Following the recent MoU signing with IIT Guwahati, Nagaland University has achieved another breakthrough in material science through its Chemistry department. This is the second notable achievement by the department, with the first being the creation of an eco-friendly Holi color.
The launch of ‘The Communicator,’ the university’s inaugural newspaper on Wednesday, further highlights its commitment to innovation.
In April, the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) conducted a comprehensive evaluation of all four Nagaland University campuses in Lumami, Kohima, Dimapur and Chumoukedima providing valuable feedback for ongoing improvement initiatives.
Professor Deepak Sinha, Director of the IQAC (Internal Quality Assurance Cell), expressed confidence in the university’s readiness for rigorous scrutiny and welcomes feedback as it strives for the coveted NAAC ‘A’ rating. NU is currently accredited Grade B by NAAC.
A major breakthrough for material science – Researchers at NU secure German Utility Model patent rights for eco-friendly Bromographene production
A research team led by Professor Dipak Sinha from the Department of Chemistry at Nagaland University, in collaboration with Professor Dinesh Rangappa from the Department of Applied Sciences (Nanotechnology) at Visvesvaraya Technological University, along with their Ph.D. student Suraj Kumar, has introduced an innovative and environmentally-friendly method for producing bromographene, a modified form of graphene. Their groundbreaking work has not only revolutionized bromographene synthesis but also earned them a German Utility Model Intellectual Property Right (IPR), securing their innovative process.
Speaking to Mokokchung Times about their research, Suraj Kumar explained that their aim was to modify the surface of graphene and functionalize it with bromine. However, the traditional method of preparing bromographene has been challenging, requiring harsh conditions such as high temperatures, high pressures, and the use of hazardous chemicals like liquid bromine. “These methods pose significant safety risks and are time-consuming and environmentally unfriendly,” Kumar added.
The research team from Nagaland University has developed a novel method using a safer brominating agent called tetrabutylammonium tribromide to convert reduced graphene oxide into bromographene. “This process takes only about 60 minutes compared to the traditional method, which used to take about 24-36 hours,” said Kumar. It is also said to be the fastest time reported so far and avoids the need for harsh conditions, making it much safer and more environmentally friendly.
The new method has also achieved one of the highest reported bromine contents, paving the way for further chemical modifications and advancements in electronics, composites, and other high-tech materials.
Speaking about the German Utility Model Intellectual Property Right (IPR), Kumar said, “This will secure our work.” He added that Utility Model IPR has a shorter process compared to normal IPR and will allow faster grants.
Kumar is also a recipient of the INSPIRE fellowship sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.
When asked about responses from the scientific community and industry stakeholders, Suraj said, “We are yet to publish our data in a journal, but the process is ongoing. We are working on it, so let’s hope for the best.”
It’s worth noting that graphene, a two-dimensional material, gained international acclaim in 2010 when Sir Andre Geim and Sir Konstantin Novoselov from the University of Manchester were awarded the Nobel Prize for its discovery.
Graphene is known for its extraordinary strength, superior electrical and thermal conductivity, and potential to revolutionize industries such as electronics, drug delivery, touch screens, paints, energy storage, and water purification. However, its practical applications have been limited due to poor solubility in common solvents—a challenge addressed by bromographene, which enhances graphene’s chemical reactivity and versatility.
This groundbreaking approach not only surpasses traditional methods in terms of speed and safety but also demonstrates the potential for sustainable chemical processes in industrial applications.
By focusing on creating safer and faster production methods, the researchers from Nagaland University are leading the way toward sustainable innovations in material science, promising a future where high-performance materials can be produced without compromising safety or the environment, an update from the University said.
NU & Elsevier collaborates to enhance research productivity
In another major push for the research community, Nagaland University, in collaboration with Elsevier, recently organized a webinar aimed at elevating research productivity among students, faculty, and scholars through effective utilization of the Scopus bibliographic database. Scopus is a multidisciplinary abstract and citation database with comprehensive coverage of scientific, technical, medical, and social sciences literature that is produced by the Elsevier Co.
The primary objective of the webinar, titled “Elevating Research Productivity through Scopus,” was to familiarize participants with the functionalities of Scopus, enabling them to conduct research more efficiently. Held on May 28, 2024, via Zoom, the event attracted 130 participants from diverse academic backgrounds.
The event was convened by Dr T Temjen (Deputy Librarian, Nagaland University) and coordinated by Chanlang Ki Bareh (Asst. Librarian, Nagaland University). Certification was provided based on feedback received.
The session covered various topics including navigating the Scopus interface, advanced search techniques, bibliometric analysis, and research planning and collaboration. Dr Nitin Ghoshal elaborated on additional features such as journal metric systems, saved searches, alert services, and journal selections.
