annual report 2010-11 - mcrc

MCRC

VISION

MISSION

Improve environment and provide sustainable

livelihood for the poor and marginalized

Develop environmentally sound technologies

Conserve, recycle and reuse natural resources

Also develop technologies to provide sustainable livelihood for poor and marginalized

Disseminate directly or indirectly through other agencies

CONTENTS

1. About MCRC 1

2. Research & Development Activities 3

I Energy 3

II Environment 5

III Bioresources & Biodiversity 7

IV Microbial & Plant Biotechnology 9

V Sustainable Agriculture 11

3. Projects 14

4. Centre for Excellence in Rural Development - DST Core Support 16

5. Extension Activities 17

6. Publications / Patents / Technology transfers 19

7. Dr. C. V. Seshadri Memorial Lecture 22

8. Programmes Organized 24

9. Photo Gallery 35

10. Resources 38

11. Guidance & Support 44

Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre (MCRC) is a not-for-profit research organization having its ideologies

centered on science and technology applications to improve the quality of life of rural people, particularly the under

privileged and marginalized. Formed in the early seventies of 20th century, MCRC was registered under the Societies

Registration Act of 1860 on 21st September 1973 at Chennai. The registered office of the Centre is at No.3/2,

Sreeram Nagar, North Street, Alwarpet, Chennai - 600 018. All donations to this centre are exempted from Income

Tax under Section 35(1) (ii) of the Income Tax Act of 1961.

Over the years, technologies and techniques developed from rural oriented research have been successfully implemented

in the village milieu. In recognition of MCRC’s expertise in low cost technologies and its involvement in rural

development, the Council for Advancement of People’s Action and Rural Technology (CAPART), Government of

India, has recognized MCRC as a Technology Resource Centre to disseminate the rural technologies to various

NGOs, Farmers, Institutions and Individuals. The Department of Science and Technology, Government of India

has offered Core Support to the centre for developing appropriate technologies for the rural areas.

MCRC is also recognized as a “Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO)” by the Department of

Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India organization and this entails this Centre to receive

administrative support from the Ministry of Science and Technology that is necessary to promote S & T activities.

MCRC is also recognized by University of Madras to offer Ph.D programmes in Photosynthesis, Energy and

Biogas.

MCRC disseminates technologies and implements its activities directly or indirectly through selected Voluntary

Organizations functioning in various parts of the country. The centre receives funds from Government of India

funding agencies such as Department of Science and Technology, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of New

and Renewable Energy, Centre of Scientific Industrial Research, Defence Research and Development Organization

etc., and also from other national and international organizations for its R & D projects. Sponsored research from

other organizations is also carried out, particularly in benign biotechnology areas. So far MCRC has successfully

completed 92 projects funded by different agencies.

ABOUT MCRC

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Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

Executive Summary

MCRC pursues appropriate research in different fields of science and technology through understanding the needs

of people and providing solutions to their problems, thereby tackling some of the most demanding concerns of the

society. While eight projects attained successful completion during the year 2010-11, 10 research programmes are

currently being carried out at the centre. Technologies developed through research programmes are effectively

transferred or disseminated to the beneficiaries through other voluntary organizations in various parts of the country.

Including the “Ganoderma cultivation technique” which has been transferred on 24th March 2011, three technologies

have been so far transferred by MCRC through payment mode, whereas 13 technologies were disseminated free of

cost for societal development. So far 13 patents have been filed by our scientists on various products and processes

developed at the centre, of which three are currently under process.

As a part of academic activities, MCRC helps researchers to undertake Ph.D programmes in different areas of

Photosynthesis, Biomass and Energy, registered with the University of Madras. Fifteen research students have so far

obtained their Ph. D degrees while 18 scholars are currently pursuing the Doctoral programme. In addition, MCRC

guides and provides infrastructure to students from various Universities and Colleges to carry out short term

research projects. This year more than 20 students had undertaken short term projects at MCRC.

As a part of the extension activities, MCRC tries to reach beneficiaries by providing awareness and expertise to

NGOs, farmers, self help groups and even individuals through training programmes and awareness cum technology

workshops. This year, about ten training programmes were organized at the centre mainly through DST Core

Support programme. Ten research papers were published in various national and international journals, in addition

to technology posters and booklets prepared on the different technologies developed at the centre.

MCRC consists of a group of committed scientists, technicians and administrative staff, along with a scientific team

to undertake all the research activities and extension programmes, especially for the benefit of rural people. In its

effort to improve the skills and widen the knowledge in different arenas, MCRC organizes special lectures and

training programmes for the staff in addition to the In-House seminars conducted every week for the scholars. This

year 11 special lectures were organized in addition to 50 In-House Seminars, including Paper Readings and Book

Reviews. Other than this, MCRC staff attended various training programmes, exhibitions and meetings organized

by other institutions and also delivered lectures and radio talks on various topics.

MCRC is equipped with all necessary requirements for its research activities and field trials. The institute is spread in

two campuses, one situated at Taramani having a total built area of about 17,000 sq ft including the laboratories,

administrative office and other facilities such as students’ room, library, auditorium, refreshment room, workshop

and soil testing laboratory. MCRC has sufficient computer facilities with broadband internet access. Experiments

and trials are conducted in the field at Vadakadambadi campus having eight acres of land near Mahabalipuram.

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Annual Report 2010-2011

The research at MCRC focuses mainly on a few broad areas such as Energy, Environment, Bioresources &

Biodiversity, Microbial & Plant Biotechnology and Sustainable Agriculture. The year 2010-2011 with its

vibrancy and eventfulness, witnessed a significant and worthy growth in the research and development activities. To

make its efforts successful, MCRC has formed strategic collaborations with a number of educational institutions,

industries with corporate social responsibility, and both public and voluntary sector organizations. Substantial funding

for various projects has been received from DST, DBT, DRDO and CSIR, along with the annual donations from

Murugappa group companies.

I ENERGY

1. Bio-methane

MCRC has recently completed a collaborative research

programme on “Isolation, identification and development

of methanogens for in situ generation of methane from oil

reservoirs” with ONGC. The results of the studies indicated

the presence of hydrogen producing bacterial strains like

Caldanaerobacter sp. and Coprothermobacter sp. in the microbial

consortia. Three isolates of a methanogenic bacterium

Methanothermobacter thermautotrophicus were studied for methane

production. Oil samples amended with various nutrients viz. nitrogen, modified mineral salts, phosphates and TCA

cycle intermediates were studied for methane production by hydrogen producing isolates and a consortium. The

microbial consortia could tolerate 2% NaCl and grow between pH 6.0 and 7.0.

2. Biomass charcoal briquettes

MCRC has been working on improved Biomass charcoal briquetting

technology in which different types of plant biomass are converted

into charcoal briquettes and their calorific value and burning properties

studied. Different agricultural wastes such as sugarcane trash, bagasse,

oil palm fruit bunch and commonly available plants or their parts like

Prosophis twigs, Ipomoea stem, Lantana camara stem, coconut leaves,

Eucalyptus leaves, mango leaves, teak leaves, coffee husk, Delonix regiafruit pod and banana empty fruit bunch were collected from

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

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various places of Tamil Nadu and carbonized at different temperatures (100°C to 600°C) for optimizing the char

yield. Different cost effective binders such as starch, rice powder, clay etc. were also tried. The calorific value of the

selected biomass was found to be ~40% higher after carbonization. The produced briquettes were tested at local

teashops, laundry and small hotels in Chennai for alternative fuel. The standardized charcoal briquetting technology

has been disseminated to five different villages in Tamil Nadu.

3. Bio-ethanol

A recently launched research project entitled “A technology for the production

of ethanol from spent biomass of seaweeds and identification of the

byproducts for suitable applications” sanctioned by DST, Government of

India, aims to utilize spent seaweed biomass as an economically viable

feedstock for alcohol production due to its high level of carbohydrates. A

system will be developed to exploit seaweeds after the traditional

polysaccharide production and extraction of pigments, in addition to

identification of other useful byproducts such as feed and compost.

Successful utilization of seaweed waste is expected to produce maximum

yield of ethanol if degraded completely by microorganisms. It is hoped that the technology will create a new avenue

for income generation to coastal people through seaweed farming.

4. Solar dryer

Drying is the oldest preservation technique of horticulture and agricultural

products and it is an energy intensive process. Use of renewable energy

such as solar energy in the drying process is environmental friendly and has

less environmental impact. Though sun drying is the cheapest method widely

used in many countries, the quality of the dried products is often far below

the standards. To improve the product quality and to reduce losses, MCRC

has fabricated two types of solar dryers using Aluminium and Stainless

Steel of 20 kg capacity. The efficacy of solar dryer was tested by calculating

the drying time of various samples. Fish, vegetables and medicinal plant leaves took less time for drying compared

to traditional method. Dried samples were also tested for nutrient contents and the results were found to be good

as compared to traditional methods of drying. Rate of drying was also found to be higher.

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II ENVIRONMENT II ENVIRONMENT

1. Algae based CO2 sequestration

Capture and biological sequestration of carbon dioxide by

photosynthetic microalgae has been studied through a research project

“CO2 Sequestration using micro algae - Efficient use of CO2 from

bio-hydrogen production facility”. Different algal strains were studied

for utilization of CO2 as a carbon source, in a newly designed cost

effective medium amended with industrial waste water. The study has

been scaled up to six litres in open tanks sparged with air and CO2 to

grow Scenedesmus sp. This was later scaled up to 35 L at bench level

and to 150 L at pilot scale. The set up was sustained for more than

four months under open environmental conditions.

2. Fabrication of simple water filters

Through a DST sponsored project entitled “Fabrication of an efficient

water filter - Ensuring safe drinking water supply to Rural Areas”

simple, cost effective and efficient household filters were fabricated

using sand, pebbles and locally prepared carbon or activated carbon

to ensure safe drinking water supply to rural areas. Among the different

models, MCRC F4 water filters showed ~ 98% of microbial and ~

10% of physicochemical property reduction in different water samples.

The filters can provide 14 litres of output per day, which would work

out to 420 litres per month. Scaling up of the size along with output is being carried out now.

