A study quoted by the World Health Organization states that over 65 million people across the globe require a wheelchair for mobility, but higher estimates suggest that only 9.75 million people (most of whom are in higher-income countries) have access to wheelchairs, while an even fewer number have access to appropriate kinds of wheelchairs.&nbsp;

Those that require a wheelchair also face challenges such as lack of awareness, high costs and even low availability of quality products. But the hardships don’t end there, as being seated on a wheelchair for long hours also causes secondary health issues such as poor blood circulation, spasms and pressure sores.&nbsp;

A collaborative effort between IIT Madras and their industry partners aims to help the differently-abled in overcoming most of these challenges. The IIT Madras, in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched what they call India’s first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair.’ It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner.

The standing wheelchair called ‘Arise’ was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT-M, headed by Prof Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.&nbsp;

The project initially began as a student project and later its commercialisation was made possible through support from Wellcome, UK, through an ‘Affordable Healthcare in India Award', which brought together the research and manufacturing partners. A 16-member team had been working on developing various prototypes over the last four years.

The three-wheeled chair that costs Rs 15,000 comes is four different sizes depending on the body type and can be customised based on posture, while also being mass manufactured. Arise was designed in such a way that the user can actuate it from the sitting position to the standing position and vice versa using the power of the user’s arms. Besides knee pads, front and back support, adjustable footrests, Arise has an interlocking mechanism, which ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state if the knee block is not in position.

Speaking at the launch event, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment said, “I have seen a lot of scientific developments in India and abroad over the last 5-6 years, but I haven’t seen such a good standing wheelchair in any country. When such wheelchairs are made in India, why is there a need to import?”

Speaking to WION Dr Sujatha Srinivasan, head of the R2D2 lab said, “The wheelchair has been designed and built in such a way that that effort required for the user to stand using it is equal to or less than that of moving the wheelchair, as we have used a linkage with spring balancing system. We have extensively tested it with over 50 users form various institutions such as Christian Medical College Vellore, Mobility India and St Johns Hospitals”.

Statistics quoted by the WHO say that only one in ten physically challenged people have access to assistive technology, but when they are provided the necessary aid, it could improve their access to education, employment and social participation.&nbsp;

“Currently we have the capability of manufacturing 300-400 wheelchairs per month and our vision is to scale this up to 10,000 per month. We plan to distribute it via dealers who specialise in assistive technology and prosthesis. Our model costs Rs 15,000 while imported standing wheelchairs are priced at over a lakh and beyond. Since most of the parts used by us are bicycle parts, it would be easy to get them replaced when the need arises”, Sashi Kumar, MD of Phoenix medical Systems told WION.&nbsp;

At the event, a few wheelchairs were donated to differently-abled persons who had spinal injuries. The users were delighted on being able to rise up independently for the first time, while the National Anthem was being played.&nbsp;

A study quoted by the World Health Organization states that over 65 million people across the globe require a wheelchair for mobility, but higher estimates suggest that only 9.

