Connect with us

Technology

Chandigarh University Commemorates ‘Father of Fibre Optics’ Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany’s 100th Birth Anniversary with India’s First Research Chair in His Name; announces annual Grant of ₹1 Crore for Scientific Research

Published

2 days ago

on

Chandigarh University Confers ‘Narinder Singh Kapany Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Physics’ on Dr Ajoy Ghatak, Prof Emeritus IIT Delhi for Contributions to Fibre Optics & Photonics

CHANDIGARH, India, Oct. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Chandigarh: To mark the 100th birth anniversary of Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany, the legendary Indian scientist widely known as the ‘Father of Fibre Optics’ whose groundbreaking research in optical fibre technology transformed global telecommunications and laid the foundation for today’s digital revolution, Chandigarh University has announced the establishment of India’s first ‘Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany Research Chair for Excellence in Sciences and Innovation’, along with an annual research grant of ₹1 crore to advance scientific research and innovation.

In a pioneering initiative, Chandigarh University has announced India’s first-ever Research Chair established in the name of Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany, recognizing his unparalleled contribution to science and technology. With no other research chair dedicated to Dr. Kapany currently established in India, this initiative marks a significant institutional tribute to the legendary scientist and seeks to carry forward his legacy through sustained investment in scientific research, innovation and the nurturing of young scientific talent. The Research Chair will provide mentorship, guidance and research support to budding scientists, enabling them to pursue innovative ideas, undertake advanced research and translate scientific discoveries into impactful technologies.

Prominent among those who graced the centenary celebrations of Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany at Chandigarh University campus were Prof. (Dr.) Samir K. Mondal Scientist-G, Optics & Photonics Instrumentation CSIR-CSIO, Chandigarh as Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Aaron Danner, National University of Singapore as Guest of Honour, Eminent Researcher Dr Ajoy Ghatak, Prof. Emeritus, IIT Delhi (virtually) and Dr. Satbir Singh Sehgal Vice-Chancellor Chandigarh University among other dignitaries.

Speaking on the occasion Prof. (Dr.) Samir K. Mondal Scientist-G, Optics & Photonics Instrumentation CSIR-CSIO, Chandigarh said, “Professor Kapani’s contribution to optical science began with his pioneering work on thin, flexible glass fibres, through which he demonstrated for the first time that images could be transmitted from one end to another using bundles of optical fibres. Professor Kapani developed thin, flexible glass fibres and successfully transmitting images through them, laying the foundation for modern fibre optics. He also coined the term ‘optical fibre’ and developed the fibre scope, which later evolved into applications such as endoscopy. His work demonstrated that optical fibres could carry information, opening possibilities beyond image transmission, including voice and data communication.”

Prof Mondal added, “There is also an important question of recognition for Indian scientists. Scientific contributions do not always receive the recognition they deserve and the Nobel Prize is a complex matter. I gave the example of S.N. Bose, whose work has had a lasting influence on physics and is associated with several Nobel Prize-winning developments, despite him never receiving the Nobel Prize himself. Similarly, Professor Kapani’s contribution to optical fibre technology deserves to be remembered and carried forward. We represent one-sixth of the world’s population and taking forward the scientific legacy of such visionaries is no less significant than receiving a Nobel Prize. We must encourage our young researchers to build upon their work and explore new frontiers of science and technology.”

Prof. (Dr.) Aaron Danner National University of Singapore said, “Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany’s pioneering work demonstrated how light could be guided through thin glass fibres using the principle of total internal reflection, overcoming the limitations of metallic transmission. His work on fibre bundles, image transmission and endoscopy opened new possibilities in imaging and optical science. Today, the same fundamental technology that Dr. Kapany started with glass fibres is being used on silicon and lithium niobate wafers to develop advanced photonic devices and achieve increasingly higher communication speeds. While modern research is addressing new engineering challenges in laser sources, optical modulators and high-speed data transmission, it continues to build on those early contributions. We may see Dr. Kapany as a great Indian or Punjabi scientist, but I also see him as a great American scientist. Great science and great scientists are global and their contributions ultimately benefit all of humanity.”

