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“Andhra Pradesh to be a Green Hydrogen Valley” –  Honourable CM Sri Chandrababu Naidu at the Green Hydrogen Summit 2025

The Honourable Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu, inaugurated the Green Hydrogen Summit-2025 at SRM AP. Dr V K Saraswat, Member of NITI Aayog, Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications, Govt. of India, Sri K Vijayanand IAS, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, and Dr P Sathyanarayananan, Pro-Chancellor of SRM AP, graced the event as the guests of honour. The two-day summit involved government agencies, researchers, policymakers and industrialists to address the critical need for a clean energy transition for a cleaner, more sustainable and forward-looking future.

In his inaugural address, the Honourable CM Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu termed the Green Hydrogen Summit a historical forum that brought together global experts and industries in Andhra Pradesh to work towards affordable, cost-effective clean energy. He stated that with a Rs 10,00,000 crore investment, offering 7.5 lakh jobs in green hydrogen and its derivatives for the country, and with the Andhra Pradesh Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia Policy, and ideological balance, no other state has stronger prospects in working towards green hydrogen development and storage. He also declared Amaravati as Green Hydrogen Valley, which will focus on affordable, cost-effective clean energy. He said, “This landmark summit marks a significant step towards protecting nature, a circular economy, and sustainability.”

Guest of Honour, Dr V.K. Saraswat, Honourable Member, NITI Aayog, commented on the significance of opting for cleaner fuels and energy resources. He said, “Green Hydrogen, which is at the heart of the National Hydrogen Mission, is a step towards achieving a sustainable, carbon-neutral future.”

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Prof. D Narayana Rao, Executive Director-Research, SRM Group of Institutions, outlined the various initiatives by the ministries of the state – Road Transport and Highways, Petroleum and Natural Gas, Steel – have already taken up green hydrogen projects that align with their sector. He also said SRM University-AP will establish an Innovation centre for Green Hydrogen Technologies.

With a vision to develop Andhra Pradesh as a hydrogen hub, Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications, Govt. of India, remarked that right investments and government policies can drive green hydrogen plants to produce clean energy that is scalable and profitable. The Chief Secretary of the State, Sri K Vijayanand IAS, also remarked that the development and utilisation of hydrogen technologies necessitate specific expertise and skill development. The top universities of the nation, such as SRM AP, with advanced research infrastructure and intellect, can innovate and solve the pressing demands for cleaner energy fuel. Mr Pranav Tanti, CEO and President of Synergen Green Energy, also said that Andhra Pradesh is a highly favourable state to establish an industry for Green Hydrogen.

Aiming to nurture innovation and skill development in the clean energy space, Dr P Sathyanarayanan, Pro-Chancellor of SRM AP, announced the launch of the Department of Energy Engineering at the SRM Institute of Emerging Technology. “If our generation is the last to use fossil fuels, the next generation must lead the clean energy revolution. With their ideas, innovation, and courage, the youth will carry this transformation forward,” commented Dr P Sathyanarayanan.

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The Green Hydrogen Summit 2025, jointly organised by SRM University-AP, Government of Andhra Pradesh, IIT Tirupati, IISER Tirupati, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Govt. of India, New & Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Ltd. and the SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu, explores the research and development, innovation, commercialisation of green hydrogen. Keynote addresses, plenary sessions and conclaves with industry stalwarts, research organisations, and policymakers aim to open new frontiers in the green hydrogen sector.

Read more about plenary sessions and conclaves

ADITRI, the flagship event by the Directorate of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, witnessed the launch of 100 women-led startups today. The momentous launch and machinery distribution & technical know-how transfer ceremony was inaugurated by Dr Chandra Shekhar Pemmasani, the Minister of State for Rural Development & Communications, Government of India.

The Ceremony, a culmination of the year-long endeavor, was aimed at empowering rural women and enabling them to become micro-entrepreneurs. Dr Pemmasani handed over machinery and certificates to the women entrepreneurs and stated, “Everyone wishes to be an entrepreneur, but it takes perseverance, courage, and sacrifice to actually pursue that path, the women here have shown that with passion and initiative, anything is possible.”

