J&K L-G Manoj Sinha calls for landslide warning sensors in Himalayan region using nanotechnology

In the wake of the recent floods in the Jammu region, which resulted in the deaths of scores of people, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has urged scientists to develop an early warning system for flashfloods to help save lives.

“Keeping in mind the challenges posed by climate change, we should focus on creating nano-materials that can reduce pollution in chemical manufacturing. We must also explore new possibilities to develop soil sensors specifically for the Himalayan regions. These sensors would form part of an advanced early warning system that can detect the risk of landslides in advance by monitoring changes in soil saturation,” the L-G said.

He called on scientists and experts to form a dedicated group to help develop an advanced early warning system for flashfloods by creating more sensitive and accurate sensors through nanotechnology. According to him, such projects could be game-changers in preventing losses due to natural disasters in the Himalayan region.

The L-G made these remarks while addressing the inaugural session of the international conference on “Nanotechnology for Better Living (NBL-2025)” at the University of Kashmir.

The five-day mega event, organised by the University of Kashmir in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad, has brought together leading scientists and researchers to showcase recent advancements in nanotechnology and its applications for sustainable living.

Sinha spoke about the advancements and breakthroughs in nanotechnology that are reshaping everyday life and work environments, thereby enhancing ease of living.

“Today, the evolution of nanoscience and nanotechnology is having a transformative impact across various sectors. Cutting-edge research in the future will address critical global challenges in industries, healthcare and the environment. There is hardly any area of global socio-economic development that does not bear the imprint of nanotechnology in some form. In the years to come, this will become even more prominent as we continue to make new technological advancements,” the L-G stated.

He further urged scientists and experts associated with nanotechnology to make significant contributions to the defense sector, particularly in manufacturing lighter components for defense equipment. Nanotechnology experts must join this national effort and strengthen the campaign for self-reliance in defense manufacturing, he said.

Sinha also emphasised the need to devise a plan to incentivise talent in nanotechnology at academic institutions. “Our focus should be on developing and using nanotechnology for the benefit of humanity. We cannot ignore the daunting challenges posed by climate change. Our inventions and initiatives reflect the rapid progress we are making in various areas of nanotechnology. In the future, innovations in nanoscale transistors, nanoparticles, nano-materials, and nanoscale additives across sectors such as energy, environment, food, agriculture and electronics will be crucial for the welfare of humanity. I hope the benefits of these technologies will reach the common man,” he added.

Prof Nilofer Khan, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir; Prof Praveen K Vemula, Dean of Academics at BRIC-InStem, Bangalore; Prof Ashok Kumar, eminent scientist from IIT Kanpur; Prof Rabia Hamid, Head of the Department of Nanotechnology at the University of Kashmir and organising chair of the conference; along with other scientists, experts, researchers and heads of educational institutions, were present at the event.