Wed Dec 17 00:00:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tamil Nadu Invests in Nanotechnology for Economic Growth and Social Justice

Vellore, December 17, 2025 – The 3rd International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICNAN’25) kicked off at Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) today, with Tamil Nadu Minister for Transport and Electricity, S.S. Sivasankar, highlighting the state government’s commitment to fostering higher education, research, and innovation, particularly in the field of nanotechnology.

In his address, Minister Sivasankar emphasized the transformative potential of nanotechnology, stating, “Nations leading in nanotechnology will dominate future industries.” He underscored the Dravidian Model government’s focus on integrating social justice with economic growth, citing the success of initiatives like the zero-ticket bus scheme for women, which now benefits millions daily and has been emulated by other states.

The Minister noted that nanotechnology plays a crucial role in developing advanced technologies, including high-performance batteries, durable solar technologies, and next-generation hydrogen systems.

VIT Chancellor G. Viswanathan emphasized the importance of higher education for national development, highlighting VIT’s ranking improvements in QS Sustainability Rankings, securing 7th place in India and 352nd globally. He urged both central and state governments to prioritize health and education.

Nobel laureate Professor Moungi Bawendi from MIT, USA, added insights into the field, saying, “Nano science and nano technology involve manipulating and engineering materials at the atomic scale. The aim is to discover new scientific properties and create novel materials with diverse applications.” He noted that the field has gained significant momentum in recent decades.

The conference also saw participation from VIT Vice-President Sekar Viswanathan, Executive Director Sandhya Pentareddy, Vice-Chancellor V.S. Kanchana Bhaaskaran, Pro Vice-Chancellor Partha Sharathi Mallick, and Centre for Nanotechnology Research Director Dr. Nirmala Grace.

ICNAN’25 is a four-day event expected to draw leading researchers and experts in nanoscience and nanotechnology from around the world. The conference aims to facilitate knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation in this rapidly evolving field.

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