Dr Pemmasani lauded the contribution of SRM AP, Amaravati the grassroot level efforts of its Centre for Social Entrepreneurship on achieving this huge social change milestone. He also enumerated the myriad schemes such as MUDRA, Lakhpati Didi, Start-Up India, and Stand-Up India, as well as the digital platforms such as Facebook, Youtube, WhatsApp, and so on, using which entrepreneurs can learn and grow. He also added that “Women today can access knowledge on packaging, selling, and pricing right from their phones. ” He stated that self-help groups (SHGs) offer both community support and a path to income.

The event saw the participation of 1,500+ individuals alongside Dr Chandra Shekhar Pemmasani; SRM AP’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora; Pro-Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ch Sathish Kumar; Registrar, Dr R Premkumar, Deans, Directors, and Members of the Faculty, Staff, and Students.

ADITRI, the Rural Women Micro-entrepreneurship initiative of SRM AP, is committed to empowering rural women, enabling them to be self-reliant, and improving their livelihood access. This mission also addresses critical gaps such as the lack of market access and resource acquisition.

Prof. Sidharth Shankar Tripathy, Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, SRM University AP,  Amaravati remarked in his address that, “The vision of youth and the spirit of entrepreneurship have the power to change the world. ADITRI serves as a testament to the growing appreciation of how the rest of the nation views this model.”

As part of their efforts to launch the women-led business, the Centre for Social Entrepreneurship at the varsity offered bootcamps, 8+ training sessions, 7 briefing sessions across 200 + villages. The event also witnessed live interaction with rural women entrepreneurs through their product showcase and stalls. Events such as these boost not only the socio-economic landscape of a country but also bolster their skill and foster cultural preservation.

 

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SRM University-AP commemorated its signature event, Research Day Ninth edition, on April 11, 2025, celebrating the relentless spirit of enquiry, excellence and innovation. The esteemed event witnessed the gracious presence of Prof. Ashok K Ganguli, Director-IISER Berhampur, Odisha, as the chief guest along with the university leadership Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora, Registrar Dr R Premkumar, Dean-Research Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Research Day Convenor Dr Sunil Chinnadurai, Deans of other schools, faculty, staff and students.

In his welcome address, Prof. Manoj Arora elucidated the significance of research and innovation in the university’s academic structure and plan to achieve institutional excellence. He stated, “Research Day is fundamentally a platform to identify talented students who have the potential to work on innovative ideas that can be implemented to benefit society.” He also mentioned the future prospects of establishing a Ratan Tata Innovation Hub in Amaravati, where SRM AP will play a pivotal role in one of the five spokes.

Prof. Ganguli, an experienced researcher and scientist, appreciated Research Day as a pioneering initiative by SRM AP to promote a vibrant research culture across all academic levels. He said, “With a faculty pool with excellent pedigree, international exposure and a strong research acumen, SRM University-AP is on the right path to academic and research excellence.” He also discussed the transformation of teaching and research in the future years, emphasising that in the era of the AI revolution, novel, innovative research and creativity will triumph over robotic intelligence.

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The event revealed the abstract book comprising 263 UG/PG and 131 PhD abstracts in more than 30 thematic areas. 17 students were awarded gold medals, and 5 were awarded silver medals in the UG/PG category. In the PhD category, 10 scholars won the gold medals, and 5 won the silver medals.

For their outstanding contribution to cutting-edge research, selected faculty members of SRM AP were recognised with Best Researcher Awards. Dr Pardha Saradhi M was honoured with the Best Experimental Researcher Award, Dr Murali Krishna E with the Best Theoretical Researcher Award, Dr Dinesh Reddy V with the Best Industrial Researcher Award and Dr Harish Puppala with the Best Young Researcher Award. The faculty were felicitated with a memento and a cash prize of Rs 50,000/- for their high-quality research.

The 9th Research Day has successfully concluded, celebrating talent, perseverance, and innovation. With an unwavering commitment to interdisciplinary research and international collaborations, SRM University-AP advances to the frontiers of academic and research excellence.

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SRM University-AP honoured the 76th Year of India as a Republic with regal celebrations at the campus. Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora hoisted the flag in the presence of Registrar Dr R Premkumar, Deans and Directors, faculty, staff and students, followed by a parade by the security staff of the university. Ms Jyotika Sri Dandi, student of Easwari School of Liberal Arts who represented the Indian team at the Women’s 4x400m Relay for the Paris Olympics 2024, was also present for the occasion.