A study quoted by the World Health Organization states that over 65 million people across the globe require a wheelchair for mobility, but higher estimates suggest that only 9.75 million people (most of whom are in higher-income countries) have access to wheelchairs, while an even fewer number have access to appropriate kinds of wheelchairs. Those that require a wheelchair also face challenges such as lack of awareness, high costs and even low availability of quality products. But the hardships don’t end there, as being seated on a wheelchair for long hours also causes secondary health issues such as poor blood circulation, spasms and pressure sores. A collaborative effort between IIT Madras and their industry partners aims to help the differently-abled in overcoming most of these challenges. The IIT Madras, in collaboration with Phoenix Medical Systems has launched what they call India’s first indigenously-designed ‘Standing Wheelchair.’ It enables a differently-abled person requiring a wheelchair to shift from sitting to standing position, and vice versa, independently and in a controlled manner. The standing wheelchair called ‘Arise’ was designed and developed by the TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) at IIT-M, headed by Prof Sujatha Srinivasan in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The project initially began as a student project and later its commercialisation was made possible through support from Wellcome, UK, through an ‘Affordable Healthcare in India Award', which brought together the research and manufacturing partners. A 16-member team had been working on developing various prototypes over the last four years. The three-wheeled chair that costs Rs 15,000 comes is four different sizes depending on the body type and can be customised based on posture, while also being mass manufactured. Arise was designed in such a way that the user can actuate it from the sitting position to the standing position and vice versa using the power of the user’s arms. Besides knee pads, front and back support, adjustable footrests, Arise has an interlocking mechanism, which ensures that the wheelchair remains in a locked state if the knee block is not in position. Speaking at the launch event, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment said, “I have seen a lot of scientific developments in India and abroad over the last 5-6 years, but I haven’t seen such a good standing wheelchair in any country. When such wheelchairs are made in India, why is there a need to import?” Speaking to WION Dr Sujatha Srinivasan, head of the R2D2 lab said, “The wheelchair has been designed and built in such a way that that effort required for the user to stand using it is equal to or less than that of moving the wheelchair, as we have used a linkage with spring balancing system. We have extensively tested it with over 50 users form various institutions such as Christian Medical College Vellore, Mobility India and St Johns Hospitals”. Statistics quoted by the WHO say that only one in ten physically challenged people have access to assistive technology, but when they are provided the necessary aid, it could improve their access to education, employment and social participation. “Currently we have the capability of manufacturing 300-400 wheelchairs per month and our vision is to scale this up to 10,000 per month. We plan to distribute it via dealers who specialise in assistive technology and prosthesis. Our model costs Rs 15,000 while imported standing wheelchairs are priced at over a lakh and beyond. Since most of the parts used by us are bicycle parts, it would be easy to get them replaced when the need arises”, Sashi Kumar, MD of Phoenix medical Systems told WION. At the event, a few wheelchairs were donated to differently-abled persons who had spinal injuries. The users were delighted on being able to rise up independently for the first time, while the National Anthem was being played.

‘Arise’: IIT Madras’ affordable standing wheelchair to be commercially available

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the world has great expectations from India, and his government will lead the country to a path of 'greatness' where it will be beneficial to the entire world.

Addressing the 56th annual convocation of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras PM said "I am always delighted to be back in Chennai. After 2019 elections, it is my first visit to the state. I am really thankful to all of you for such a warm welcome."

"During my US tour I saw the world has great expectations from India, which is growing... we will certainly ensure the welfare of India, and swiftly, but we will make it such a great nation that it will be useful for the world," he said.

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Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 56th convocation of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami &amp; Dy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also present. <a href="https://t.co/unSeKofAIr">pic.twitter.com/unSeKofAIr</a>
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"During my visit to the United States of America, when I said something in Tamil and I told the world that Tamil is one of the world's oldest languages, so even today, the language resonates across the United States," he added.

On Sunday, the PM tweeted seeking ideas for the speech he will deliver at the convocation ceremony.

Appreciating the winners of the Singapore-India Hackathon 2019 PM said that I congratulate the winners of the Hackathon and each and every young friend assembled here. Your willingness to confront challenges &amp; find workable solutions is of much great value than just winning a challenge.

Describing the hackathon a great mix of youth power and innovation, he said it brings together the finest young minds finding long-lasting solutions to the problems India faces.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the world has great expectations from India, and his government will lead the country to a path of 'greatness' where it will be beneficial to the entire world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the world has great expectations from India, and his government will lead the country to a path of 'greatness' where it will be beneficial to the entire world. Addressing the 56th annual convocation of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras PM said "I am always delighted to be back in Chennai. After 2019 elections, it is my first visit to the state. I am really thankful to all of you for such a warm welcome." "During my US tour I saw the world has great expectations from India, which is growing... we will certainly ensure the welfare of India, and swiftly, but we will make it such a great nation that it will be useful for the world," he said. Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 56th convocation of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami & Dy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also present. pic.twitter.com/unSeKofAIr — ANI (@ANI) September 30, 2019 × #WATCH "My young friends here solved many problems today. I specially like the solution about camera to detect who is paying attention. I will talk to my Speaker in the Parliament. I am sure it will be very useful to Parliament", says PM at Singapore-India Hackathon at IIT-Madras pic.twitter.com/mheXdLaPGo — ANI (@ANI) September 30, 2019 × "During my visit to the United States of America, when I said something in Tamil and I told the world that Tamil is one of the world's oldest languages, so even today, the language resonates across the United States," he added. On Sunday, the PM tweeted seeking ideas for the speech he will deliver at the convocation ceremony. Appreciating the winners of the Singapore-India Hackathon 2019 PM said that I congratulate the winners of the Hackathon and each and every young friend assembled here. Your willingness to confront challenges & find workable solutions is of much great value than just winning a challenge. Describing the hackathon a great mix of youth power and innovation, he said it brings together the finest young minds finding long-lasting solutions to the problems India faces.