3. Microbiological characteristics of Chennai

The research project operated to survey the microbiological characteristics

of Chennai, Southeast Coast of India has come to an end. Through this

project, enumeration, isolation and characterization of total heterotrophic

bacteria, identification of their seasonal abundance, distribution and

diversity were made. In addition, analysis of physicochemical and

microbiological parameters, along with bacterial diversity through PCR

aided DGGE was monitored in the coastal waters. Sequence homology

studies revealed the presence of Pseudomonas sp., Pseudoalteromonas sp., Bacillus

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sp., Vibrio sp., Vibrio parahaemolyticus, B. cereus, Bartonella sp., Arcobacter sp., Rhodobacter sp., Shewanella sp., Oceanospirillaceaesp., Roseovarius sp., Microbacterium sp., Halomonas sp., and Nitriliruptor alkaliphilus, and a number of other uncultured

bacteria.

4. Methylotrophs in solid wastes, sewerage and atmospheric air

Through a research programme on isolation of methylotrophs from various environments, different isolates were

characterized for various properties viz. polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) production, protease and cellulase production,

phosphate solubilization, siderophore production, hydrogen production, tolerance to heavy metals etc. The plant

growth promoting abilities of the isolates were tested on paddy by using selected isolates as bio-fertilizer. Some of

the novel isolates are characterized at molecular level to find out their identity. The gene sequences obtained were

submitted to NCBI Gene Bank.

5. Rural greening and community development programme

As part of societal development initiatives, MCRC has recently launched a programme on “Rural Greening and

Community Development in Sivaganga, Karaikudi and Ulundurpet Taluks of Sivaganga and Villupuram districts,

Tamil Nadu”. This programme aims to reduce the impact of climate change caused by increased carbon footprint

and to improve the socio economic conditions of rural communities by increasing the human activities. One lakh

economically important and forest tree saplings will be planted along with medicinal plant gardens in the backyards

of village households by motivating people in rural areas through awareness programmes and participatory

interventions. This programme is spread for a period of four years and will eventually help 4000 beneficiaries in 80

villages.

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III BIORESOURCES AND BIODIVERSITY

1. Value added products from Amla

Amla, the Indian gooseberry, which is rich in high concentrations of Vitamin C, bioflavonoids and antioxidants, has

been studied through a DST funded project entitled “Value Added Products from Amla for Women Self Help

Groups” for the development of value added products. Amla juice fortified with mango, pineapple, watermelon and

papaya juices can very well provide the “Recommendable Dietary Allowance” (RDA) of vitamin C to the common

man. In addition, its nutraceutical value can be increased by adding probiotic organisms. The project was intended to

create employment as well as entrepreneurship opportunities for women Self-Help Groups in rural areas where 15

villages were sensitized about the importance of amla juice and its consumption, and 43 beneficiaries from Sivaganga,

Ariyalur and Coimbatore districts of Tamil Nadu were trained on preparation of amla blended juice.

2. Intensive cultivation of moringa leaves as dietary supplement in rural areas

The highly nutritional properties and the phytochemicals present in

moringa make it an excellent natural, organic dietary supplement that

supports general health. Through a DST sponsored project entitled

“Intensive production and processing of moringa leaves in rural areas;

cost effective dietary formulations for income generation” studies were

carried out in different types of soils, and suitable processing methods

were developed so as to utilize its nutritional value as a source of vitamin

A in a cost effective dietary formulation and as a source of income

generation for rural women. Moringa seeds were provided to farmers

in the selected village along with suitable training programmes and distribution of pamphlets. Dried leaves received

from farmers were processed and sold in the open market. Different recipes for the preparation of Idly, Dosa,

Paniyaram, Chapathi, Sambar, Tea, Soup, Idiyappam, Kozhukattai, Omlet, Roti, Semiya Kitchadi and Murukku

were prepared using moringa leaves.

3. Natural dyes from plants

Concerns for the environment and increasing awareness on the benefits of natural dyes have led the research at

MCRC to develop a new technology that yields higher amounts of indigo as against the traditional method of

indigo extraction. The indigo plants were harvested and cut into small pieces using briquetting machine. A mechanical

agitator specially designed and fabricated at MCRC facilitated rapid oxidation of the fermented plant extracts. This

innovation minimizes the time for the extraction process and augments the quantity and quality of the dye. Use of

special nets during the soaking and fermentation processes prevents plant debris from contaminating the dye preparation

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inside the tank. Biological extraction includes various micro-organisms

such as Pseudomonas, Trichoderma sp. and Pythium sp. and two different

enzymes such as amylase and cellulase which were inoculated separately

and studied for their efficacy in indigo fermentation with different pH

ranging from 4.0 – 7.0. A package of simplified efficient technology

has been developed and disseminated to different NGOs such as

Gandhigram Trust, Inba Seva Sangam and Farmers association of

Tamil Nadu. Apart from dye extraction from indigo plants, MCRC

has motivated local farmers for cultivating the indigo plants as an intercrop in coconut and sapota farms at Cuddalore,

Villupuram, Dindigul and Karur areas for additional income.

4. Medicinal plant propagation

Mass propagation of different medicinal plants have been carried

out at MCRC through tissue culture and soilless cultivation methods.

Apart from standardizing the in vitro micropropagation package for

Gymnema sylvestre, preliminary experiments on cultivation of medicinal

plants such as Coleus ambonicus, Justicia gendarussa and Rhinacanthus nasutusthrough soilless culturing system is in progress. A net house of 1200

sq.mt with mist chamber has been fabricated at the field at

Vadakadambadi campus for mass multiplication of medicinal plants.

5. Eco-friendly handmade paper production

Paper production from non-woody fibers like agave, kenaf and banana pseudostem have been carried out. Different

fungal isolates such as Trichoderma sp., Rhizopus sp. etc were isolated from soil samples and employed for Bio-pulping

& Bio bleaching of fiber extracted, which enhanced the brightness of the paper.

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IV MICROBIAL AND PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY

1. Brachionus plicatilis as a live feed in aquaculture

A study on “Development of cost effective mass culture techniques

of rotifer Brachionus plicatilis” funded by DST under Young Scientist

scheme utilizes marine microalgae such as Chlorella sp., Nannochloropsissp., Tetraselmis sp., Isochrysis sp., Dunalliella sp., Chaetoceros sp., Dicraeteriasp. and Synechococcus sp. as aquaculture feed to grow B. plicatilis. The

conventional medium for algal growth which take up more than 70%

of total cost of chemicals has been replaced by cheaper substitutes

such as NPK 28:28:0. Growth of rotifer showed best results with

Nannochloropsis sp. with a 60 fold increase in 7 days of culture. This

small green alga (2 µm) has a very high lipid, protein and PUFA profile. The addition of 10% Tetraselmis sp. and

Isochrysis sp. resulted in slightly higher growth and fertility rates. Rotifers need a consistent supply of “free” algae in

the water at all times, allowing them to graze continuously. By adopting this technology with suitable modifications

according to local conditions aquaculturists can get substantial benefits.

2. Mushrooms as nutraceutical supplements

The project entitled “Nutraceutical and antiviral potentials from fruit

bodies of Ganoderma lucidum Indian isolates for holistic Ganodermaproduct development” is funded by Department of Biotechnology,

New Delhi. The objective of the project is to validate nutraceutical

and antiviral properties of fruiting bodies of Ganoderma lucidum(MCRC GL 1-7) and to formulate its powder as a potential product

of nutraceutical importance. The project will also grow Ganodermalucidum in a pilot scale level at Sevapur and Chennai. Polysaccharides

extracted from mycelium and broth of all the strains analysed against bacterial cultures (Pseudomonas, Salmonella

typhimurium) did not show any inhibition. Biochemical parameters like carbohydrate, protein and lipids were estimated

in fruit bodies and also mycelium. Triterpenoids were eluted from different soluble fractions of Gl-2 fruiting body

powder. The mass multiplication technology has been transferred for mass production and Ganoderma lucidum tea

powder has been developed.

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3. Yield enhancement of mushroom for dyes

In a project entitled “Yield enhancement, pilot scale production of

Coriolus versicolor, Ganoderma lucidum and application of its pigments in

selected textile dyeing industries”, Coriolus versicolor (MTCC 138) was

extracted with different solvents such as ethyl acetate, acetone, ethanol

and water. A purple compound was identified as a derivative of

terphenyl quinone and the mass was recorded as m/z 583.9. Orange

pigment was obtained from the fruit body of P. sanguineus under boiling in aqueous extract and the predominant

compound in this was identified as Cinnabarin, a phenoxazine derivative. Different extraction methods were carried

out for Ganoderma lucidum and 0.25% lye water was used as an alternate solvent for NaOH solution for the extraction

of pigment. The predominant brown pigment was identified as Curtisian A- like compound. Pilot scale cultivation

of P. sanguineus and G. lucidum was carried at different temperature regimes at Kodaikanal and Sevapur. The pigments

extracted from P. sanguineus, G. lucidum and C. versicolor were tried for dyeing at Kalakshetra, Chennai and industrial

dyeing trials were carried out at Shri Vaibhav processing mills, Erode, Tamil Nadu, India.

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V SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

1. Biodynamic manures

Biodynamic farming is a method of integrating the cosmic and ethnic

forces in crop growth. Cow horn manure (BD 500) and Cow Pat Pit

(CPP) manure were prepared at MCRC. Studies were carried out to

determine the qualitative and quantitative changes occurring during manure

maturity. Silica quartz was used in the preparation of cow horn silica (BD

501) and validation of such preparation is underway.

2. Humus liquid organic fertilizers

A DST sponsored research programme on “Production and formulation of organic

liquid fertilizer (humus) using local resources for income generation to rural farmers”

aims to utilize various locally available biomass like animal / cattle dung / manure

and wastes to produce liquid organic fertilizer (humus) based on biodynamic principles.

