India’s First Self-Powered Indoor Air Quality Monitor Launched at Thiruvananthapuram Airport

Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, has inaugurated Pavana Chitra, India’s first self-powered indoor air quality monitoring facility, located at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. This innovative facility is powered by indigenous indoor solar cells developed by the CSIR-NIIST, utilizing locally available materials.

Key Details of event

• During a subsequent event at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, the Minister emphasized the importance of biotechnology in India’s future industrial revolution and its potential for global leadership.

Inauguration of Pavana Chitra

• Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiled Pavana Chitra at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, marking a significant milestone in air quality monitoring.
• The facility is self-powered and uses indigenous solar cells developed by CSIR-NIIST.

Technology and Innovation

• The air quality monitor operates off-grid, highlighting India’s advancements in sustainable technology using locally sourced materials.
• This initiative reflects India’s commitment to utilizing homegrown solutions in addressing environmental challenges.

Focus on Biotechnology

• In a meeting with 300 SC/ST farmers and artisans, the Minister stressed that it is time for India to lead in the biotechnology sector.
• He mentioned the need for creative approaches to enhance the value of agricultural products cultivated by Indian farmers.

Preparation for the Next Industrial Revolution

• Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the upcoming industrial revolution in India, advocating for initiatives like the Bio E3 policy to propel the country forward.
• He underscored the importance of biotechnology, space, and agriculture as primary sectors for growth.

Cultural and Scientific Contributions

• At the event, the Minister released two books as part of the Science Heritage Project.
• He launched six community projects under the Tribal Heritage Project of BRIC-RGCB and honored award-winning farmers for their contributions.

Attendees

• The event featured the participation of various dignitaries, including former Union Minister of State for External Affairs Shri V. Maraleedharan and RGCB Director Chandrabhas Narayan, who presented a momento to the Union Minister.
• The collaborative efforts between BRIC-RGCB and the Swadeshi Science Movement-Kerala (SSM-K) aim to enhance scientific outreach and community development.

Recognition of Thiruvananthapuram

• Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to Thiruvananthapuram as the “science capital of India,” recognizing its role in scientific research and innovation.