In his address, Prof. Manoj K Arora spoke about the country’s golden heritage and the battle for freedom led by our freedom fighters and visionary leaders, which led to the momentous victory of Purna Swaraj. He underscored the significance of our Constitution representing the values that unite the diverse nation. “Our country has developed in leaps and bounds with our pivotal position on the global economic front, achievements in education and sports, and our advanced space programme. India is on its way to becoming a developed nation by 2047, and we must strive together as citizens to achieve this inclusive vision,” stated Prof. Arora in his address. He also briefed on the university’s stellar growth in academics, research and innovation, entrepreneurial startups, infrastructure and the plan for the upcoming year.

The celebration also witnessed the felicitation of the student-athlete and Olympian, Ms Jyotika Sri Dandi, who participated in the Paris Olympics 2024. The university awarded her a reward cheque of Rs 20 Lakhs for her remarkable contribution to Indian sports and her alma mater. In her address of gratitude, she stated, “SRM University-AP provided me with immense support for my academics with scholarships and the best resources for training. With two Olympians already in its fold, I am sure that in 10 years we will harbour the best contingent of athletes and academicians among all Indian universities.”

Pro-Chancellor Dr P Sathyanarayanan sanctioned Rs 70 lakh to be awarded to students who have won various national and inter-university sports championships. Cash prizes ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 1,00,000 were awarded to student-athletes for their exemplary sports performances during the event. Faculty and staff who have rendered five years of service to the university were also honoured with a memento and certificate in recognition of their contribution to the university’s development. The Republic Day celebrations concluded with various cultural programmes by students celebrating the diversity of the great nation.

The future is going to be a system of systems,” – Mr Dasari Ramakrishna, CEO & MD of Efftronics Systems Pvt. Ltd. at the Systems Engineering Summit 2025 hosted by SRM University-AP.

SRM University-AP kicked off the prestigious Systems Engineering Summit 2025 (SES 2025) on January 23, 2025, partnering with Efftronics Systems Pvt. Ltd., INCOSE India, IEEE Systems Council, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Information Technology Association of Andhra Pradesh (iTAAP). This two-day summit, to empower the next generation of system engineers, is designed as an outreach initiative to introduce students, faculty, and industry professionals to fundamental concepts, techniques, and exciting career thoughts in systems engineering.

Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora remarked, “Systems Engineering is a highly interdisciplinary field that overarches all branches of engineering and management disciplines. The SES 2025 is an informative platform for young engineers to understand how systems engineering drives innovation in today’s complex world.”

This summit brought together thought leaders and industry practitioners from different sectors, such as aerospace, automotive healthcare, defence, and industry manufacturers, for an array of keynote sessions and panel discussions on systems engineering as a key to navigating the transforming world. Mr Dasari Ramakrishna of Efftronics Systems Pvt Ltd opined that Systems Engineering provides exceptional aspirational directions and career thoughts. He said that in this rapidly evolving world, automation with a system of systems integration is the future, and it is time to introduce the concept into the curriculum of higher educational institutions.

An MoU was signed between SRM University-AP and Efftronics Systems Pvt. Ltd. to ensure active industry participation in academia, bridging the gap between the classroom and the workforce. SRM University-AP and the other participating universities, VIT-AP University, Vignan University, Siddhartha Academy of Higher Education, and Acharya Nagarjuna University, also signed an MoU with INCOSE India, exploring various opportunities to ensure the academic curriculum of the universities are made industry-ready.

Dr Yogananda Jeppu, Executive Committee Member – Academia, INCOSE India, Technical Fellow and Systems Architect – Boeing, stated, “The collaboration between industries and educational universities is the driving force of innovation. In a world of interconnectedness and complexity, systems engineering is the interdisciplinary field that will break the silos and bring innovation through its methodology.”

Notable dignitaries from industry, academia and the government including Smt. Lakshmi Mukkavilli, President, IT Association of Andhra Pradesh, MD – Patra India BPO Services; Dr S V Kota Reddy, Vice Chancellor, VIT-AP University; Prof. Paruchuri Venkateswara Rao, Vice Chancellor, Siddhartha Academy of Higher Education; Prof. K Gangadhara Rao, Vice Chancellor, Acharya Nagarjuna University; Cmde. Dr M S Raghunathan, Registrar, Vignan University; Dr Maheswar Dwivedy, Associate Dean – Academia-Industry Relations and Professional Internships, SRM AP also shared their insights on the significance of this prestigious summit.

