care featured

nanobiotechnology as a focus area. In 2006, Pawan Kumar

Bansal, Minister of State for Finance had announcedthat the

government would develop a nano-biotechnology policy3.

Eventhough such a policy has not been formulated as yet, it

reflects the policy approach to harness the tremendous potential

nanotechnology and biotechnology holds for sectors such as

agriculture and horticulture as well as energy, water etc. This

approach has however been adequately illustrated in the calls

for proposal issued by the DBT. Since 2006 the department has

issued four calls for proposals relating to nanotechnology in the

1 http://dst.gov.in/scientific-programme/ser-serc.htm 2 http://pgimer.nic.in/annrep38part2.pdf 3 Nano-biotech policy soon; ECONOMY BUREAU, Posted online: Thursday, March 30, 2006 at 0047 hours IST http://www.techbizindia.com/newsletters/030406/pharma_biotech.htm



fields of agriculture, including nutrition and mitigating soil

pollution, biology, nanobiotechnology, drug delivery systems

and medicine for both fundamental research and technology

development. Besides, even the calls ongeneral areas appear to

be inclined to support nanoscience and technology research.

There has been a focus on developing industrial products in

public or private domains and create public-private

partnerships for drug and biomolecule delivery. Another central

area of these calls has been to develop an understanding of the

ways in which nanomaterials and nanoscale systems interact

with cells and tissues for insights into aspects relating to their

functions and toxicity. Studies focusing on toxicological aspects

of potential bio-nano materials and products being developed in

these areas are being encouraged. The most recent call focuses

on nano-agriculture and nanomedicine. DBT has been

promoting research in other areas like the use of nanomaterials

in biotechnology processes, such as, sequencing and

introduction of DNA, applications for water treatment, defence

and aid for relief. (Table 3.3).

Like DST, DBT has supported several research projects across

sectors and applications. In the year 2007-2008, 42 sanctioned

projects were reported to be in the areas such as drug delivery

and diagnostics, cancer therapy, water purification,

environmental management, pesticide delivery, amongst

others1. (See Annex III) DBT has designated different thematic

areas under their R&D programme focussing on areas like

research in modern biology, biodiversity conservation and

environment, medical biotechnology, biotechnology of

biofertizers, microbial and industrial biotechnology. Presently

research support has been granted for projects that are engaged

in researching nanomaterial use for drug delivery2 and cancer

therapy3 nanobiotechnology for therapeutics.4.

Under the DBT calls, interdisciplinary research is highlighted as

an essential requirement for approval of projects. Interdisciplinary

aspects R&D proposals across disciplines like cellular and

molecular biology, physics, chemistry, engineering, material

sciences have been stressed upon.

1 Annual reports DBT 2006-07, 2007-08, http://dbtindia.nic.in/uniquepage.asp?id_pk=68 2 http://www.sankaranethralaya.org/re_nano.htm. 3 http://www.annauniv.edu/ctdt/contents/technology/biotech.html 4 Research at the Center for Research in Nanotechnology & Science (CRNTS) at IIT Bombay, IIT Kharagpur, Punjab University, Peryyar Maniammai University, Tamilnadu, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi and the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)



Table 3.3 Calls for proposals on nanotechnology by DBT

Year Call for proposals by DBT related to nanoscience and

technology

Implied areas of interest/ Specified focus areas

2006 Call for concept paper for nanotechnology application

in agriculture

Nanosensors development to detect contaminants & pathogens; nanomembranes

for controlled pesticide release; decontamination of food processing equipment;

remediation of polluted water for irrigation use.

2007 Call for proposals on knowledge based nanoscience

and nanotechnology for application in biology

Tissue and bone regeneration, wound healing, drug and drug delivery,

therapeutics, nanomaterials to study cell processes, biomimetic membranes,

diagnostics, biosensors, biochips to detect pathogenic organisms and diseases,

protein based nanoparticles, nanomaterial applications in food industry, light

weight food packaging material etc.

Toxicological studies of materials developed.

2008 Call for pre-proposal on nanobiotechnology /

nanoparticle-mediated drug / biomolecule delivery

and their toxicological studies: in public, private and

public-private partnerships towards development of

industrial products; study of their basic mechanism of

action and conduct toxicological studies.

Nano drug delivery, encapsul;ation of drugs in nanoparticulate forms to improve

their shelf life , bioavailability and half life of drugs; manipulation of

nanoparticulate forms to develop novel functions.

Nanotoxicology- biokinetic, epidemiological and toxicological studies; toxicological

studies of commercialized and novel nanomaterials based drug and biomolecule

delivery systems.

2009 4th call for pre proposals in the areas of nanomedicine

and nanoagriculture

Medicine

Disease biology and detection, diagnostics, sensors, implants and prosthetics,

biomarkers; nanomaterials and devices for therapeutics, drug delivery, tissue

repair and regeneration; tissue engineering, medical devices, gene delivery,

techniques for DNA sequencing.

Development of techniques to characterize properties of nanostructured

assemblies and materials for advancing biomedical technologies.

Agriculture

Sensor applications for water, fertilisers and pesticide use; nanopesticides;

nanomaterials for introducing DNA and chemicals to cells; nanomaterials to

increase production, shelf-life and nutritional value of food; nanotechnology

applications for animal breeding, disease treatment, drug delivery and

pathogen detection.

Source: Compiled from various sources

Department of Information Technology (DIT)

The Department of Information Technology, under the Ministry of

Communication and Information Technology, was set up with the

agenda of making India a front-runner in the age of information

revolution. Realising the potential of nanotechnology in

information and communication technology, the DIT launched a

Nanotechnology Development Program in 2004 and had made an

investment of 126 crore and sanctioned 18 projects by 2007.

(Annexure IV). Beside the capacity building programmes under

taken by the department, there has been some significant support

to research projects as well. These have been in the area of

development of nanometrology (NPL New Delhi), synthesis and

characteristics of various nanomaterials (IIT Delhi and C-MET

Pune), nanomaterials for electronic applications like packaging

and opteoelectronics (C-MET, Pune; IIT Roorkee), nanoelectronic

devices (CEERI Pilani), optical and energy applications (C-MET



Pune), spintronics (IIT Kanpur). Other projects in the area of

sensors like the synthesis of specific nanomaterials for sensor for

vacuum and low pressure applications (Jadavpur University) as

well as gas sensing applications (IIT, Kharagpur) also have been

aided by the DIT. Investigations of nanomaterial to sense chemical

and biological species (Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi),

characterisation of nanodevices (VNIT, Nagpur), alignment and

characterisation of carbon nanotubes for targeted drug delivery are

other significant research projects being carried out under the

aegis of DIT. Three patent applications have also resulted out of

the DIT sponsored R&D.1

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

Under the DSIR, CSIR (Council for Scientific and Industrial

Research) was set up as an autonomous body in 1942 to provide

scientific, industrial R&D that maximises the economic,

environmental and societal benefits for India. A premier body

for supporting research, CSIR does not have a specific

programme on annotechnology but been supporting projects in

the broad area of nanoscience and technology. In general

several projects supported by CSIR pertain to the development

or synthesis of a variety of nanomaterials, their

characterisation, study of their properties and investigations for

their use in industrial applications. In between 2003-2007 the

main domains under which this research was sustained include

chemical science and technology and material sciences (Table

3.4). In the materials domain major accomplishments by

various labs under the knowledge based products/technology

development category include lipid nanoparticle

immobilisation, carbon nanotubes using the dc arc discharge

technique, nanocrystalline polymers with a variety of dopings

for fabrication of fast response polymer based solid states and

sensing devices. Technologies developed for commercialisation

include interventions such as nanocrystalline ferromagnetic

alloys, nano sized hydrographite powder for bone grafting.

Technologies under development include nanocrystalline ferro

magnetic alloys, biomimetic synthesis of nano sized

hydrographite powder for bone grafting etc.2

In addition, some research has been funded in the spheres of

energy and ecology and environment. R&D in the former area

consists of the development of nanomaterials for

desulfurization of coal and for carbon-di-oxide sequestration. In

the sphere of environment focus areas include development of

nanomaterials and nanosensors for detecting various gases,

acids as well as gas moisture in minute amounts. CSIR has in

the past undertaken tremendous work in the health domain and

1 DIT http://www.mit.gov.in/default.aspx?id=691 2 CSIR http://www.csir.res.in/



has been instrumental in the development of drugs and

pharmaceuticals. This has led to its interest in nanotechnology

R&D in medicine and health. Recently under the 11th five year

plan, a network project on nanomaterials and nanodevices in

health and disease with CCMB as the nodal lab has been

initiated. Rs 40 crore has been budgeted for this.1 CSIO, one of

the constituent CSIR laboratories has in fact developed an

inexpensive, easy to use, portable tuberculosis diagnostic kit

based on nanotechnology which was undergoing clinical trials2,

3.

Altogether CSIR labs have claimed proficiency in developing a

variety of nanomaterials such nanocrystalline materials,

polymeric nanoparticles, nanoparticle technology under the

domains of biology and biotechnology, wear resistant

nanocomposite coatings, nanocomposite films, nano ceramic

powders and nano catalysts. Other potential areas for interest

include environmental nanotechnology, nanomembranes for

water treatment and nano-electronics.4

Aside the projects undertaken within its constituent

laboratories, a few projects related to nanotechnology have also

been facilitated under the NMITLI scheme. This scheme seeks

to develop efficient public-private ventures for developing large

scale projects of national importance or industrial significance.

The nanotechnology based projects include:

� Stimuli sensitive polymeric nano-particle based advanced

drug delivery systems for cancer, diabetes and anti-

bacterials; However it appears that this project has since

then been closed.

� Nano-material catalysts and associated process technology

for alkylation/ acylation/nitration of well identified

industrial chemicals, pre-reforming of hydro-carbons and

sulphur removal (<50 ppm) from petroleum fuels;

� Nano-material coatings and advanced composites for

tribological applications in automotive industry;5

Therefore nanotechnology research undertaken in these

projects has a very high scope of being developed into

industrially relevant technologies due to industry participation

in the R&D process. Even aside from the NMITLI venture,

collaborations between CSIR labs and industry appear to have

1 Annual reports CSIR, 2006-07 2 ThePress Trust of India, 2003, "In The News - TB News". http://www.stoptb.org/material/news/press/pti_030416.htm. 3 TheTimes of India, 2004, "CSIO Develops Nanotechnology for TB DiagnosticKit". http://www1.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/401636.cms. 4 CSIR, http://www.csir.res.in/ 5 http://www.csir.res.in/external/heads/collaborations/NM.pdf



been undertaken. RRL Bhopal has tied up with HEG ltd,

Madhya Pradesh to work on new materials including

conducting basic research on nanomaterials.

CSIR holds several prominent publications and patents in the

area of nanoscience and technology. In the Indian context

appears to hold the highest number of international patents in

S&T as well as in the sphere of nanotechnology. For example

five US patents mainly in the area of the synthesis of

nanoparticles and nanomaterials were granted to CSIR labs like

CLRI, IICT, NCL, NML, and NEIST.1

Table 3.4 Nanoscience and Nanotechnology related work under CSIR

Year Chemical sciences Material sciences

2003-2004 Synthesis of nanotubes, materials to enhance

efficiency of supercapacitors, nanomaterials for

catalysis

Synthesis inorganic nanoparticles,

2004-2005 Synthesis and characterisation of a variety of

nanomaterials, nanomaterials for catalysis and

novel polymeric materials and in developing

green processes in the for organics; synthesis of

nanomaterials from biological sources

Synthesis of nanomaterials like gold films and nano-

alumina powder, ZnS:Mn nanoparticles

NMITLI projects- development of nanomaterials,

nanocatalysts, nanocomposites

2005-2006 nanomaterials for catalysis and novel polymeric

materials, wear resistant nanofiltration

membranes

Development and characterisation of a variety of

nanomaterials, methods to produce nanomaterials in

commercial scales at NPL (esp since applications are

seeing a tremendous increase)

2006-2007 Compute shapes of nanocrystals using X-ray

diffusion, synthesis and study of the properties of

barium titanate nanoparticles,, synthesis of

nanocrystal silica from rice husk and its use in

biomedical applications like tumor detection;

nanomaterials for catalysis and novel polymeric

materials and in developing green processes in

the for organics

Nanomaterial containing thin films for smart windows,

gold nanopartic;les for increasing enzyme activity for

biosensor applications, methods for synthesising

nanowires, nanoparticles and nanoclusters.

Source: Annual reports, CSIR

Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) The vision of DAE with respect to nanoscience and technology is

to understand the behaviour of nanomaterials and cultivate

methods for their fabrication and characterisation and then use

this knowledge to create devices. Given the mandate of DAE,

applications in its area of interest span lasers, radiation detectors,

nanoscale motors and drug delivery systems. DAE supported

basic research in chemical sciences and engineering sciences,

including materials and surface engineering are listed in Table

3.5. Special mention has been made on the need to conduct

coordinated research in the areas of semiconductor and metal

quantum dots, magnetic quantum structures, interface and

1 CSIR, http://www.csir.res.in/



surface physics and chemistry. The need to facilitate links

between basic and applied research and engineering sciences to

address some challenging areas like nano-composites, sensor

development has also been emphasised. DAE has planned an

advance technology development program that it claims will form

the backbone of product development in technologies like MEMS

and nanotechnology. The technologies that will be developed

include ultra precision machining techniques and finishing

techniques. The department is also interested in sensor

development for the variety of programs under its domain and

one of the focus areas is development of sensors based on nano-

crystalline, nanowire and micro-cantilevers.1

Table 3.5 List of projects by Department of Atomic Energy

Chemical Science Engineering Sciences including Material Science and

Surface Engineering

Synthesis of nano-ceramics, nano-ionics, molecular

engineering of materials or control of structure at

molecular level, self-assembly of amphiphilic molecules

that offers scope for producing, biocompatible materials,

super-lattice of nano-materials and drug delivery

systems.

hydrogen storage materials (carbon nano-tubes, metal

hydrides etc.);

New characterization tools for nanomaterials and

nanodevices. Development of an intense slow positron

pulsed beam using an electron linac to facilitate study of

unexplored areas in positron chemistry.

nano-structuring, laser technology for developing

advanced materials.

Synthesis of oxides, bi-metallics, nano-structured

catalysts in micro and meso-porous hosts.

Understanding the processes at atomic and molecular

level to help design better catalysts.

Nanocomposites for coatings, nanomaterial coatings to

prevent corrosion to increase efficiency of reactors

Imprinted inorganic ion exchangers or filters in the form

of nano-particles with improved efficiencies for

application in radioactive waste reprocessing

Source: http://www.dae.gov.in/

Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO)

The mission of DRDO is to establish world-class science and

technology base to equip the country’s defence services with

internationally competitive systems and solutions. To this

effect, DRDO has supported and also engaged with research

itself in the areas of nanomaterials2, nanotubes and device

development. Defence Materials and Stores Research and

Development Establishment (DMSRDE), Kanpur under the

DRDO has set up a nano material development/ carbon

nanotube manufacturing facility3,1 DRDE. One of the labs under

1 http://www.dae.gov.in/ 2 http://tiet.ac.in/home.php?main=research_ongoing_project 3 http://www.hinduonnet.com/fline/fl2415/stories/20070810512012000.htm; http://www.newspostindia.com/report-44019



DRDO has, based on a nanosensor developed at IISC Bangalore,

developed a typhoid diagnostic kit that is 30 times more

sensitive than earlier prototypes. Future plans of DRDO with

national and international collaborations include establishing a

laboratory focused on nanomaterial based medical devices2 and

nanomaterial use in battery and defence applications.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

ICMR an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and

Family Welfare is engaged in R&D that seeks to address health

needs of the nation. Projects primarily dealing with research on

nanomaterial use for drug delivery in areas of tuberculosis

(AIIMS)3, retinoblastoma (Sankara Nethralaya and ILS,

Bhubaneshwar)4 and other ophthalmic uses19 have been

funded by the ICMR (Table 3.6). Studies are also being

conducted on the toxicological and chemotherapeutic aspects of

these nanoparticles5

Table 3.6 List of nanotechnology projects that have received financial aid from

ICMR

Project Institute / Location

Oral delivery of cyclosporin g, an immunosuppressive

peptide by entrapment as Liposomes and nanoparticles

Al-Ameen College of Pharmacy

Bangalore

2005-2008

Nano particle delivery of bioactive constituents and drug

by supercritical fluid system

Central Food Technological

Research Institute Mysore 2007-2010

Solid lipid nanoparticles as surrogate carrier for bioactive

agents

Jamia Hamdard University) New

Delhi 2005-2008

Nanoparticle mediated drug therapy to the brain for the

management of Alzheimers disease

J.S.S.College of Pharmacy

Ootacamund

2006-2009

Treatment of visceral leishmaniasis with engineered

nanoparticulate carrier containing amphotericin B

Dr.Hari Singh Gour

Vishwavidyalaya Sagar

2006-2009

Design development and evaluation of nanoparticulate

drug delivery system of antiviral drugs for improve- ment

of oral bioavailability

M.S.University of Baroda

Vadodara

2006-2007

Source: http://www.icmr.nic.in/projects/projectsanc2002-2007march.htm

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)

1 http://www.hinduonnet.com/fline/fl2415/stories/20070810512012000.htm; http://www.newspostindia.com/report-44019 2 http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/06/03/stories/2006060300040700.htm 3 http://www.sankaranethralaya.org/re_nano.htm 4 http://www.icmr.nic.in/projects/projectsanc2002-2007march.htm 5 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16784116?ordinalpos=1&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_DiscoveryPanel.Pubmed_Discovery_RA&linkpos=3&log$=relatedarticles&logdbfrom=pubmed



One of the major activitiesof MNRE under the 11th five year plan

is to support R&D that dwells on novel materials for solar cells

within which thin film modules incorporating nanomaterials

like carbon nanotubes and quantum dots will be aided. The goal

is to enable efficiencies of 5-10% at the laboratory level. A

project on developing nanocomposites copper oxide based thin

film solar cells has been supported at IIT Delhi while another on

nano thin film solar cells is ongoing at Jadavpur University. In

the area of hydrogen storage, emphasis has been laid on

developing materials like carbon nanotubes and nanofibres

focussing on graphitic nanofibres. A project that is centred on

nano and metastable magnesium based alloys for hydrogen

storage has been supported alongside research that aims to

develop semiconductor nanomaterials for use in hydrogen

generation. Research that focuses on theoretical investigations

on the likely favourable factors of carbon nanotubes for

application in hydrogen adsorption has also been aided. Other

areas such as fuel cells, development of nanomaterials like

metal nanostructures, biomass gasification are also being

encouraged by MNRE.1

Strengthening human resource and infrastructure

A skilled workforce and a robust state of art institutional

support are vital to a knowledge intensive field like nanoscience

and technology. Recognizing the direct correlation between

skilled personnel and the expansion in R&D and applications of

nanotechnology, policy makers have prioritised developing

qualified workforce and infrastructure development across the

country through various programmes and initatives.

Although support to research projects indirectly builds capacity

of researchers, there have been specific programmes directed

towards building human resource base for nanotechnology in

India. A large part of this initiative comes from the DST. It has

assumed primary responsibility to foster the development

human resource in nanoscience and technology through the

NSTI and NSTMAccording to DST secretary India would house

a large population of young scientific talent in the world by

2020. Thus the aim of the mission is, according to him, to

leverage our existing “sound education system” and find

approaches to “expand capacity to churn out human resources

required for development and growth of the nanosector on lines

of other sectors in the knowledge era”. Apart from leveraging

the potential of a large population and young workforce, it seeks

to harness the and low cost R&D advantage to entice global

1 http://mnes.nic.in/



firms and investment and make India the “global destination for

nano research1 ”

Human resource development is one of the main objectives of

the NSTM, towards which the mission seeks to provide

exposure to both students and researchers in the diverse fields

that partake in nanotechnology and prepare them to work

across disciplines, which is the hallmark of a technology like

nanotechnology.

Therefore DST has issued notices inviting universities and

research institutes to initiate postgraduate courses (M.Sc. or

M.Tech.) in nanoscience and technology. It proposed 5 year

financial assistance to institutions that possess adequate

infrastructure and can train students in multidisciplinary

disciplines that is necessitated for teaching in nanoscience and

technology. Since 2007 funds have been granted to several

academic institutions to undertake postgraduate courses and

provide education in the area of nanoscience and technology.