Preliminary studies conducted on household manure, goat droppings, FYM manures,

press mud, sewage sludge and vermicompost showed the presence of up to 20%

humic acid. Liquid manure preparations were made with different substrates like

leaves of Calotropis and Thespesia, and moringa leaf powder waste mixed with cow

dung. Humic acid was extracted using a portable filtration unit designed with different

meshes. The liquid manures produced will be characterized for physico-chemical,

biochemical and microbiological properties and their influence on germination and crop growth studied in laboratory

conditions.

3. Biofertilizers and Biopesticides

Increasing awareness about the harmful effects of synthetic agrochemicals used in plant protection and production

has led to research at MCRC on biofertilizers and biopesticides. This comprises isolation, identification and evaluation

of environment friendly microorganisms which are beneficial to agriculture to improve soil fertility or crop productivity.

Bacterial isolates were collected and isolated from different rhizoid soils and screened for phosphate solubilizing and

plant growth promoting properties. Potato dextrose agar was used for fungal isolation and lactophenol cotton blue

test performed for morphological identification. A combination of different Pseudomonas species as biofertilizer and

a combination of Pseudomonas fluorescence and Trichoderma viride cultures were made to check the biocontrol efficiency

of bacterial-fungal consortia against paddy pests. Low cost media and formulations were developed with a

combination of four microbial species such as Trichoderma viride, Paecilomyce lilacinus, Pseudomonas putida and Pseudomonas

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fluorescence for biofertilizer and biopesticide. Field trials were conducted successfully on paddy, tomato and papaya

against Pythium sp.

4. Bacillus thuringiensis as biocontrol agent

Growing concerns about the use of chemical pesticides on environmental

health, safety to human beings and destruction of non-target pests have

led to the development of biological pesticides. Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.) isa Gram positive spore forming bacteria with properties that make it useful

as a valuable alternative to conventional insecticides. In a project “Isolation

and formulation of Bacillus thuringiensis, a biocontrol agent specific to

Lepidopteran rice pests”, B.t. was formulated as wettable powder as well

as liquid concentrate and tested for their shelf life by storing at room

temperature and at 4OC respectively. These formulations are found to be stable without losing its toxicity. The

wettable powder formulation was tested in the lab as well as in the field for the control of leaf folder and stem

borer of rice. Its efficacy to control the rice pests in the field was taken up at three different locations. The results of

these experiments show that the wettable powder formulation controls the rice pests to an extent of 30-40%. In the

case of liquid concentrate 75-90% mortality was observed, highest being in formulation B. This formulation has to

be tested in the field. Also, further field trials are needed to compare the efficacy of the two different formulations

by varying the time of spray and amount of formulated product used to improve the efficacy of the product in

the field. Once the efficacy of the product is established, it can be commercialized.

5. Methylobacterium as a new biofertilizer

Through a project entitled “Establishment of Methylobacterium as a new biofertilizer for improvement of paddy and

sugarcane yield” two Methylotrophic bacterial isolates MBW174 and MSF34 were evaluated for their ability to

produce growth hormones, fix nitrogen, produce siderophores and solubilize phosphate and as a new biofertilizer.

The studies revealed that both the isolates, along with reference strain were able to induce paddy seed germination

and growth. In field condition 12.5% higher grain yield and 6.8% higher straw yield were obtained and at the same

time, better harvest index was also achieved. A cost effective medium for mass production of these strains has been

formulated which costs Rs. 10/ liter and can be diluted to 200 liters per acre which would be sufficient for paddy

growth promotion.

6. Salt tolerant earthworm composting

Salt tolerant earthworms from different saline areas are maintained at MCRC. The collected earthworm species

from salt affected areas were identified as Lampito mauritti. Bioassay test was conducted at different salt concentrations

using biomass and the studies revealed the earthworms to be tolerant to about 4 ppm salt concentration.

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7. Soil nutrient testing through AAT

In the second phase of the project entitled “Approaches to enhance the Integrated Knowledge System on soil

nutrient analysis, site specific validation, demonstration and popularization of AAT”, more soil samples were

collected from varied agro climatic zones of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to update the data and enhance the

performance of AAT. The software has been upgraded and modified based on recommendations. This has proved

to be a simple and cost effective technology for rapid analysis of soil samples through which a system is established

to guide the farmers on the application of fertilizers. More than 16,500 soil samples collected from various parts of

India were analysed for physicochemical properties like Protease activity,

Cellulase activity, Invertase and Alkaline Phosphatase activity and

microbiological quality such as total bacterial colonies, total fungi,

Actinomycetes and nitrogen fixing bacteria. The chromatograms produced

at MCRC were scanned and processed at IIT Madras. A mobile soil testing

laboratory was launched to visit different villages in Tamil Nadu to create

awareness about the importance of soil testing and for popularizing the

Alternative Analytical Technology (AAT) technology among farmers.

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Ongoing Projects

Sl. Title of the project

Principal FundingPeriodNo Investigator Agency

CO2 sequestration using microalgae – efficient1 use of CO2 from a biohydrogen production Dr. S. Seshadri DST

July 2008 to

facilityJuly 2011

2 Core Support ProgrammeDr. K. Perumal

DSTFeb 2009 to

(Project Incharge) Feb 2011

Approaches to enhance the Integrated knowledge

3system on soil nutrient analysis (AAT) site specific

Dr. K. Perumal DSTJuly 2010 to

validation, demonstration and popularization of Dec 2011AAT – Phase II

4Establishment of Regional Resource Agency for

Dr. K. Perumal DBTJune 2009 to

DNA (DBT’s Natural Resources Awareness) Club May 2012

Nutraceutical and Antiviral potentials from fruit5 bodies of Ganoderma lucidum Indian isolates for Dr. K. Perumal DBT

Dec 2010 to

holistic Ganoderma product developmentDec 2013

Isolation and formulation of Bacillus thuringiensis,July 2008 to6 a biocontrol agent specific to leptidopteran Dr. N. Unnamalai DST

rice pests Oct 2010

7Development of cost effective mass culture

Dr. A. Krishnika DSTDec 2008 to

technique of Brachionus plicatilis Dec 2011

Production and formulation of organic liquidJan 2010 to8 fertilizer (humus) using local resources for income Mr. J. Arunkumar DST

generation to rural farmers Jan 2012

A technology for the production of ethanol fromMar 2011 to9 spent biomass of seaweeds and identification of Dr. Beena B. Nair DST

the byproducts for suitable applications Feb 2014

Rural Greening and Community DevelopmentMar 2011 to10 in Sivaganga, Karaikudi and Ulundurpet taluks Dr. Anitha Naren MCRC

of Sivaganga and Villupuram districts by MCRC Mar 2015

PROJECTS AT MCRC

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Completed Projects

Sl. Title of the project

Principal FundingPeriodNo Investigator Agency

Establishment of Methylobacterium as a newFeb 2008 to1 biofertilizer for improvement of paddy and Dr. S. Seshadri DBT

sugar cane yield Mar 2010

2A Survey on the Microbiological Characteristics

Dr. S. Seshadri CSIRJuly 2007 to

of Chennai, Southeast Coast of India Oct 2010

3Value added products from Amla for

Mrs. S. Sivasankari DSTOct 2008 to

women Self Help Groups Oct 2010

Intensive production and processing ofJuly 2007 to

4moringa leaves in rural areas; cost effective

Dr. K. Perumal DSTdietary formulations with mushroom for Dec 2010

income generation

5Integrated Biotechnological intervention for

Dr. S. Seshadri DBTDec 2007 to

Societal Development – A multicentric Approach Dec 2010

6Fabrication of an efficient water filter-ensuring

Dr. S. Seshadri DSTJuly 2008 to

safe drinking water supply to rural areas Dec 2010

Popularizing eco-friendly biotechnological Scienceand Technology interventions for school waste

Sep 2009 to7 recycling and stimulating scientific temper among Mr. V. Chakrapani DSTschool children for creation of eco-friendly Jan 2011

environment

Yield Enhancement and pilot scale production ofSep 2008 to

8Corious versicolor and Ganoderma lucidum and

Dr. K. Perumal DBTapplication of fungal pigments in selected textiles Jan 2011

dyeing industries

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MCRC has been provided with a long-term Core Support under

the scheme Science and Technology Application for Rural

Development (STARD) sponsored by Science and Society division,

DST New Delhi. Under this programme, MCRC works at the

grass root level on location specific problems other than providing

innovative solutions through S&T interventions related to different

sectors of rural economy on a long-term basis. Research and

Development activities are focused on a few thrust areas such as

biomass charcoal briquetting, biofertilizer and biopesticides, medicinal plants, natural indigo, salt tolerant earthworm

composting, biodynamic manures, eco-friendly handmade paper production and fabrication of solar dryers. Local

knowledge and skills are also documented and disseminated through application of S & T for the benefit of rural

communities.

As a part of Core Support activities, for the effective dissemination of

technologies MCRC identifies rural beneficiaries through network

partner NGOs functioning in various parts of Tamil Nadu. Rigorous

exercises have also been conducted to identify the villages as well as

grass root beneficiaries for wide dissemination of such technologies.

Training programmes, workshops, demonstrations, field trials,

publications and technical information bulletin have been offered to

the beneficiaries. Technology posters and technical manuals were

prepared and distributed to the beneficiaries during training programmes. Totally 13 villages were covered and 374

beneficiaries were trained on the technical, social and economic aspects of the technologies. A new mushroom shed

has been constructed recently at MCRC campus for carrying out R&D activities. A technology display and

dissemination unit is established and maintained in the campus to facilitate visitors, farmers, SHGs, research scholars

and students to obtain information regarding the importance of these technologies.

CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE IN RURAL DEVELOPMENT‐DST Core Support

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For over four decades MCRC has been actively engaged in providing information and awareness on variouslivelihood technologies developed / adopted by our centre. NGOs, Farmers, Stakeholders, Women SHGs andSchool students are provided expertise on rural development technologies through training programmes, spotstudies and workshops. In recognition of these efforts, the Council for Advancement of People’s Action and RuralTechnology (CAPART) under the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India recognized MCRC as aTechnology Resource Centre in 1995 and provides funds exclusively for dissemination of rural developmentprogrammes. MCRC continues to enjoy the status of a TRC and works with the support of CAPART as a Scienceand Technology NGO in bridging the divide between Science and Technology and the rural society.