World has great expectations from India, Tamil still resonates in the US: PM Modi at IIT Madras

The Rovers can climb stairs, negotiates slopes and small rocks and also can perform On-board experiments

IIT Madras students built rovers that can tackle Mars-like terrain

The grand finale of the second edition of the Carbon Zero Challenge at the Indian Institute of Technology (Madras) witnessed 24 teams display their prototypes that were designed and developed to help overcome challenges in the fields of agri-tech, environment, energy, social and water. The finalists were shortlisted from around 1,000 teams that had applied from 25 states across India.&nbsp;

Launched in June 2018, the contest was open to students, young entrepreneurs and start-ups. A screening committee comprising of domain experts and IIT alumni evaluated the initial set of applications and shortlisted 84 teams that were interviewed and scrutinized based on their project ideas and pitch.&nbsp;

Speaking at the event, Professor Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director IIT Madras said, “this year the event is pan-India, earlier it was just a handful of states. There is nationwide support for bright ideas. IIT Madras, with the help from alumni and domain experts, shortlist the proposals, offer financial support and mentoring by domain experts. Winners will get further support and mentoring and will be incubated. Winners of last year have done really well, some of them have formed their own companies.”

WION takes a look at some of the unique projects:

Indriyam bilogics Pvt Ltd, Thiruvananthapuram

A fully automated machine that is compact and portable, ingests used cooking oil and converts it to bio-diesel. Bio-diesel can be added to diesel and could marginally help reduce the consumption of diesel. The product is meant for small businesses that wish to turn raw material into a value added product.

Water chakra, IIT Madras&nbsp;

Urine is the main source of nutrients in a waste water treatment plant and when processed in this machine, an eco-fertilizer struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate), ammonia solution (used in cleaning agents) and 90 per cent of water (that can be used to water plants) can be derived from urine.&nbsp;

Wricks, Techno India NJR institute of technology, Udaipur&nbsp;

Utilises a modified version of existing processes to blend plastic waste, marble waste, demolition waste and fabricate water-resistant, light-weight and sound proof bricks that are stronger than normal clay bricks. This method is said to be many times faster than the conventional method of baking bricks in a kiln.&nbsp;

Magma, KCG College of Technology, Chennai

An electrically powered remote controlled alternative to tractors that can be used for a variety of agricultural applications (by adding attachments, accessories) ranging from seed dispersal, de-weeding, harvesting etc. Can be remotely controlled upto a range of 1km and it can be extended as desired.

Ingotron, start-up&nbsp;

An electric kick-scooter that can travel upto 20kms on a single charge of two hours. With a top speed of 22kmph, it aims to make short-distance travel easier. The scooter is also foldable and can be carried easily. The scooter can be linked with a mobile app to explore more features.

Presiding over the event was Abhay Jere, Chief Innovation Officer of Ministry of Human Resource Development, he expressed optimism and said, “There is a huge opportunity for MHRD to collaborate with Carbon Zero Challenge. Usually, we are good at ideation and prototyping but fail at last mile. Our prototypes should be made market ready and pitched with big industries.”

Elaborating on the support provided to the competing teams, Professor Indumathi Nambi, coordinator of the Carbon Zero Challenge said, “During our annual cultural event, Shaastra, the teams came face to face with the mentors and 15 lectures were held. Later they also had webinars.”&nbsp;

But winning the contest is not all, the teams have a long way to go and make it big. Winning teams are moved to the start-up incubators and provided the necessary funding and support for a limited period of time.&nbsp;

The following projects were adjudged top 3 at the finale:

Pristine Energia, IIT Madras

A process to produce activated carbon from coconut shells.

Clean Electric, IIT-BHU

Electric powertrain solutions for e-commerce logistics by a startup.

Elicius Energy&nbsp;

A tubular PEM fuel cell that is open-cathode and air-breathing developed by an IIT-Madras incubated start-up.&nbsp;

The grand finale of the second edition of the Carbon Zero Challenge at the Indian Institute of Technology (Madras) witnessed 24 teams display their prototypes that were designed and developed to help overcome challenges in the fields of agri-tech, environment, energy, social and water.