The Systems Engineering Summit 2025 organised as a joint initiative by SRM AP and various organisations, proved to be not just a summit but a call for action. The summit inspired a meaningful dialogue to create a roadmap for technological advancements in systems engineering for a more equitable and more sustainable society.

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“Engineering very small things, structures less than 10nm, is challenging – and this is my biggest interest.” – Prof. Pulickel M Ajayan.

The university hosted its nineteenth edition of the University Distinguished Lecture, featuring a celebrated talk on “Nano-Engineered Materials” by eminent scientist Prof. Pulickel M Ajayan, Benjamin M. and Mary Greenwood Anderson Professor of Engineering and Founding Chair of the Department of Materials Science and Nanoengineering at Rice University, Texas, USA on January 07, 2025. A pioneer in nanotechnology with a noteworthy career extended to three decades, Prof. Ajayan’s session elucidated the recent developments in nanotechnology, particularly in relation to the challenges in designing and controllably synthesising functional nano-engineered materials.

Prof. Ajayan spoke extensively on the three major key points – Atomically Thin Layers (2D) Vertical and Lateral Heterostructures, Defects & Single Atoms and Printed 3D Nano-architectures & Nanocomposites. “Three decades ago, nanotechnology or nanomaterial science was just emerging. Today, it has become an enabling technology with fundamental developments in controlled manufacturing of nanomaterials,” remarked Prof. Ajayan in his lecture. He proceeded to elucidate the various phases of nanotechnology – the first phase, where scientists worked on the fundamental understanding of material synthesis, controlled fabrication, etc.; the second phase of integrating nanotechnology into potential devices; and the current phase of high-tier development through commercialisation.

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“A prominent figure in nanotechnology, Prof. Ajayan’s work in carbon nanotubes is exemplary in understanding the building of nano heterostructures. It is a privilege to have him share his wealth of knowledge on this remarkable occasion,” said Prof. CV Tomy, Dean – SEAS, in his welcome address. Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Dean – Research, also praised Prof. Ajayan for his contributions to nanoengineering and material science. Prof. Ajayan also had a brief interaction with the faculty regarding potential academic and research collaborations.

The 19th University’s distinguished lecture on nano-engineered materials ignited genuine curiosity about the field among the participating students. The profile of Prof. Pulickel M Ajayan and his astounding research portfolio motivated both faculty and students to explore nanoengineering and material sciences. The 19th UDL was graced by the presence of Registrar Dr R Premkumar, Deans of various schools, faculty from various streams and students of the varsity. The UDL series is a testament to the university’s passion for research and commitment to place SRM AP in the frontiers of academic and research excellence.

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The Central Library hosted a highly successful Book Exhibition from November 21 – 23, 2024 in collaboration with Shah Books House (Hyderabad), Shanthi Book House (Chennai), and ISKCON Society (Vijayawada). The exhibition offered a wide range of books covering academic references, research materials, and general interest genres, catering to students, faculty, and staff. Special discounts were available to attendees, making this event an enriching experience for everyone involved.

Our exhibition was inaugurated by Dr Vinayak Kalluri, Dean – Academic Affairs and Prof. C V Tomy, Dean – SEAS in the presence of Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora, who praised the exhibition’s ability to promote reading habits and encourage academic curiosity among students and faculty alike. Over 500 attendees, including students, faculty members, and visiting scholars, enthusiastically participated, all of whom explored the rich collection of books on display.

The collaboration with the partnering organisations ensured that the needs of the academic community were met, with resources spanning across disciplines, research interests, and general reading preferences. Many students highlighted the wide variety of books available, extending beyond the core curriculum and including topics catering to their interests and career goals. Faculty members appreciated the opportunity to recommend books for future acquisitions, ensuring the library remains up-to-date with the latest academic trends and resources.

The 2024 Book Exhibition was a resounding success, fostering a deeper connection to reading within the SRM University-AP community. The collaborative efforts of the vendors and ISKCON Society, along with the enthusiastic participation of students and faculty, made this a memorable event. Moving forward, the university plans to expand future exhibitions by incorporating more digital reading resources and hosting guest speakers to enhance the experience further.