The aim is to build a pool of skilled personnel across the

spectrum of post graduates, doctoral students as well as

scientists that is essential to sustain the growth of

nanotechnology in India.

In the last 3 years these courses have been proliferating at

various institutes across different regions of India. A look at the

postgraduate courses facilitated by DST (table 3.7)2 reveals that

there is greater interest in M.tech. courses in comparison to

M.Sc. courses. In general MSc courses train students for

undertaking research as a profession in either basic or applied

disciplines. M.tech. courses on the other hand courses that are

configured towards engineering disciplines and help develop a

workforce empowered to take on and technology development

in the chosen field. The predominance of M.tech. courses over

M.Sc. courses suggests that policy makers might be trying to

orient human resources development in the nano sphere

predominantly towards engineering and application

development avenues. This might enable development of a

workforce ripe for engaging with nanotechnology in the

industry domain. At present industry participation in this field

is in its infancy in India. Moreover start-ups and SMEs are in a

severe minority amongst those industrial organisations

engaging with nanotechnology in India. Therefore the evolution

of M.tech courses might help fill this gap and instigate

development of products and devices, an area that NSTM has

emphasized, at a more rapid pace than previously.

1 National mission to make India global nano hub, 11th May 2007, accessed 24th May 2008 http://www.indiaprwire.com/businessnews/20071105/25368.htm 2 http://nanomission.gov.in/, List of projects sanctioned



In other spheres, training programs including those at set ups

like the INUP have built capacity of researchers in the

nanotechnology domain. In fact some of DSTs general training

schemes for scientists such as ‘The Foundation Training

Program’ as well as the ‘Advanced Techno- Management

Program for Scientists and Technologists (Middle Level)’also

cover nanotechnology.

Table 3.7 List of post-graduates course in nanoscience and technology facilitated

by DST

Year PG Teaching Programmes - Nano Science

and Technology M.Sc./ M.Tech University and location

2007-

2008 (3)

� 2 Year M.Tech. course



� Anna University, Chennai - Annual Intake of 15

Students

� Indraprastha University, New Delhi - Annual Intake of

15 Students

� Jadavpur University, Kolkata - Annual Intake of 18

Students

2008-

2009 (9)

� 2 Year M.Sc. course



� 3 Year Integrated M.Tech. course

� 3 Year Integrated M.Tech. course

� M.Tech. course

� Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar - Annual intake

of 15 students

� SASTRA University, Thanjavur - Annual intake of 20

students

� Guru Jambheshwar University of Science &

Technology, Hisar - Annual intake of 20 students

� University of Delhi

� Vellor Institute of Technology University, Vellore

� Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh

� 2 Year M.Sc. course on Nano Physics

� M.Tech. course on Nano Medical

Science

� Osmania University, Hyderabad

� Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi


Several other initiatives undertaken within the NSTI are listed

in table 3.8.1

Other departments like DBT and CSIR have also extended

support for developing human resources in their niche areas,for

example DBT has awarded overseas fellowships to scientists for

training in nanoscience and technology2,3; conferences and

workshops on nanoscience and technology through ICMR4 and

CSIR support; ICMR Fellowship has been awarded for training

in nanotechnology and drug delivery.5. MNRE is planning to

establish research centres that might focus on key

nanotechnology and its application in energy sector.

1 ibid 2 http://www.sankaranethralaya.org/pdf/Pathology%20website.pdf 3 http://dbtindia.nic.in/research/overseas2007-08.pdf 4 http://icmr.nic.in/annual/2005-06/hqds/seminar.pdf 5 Fellowship at at University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha www.sankaranethralaya.org/re_path.htm



Given that nanotechnology is an enabling technology and draws

from several disciplines, the research community is spread out

across areas of expertise, disciplines, institutes and centres.

Nano Mission is maintaining a database or directory that lists

the expertise in nanoscience and technology in India. This

would enhance information flows amongst the R&D community

and help build networks for cross-disciplinary collaborations.

Table 3.8 Initiatives undertaken for human resource development and promotion

under the Nanoscience and Technology Initiative (NSTI)

Initiative Intent Examples

Fellowships and

Awards

BOYSCAST fellowships granted to young nano-scientists

for a duration of 3-12 months

Two National Nano awards instituted to be given to

outstanding scientists in this field.

Ramanna Fellowship

Post-Doctoral

Fellowships

To encourage and provide

opportunities for scientists to work

on frontier technologies; train at

international institutes; intensify

research in their host institutes,

and create expertise at the

national S&T laboratories. Fellowships granted to nano scientists; anchored by

Jawaharlal Nehru Center for Advanced Scientific

Research, Bangalore.

Advanced

schools

to train researchers and

generating the opportunity for

them to develop hands on

experience on sophisticated

techniques, instruments and

methods.

Nanomaterials Preparation, Characterization and

Manipulation; IISc and JNCASR; Bangalore

Science of Size Reduction, different routes of preparation,

characterization of nano-materials and applications; S.N.

Bose National Center for Basic Sciences; Kolkata

Nanoscience and Nanobiology, Bangalore February 2007

Organising and

supporting

Conference,

workshops

Networking, information exchange

amongst national and

international scientists; to keep

abreast of latest developments in

the field identify mutual topics of

interest and develop collaborative

programs

Three international conferences on various aspects of

nanoscience and technology in 2003, 2006 and 2008.

2 National Review and Coordination meetings in 2005 and

2007 to take stock of the R&D in India and evolve future

directions

Post-Graduate

Teaching

Programs

(M.Sc./M.Tech.)

To develop skilled researchers

who can work in interdisciplinary

environments

Grant eligible to public institutions that possess the

necessary teaching and lab infrastructure.


NSTI and NSTM have identified the need to establish facilities

for characterisation of nanomaterials and serving other

analytical needs. To enable researchers access to sophisticated

equipment centres for sophisticated analytical instrument

facilities or SAIFs have been set up across India. These centres



are located at major research hubs and at institutions capable of

hosting such facilities, where researchers from all parts of India

can avail scientific equipment on a payment basis. In the

context of nanotechnology the establishment of a chain of such

facilities that house instruments like AFM, TEM, Scanning

tunnelling microscopy (STM) as well as Optical Tweezer, Nano

indentoretc and can be used on a shared basis has been

considered. It appears that all the CoEs also harbour the

equipment needed to engage with nano research (See chapter 1)

Specific institutes have been provided financial support to up

grade their analytical facilities and tailor them to the specific

needs of nanotechnology (Table 3.9).1 Apart from these, support

for facilities at established CoEs like IISc and JNCASR,

institutes like Bangalore University, University of Madras as

well as the Inter University Acceleator Center at New Delhi have

also been provided with grants for this purpose. Additionally

research on developing novel tools for construction of

nanomaterials has also been supported at IIT Mumbai.

The DIT has initiated development of joint nano-electronics

centres at IISc Bangalore and IIT Mumbai to combine strengths

of these two institutes. It was felt that this approach would drive

interdisciplinary research in the context of developing

nanomaterials for electronic applications as well as technology

development by the way of nanodevices etc. Another key step

taken by DIT towards strengthening research capacity is the

Indian Nanoelectronics User Program to enable researchers

outside these two premier institutes to avail the infrastructure

available for nanoelectronics R&D at these centres. The

programme aims at creatinga common platform for an

exchange of ideas and expertise for advances in this field.2

Table 3.9 List of initiatives taken during the NSTI and NSTM to upgrade

infrastructure facilitaties

Year Financial support for analytical facilities

2003-2004 � Design of New and Novel Nanoconstruction Tools – IIT, Mumbai, Maharashtra

� Construction of an optical tweezer for nanometer scale rhelogy – Bangalore University, Karnataka

� Up gradation of existing UHV chamber preparation and investigation of the properties of nanostructured

materials. - University of Madras, Tamilnadu

� Development of state-of-the-art analytical electron Microscopy facility capable of high-resolution imaging

and analysis in the nanoscale as an Institute facility - Indian Institute of Science, Karnataka

2007-2008 � Clean room infrastructure for National nanofabrication Centre- Indian Institute of Science, Karnataka

� National Facility on Ultra High resolution aberration-corrected transmission electron microscope -

International Centre for materials Research, JNCASR, Karnataka

2008-2009 � Augmentation of computing resources for simulation and data analysis - Inter University Accelerator

Centre, New Delhi


1 http://nanomission.gov.in/, List of projects sanctioned 2 http://www.inup-iitb.org/workshop.html


International collaborations

International collaboration is another objective of the Nano

Mission. Under the mission, it is envisaged in the form of

scientists’ visits, joint workshops, conferences, joint research

projects, access to research facilities abroad, joint centres of

excellence. The period under the NSTI witnessed several

initiatives under the sphere of international collaborations.

Several bilateral collaborations emerged in nanoscience and

technology, as it was a part of nearly all the S&T agreements

between India and other countries. Initiatives for joint R&D

have figured prominently with Indian institutes engaging in

projects of similar kind in the US, EU, Japan, Taiwan and

Russia. These have largely focused on carbon nanotubes,

functional nanocomposites etc. Several joint meetings and

workshops/conferences have also been held. Other initiatives

include Science and Technology Initiatives with Indian

diaspora-Scientists and Technologists of Indian Origin Abroad

(STIOs) for encouraging networking between Indian scientists

and scientists and technologists of Indian origin that are based

abroad1. Under the NSTM, developing joint R&D, projects,

scientific visits and conferences are being planned. Mechanisms

for accessing sophisticated research facilities and forging

academia-industry partnerships’ at an international level are

also are being developed.

The Euro-India Net is a forum set up under the FP6 between EU

and India to encourage collaborations between scientists from

the two regions in the area of nanotechnology. The forum seeks

to examine and understand the policies and mechanisms

through which innovation and R&D is being developed in

nanotechnology in India and the EU. Insights drawn will be

used to strengthen ties between the two regions in nanosciences

and nanotechnology within the domains of research, industry

and governments.2

The science and technology departments of Brazil, South Africa

and India have embarked on a tri-lateral initiative to developed

collaborative programs in several common area of interest

nanotechnology being one of them. Focus areas are sensors and

nanodevices, nanostructured organic and inorganic hybrid solar

cells and nanotechnology based drug delivery systems as well as

1 Nanoelectronics & nanodevices theme recognized at Session on “Creating Technology Corridors with STIOs” at 2nd Pravasi Bhartiya Divas (PBD) held in New Delhi during January 2003. 2 http://nanomission.gov.in/



mechanisms to strengthen human resource development in the

nano-domain.1

The international science and technology directorate (ISAD) of

the CSIR that aims to strengthen cooperation between CSIR and

international institutions has facilitated workshops and

collaborative projects with international partners like South

Africa, France, South Korea, China, Japan in the area of

nanoscience and technology.2 A joint Indo France Symposium

on Nanotechnology held in 2006 enabled discussions on basic

nanoscience research such as synthesis, characterization etc as

well as applications of nanotechnology in areas like medicine,

agriculture, environment, textiles and other industry

applications.

Other international collaborations for nanotechnology where

the government has played an active role include, Indo-US S&T

Forum, Indo-US High Technology Cooperation Group (HTCG),

Indo-German Committee on Science & Technology, Program of

Cooperation in Science and Technology; Indo-French

Laboratory for Solid State Chemistry (IFLaSC). A memorandum

of understanding also has been signed between India and

UNESCO to establish a Regional Centre for Education and

Training in Biotechnology, where one of the focus areas is on

nano-biotechnology.3,4

Initiatives and role of State Governments

Beside the central departments under various ministries of the

government of India, state governments such as those in

Karnataka, Tamilnadu and Andhra Pradesh have taken a keen

interest in nurturing nanoscience and technology in their states.

Karnataka Karnataka is leveraging its existing reputation as a biotech hub,

it’s S&T resources , e.g. nationally recognized research institutes

IISC and JNCASR, advanced scientific infrastructure as well as

human resource to become the national nanotechnology hub.5

Karnantaka government has been very active in this regard and

setting up a favourable environment for advancing nanotech

research. Recently, Veeco Instruments an international supplier

1 http://www.nano-ibsa.com/ 2 http://www.csir.res.in/ 3 http://www.dst.gov.in/about_us/ar07-08/int-st-cop.htm 4 http://nanomission.gov.in/ 5 Bangalore now to emerge as India's nano-technology hub, Accessed on 24th May 2008 http://indiaedunews.net/Karnataka/Bangalore_now_to_emerge_as_India's_nano-technology_hub_2777/



of instruments has ventured into Bangalore and partnering with

JNCASR in its endeavour1.

The thrust for nanotechnology in karnataka can be attributed to

the fact that Dr CNR Rao, chairman of science advisory council

to the prime minister and the president of JNCASR pursued his

scientific endeavor at Bangalore . His role as the chairperson of

Nano Mission Council and support to this technology has

inspired the home state to grant budgetary support to “explore

priority areas of nano-scientific research and technology”. A

vision group on nanotechnology under Dr Rao has been created

in Karnataka. The state has been aggressively promoting itself

as India’s destination for nanotechnology R&D as well as

industry base with M.N. Vidyashankar, Secretary, Department

of IT, Biotechnology and Science and Technology, Karnataka

stating at Bangalore Nano 2007 conference that Bangalore,

“which accounts for a significant proportion of research in

nanotechnology in the country, is poised to become “Nano city,”

He further acknowledged the Rs. 100 crore support to be

provided by the central government for establishing the

aforementioned nanotechnology related institute in Bangalore

for which considerable amount of land has been allocated under

Dr Rao’s guidance.2

Bangalore Nano an international conference organized by the

state government along with DST was mooted as the “ideal

forum for researchers and industrialists to interact and explore

possibilities of applications of nano-technology in electronics,

bio-pharmaceuticals and engineering.” It saw the participation

of 500 delegates and expected participation from countries like

Japan, Australia and Germany. In fact the EU that partnered

the event is interested in joining hands with India on nano R&D

projects and has even been known to set aside US $15 million

for this purpose. To attract investments that can spearhead

translation of innovative R&D into commercial or industrial

prospects, the conference organized a “Research-Industry

Collaboration Hub” (RICH) that sought to act as a platform for

collaborations between scientists and industry as well as

investors and venture capitalists.3

Tamilnadu Tamilnadu state government had set up a task force on

nanotechnology in 2002 itself to investigate the potential of this

technology and evaluate approaches to “reap its benefits”4. Few

1 Veeco-India Nanotechnology Laboratory http://www.jncasr.ac.in/veeco/ 2 The Hindu, 2007, Bangalore poised to become ‘nano city’, http://www.hindu.com/2007/11/04/stories/2007110454890500.htm 3 http://www.bangalorenano.in/ 4 Govt sets up nanotechnology task force, Sept 2002, accessed 26 May 2008 http://www.tn.gov.in/pressclippings/archives/pc2002/hindu20092002/hindu20092002.htm



institutes such as IIT Anna University and “Centre of Life

sciences” at Bharathiar University have been provided with

seed money to facilitate nanotechnology R&D1 while others like

IIT Chennai are already engaging in nano research. In an effort

to promote Tamilnadu as a hub for research in health related

nanotechnologies, state officials in 2007 were reviewing options

for a nanotechnology policy2. Further the government is

developing a Rs 100 crore scheme involving technical transfer

from the University of Arkansas3. In order to set up

nanotechnology parks in TN, the government has roped in

Taiwan’s Hsinchu Science Park officials for proposal

development and plans to attract public private investment

towards it. IIT Chennai and Anna University have been

approached to help develop the “park’s ecosystem” that will

house R&D, engineering and management institutes as well as

companies, product manufacturers, investor, legal and

administrative infrastructure4. The Tamilnadu Technology

Development and Promotional Centre had sponsored a CII

organized nanotechnology conclave in March 2008 aimed at

showcasing the country’s strengths in nanotechnology to

international nanotech players5.

Haryana

In 2005-2006 the Haryana state government’s initiatives had

led Sabir Bhatiya (of the hotmail fame) to shortlist Haryana as

one of the venues for launching his project of developing a

Nanocity that seeks to serve as a innovation hub housing R&D

set-ups, companies and institutes and universities. The aim is

to, in Mr Bhatiya’s words, is to recreate the Sillicon Valley in

Haryana so that the country can take advantage of the

opportunities the knowledge economy (that emerging

technologies including nanotechnology) is facilitating. The

project is planned to have public-private partnerships and set to

attract an initial investment of US$ 2 billion. Partnering with

the country’s premier institutes, the vision is to develop cutting

edge R&D in the areas of nanotechnology, biosciences, software

products and materials6.

Like the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Haryana

government has announced the creation of a nanotechnology

1 Nanotechnology centre for Anna Varsity http://www.thehindu.com/2005/04/12/stories/2005041213100600.htm 2 Tamilnadu prepares to be Indian nanotechnology hub http://www.thestatesman.net/page.arcview.php?clid=2&id=186580&usrsess=1 3 Tamilnadu prepares to be Indian nanotechnology hub http://www.thestatesman.net/page.arcview.php?clid=2&id=186580&usrsess=1 4 Tamilnadu plans nanotech park http://www.rediff.com/money/2007/nov/07tn.htm 5 http://www.tntdpc.com/nanotechnology/conclave.php 6 Mr Hotmail plans $2 bn Nano City in Haryana;Komal Amit Gera / Chandigarh April 5, 2006 http://www.techbizindia.com/newsletters/100406/nanotechnology.htm



park in its state. Another state of southern India, Andhra

Pradesh has also proposed a nanotechnology park facility with a

government investment of Rs. 35 crore1.

Key features of policy support

Since building capacity within the R&D domain is instrumental

for building a firm base in emerging technologies, the S&T

policy making institutions of the nation have been at the centre

of shaping the trajectory of nanoscience and technology in

India. The role of government in promoting nanotechnology

R&D has been spearheaded by DST, through its NSTI and Nano

mission. Over the last few years, other departments and

agencies of government such as DBT, DIT, CSIR, ICMR, DRDO

and DAE, have been proactive in developing nanotechnology

capacity in their respective areas. Even at sub-national level,

there is a growing interest in directing government investments

and actions towards promoting nanotechnology. The policy

scenario for nanotechnology R&D is characterised by certain

key features discussed hereunder.

Fundamental research Research in the fundamental aspects of nanoscience is emerging

as one of India’s strengths in the nanoscience and technology

domain. A strong foundation for basic research that was

developed under the NSTI is being expanded in the NSTM.

Routes for the synthesis of various nanomaterials, their

characterisation as well as investigations into the properties

have been a major focus probably due to India’s strength in the

chemical and material sciences. Another reason for this focus

on fundamental research is that Nanotechnology necessitates

the understanding of the novel principles, structure and

properties of nanoscale materials, systems, processes that are

only beginning to be discovered. A wide breadth of materials

has been covered making the magnitude of basic research been

undertaken in this sphere large.

At the moment basic research on the global arena is flourishing

and new dimensions are being added on a daily basis to this

rapidly expanding field. For this reason and since a grounded

understanding on the fundamentals is considered vital to

successfully manipulate nanoscale systems and develop

applications and products, India needs to engage with basic

research in nanoscience. On the other hand cutting edge

fundamental research also begets the opportunity to pioneer

new and exciting discoveries that provide the advantage of

1 http://www.financialexpress.com/news/Andhra-to-bear-subsidy-on-Nanotech-Park/121767/



possessing information and methodology that leads to unique

innovations that break new ground in the field. Further risk

related research on toxicity and behavior of nanomaterials

could evolve only from a sound understanding of the

fundamental nature of these materials. However, as of now,

very little research on risk related aspects of nano science and

technology are being delved into.

Restrictions on technology transfer from developed countries in

the past has created a tradition of self reliance and bottom up

approach to technology development in which fundamental

research has played an extremely important part. Fundamental

research has been the stronghold of Indian S&T. It is widely

believed that India could use its strength in fundamental

research to catch up with S&T in other countries. In the context

of nanotechnology India’s developing competence in

nanoscience research has provided it with a springboard to

leapfrog its way in the global arena in terms of scientific

development. Support to basic research.

