UP Govt Approves a Record Number of 109 Research Proposals

A project sanctioned during this session involves creating an IoT-enabled electric wheelchair with AI to benefit individuals with disabilities.

The Uttar Pradesh Council of Science and Technology (UPCST), has approved a record-breaking 109 research proposals, with a total expenditure of INR 1,409 Lakh.

UPCST's 115th Executive Committee meeting was chaired by Narendra Bhooshan, principal secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and director-general of UPCST.

One of the approved projects aims to develop an AI-based, IoT-operated electronic wheelchair with helmet control tailored for differently abled individuals. The project will be executed by Dr Ambedkar Institute of Technology for Handicapped in Kanpur.

To address issues related to prolonged desk work, the committee sanctioned a project focusing on a real-time posture correction system using AI, machine learning, and IoT. This project, led by the Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology in Prayagraj, aims to provide timely posture warnings to desk workers to prevent issues including back pain and spondylitis.

King George's Medical University in Lucknow will work on another project to develop multi-parametric MRI models using machine learning. These models will aid in identifying, classifying, and diagnosing renal tumours, potentially advancing medical science.

For another project, IIT Kanpur will create an AI-based healthcare application to detect the harmful effects of betel leaves and tobacco consumption, enabling early detection of throat cancer.

Additionally, scholarships for research staff involved in council-supported research projects have been increased. The Research Assistant fellowship was raised from INR 20,000.00 to INR 25,000.00, while the Senior Research Assistant fellowship increased from INR 22,000.00 to INR 28,000.00.

The Executive Committee also emphasised the importance of conducting research activities across all state districts, particularly in aspirational districts, Bundelkhand, and underdeveloped areas of Purvanchal.

To promote interest in space-related activities among students in Uttar Pradesh, the council plans to collaborate with ISRO and organise a two-day workshop for teachers and students.

Recognising the potential of small-scale innovations by uneducated or semi-literate individuals to address common problems, the council approved the organisation of "Jan Jagrukta and Nav Pravartan Pradarshani" (Public Awareness and New Innovation Exhibition) in 50 districts across the state.

During the call for research proposals, the council highlighted the significance of research in emerging fields, including blockchain, 3D printing in the medical field, quantum computing, IoT, augmented reality, virtual reality, 5G and 6G technologies, AI, drones, machine learning, environmental and pollution control, agricultural technologies, non-conventional energy, and space science, all aimed at addressing societal challenges.

The Executive Committee approved research projects spanning various sectors, such as agriculture, chemical sciences, environmental sciences, medical sciences, pharmaceuticals, physical sciences, information technology, engineering and technology, and biotechnology.