Summer Training: Scientific Institutes in India, scope and applications (Dr. Prashant B Kale)

Summer Training in Scientific Institutes in India

(Dr. Prashant B Kale)

Definition:

Summer training programs in scientific institutes in India provide undergraduate and postgraduate students with hands-on experience in research. These programs introduce students to laboratory techniques, scientific methodologies, and ongoing research projects, helping them develop critical thinking and technical skills.

Opportunities in India:

Several premier institutes in India offer summer research fellowships and training programs, such as:

1. Indian Academy of Sciences (IAS) Summer Research Fellowship – For undergraduate and postgraduate students to work under renowned scientists.
2. Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) Summer Research Fellowship – Offers training in biology, chemistry, and physics.
3. Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) Summer Internship – Open to students from science and engineering backgrounds.
4. Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) Laboratories – Various CSIR labs (NCL, NIO, NBRI, etc.) offer summer training programs.
5. Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Summer Research Program – Offers research experience in different science and engineering disciplines.
6. National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) and Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) Summer Training – Focuses on biological research.
7. BARC Summer Training Program – Focuses on nuclear science and engineering research.
8. Regional Agricultural Universities and ICAR Institutes – Offer summer internships in biotechnology, genetics, and agricultural research.

Scope and Importance of Summer Training in Scientific Institutes:

• Enhances practical knowledge and laboratory skills.

Plants as Factories: Revolutionizing Human Requirements through Molecular Farming

Plants as Factories: Revolutionizing Human Requirements through Molecular Farming

Introduction

The idea of using plants as biological factories to produce essential human requirements is no longer a distant dream. With advances in molecular farming,

genetically engineered plants are now capable of producing proteins, enzymes, and other biomolecules that were previously sourced from animals or industrial processes. This breakthrough has opened up possibilities for sustainable food production, pharmaceuticals, and bio-materials, promising a future where agriculture and biotechnology converge to meet human needs efficiently and ethically.

The Science Behind Molecular Farming

Molecular farming involves the genetic modification of plants to produce substances they do not naturally synthesize. Unlike traditional genetic modification, which focuses on improving traits such as drought resistance or yield, molecular farming transforms plants into bio-factories for producing specific proteins, growth factors, vaccines, and more. By inserting desired genes into plant genomes, scientists can cultivate crops that express valuable biomolecules, reducing dependence on conventional production methods.

Success Stories in Molecular Farming

1. Dairy Proteins from Potatoes

Israeli startup Finally Foods has successfully engineered potatoes to produce casein, a primary protein in cow’s milk.

 कृष्णा फळ (पॅशन फ्रूट) - सविस्तर लेख 

(प्रशांत काळे,  श्रीराम मिरजकर)

**कृष्णा फळ (पॅशन फ्रूट): पोषणमूल्यांचा खजिना**  

कृष्णा फळ, आपल्या अनोख्या चवीनं आणि समृद्ध पोषणमूल्यांमुळे, संपूर्ण जगभरात लोकप्रिय होत आहे. हे फळ केवळ स्वादिष्ट नसून आरोग्यासाठीही अत्यंत लाभदायक आहे. उष्णकटिबंधीय प्रदेशात नैसर्गिकरित्या वाढणाऱ्या या फळाची लागवड आता व्यावसायिक स्तरावर मोठ्या प्रमाणात केली जाते. यामध्ये जीवनसत्त्वे, खनिजे, अँटिऑक्सिडंट्स मुबलक प्रमाणात आढळतात, त्यामुळे हे फळ हृदयसंबंधी विकार, मधुमेह आणि रोगप्रतिकारशक्ती वाढवण्यासाठी उपयुक्त ठरते. या लेखात आपण कृष्णा फळाची उत्पत्ती, विविधता, लागवडीच्या आधुनिक तंत्रज्ञानापासून ते बाजारपेठेतील मागणीपर्यंत सविस्तर माहिती जाणून घेणार आहोत.

१. उत्पत्ती केंद्र (Centre of Origin)

कृष्णा फळ (Passion Fruit) हे मूळचे दक्षिण अमेरिकेतील ब्राझील, पराग्वे आणि अर्जेंटिना या प्रदेशातील आहे. या ठिकाणी नैसर्गिकरित्या मोठ्या प्रमाणावर त्याची लागवड आढळते.

Empowering Women for a Progressive and Sustainable India (Dr. Prashant Kale)

 Empowering Women for a Progressive and Sustainable India

(Dr. Prashant Kale)

Women's empowerment is a cornerstone for creating a progressive and sustainable society. As we navigate through the 21st century, the collective efforts of individuals, communities, and governments are pivotal in enhancing the roles and opportunities for women. This article delves into the thematic areas essential for fostering women's empowerment in India, supported by case studies and innovative approaches.

1. Women in Leadership and Governance

Leadership positions enable women to influence policies and decision-making processes. However, the representation of women in governance and leadership roles in India remains underwhelming.