NU delves into Naga History with author Mmhonlumo Kikon
The Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies and the Department of English, Nagaland University, Kohima Campus, organised a special talk by Mmhonlumo Kikon, author of “His Majesty’s Headhunters”, a book of narrative non-fiction that highlights the history of the Naga hills and in particular, the battle of Kohima.
The author discussed pertinent points about the book, and stated that his imperative to write the book was not to recall but “retell” and evoke history, and situate the present in the context of the past.
By drawing on the history of neighbouring states such as Manipur, Kikon brought light into the relation that Kohima historically shared in particular with Gambhir Singh and the role he played in the capture of Kohima in the 19th century.
He also spoke about how the Nagas challenged the mighty British, with just their weapons of sword and dao. By drawing on the historical relevance of places, Kikon also threw light on the Japanese incursions into present day Kohima and spoke about the similarity between AZ Phizo and Subhash Chandra Bose, in their anti-colonialism.
The discussion was met with a number of questions, remarks and feedback from historians, faculty and students.
Prof N Das, Head of Department, Department of English, in his welcome address stated that such a book is important for all scholars delving into Naga culture as it provides and comprehensive view of Naga history from an insider’s point of view.
The discussion was chaired by Dr Yanbeni Yanthan, Assistant Professor, Centre for Naga tribal Language Studies, who opined that given that the book was centered around the battle of Kohima, it gains more significance to have such a deliberation on the book in the town that carries its legacy.
NU now has its own Newspaper! Introducing ‘The Communicator’
In a first, the Department of Mass Communication at Nagaland University launched its inaugural fortnightly newspaper, ‘The Communicator,’ today, May 29, 2024, at the Mass Communication department at Lumami Campus, NU. The publication aims to extend its coverage to include the NU campuses in Kohima and SASRD, Medziphema. Limalenden Longkumer, Editor of Mokokchung Times, graced the occasion as the chief guest.
Assistant Professor Arjun Das highlighted that the creation of the newspaper was a collaborative effort between faculty members and students, emphasizing the significant contributions made by the students to its publication.
Longkumer commended the department for its dedication and successful publication of the newspaper, and suggested future collaboration between the Mokokchung Times and ‘The Communicator,’ envisioning a partnership that fosters mutual growth and exploration of new opportunities. While recommending an online version of the newspaper, he also suggested the department to register the publication with the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI), noting the convenience of online registration.
Underlining the pivotal role of Mass Communication students in shaping public opinion and building an informed citizenry, Longkumer stressed the importance of maintaining consistency and objectivity in newspaper publication. He expressed optimism that ‘The Communicator’ would serve as a vital conduit for disseminating information about Nagaland University’s activities to audiences beyond its confines. He also supported the department’s aspiration for continued growth and hoped that the University would render all possible help.
The event, chaired by Rongsenkumla, commenced with a welcoming address by Assistant Professor Arjun Das. Wangshimenla, Dean of Student Welfare, and Khumjongla Thongtsar, Executive Editor, also delivered brief speeches. The program featured a special musical performance by Temsukala, followed by a vote of thanks from Dr Shivajoyiti Das Baruh, Assistant Professor in the Department of Mass Communication.
One more thing to say is that an online business administration training course is designed for students to be able to easily proceed to bachelor’s degree programs. The Ninety credit education meets the other bachelor diploma requirements and once you earn your own associate of arts in BA online, you’ll have access to up to date technologies in such a field. Some reasons why students want to be able to get their associate degree in business is because they can be interested in this area and want to have the general knowledge necessary prior to jumping right bachelor diploma program. Thx for the tips you provide with your blog.
I have seen that today, more and more people are now being attracted to digital cameras and the area of images. However, like a photographer, you should first invest so much of your time deciding the model of camera to buy in addition to moving store to store just so you might buy the most economical camera of the brand you have decided to choose. But it does not end now there. You also have take into consideration whether you should obtain a digital video camera extended warranty. Thanks a bunch for the good recommendations I gained from your site.
Thanks for discussing your ideas. I might also like to state that video games have been ever before evolving. Technology advances and innovative developments have made it simpler to create reasonable and enjoyable games. These types of entertainment games were not that sensible when the real concept was first of all being tried out. Just like other kinds of technological know-how, video games also have had to develop by many decades. This itself is testimony towards the fast development of video games.
I have observed that in the world nowadays, video games include the latest trend with children of all ages. There are occassions when it may be out of the question to drag your son or daughter away from the video games. If you want the very best of both worlds, there are various educational activities for kids. Thanks for your post.
There is clearly a lot to realize about this. I think you made various good points in features also.
This post has really cleared things up for me.