University. Producing
10 PhDs besides 30
publications and two
patents provided a robust
start.
How do you define
the success achieved
by the collaborative
research efforts
between TERI and
Deakin University?
DR ALOK ADHOLEYA
Please share your
feelings over the
inauguration of the
new TERI-Deakin
Nano-Biotech Centre
at Gurugram?
Dr Adholeya: This is a
major milestone centre
assuming responsibility
towards contributing to
nation building through
cutting edge technologies
and innovations. This is
a unique facility focusing
on increasing farm
income in a sustainable
and environmentally
benign system besides
aiming towards bio based
economy.
Prof Hodgson: It was
Prof Peter Hodgson
a major highlight in my
interactions in India for
over 10 years. It was a
very proud day for me
as an individual and
for Deakin, as we are
committed to working in
partnership with India
and Indian researchers.
Have the basic
objectives been
fulfilled since the
inception of the
Centre in 2012? What
are the milestones
achieved so far?
Dr Adholeya: It has
been a multidisciplinary
expertise under one roof
with complimentary
partnership with Deakin
Prof Hodgson: Success
can be measured in a
number of ways. There
is the translation of our
joint research to tackle
problems that affect
individuals on a day-to-
day basis. For example,
our work on seed coating
has the great potential
to increase crop yields
for typical small scale
farmers in India, as well
as reduce the costs and
then, importantly, stop
the negative impact
of pesticides on the
local environment and
waterways. At another
level, we are developing
future research leaders for
India. Our PhD graduates
are already making a
significant impact and
we see this as a major
area, going forward. We
will also be encouraging
entrepreneurship and the
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