Srinagar, Sept 2: In a major boost to research and innovation at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, two faculty members have secured prestigious research grants from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India, amounting to more than Rs1.11 crore.
According to a statement issued here, Dr. Manoj Kumar, Assistant Professor (Grade I) in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has been awarded the Inclusivity Research Grant (IRG) for his project “Solar-powered Atmospheric Water Harvesting System Integrated with Desiccant Wheel for Cool and Dry Climate.”
The project, sanctioned at a total cost of Rs 43.68 lakh for three years, aims to develop a solar-powered system capable of extracting potable water from ambient air in regions where conventional technologies fail.
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Kumar said this support from ANRF and the Government of India is an excellent opportunity to work on inclusive and practical solutions to pressing environmental issues. The goal is to create technology that serves communities most in need,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ikhlaq Hussain, Assistant Professor (Grade I) in the Department of Electrical Engineering, has bagged the Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant (PM ECRG) for his project “Seamless Transition between Grid-Forming and Grid-Following Modes in a Grid-Tied Solar Photovoltaic System.”
The project has received ₹68 lakh in funding over three years and seeks to develop advanced control strategies to enhance the stability and flexibility of renewable energy systems. On the recognition, Dr. Ikhlaq said that he is thankful to ANRF and the Department of Science and Technology for recognizing the potential of this research.