Support for development of applications In a stakeholder dialogue organised by TERI to discuss the

developments of nanotechnology in India, Dr P. Asthana, a high

ranking policy maker with the NSTI and now NSTM revealed

that the research being conducted in India at that time was

largely basic research in nanoscience rather than

nanotechnology. Indeed during the NSTI the predominant

emphasis was on developing basic research. However In 2007

the formulation of the NSTM witnessed the inclusion of

application and technology development as an important

objective in its mandate. This it appears was based on the

desire to develop technological innovations and processes for

industry that would strengthen India’s economy as well as

create applications and products for driving development in

sectors like health, energy, water, environment etc. This

dimension of scocio-economic growth through S&T has been

forcefully emphasized in the recent years in the Indian scenario.

This has lead most of the agencies like DST and DBT to stress

on product or process development through R&D funding, aside

of also aiding research in fundamental science. While this might

have had a spill over effect in the nanoscience and technology

arena, pressures from the advancement in the application

development in the international arena might have also forced

policy makers to highlight technology development in this

emerging technology. It may have also been felt that a critical

mass of basic research and infrastructure had been put in place

to launch the development of nano-based products. Aside this

engagement of industry with nanotechnology in the early years

was quite negligible and is still emerging. Venture capital



mechanisms are nearly non existent. This made taking research

forward to technology development in this arena sluggish. In

fact for example Dr Ajay Sood’s importantresearch that had

implications for sensor development was taken up by an

international company rather than an Indian one.1,2

Nevertheless a handful of public private partnerships were

initiated and Centres for Nanotechnology have been established

during this period. The areas of interest in the latter are

nanoproducts, nanoelectronics, sensors and biosensors and

photovoltaics.

However in the present NSTM aside from emphasis on

application oriented projects and PPPs several other initiatives

like the creation of NATAG that advices technology

development related projects, establishment of technology

development centres and business incubators etc have been

defined. Therefore one hopes that application development in

the nano-domain might be looked at holistically. Moreover the

CSIR’s flagship program NMITLI, India’s largest public-private

partnership scheme also has a few nanoprojects under its

umbrella and is an initiative by the government to get industry

on board with public funded R&D. R&D for developing

technological innovations also appears to be catching on

amongst individual scientists who although on a smaller basis

are interested in undertaking application oriented R&D and are

approaching agencies for the same. On the ground as well

Indian conferences (Bangalore Nano, ICON SAT) that were

either tailored to laboratory related research now routinely

feature industry participation, space for entrepreneurs and

sessions on the potential for commercialisation of research.

The situation also appears to be changing on the industry front

with greater industry participation in this arena. Some

multinationals like like Tata Chemicals, Mahindra and

Mahindra engaging with nanotechnology. Others like Darbur

and Biocon have developed nano technology based drug

delivery products. In fact due to the country’s traditional

strength in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, nanotechnology

research in the health and lifesciences domain appears to be of

most interest to both researchers and industry. Out of the six

PPPs developed in the NSTI (Table 3.1) are health related.

Other research developed or being developed at public funded

institutes and aided by DST, DBT, CSIR and ICMR includes

drug delivery systems, development of diagnostic kits for

tuberculosis and typhoid, bandages for healing burns etc. These

1 R Ramchandran, 2003, A surprise from Banglore, Frontline, Volume 20 - Issue 03, http://www.physics.iisc.ernet.in/~asood/A%20surprise%20from%20Bangalore.htm 2 Discussion at Bangalore Nano 2008



reasons might permit the spheres of nanobiotechnology and

nanomedicine to develop into key areas for application

development. Additional R&D that might interest industry and

is being taken up at public funded institutes includes those

related to chemical or manufacturing industry as well as other

areas like water filtration, development of photovoltaics,

electronics, sensors and even textiles which might be aided by

DST, MNRE, DIT etc. Institutes like the IITs and CSIR

laboratories that are known to be storehouses for technology

development have also undertaken nanotechnology projects.

NMITLI’s projects concern development of nanocatalysts for

industry as well as nanocoatings for the automotive industry. In

fact in some case it does appear that researchers and industry

might be coming together to undertake technology development

on their own rather than through the intervention of policy-

making agencies. The list of nano technologies developed in the

public domain and transferred to industry was prepared by

National Foundation of Indian Engineers in a study on the R&D

undertaken by Indian academia and R&D laboratories1 (Table

3.10). Though its is unclear as to which institutes have hosted

this R&D and how they have been funded it gives a picture of

the nature of nanotechnologies being pursued by public funded

institutes that might be of interest to the industry. The study

also highlighted the fact that 67 patents have been granted to

the academic and R&D institutes in India and abroad.

Table 3.10 List of 21 technologies that have been transferred to Industry in India

by Academic institutes / R&D Labs

S. No. Name of the Technology

1. Multilayered coating for cuttings tools

2. Sensor technology

3. Hydro gels

4. Nano silver loading on ceramic water filter candles

5. Textile treatment

6. Application of Nano-fluid & Nano-ceramics

7. Production of Nano-sized stabilized ZrO2 & nano-sized white pigments

8. Magnetic particle for bio-separation

9. Classified X-ray diffraction spectro equipment, Electro analytical

equipment, Electrochemical Sensors and Ion

10. Selective electrodes

11. Nanofibers and plasma assisted nanofinishing

12. Biosynthesis of gold nanotriangles

13. Pesticide removal from drinking water using metal nanovarification

14. Synthesis of nanosized hydroxyapatite powder

15. Pt/CNT electro catalysts

16. Polyurethane clay nanocomposites band coated textiles

17. Synthesis of photoactive titania composition

1 study on Status of nanotechnology in Indian Industry & Academia /R&D Labs, 2008, National Foundation of Indian Engineers, supported by DST



18. Ultra and nano filtration ceramic membranes for safe drinking water

19. Nano Rare Earth Phosphates for strategic applications

20. Anti-scratch coatings on plastic ophthalmic lenses

21. Nano structured materials/coatings

Source: study on Status of nanotechnology in Indian Industry & Academia

/R&D Labs, 2008, National Foundation of Indian Engineers, supported by

DST

Generally, in either basic or applied research or even technology

development in the nanodomain it appears that several diverse

areas of R&D are being supported even though certain specific

interest areas have emerged. This approach might have

probably been undertaken so as to not close the door on any

particular research avenue since this technology has emerged in

full force relatively recently. In fact building R&D capacity is

being done in many areas or rather in nanoscience and

technology as a whole rather than in certain strategic areas

(Rachel Parker, 2008)1. Some experts have noted that a critical

mass of R&D must be developed first and that if strategic areas

of R&D support were prematurely defined it would exclude

several research areas and groups (Sastry 2008 in Rachel

Parker, 2008)2. It would also exclude several significant areas of

R&D that might seem insignificant at present but might reap

rich dividens in the future especially as R&D in nanoscience and

technology is constantly evolving.

Multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research Research at the union of disciplines like life sciences, medicine,

physics, chemistry, material sciences and engineering sciences

are the cornerstone of nanoscience and technology.

Development of products, devices and applications would

necessitate research across a variety of disciplines that are

linked together for the common goal of technology

development. Several areas like water purification technology,

nutrition and health care technologies, energy, textiles,

electronics, advanced manufacturing and advanced materials

would necessitate cross disciplinary research in the context of

S&T.

Nanomission, under its objective of basic research promotion,

has specifically emphasised on support for multidisciplinary

research as well as for groups of researchers that would like to

undertake interdisciplinary research. DBT has also underscored

the need for proposals to be interdisciplinary in nature and a

1 Rachel Parker, 2008, Leapfrogging Development through Nanotechnology Investment:Chinese and Indian Science and Technology Policy Strategies, China-India-US Workshop on Science, Technology and Innovation Policy University of California, Santa Barbara 2 Ibid



look at the research supported by DST, DBT and DIT in the

nanotechnology domain in the last few years does suggest a

beginning of multidisciplinary research and interdisciplinary

research.1 For example the network project on nanomaterials

and nanodevices in health and disease headed by CCMB

involves 18 other CSIR laboratories that possess varying

competencies. 2

In specific cases it also appears that under the NSTM identical

projects have been supported in two distinct research

establishments under two different principal investigators.

The stress on interdisciplinary research has been seen in DBT

supported research as well. While research undertaken

simultaneously in different institutes might culminate in some

multi or interdisciplinary research, this area in S&T still

represents a challenge to the research and policy making

community in India since it has not been engaged with

traditionally.

Multiplicity and overlapping R&D focus A look at the focus areas of the various agencies as well as the

support provided by them to nanoscience and technology

projects reveals that often in the context of R&D they have

mutual or overlapping areas of interest. These instances include

research that dwells on the synthesis and characterisation of

nanomaterials, understanding their properties and behaviour as

well as R&D across several areas of application like health,

energy, development of sensors etc.

DST has funded research in the broad area of the development

of nanomaterials, including projects on semiconductor

nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes, nanomaterials for electronic,

magnetic and sensor applications, and bionanomaterials. Even

DAE has shown interest in semiconductor nanomaterials and

DRDO in the synthesis of carbon nanotubes. DIT supports R&D

on nanomaterials with electronic applications while

development of bionanomaterials is the key area for DBT. Thus

similar work is being focussed upon by different agencies. CSIR

through its basic research aimed at developing nanomaterials

for industrial application might also aid projects in related

1 http://nanomission.gov.in/, http://dbtindia.nic.in/uniquepage.asp?id_pk=68, http://www.mit.gov.in/default.aspx?id=691 2 It was proposed that a center for nanotechnology would be established at CCMB in association with BITS, Pilani and Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) to facilitate “the interaction of scientists of various disciplines of biology, physics and chemistry, from both the research institutions to work on the post human genome project and other challenging areas” . [CCMB To Invest Rs 28 Crore In Nanotech Centre, 2004, Financial express http://www.financialexpress.com/news/ccmb-to-invest-rs-28-crore-in-nanotech-centre/34602/]



areas. Also several projects sanctioned by DST in the area of

nanomaterial development have generic titles and there is a

great possibility that these may be similar or close to the work

being undertaken or promoted by other agencies.

Even in terms of application-oriented research, there is some

level of overlapping in the sectors identified by different

agencies. While DST appears to be involved in aiding R&D the

diverse spheres of health, agriculture, environment and toxicity,

these very areas are key to DBT’s R&D support). In fact the area

of health has attracted engagement of DST, DBT, ICMR as well

as CSIR and DRDO to a smaller extent. Support to research on

nanomaterial aided drug delivery, for example has been a prime

focus of the DST, DBT and ICMR while research on

nanomaterial related research on tissue engineering has been

aided by both DST and DBT. In addition to these agencies CSIR

has also sanctioned a project on nanomaterials and devices in

health across its laboratories.

In the sphere of energy MNRE is involved in and plans to

increase its support for nanoscience and technology based R&D

in areas like development of nanomaterials for photovoltaics,

hydrogen energy and fuel cells. These are areas quite similar to

DSTs research funding in energy. Both DST and DBT appear

interested in developing water filters by incorporating

nanomaterials. DBT’s research support on plant biotechnology

and animal biotechnology agriculture, biopesticides, genetics,

protein engineering, which coincide with some of DST’s focus

areas. Similarly, other applications like sensors interest DST as

well as DIT and DAE. The introduction of ICAR, that plays a

significant role in supporting R&D in the field of agriculture, as

a potential stakeholder in nanotechnology might exacerbate the

support to research interests similar to DBTs focus area of

agricultural science.

Table 3.11 Nanosciecne and nanotechnology within overall R&D frameworks

across departments/ agencies

Agency Areas of R&D interest and support Areas of R&D interest and support in nanoscience and

technology

DST/ SERC Organize, coordinate, promote ST

activities,

Synthesis of a variety of nanomaterials.

Development of nanomaterials for chemical and



Funds R&D in several areas- life

sciences including biotechnology,

environmental sciences, chemical and

material sciences, physical sciences,

engineering sciences

manufacturing industries

Basic, applied research and application development in

areas of health, agriculture, environment, energy

(photovoltaics and hrdogen fuel), electronics, textiles,

Toxicity studies of nanomaterials

DIT IT and various branches of electronics,

development of materials and

components, applications of electronics

in various sectors

Development of nanomaterials and nanodevices like

sensors for electronics

DBT Biotechnology related research in the

areas of agriculture, plant, animal and

marine sciences, biodiversity and

environment science, product and

process development, food and nutrition,

genetics, infectious disease biology,

medical sciences, immunology

diagnostics and vaccines as well as basic

research in modern biology

Application in biology, health, medicine, agriculture,

nutrition, environment.

Drug delivery, biochip, diagnostics, therapeutics, tissue

engineering, food packaging, sensors, food packaging

material

Toxicity studies of developed nanomaterial applications

CSIR Scientific, industrial R&D for socio-

economic and environmental benefits.”

Aerospace, construction, electronics,

chemical technology, biology, health,

energy, environment.

R&D in chemical and material sciences Synthesis of a

variety of nanomaterials, nanocatalysts etc for future

industrial applications

R&D in health related applications- nanomaterials,

devices, diagnostic kits

DRDO R&D for defense applications, material

science, electronics, life sciences-

agriculture, food processing and

diagnostics

Development of nanomaterials like CNTs, typhoid

diagnostic kit, sensors, nm based medical devices

ICMR Biomedical science- communicable and

non-communicable diseases, nutrition,

environmental and occupational health

Basic research in biochemistry and

genomics etc

R&D in health related applications mainly drug delivery-

tuberculosis, eye diseases, Studies on toxicological and

chemotherapeutic properties of nanomaterials

DAE R&D for nuclear and radiation

technology, including fields like water,

health, agriculture, industry.

R&D in chemical and material sciences as well as

engineering sciences.

Synthesis of specific nanomaterials like nanoceramics,

nanocomposites, nanocatalysts and coatings

MNRE R&D in the areas of solar, wind, biomass

energy, fuel cells, hydrogen fuel etc

Development of nanomaterials for solar photovoltaics,

hydrogen storage and chemical fuel cells.

Development of thin film solar cells using nanomaterials

Source: Compiled from various sources

Different agencies across Ministries have been known to

support research in similar areas due to coinciding interests and

lack of interaction. For example DST and SERC through their

projects in basic and engineering sciences have supported

research in a variety of life sciences including molecular biology,

genetics, biochemistry, protein research, environment and

biotechnology as well as in the fields of water, energy,

electronics etc. On its part DBT aside from areas like

Even in medical biotechnology, e.g., developing drug delivery

systems, vaccines, biotechnological approach for treating

communicable and non communicable diseases.

Whereas ICMR has a much larger mandate of enabling the

development of public health efforts in India some of these

areas under DBT’s medicine biotechnology domain might



coincide with ICMR’s mandate and areas of interest and R&D

funding efforts. In fact some of the technologies being

developed in ICMR institutes have incorporated dimensions

from biotechnology that is considered DBT’s domain.

Additionally CSIR has a stronghold in development of

pharmaceuticals and drugs. Even DRDO supports research in

life sciences to generate basic and applied knowledge in core

areas such as biological and biomedical sciences, physiology,

bioengineering, specialized high altitude agriculture, food

science & technology etc.

Therefore in general coinciding areas of interest amongst

diverse agencies like DAE, DRDO, DIT AND DBT has led to

duplicity of efforts to promote R&D in areas that are very

similar in the nanoscience and technology arena. However a

glimpse at the R&D mandates of the agencies funding R&D in

the nano-domain suggest that this overlap of areas of interest is

not peculiar to nanotechnology but is intrinsic to the overall

Indian S&T as seen in Table 3.11.1

1 http://nanomission.gov.in/, http://dbtindia.nic.in/uniquepage.asp?id_pk=68, http://www.mit.gov.in/default.aspx?id=691, http://dst.gov.in/, http://icmr.nic.in/, http://www.drdo.org/, http://www.csir.res.in/, http://mnes.nic.in/


CHAPTER 4 Challenges and opportunities for nanotechnology

development

To realize the actual application potential of nanotechnology would

depend on capability at the national level to engage successfully in the

emerging domains of science and technology. From Research

Deliverable 7 (Conceptual Framework to assess national capabilities

to respond to NT developments), we observed that developing

capabilities in emerging technologies would require: a) skills of both

scientific and non-scientific kind, b) a greater degree of linkages

between various actors from academia, industry, policy makers would

be necessary for successful market deployment of such technologies,

c) the interdisciplinary approaches in nanotechnology would demand

a different R&D strategy as well as reorientation of science and

technology activities in universities, research institutes, funding

agencies and industry with a conducive institutional setting

facilitating interactive learning would be essential to respond to and

develop nanotechnology, e) devising adaptive and responsive

governance structures that can suitably regulate applications of

nanotechnology in society, and e) a flexible, dynamic policy

environment that has the ability to create the conditions required for

both knowledge generation and its effective utilization would form an

important dimension guiding the process of development of

capabilities.

In the above context, nanotechnology offers certain challenges as well

as opportunities to developing countries like India to engage

successfully in nanotechnology research and harness its benefit

towards economic growth and development. In the following section,

we examine the various challenges and opportunities for

nanotechnology development in India

Expanding R&D infrastructure and access to scientific facilities

Though the theoretical basis for the existence of nanomaterials and

nanoscale systems had been explained and developed since the late

1950s, the practical understanding and manipulation of these tiny

particles was established only with the advent of superior instruments

and analytical capabilities. This paved the way for a better grasp of

nanomaterials and their properties as well as an understanding on the

ways in which these materials might be exploited for beneficial

applications. Therefore high-end instrumentation and related

infrastructure are pre-requisites for developing capacity in

nanoscience and technology. These tools are expensive, complex and

require additional facilities in terms of ultra temperature controlled

ultra-clean spaces that are once again difficult to develop or maintain.

However in the Indian scenario due to resource constraints it has not



been possible to provide sophisticated facilities to all institutes hosting

R&D in this area. It is quite common that smaller research set ups

though interested in nanoscience and technology might lack

equipment necessary for work in this domain. At times even larger

institutes that might possess adequate S&T infrastructure otherwise

might not possess extremely high end equipment like atomic force

microscopy and even advanced versions of transmission electron

microscopy might be housed only in a few locations in India.

Additionally since such equipment is usually not indigenously

manufactured in India and procuring, assembling and maintaining

them even at institutes that have the resources to procure them is time

consuming and difficult.

India in general has been found wanting in area of access to

sophisticated scientific equipment and infrastructure. Except for

selected research institutions, others have lacked the presence of full

fledged cutting edge laboratories due to cost issues. On their part

policy makers are definitely enabling mechanisms to facilitate

establishment of sophisticated and central R&D facilities for

nanotechnology research where access to facilities is accompanied by

depositing a fee. Some institutes have also been provided with support

to enhance their laboratory facilities for this purpose. The INUP

facility at Bangalore that allows scientists from all over India to access

facilities is a significant initiative.

Yet some issues remain in the context of the present reach of these

facilities. Most of the CoEs that harbour equipment needed for

nanotechnology research are established at metros and in a few cases

in the larger cities. Therefore several time researchers from institutes

in smaller cities have voiced their problem of having to travel long

distances to access SAIF like facilities or use equipment available at

bigger institutes. Also since these facilities are few in number long

delays in processing coupled with bureaucratic problems lead to

overall delays in research undertaken in this area even amongst those

institutes that do not themselves possess these facilities but are within

the area of these common facilities. Since these equipments are

usually procured from international locations and are extremely

complex maintenance problems have been observed including some of

the equipment lying unused. These issues would need to be addressed

for the progress of nanoscience and technology in the country and

more importantly for quality research to be undertaken. In the race to

publish and patent nanotechnology R&D and innovations as well as

secure a standing in the global nanotechnology community lack access

to sophisticated infrastructure assumes a significant bottleneck that

must be addresses.In this context another issue that would need to be

addressed is the short supply of qualified and trained personnel to run

and maintain sophisticated equipment that is required in the

nanotechnology domain.



Content of nanotechnology related postgraduate courses and development of a standard curriculum

A significant issue associated in the context of postgraduate courses in

nanoscience and technology is the development of course content.

