Mon May 26 10:01:19 UTC 2025: ## News Article:
**Hyderabad, India – Renowned Materials Scientist Dr. Manorama Sunkara Vardhireddy Awarded Prestigious Raja Ramanna Chair**
Dr. Manorama Sunkara Vardhireddy, former chief scientist at CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), has been awarded the esteemed Raja Ramanna Chair (RRC) by the Department of Atomic Energy. This prestigious appointment, spanning three years, recognizes her decades-long contributions to materials science, specifically her impactful research in chemical sensors and nanostructured materials. She will be rejoining CSIR-IICT for the duration of her tenure.
Dr. Vardhireddy, with a background in physics from Savitribai Phule Pune University, has been a pioneer in the field of chemical sensors. Her work has led to the development of critical technologies, including a low-temperature H₂S sensor for nuclear reactors, a room-temperature hydrogen sensor (recognized by Ames Laboratory, USA), and a carbon monoxide sensor designed to protect defense personnel in oxygen-deficient environments.
This award highlights the growing prominence of Indian women in science, as noted in other articles by The Hindu, including pieces on leading Indian women scientist elected as International Brain Research Organisation’s president and the increasing opportunities for women in space exploration, particularly in potential future missions to Mars. The Hindu remains committed to reporting on key developments in Indian science and technology, offering perspectives on world affairs, regional news from Karnataka, film reviews, technology trends, science communication, data-driven analysis, health insights, and book reviews.
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