Extension oriented projects

As part of extension activities, women SHGs are trained on the socio-economic advantages of the technologiesstandardized at MCRC. For effective dissemination of technologies, MCRC identifies rural beneficiaries throughnetwork partner NGOs functioning in various parts of Tamilnadu. Predominantly focus has been made to identify“Region Specific Technologies” for wider dissemination that makes use of local resources for livelihood interventions.A good number of villages and grass root level beneficiaries are identified for dissemination of technologies likeEco-friendly paper making, Vermicomposting, Clonal propagation, Mushroom cultivation, Solar stills, Naturalindigo and Charcoal briquetting through various outreach extension programmes.

1. Integrated biotechnological interventions for societal development

A multicentric approach was followed by MCRC in a SocietalDevelopment Project by involving networking NGOsfunctioning in various districts of Tamil Nadu and Pondicherryfor integrating four biotechnological interventions for societaldevelopment in selected villages. Four technologies viz.Vermicomposting, Mushroom cultivation, Charcoal briquettingand Clonal propagation were disseminated to 664 beneficiariesspread over 160 villages of four networking partner NGOs.As a part of the programme, Vermicompost pits, Mushroom cultivation sheds, Charcoal Briquetting units and Nethouses for Clonal propagation were established. Participation of project beneficiaries in social order was 0.5% OC,33% BC, 40% MBC, 24% SC, and 2.5% ST whereas women constituted 85% of the total beneficiary population.Over a period of 26 months, the beneficiaries have produced 1,66,400 kg of vermicompost, 12,480 kg of biomasscharcoal, 36,400 kg of mushrooms 46,430 saplings and 3104 kg of vegetables. Out of this, 42 % mushrooms, 68%vermicomposts, 50% biomass charcoal, and 40% clonally propagated seedlings were used by the beneficiaries fortheir own purpose and the rest were sold and the income was divided among them. The total worth of theproduce was Rs. 54,39,200/- of which the worth of various produce were; Vermicompost - Rs. 9,98,400/-,Biomass Charcoal - Rs. 7,48,800/-, Mushroom - Rs. 29,12,000/- and Clonal propagation - Rs. 7,80,000/-

17

EXTENSION ACTIVITIES


2. Popularizing eco-friendly biotechnological S & T intervention for school waste recyclingand stimulating scientific temper among school children

Through this project, model Functional Units and Effective EducationSystems were established in ten schools of Chennai, for teaching schoolchildren on waste recycling, solid waste disposal, propagation of plants,eco-gardening, water conservation methods and solar appliances as a meansof protecting their surroundings from environment pollution by utilizingthe natural resources. The participating schools are acting as nodal unitswhere the teachers and students are provided with necessary facilities toimpart hands-on-training activities. They were also provided with requiredinputs on biotechnology oriented interventions and environment related issues. Most importantly, the infrastructurecreated in the schools is being used for training and production activities. Children were trained to produce usefuleco-friendly paper and paper products by recycling of class room wastes that are generated in the school. Similarly,by utilising the infrastructure, children were also trained on production of vermicompost, micro propagation ofmedicinal, tree and ornamental plants and to create eco-gardens in the schools. Single effect solar still and simplewater purifiers were also housed in the schools. Educational kits consisting of posters, CDs and manuals are beingdistributed to school children as part of the programme to stimulate scientific and technological temper amongteachers and students and to involve children in hands-on training for skill and capacity development. Relevantactivities are being undertaken to establish “NCSTC Science & Technology Network Forum” to popularize theactivities among the school authorities and student communities.

3. Establishment of Regional Resource Agency for DNA (DBT Natural Resource Awareness) Club

This ongoing project sponsored by National BioresourcesDevelopment Board, Department of Biotechnology, Government ofIndia is mainly aimed to create awareness on “Importance, Identificationand Management of Bioresources & Biodiversity” among the schoolchildren. 500 school children are participating in the programme from10 schools of Puducherry and Karaikal. Programmes were conductedto inculcate awareness among the school children on identification,importance, management and conservation of bioresources. So far,three Summer Vacation Training Programmes were organized as part

of the programme. The DNA club also organized 30 interactive programmes in all the schools to make studentsunderstand the values, importance, management and conservation of bioresources. Twenty lectures were organisedand students were made to interact with eminent Scientists / Resource persons so as to inculcate among them thevalue of the biological resources of the country and to make them think seriously over the issue. Educational tripswere organised to bio-diversity spots and various educational institutions, and children were made to conduct fieldexperiments and field trials.

18


Publications

1. Stalin V, Perumal K, Stanley Abraham L and Kalaichelvan P T (2010). Screening and production of subtilin

from Bacillus subtilis isolated from nutrient-rich organic and biodynamic manures. The IUP Journal of LifeSciences. Vol. 4(4): 11 pages.

2. Perumal K and Sagarika Devi (2010). Ecofriendly textile colourants from microbes and optimization and

production of ecofrendly dyes/pigments from Curvularia lunata, Alternaria alternata, Sclerotonia sp., Pestolatiasp. and Phoma foevata. 14th International Fungi & Fibre Symposium / Turkey Red Journal. Vol. 1(1).

3. Krishnika A and Jeeji Bai (2010). Microalgal culture as enrichment feed for aquaculture industry. SeaweedResearch Utilization. Vol. 32(1&2): 103-110.

4. Jayashree S, Lalitha R, Vadivukkarasi P, Kato Y and Seshadri S (2010). Cellulase production by pink pigmented

facultative methylotrophic strains (PPFMs). Applied Biochemistry Biotechnology. (Ref. No: DOI 10.1007/s12010-

011-9166-6).

5. Jayashree S, Vadivukkarasi P, Anand K, Kato Y and Seshadri S (2010). Evaluation of pink pigmented facultative

Methylotrophic bacteria (PPFM) for phosphate solubilization. Accepted in Archeives of Microbiology.

6. Mr. V. Chakrapani (July 2010). Establishment of social entrepreneurship through CSR initiative & rural

technological interventions – trends, issues, opportunities, challenges and sustainability factors. In:

Corporate Social Responsibility in the Globalised Scenario. pp. 37-46.

7. Perumal K, Sagarika Devi, Kannadasan K, Chandrasekarenthiran S and Karuppuraj V (2010). Eco – Friendly

textile dyes from bacteria, microfungi and mushrooms. TNPCB Newsletter. Vol. 5(2): 5-8.

Gene Sequence Submission

1. Accession no: GU980952. Methylobacterium sp. MSF32 methanol dehydrogenase alpha subunit (mxaF) gene,

partial cds. Jayashree S., Vadivukkarasi P. and Seshadri S.

2. Accession no: GU980953. Methylobacterium sp. MNW60 methanol dehydrogenase alpha subunit (mxaF) gene,


3. Accession no: GU980954. Methylobacterium sp. MSF46 methanol dehydrogenase alpha subunit (mxaF) gene,


PUBLICATIONS/PATENTS/TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGIES

19


4. Accession no: HM756169. Bacterium MSF 40 16S ribosomal RNA gene, partial sequence. Jayashree S.,

Vadivukkarasi P. and Seshadri S.

5. Accession no: HQ585892. Methylobacterium sp. MSF 46 16S ribosomal RNA gene, partial sequence. Jayashree

S., Vadivukkarasi P. and Seshadri S.

6. Accession no: HQ665015. Methylobacterium sp. MNW 60 16S ribosomal RNA gene, partial sequence. Jayashree

S., Vadivukkarasi P. and Seshadri S.

7. Accession no: HQ599844. Bacillus pumilus strain MCAS8 16S ribosomal RNA gene, partial sequence. Jayakumar

R., Jayashree S., Annapurna B. and Seshadri S.

Patents

Sl. Title Date Inventors Applicants Status as

No of filing on 31.03.2011

1. An improved process for 30.12.2005 Dr. K.Perumal Abstractthe artificial cultivation of Ms. E. Sumathi MCRC and DBT published inGanoderma lucidum Mr. S. Chandra sek patent journalbasidiomata (fruit body) arenthiran and examination

received

2. Innovative process for the MCRC, IIT(M),determination of soil 17.3.2008 Dr. Perumal EID Parry Abstractnutrient properties through Mr. Deepak Khemani (India)Ltd. published inimage processing of Mr. Sukhendu Das (Sugar bioproduct patent journalchromatograms and case division), and waiting forbase reasoning Coromandel examination

International,Parry AgroIndustries Ltd.

3. Dye from basidiomata ofGanoderma lucidum and a 16.9.2008 Dr.K. Perumal MCRC and DBT -do-method of dye application Ms.E. Sumathiin textile yarns and fabrics

20


Transfer of Technology

Technologies developed at MCRC falls under two categories based on their utility and the nature of beneficiariesintended. While a few technologies have been developed and disseminated for providing sustainable livelihoodopportunities for the rural masses, fine tuning of laboratory scale experiments have also led to improved technologiesfor effective development of products and processes.

Technologies at laboratory /pilot scale

1. Alternative Analytical Technology (AAT) for soilnutrient analysis

2. Eco-friendly natural indigo dye extraction fromplants

3. Eco-friendly natural dyes from micro & macrofungi

4. Indigenous technology on organic cultivation ofReishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

5. Ethanol production from lignocellulosic wastes6. Extracellulose polysaccharides from microbes7. Isolation and formulation of Bacillus thuringiensis,

a bio-control agent8. Technology for the production of activated

carbon from different agro-wastes9. Technology for fabrication of cost effective

water filter10. Cost effective production of bio-fertilizer and

bio-control agents11. Production and formulation of organic liquid

fertilizer12. Development of cost effective mass culture

technique of Brachionus plicatilis13. Production of protease by microorganisms14. Bio hydrogen as a fuel

An Indigenous Technology on Organic Cultivation of Reishi

(Ganoderma lucidum) was transferred to N H Biotechnologies Pvt.Ltd, T. Nagar, Chennai in a meeting held at MCRC Head Office on 24th

March, 2011. N H Biotechnologies is setting up the production unit (27tons/year in 1st phase) at Battalagunda, Dindigul district. Ganoderma isbelieved to be the oldest mushroom used in medicine and is regarded ashaving special pharmaceutical and nutraceutical properties. Scientists ofMCRC have achieved a breakthrough by successfully growing andharvesting fruit bodies of Ganoderma lucidum on lignocellulosic agrowastewithin 35-40 days. With faster growing cycle and lower cost input, it is estimated that through this technology theproduction cost of this mushroom will be in the order of Rs. 200/Kg.