Eminent Researcher Dr Ajoy Ghatak, Prof. Emeritus, IIT Delhi said, “It is indeed a great honour to receive this award in the name of Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany, one of the pioneers of fibre optics. His early work on cladded optical fibres and image transmission through fibre bundles laid the foundation for medical endoscopy. The development of low-loss optical fibres has since revolutionised communication through their tremendous information-carrying capacity, enabling global connectivity and video communication. The establishment of the Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany Research Chair by Chandigarh University is a commendable initiative to advance his scientific legacy and inspire future generations of researchers. This recognition is also a tribute to Dr. Kapany’s remarkable contributions to science.”

Dr. Satbir Singh Sehgal Vice-Chancellor Chandigarh University said, “Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany brought immense pride to India and Punjab through his pioneering research in optical fibre technology, which made high-speed internet and modern digital communication possible. Technologies such as artificial intelligence, data centres and seamless global connectivity rely on the foundations of optical fibre technology. His contribution helped usher humanity into the digital era and accelerated technological progress worldwide. The establishment of India’s first Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany Research Chair, along with its annual grant and prestigious awards, reflects Chandigarh University’s commitment to advancing his scientific legacy, recognising excellence and inspiring the next generation of Indian researchers.”

The Research Chair will provide an annual research grant of ₹1 crore to promote scientific excellence through three dedicated awards: the Narinder Singh Kapany Award for Excellence in Physics, ‘CU Physics Excellence Awards for Best Research Publication’ and ‘CU Physics Excellence Awards for Best Patent’.”

The first edition of these awards was conferred during the birth centenary celebration, with Eminent Researcher Dr Ajoy Ghatak, Prof. Emeritus, IIT Delhi receiving the Narinder Singh Kapany Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Physics. Professor Ajoy K. Ghatak is an internationally acclaimed physicist whose seminal contributions to fibre optics, integrated optics and photonics have advanced the understanding and applications of light. Through pioneering research, influential publications and acclaimed textbooks, Professor Ghatak has advanced fibre optics and photonics, carrying forward Dr Narinder Singh Kapany’s scientific legacy while inspiring generations of physicists.

On this occasion, five ‘CU Physics Excellence Awards for Best Patent’ were presented to five best patents by Dr. Ritu Gupta and Dr. Sandeep Kaur for their ‘Multi-functional Optical Antenna System for Parallel FSO-VLC Communication and Nano-biosignal Monitoring’; Shonak Bansal and Anupama for a ‘Self-powered Real-time Health Monitoring System using Nanowire Photodetectors’, Aditya Bhatnagar and Dr. Sanjeev Saini for ‘Multifunctional Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Luminescent Nanomaterials and a Method for Their Preparation’, Mahima Purohit and Dr. Ruchi Bharti for a ‘Biodegradable, Water-resistant Smart Packaging Film for Fluorescence-based Detection of Food Spoilage’ and Ashit Tripathi, Sachitanand Singh, Iqra Jamal Khan, Sanskruti Singh, Alok Gautam, Mahak received the award for a ‘Handheld Wireless OCT and Fundus Imaging Device’.

‘CU Physics Excellence Awards for Best Research Publication’ were conferred on eight faculty members and students. Ravikant from department of physics was conferrred upon for ‘CU Excellence Award for Research’ for his publication titled Nitrogen  doped zinc oxide to enhance dielectric characteristics of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) derived nanocomposites in composites communivations. Apart from him the other awardees were Shivani Singla (Physics Department) for “Optimising the Neodymium Concentration in Sodium Borate Glass for Enhanced Photoluminescent and Mechanical Behaviour” in Ceramics International (Q1); Sumit Bhardwaj (Physics Department) for “Structural, Optical and Photocatalytic Properties of Ce-Doped Ni-Zn Ferrite Nanoparticles”, in Ceramics International (Q1);  Ruby Priya (Department of Physics) for “Deconvoluting Capacitive and Diffusive Contributions in Cu-Doped SnO₂ Nanoparticles for Enhanced Double-Layer Capacitance and Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Materials Today Communications (Q1);  Akhil Saxena, (Chemistry) for “Mechanistic Elucidation of Persicaria maculosa Gray Extract as a Corrosion Inhibitor: Adsorption, Electrochemical Behavior, and DFT Validation”, published in South African Journal of Chemical Engineering; Harvinder Singh Sohal (Chemistry deoartment), for “Synergistic Adsorptive-Photocatalytic Degradation of Tartrazine Using Mn-Modified Fe₃O₄/Lignocellulose Magnetic Nanocomposites”, published in International Journal of Biological Macromolecules (Q1); Surjeet Chahal, for “Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor for Dopamine Detection Based on CeO₂ Nanorod and ZnO Nanosheet” in Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics (Q2) and Dr. Sanjeev Kumar from Department of Physics, for “1 Monolinoleoylglycerol and 3,4-Dihydroxymandelic Acids-Mediated ZnO for Antibiotic Degradation and Anticancer Activity”, published in Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering (Q1).

