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In the new R&D regime, Nanotechnology has emerged as a veritable
El Dorado. It is likely to usher in an entire range of
novel technologies in almost all areas of human endeavour. In the
technology focus of this issue we present both an introduction to
the subject and to the gamut of related research now underway at
our institute.
In continuation with the last issue of this magazine, we explore
the likely impacts of globalization on two more areas: urban
planning and corporate R&D. In both cases our country
may stand to gain and lose at the same time, which calls for
understanding the subtle implications of the processes unfolding,
and evolving effective strategies. Globalization has also entailed
a lowered role of government in national economies. Reduced public
spending in higher education is one of its many effects. Today,
the academia has to increasingly rely on self-generated funds
through mechanisms that in some ways mimic business. In
Commentary we explore the conflicts this is causing within the
academia.
The science of Organic Synthesis (i.e. mimesis) of natural
molecules is a potent route for manufacture of a host of
pharmaceuticals and new materials. Some of the research programmes
in this field at IIT Bombay have received much acclaim. A
multi-disciplinary team of faculty has been developing software
tools for efficient management of railway operations. The work has
the potential for securing substantial benefits for the country's
railway network, one of the largest of its kind in the world. We
review both these R&D activities.
Over the recent years the emphasis on developmental work has been
deepening at IITB. We present an array of such successful ventures
in this issue.
Sandip Roy
Editor
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