Case Study: Women Leaders in Panchayati Raj

The Panchayati Raj system has provided a platform for rural women to engage in governance. For instance, the state of Rajasthan has witnessed women sarpanches initiating water conservation projects and improving local infrastructure.

Basic Helix-Loop-Helix (bHLH) Transcription Factors: Role in Plant Development

Basic Helix-Loop-Helix (bHLH) Transcription Factors: Role in Plant Development

(Dr. PB Kale and Monali Ther)

Abstract

Basic Helix-Loop-Helix (bHLH) transcription factors (TFs) constitute one of the largest and most diverse families of TFs in plants, regulating various biological processes essential for plant growth, development, and stress responses. This article explores the structural features of bHLH TFs, their classification, and their diverse roles in plant development, including cell differentiation, organ formation, hormone signaling, and response to environmental cues. The significance of bHLH TFs in crop improvement and future research directions are also discussed.

https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2021.677611

Coconut (Indian Coconut Plant)

Coconut (Indian Coconut Plant)

Taxonomy:

Kingdom: Plantae

• Clade: Angiosperms
• Clade: Monocots
• Order: Arecales
• Family: Arecaceae
• Genus: Cocos
• Species: Cocos nucifera

SN	6
Flora	Coconut
Address(s)	https://maps.app.goo.gl/KP3b3Bmb5Sondwnx8
Classification	Front gate of college building
InfoLite	https://krishiprabha.blogspot.com/2025/01/coconut-palm-cocos-nucifera.html
InfoBase Status	https://krishiprabha.blogspot.com/2025/01/coconut-indian-coconut-plant.html
	NO
Cataloging	YES

The coconut (Cocos nucifera) belongs to the family Arecaceae, commonly referred to as the palm family. It is the only species in the genus Cocos. Native to tropical regions, the coconut palm is widely cultivated for its versatility and economic value, especially in coastal and island ecosystems.

Morphology:

• The coconut palm is a tall, unbranched tree that can grow up to 30 meters, with a smooth, slender trunk.

Coconut palm (Cocos nucifera)

 Coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) 

Taxonomy:

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Clade: Angiosperms
• Clade: Monocots
• Order: Arecales
• Family: Arecaceae
• Genus: Cocos
• Species: Cocos nucifera

Taxonomic Description:
The coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) belongs to the family Arecaceae, commonly known as the palm family. This family includes several economically and ecologically significant species distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. Cocos nucifera is the only accepted species in the genus Cocos, making it a monotypic genus. It is a member of the order Arecales, characterized by its unbranched stem, pinnate leaves, and drupe-type fruit.

Coconut palms are often referred to as the "tree of life" due to their wide range of uses, including food, oil, fiber, and wood. The species is widely cultivated in tropical coastal regions and serves as a keystone species in coastal ecosystems.

SN	6
Flora	Coconut
Address(s)	https://maps.app.goo.gl/KP3b3Bmb5Sondwnx8
Classification	Front gate of college building
InfoLite	https://krishiprabha.blogspot.com/2025/01/coconut-palm-cocos-nucifera.html
InfoBase Status	https://krishiprabha.blogspot.com/2025/01/coconut-indian-coconut-plant.html
	NO
Cataloging	YES

Link Table: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance

Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance

_Dr. PB Kale (Date of draft for proposal; April 1, 2024)

SN	Expt.	MapLocat(ions)	Title / Material and Method	Field Data	Cataloging	InfoBase Status
1	Expt 1: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance	VNGCAB-KVK Field area, Yavatmal Key Words: Rice, Drought, Rice https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZSP8e7y6iuHNrnRc8	https://krishiprabha.blogspot.com/2025/01/evaluation-of-rice-genotypes-and.html	IR data	NO	YES
				Spectral signatures
				Phenomics data
				Genomics Data
				General articles ·

Genomics Studies: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance Using Genomics Studies

 

Genomics Studies: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance Using Genomics Studies

Principle of the Method

Genomics involves the analysis of DNA sequences and genetic variations to identify genes, alleles, and regulatory elements associated with specific traits, such as drought tolerance. By integrating high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics, genomics enables the discovery of genetic markers, quantitative trait loci (QTLs), and drought-responsive genes in rice genotypes and mutants. This approach facilitates understanding the genetic basis of drought tolerance and accelerates breeding programs.

Methodology

Phenomics Studies: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance Using Phenomics Studies

 

Phenomics Studies: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance Using Phenomics Studies

Principle of the Method

Phenomics involves the high-throughput analysis of plant traits (phenotypes) under controlled or field conditions. By combining advanced imaging, sensor technologies, and automated data analysis, phenomics enables the comprehensive assessment of morphological, physiological, and biochemical responses of rice genotypes and mutants to drought stress. This approach allows for non-destructive, time-resolved measurements of traits associated with drought tolerance.

Methodology

1. Experimental Setup

• Plant Material: Use a diverse panel of rice genotypes and mutants, including drought-tolerant and sensitive controls.
• Growth Conditions: Conduct experiments in controlled environments (e.g., greenhouse or phenomics facility) or field phenotyping platforms under two treatments:
  • Well-Watered (WW): Normal irrigation.
  • Drought-Stressed (DS): Withhold water during critical growth stages (vegetative and reproductive).

