Fri Oct 10 15:29:02 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
This article from The Hindu reports on two significant events at SRM University-AP in Vijayawada. First, Padma Bhushan awardee Prof. P. Balaram delivered a lecture on the interconnectedness of chemistry, Mendelian genetics, and Darwinian evolution, tracing the evolution of life and emphasizing the roles of cultural, genetic, and environmental factors. Second, the university received the QS I-GAUGE Diamond Rating for overall institutional excellence, with platinum ratings for advanced facilities and gold ratings for employability, teaching, research, diversity, accessibility, and internationalization. Governance and structure were awarded a silver rating. The university leadership sees the rating as a reflection of the dedication of faculty, students, and university leadership.
**News Article:**
**SRM University-AP Receives Top Rating, Hosts Renowned Scientist**
**VIJAYAWADA, October 11, 2025** – SRM University-AP in Vijayawada has been recognized for its commitment to excellence, earning the prestigious QS I-GAUGE Diamond Rating for overall institutional performance. The announcement coincides with a lecture by Padma Bhushan awardee Prof. P. Balaram, who spoke on the interwoven relationship between chemistry, genetics, and evolution.
The QS I-GAUGE rating highlighted several strengths of the university, with Platinum ratings awarded to its advanced facilities. Key areas such as Employability, Teaching and Learning, Research, Diversity and Accessibility, and Internationalization all received Gold ratings. Governance and Structure were given a Silver rating.
“The QS I-GAUGE evaluation highlights SRM AP’s strengths and areas for investment,” said Karthik Rajendran, Associate Dean, Office of the Dean–Quality Assurance and Rankings. Vice-Chancellor (I/C) Ch. Satish Kumar hailed the Diamond Rating as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the university’s faculty, students, leadership, and stakeholders.
Adding to the week’s highlights, Prof. Balaram, a senior professor from the National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bengaluru, delivered a lecture titled “Evolutionary Inventions and Innovations That Drove the Rise of Chemistry, the Birth of Biology, and Determine Human History.” He explored the evolution of Darwin’s ideas, tracing the progress of life and emphasizing the cultural, genetic, and environmental factors influencing its development. He emphasized the continuum connecting the physical, chemical, and biological worlds.
The event was attended by faculty, scholars, and students, who were encouraged by the Vice-Chancellor to draw inspiration from Prof. Balaram’s distinguished academic and research career.
First Piper 