Indian, Australian PMs launch world's most advanced nanobiotechnology research centre in India

New Delhi/Gurgaon [India], April 10 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull inaugurated the world's most advanced nanobiotechnology research centre, a joint venture between The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and Deakin University, Australia. "The cooperation in the field of education and research is the most important field of engagement between India and Australia. TERI-Deakin Nanobiotechnology Research Centre is a classic example of the kind of cutting edge research being done by the two countries. The $100 million Australia-India Strategic Research Fund is for collaborative research in areas such as nanotechnology, agriculture, food security, smart cities, etc. Our joint research has entered the phase of field trials and this outstanding science cooperation is firmly rooted in tangible outcomes, that is, to improve the lives of millions," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while digitally inaugurating the TERI Deakin Nanobiotechnology Centre. Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, said, "The Deakin-TERI Nanobiotechnology Research Centre, which we just inaugurated, is brilliant and I want to say thank you to the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor of Deakin University. So well done! This research centre will bring up to 100 researchers together to solve some of the world's biggest problems in developing biofuels to early detection of crop diseases to improve productivity. And these are practical solutions with commercial prospects for both of our countries." The TERI-Deakin Nano Biotechnology Centre (TDNBC), established at Gwal Pahari, Gurgaon, aims to support and nurture innovative ideas for existing problems of Indian agriculture amongst other sectors. In 2010, The Energy and Resources Institute, India, and Deakin University, Australia, signed an agreement to establish a joint Centre of Excellence, the TERI-Deakin Nano Biotechnology Centre (TDNBC) to foster cutting-edge research around sustainable agriculture, which was achieved through establishment of a laboratory worth AU$7.8 million at TERI Gram, Gwal Pahari, Haryana, India. The centre is an expansion of Deakin University's ongoing 'Deakin India Research Initiative'. This Centre has also been rated as a 5-star GRIHA building; it is an example of resource efficiency and smart future. The Class 10000 and 1000 controlled environment Centre is spread over 5 acres of land and houses high-end scientific equipment like Nano particle analyser (XETA sizer), Lazer scanning microscope (Confocal), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), and Transmission Electron microscope (TEM). Dr. Ajay Mathur, Director General, TERI said, "Indian agriculture today is facing new challenges, such as degrading natural resources, climate change and almost stagnant productivity. Nanotechnology interventions have been identified as the most critical area of application of nanotechnology for attaining the goals of Vision 2050, to enhance agricultural productivity. And, this centre will strive to achieve this vision." While addressing the media, Prof. Jane Den Hollander, Vice Chancellor and President of Deakin University, Australia, said, "We are delighted to partner with TERI for building scientific temper and bringing new innovations in the field of science and technology. Deakin is passionate about supporting the communities we serve and ensuring our graduates are prepared for the jobs of the future, in a global environment. "As the first Australian university to establish an office in India in 1994, Deakin is proud to continue to strengthen our relationship each year, providing opportunities to students around the world and helping to improve lives both in India and Australia." (ANI)