During the birth centenary celebrations, a message shared by Kiran Kaur Kapany, the daughter of Dr Narinder Kapany was also read out where she said that her father’s journey from a small town in Punjab to transforming the world through fibre optics shows that a big idea can start anywhere. “To students, stay curious, ask questions and be proud of who you are. My heartfelt gratitude to Chandigarh University for honouring my father and family,” added Kapany.

Under the Best Patent Excellence Award for research publication and best patent, the five best patents granted each year will be selected for research grants to support product development and the conversion of patented innovations into practical applications. Similarly, the Best Research Paper Award will recognise the top 10 research publications annually by Chandigarh University students and faculty members in high-impact Q1 and Q2 journals, based on their quality, originality and research impact.

About Chandigarh University

Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: https://www.cuchd.in/

Photo: https://mmx.prnewswire.com/media/MS2024922/Press-Pic-001-University-Ceremony-and-Citation-Portrait-ID-b5a6d7d2dc04.jpg?id=OA3050946&token=iWkaN-J45hqhHA8w8HEUC2sBtm9vToA_IRNI5EobK5G3zac3CniYqb0XSf9KGA

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/chandigarh-university-commemorates-father-of-fibre-optics-dr-narinder-singh-kapanys-100th-birth-anniversary-with-indias-first-research-chair-in-his-name-announces-annual-grant-of-1-crore-for-scientific-research-302925572.html

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Technology

Dental Expert Dr. Kari Sakurai Explains Early Tooth Decay and Enamel Remineralization in HelloNation

Published

20 minutes ago

on

November 2, 2026

By

The Article Explains When Early Enamel Damage May Be Reversed and When a Filling Becomes Necessary

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Can early cavities be reversed before a filling? HelloNation has published an article in which Dr. Kari Sakurai, dental expert at Pacific View Smile Center, answers this by explaining how early tooth decay can sometimes be addressed before permanent damage develops.

The article explains that early tooth decay does not always require an immediate filling. During the earliest stage, decay may involve mineral loss from tooth enamel without creating a physical hole. When the enamel support structure remains intact, the tooth may still regain lost minerals.

According to the article, dentists often call this process enamel demineralization. Bacteria in the mouth produce acids that remove calcium, phosphate, and other minerals from tooth enamel. Frequent exposure to sugars and fermentable carbohydrates can increase these acid attacks and contribute to continued mineral loss.

The HelloNation article notes that a white or chalky area can be an early sign of enamel changes. At this point, the surface may not have collapsed into a cavity. Dental Expert Dr. Kari Sakurai helps explain why recognizing this stage matters.

The article describes fluoride toothpaste as an important tool for supporting enamel remineralization. Fluoride can help strengthen weakened enamel and encourage minerals to return to affected areas. Depending on a person’s cavity risk, a dentist may also recommend professional fluoride treatments or other fluoride products.

According to the article, saliva also supports natural repair. It helps wash away food particles, reduce harmful acids, and carry calcium and phosphate back to tooth surfaces. These functions create conditions that may help slow or reverse early tooth decay before permanent enamel damage occurs.

The article also discusses dry mouth as a factor that can interfere with this protection. Medications, health conditions, and lifestyle factors may reduce saliva production. With less saliva available to control acids and restore minerals, teeth may face a greater risk of developing cavities.

Eating habits also play a role. The article explains that frequent sugary snacks and drinks repeatedly expose teeth to acids. Reducing how often teeth encounter sugar gives saliva more time to restore a healthier oral environment between meals.

Daily oral hygiene also matters. Brushing twice each day with fluoride toothpaste helps manage plaque while supporting tooth enamel. Cleaning between teeth reaches areas brushing may miss, while regular dental care can identify changes before symptoms appear.

The article emphasizes that enamel remineralization has clear limits. Once decay breaks through the enamel surface and creates a true cavity, missing tooth structure cannot naturally grow back. A filling or another professional treatment may then be necessary to restore the damaged tooth.