Technologies for livelihood1. Biomass charcoal briquetting technology for

alternative energy production and incomegeneration

2. Eco-friendly natural indigo dye extraction fromplants

3. Technology for recycling of waste paper intohandmade paper

4. Edible mushroom cultivation using differentagricultural wastes

5. Solid waste management through productionof vermicompost

6. Technology for organic moringa cultivation7. Organic cultivation of Gymnema8. HDPE catamaran

9. Technology for stem cured mud blockproduction using fly ash

10. Cost effective fabrication of high humiditychamber for clonal propagation of plants

11. Biogas production in rural areas12. Solar dryer13. Amla value addition

21


MCRC organized a seminar and Dr. C.V. Seshadri Memorial Lecture

on 4th December, 2010 at Ramanujam Auditorium, Institute of

Mathematical Sciences, C.I.T. Campus, Taramani, Chennai. Nearly

300 participants attended the programme including more than 150

representatives of different NGOs from various districts of Tamil

Nadu. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Anil P. Joshi, Dr. G.

Nammalvar, Shri A.V. Balasubramanian and Dr. Radha Gopalan,

followed by a welcome address delivered by Shri. M.V. Murugappan,

Chairman, MCRC.

The seminar on “Sustainable Livelihood Interventions for Rural

Areas and Weaker Sections – New Paradigms” included four

sessions with different themes focusing mainly on rural livelihood

promotion and various means of income generation. The speakers

shared their experiences with the audience on how sustainable

development takes place at the grass root level to benefit the people

in rural areas and the local economy.

The first session, which included a lecture by Dr. Anil P. Joshi Founder,

HESCO, Uttarkhand, on “Approach to Rural Development –

Economy Decentralization” and further discussion, was chaired by

Dr. Radha Gopalan, Rishi Valley Education Centre, Andhra Pradesh.

He discussed about the possibilities of creating a Resource

Independent Community in the rural areas of the country where

human, natural resources are tapped in an integrated manner with

due respect to local and outside community needs, which would be

a decentralized approach of development that is bound to be sustainable.

The next session chaired by Shri A.V. Balasubramaniam, Director,

CIKS, Chennai, was on “Income Raising Organic Agriculture”, and

included a lecture by Dr. G. Nammalvar, Organic Agriculturist and

President, Vanagam, Karur. During the interaction with the audience,

he shared his views on organic farming and referred to it as a long

lasting form of Agriculture which has the capacity to boost the

farmers’ livelihood by helping them to save their expense and energy.

Dr. C.V. SESHADRI MEMORIAL LECTURE

22


The lecture delivered by Dr. S. Anandalakshmy, President, SWRC

(Barefoot College), Tilonia, Rajasthan, on “Barefoot College – A

Living Experiment” formed the third session, and had Dr. M.

Ravindran, Former Director, NIOT, Chennai, as the chair person.

Sharing her experiences in the Barefoot College, Dr. S. Anandalakshmy

discussed mainly about empowering the poor by developing their

capacity and skills so that they become competent decision makers

with the confidence to act on their own choices.

Dr. Claude Alvarez, Director, Goa Foundation, Organic Farming

Association of India, Goa, discussed on “Social Engineering and

Livelihoods: Need for Creative Dialogues” in the final session chaired

by Dr. G. Venkataramani, Agricultural Communication and

Knowledge Sharing Expert, Chennai. Focusing on the ideas and

technological innovations of the Former Director, Dr. C. V. Seshadri,

and the impact of his work on the livelihoods of village folks, he

reminded us that fairly little learning has emerged among the post-

CVS generation about this impact of his work.

The evening session began with Dr Anil Gupta, National Innovation

Foundation, IIM, Ahmedabad releasing a write-up prepared by Dr.

Claude Alvarez on Dr. C. V. Seshadri, in the Wikipedia. This was

followed by Dr. C. V. Seshadri Memorial Lecture on “Innovation,

Investment, Enterprise: Generating Sustainable Livelihood at

Grassroots through Honey Bee Philosophy” delivered by Prof.

Dr. Anil Gupta who firmly believes “Poor are not just customers-

they can also be providers of knowledge, innovation and ideas”.

According to him it is the failure to nurture grassroots creative potential that has fuelled so much of social anomie,

and he hoped “May peace through inclusive, empathetic innovations and participatory institutions be the next

mantra of development”.

23


PROGRAMMES ORGANIZED

Training Programmes / Workshops / Seminars / Meetings Organized

Sl. No. Details Period

1Training programme on improving communication 17.03.2010 toskills for Research Staff & Scholars at MCRC campus 26.05.2010

Vacation Training Programme on “Bioresources” for 25.04.20102 school children from Puducherry and Karaikal at to

Shri M.V. Arunachalam Training Centre, Vadakkadambadi 19.05.2010

3 Training on AAT Technology to staff of AAT Lab, 20.05.2010 toEID Parry (India) Ltd., Nellikuppam 22.05.2010

4 “Mushroom cultivation” and distribution of spawnto women in Thiruvidanthai village

09.06.2010

5 Three days AAT training programme to field assistants 05 .08.2010 tofrom EID Parry lab in Pudukottai and Nellikuppam 07.08.2010

6 Training programme on different technologies toSHGs in Orchid Trust

11.08.2010

Training programme on “Preparation of Amla juice”7 at Shri. M.V. Arunachalam Technology Resource Centre, 31.08.2010

Vadakadampadi

Training programme on DST Core Support technologies 12.10.20108 (Hand made paper making & Mushroom cultivation) to

to SHGs with support of Bharathi Women Development Centre 13.10.2010

Training on Handmade paper production to 29.12.20109 Self Help Groups (SHGs) in Siruvapuri village, to

Thiruvallur District 30.12.2010

Training programme for school children on10 eco-friendly technologies during visit to 17.01.2011

Padma Seshadri BalabhavanSchool, Chennai

24


Training programmes / Exhibition / Seminars / Conferences / Workshops Attended

Sl. Name ofDetails Venue PeriodNo. the person

Science City,

1Mr. V. Chakrapani,

Climate Change-BiodiversityPeriyar Science 03.02.2010 to

Programme Co-ordinator and Technology 07.02.2010Centre campus

2Ms. J. Sivasankari,

Biodynamic farmingSenbaganur, 15.03.2010 to

Programme Officer Kodaikanal 23.03.2010

Capacity building forIndian Institute

3Mr. V. Chakrapani, Scouting, Documentation,

of Management,07.06.2010 to

Programme Co-ordinator Dissemination and IncubationAhmedabad

08.06.2010of Grass-Root Innovations

Presented a paper entitledDr. K. Perumal, “Ecofriendly textile colourants Gysinge, 06.09.2010

4 Dy. Director from microbes” in Sweden to(R & D and Admin) International Fungi & Fibre 12.09.2010

Symposium

Presented a paper entitled“Optimization and productionof ecofrendly dyes/pigmentsfrom Curvularia lunata,

5Ms. Sagarika Devi,

Alternaria alternata,Gysinge, 06.09.2010 to

Research ScholarSclerotonia sp., Pestolatia sp.

Sweden 12.09.2010

and Phoma foevata” inInternational Fungi &Fibre Symposium

International workshop on

6 Mr. V. Balamurugan,“Promotion of the One Village 06.12.2010

Social ScientistOne Product Model (OVOP) Lao, Vietnam toas a regional and rural 10.12.2010development strategy”

7Mr. V. Chakrapani, 18th National Children

Vels University27.12.2010 to

Programme Co-ordinator Science Congress 30.12.2010

25


Sl. Name ofDetails Venue PeriodNo. the person

National level Conference on“Recent Advances inMycological Research” . CAS in Botany, 08.02.2011

8Mr. V. Karuppuraj,

Presented poster on University of toResearch Associate“Cultivation of Calocybe Madras, Chennai 09.02.2011indica on locally availableagricultural residues”

National level Conference on“Recent Advances in

9Ms. Sagarika Devi,

Mycological Research”. CAS in Botany, 08.02.2011Research ScholarPresented poster on University of to“Optimization and production Madras, Chennai 09.02.2011of eco-friendly dyes fromPhoma foveata”

26

Special Lectures Organized

Sl. Name of the lecturer Title Venue DateNo.

Dr. M.P. Guruswamy (MPG),Popular Gandhian Economist

1 & Former Principal, How to Review a BookDr. C. V. Seshadri

30.06.2010Adhithanar College,

Auditorium.

Thiruchendur

Mr. Michael Danino,River Saraswathy –Convener, InternationalThe ancient river and - do - 13.08.20102

Forum for India’s Heritage,its ecological impactCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Mr. P. Komathinayagam,"Étrha¤âš cŸs

3 Leading Farmer, beU¡fofis ÉtrhÆfns- do - 02.09.2010

Puliyangudij§fŸ Ka‰áfshš Éilfhzyh«"

Dr. Yogesh S. Shouche,Who we are and where

4Microbial Culture Collection

we come from: - do - 14.09.2010(DBT), National Centre forA microbiologist’s perspectiveCell Science, Pune, India

Dr. Kumaravelu, IFS,Interactive session on

5 State Planning Commission“Technology Transfer for Rural

- do - 12.10.2010of Tamil Nadu

Development” and lecture on“Nature is Our Future”


Lectures Delivered / Radio Talks

Sl. Name ofTitle Venue DateNo. the person

. Dr. K. Perumal,1 Deputy Director Patenting a product/process

Women’s Christian20.08.2010

(R&D and Admin)College, Chennai

2. Dr. S. Seshadri, Radio talk on "fl‰gháfS« All India Radio,

Director (R&D) mj‹ ga‹fS«" Chennai15.09.2010

. Dr. K. Perumal,Alternative Analytical Technology Sacred Heart

3 Deputy Directorin soil nutrient analysis and BD College,

(R&D and Admin)Quality testing, International Shenbaanur,

24.09.2010

status of BD agriculture Kodaikkanal

. Mr. V. Balamurugan,Biodiversity, Organic farming

Social Scientist &and Mushroom cultivation-

4Ms. J. Sivasankari,

to the women SHGs with Ambattur, Chennai 18.03.2011

Programme Officerthe help of New Life SocialWelfare Centre

5Dr. S. Seshadri, An interview on “Recent All Indian Radio,Director (R&D) Researches in the Institute” Chennai

28.03.2011

27


28

Meetings Organized

Sl. Particulars Participants Venue DateNo.