UGC has formulated model curriculum for subjects like physics,

chemistry, zoology etc at postgraduate levels. The Curriculum for

biotechnology has also been developed by DBT to ensure a uniform

standard for course content. Further both organisations undertake

periodic revision of the syllabus to make it up-to-date with the latest

developments and also to bring closer the theoretical dimensions and

practical training. However there does not appear to be a model

curriculum or guidelines for the content of the M.Sc. or M.Tech.

courses in the nano-domain. This is a major gap in the context of the

human resource development in nanoscience and technology in India

and must be addressed in the near future as the policy decision to aid

and encourage nanotechnology courses has seen the mushrooming of

several such courses in India. Especially since these courses are likely

to be multidisciplinary, guidelines must be prescribed for the

minimum standards that need to be maintained in context of the

breadth and depth of subjects taught as part of the syllabus across

various institutes. Wide spread consultations with experts must be

conducted while formulating a model curriculum for nanoscience and

technology. Moreover institutes proposing to undertake courses in

nanoscience and technology must be examined for their ability to

impart quality education in a multidisciplinary and emerging science

like nanotechnology before they commence with the course. Here it is

vital that the faculty that takes up the mantle of teaching nanoscience

and technology must be equipped at imparting knowledge about

nanoscale systems and dimensions as well as developing amongst

students an understanding of the junctures at which traditional

disciplines merge to give rise to the interdisciplinary nature of

nanoscience and technology. It has been suggested by faculty at

various universities that refresher courses or workshops oriented

towards nanoscience and nanotechnology might furnish them with the

skills needed to assume such interdisciplinary courses and impart

quality education to students in this area.

While post graduate teaching programs on nanoscience and

technology evolve in various institutes, it is unclear if the content will

lay emphasis on particular discipline/few disciplines or if all the

various dimensions of nanoscience and technology will be addressed

through them. It is the belief of some experts that while courses with

broad content would expose students to a range of subjects from

physics to biology in the context of nanoscale systems they might not

be able to address the depth at which these disciplines are studied in

traditional courses. They argue that grounding in the either a basic or

engineering science is vital for research in nanoscience and technology

unlike the “jack of all trades” approach that might be administered in

nanotechnology courses. Due to this concern has been shown for the



professional prospects of students that graduate from these courses

that are an amalgam of various scientific disciplines but not

constructed to explore them in their entirety. Alternatively, in defence

of the existing system, a strong foundation in a conventional discipline

might be formed at the graduate level through B.Sc. or B.Tech. courses

after which an M.Tech or M.Sc. course in nanoscience and technology

might be undertaken to develop the eye and expertise of nanoscale

systems and also to move across disciplines to develop applications.

The nanoscale dimension rather than embodying a discrete discipline

emerges from traditional disciplines like physics, chemistry etc and

therefore is in reality an extension of either of the traditional sciences.

Moreover application development in nanotechnology will not occur

in isolation but will necessitate the merging of nanoscale systems with

other technologies like photovoltaics, electronics, textiles and

pharmaceuticals that give rise to enhanced products or those with

novel functions. In this sense nanotechnology might be used as a tool

to expand the boundaries of these traditional disciplines. Yet the

unique characteristics at the nanoscale (size, properties) and the

novelty it brings to S&T in terms of techniques used to address and

understand the nanodimensions stretches the boundaries of

traditional disciplines to adopt new approaches to scientific thinking

as well as research and technology development. The convergence of

various disciplines at the nanoscale proffers novel avenues for R&D.

Therefore a balance must be created between tailoring courses that

expose students to the various multidisciplinary dimensions of

nanoscience and technology as well as develop within students a

strong foundation in a particular discipline either in basic sciences

(physics, biology, material science) or engineering disciplines

(electronics, energy systems etc). Incidentally two institutes appear to

have developed individual nanotechnology courses focused on steams

such as physics and medicine (Table 3.7 ). Such approaches to

developing post graduate courses might help in merging the two

dimensions- emphasis on a core subject area with interdisciplinarity

that is characteristic of nanoscience and technology. On the other

hand postgraduate courses in conventional or established disciplines

of either basic, applied or engineering sciences might include those

dimensions of nanoscience and technology that pertains to their niche

areas. For example DBT is revising its guidelines for its biotechnology

curriculum to include nanoscience and technology dimension to

address the nano-biotechnology facet.

Further with regards to the development of human resources in

another emerging technology such as biotechnology it has been

observed that students with biotechnology degrees have not been

readily absorbed by the industry. On the part of the industry it was

perceived students were not trained in a manner that serves their

needs. Therefore since nanotechnology can lead to applications of

great significance it might be noteworthy to consider involving the

perspectives of industry while framing the syllabus for nanoscience



and technology courses. One semester from the course could be

devoted to practical training in R&D laboratories or industry.

Research on potential EHS impacts and toxicological aspects of nanomaterials and nano applications

Nanomaterials by virtue of their size, and other physical and chemical

properties that govern them (such as increased surface area and

quantum effects) display novel and unusual properties not observed in

their larger counter parts. Also there are several routes through which

nanomaterials might be exposed to humans and the environment

from their journey from cradle to grave. Production, transport, storage

and disposal of nanomaterials or products might all form routes of

exposure. Therefore that nanomaterials and products might give rise

to environmental Health and Safety Risks as is becoming increasingly

clear from research emerging from other countries mostly developed

nations.

Almost all of these projects supported by the agencies engaged in

nanotechnology have comprised of R&D for scientific developments

and inquiry as well as technological advances in the nanodomain.

Several products that contain nanomaterials ranging from electronic

appliances, textiles and chemicals (paints, coatings) to cosmetics and

pharma related products are entering the Indian market. R&D

supported by the government will also enable several more nano

applications, products, devices and processes in society In India nearly

240 research projects have been supported by DST through the NSTI

and NSTM and DBT together. Other agencies have also given

considerable research support to R&D in this area. SERC has

approximately supported around 100 projects as well. Yet only a

handful of projects have been supported to test the toxicity of

nanomaterials or products1 (Table 4.1). Therefore the gap between

research that supports nanoscience and technology research and

studies on their environmental and health effects is acutely visible.

1 http// nanomission.gov.in, http://dbtindia.nic.in/uniquepage.asp?id_pk=68



Table 4.1 List of projects supported by various agencies on issues of toxicity, environmental and

health implications of nanomaterials

Source: http://nanomission.gov.in/, http://dst.gov.in/scientific-programme/ser-

serc.htm, http://dbtindia.nic.in/uniquepage.asp?id_pk=68

The initiative to engage with studies of this nature has been a fairly

recent one and was probably ignored during the NSTI due to emphasis

on developing competence in this field and resource constrains. At the

time technology and application development as well as industry

engagement with nanotechnology was also much less. However since

the NSTM in 2007 development of applications in nanotechnology has

taken a front seat so has the involvement of industry been larger. This

might have prompted the decision to undertake toxicity related

research in this domain. In 2008 DBT had also released a call for

proposals on the development of nanobiotechnology, nanoparticle

mediated drug and biomolecule delivery and their toxicological

studies. Another in 2007 that dealt with developing nano related

applications in biology included support for toxicological studies.

Amongst the other objectives of the calls which were to conduct R&D

in nanoscience or technology in specific areas, one of them was to

conduct toxicological studies on materials developed including

commercialised and novel nanomaterial based delivery systems.

In the backdrop of the minimal engagement of developing countries

towards technology related EHS issues, these schemes that have come

within 6 years of India’s nanotechnology initiative amongst tight

budgets and pressures to develop technical capacity in this area is

commendable. However the nature and scale at which studies in the

realm of EHS impacts that have been undertaken leaves much to be

desired especially when compared to the serious EHS implications

nanotechnology might have and the rapid pace at which both public

driven and industry led nanotechnology is progressing within the

country.

Agency / Year Title Locations

DST

2007-08

Fate of nanomaterials in biological systems Industrial Toxicology Research

Centre, Lucknow

DST

2008-09

Ferric pyrophosphate nanoparticles: Feasibility,

bioavailability and toxicity assessments

St. John's Research Institute

Sarjapur Road, Bangalore

SERC

2007-08

Studies on the characterization and toxicological

effects of engineered carbon nanoparticles in

human cell lines and animal models

Centre for Environment, Instt., of

Science & Technology,

Jawaharlal Nehru Technological

University, Hyderabad

Studies On Ecotoxicology Of Engineered

Nanoparticles In

Selected Marine Organisms

Sathyabama University, Chennai

DBT

2007-08

Toxicological Studies Of Newly Developed

Nanomaterials Of Medical Importance Using In

Vivo And In Vitro Model Systems

Indian Institute Of Chemical

Technology, Hyderabad



Nanomaterials and nanotechnology based health related applications

as observed is a fast growing sphere in India with both government

and industry support. Several such products including drug delivery

systems, drugs, antimicrobial sprays, gels and bandages are either

being developed or are in the market. Studies that test the toxicity of

these products are urgently required. On the other hand the

mechanism of conducting rigorous clinical trials for these products

might ensure that EHS issues are addressed. Other products like

nanotextiles and water purifiers in the market must also be subjected

to tests to ensure these materials do not leach out of their embedded

systems and enter the environment upon which they might be exposed

to humans and the ecosystem in general. Development of application

in agriculture including nano-encapsulated pesticides etc as well as for

environmental applications would also introduce similar set of risks.

Apart from these issues several laboratories and a few industrial set

ups are producing nanomaterials or nanoproducts (textiles for

example). Production of nanomaterials might also lead to by product

formation that might be toxic themselves. This scenario lends itself to

not only occupational health and safety issues as well as disposal of

waste and by products. Therefore overall several kinds of studies

might be required in the EHS domain rather than merely generating

toxicity data on nanomaterials or products which in itself is a

challenge due to their large numbers as well as diverse nature. Studies

that look into routes of exposure, exposure limits, developing

equipment that can detect nanomaterials in various environments,

ocuupational hazards and safety, Life Cycle Analysis will all be

necessitated. A vital task would be to decide on strategies to encourage

this kind of research in the country, resolve focus areas and integrate

risk research in existing and future nanotechnology research

especially in the applied side. In the context of toxicity studies either

scientists developing nanmaterials or products, including industry

that hopes to commercialize these products will need to undertake

such studies for which greater funding to the former must be

provided. Or else research groups that specialize in undertaking these

studies might be linked to R&D teams so that EHS impacts of

developed materials or applications are studied simultaneously. A few

Centers that focus on various aspects of the aforementioned risk

research might need to be established.

Risk related research that includes several aspects like hazard

identification, risk assessment, analysis, management are rudimentary

or non-existent in India. However nanotechnology applications are

permeating into society especially due to the broad spectrum of

sectors it can serve, therefore encouraging and supporting EHS

studies together with developing strategies to undertake them in a

planned and systematic fashion together with other R&D endeavours

will pose a huge challenge to the policy makers in the country

including R&D agencies. Until now DST and DBT seem to have

supported R&D in this sphere, however as mentioned earlier both

MoEF and the MoHFW might associate with them to develop a



planned initiative. However this will be necessitated to develop

nanoscience and technology responsibly in India and prevent a

backlash in the future.

Cross disciplinary research, PPPs and technology development

The desire to utilize nanotechnology as a tool to facilitate

socioeconomic development necessitates the development of products

and applications and their commercialisation. This not only demands

emphasis on basic, applied research, but also on technology

development, efforts towards commercialisation and developing inter-

linkages and partnerships amongst the actors in these various

domains. Since nanoscience might feed into several existing

technologies it also necessitates interdisciplinary research. India has

however known to have fallen short on several of these fronts. For

example engagement of Indian industry in the R&D arena was a mere

30% in the past years compared to some other countries like Korea

and Taiwan where it is more than 60%1.

India has been known to traditionally favour basic and theoretical

sciences over technology development. It has been argued that while

basic sciences is India’s forte, we lack quality expertise in engineering

as well as product development and also lack efficient mechanisms

that enable the transfer of research and knowledge from the lab to

market2. Also translational research- that research that has the

capacity to be taken from the laboratory to industry is lacking

probably due to the traditional emphasis on publications in the Indian

S&T system rather than application development. Additionally the

environment for public-private partnerships and industry

participation in public funded research is also perceived as being

under developed when compared to other developed countries. These

gaps intrinsic to the Indian S&T system have also seen to ail the

nanotechnology domain especially in its early years. Aside from these

gaps, technology development in the nano domain brings along with

its own unique challenges of being cost intensive with long gestation

periods as well as in several cases having to be merged with

engineering, applications or devices in other domains. Added to this is

the fact that barring a few instances SMEs and startups are non –

existant in the nanotechnology scenario and venture capital is virtually

non-existent. Therefore India is much behind other developed and

developing countries like China and Korea in this sphere. Thus though

encouraging signs of product development, industry participation and

PPPs in nanoscience and technology appear to dot the nanotechnology

landscape, technology development, for all of the above reasons will

1 Naushad Forbes, Higher Education, Scientific Research and Industrial Competitiveness: Reflections on Priorities for India, 2004, Forbes Marshall, Pune,Science, Technology and Society, Stanford University, Higher education , 2004 2 Dr Vivek Srivastava, Would public research investment create innovative Indian nanotech companies, http://www.nanotech-now.com/columns/?article=193



assume significant challenges in the Indian context. As India

completes nearly a decade of full fledged engagement with

nanoscience and technology a vital need to energise the capacity

building processes that enable rapid and efficient application

development by devising strategies that engage all relevant

stakeholders from the conception of the research.

However there are signs that India might be on the path of building

capacity in this area. Though the strength of Indian engineering

expertise is debated the number of students studying engineering has

also doubled from 6% in 1995-1996 to 11.2% in 2003-2004. Whereas

the official figures for engineering graduate vary (one study has while

quoting an approximate number of 350,000 per year while other

studies have cited numbers ranging from to 450,000 engineering

graduates in the year 2005-06 as well as 1 million graduates in the

year 2006) it is expected that by 2015 there will be 1.4 million

engineering graduates in India.1 These together with the graduates

from recently initiated M.Tech. courses in nanotechnology could help

initiate and enhance application oriented R&D in the nano domain as

well as in the national S&T scenario. In order to close the gap between

basic and applied research the steering committee on S&T have in

their recent report advocated undertaking directed basic research that

might flow from national interest and social needs or industrial

relevance. While small and individual projects will be taken up, stress

has been laid on developing large multicentric projects as well as

institutionalising partnerships between public funded research and

industry. Since knowledge generation is the only deliverable that is

required, it is believed that university based research might well be

comfortable in undertaking directed basic research. This approach

might be used in the nanoscience and technology context to guide the

practitioners of basic research towards applied research and evolve

application oriented projects.

Recently the government also announced new policy measures to

encourage the “development and commercialisation of inventions and

innovations”.2 They include allowing researchers working in public

academic and research institutions to also hold equity in spin off

companies and enterprises and also facilitating mobility of researchers

between academic institutions and industry. The former initiative

would enable new avenues for the translation of innovative lab

research into commercial applications and technology that was

previously undertaken by private companies that are usually risk

averse. This new initiative would encourage scientific

entrepreneurship and allow scientists with promising research in the

nano domain as well as the expertise to create startups and aim for

application development. As nanotechnology is a cost intensive

endeavour, scientists could leverage the facilities, infrastructure and

1 Kirsten Bound, 2007, The Atlas of Ideas: Mapping the new geography of science, India: The uneven innovator 2 http://dst.gov.in/



manpower already developed at their centres to undertake technology

development ventures in nanotechnology. On the other hand the

exchange of personnel amongst academic institutions and industry

will help the transfer of expertise and skills to bring forth new ideas

and knowledge for application development in this area. The

understanding of the concerns and perspectives on both sides would

enable successful PPPs and technology development both of which are

proving to be a major challenge in the nanotechnology arena.

Possible mechanisms for enabling large interdisciplinary research projects and technology development

Since nanotechnology might be utilised to develop applications in

sectors like health, water, energy, agriculture etc interdisciplinary

research that leads to application and technology development will be

crucial. President Kalam had also recommended the creation of

"dynamic task force" to identify national priority areas that

nanotechnology can address and develop goal related projects centred

around these issues. The nanomission could therefore draw insights

from successful technology development programs undertaken in the

Indian scenario. One such program is the CSIR NMITLI program

which aims at indigenous technology development that serves national

or industry interests. It focuses also to develop large projects with

multiple components at utilising the best resources and expertise from

research institutes as well as industry in managing each component.

Projects span areas like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, biotechnology,

chemicals, materials, energy etc. In the six years of existence 42

projects involving 222 public sector partners and 65 private partners

have been initiated. The stringent mechanism that identifies and

selects target research areas as well as potential research partners and

also evaluates R&D progress has resulted in successful ventures for

application development. Other significant features of this program

include the proactive efforts made by policymakers towards research

area identification and team building, wide spread consultation to

develop research ideas and technology and patent mapping. While a

few nanotechnology projects have been undertaken in the NMITLI

scheme, in general the approach developed within this program may

be used as a template to enable technology development and

commercialisation in the nanotechnology domain especially as it

relates to addressing development related challenges in the Indian

context.

Overlap of R&D focus areas amongst diverse agencies engaged in supporting nanoscience and technology R&D

Scientists have acknowledged that a degree of overlap exists in the

context of support for R&D amongst various funding agencies. It has

been suggested that this occurs because these agencies especially



those that are situated in different ministries (e.g. DBT, ICMR, DRDO)

appear to be functioning independently. This scenario it appears has

spilled over into the nanoscience and technology arena as well and

might lead to a problem unless it is addressed effectively. In fact it was

observed that projects that were sanctioned via NSTI/ NSTM as well

as SERC both falling under the umbrella of DST had once again

similar R&D themes like health, energy.

While some experts believe that jurisdiction overlaps in the R&D

context has not posed a major problem1 or led to any significant waste

of resources several others have felt that this overlap in R&D

jurisdictions has hampered Indian S&T to an extent. In fact

recognising this issue as an intrinsic problem and to avoid “carbon

copy” research an initiative has been undertaken by DBT to develop a

database that incorporates information on projects that it has

sanctioned which it is hoped will be available to all agencies. It is

unclear if this database also contains lists of projects supported by

other agencies. In another example in an effort to develop focus in

R&D funding it was felt that DRDO needed to focus on ‘core and

critical areas’ of R&D as it has been engaging in research across

several areas ranging from ‘missiles, radars and electronic warfare

programmes to even juices, mosquito repellents and titanium dental

implants’2.

In the context of nanotechnology common areas of interest amongst

funding agencies might allow for unrestricted and assorted

nanoscience and technology R&D dimensions to be addressed across

the spectrum of areas. Yet however it might lead to various pitfalls.

Support to duplicative research, a major consequence that might arise

from such a situation might lead to a strain on the already constrained

financial resources of the nanotechnology budget if not the Indian

S&T budget, especially since building capacity in nanoscience and

technology is cost intensive. This would also lead to a waste of human

resource efforts as similar research undertaken by different scientists

would be supported. Since R&D involving development of

nanomaterials as well as health and energy in this area is witnessing

multiple agency engagement duplication of R&D in these areas poses a

real threat to scientific resources. Multiple agency engagement with

R&D in a particular area might also contribute to an ambiguity in

identifying an agency to take on responsibility for developing and

implementing sector specific strategy in nanotechnology as well as an

uncertainty amongst researchers as to which agency to approach for

funding specific projects.

1 Experts here argue that each agency has a different “approach” to supporting research in what might be similar areas of R&D. While DST funds research in life sciences it does so at a smaller scale while DBT’s approach has been to develop large networked projects with specific scientific deliverables. The latter also focuses on developing applications for industries and commercialisation of technologies. ICMR on the other hand supports R&D that is of greater significance for public health which might make the basis for its research slightly different from DBT’s. DRDO on the other hand might concentrate on defense related R&D. 2 Rajat Pandit, 2006 DRDO muddles through 439 projects, Times of India



Lack of coordination amongst agencies involved in nanoscience and technology

Since R&D in nanoscience and technology is a platform technology

and therefore might interest diverse agencies there is a need for

coordination amongst them. Since this technology is characterized by

interdisciplinarity especially at applied research and application

development stages, where nanotechnology might converge with other

technology and engineering disciplines, coordination might be

necessitated at a level that is higher than what traditional S&T

endeavors dictate.