The grand finale of the second edition of the Carbon Zero Challenge at the Indian Institute of Technology (Madras) witnessed 24 teams display their prototypes that were designed and developed to help overcome challenges in the fields of agri-tech, environment, energy, social and water. The finalists were shortlisted from around 1,000 teams that had applied from 25 states across India. Launched in June 2018, the contest was open to students, young entrepreneurs and start-ups. A screening committee comprising of domain experts and IIT alumni evaluated the initial set of applications and shortlisted 84 teams that were interviewed and scrutinized based on their project ideas and pitch. Speaking at the event, Professor Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director IIT Madras said, “this year the event is pan-India, earlier it was just a handful of states. There is nationwide support for bright ideas. IIT Madras, with the help from alumni and domain experts, shortlist the proposals, offer financial support and mentoring by domain experts. Winners will get further support and mentoring and will be incubated. Winners of last year have done really well, some of them have formed their own companies.” WION takes a look at some of the unique projects: Indriyam bilogics Pvt Ltd, Thiruvananthapuram A fully automated machine that is compact and portable, ingests used cooking oil and converts it to bio-diesel. Bio-diesel can be added to diesel and could marginally help reduce the consumption of diesel. The product is meant for small businesses that wish to turn raw material into a value added product. Water chakra, IIT Madras Urine is the main source of nutrients in a waste water treatment plant and when processed in this machine, an eco-fertilizer struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate), ammonia solution (used in cleaning agents) and 90 per cent of water (that can be used to water plants) can be derived from urine. Wricks, Techno India NJR institute of technology, Udaipur Utilises a modified version of existing processes to blend plastic waste, marble waste, demolition waste and fabricate water-resistant, light-weight and sound proof bricks that are stronger than normal clay bricks. This method is said to be many times faster than the conventional method of baking bricks in a kiln. Magma, KCG College of Technology, Chennai An electrically powered remote controlled alternative to tractors that can be used for a variety of agricultural applications (by adding attachments, accessories) ranging from seed dispersal, de-weeding, harvesting etc. Can be remotely controlled upto a range of 1km and it can be extended as desired. Ingotron, start-up An electric kick-scooter that can travel upto 20kms on a single charge of two hours. With a top speed of 22kmph, it aims to make short-distance travel easier. The scooter is also foldable and can be carried easily. The scooter can be linked with a mobile app to explore more features. Presiding over the event was Abhay Jere, Chief Innovation Officer of Ministry of Human Resource Development, he expressed optimism and said, “There is a huge opportunity for MHRD to collaborate with Carbon Zero Challenge. Usually, we are good at ideation and prototyping but fail at last mile. Our prototypes should be made market ready and pitched with big industries.” Elaborating on the support provided to the competing teams, Professor Indumathi Nambi, coordinator of the Carbon Zero Challenge said, “During our annual cultural event, Shaastra, the teams came face to face with the mentors and 15 lectures were held. Later they also had webinars.” But winning the contest is not all, the teams have a long way to go and make it big. Winning teams are moved to the start-up incubators and provided the necessary funding and support for a limited period of time. The following projects were adjudged top 3 at the finale: Pristine Energia, IIT Madras A process to produce activated carbon from coconut shells. Clean Electric, IIT-BHU Electric powertrain solutions for e-commerce logistics by a startup. Elicius Energy A tubular PEM fuel cell that is open-cathode and air-breathing developed by an IIT-Madras incubated start-up.

IIT’s Carbon Zero Challenge churns out innovative solutions to India’s energy, environmental challenges

&nbsp;IIT-Madras has announced a collaboration with the University of Technology-Sydney, a tie-up that aims to bring international expertise together to address the need of the urban poor--quality, cheaper and durable housing.

The partnership includes a broad range of research collaborations, a series of joint PhD supervisions, IIT-Madras said in a statement.

A roundtable was conducted Thursday at IIT-M campus as part of the project 'Enabling prefabricated construction to improve mass housing delivery in India and Australia', which brought together key stakeholders from industry, academia and governments of India and Australia.

The project is funded by Australia-India Council of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia, the statement said.

University of Technology-Sydney professor Sidney Newton said "Unprecedented demand for low-cost housing in India is driving fundamental change in how the construction industry is managed.

This event will prove pivotal in directing and enabling new innovations," he added.

IIT-Madras has announced a collaboration with the University of Technology-Sydney, a tie-up that aims to bring international expertise together to address the need of the urban poor--quality, cheaper and durable housing.