Mr. M. V. Murugappan, Chairman,Dr. S. Seshadri, Director (R&D),

23.04.20101Project Review Meeting

Dr. P. Sugumaran Prog. Officer,Parry Guest House,

for ONGC ProjectMs. R. Jayashree, JRF &

Chennai

Ms. E. Priya, Technical Assistant

2Research Advisory Research Advisory Board

MCRC19.06.2010 to

Board meeting members and MCRC Staff 30.06.2010

Research Advisory Board3

Corporate Socialmembers, MCRC Scientists,Responsibility (CSR)Principal Investigators &

MCRC 30.06.2010

Programme Co-ordinator

Dr. K. Perumal, Deputy Director State Training(R&D and Admn.) and Centre, Directorate4 Orientation meetingMr. V. Chakrapani, Programme of School Education,

16.07.2010

co-ordinator Puducherry

Dr. B.S. Sonde(Ex Vice Chancellor, Goa University),

5Chromatogram Phase II Shri S.K. Manocha, Dr. C.V. Seshadri

22.10.2010Project Review Meeting Dr. Rajeev Sharma, DST, Auditorium, MCRCDr. Vincent, Secretary,TNSCST &Dr. Samiyappan,Director (CPMB), TNAU

Research Advisory BoardResearch Advisory

6Meeting

Board members and MCRC 08.12.2010MCRC Staff

On the spot AssessmentMCRC staff and DST expert Dr. C.V. Seshadri 09.02.2011 to7 for “DST-Core Supportteam from New Delhi Auditorium 10.02.2011Programme”


Important Visitors to MCRC

Sl. No. Details Purpose Date

Mr. Muruganantham, “Establishment of Technology Part” in1 Project Officer, NIRD incorporating rural technologies 12.02.2010

N.I.R.D, Hyderabad of MCRC

2Ms. Tara Shyam, International RiceResearch Institute Fund, Singapore

Campus Visit 15.02.2010

Dr. Venkataramani, Consultant, Demonstration conducted on ecofriendly3 Sustainable Agriculture and Rural paper production and consumption 25.06.2010

Development of products

4Mr. Manu Seshadri, Advocate, Recent technologies developedNew Delhi at MCRC

29.06.2010

Dr. Kasi Viswanathan,

5Sr. General Manager and

Biomass charcoal briquetting technology 3.08.2010Dr. Sridhar, General Manager (R&D),Godrej Saralee

Mr. M. Subramanian,

6Deputy Director for Agriculture, Natural indigo plant cultivation inTamil Nadu Watershed Government waste land

3.08.2010

Development Department, Chennai

Dr. Seema Bhadauria, Associate Professor7 and Dr. B.S. Kushwah, HOD & Professor,

Campus visit and to know about5.08.2010

Raja Balwant Singh College, AgraAAT technology

8Dr. Shobhana Bhaskaran, Workshop entitled “Preparation of amla juice”DST, New Delhi at Vadakadambadi, Mahabalipuram.

31.08.2010

9Mr. Mohamed Haleem Khan, TRC visit and Interaction with ScientistsDirector General, CAPART, New Delhi and Core Group of MCRC

30.09.2010

10 Maram Thangasamy, Pudukottai Interaction with the scientists 10.11.2010

11 Ms. Mieke and Ms. Gred, Belgium Campus visit 19.11.2010

12Mr. Anand Dharwar,Grama Nirmana, Bangalore

Campus visit 25.11.2010

29


30

Dr. Radha D. Kale, Director,

13Centre for Scientific Research and Interaction with the scientists

10.12.2010Advanced Learning, Mount Carmel and scholarsCollege (Autonomous), Bangalore

14Dr. Jagdish Sunkad and a team of To know about AAT and

04.01.2011scientists, CUMI, Bangalore other technologies

15 Ms. Caroline, Sweden To learn about AAT Technology 01.02.2011

Norwegian delegationDr. Arne M. Bredesen, Professor,Dr. May-Britt Hagg, Professor,Dr. Harald Gether, Head ofProgramme on InnovationEnvironmental Change, Interacted with MCRC scientists for

16 Dr. Kari Melby, Professor possible collaboration on selected 08.02.2011(Pro-Rector of Research), energy research programmesDr. Berit Kjeldstad, Professor(Pro-Rector Education and QualityLearning),Dr. Gnut H. Sorensen,Dr. Trono Kvilhauk,Dr. Ninasinbre,Dr. Vivian Alagesan andDr. Britt Audesse

Mr. Israth from Perspecte,

17Chennai and Mr. Maheswaran, To discuss about the softwareCoromandel International Limited enhancement in soil tool

18.02.2011

(CIL)

18Dr. Vijay Subbiah, Senior Scientist, For discussion on biomass charcoalMSSRF, Chennai briquetting technology

09.03.2011

19 Dr. David Sanjay, ChennaiTo discuss on biomass charcoalbriquetting technology

22.03.2011

Mr. Owen Jenkins, Counsellor,Climate Change & Energy,Department for InternationalDevelopment (DFID), British To familiarise with MCRC

20 High Commission, New Delhi activities related to energy and 28.03.2011and Vidya Soundararajan, Senior other ongoing research activitiesRegional Advisor, Climate Change& Energy, British Deputy HighCommission, Chennai

Sl. No. Details Purpose Date

Important Visitors to MCRC (Contd...)


Important Events

1. 64th Independence Day was celebrated at MCRC, for which Dr. S. Balaji, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forest,Government of Tamil Nadu was the chief guest. Mr. M. V. Murugappan, Chairman, released the MCRCAnnual Report 2009-2010 by handing over a copy to Dr. S. Balaji.

2. Ayudha Pooja was celebrated on 15.10.2010.

3. A three days’ educational tour programme was arranged by MCRC to Valparai from 28.10.2010 to 01.11.2010.

The participants visited places like Vellamalai Tunnel, Akkamalai Grass Hills, Murugali Tea Estate & MayuraTea Factory, Top slip (Anamali Tiger Reserve Centre)

4. A Mobile Soil Testing Laboratory with all necessary requirements for AAT technology has been equipped andinaugurated on 20.12.2010. This was fabricated to create awareness about the importance of soil testing andfor popularizing the AAT technology among the farmers. The inauguration of Mobile Soil Testing Laboratorywas conducted at CSIR campus in the presence of Dr. D. B. Singh, Chairman, DST, New Delhi, Dr. RajeevSharma, Scientist, DST, New Delhi, Mr. M. V. Murugappan, Chairman, MCRC, Mr. Mahatvaraj, MemberSecretary, MCRC, Dr. K. Perumal, Deputy Director(R&D and Admin), Dr. S. Seshadri, Director, all MCRCstaff members and farmers from Vadakadambadi. An awareness programme about the importance of soiltesting was also organized to 25 farmers from Vadakadambadi village.

5. Republic Day was celebrated at MCRC on 26.01.2011. Dr. K. Perumal, Dy. Director (R&D and Admin)hoisted the flag and Dr. S. Seshadri, Director (R & D) delivered the Republic day message.

Ph. D Theses

Awarded

1. Mr. R. Karthic defended his Ph.D. thesis on 14th February, 2011 at Dr. C. V. Seshadri auditorium, MCRC forthe thesis entitled “In vitro and ex vitro studies on Gymnema sylvestre R. Br: A Threatened Anti-Diabetic Plant”under the guidance of Dr. S. Seshadri.

Submitted

1. Mrs. S. Sivasankari, submitted her Ph.D thesis entitled “Ethanol Production From Biomass: Isolation,Characterization and Evaluation of Cellulolytic and Ethanologenic Microbes on Starch and LignocellulosicSubstrates” to the University of Madras on 07.06.2010 under the guidance of Dr. S. Seshadri.

2. Mr. S. Chandra Sekarenthiran, submitted his Ph. D thesis entitled “Production, Characterization of Pigmentfrom Selected Basidiomycetes - Pycnoporus sanguineus L. ex. Fries and Coriolus versicolor L) Quelet. And Applicationof Pigment in Textile Dyeing” to the University of Madras on 11.10.2010 under the guidance of Dr. KPerumal.

3. Mr. L. Stanley Abraham submitted his Ph.D thesis entitled “Degradation of azo dyes in textile dyeing effluentby bacterial consortia” to the University of Madras on 19.10.2010 under the guidance of Dr. K Perumal.

4. Mr. J. Arunkumar, Young Scientist submitted his Ph.D thesis entitled “Utilization of alternative herbs andmaterials for the production of biodynamic manures and their efficacy on growth of selected plants” to theUniversity of Madras on 31.12.2010 under the guidance of Dr. K Perumal.

Prizes

1. Ms. D. Mahadevi, Accounts Assistant, MCRC won the First Prize in "Shot Put" competition (Women category)organized by Murugappa Tournament committee and received a certificate from Mr. M.V. Murugappan on26-03-2011.

31


32

Short term projects

Students from International Institutions

Name of the student : Mr. Arunachalam Natesan

Name of the institute : Westlake High School, Austin, Texas

Programme : Summer training

Place of training : Shri AMM Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre

Programme Period Work Description

Volunteer - July 2009 (5 weeks) Mr. Arunachalam Natesan of Westlake High School, Austin, Texas

Summer Intern & joined us as a summer intern in July 2009 and underwent training

July 2010 (5 weeks) for 5 weeks as short term trainee at the Shri AMM Murugappa

Chettiar Research Centre, under the direction of Dr. S. Seshadri.