However support to nanoscience and technology R&D in similar areas

like health by diverse agencies suggests that there is a lack of

information flow amongst the players involved in R&D policy-making

in this area. The fact that nano projects, even those in similar areas are

sanctioned separately through SERC’s basic and engineering sciences

R&D support schemes as well as NSTI and NSTM, though the latter is

hosted by SERC, both housed under the DST umbrella indicates a lack

of coordination. Even if similar areas were being addressed by these

individual schemes it is unclear why two disparate mechanisms are

needed to fund nanoscience and technology research within the same

agency. Especially since the nanotechnology scenario is otherwise

witnessing the involvement of multiple agencies in similar R&D areas,

the lack of coordination amongst them might exacerbate dangers of

duplicative research previously described to much higher levels.

Once again the lack of coordination observed in the nanotechnology

arena is not peculiar to it but is innate to the Indian S&T processes.

DST in fact in its mandate lists “Co-ordination of areas of Science &

Technology in which a number of Institutions & Departments have

interests and capabilities” as one of its objectives. Yet several experts

believe that coordination amongst agencies across different areas of

R&D is lacking to a large extent. Dr Bhan, secretary DBT has

commented that “If the different departments worked together, they

could avoid duplication and save enormous resources” and also that,

"Right now all agencies work subcritically."1 Indeed the R&D in the

health sector, that forms one of the most promising areas of

nanotechnology as well as the area that sees most inter departmental

involvement has been recognised as having been plagued with a lack

of coordination. It is acknowledged that since ICMR, DBT, DST, CSIR

all fund health research one of the area of immediate attention for the

Ministry of Health was to develop a mechanism to avoid duplication

and overlapping and bring about transparency in research work’. To

address such issues, in the area of health A National Health Research

System has been proposed that will involve all R&D agencies across

1 T. V. Padma, 2005, Rivalry and red tape, Outlook Nature 436, 490-491



ministries and sectors to ensure coordination ‘to avoid duplication,

fragmentation, redundancy and gaps in knowledge’1.In fact a

department of Health has been conceptualised to overcome these

issues and take R&D in health forward efficiently. The inclusion of

health based nanoscience and technology research within this purview

would prevent the support for duplicated or wasted research efforts

across the many agencies involved. Yet how the issue of coordination

amongst agencies involved in other areas of nanoscience and

technology research like agriculture or energy might be addressed

remains unclear. Aside the issue of avoiding support to duplicative

research due to lack of coordination, its absence between agencies

might result in various research dimensions that are ideally suited for

interdisciplinary R&D being funded independently and therefore

undertaken in silos defeating NSTM’s aim of fostering an

interdisciplinary environment in the nano domain. The Indian

nanoscience and technology scenario must guard against these perils

during the course of the development of this technology. However

since the lack of coordination is a problem that is larger in its scale,

comprising the entire S&T system, solutions might lie in addressing it

from a larger and holistic perspective rather in just the context of

nanoscience and technology. On the other hand the nanomission that

commenced in 2007 claims to have “been structured in a fashion so as

to achieve synergy between the national research efforts of various

agencies in Nano Science and Technology and launch new

programmes in a concerted fashion”. As the mission runs its course

until 2012 it remains to be seen how this challenge is addressed in the

context of nanotechnology

Possible way forward

The most obvious solution that would appear to address the above

mentioned challenges would be the creation of a Department of

Nanoscience and Nanotechnology so to speak like the Department of

Biotechnology or the proposed Department of Health. Yet this might

not prove to be the best approach at present since setting up a new

agency necessitates enormous expenditure which for now might be

better suited if spent in building R&D capacities by way of project and

infrastructure support. Also large scale engagement nanotechnology

in India is a relatively new phenomenon unlike the research in health

and so setting up a new department for that purpose might be

premature. Also it might still propagate the same problems as before if

it functions independently of other departments.

Therefore at present it might be more pertinent to form a selected few

groups or committees within the NSTM that might cater to R&D in

respective sectors like health, agriculture, energy, water as well as

significant basic science research like development of nanomaterials

etc. They might include general scientists together with nanoscientists

1 Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India Healthcare: Five Year plan (2007-2012) Report on Health Systems Research, Biomedical Research & Development and Regulation of Drugs & Therapeutics



that work in these broad areas as well as policymakers from various

departments or ministries that hold portfolios defined by these

themes. Recommendations for appropriate R&D support and other

capacity building measures could be recommended by these different

groups and circulated amongst them all before being forwarded to the

Nanoscience Advisory Group and Nano Applications and Technology

Advisory Group and later the Nanomission Council (NMC) that

already exist under the NSTM. Prospects for interdisciplinary research

might be recognized by enabling mechanisms for discussions across

and amongst these different groups. A holistic approach to R&D

development will also necessitate information flow between the NSAG

and the NATAG as well as between them and the NMC. Such a system

already exists in DBT which has 23 task forces that address a variety of

areas in biotechnology for example agriculture, animal, medical

biotechnology, basic research in modern biotechnology including one

on interdisciplinary research etc. In fact task forces for areas like

human resource development, establishing infrastructure and CoEs as

well as for areas like biotechnology for either rural populations or

women also exist. Scientists have acknowleged that these task forces

have enabled focused attention and support to be given in the specific

areas they are tailored for. The experience of this process at DBT

might inform the NSTM on developing capacity in nanotechnology.

Lack of information flow and building networks

During the NSTI tenure several scientists voiced their concern on the

lack of information flow from the policy making agencies especially

the DST that held the reigns for nanotechnology in India.1 The level of

investments, the number of projects and more significantly the nature

and location of the projects supported were oft lamented. The

methods that enable project support from funding agencies were also

largely unclear. This lack of transparency made networking,

information exchange and development of joint projects amongst

scientists difficult since it was not known who was engaging in what

R&D in nanotechnology. However recent initiatives undertaken by

DST and other agencies might help in addressing this issue. Since the

past year a website on the Nanomission that briefly cites its objectives

as well as that of the previous NSTI. It also lists the centres of

excellence and a few public private partnerships undertaken as well as

some initiatives for human resource development. The website also

lists recent initiatives like conferences funded by the mission as well as

details related to project support. It also reveals the formats for

developing proposals for projects under the mission as well as

guidelines for project implementation. More significantly nano

projects sanctioned under the NSTI and NSTM together with their

host institute and principal investigators has been made public. DBT,

1 Lack of information flow a major hurdle for nanotechnology, 2005, Business Line, http://www.blonnet.com/2005/12/05/stories/2005120502230200.htm



DIT and ICMR have also made available the either all projects funded

by them in this area for those funded in specific years. On the other

hand specific lists of those sanctioned by, CSIR, DAE, DRDO have not

been clearly stated although references to area of interest and some

projects might be gleaned from the annual reports of these agencies.

MNRE has refered to a few ongoing nanotechnology projects in its

areas of R&D on its website but it is unclear if this represents a

complete list of the same. On the other hand SERC has not explicitly

made aware that nanoscience and technology projects might be

supported under its basic science and engineering R&D support

schemes though the list of its projects that highlight this information

is on the public domain.

To develop links between experts additionally a database where people

engaging in nanoscience and technology research can register

themselves has also been initiated although it comprises of only 17

registered experts. A formal mechanism to link the various institutes

and experts engaging in nanoscience and technology is yet to be

devised. This is seen as essential to foster an interdisciplinary climate

in the nation particularly in this area.

Development of a potential roadmap for nanoscience and technology

Nano related R&D has since its jumpstart in 2001 come quite a long

way in India. As observed several initiatives are underway and are in

the pipeline. Also many areas have been supported by diverse agencies

in the R&D context. Therefore at this juncture it would be a sound

option to develop a road map for nanoscience and technology in India

for some years into the future that delineates the actions that might be

undertaken, sets time bound goals as well as potential deliverables. A

road map might provide direction and focus to the rapid pace of

initiatives and developments that seem to dot the Indian

nanotechnology landscape and several more that will be undertaken.

One of the studies that might be undertaken in the context of the

Indian nano related R&D is to survey in which area we have developed

expertise in as well as any areas that we have engaged in to some

extent but might want to develop competence in for various reasons. A

survey of the R&D at the international scenario might also be

undertaken to locate any more new areas of potential research that

might be significant in the Indian context or addresses any of our

socio-economic needs. Although some amounts might also be set aside

for general R&D if needed. If core areas of R&D interest that have

been identified include broad sectors like energy, water, health and

agriculture etc, sectoral road maps might also be evolved for each as

has been done in some other countries. A technology foresight

mechanism might be utilised identification of R&D priorities. Through

this exercise apart from surveying research interests, a stock of all the

institutions, infrastructure, facilities and human resources as well as

collaborations developed since the year 2000 might be undertaken to



get a detailed understanding of what has been accomplished and what

gaps remain. These surveys together might allow us to develop more

coherently the core areas that we might want to emphasize while

building R&D capacity and prevent diffuse efforts and fragmentation

of resources. Added to this several experts – policymakers from

various agencies, scientists, industry that has been engaging in

nanotechnology might be approached for opinions on several of the

issues. Developing a roadmap might also provide an opportunity to

help address the issue of developing coordination amongst all the

agencies involved in the nanotechnology R&D policy-making scenario.

A preliminary survey on the status of nanotechnology in India R&D in

Indian has been conducted by the National Foundation of Indian

Engineers and supported by MoST through the National Science and

Technology Management information system (NSTMIS).1 Information

from this might be utilised to devlop a larger road map that takes into

consideration more dimensions.

An initial broad framework with guidelines on issues to be addressed

might help develop a more detailed strategy.

A national advisory committee had been previously set up to guide

R&D in the nanoscience and nanotechnology domain. They have for

example deliberated at the national review and coordination meeting

on nanoscience and nanotechnology. Committee members are listed

in Table 4.2.2 It reveals that apart from scientists including CNR Rao,

policy makers from selected R&D agencies like DST, DRDO are

involved DAE and CSIR are represented by scientists from

laboratories or centres within these organisations, have been included.

Industry has just one representative.

Table 4.2 Depicting National Advisory Committee members for nanoscience and

nanotechnology

Members of National Advisory Committee for NT

Prof. C.N.R. Rao, JNCASR, Bangalore (Chairman)

Prof. P. Rama Rao, ARCI, Hyderabad

Dr. T. Ramasami,, Secretary, DST, New Delhi

Dr. G. Sundararajan, ARCI, Hyderabad

Dr. Rao V. Aiyagari, DST, New Delhi

Prof. D. Chakravorty, IACS, Kolkata

Dr. G.V. Shivashankar, NCBS, Bangalore

Prof. M.K. Sanyal, SINP, Kolkata

Prof. A.K. Sood, IISc, Bangalore

Prof. A. R. Raychaudhuri, S.N. Bose Centre, Kolkata

Dr. B.M. Arora, TIFR, Mumbai

Dr. Baldev Raj, IGCAR, Kalpakkam

Dr. D. Banerjee, DRDO, New Delhi

Prof. G.K. Mehta, Inter-University Accelerator Centre,

1 study on Status of nanotechnology in Indina Industry & Academia /R&D Labs, 2008, National Foundation of Indian Engineers, supported by DST 2 http://nanomission.gov.in/AbstractBook_NSNT-07.pdf



New Delhi

Dr. K.N. Ganesh, NCL, Pune

Prof. B.N. Dev, IACS, Kolkata

Dr. S.K. Kaura, Samtel Color Ltd., New Delhi

Dr. Praveer Asthana, DST, New Delhi

Source: http://nanomission.gov.in/AbstractBook_NSNT-07.pdf

However as several other agencies are involved in nanoscience and

technology at present in India, it might help if representatives from

DBT, DIT, MNRE and ICMR and industry are represented as well to

ensure diverse perspectives and research interests are taken on board.

This would also ensure better coordination and avoid research support

overlaps.

Some attempts have been made by individual researchers for example

Dr Maitra to develop national roadmaps. However it would be of

national interest to develop such a roadmap taking into consideration

views and perspectives of different stakeholders- researchers from the

scientific and social sciences community, industry, policy makers from

diverse agencies engaged in nanotechnology, development

professionals that might help identify priority areas that

nanotechnology might address, risk related professionsls and civil

society etc.

Multistakeholder engagement with S&T issues and decisions in India

is rare and usually the prerogative of the policy and scientific research

community. The nanotechnology trajectory in India has also largely

been shaped by policymakers. However in the nanoscience and

technology context there is much to gain from engaging multiple

stakeholders. For example since nanotechnology is cost intensive

development professionals might help identify priority areas that

nanotechnology might address, risk professionals might help develop

strategies for risk management etc. Policymakers from other agencies

like the Planning Commission and Ministry of Commerce as well as

industry associations like CII and FICCI who are also leading industry

engagement in nanotechnology in India might also be involved. This

approach would help identify and explore the benefits, challenges and

risks this technology poses to India and strategize to channel its

potential in a sustainable manner, for national benefit. On the other

hand India while developing its national strategy might also draw

from existing strategies of developed countries’. However caution

must prevail on this front and in the use of this approach as contexts,

priorities and needs of a developing and diverse country like ours

could be very different to other developed or even developing country

counterparts especially in areas as mentioned above.


Overall Conclusions of the work

The present study on aimed towards understanding how

nanotechnology R&D related capacity is being built in India

together and how its trajectory is being shaped arrives at the

following conclusions. The conclusions have been divided into

two parts – first, key observations with respect to

nanotechnology developments in India and the role of policy

support therein; second, key challenges and opportunities that

exist for development of nanotechnology in India.

Nanotechnology developments and policy support in India At present development in nanotechnology in India is at a

formative stage and intense effort would be needed on the part of

research organisations and industry to successfully engage with

such technologies. In this regard, major funding for

nanotechnology R&D is being provided by government agencies.

Although private sector is exploring the opportunities in

nanotechnology, its expenditure is very small as yet.

DST is the main driver for nanotechnology development in India,

although several other agencies like DBT and DIT play a strong

role. It has played a clear role in undertaking flagship programs,

major investments, establishing CoEs and enhancing laboratory

facilities, developing human resources and forging international

collaborations. It has also tried to develop links between public

funded research and the industry. DST has been providing the

requisite support to nanotechnology R&D through its NSTI and

the Nano Mission.

Beside DST, several others like CSIR, ICMR, DAE, DRDO, MNRE

and Planning Commission are also involved in enabling the

expansion of this technology in India although mainly through

smaller roles. These agencies have made smaller investments and

have largely participated through support to R&D in their niche

areas and building associated infrastructure and human resources.

There are yet other government agencies, which although not

engaged with nanotechnology R&D at present, have a clear scope

for enhancing this capacity, are ICAR, Ministry of Commerce,

Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of Food Processing

Industries. MoEF can play a key role in filling the gap in nano risk

studies by encouraging toxicity related studies.

While engagement of diverse agencies suggests many avenues

might be pursued holistically challenges that have emerged from

this include the overlapping activities and a lack of coordination

amongst agencies both of which are intrinsic to the Indian S&T



system. In fact engagement of some of the agencies might

complicate the state’s agenda for nanotechnology R&D due to

multiplicity and duplicity.

The rapid and growing interest in nanotechnology has been a

global phenomenon and country level programmes have been

initiated in several countries. India’s NSTI also coincided with

these developments in other countries, significantly the US.

However, in terms of investment in nanotechnology, India lags

behind developed and some other countries like China. Despite

a mission mode and public investments for nanotechnology,

scientists have cautioned that more investments are needed to

engage in cutting edge research, build state of the art

infrastructure, and develop applications.

In the Indian scenario, a larger emphasis has been on

strengthening R&D in fundamental science, India’s traditional

strength. However, technology development is also receiving

policy focus and institutional support from the government now.

Thus, the main areas of R&D are development of nanomaterials,

synthesis, routes, characterization and investigation into their

properties is a major focus area. Basic and applied research for

the chemical and manufacturing industry is also being

promoted. R&D support for applications with relevance for

development needs in areas such as health, energy, agriculture

and environment is also being provided. Of these, health

applications have received maximum attention both from the

government and industry.

Developing human resources has been highlighted as a key

objective in the programmes initiated and undertaken. While

initiatives like fellowships and trainings were facilitated for the

same in the NSTI, the NSTM has been characterized by the

evolution of postgraduate courses, with a focus on both

nanoscience and technology development.

Several Centres of excellence have been established to develop

either nanoscience research or to take on the development of

applications in various spheres. It however appears that more of

these CoEs are based at autonomous research institutes rather

than universities, thus creating concerns about the latter’s

capacity and role in leading the nanotechnology R&D. Regionally,

Bangalore and Kolkata appear to be developing into hubs for

nanoscience and technology R&D with six centres (developed and

proposed).

Southern part of India, which is already a hub for biotechnology

and information technology, might facilitate the convergence of

these technologies and leverage its position in emerging as a

Nano-hub. A few state governments have also been involved in



the recent years in facilitating capacity building in this domain.

Karnataka, Haryana and Tamil nadu have taken the lead with

either the development of proposed nanotechnology parks or

supporting major visibility enhancers like international

conferences etc.

Challenges and opportunities The study has also identified some challenges, that if addressed

and opportunities if used, might enhance the capacity building

initiative.

One of the biggest challenges in harnessing the potential of

nanotechnology and building associated R&D capacity, has been

in terms of the interdisciplinary nature of nanotechnology per se

and the scope of its applications. Given that the technology

draws from several disciplines and is applied in conjunction

with other technologies, interdisciplinary research is central to

nano science and technology R&D. These characteristics and the

optimism regarding potential application of nanotechnology in a

whole range of spheres, has to an extent lead to significant

overlaps in the areas for R&D support offered/identified by

different agencies. For instance, in health, a strong engagement

of agencies like DST, DBT, and ICMR as well as the involvement

of others like CSIR and even DRDO has been present.

Overlapping R&D support might lead to duplicative R&D efforts

and a waste of financial and human resources in this already cost

intensive domain. The consequent multiplicity of institutions

raises other concerns like lack of coordination, information flow,

overlapping mandates and jurisdictions. Lack of coordination

amongst the various agencies involved in building capacity could

hamper the expansion of interdisciplinary research as work will be

undertaken in silos due to lack of information flow.

An inadequate flow of information between policy makers and the

scientific population as well as amongst policy makers acts as a

barrier in developing real capacity due to inability to leverage

upon existing capacity, expertise and initiatives. Although setting

up of nano mission has to an extent met this challenge, but this

information access is limited to DST initiatives. Information

about activities and plans of many other agencies with respect to

fostering nanotechnology is still not readily accessible.

Gap between basic research and application is a challenge in

nanotechnology, like several other technologies. Traditional

leanings towards basic science research and lack of industry

participation in public R&D along with weak mechanisms to

facilitate PPPs have obstructed technology development in India.

Since nanotechnology is cost and risk intensive and might be

characterized by long R&D incubation periods, industry



participation is small. However as policy makers begin to stress on

product and process or rather deliverable oriented R&D and

policies that encourage scientific entrepreneurship, a more

conducive environment for public-private partnerships and

technology development.

An overview of the nanotechnology research focus in India reveals

that research with respect to risks associated with nanotechnology

has been lacking. Nanotechnology applications might have the

potential to pose diverse EHS risks to consumers and the public.

While a few toxicological studies have been supported by various

agencies the rate of R&D and the development of applications

especially in the area of health and others like water filters and

textiles warrants that larger initiatives are made on this front.

Being cost and risk intensive, the area of nanotechnology is a

difficult terrain to enter not only for application or

commercialisation but also research and development.

Sophisticated and complex equipment, technical know-how and

capacity are essentials for R&D in the nano-domain. Therefore,

financial constraints often act as an impediment in this regard.

Although centre of excellence have been set up and infrastructure

support has been provided, these have been restricted to a few

large cities and therefore inaccessible to the rest of the universities

or institutes for facilitating the efficient growth in R&D capacity.

The development of an overall strategy or a time and deliverable

bound roadmap for nanoscience and technology needs to be

addressed. This could cover a SWOT analysis of the R&D capacity

in the nano-domain in India and also address the areas of strategic

interest and if possible even road maps for nano R&D in those

particular sectors. The roadmap could also integrate risk studies

including risk assessment, management and mitigations well as

understanding avenues of exposure to nano materials within the

overall nanotechnology development framework. As a critical R&D

mass has been developed in the country this approach might avoid

a strain on resources.