IIT-Madras has announced a collaboration with the University of Technology-Sydney, a tie-up that aims to bring international expertise together to address the need of the urban poor--quality, cheaper and durable housing. The partnership includes a broad range of research collaborations, a series of joint PhD supervisions, IIT-Madras said in a statement. A roundtable was conducted Thursday at IIT-M campus as part of the project 'Enabling prefabricated construction to improve mass housing delivery in India and Australia', which brought together key stakeholders from industry, academia and governments of India and Australia. The project is funded by Australia-India Council of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia, the statement said. University of Technology-Sydney professor Sidney Newton said "Unprecedented demand for low-cost housing in India is driving fundamental change in how the construction industry is managed. This event will prove pivotal in directing and enabling new innovations," he added.

IIT-Madras-Sydney varsity tie-up to address issue of cheaper Housing

Over 100 tech start-ups and innovators showcased their wide-ranging products and services to investors, industries and aspiring entrepreneurs at the first edition of Demo Day held at the IIT-Madras Research Park campus.&nbsp;

The innovations were aimed at enhancing existing technologies and developing better versions of existing ones in various fields such as manufacturing, electric vehicles, internet of things, agriculture technology, solar energy, healthcare, biotechnology and data sciences.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION Priya Mohan, a Senior member of the IIT Incubation cell team said, "incubation cell is open to all body. This is a technology business incubator that supports entrepreneurs who are looking to kickstart their ventures. We offer support services like office space, seed funding, mentoring, training and networking opportunities and connect to industry and potential collaborators.”&nbsp;

Any startup that wishes to scale up and obtain funding, can apply on the Incubation Cell Portal, after which screening and evaluation are done. Then the startup is provided seed funding from Rs. 5lakh to 50lakhs based on the requirements, she added.&nbsp;

We take you through some of the iconic exhibits and projects at the event:

1. Planys Technologies - Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Can access a depth of 120m and also provide live camera feed to the control centre via a tether that provides power supply. The team has developed 6 vehicles to suit different requirements. This ROV was used to augment the efforts of the Indian Navy during the rescue operations in the Meghalaya Mine tragedy.&nbsp;

2. Neomotion Assistive - Customizable Wheelchair cum Scooter for the Physically challenged. (Prototype under testing) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Provides up to 30Kms range on a single charge with a top speed of 25Kmph. Meant to be used on typical Indian road conditions. The scooter can easily be detached from the wheelchair, hence allowing it to be used indoors as well.&nbsp;

3.Agnikul Cosmos - Affordable Rocket launches to Low Earth Orbit with payloads unto 100Kgs (Under technology demonstration and development stage) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Uses certain 3-d Printed components for Engine parts. To be powered by Kerosene and liquid oxygen. 3-Stage rocket under development.&nbsp;

4. Merkel Haptic Systems - Mixed and virtual reality healthcare training simulators with Haptic feedback (Product developed and available). It recreates scenarios of medical emergencies and allows medical professionals and support staff to learn/practice complicated procedures.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION about the importance of such events, Ex-CEO of Cognizant said, “we want investors to chase ideas and young minds that are raring to go, rather than founders chasing investments. We have achieved that here in this Chennai demo day.”

Other projects that are under various phases of development and testing include, a device that could convert air into water and ice using a single compressor, Carbon Fibre 3-D printing solutions, Robots to inspect the integrity of industrial pipelines and drones that could enable delivery of goods weighing less than 6Kg.&nbsp;

Over 100 tech start-ups and innovators showcased their wide-ranging products and services to investors, industries and aspiring entrepreneurs at the first edition of Demo Day held at the IIT-Madras Research Park campus.