He came back as a summer research assistant in July 2010 and

spent an additional five weeks. Mr. Arunachalam Natesan devoted

45 hours of work per week during his two stays on the campus.

Mr. Arunachalam Natesan’s first training program involved learning

on assessing the water quality where he has got trained in water

quality analysis by involving himself in analyzing the different water

samples for physico-chemical and biological parameters including

pH, EC, temperature, dissolved oxygen, hardness, chloride,

ammoniacal nitrogen, sulphate, solids (TS,TDS,TSS) &

microbiological parameters such as total bacterial counts and

coliforms. Further, during the second tenure he has assisted the

project staff working on fabrication of simple water filters using

sand, pebbles and activated carbon and testing the filtered water

for the above parameters. Mr. Arunachalam Natesan has also

involved himself in bibliographical research by reviewing the latest

literature on low cost water filtration and added value to the process.


33

Students from other institutes/colleges/universities (National)

Sl. Name of University / Title SupervisorNo. the student college

1 Savitha Josephina SASTRA, Production of pigments andSamson Thanjavur essential oil from offered flowers Dr. K. Perumal

2 P. Sagaai Vilma SASTRA, Screening of microbes as aThanjavur biological source of phyto

hormone and its efficacy overdifferent test systems

3 M. Gayathri A.V.C. College Biological production of(Autonomous), brassinosteroids and its efficacy Dr. Anitha NarenMayiladuthurai on different test systems

4 R. Sandhiya Dhanalakshmi Biological production ofSrinivasan College brassinosteroids and itsof Arts and Science influence on germination(W), Perambalur of seeds

5 G. Vivekanandan Hindustan College Mass culture potential and lipidof Arts & Science, productivity of a freshwaterAvinashi Road, microalga, Scenedesmus sp.Coimbatore for biodiesel production

6 Nidhish Krishna Kumararani Meena Formulation of seaweed liquidMuthiah College fertilizers (SLF) and theirof Arts & Science, effect on seed germination Dr. Beena NairAdyar, Chennai

7 M. Sri Devi St. Peter Engineering Potentials of two freshwaterCollege,Avadi, microalgae for antibacterialChennai activity and improved lipid

production

8 A. Arunadevi School of Life Screening of anti-fungicidesSciences, from natural sources for theBharathidasan remedy of oral candidiasisUniversity,Tiruchirappalli

9 P. Tamil Selvi Shri Sakthi Kailash Biological control of the rice Dr. N. UnnamalaiWomen’s College, bacterial leaf blight pathogen,Salem Xanthomonas oryzae

pv oryzae, and growthpromotional activity of riceby Pseudomonas


34

10 J. Rajalakshmi A.V.C. College Evaluation of different ligno(Autonomous), cellulosic wastes and vermicompost Dr. P. SugumaranMayiladuthurai for methane production

11 R. Lakshmi School of Biosciences, Marine microalgae as aSRM University, potential sourceRamapuram, Chennai for biodiesel production

12 P.B. Bhanu Priya P.B. School of Screening of marine microBiosciences, algae for nutritional valueSRM University, and their antibacterial activity Dr. A. KrishnikaRamapuram, Chennai

13 E. Elango Venmal St. Peter Engineering Screening of marine microalgaeCollege, for antibacterial activity,Avadi, Chennai polyunsaturated fatty acid and

enhancement of lipid production

14 M. Humyra Begam St. Peter Engineering Plant growth promoting activitiesCollege, and biocontrol efficacy of phosphateAvadi, Chennai solubilising microorganisms

cultivated in cost effective medium

15 Revathi Veeradevan St. Peter Engineering Plant growth promoting activities andCollege,Avadi, biocontrol efficacy of Trichoderma Dr. HariChennai viride and Trichoderma harzianum Muraleedharan

cultivated in cost effective medium

16 G. Sulakshana St. Peter Engineering Screening of nitrogen fixingCollege,Avadi, microorganisms (Azotobacter sp.Chennai and Rhizobium sp.) from

rhizosphere soil and root nodulesand development of cost effectivemedium for their growth

17 S. Venkatesh Loyola College,Chennai

18 Enoch Sargunaraj Loyola College, Mushroom technology and Dr. HariChennai biofertilizer production Muraleedharan &

19 Sathish Kumar Loyola College,Ms. J. Sivasankari

Chennai

20 D. Shiva Sabarinathan Loyola College,Chennai

Sl. Name of University / Title SupervisorNo. the student college


35

PHOTO GALLERY

Training Programmes / Workshops / Seminars / Meetings Organized

Training on AAT Mushroom cultivation Training on Clonal propagation

Training programmes / Exhibitions / Seminars / Conferences / Workshops Attended

Mobile soil testing laboratory atScience city exhibition

Ms. Mahadevi receiving thefirst prize for "Shot Put"

competition

Poster presentation at theUniversity of Madras,

Chennai

Products display atScience City Festival

Paper presentation in anInternational seminar at Laos,

Vietnam

Paper presentation during anInternational symposium at

Gysinge, Sweden


36

Special Lectures Organized

“Self sustainability in organicfarming” - Mr. P. Komathinayagam

“Who we are and where we comefrom: A microbiologist’s perspective” -

Dr. Yogesh S. Shouche

Meetings organized

Project Review Meeting onChromatogram Phase II Project

DST Core Support evaluation –By DST expert team

Research Advisory Board meeting

“River Saraswathy – The ancientriver and its ecological impact” -

Mr. Michael Danino

“Nature is Our Future”- Dr. Kumaravelu, IFS


37

Visitors to MCRC

Dr. Radha D. Kale interactingwith MCRC scientists

Norwegian delegates visiting theMCRC campus

Mr. Owen Jenkins in discussionwith MCRC scientists

Important events

MCRC staff during theeducational tour

Nirar dam at Valparai

Republic Day celebration

Releasing the Annual Report 2009-10 during Independence day

celebration Dr. Balaji

Inauguration of mobile soil testinglaboratory by Dr. D.B. Singh


38

I. Manpower

Organizational Structure

MCRC has a group of dedicated scientists and technicians forming the core team and a good number of scientific

staff to take care of all research and extension activities including various sponsored projects. The entire team is

inter-disciplinary in nature and includes botanists, bio-technologists, agriculturists, algologists, biochemists,

microbiologists, social scientists and engineers duly supported by an administrative staff and experienced laboratory

and workshop technicians. The staff strength is sixty at present.

RESOURCES


39

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Dr. S. Seshadri, Ph.D, Director (R&D)

Dr. K. Perumal, Ph.D, Deputy Director (R&D and Administration)

Dr. Beena B. Nair, Ph.D, Scientist (Algology)

Dr. Anitha Naren, Ph.D, Scientist (Agriculture)

Dr. Hari Muraleedharan, Ph.D, Sr. Prog. Officer, DST Core Support

Dr. P. Sugumaran, Ph.D, Programme Officer, DST Core Support

Ms. J. Sivasankari, M.Sc, Programme Officer, DST Core Support

Mr. M. Dhiwahar, B.E, Engineer, DST Core Support

Dr. N. Unnamalai, Ph.D, Woman Scientist

Dr. A. Krishnika, Ph.D, Young Scientist

Mr. J. Arunkumar, M.Phil, Young Scientist

Mrs. S. Sivasankari, M.Sc, Young Scientist

Dr. K. Kannathasan, Ph.D., Research Associate

Dr. V. Shashirekha, Ph.D., Research Associate

Mr. V. Karuppuraj, M. Sc., Research Associate

ADVISOR

Dr. N. Jeeji Bai, Ph.D

EXTENSION

Mr. V. Chakrapani, M.A., M.S.W., M.B.A., Programme Co-ordinator

Mr. V. Balamurugan, M. Phil., Social Scientist, DST Core Support

INSTRUMENTATION

Mr. P.S. Kumar, X Std

LIBRARY

Mr. B. Sivakumaran, M.L.I.Sc., M. Phil., Librarian


40

WORKSHOP

Mr. L. Doss

Mr. E. Dhamodarano

SECURITY

Mr. R. Mohana Rangan

Mr. P. Govindan

Mr. P. M. Kannan

Mr. M. Kalaimani

TECHNICAL ASSISTANTS

Ms. E. Priya, M.Sc.

Ms. S. Parameswari, M.Sc.

Mr. M. Sivakumar, B.Tech.

Mr. R. Karthikeyan, Diploma

Mr. M.Thangamani, B.Sc.

Mr. M. Prasath, B.Com.

Mr. V. Krishna Kondragunta, M.Sc.

Mr. B. Karthik, M.Sc.

Mrs. R.B. Malleswari, M.Sc.

Ms. S. Mona, M.Sc.

Mr. M. P. Sudhakar, M.Sc.

Mr. V. Kannan, XII Std

Mrs. Girija Kumar, X Std

Mr. B. Therin, X Std

Mr. S. Ram Mohan, X Std

ADMINISTRATION

Dr. K. Perumal, Ph.D, Deputy Director (R&D and Administration)

Mr. M. Balasubramanian, M.A, PGDPM, PGDMM, DLL., Administrative Manager

Mr. P. Alagarsamy, B.Com., Accounts Officer

Mrs. R. Anitha, B.Sc., B.Ed, Executive Assistant

Ms. D. Mahadevi, B.Com., D.Co-op., Accounts Assistant

Mr. A. Karuppan Chetty, B.Sc, Sr. Assistant (Purchase)

Mr. K. Anbalagan, Attender cum Driver

Mr. G. Sampath, Gardener

Mr. L. Rajagopal, Gardener

RESEARCH SCHOLARS / PROJECT STAFF

Ms. S. Ananthi, M.Sc.

Ms. B. Annapurna, M.Sc.

Mr. S. Chandrasekarenthiran, M.Sc.

