SRM INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, RAMAPURAM
FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES
DEPARTMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
Industrial Visit Report
The Department of Biotechnology has organized an industrial visit on 11th July, 2024 to M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), Taramani, Chennai Tamil Nadu. The students participated in this industrial visit were 50 students of III year B.Sc Biotechnology. The MSSRF aims to accelerate use of modern science and technology for agricultural and rural development to improve lives and livelihoods of communities. It is carrying out research and development in various major thematic areas such as biotechnology, ecotechnology, biodiversity, coastal systems research, climate change and agricultural, nutrition and health. Our visit was started with a warm welcome by Ms. Surya, Communications Executives. She has elaborated on the history, objectives and focuses on uplifting the marginalized communities through their various initiatives. The students have also visited the Hall of Fame, where the lifetime achievements of Prof. M. S. Swaminathan were displayed.
Subsequently, a researcher from the institution has discussed the work on salinity tolerance in mangrove species Avicennia marina and Oryza coarctata associated with the HKT1.5 gene. This collaborative project examines sodium transporter variation in the cultivated rice through sequence mining, cloning, bioinformatics modelling, and assessment of sodium transporting function in heterologous expression systems. This has provided the students with an in-depth understanding of cutting-edge research aimed at addressing significant agricultural challenges. The visit concluded with a tour of the botanical garden, which featured a wide variety of plants. We observed several plant species, including neem, tulsi, banana, papaya etc. This garden not only serves as a resource for nutritional research but also exemplifies the foundation’s holistic approach to health and agriculture.
Overall, the industrial visit to the MSSRF was an enriching experience that provided us with valuable insights into agricultural research and sustainable practices. The dedication of MSSRF in improving agricultural resilience and promoting nutritional security was evident throughout the visit. This visit not only enhanced our academic knowledge but also inspired us to consider the broader implications of agricultural science in achieving sustainable development goals.
Event Title: Industrial Visit
Date: 11/07/2024
Time: 8.00 A.M. to 4.00 P.M.
Organized: Department of Biotechnology
Organizing Head: Dr. M. Kamaraj
Convenor: Dr. R. Vinoth Kumar