The study proposes that multi stakeholder engagement that

includes representatives from not only policy makers and

scientists but also development professionals, social scientists,

industry and risk professionals might be sought to formulate

such a roadmap. This could be done through greater interaction

between state and the industry as well as within the

government.


Annexure I Projects Sanctioned 2008-2009 (upto 5th December, 2008)

S. No. Title PI & Add

1 PG Teaching Programmes (M.Sc. - Duration 2 Years) in Nano

Science and Technology with an annual intake of 15 students

Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar-143005

2 PG Teaching Programmes (M.Tech. - Duration 2 Years) in

Nano Science and Technology with an annual intake of 20

students

Centre for Nanotechnology and Advanced Biomaterials

SASTRA University Thanjavur

3 Augmentation of computing resources for simulation and data

analysis at the inter university accelerator centre

Inter University Accelerator Centre

New Delhi

4 Nanostructuring by erergentic ion beams Inter University Accelerator Centre, New Delhi

5 Ferric pyrophosphate nanoparticles: Feasibility, bioavailability

and toxicity assessments

Molecular Medicine and Clinical Proteomics

St. John's Research Institute, Bangalore

6 Novel strategies to use nanotechnology methods in cellular &

clinical oncology

Calcutta University Kolkata-700019

7 PG Teaching Programmes (M.Tech. - Duration 2 Years) in

Nano Science and Technology with an annual intake of 20

students

Deptt.of Bio & Nano Technology

Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology

Hisar-125001

8 PG Teaching Programme (Integrated M.Tech-Duration 3

Years) in Nano Science and Technology at University of Delhi

Department of Physics & Astrophysics, University of

Delhi

9 Ramanna Fellowship School of Chemistry, University of Hyderabad

10 Development of bulk nano-crystalline materials: Nanoparticle

synthesis and consolication

IIT Madras

11 PG Teaching Programme (Integrated M.Tech-Duration 3

Years) in Nano Science and Technology at VIT

University,Vellor

School of Electrical Sciences, Vellor Institute of

Technology University

12 PG Teaching Programmes (M.Sc. Nano Physics-Duration 2

Years) in Nano Science and Technology

Osmania University, Hyderabad

13 Preparation of Silicon Sheets by Capillary Action Shaping

Technique (CAST) for Solar Cell Applications

Panjabi University, Patiala

14 Preparation of Silicon Sheets by Capillary Action Shaping

Technique (CAST) for Solar Cell Applications

Guru Govind Singh University, Delhi

15 Potential use of Nanoparticles for DNA Vaccine in fish model to

control becterial and viral diseases

C.Abdul Hakeem College, Melvisharam-632509

16 Potential use of Nanoparticles for DNA Vaccine in fish model to

control becterial and viral deseases

School of Chemical Sciences, University of Madras

17 P.G. Teaching Programmes(M.Tech. Nano Medical Science) at

Nano Science and Technology At Amrita Institute of Medical

Sciences

Amrita Centre for Nanosciences,Amrita Vishwa

Vidyapeetham, Kerala

18 Detection of Latent Fingerprints by Nanoparticles-size

Compositions

SGTB Khalsa College, University of Delhi

19 Photoinduced reactions between Nanosized Quantum Dots of

CdTe and porphyrins/rins/Metallo-Porphyrins

Bharathidasan University, Palkalaiperur

Tiruchirapalli



20 Theoretical Investigations of Photophysics and Photo

Chemistry of DNA using metal nano particles

Centre for Computational Natural Sciences and

Bioinformatics IIIT, Gachibowli, Hyderabad

21 Theoretical Investigations of Photophysics and Photo

Chemistry of DNA using metal nano particles

Indian Institute of Science , Bangalore

22 Synthesis and Applications of Nanoparaticles in Ionic Liquids Department of Chemistry, Shivaji University

Kolhpur

23 P.G. Teaching Programmes(M.Tech. Nano Technology) in

Nano Science and Technology at Z.H. College of Engineering

& Technology, Aligarh Muslim University,

Z.H. College of Engineering & Technology

Aligarh Muslim University

24 Institute of Nano Science & Technology(INST) Mohali Indian Institute of Science Education and Research

Chandigarh

25 Measurement of Optical Non-Linerarities in Wide Bandgap II-IV

Semiconductor Quantum Dots Suitable for All-Optical

Switching Devices

Delhi University South Campus

26 Effect of Interface Morphology and Spatial Distribution of

Nanoparticles on Optical and Thermal Properties of Polymer

Nanocomposites

Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Science

Bangalore

Projects Sanctioned 2007-2008

Sl. No. Title PI & Add

1. Development of nanomaterial enhanced high performance coated textiles Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi

New Delhi

2. Inorganic Organic hybrid nanocomposite coatings for Nano Technological

applications

Central Glass & Ceramic Research

Institute, Jadavpur, Kolkata

3. Rare earth doped nanocrystalline spinel ferrites: Promising materials for

magneto-optical storage media

Burdwan University, Golapbag

Burdwan

4. Physical principles relevant to nanoscale devices and biological motors in

the Brownian regime

The Institute of Mathematical Sciences

Chennai

5. Development and Characterization of Semiconducting

nanotubes/nanorods for thermoelectric applications

Indian Institute of Technology-Kharagpur

Kharagpur

6. Synthesis, Contact less conductivity magnetic and Electron Magentic

Resonance investigations of nano-manganites (mainly charge ordered)

Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

7. New nanoporous materials for selective gas adsorption and separation

processes


8. Effective functionalization of carbon nanotubes using

amphiphilic/hydrophilic dendrimers and phase transfer catalysts

Madras University, Guindy Campus

Chennai

9. Development of nano metal oxides incorporated refractories for refractory

applications

KS Rangasamy College of Technology

Tiruchengode

10. Design of nanometal/metal oxide/composite oxide promoted nanoporous

meterials for catalytic applications

Regional Research Laboratory

Bhubneswar

11. Size dependent physical properties of ferromagentic and ferroelectric

nanoparticles

National chemical Laboratory, Pune

12. Layered hydroxides as candidate precursors for nanoparticulate oxide

materials

Central College Bangalore University

Bangalore

13. Magnetic nanopacticulates for controlled and targeted drug delivery Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay

Powai

14. Development of nano dispersed Polycrylates for optical applications Shriram Instt. Of Indl. Res., New Delhi

15. Synthesis of magnetic and semi conductor oxide nanomaterials from St. Joseph's College, Bangalore



hydroxide precursores and layered solid nanoparticle nanocomposites

16. Establishment of a Centre for Nano Technology Hyderabad University, Hyderabad

17. Establishment of a Nano Functional Materials Technology Centre

(NFMTC)

Indian Institute of Technology-Madras

Chennai

18. Development and characterisation of nanocomposite mullite: A study Jadavpur University, Kolkata

19. Mechanical properties at the nano-scale Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore -

20. Novel nanoscale materials: generation , characterization and device

applications

Centre for Nanotechnology

Indian Institute of Technology-Guwahati

21. Microscopic investigation of luminescence and mechanical properties of

nanostructured porous silicon

Bengal Engineering & Science University

Shibpur, Howrah

22. Developing comprehensive bottom-up strategies for functional

nanostructures


23. Nanostructured self-assembled polymer blend systems from epody

resin/block copolymer systems for super toughness

Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam,

Kerala.

24. Development of solar light driven nanostructured ZnIn2S4 photocatalyst

for hydrogen generation

Centre for Materials for Electronics

Technology (C-MET), Pune

25. Establishing Centre for Nanotechnology(Nanoparticles, Nanosensors and

Nanodrug delivery) at Madurai Kamaraj University

Madurai Kamaraj Univesity, Madurai -

26. Physics and applications of nanocrystalline maerials and semiconductor

quantum devices

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research

Mumbai

27. Research programme on Smart and Innovative Textiles (SMITA) Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi

28. Biosequestration and bio-impregnation of heavy metals leading to

nanomaterials synthesis and decontamination of industrial effluent

Raja Balwant Singh College, Agra

29. Biosequestration and bio-impregnation of heavy metals leading to

nanomaterials synthesis and decontamination of industrial effluent

National Physical Laboratory, New Delhi

30. Pd bi-metal nanoparticle and multilayer structures for improved

hydrogenation in rare earth switchable mirrors

Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi

31. Preparation and Characterization of SiO2 and TiO2 hollow nanospheres in

reverse microemulsion system

National Institute of Technology

Rourkela

32. Fate of nanomaterials in biological systems Industrial Toxicology Research Centre

Lucknow

33. Synthesis and characterization of nanoporous materials Dr. Hari Singh Gour University, Sagar –

470003

34. Field effect Transistors based on epitaxial multicomponent oxide

heterostructures

Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur

35. Synthesis and characterisation of nano-crystalline co-doped Ceria, CeO2

based solid electrolytes for Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel

Cells (ITSOFC)

Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi -

36. Technology CAD of nano-MOSFETs in Hybrid Orientation Technology IIT-Kharagpur, Kharagpur

37. Studies in micro and nanorheology of soft materials Bangalore University, Jnanabharathi

Campus, Bangalore

38. Semiconductor quantum dots for optical storage applications Delhi University, New Delhi

39. Cleanroom infrastructure for National Nanofabrication Centre at the Indian

Institute of Science, Bangalore


40. PG Teaching Programmes (M.Tech 2 Years) in Nano Science and

Technology at Anna University, Chennai (With Annual Intake of 15

Students)

Centre for Nanoscience and Technology

Anna University, Chennai


Technology at GGS Indraprastha University, New Delhi (With Annual

Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha

University, New Delhi



Intake of 15 Students)


Technology at Jadavpur University, Kolkata, (With Annual Intake of 18

Students)

Materials Science and Technology

Jadavpur University, Kolkata

43. National Facility on Ultra High Resolution Aberration-Corrected

Transmission Electron Microscope at International Centre for Materials

Research, JNCASR, Bangalore

Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced

Scientific Research, Bangalore

44. Electro nanoprocessing of semiconductor nanotube arrays for high

efficiency photovoltaics

Amrita Centre for Nanosciences

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi

45. Development of electrically conducting polyaniline nano-materials via self-

assembly approach and their application in sensors and opto-electronics

Indian Institute of Science Education &

Research, Pune

Projects Sanctioned - 2006-07

Sl No. Title PI & Add

1. Nanophosphors for flat panel displays and quantum well structures

grown by pulsed laser deposition technique

Cochin University of Science &

Technology, Kochi

2. Centre for Protein Nanoscience Anna University, Chennai

3. Synthesis and characterization of carbon nanotubnes using mesoporous

MCM-41 molecular sieves - its application for memory devices in

supercomputer

Anna University, Guindy Campus

Chennai

4. Synthesis of Semiconductor nanoparticles for harnessing magnetic and

optical properties

Tezpur University, Napaam

Tezpur

5. Mechanosynthesis and mechanical thermal synthesis of in-situ

Aluminium based nanocomposites and their characterization

IIT-Kharagpur, Kharagpur

6. Designing and generation of novel efficient biotags and drug-carriers

(nano gold, Fe2O3 and doped Y2O3) via Sol-Gel Process (with and

without reverse micelles)

Allahabad University, Allahabad

7. Silver Nanoparticles - Potential applications in Sericulture Thiruvalluvar University, Fort Campus

Vellore

8. Decay dynamics of nanomaterials for nanophotonic and biophonotic

applications

IACS, Jadavpur, Kolkata

9. Magnetic Nanoparticle: thin Film (functional) Hybrid Systems National Chemical Laboratory, Pune

10. Nanophosphor-Tagged-Nanogold Immunoglobulin Conjugates in

molecular characterization of Lysosomal Transport Vesicles - A

Proteomics based study & Detection of herbicides and heavy metals -

contaminants in polluted waters : Construction of a PSII based bio

Allahabad University, Allahabad

11. Development of nanostructured transducers for amperometric and

microgravimetric sensing applications


12. Tissue Engineering School of Chemical & Biotechnology

SASTRA, Vallam, Thanjavur

13. Preparation and characterization of nanosized TiO2 and studies on its

photodegradation capability of model organic pollutants

Birla Institute of Technology & Science

Zuarinagar

14. Functional nanomaterials of n-conjugated molecules Regional Research Laboratory

Trivandrum

15. A Study on nanostructured metal oxides preparation, characterization

and the effects of swift heavy ion irradiation for possible applications in

photoelectrochemical splitting of water

Dayalbagh Educational Institute

Agra



16. Star-burst, linear and cross-linked macromolecule-metal nanoparticle

hybrids as efficient recyclable catalysts

IIT-Kanpur, Kanpur

17. Functional organic and bionanomaterials: Synthesis, characterization

and evaluation

National Chemical Laboratory, Pune

18. Decoding the hydrogen-bonding networks in stimuli-responsive Poly-N-

Acrylamids

National Chemical Laboratory, Pune


Sl.

No.

Title PI & Address

19. Oxide based nanomaterials and nanocomposites for magnetic memory

and sensor applications

University of Delhi, New Delhi

20. Nanolithography in color and design of microfluidic devices. Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati

21. Growth of nanoparticles of wide band gap semiconductors (CdS/CdSSe)

in glass matrices for optical filters and study of physics of quantum

confinement for photonic applications.


Technology, Pune

22. Modular synthesis of cryptand based nanostructures. Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur

23. Upconverting nanophospors for photonic applications. Central Glass & Ceramic Research

Institute, Kolkata

24. Magnetic, optical and electronic properties of semiconducting

nanoparticles doped with magnetic impurities.


25. Studies on effect of mineral nanofillers on the mechanical and processing

properties of polymers and their industrial applications.

North Maharashtra University, Jalgaon

26. Synthesis of nanostructured magnetic materials for different applications. Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai

27. Design of New and Novel Nanoconstruction Tools. Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai

28. Nanostructuring of hard and soft films via pattern transfer. Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

29. Carbon nanotubes based sensors. Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

30. Nano M/CeO2 and M/TiO (M = Cu, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Pt, Pd etc.) for

catalysis applications.


31. Electronic transport in molecular nano-systems. JN Centre for Advanced Scientific

Research, Bangalore

32. Development of Nano-wires and Nano-structural thin flims of Boron for

potential applictions.

Osmania University, Hyderabad

33. Studies on nanomaterials and devices. University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad

34. Upgradation of exsiting UHV chamber preparation and investigation of the

properties of nanostructured materials.

University of Madras, Chennai

35. Nano Science and Technology : A Transdisciplinary approach. Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi

36. Preparation and characterization of metallic and semiconducting nanowire. Bidhannagar College, Kolkata

37. Size-selective electrodeposition of metal, metal oxide and conducting

polymer nanoparticles and their Nanocomposites for Technological

applications.

Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai

38. Fabrication of pure metal and alloy films as interconnects for

nanoelectronics and nano-electrodes by e-beam lithography and study of

their stability towards electro, thermal and stress migration.


39. Development of nanophosphors for industrial applications. National Physical Laboratory, New Delhi

40. Development of state-of-the-art analytical electron Microscopy facility

capable of high-resolution imaging and analysis in the nanoscale as an




Institute facility at the Indian Institute of Science.

41. Metal-oxide core-shell nanostructures for removal of toxins from water and

atmosphere.

Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi

42. Synthesis, characterization and applications of nanosized oxide materials. Bangalore University, Bangalore

43. Development of nanofluidic channels and nanowires using biomolecular

self-assembly.

University of Agricultural Sciences,

Bangalore

44. Development and properties of polymer based nanocomposites. Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur

45. Synthesis and characterization of Ni-P electroless composite coatings with

nanosized particles.

Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee

46. Thermal and electrical conduction in nano-fluids. Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai

47. Tailoring of room temperature Excitonic Luminescence in Mgx Zn1-x

O/SiO2 nanocomposites and fabrication of electroluminescent devices.

Indian Association for the Cultivation of

Science, Kolkata

48. Investigation of the dissolution kinetics of some nano sized metal

catalysts.

University of Delhi, Delhi

49. Construction of an optical tweezer for nanometer scale rhelogy. Bangalore University, Bangalore

50. Nano Sized semi conducting oxide powders, films and catalysts by gas

phase codensation for gas sensor applications.


51. Excess protons electrons and metal atoms in hydrogen bondedd

nanoclusters: Studies of structural dynamical and electronic aspects

through ab-initio molecular dynamics.

Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur

52. Optical and electronic studies of photoactive molecules capped on metal

nanoparticles and their molecularly bridged arrays on surfaces.

Regional Research Laboratory,

Thiruvananthapuram

53. Development of device-grade nanomaterials using ion beams. University of Mumbai, Mumbai


Sl.

No.

Title PI & Address

54. Synthesis of Nano-sized Metastable oxide solid solutions and studies

of their properties.

IIT, Kharagpur

55. Investigations of the properties and phenomena exhibited by

Nanomaterials: nanofabrication, lithography and related aspects.

JNU Cen. for Adv. Scientific Res.,

Bangalore

56. Combinational DNA chips coupled with nanoparticle probe for

scanometric detection.


57. Metal nanocluster doped coloured coatings on glasses and plastics

using Sol-Gel Techniques.

Central Glass and Ceramic Res. Instt.,

Kolkata

58. Investigation of complex metal based nanosized using the reverse

micellar, polymeric precursor and hydrothermal routes.

IIT, New Delhi

59. Optical and Morphological investigations of nanoparticles using

scanning near field Optical Microscopy(SNOM).

Univ. of Poona, Pune

60. Indian instt.of Science Nano science and Technology initiative. IISC, Bangalore

61. DNA-Gold/Silver composite Nanoparticles: Design, Assembly and

Functionalisation.

NCL, Pune

62. Nanoparticles, nanowires and nanofilms: Synthesis, characterization,

self assembly and patterning.

IIT, Kanpur

63. Self-assembly of dendritic nanoreactors on electrode surfaces - The

case of electrocatalysis.

Cen. Electrochemical Res. instt.,

Karaikudi

64. Magnetic and electrical properties of nanostructured and Univ. of Madras, Chennai



nanocomposite magnetic materials.

65. Application of semiconductor and metal nanoparticles in

photoelectrochemistry and catalysis.

Madurai Kamraj University, Madurai

66. Investigating the influence of micro/nano structures of the dispersed

crystalline phase in glasses on their mechanical behaviour.

BHU, Varanasi

67. A new approach for the development of nanocrystalline apinel ferrite Vidyasagar University, Midnapore

68. Synthesis and characterization of iron/nickel based nanomaterials

using gas reduction and coating techniques.

IIT Roorkee

69. Single molecule and interfacial processes in nanobiology. Anna University, Chennai

70. Structural electronic and gas-sensing properties of SnO2 Ag

composite nanoparticle thin films.

IIT New Delhi

71. Nanomaterials and nanotechnology-processes, characterization and

applications.

IIT Chennai

72. Lithium nanoferrites by chemical method. lT Instt.of P.G. Teaching and Res.

Ratnagiri

73. Synthesis and characterization of nanocomposites involving a

disordered medium.

IACS Kolkata

74. Development and tailoring of properties of Al based amorphous alloys

through evolution of nanophases.

National metallurgical Laboratory

Jamshedpur

75. Development of nanocrystalling materials of different processing

routes.

IIT Kharagpur

NO. of Institution : 8

Projects Sanctioned 2005-06

SL.