Mr. R. Jayakumar, M.Sc., M.Phil.

Mrs. R. Jayashree, M.Sc., M.Phil.

Mrs. S. Jayashree, M.Sc.

Ms. S. Jeeva Rekha, M.Sc.

Mr. R. Karthic, M.Sc., M.Phil.

Mr. K. Murugesan, M.Sc.

Ms. M. Ponsugumari, M.Sc.

Mr. P. Ravichandran, M.Sc., M.Phil.

Mr. T.A. Sambanda Moorthy, M.Sc.

Ms. Sagarika Devi, M.Sc.

Mr. M. Sudurshan, M.Sc., M.Ed., M.Phil.

Ms. K. Sindhu, M.Sc.

Mrs. P. Vadivukkarasai M.Sc., M.Phil.


II. Infrastructure

The centre, situated in a five acre campus at Taramani, is well equipped

with all the necessary requirements for carrying out its research activities

in the areas of Agriculture, Life Science & Engineering. The total

built up area (17,000 sq.ft.) includes laboratories, administrative office

and other facilities such as scholars room, library, auditorium,

refreshment room, workshop, tissue culture lab, Algal laboratory,

Fungal Pigment laboratory, Soil testing laboratory and DST Core

Support laboratory. MCRC extends computer facilities with

broadband internet access to all the scholars. Field trials are conducted in the campus at Vadakadambadi near

Mahabalipuram, about 60 km from the main campus.

Instrument facility

High Performance Liquid Chromotograph (Shimadzu, Japan-2.nos), CEPA High

speed centrifuge with clarifying bowl, Germany, Gas Chromatograph (Chemito

2865 and Chemito 7610), Fermentor (3.9 litres), Corbett Gradient Thermal Cycler,

Eppendorf Thermal Cycler, Spectrophotometer (Cary 300, Varian, and Spectronic

20), Hach Portable Data logging Spectrophotometer (DR 2010), X-Rite

Spectrophotometer Colour 15 with Transmission kit, Cooling Centrifuge (Remi

C24), High speed Centrifuge (Remi R24), Plasto crafts cooling centrifuge (ROTA

4R), Cylco mixer (Remi), Vortex meter (Remi), Lyophilizer (Freezone 2.5-Labconco),

Juicer (Butterfly), Lux Meter (Lutron), Haemocytometer (Germen), Minimagic FM

Water Dispenser (Voltas), Paper cutter – 16” (National). Fluorescent Trinocular

Microscope with digital Camera (Dewinter), Phase Contrast Microscope (Hertel &

Reuses), Work-Compound microscope (Dutta Scientific), Stereo Microscope (CSM2), Dissection microscope,

Olympus Microscope. Digital Bomb Calorimeter, Water bath (NSW-India), Orbitek Shakers (Scigenics), Rotatory

Shaker (Remi), COD Reactor (Hach), Water Quality analyzer (Elico), Micro oven (Kelvinator), Hot air Oven,

Vacuum oven (Tempo), Heating Mantle, Briquetting Machine,

Refrigerator–4.nos, Magnetic Stirrer (Remi & Elteck), pH meter-3.nos,

Conductivity meter (Ecoscan), Weighing balance-4.nos, Laminar air

flow chambers (CLAS), Laminar air flow (Kleanzone system), Laminar

air (MRI Biotech) flow, Elder-Timer with conductor, Electrophoretic

Unit (Bangalore Genei), Autoclave (Yorco), Incubator, Environmental

Chamber (Srico), Flame Photometer (Model 1381E, Systronics),

Vacuum Cleaner (Eureka Forbes), Spray Dryer, Aircurtain (Aircon),

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Culture rack for tissue culture and algae labs, Kaima Cutter (Size – 32), Water Bath (Helico), Instant Heater, Glass

hot Plate, Deep Freezer Vertical, Deep Freezer Horizontal (Kelvinator), Vacuum Desiccators, Ball Milling Machine,

Wood Auto Vat, (Size – 23 ½” X 17”), Vipronics Ultra Sonicator, Pathak electronics Muffle furnace, Fluorescence

detector (Shimadzu), Fraction Collector (Gilson), Atomic Absorption spectroscopy (AAS- GBC), Glass Water

Distillation Unit and Steel Distillation Unit

Workshop

Band Saw Cutting Machine, Air Compressor-2.nos, Pillar Drilling Machine, Bench Grinder Single Phase, Drilling

Machine ¾”, Lath Big & Small (TRC), Milling machine, Welding Machine 6KVA, PVC Welding Machine, Algae

Vacuum sealing Machine, Extrusion Welding machine, Pipe Bending Machine, Soil block Press.

III. Information Resource Centre

The library at MCRC holds a good collection of books and scientific

journals on a variety of research areas such as Environmental Science,

Sustainable Agriculture, Microbiology, Energy and other related

subjects. The books are classified according to Dewey Decimal

Classification (DDC). Library automation system progressively

functions through the Library Manager software to facilitate the

circulation of documents. In addition, the Bar-coding technology

system for resource transaction has been implemented recently using

the Library Manager Software for quick transaction and easy access. Building up of Institutional Repository (IR)

using D-space open source software is under process.

Services

Apart from acquiring books and subscription of journals, the library provides following service to users:

Circulation

Current awareness

Reference

Referral service by using BCL & MALIBNET membership cards

Printing, Reprography, Scanning and CD-Writing

Orientation programmes to new staff/scholars

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Resources in the library

Sl. Resources Total Collection

No. as on 31.03.2011

1 Books 3800

2 Journals and Magazines 38

National 34

Foreign 04

3 Bound (Back) Volume Journals 600

4 Theses / Dissertations / Project Reports 124

5 PhD Theses 18

6 Dissertations / Project reports 106

7 Monographs 39

8 Short-term technical notes 07

9 Other publications (MCRC Scientists’ Publications,

Govt. Publications, Annual Reports, Dr. C.V. Seshadri’s Books,

Monographs and Journal articles etc) 100

Internet Facility

The centre is equipped with high speed internet connection which functions during the working hours. Sophisticated

media tools like digital cameras, projectors etc. are rendered for documentation. Latest information on faculty and

staff, research activities and extension programmes organized in the centre etc. are made available on the website of

MCRC which is periodically upgraded.

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GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT

I. Board of Governors

The Governing Body of MCRC comprises a proficient group of experienced scientists, engineers, management

experts and educationalists who formulate rules and regulations for the centre, and supervise the general functioning

of the organization. Meeting of the Board of Governors is held twice in a financial year.

Members of the Governing Body

Sl. No. Name and address Profession

Shri M.V. Murugappan, Chairman,1 New. No. 8/1, Boat Club Road,

Management

Chennai-600 028Consultant

Shri M.M. Murugappan, Member,

2“Coromandel House”, Vice Chairman,New. No.14, Boat Club Road, Murugappa GroupChennai -600 028

Shri M.M. Venkatachalam, Chairman,3 No.10, Valliammal Achi Road, Parry Agro Industries Ltd.,

Kotturpuram, Chennai - 600 085 Chennai

Prof. M. Anandakrishnan, Member,4 No.8, 5th Main Road, Katurba Nagar,

Chairman, IIT,

Adyar, Chennai - 600 020Kanpur

Mr. P. B. Jayakumar, Member,

5No. 5, Habibulla Avenue, 1st Street, Retired CompanyAnderson Road, Nungambakkam, ExecutiveChennai-600 034

Prof. P. Natarajan, Member, Emeritus Professor and Senior Scientist,INSA,6 No. 40/1, Third Main Road Kottur Gardens, University of Madras.Former Director, Central Salt

Chennai - 600 085 & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar

Mr. N. Mahatvaraj,7 Member Secretary, Q73, Anna Nagar, Executive

Chennai - 600 040

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II. Research Advisory Board

Research Advisory Board of MCRC, formed by a group of eminent scientists and experts from different areas of

science and technology, reviews the research and dissemination programmes carried out by the Centre regularly and

suggests appropriate applications attributing benefits to the rural and industrial sectors. RAB meetings are held

twice in an academic year.

Research Advisory Board Members

Sl. No. Name Profession

1Dr. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering,Chairman IIT Madras, Chennai

2 Shri. C. Ramakrishna, Member Madras Natural History Society

Consultant, Sustainable Agriculture3 Dr. G. Venkatramani, Member and Rural Development

(Formerly The Hindu Correspondent)

(Rtd. Director, NIOT, Chennai),4 Dr. M. Ravindran, Member Special Adviser, RuTAG

Cell Projects, IIT, Chennai

5 Shri V. A. Raghu, Member (Ex - MD, TII), Chennai

6Late. Dr. Balu Venkatraman,Member (Till June 2010)

Rtd. Professor, TIFR, Bombay

7 Shri. M.V. Murugappan, Member Chairman, MCRC

8 Dr. S. Seshadri,(Ex-Officio Convener) Director (R & D), MCRC

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III. Funding Agencies and Donors

Funding agencies

1. Department of Science and Technology (DST), Govt. of India, New Delhi

2. Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Govt. of India, New Delhi

3. Council for Advancement of People’s Action and Rural Technology (CAPART), New Delhi and Hyderabad

4. Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India

5. Institute of Reservoir Studies (IRS), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Ahmedabad

6. National Council for Science & Technology Communication (NCSTC)

Donors

1. Tube Investments of India Ltd.

2. Carborundum Universal Ltd.

3. EID Parry (India) Ltd.

4. Coromandel International Ltd.

5. Wendt (India) Ltd.

6. New Ambadi Estates Pvt. Ltd.

7. Parry Agro Industries Ltd.

8. Murugappa Morgan Thermal Ceramics Ltd.

9. Coromandel Engineering Company Ltd.

10. Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company Ltd.

11. AMM Foundation

12. Jayanth Packaging Pvt. Ltd

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Acknowledgement

47

We sincerely appreciate and acknowledge the encouragement and financial support rendered by various organizations including Murugappa Group companies, Government of India funding agencies and also other Private, National and International funding organizations, for the successful completion of various research and extension programmes carried out at the centre.


annual report 2010-11 - mcrc

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