On August 24, 2024, SRM University-AP commemorated a significant event marking the 85th Birthday of the esteemed Founder Chancellor of the SRM Group, Dr T R Paarivendhar, celebrating his visionary leadership and contributions. In honour of this day, and reinforcing the ethos of sustainability and environmental consciousness, the university launched “Prerna Vanam,” a plantation-drive initiative.

This annual initiative served as a testament to the varsity’s ongoing efforts to contribute positively to the environment, aligning with global sustainability goals and the founder’s visionary ideals. As we face the challenges of global warming, the varsity comes together to combat climate change, support biodiversity, and ensure a sustainable future. The event held at the university campus was attended by students, staff, and faculty members of the university and helped set a practical example of how institutions can play a pivotal role in making the world a better place for future generations by investing in ecological sustainability.

SRM University-AP conducted its 2nd Virtual Alumni Meet on August 24, 2024, coinciding with the birthday celebration of the Founder Chancellor of SRM Group, Dr T R Paarivendhar.

The meet attracted a diverse group of alumni, including South Indian film actress and former SRM student Ms Iswarya Menon, who served as the chief guest. Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora addressed the alumni with a compelling message about their role in shaping the future. He emphasised the importance of alumni involvement, stating, “Your contributions are crucial as we work towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.” Prof. Arora highlighted how the alumni’s active participation in building an alumni corpus and supporting the university will play a key role in driving the institution’s progress and fostering future generations of leaders.

He further noted that the alumni’s continued engagement not only benefits the university but also strengthens the support network available to current and future students, ensuring the sustained success of the varsity’s mission of excellence.

Chief Guest Ms Iswarya Menon, a former SRM student, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the institution. “The guidance and support I received from SRM have been pivotal in my career development. I am truly grateful for the foundation laid here, which has significantly shaped my professional journey.”

The group of former students communicated their profound appreciation for the varsity, emphasising the significant impact it has had on their lives. They reaffirmed their commitment to actively support the university’s various initiatives and to aid in its continued growth and success.

Dr Satish Anamalamudi, Assistant Director-Alumni Relations, acknowledged the importance of alumni engagement. He remarked, “Your continued connection with SRM University-AP is essential for our growth and success.”

The event was further enlivened by performances from both alumni and current students, adding a dynamic and festive atmosphere that showcased the vibrant spirit and creativity at SRM University-AP. Registrar Dr R Premkumar, along with the deans and faculty, attended the gathering, reinforcing the strong and enduring bond between SRM University-AP and its alumni.

 

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In a commendable display of community spirit and dedication to saving lives, SRM University-AP hosted a Blood Donation Camp to honour World Blood Donor’s Day. Organised in collaboration with Guntur Medical College, the event marked a significant success and underscored the university’s steadfast commitment to societal welfare.

The camp’s inauguration was graced by Chief Guest Mr Venugopal Reddy, Collector of the Guntur Region. He was accompanied by Dr V Kiran Kumar, Chief Surgeon, and his team from the Government Blood Centre at Government General Hospital-Guntur, Dr R Premkumar, Registrar of SRM University-AP, and Ms Revathi Balakrishnan, Associate Director of Student Affairs, and other key dignitaries witnessed the inaugural ceremony.

In his opening address, Mr Venugopal Reddy stressed the crucial significance of blood donation, emphasising that “Blood is a vital component that cannot be artificially manufactured in laboratories.”

Registrar Dr Premkumar emphasised the importance of donating blood and highlighted that “donation continues to be the sole way to guarantee an ongoing supply of this life-saving elixir.” He stressed the significance of these camps in cultivating a culture of altruism and accountability within the university community.

The university enthusiastically participates in coordinating frequent blood donation drives to support the community and meet the demand for blood donations. The event also served as a platform to dispel myths surrounding blood donation, thereby encouraging broader participation. The students, faculty, and staff of SRM University-AP showed immense enthusiasm in donating blood, significantly contributing to the camp’s outstanding success.

Adding to the day’s significance, Dr Karthik Rajendran, Associate Dean-QAR, was honoured with the Lifesaver Award by the Indian Red Cross Society. This prestigious accolade was bestowed in recognition of his substantial contributions to blood donation and his unwavering commitment to saving lives.

The varsity’s Blood Donation Camp exemplifies the profound impact of collective effort in addressing critical healthcare needs. It highlights the university’s unwavering commitment to making a positive societal impact and reinforces the importance of regular blood donation and community service.