No

Title PI & Add

76. Investigation of Electronic and Phonon Properties of Nasnostructured

Materials

Materials Physics Laboratory, Barkatullah

University, Bhopal

77. Biomimetic route to hybrid nano-Composite scaffold for tissue

engineering

National Metallurgical Laboratory,

Jamshedpur

78. Nanomaterials: Synthesis, characterization and Applications Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam

79. Carbon nano-tube based materials for electrochemical devices Central Electrochemical Research

Institute (CECRI), Karaikudi

80. Probing nanometer scale dynamics of chromatin fluidity using single

molecule force & fluorescence microscopy/spectroscopy

National Centre for Biological Sciences

TIFR, Bangalore

81. Nanostructural materials synthesized by hydrothermal and

combustion/microwave routes and their applications

Bangalore University, Central College

Campus, Bangalore

82. Engineering nanoscale materials and their application in

nanotechnology

IIT-Guwahati, North Guwahati

Guwahati

83. Synthesis and characterization of transition metal doped BaTiO3

nanoparticles

Visva Bharati, Santiniketan

84. Synthesis and characterization of nanostructured materials for

functional (magnetic, sensor, opto-electronic and chemical) and

structural (hard coating and heterostructure) applications


85. Design and development of super hard graded nanocomposite

coatings for industrial applications & Functional nanocomposite

ceramic coatings: Fabrication, characterization & applications

IIT-Roorkee, Roorkee



86. Investigation of the synthesis and characterization of functional/multi-

component nanostructued

(nanotube/nanorod/nanoribbon/nanocables) polyaniline based

materials

Alagappa University, Karaikudi

87. Semiconductor Nanostructures Anna University, Chennai



Annexure II Projects Sanctioned during 2007-2008 (Duration : 3 years)

File No. & Date Title PI & Address

List of Basic Sciences Projects Sanctioned during 2007-2008 (Duration : 3 years)

SR/S0/BB-66/2006

04.05.2007

Studies on the characterization and

toxicological effects of engineered

carbon nanoparticles in human cell

lines and animal models

Dr. V. Himabindu

Centre for Environment, Instt., of Science &

Technology, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological

University, Hyderabad-500072

SR/S0/BB-66/2006

04.05.2007

Studies on the characterization and

toxicological effects of engineered

carbon nanoparticles in human cell

lines and animal models

Dr. D.R. Krishnamoorthy

University College of Pharmeceutical Sciences,

Kakatiya University, Warangal-506009

SR/S2/CMP-49/2004

10.04.2007

Laser induced photoluminescence

and morphological studies of

nanophosphors

Dr. H.S. Bhatti

Deptt. Of Physics, Punjab University

Patiala-147002

SR/S2/CMP-34/2006

20.04.2007

Physics and modeling of silicon

nanophysics devices

Prof. P.K. Basu

Deptt. Of Radio Physics & Electronics

Calcutta University, Kolkata-700009

SR/S2/CMP-50/2006

28.06.2007

Soft electrochemical processing of

MnAs based nanocomposites for

near room temperature magnetic

refrigeration

Dr. S.H. Pawar

Deptt. Of Physics, Shivaji University

Kolhapur-416004

SR/S2/CMP-43/2006

27.07.2007

Preparation and characterization of

soft magentic nanocomposite

materials

Dr. Pabitra Chakrabarti

Deptt. Of Physics, Burdwan University

Burdwan-713104

SR/S2/CMP-77/2006

27.07.2007

A study on nano granular magentic

phase embedded in semiconductor

for spintronics

Dr. P.C. Srivastava

Deptt. Of Physics, Banaras Hindu University

Varanasi-221005

SR/S2/CMP-46/2003

19.09.2007

Mossbauer studies of nano-

strructured materials

Dr. Saurabh Giri

Deptt. Of Solid State Physics, Indian Association for

the Cultivation of Science

Kolkata-700032

SR/S2/CMP-66/2006

27.09.2007

Development of nano crystalline

hydroxyapatite-polymer composite

for drug design and biomedical

applications Synthesis of doped

CulnO2 thin films for bipolar

conductivity applications

Dr. N. Meenakshisundaram

Centre for Nano Science and Technology &

Biotechnology

KS Rangasamy College of Technology

Tiruchengode-637209

SR/S2/CMP-74/2006

27.09.2007

Nano-Material hydroxyapatite as a

CO gas sensor

Dr. R.S. Khairnar

Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University,

Nanded-431606

SR/S2/CMP-04/2006

10.10.2007

Study of Ferrite nanoparticles Dr. Kalyan Mandal

Deptt. Of Condensed Matter Physics

SN Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences

Kolkata-700098

SR/S2/CMP-62/2006

18.10.2007

Hybrid capacitor with nano-materials

for zero-emission vehicles

Dr. M. Siluvai Michael

Deptt. Of Chemistry

SSN College of Engineering




SSN Nagar-603110

SR/S2/CMP-59/2006

22.10.2007

Production of nano structured

multilayer coating for industrial

applications

Dr. A. Chitharanjan Hegde

Deptt. Of Chemistry


Mangalore-575025

SR/S2/CMP-54/2006

26.10.2007

Electronically tunable properties of

nanocluster assembled films

Dr. Bansal Chandrahas

School of Physics, Hyderabad University

Hyderabad-500046

SR/S2/CMP-02/2007

15.01.2008

GaN-nanowires to 'flat' microcrystals

for direct dservice fabrication by the

Vapor-Liquid Solid (VLS) growth

route

Dr. Srinivasan Raghavan

Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of

Science, Bangalore-560012

SR/S2/CMP-20/2007

23.01.2008

Development of humidity and gas

sensors using conducting polymer

Nan composites

Dr. MVN Ambika Prasad

Deptt. Of Materials Science, Gulbarga University

Gulbarga-585106

SR/S2/CMP- 25/2007

30.01.2008

Surface Control of nanoscale

materials through clean synthesis

and characterization

Dr. Surya Kant Tripathi

Deptt. Of Physics, Panjab University

Chandigarh-160014

SR/S0/HS-05/2005

24.04.2007

Investigations on the synthesis of

Nanocrystalline Calcium

Phosphates to prepare bone and

dental replacement materials and

drug delivery systems

Dr. S. Narayan Kalkura

Crystal Growth Centre, Anna University

Chennai-600025

SR/S2/LOP-10/2006

01.05.2007

Linear & nonlinear optical properties

of nano-size metal colloids in

polymers

Dr. K. Chandrasekharan

Deptt. Of Science & Humanities, National Institute

of Technology, Calicut-673601

SR/S1/PC-23/2006

27.04.2007

Spin Glass-like ordering and

exchange bias interactions in

magnetic nanoparticles synthesized

by chemical routes

Prof. N.S. Gajbhiye

Deptt. Of chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology-

Kanpur, Kanpur-208016

SR/S1/PC-33/2006

01.02.2008

Novel approach towards the

synthesis of nano-membranes for

the separation of gases: Structure

property relationships in

organisiloxane based polyurethanes

and imides

Dr. BSR Reddy

Industrial Chemical Laboratory

Central Leather Reseach Institute

Chennai-600020

List of Engineering Science Projects Sanctioned during year 2007-08

SR/S3/ME/13/2005-

SERC Engg

09.04.2007

Development of thermosetting

polymer/clay nanocomposites

Dr. Niranjan Karak

Deptt. Of Chemical Sciences, Tezpur University,

Tezpur-784028

SR/S3/MERC/93/2006

11.04.2007

Electro Kinetic Removal of Toxic

Contaminants from Soils Using

Reactive Nano-Particle

Dr. R.P. Tiwari

Deptt. Of Civil Engg.

Motilal Nehru National Instt. Of Technology

Allahabad-211004

SR/S3/ME/22/2006

19.04.2007

Studies on the synthesis and phase

transformation of FE Pt

nanoparticles for data storage

applications

Dr. Theertham Balaji

Cenre for Materials for Electronics Technology

Hyderabad-500051




SR/S3/ME/040/2006-

SERC Engg

18.05.2007

Development of Iron-based

Multicomponent & Nanodispersed

Bulk Metallic Glasses through

Mechanical Alloying for Industrial

Applications

Dr. S. Kumaran

Deptt. Of Metallurgical & Materials Engg.


Tiruchirapalli-620015

SR/S3/ME/046/2006

20.06.2007

Multi Scale modeling to study the

role of atomic scale defects in CNT

based nanocomposites

Dr. Baidurya Bhattacharya

Deptt. Of Civil Engg., Indian Institute of Technology-

Kharagpur, Kharagpur-721302

SR/S3/ME/049/2006-

SERC Engg

17.07.2007

Dispersion of nano-particle colloidal

suspensions for shaping processes

Dr. Bimal P. Singh

Colloids & Materials Chemistry Group

Regional Research Laboratory, Bhubaneswar-

751003

SR/S3/ME/024/2006

24.07.2007

Development and analysis of

supertough polyamide-6/singlewall

carbon nanotube nanocomposites

Prof. S.N. Maiti

Centre for Polymer Science & Engineering

Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi

New Delhi-110016

SR/S3/CE/049/2007

05.02.2008

General Strategies for Nanoparticles

of Controlled Size, Shape and

composition: Magnetite as a Case

Study for MRI Applications

Dr. Rajdip Bandopadhyaya

Deptt. Of Chemical Engineering

Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay

Mumbai-400076

List of Projects Sanctioned under Fast Track for Young Scientist Scheme for the year 2007-2008

SR/FTP/CS-

120/2006

23.05.2007

Microemulsion synthesis of Metal

(mainly Au and Ag) nanoparticles

and their nanosized oxides

Dr. Tokeer Ahmad

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Science,

Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi-110025

SR/FTP/CS-

144/2006

18.07.2007

Nanocomposite polymer

electrolytes for dye sensitized

solar cells

Dr.(Mrs.) Sutapa Ghosh

Inorganic & Physica, Chemistry Div., Indian Institute

of Chemical Technology

Hyderabad-500007

SR/FTP/CS-

110/2006

17.07.2007

Preparation of carbon

nanofibres by polymer blend

techniques

Dr. Mitali Saha

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology-

Kanpur, Kanpur-208016

SR/FTP/CS-

124/2006

17.07.2007

Preparation and photocatalytic

activity of titanate nanotubes

and nanofibres by hydrothermal

process

Dr. Mohammad Qamar

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology-

Delhi

New Delhi-110016

SR/FT/L-78/2006 Nanoparticle mediated targeted

siRNA delivery to cancer cell

lines

Dr. Utpal Bora

Deptt. Of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of

Technology-Guwahati, North Guwahati-781039

SR/FT/L-99/2006

19.07.2007

Investigation of exploitation of

facultative marine fungi and

iron nanoparticle for arsenic

bioremediation

Dr.(Ms.) Anjana K Vala, Deptt. Of Bioinformatics,

Bhavnagar University

Bhavnagar-364002

SR/FTP/ETA- 16/2007

01.08.2007

Design and synthesis of

mesoporous titanosilicate

supported gold nano particle useful

for mil oxidation reaction

Dr. Biswajit Chowdhury

Central Glass & Ceramic, Research Institute

Kolkata-700032

SR/FTP/PS- 52/2006

08.08.2007

SHG active self-assembled

Nano-architectures

Dr. Pritam Mukhopadhyay

School of Physical Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru




University New Delhi-110067

SR/FTP/CS- 28/2007

12.09.2007

Low temperature water-gas

shift reaction over Cunanoclusters

supported on ZnO/Al2O3 for

practical fuel cell application

Dr. Rajaram Bal

Characterization Laboratory, Catalyssis Conversion

Process Division Indian Institute of Petroleum

Dehradun-248005

SR/FTP/CS- 10/2007

20.09.2007

Amphiphilic dendrimer

templates for encapsulation of

mono/bimetallic nanoparticles

catalyst to carry out

industrial/pharmaceutically

valuable biophase organic

reaction

Dr. E. Murugan

Deptt. Of Physical Chemistry Madras University

Chennai-600025

SR/FTP/CS- 130/2006

20.09.2007

Synthesis of polymer.clay

nanocompositeds by emulsifier

free emulsion technique:

superabsorbency and biodegradable

study

Dr. Sarat Kumar Swain

Deptt. Of Chemistry, North Orissa University

Baripada-757003

SR/FTP/PS- 31/2006

20.09.2007

Study of Physical Behaviour of

ZnO as a host of Semiconducting

Nano Material

Dr. Sudipta Bandopadhyay

Deptt. Of Physics, Calcutta University

Kolkata-700009

SR/FTP/CS- 57/2006

24.09.2007

Physico-chemical studies of

metal and metal oxide nanoparticle

Dr.(Mrs.) Nupur Bahadur

Materials Characaterization

Division, National Physical Laboratory

New Delhi-110012

SR/FTP/ETA- 31/2007

18.10.2007

Development of microplasma

spraying technique for the

preparations of nanomaterials

for gas sensors applications

Mr. A. Chandra Bose

Deptt. Of Physics, National Institute of

Technology Tiruchirapalli-620015

SR/FTP/CS-50/2007

21.01.2008

Development of TiO2

nanocatalyst for environemntal

purification

Dr. Sunil Dutta Sharma

Liquid Crystal and Self, Assembled Monolayer

Section, National Physical Laboratory

New Delhi-110012

Projects Sanctioned during 2006-07 Scheme: Research & Development Support (SERC) Programme: Science & Engineering Research Council (Basic Sciences) & Research Fellowships

File No. Date Title PI & Address

SR/S1/PC-35/2005

26.04.2006

Studies of Nano-composites electroccatalyst

for ethanol oxidation reaction

Prof. I. Basumallick

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Visva Bharati

Santiniketan - 731235

SR/S1/PC-26/2005

10.05.2006

Development of Biocompatible Nanopolymer

composites using lignocellulosic fibres obtained by

steam explosion for biomedical application

Dr. L.A. Pothen

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Bishop Moore

College Kallumala, Mavelikkara - 690110

SR/S2/CMP-

02/2005

26.05.2006

Synthesis, characterization and applications of

Chalcogenide nano/Microstructures

Dr. N.K. Verma

School of Physics & Materials

Science Thapar Institute of Engineering

& Technology Deemed University Patiala




- 147004

SR/S1/PC-25/2005

06.06.2006

Synthesis of Bulk and Nano structuresd

mangnesium oxide using natural brine/bitten as

precursor: Characterization and comparative

studies on surface morphology and chemical

reactivity

Dr. Indrajit Mukhopadhyay

Salt & Marine Chemical Discipline

Central Salt & Marine Chemical

Research Institute Gijubhai Badheka

Marg Bhavnagar - 364002

SR/S2/CMP-

53/2003

24.08.2006

Developemnt of Tetragonal Ge-Nanocrystal by

Ionized Cluster beam deposition Technique: A New

Light Emitting Maerials for future Optoelectronics

Dr. Arabinda Nayak

Deptt. Of Physics, Presidency College

Kolkata - 700073

SR/S4/ES-171/2005

11.08.2006

Monsson Intensification and Neogene-Quaternary

Sivalik Biodiversity

Dr. Rajeev Patnaik

CAS in Geology, Punjab University

Chandigarh - 160014

SR/S1/PC-16/2005

26.09.2006

Carbo nanotube modified electrodes for enhanced

voltammetric sensing of organic pollutants

Dr. P. Manisankar

Deptt. Of Industrial Chemistry

Alagappa University, Karaikudi - 630003

SR/S1/PC-09/2005

26.09.2006

Investigation on mesoporous and nanostructured

ceramic oxides for gas sensors

Dr. I.S. Mulla

Physical Chemistry Division

National Chemical Laboratory

Homi Bhabha Road, Colaba

Pune - 411008

SR/S1/OC-24/2006

26.10.2006

Light harvesting and related phenomena

in nanoparticle-Dispersed dendritic macromolecules

containing photoresponsive groups

Dr. Sunny Kuriakose

Deptt. Of Chemistry, St. Thomas College

Arunapuram Palai - 686574

SR/S1/PC-28/2006

14.03.2007

Desighning of transition metal complexes as

efficient photosensitizers for nanocrystalline dye-

sensitized (AnO/TiO2) solar cells

Prof. Lal Bahadur

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Faculty of

Science Banaras Hindu University

Varanasi - 221005

SR/S1/PC-11/2006 Development of organic-inorganic hybrid

nano-coatings for high performance applications

Dr. S. Ananda Kumar

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Anna University

Chennai - 600025

Programme: Science & Engineering Research Council (Engineering Sciences)

SR/S3/ME/12/2005-

SERC-Engg.

25.04.2006

Development of Lead free Nano Ferroelectric and

Dielectric Materials by Mechanically activated

Synthesis

Prof. B.S. Murthy

IIT-Madras, Chennai - 600036

SR/S3/CE/10/2006

08.05.2006

Phase Equilibria & Interfacial Properties of Fluids &

their Mictures in Nanoporous Materuials

Dr. Jayant K. Singh

Deptt. Of Chemical Engg.

IIT-Kanpur Kanpur - 208016

SR/S3/CE/09/2006

22.05.2006

Mechanism of formation & control of size and

morphology of nanoparticles in liquid phase

Dr. Rajdip Bandopadhyaya

Deptt. Of Chemical Engg.


SR/S3/ME/26/2004-

SERC-Engg

23.08.2006

Green Nanocomposites from renewable resources:

Bipolymer silica hybrid materials

Dr. Vandana Singh

Allahabad University, Allahabad -

211002

SR/S3/ME/26/2004-

SERC-Engg

23.08.2006

Green Nanocomposites from renewable resources:

Bipolymer silica hybrid materials

Dr. Rashmi Sanghi

IIT-Kanpur, Kanpur - 208016

SR/S3/ME/29/2005-

SERC Engg

Electrical characterization of nanocomposites for

use as novel dielectrics

Dr. Nandini Gupta

Deptt. Of Electrical Engg.




15.09.2006 IIT-Kanpur, Kanpur - 208016

SR/S3/RFME/01/20

06-

SERC Engg

09.10.2006

Ramanna Fellowship on Detailed Investigation into

Ferroelectric Nanoceramics & Thin Films of

Lathanide doped Bismuth Titanate for Device

Applications

Dr. Ashish Garg

Deptt. Of Materials & Metallurgical Engg.


SR/S3/ME/024/2005

17.01.2007

Nano structured LTCC (Low Temperature Co-fired

Ceramic) composite tapes for modern high speed

communication integrated circuits

Dr. Manoj Raama Varma

Regional Research Laboratory

Thiruvananthapuram – 695019

List of Project sanctioned under Fast Track for young Scientist 2006-2007

SR/FTP/ETA

-05/2006

18.04.2006

Compact modeling and simulation of silicon nano

wire transistors

Dr. Santanu Mahapatra

Centre for Electronics Design

& Technology IISc Bangalore-560012

SR/FTP//PS-

41/2005

04.05.2006

Development of a UHV Flancing angle Deposition

for Growth of Nanostructure and In-Situ Studies of

Electrical, Magnetic and electromechanical

Properties

Dr. J.P. Singh

Deptt. Of Physics IIT-Delhi

New Delhi-110016

SR/FTP/CS-

84/2005

07.06.2006

Synthesis of organic and inorganic nanocomposites

for sensor applications

Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari

National Physical Laboratory New Delhi-

110012

SR/FT/L- 94/2005

15.06.2006

Studies on Marine Microorganisms for Synthesis of

Nanoparticles

Dr. Meenal Kawshik

Biological Sciences Group Birla Institute

of Technology & Science

Goa-403726

SR/FT/L- 92/2005

22.06.2006

Development of novel biodegradable

nanostructured vascular grafts

Dr. S. Swaminathan

Centre for Nanotechnology &

Advance Biomaterials, School

of Chemical & Biotechnology

SASTRA Thanjavur-613402

SR/FTP/CS-

71/2005

16.10.2006

Study of electronic structure and dynamics of

photo-induced excited state proton, electron

and energy transfer in hyderogen bonded

molecules of interest in organized assemblies

and nano-structured materials

Dr. Hirdyesh Mishra

Molecular Biophysics Unit

IISc Bangalore-560012

SR/FTP/PS-

51/2005

25.10.2006

Study of the mechanisms involved in enhancement

of electroluminescene properties of inorganic

nanophosphors

Dr. Nirmalaya Karar

Electronic Materials Division National

Physical Laboratory New Delhi-110012

SR/FTP/PS-

72/2005

10.11.2006

Development and Characterization of Nano-

Electrode Materials for Novel Complex Hybride Fuel

Cell

Dr. N. Mani

Deptt. Of Physics Anna University

Chennai-600025

SR/FTP/ETA -

27/2006

30.11.2006

Nano porous hydroxyapatite nanocomposite for

tissue engineering applications

Dr. M. Ashok

Deptt. Of Physics National Institute of

Technology

SR/FTP/ETA -

23/2006

01.12.2006

Novel Strategy of ultrasonic cavitation for the

generation of nanoemulsions and nanosuspensions

in pharmaceuticals preparations

Dr. M. Sivakumar

Deptt. Of Pharmeceutical

Engineering & Technology, School of

Engineering & Technology

Bharathidasan University Tiruchirapalli-

620024




SR/FTP/PS-

64/2005

12.12.2006

Development and characterization of

Nanocomposite Proton Exchange Membrane for

Fuel Cell Applications

Dr. R. Kannan

Deptt. Of Applied Science and

Humanities, Madras Instt. Of Technology

Anna University

Chennai-600044

SR/FTP/PS-

16/2006

12.12.2006

Development of bulk thin film and nanostructured

perovskite and oxide based materials for

thermochromic applications

Dr. N. Rama

Deptt. Of Physcis and Materials Science

Research Centre

IIT-Madras Chennai-600036

SR/FTP/ES-

02/2006

14.12.2006

Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterization of a

new group of Technological important fine

Nano size Phosphate materials

Dr. MJ. Mahesh

Deptt. Of Studies in Geology, Mysore

University Mysore-570006

SR/FTP/SC-

28/2006

15.02.2007

Enhancement of the sensitivity of peptide nanotube

based biosensors using gold nanoparticle

Dr. N. Sandhyarani

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Rajiv Gandhi

Centre for Biotechnology

Thiruvananthapuram-695014

SR/FTP/CS-

89/2006

05.03.2007

Chitosan templated novel nanocomposite silica

biomaterials

Dr. Rashmi Sanghi

IIT-Kanpur, Kanpur-208016

SR/FTP/CS-

57/2006

09.03.2007

Physico-chemical studies of metal and metal oxide

Nanoparticles

Dr.(Mrs.) Nupur Bahadur

Materials Characterization

Division National Physical Laboratory

New Delhi-110012

Projects Sanctioned during 2005-06 Scheme: Research & Development Support (SERC)

