KVRSS announces plans for a state-of-the-art Science Centre complex as a hub for learning and exploration
Hyderabad: The Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society (KVRSS) marked its 25th Annual Day on Friday at the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, with distinguished speakers, award presentations, and renewed commitments to nurturing young scientific talent across India.
Prof. G. Madhavi Latha, Department of Civil Engineering, IISc Bengaluru, and the primary geotechnical consultant to the world’s highest railway bridge across the Chenab in Jammu, delivered the 25th Annual Memorial Oration on “The Himalayan Task of Connecting Jammu and Srinagar by Train.”
Reflecting on her 17-year journey with the project, she said: “As the lead geotechnical consultant for the Chenab bridge, I learnt more from the project than I gave to it. The Himalayan geology presented constant surprises — fractured rocks, cavities, and shear zones. Flexibility in design was critical; we had to go beyond textbooks and codes, often developing and testing solutions on the spot.”
Her simplicity, dedication, and insights into slope stabilisation and foundation design in difficult Himalayan terrain earned her a standing ovation.
Dr. Vinay K. Nandicoori, Director, CSIR-CCMB, a renowned molecular biologist recognised for pioneering research on tuberculosis pathogenesis, was the Chief Guest. He urged students to embrace science: “Think about biology and science as a career opportunity. We need talented people pursuing science. There is so much fun in studying science. Knowledge is the pillar of everything—invest in building knowledge.”
Dr. Ratna, Secretary, KVRSS, shared: “From a humble beginning, today we are a national platform. Over 25 years, KVRSS has impacted 75,000 students and 250 research institutions. We began when interest in science was dwindling and labs in schools were in deplorable conditions. Our mission has always been to reignite curiosity and respect for science.”
Dr. Anil Kumar Kutty, President, KVRSS, highlighted India’s challenges in research investment: India spends just 0.67% of GDP on R&D, compared to 2.6% in China, 3.6% in the USA, 5.2% in South Korea, and 6% in Israel. India has only 255 researchers per million population, compared to 1,600 in China, 4,600 in the USA, and 8,400 in Israel.