Over 100 tech start-ups and innovators showcased their wide-ranging products and services to investors, industries and aspiring entrepreneurs at the first edition of Demo Day held at the IIT-Madras Research Park campus. The innovations were aimed at enhancing existing technologies and developing better versions of existing ones in various fields such as manufacturing, electric vehicles, internet of things, agriculture technology, solar energy, healthcare, biotechnology and data sciences. Speaking to WION Priya Mohan, a Senior member of the IIT Incubation cell team said, "incubation cell is open to all body. This is a technology business incubator that supports entrepreneurs who are looking to kickstart their ventures. We offer support services like office space, seed funding, mentoring, training and networking opportunities and connect to industry and potential collaborators.” Any startup that wishes to scale up and obtain funding, can apply on the Incubation Cell Portal, after which screening and evaluation are done. Then the startup is provided seed funding from Rs. 5lakh to 50lakhs based on the requirements, she added. We take you through some of the iconic exhibits and projects at the event: 1. Planys Technologies - Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Can access a depth of 120m and also provide live camera feed to the control centre via a tether that provides power supply. The team has developed 6 vehicles to suit different requirements. This ROV was used to augment the efforts of the Indian Navy during the rescue operations in the Meghalaya Mine tragedy. 2. Neomotion Assistive - Customizable Wheelchair cum Scooter for the Physically challenged. (Prototype under testing) Provides up to 30Kms range on a single charge with a top speed of 25Kmph. Meant to be used on typical Indian road conditions. The scooter can easily be detached from the wheelchair, hence allowing it to be used indoors as well. 3.Agnikul Cosmos - Affordable Rocket launches to Low Earth Orbit with payloads unto 100Kgs (Under technology demonstration and development stage) Uses certain 3-d Printed components for Engine parts. To be powered by Kerosene and liquid oxygen. 3-Stage rocket under development. 4. Merkel Haptic Systems - Mixed and virtual reality healthcare training simulators with Haptic feedback (Product developed and available). It recreates scenarios of medical emergencies and allows medical professionals and support staff to learn/practice complicated procedures. Speaking to WION about the importance of such events, Ex-CEO of Cognizant said, “we want investors to chase ideas and young minds that are raring to go, rather than founders chasing investments. We have achieved that here in this Chennai demo day.” Other projects that are under various phases of development and testing include, a device that could convert air into water and ice using a single compressor, Carbon Fibre 3-D printing solutions, Robots to inspect the integrity of industrial pipelines and drones that could enable delivery of goods weighing less than 6Kg.

Tech start-ups galore at IIT Madras research park demo day

Students exhibit projects, build robots, fly drones at IIT Madras's tech fest

A group of five researchers from IIT Madras has initiated a project to protect an island, Vaan, which is 12 km off the Tuticorin coast in Tamil Nadu.

The island is one of the 21 uninhabited islands in the Gulf of Mannar. It has shrunk from 16 hectares in 1986 to 1.5 hectares in 2015.

The institute placed 9,000 small units of &#39;reinforced concrete structure with holes&#39; into the sea, about 250m off the island shoreline, according to a report in The Indian Express.

The head of &nbsp;Department of Ocean Engineering at IIT Madras, Professor S A Sannasiraj said similar concrete structures have already been used in other parts of the world to revive corals. But It was the first time that the project is being used to safeguard an island.&nbsp;

&quot;Even though these islands are uninhabited, they perform a crucial role in dissipating wave energy before it reaches the coast of Tamil Nadu,&quot; said Sannasiraj.

Sannasiraj has been working with the Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute since 2014. The team had been devising and building small models which were studied in IIT.&nbsp;

The first layer of the artificial reef was completed in September 2015 at the cost of Rs 12 crore.&nbsp;

The second phase is expected to come soon.&nbsp;

The professor also hinted on expanding the project to another island, Kosiwari as the island is also getting eroded.&nbsp;

A group of five researches from IIT Madras have initiated a project to protect an island, VAAN, which is 12 km off the Tuticorin coast in Tamil Nadu.

A group of five researchers from IIT Madras has initiated a project to protect an island, Vaan, which is 12 km off the Tuticorin coast in Tamil Nadu. The island is one of the 21 uninhabited islands in the Gulf of Mannar. It has shrunk from 16 hectares in 1986 to 1.5 hectares in 2015. The institute placed 9,000 small units of 'reinforced concrete structure with holes' into the sea, about 250m off the island shoreline, according to a report in The Indian Express. The head of Department of Ocean Engineering at IIT Madras, Professor S A Sannasiraj said similar concrete structures have already been used in other parts of the world to revive corals. But It was the first time that the project is being used to safeguard an island. "Even though these islands are uninhabited, they perform a crucial role in dissipating wave energy before it reaches the coast of Tamil Nadu," said Sannasiraj. Sannasiraj has been working with the Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute since 2014. The team had been devising and building small models which were studied in IIT. The first layer of the artificial reef was completed in September 2015 at the cost of Rs 12 crore. The second phase is expected to come soon. The professor also hinted on expanding the project to another island, Kosiwari as the island is also getting eroded.

IIT Madras team helps grow island in Gulf of Mannar

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