Programme: Science & Engineering Research Council (Basic Sciences)


SR/S1/PC-31/2004

12.04.2005

Design of nanosized Ceria based multicomponent

oxides for catalytic applications

Dr. B.M. Reddy

Inorganic & Physical Chemistry

Div. Indian Institute of Chemical

Technology Uppal Road, Tarnaka

Hyderabad - 500007

SR/S1/PC-08

13.04.2005

Size and shape controlled mono and bimetallic

(core-shell and alloyed) nanoparticles synthesis

for sensing organic and important biomolecules in

different organized media

Dr. Tarasankar Pal

Deptt. Of Chemistry IIT-Kharagpur

Kharagpur – 721302

SR/S2/HEP- 11/2004

29.08.2005

Plasma Behaviour at Nanodimensions Prof. V.K. Tripathi

Deptt. Of Physics, IIT-Delhi

Hauz Khas New Delhi - 110016

SR/S1/IC-27/2004

19.01.2006

Nanomaterial sensors for selectors anion and

cation recognition of environmental relevance

Prof. M. Kandaswamy

Deptt. Of Inorganic Chemistry

Madras University, Guindy Campus

Chennai – 600025

SR/S2/CMP- 42/2004

23.03.2006

EXAFS Study of Ruthenocuprates and Nano-

Sized Ceria Based Catalysts

Dr. P.R. Sarode

Deptt. Of Physics, Goa University,

Taleigo Plateau - 403206


SR/S3/CE/039/2005-

SERC-Engg

28.10.2005

Development of Smart Nano Materials for

Environment for Applications

Dr. S.R. Wate

Deptt. Of Environmental Impact &

Risk Assessment Division, National

Environmental, Engineering




Research Institute, Nagpur 440 030

SR/S3/CE/37/2005

17.02.2006

Design and Development of a Process for Nano-

Engineered Particles

Dr. U.V. Bhandarkar

Deptt. Of Mechanical Engg.

IIT-BombayPowai, Mumbai - 400076

SR/S3/CE/60/2005

17.02.2006

Patterned and Ordered Metal Nanoparticle Arrays-

Templates for Functional Nanoscale Architectures

Dr. S. Venugopal

Deptt. Of Chemical Engg., IISc

Bangalore – 560012

List of projects sanctioned under fast track for young scientists for the year 2005-06

SR/FTP/ETA -14/2004

03.05.2005

Development of polymer ceramic nanocomposite

solid electrolytes for electronic applications

Dr. S. Sankara Narayanan

Potty Centre for Materials for

Electronics Technology (CMET)

Thrissur-680771

SR/FTP/CS- 67/2001

06.07.2005

Natural Rubber/Organoclay Nanocomposites:

Preparation, characterization and Technical

Properties

Dr. Abi Santoshi Aprem

Hindustan Latex Limited

Thiruvananthapuram-695012

SR/FTP/CS- 44/2005

18.08.2005

Synthesis and Studies of Nanoparticles of Metal

Phoshides for application in Electronics

Dr. Narendra Singh


Technology (CMET) Pune-411008

SR/FTP/PS- 22/2004

16.08.2005

Preparation of Nanocrystallites/Rare Earth

Doped Sol-Gel Silica Glasses for Display

Applications

Dr. Gijo Bose

School of Pure & Applied

Physics Mahatma Gandhi University

Kottayam-686560

SR/FTP/PS- 32/2004

22.08.2005

Development of Nanocrystalline (Co, Fe)=Mn-

Zr-B Alloys with enhanced Soft Magnetic

Properties

Dr. A. Perumal

Deptt. Of Physics, Indian Institute of

Technology-Guwahati, Guwahati-

781039

SR/FTP/CS-27/2005

02.09.2005

A novel cost effective process for making Nano-

Materials useful for catalysis and application in

making electrode

Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Bhasin

Environmental Chemistry

Group Regional Research

Laboratory

Bhopal-462206

SR/FTP/CS-28/2005

07.09.2005

Regenerative Dye-sensitized

Photoelectriochemical Solar Cells based on

Nanocrystalline Wide Band-gap Semiconductor

Thin films Electrodes

Dr. Panjak Srivastava

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Instt. Of

Engg. & Technology, Chhatrapati

Shahu Ji Maharaj University

Kanpur-208024

SR/FTP/PS-12/2004

08.09.2005

Synthesis of Metal Oxide Nanomaterials in

Aqueous Foams

Dr. Bapurao Mayappa Bandgar

Nanoscience Group, Physical

Chemistry Div., National Chemical

Laboratory Pune-411008

SR/FTP/ETA-29/2005

25.11.2005

Production and Purification of magnetic

nanoparticles from bacterial cultures

Dr. Aditya Mittal

Deptt. Of Biochemical Engg.

& Biotechnology, Indian Institute of

Technology-New Delhi

New Delhi-110016



Projects Sanctioned during 2004-05 Scheme: Research & Development Support (SERC)

Programme: Science & Engineering Research Council (Basic Sciences)


SR/S9/Z-31/2004

14.10.2004

Development of a web network of

Nanoscience & Technology groups

in

India

Dr. Murali Sastry

Materials Chemistry Division,


Pune - 411008

SR/S2/CMP-41/2003

09.11.2004

Thin Film Solar Cells based on dye

sensitized nano-porous Ti02 and

Polymers

Dr. G.D. Sharma

Deptt. Of Physics, JNV University

Jodhpur – 342005

SR/S2/CMP- 52/2003

12.01.2005

Investigation of TiO2 and ZnOgratzel

Type dye sensitized Nanoporous

solar cells

Prof. S. Ramaswamy

Deptt. Of Nuclear Physics,

Madras University, Chennai -

600025

SR/S2/CMP-40/2003

23.03.2005

Polymer nanocomposites;

reinforcement and conductivity in

natural rubber through carbon

nanotubes

Dr. Rani Joseph

Deptt. Of Polymer Sciences &

Rubber Technology, Cochin

University of Science and

Technology, Cochin - 682022


SR/S3/CE/62/2003

07.07.2004

Development of fibres based on

Nylon-clay Nano Composit and

Studying the Structure and

Properties of those fibres

Dr. C. Ramesh


Pune - 411008



Annexure III

List of DBT approved projects in the area of nanoscience and technology 2006

-2007

SL Project Title Invigilators

NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY APPLICATION IN BIOLOGY

1. Nanofilters For Water Purification SRM Institute Of Science & Technology, Tamilnadu,

2.

Nanoparticle - Aided Delivery Of Bioactive

Molecules ( Delivery Of Molecules Of

Pharmaceutical Interest)

Institute Of Genomics And Integrative Biology Delhi, Delhi

3.

Targetted Nanoparticulate Drug Delivery

System Of Doxorubicin For Hepatic

Cancer Using Asialoglycoprotein Receptor

Mediated Approach

Institute Of Chemical Technology, Univ. Of Mumbai, Mumbai, Maharashtra,

4.

Process For The Proteinassisted Nano

Composite Synthesis Of Silica-Humic Acidbt

Toxins-Copper (Si-Ha-Bt-Cu) As

Bioencapsulated Pesticides

� Biological Sciences Division, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal,

� Central Fuel Research Institute, Jharkhand,

5.

Immunomagentic separation Based

nanotechnological Feats for detection of

Aflatoxin

SMT U.B. Bhagat Science College, Gujarat

6.

Potential role of nanoparticles in plant

Pathogen detection at early Stage and waste

management

University of Allahabad, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh

7.

Nano ZnO for smart packaging � Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (formerly regional research laboratory,

Bhubaneshwar), Bhubanasewar, Orissa,

� Indian Institute of ChemicalTechnology, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh

BASIC RESEARCH IN MODERN BIOLOGY

8.

Application Of Supercritical Fluid Extraction

Technology In The Production Of Lectin

Mediated Colon Targeting Micro/Nano-Particles

Institute Of Chemical Technology, University Of Mumbai, Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA

9. Investigations On Immobilized Enzyme Nano

Particles (Encp) For Novel Catalytic Applications

National Institute Of Interdisciplinary Science And Technology (Regional Research

Laboratory (CSIR), Thiruvanthapuram, Kerala,

10. Synthesis Of Biodegradable Nanocarriers For

Targeted Drug Delivery

Indian Institute Of Technology, Guwahati, Assam,

BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND ENVIRONMENT

11. Sustainable Green Nanocomposites From

Renewable Resources

Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

BIOTECHNOLOGY OF BIOFERTILISERS

12. Preparation, Characterization Of Nanoshells

And Their Use To Enhance Plant Growth

Madurai Kamraj University, , Madurai, Tamilnadu,

MEDICAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

13.

Development And Validation Of A Simple Test

Using Gold Nanoparticles/Quantum Dots And

Latex Beads For DNA Based Diagnosis Of M.

Tuberculosis

� National Institute Of Immunology, New Delhi

� National Institute Of Immunology, New Delhi

14.

Development Of Nanoparticular System For

Selective Receptor Specific Macrophage

Targeting

� All India Institute Of Medical Sciences, New Delhi

� Indian Institute Of Technology, Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi

� All India Institute Of Medical Sciences, New Delhi

15. Development Of Novel Carbon

Nanotube(Cnt)Reinforced Hydroxyapatite(Hap)

Indian Institute Of Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh



Polyether Ether Ketone (Peek)Nanocomposites

for Biomedical Applications

16.

Efficacy Of Epcam Conjugated Drug Loaded

Biodegradable Nanoparticles For Drug Therapy

In Retinoblastoma

� Indian Institute Of Technology, Chennai, Tamilnadu

� Institute Of Life Sciences, Bhubanasewar, Orissa

� Vision Research Foundation, Chennai, Tamilnadu

17.

Electrospun Nanofiber Scaffolds For Hepatic

Tissue Engineering

� Indian Institute Of Technology, Guwahati, Assam

� National Centre For Cell Science, Pune, Maharashtra

� Indian Institute Of Technology, Guwahati, Assam

RAPID – GENERAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

18.

Processing, Compatibilization And Targeting Of

Semiconductor Nanocrystals For Cancer

Diagnostics

Women's Christian College, Kochi, Kerala

19. Dynamic Light Scattering Studies Of

Biofunctionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, DELHI

20.

Targeted Therapy And Drug Resistance In

Multiple Myeloma: A Nanotechnology Based

Approach

MEDICAL COLLEGE, CALCUTTA, West Bengal

DBT2007-2008

BPPD-MICROBIAL AND INDUSTRIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

1. Development And Evaluation Of Nanoparticular Delivery System

For Peptide Drugs

Institute Of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra

MEDICAL BIOTECHNOLOGY – BIOENGINEERING

2. Development Of Biocomaptible Polymeric Nonwoven Nano-

Fibers Using Electrospinning For Efficient And Faster Wound

Healing

National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, Maharashtra

NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY APPLICATION IN BIOLOGY

3. Design And Characterization Of Nano-Crystalline Solid

Dispersions

National Institute Of Pharmaceutical Education And Research, Chandigarh,

4. Protein Engineering Of Selfassembly Systems For Applications

In Nanoscience And Nanotechnology

� ANNA UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI, TAMILNADU

� MADURAI KAMRAJ UNIVERSITY, MADURAI, TAMILNADU

� TUBERCULOSIS RESEARCH CENTRE, CHENNAI, TAMILNADU

5. Synthesis And Application Of Biopolymer / Biodegradable

Polymer Nanocomposites As Multifunctional Materials

Indian Institute Of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh

6. Fabrication Of Structured Nanobiomaterials Webs And

Writings Through Biomimetism With Emphasis On Self

Mineralizing Architectures For Tissue Engineering

National Metallurgical Laboratory, Bihar

Centre For Cellular And Molecular Biology, Andhra Pradesh

7. Studies On Ecotoxicology Of Engineered Nanoparticles In

Selected Marine Organisms

Sathyabama University, Chennai, Tamilnadu

8. Biological Synthesis Of Sophorolipids Using Yeast, Their

Application As An Antimicrobial Agent, And Their Usage As

Capping And Reducing Agents For The Synthesis Of Metal

Nanoparticles

National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, Maharashtra

9. Development Of Controlled Release Nanoparticulate

Formulations For Pesticides And Insecticides

Deptt. Of Chemistry, Delhi University, Dept. Of Chemistry, University Of Delhi

10. Entomotoxic Nanoparticle Development: Insecticidal

Efficacy And Biosafety Studies Metabolomics And

Machine Learning Tools

Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal,

11. Potential Of Nano Particle Encapsulated Sirna In

Treatment Of Cancer

Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh

12. Combination Products Of Polymer – Ceramic Nanocomposites

With Cells And Growth Factors For Bone Tissue Engineering

Applications

Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute For Medical Science & Technology,

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala



13. Nanotherapeutics With Lipidic Nanoparticles For The

Treatment Of Malaria

� Institute Of Chemical Technology, University Of Mumbai, Mumbai,

Maharashtra,

� Tata Institute Of Fundamental Research, Homi Bhabha Road, Mumbai,

Maharashtra

14. Development Of Folate - Conjugated Gadolinium

Metallodendrimers As Contrast Agents For Mri And Dendrimer –

Encapsulated Gold Nanoparticles As Optical Probes Toward

Cancer Diagnosis And Therapy

Loyola College, Chennai, Tamilnadu

15. Bioconjugation Of Nanomaterials And Their Applications In

Cancer Therapy

� University Of Kerala, India 695581

� Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute For Medical Science & Technology,

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala,

16. Drug Delivery And Drug Targeting Using Therapeutic

Nanoparticles

Patel Pharmaceutical Education And Research Development, Gujarat

17. Peptide Conjugated Hyperbranched / Dendritic Polymer

Nanocarriers For Targeted Multi Phased Drug Delivery

Rajiv Gandhi Centre For Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

18. Design And Development Of Nanoparticulate Targeted Drug

Delivery Systems

Jamia Hamdard University, Delhi, India

19. Cellular Interaction Of Nanoparticles; Effect On Epigenetics And

Thereby Its Role In Gene Expression: Implications From Drug

Delivery To Diagnosis

Jawaharlal Nehru Centre For Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore, Karnataka

20. Gold Nanoparticles In Drug Delivery And Diagnostics � University Of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal, Deptt. Of Biochemistry,

University Of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh

� Institute Of Haematology And Transfusion Medicine, Kolkata, West Bengal

21. Nanoscale Materials With Therapeutic Implications Indian Institute Of Technology, Guwahati, Assam

22. Conjugation Of Engineered Cytochrome P450 Enzyme Onto

Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes For Bioelectrochemical

Degradation Of Pesticides And Other Pollutants

� University Of Pune, Pune, Maharashtra

� Tata Institute Of Fundamental Research, Mumbai, Maharashtra

23. Development Of Biodegradable Dual Porous Polymer

Nanocomposite Scaffolds

Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala

24. Toxicological Studies Of Newly Developed Nanomaterials Of

Medical Importance Using In Vivo And In Vitro Model Systems

� Indian Institute Of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh



Annexure IV

List of Ongoing projects at Department of Information Technology (DIT)

SL No On going Projects Place

1. Synthesis of Nano Particles of Noble and Transition Metals for Application

in Electronic Packaging and Optoelectronics

C-MET, Pune

2. Large-scale Generation of Nanosized Metals / Metal oxides/ Metal

nitrides in a Transferred Arc Plasma Reactor

C-MET, Pune

3. Development of Nanocrystalline Silicon MEMS Pressure Sensor for

Vacuum and low pressure applications

Jadavpur University,

Calcutta

4. Development of Technology for quantum structures & their applications in

futuristic silicon based nanoelectronic devices

CEERI Pilani

5. Investigation of alignment & Characterization of Carbon Nanotubes for

targeted drug delivery

CSIO, Chandigarh

6. Generic Development of nanometrology for nanotechnology NPL, New Delhi

7. Nanoelectronics Centres- Joint Project IIT Bombay & IISc

Bangalore

8. Synthesis of nanocrystalline Sno2 powder and preparation of

nanostructured Sno2 thin films for gas sensing by ultrasonic spray

pyrolysis technique

9. Synthesis of Aligned Nanotubes of Carbon and related materials and

study of their Electron Emission Characteristics

IIT, Delhi

10. Modeling and Simulation of Nanoscale MOSFETs at Room Temperature

(RT) and of Classical MOSFETs at Liquid Nitrogen Temperature (LNT)

Panjab University,

Chandigarh

11. Nano-sized SiC based quantum structures on Si by Spin-on techniques IIT, Kanpur

12. Q-semiconductor-glass-nanocomposites for optical and energy (using

solar light) application

C-MET, Pune

13. Raman & Photoluminescence Investigation of Nanostructured Porous

silicon for sensing the presence of Chemical and Biological Species

Jamia Millia Islamia,

New Delhi

14. Characterization and Simulation of Nanodevices VNIT, Nagpur

15. Oxide Based Functional Thin Film Nanostructures for Spintronics and

quantum Informatics

IIT, Kanpur

16. Novel Nano-structured Ceramics for Gas Sensing Applications IIT, Kharagpur

17. Synthesis & Characterization of Functional Nanostructures for MEMS &

Optoelectronic Applications

IIT Roorkee

18. The Indian Nanoelectronics Users Programme(INUP) - Joint Project IIT Bombay & IISc

Bangalore

List of completed projects at Department of Information Technology (DIT) SL No Completed projects Place

1. Fabrication of new photolithography-less vertical organic thin film

transistors (OTFT)

IIT Kanpur

2. Investigations and Development of Nano Silver Oxide for Optical

Memories

IIT Madras

3. Development of Quantum-Well Infrared Photodetectors in wavelength

range 8-14 m using Si/SiGe Nanotechnology

IIT Kharagpur



Annexure V

Source: http://www.indempan.org/image/india-map.jpg

Bangalore UNIT - JNCASR UNIT - IISc CENTRE - TIFR CENTRE - IISc CENTRE for COMPUTATIONAL MATERIAL

SCIENCE - JNCASR Proposed institute for NT

Kanpur UNIT - IIT Kanpur CENTRE - IIT Kanpur

Hyderabad University of Hyderabad

Kolkata UNIT - IACS UNIT - SNBNCBS UNIT - SINP CENTRE - IACS CENTRE - SNBNCBS Proposed institute for NT

Mumbai CENTRE - IIT Bombay

Pune UNIT - NCL, Pune UNIT - University of Pune

Varanasi UNIT - BHU

Cochin CENTRE - Amrita Institute of Medical Science

Madurai Madurai University

Mohali Proposed institute for NT

Chennai UNIT - IIT Chennai CENTRE - IIT Chennai Anna University, Chennai

UNIT (CoE)

CENTRE (CoE)

Proposed Institutes For Nanotechnology

Centre for computational material science (CoE)

Other Centres established at various Institution

Delhi UNIT - IIT New Delhi

nanotechnology developments in india – a status report

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