IIT-B professor awarded prestigious INSA Young Scientist medal
What's the story
Vikram Vishal, assistant professor in the Earth Sciences department at IIT-B, has won the coveted Indian National Science Academy (INSA) medal for Young Scientist, 2017. It is considered one of the most prestigious recognitions of excellence in young scientists. There is no scope for self-application; winners are chosen through nomination. He has been awarded a cash prize of Rs. 25,000 and a bronze medal.
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A glance at Prof Vishal's qualifications
Prof. Vishal is the first graduate from the IIT-B Monash Research Academy, a joint venture between IIT-B and Australia's Monash University. Fellows get to earn a dual-badged PhD from both the institutions; they also get to spend time in both countries during their research period.
Research
Vishal's research focused on climate change, global warming
Prof. Vishal wanted to focus on preventing climate change and global warming by controlling the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. For the purpose, he conceptualized underground reservoirs to hold the carbon dioxide released from industries; instead of releasing it into the air, it would instead be diverted deep into the ground. The mechanism is called 'Geologic Carbon sequestration'.
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Does Vishal's model have scope of application in India?
Prof. Vishal says his model can be utilized in many regions of India where there is significant industrial release - coal fields in southern and northeastern Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, MP and WB. The carbon dioxide can be injected for methane recovery, or simply stored.