Spectral Signatures: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance Using Spectral Signatures

 

Spectral Signatures: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance Using Spectral Signatures

Principle of the Method

Spectral signatures refer to the unique patterns of electromagnetic radiation reflected or absorbed by plant tissues across different wavelengths. Under drought stress, changes in leaf water content, chlorophyll concentration, and canopy structure alter the reflectance and absorbance of light. By analyzing spectral signatures in visible (VIS), near-infrared (NIR), and shortwave infrared (SWIR) regions, drought tolerance traits in rice genotypes and mutants can be quantified and compared.

Methodology

1. Experimental Setup

• Use a multispectral or hyperspectral sensor to measure the reflectance from the rice canopy at key growth stages (vegetative and reproductive stages).
• Perform measurements under standardized light conditions (preferably sunny days, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM).

IR data: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance

IR Data: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance Using Infrared (IR) Imaging

Principle of the Method

Infrared (IR) imaging evaluates plant temperature and water status by detecting thermal radiation emitted from plant surfaces. Plants under drought stress often exhibit increased canopy temperatures due to reduced transpiration caused by stomatal closure. By analyzing IR images, differences in canopy temperature, water-use efficiency, and drought stress responses among rice genotypes, varieties, and mutants can be quantified.

Methodology

1. Setup of IR Imaging

   • Use a thermal infrared camera to capture canopy temperature data during the vegetative and reproductive stages.
   • Conduct imaging under clear skies during midday (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) to minimize environmental variability.

2. Data Collection

   • Capture IR images for all genotypes and mutants in well-watered (WW) and drought-stressed (DS) conditions.
   • Record concurrent environmental parameters, such as air temperature, relative humidity, and solar radiation, for normalization.

3. Image Analysis

   • Process IR images using thermal imaging software to extract average canopy temperature for each plot.
   • Normalize temperature readings based on environmental conditions and calculate the crop water stress index (CWSI) for each genotype.

4. Supplementary Measurements

   • Measure stomatal conductance and relative water content (RWC) to correlate physiological responses with IR data.
   • Validate thermal data with leaf temperature measured using a portable infrared thermometer.

Expected Output

1. Canopy Temperature Analysis

   • Identification of genotypes with lower canopy temperatures under drought stress, indicating better cooling through transpiration.
   • Categorization of mutants into tolerant and sensitive groups based on thermal profiles.

2. Crop Water Stress Index (CWSI)

   • Calculation of CWSI for each genotype/mutant to quantify the degree of drought stress experienced.
   • Genotypes with low CWSI values will be identified as drought-tolerant.

3. Trait Association

   • Correlation between canopy temperature and yield, water-use efficiency, and physiological traits (e.g., RWC and stomatal conductance).
   • Identification of traits contributing to drought resilience through thermal data.

4. Ranking of Genotypes and Mutants

   • A ranked list of genotypes and mutants based on their ability to maintain lower canopy temperatures and higher drought tolerance indices.
   • Insights into genetic and phenotypic variability in drought response.

5. Visualization

   • Heat maps and temperature distribution charts for a clear graphical representation of drought stress impacts across genotypes.

Applications of the Output

• Guide breeding programs to select drought-tolerant genotypes and mutants.
• Enhance understanding of physiological mechanisms underlying drought resilience.
• Develop predictive models for field-scale drought monitoring and management.

Title & Method: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance

Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance

_Dr. PB Kale (Date of draft for proposal; April 1, 2024)

SN	Expt.	Em(IM)blem	MapLocat(ions)	Address(s)	Title / Material and Method	Field Data	Cataloging	InfoBase Status
1	Expt 1: Evaluation of Rice Genotypes and Mutants for Drought Tolerance		https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZSP8e7y6iuHNrnRc8	VNGCAB-KVK Field area, Yavatmal Key Words: Rice, Drought, Rice	https://krishiprabha.blogspot.com/2025/01/evaluation-of-rice-genotypes-and.html	IR data	NO	YES
						Spectral signatures
						Phenomics data
						Genomics Data
						General articles

1. Selection of Plant Material

• Identify and procure a diverse set of rice genotypes and mutants with varying genetic backgrounds.
• Include drought-tolerant controls and sensitive checks for comparison.

2. Experimental Site Preparation

• Select well-defined experimental plots at the VNGCAB campus with controlled irrigation systems.
• Divide plots into two treatments:
• Well-Watered Condition (WW): Regular irrigation to maintain field capacity.
• Drought-Stressed Condition (DS): Water supply withheld at critical growth stages.

3. Experimental Design

• Use a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates for each genotype.
• Plot size: 5 rows per genotype, 3 meters long with 20 cm row spacing.

4. Sowing

• Date of sowing: June 15, 2024 (adjusted for monsoon onset in the region).
• Sow seeds manually, ensuring uniform spacing.