Pain alone cannot reliably show how far decay has progressed. The article notes that some cavities cause no discomfort until they become deeper. A dental examination, sometimes supported by dental X-rays, can help determine whether the enamel remains intact or permanent damage has occurred.

The HelloNation article concludes that the distinction between reversible mineral loss and a cavity depends largely on the condition of the enamel surface. Fluoride, saliva, consistent oral hygiene, and reduced sugar frequency can support enamel during its earliest stages. Dental Expert Dr. Kari Sakurai helps explain these factors for readers considering how early dental care may affect treatment needs.

Can Early Cavities Be Reversed Before a Filling? Features insights from Dr. Kari Sakurai, a dental expert in Santa Monica, California, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dental-expert-dr-kari-sakurai-explains-early-tooth-decay-and-enamel-remineralization-in-hellonation-302926634.html

SOURCE HelloNation

Continue Reading

Technology

HelloNation Examines Older Homes’ Heating Efficiency With Insights From HVAC Expert Reid Sittler

Published

20 minutes ago

on

November 2, 2026

By

The article explains practical ways to reduce heat loss and improve comfort in older homes in Massillon.

MASSILLON, Ohio, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What steps can homeowners take to improve comfort and reduce energy use in aging houses? HelloNation has published the answer in an article exploring the heating efficiency of older homes, with insights from HVAC Expert Reid Sittler of Massillon, Ohio.

Quality Heating & Cooling’s HVAC Expert Reid Sittler explains that many older properties face heating-efficiency challenges due to outdated construction methods and materials. It notes that heat loss in older houses often begins with insufficient insulation, especially in attics, walls, and crawl spaces. Without an effective barrier, warm air escapes easily, making heating systems work harder to maintain indoor comfort.

The article explains how an insulation upgrade can significantly improve the heating efficiency of older homes by slowing the transfer of heat to colder outdoor areas. By adding or replacing insulation in key areas of the home, homeowners can retain more heat and reduce overall energy use. HVAC Expert insights featured in the article emphasize that addressing insulation first often creates a strong foundation for other efficiency improvements.

Air leaks sealing is another major focus of the article. Small openings around windows, doors, and utility lines allow cold air to enter and warm air to escape, contributing to the heat loss that older houses commonly experience. The article notes that air leaks sealing with caulk or weatherstripping is a cost-effective way to improve indoor temperature stability without requiring major renovations.

Windows also play a role in the heating efficiency of older homes. The article explains that single-pane or poorly sealed windows allow more heat transfer than modern designs. While a full replacement may not always be necessary, adding storm windows or thermal coverings can help reduce heat loss in older houses during colder months.

Heating system performance is another key factor discussed in the article. Older furnaces often operate at lower efficiency levels, increasing energy use over time. Regular maintenance helps, but the article explains that a furnace upgrade may be worth considering when systems reach 15 to 20 years of age. A high-efficiency furnace can convert more fuel into usable heat, improving overall system performance.

The article also highlights that a furnace upgrade should be evaluated alongside other improvements, such as insulation upgrades and air-leak sealing. In some cases, these combined efforts can deliver benefits similar to those of a high-efficiency furnace alone. HVAC Expert perspectives in the article reinforce the importance of taking a balanced approach to home efficiency.

Zoning controls are presented as another strategy to improve comfort. The article explains that zoning controls allow homeowners to divide the house into separate heating areas, directing warmth where it is needed most. This approach helps reduce energy waste and improve heating efficiency in older homes, particularly in larger or multi-level homes.

Quality Heating & Cooling’s HVAC Expert Reid Sittler emphasizes that improving the heating efficiency of older homes requires addressing multiple factors simultaneously. Insulation upgrades, air-leak sealing, furnace upgrades, and zoning controls all help reduce the heat loss that older houses commonly experience. When combined, these steps can create a more consistent indoor environment and better energy management.

In conclusion, How can older Massillon homes improve heating efficiency? features insights from Quality Heating & Cooling’s HVAC Expert, Reid Sittler of Massillon, Ohio, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hellonation-examines-older-homes-heating-efficiency-with-insights-from-hvac-expert-reid-sittler-302922160.html

SOURCE HelloNation

Continue Reading

Technology

Church Tech Company, Subsplash Gives $8.4 Million Back to Churches through GrowCurve

Published

20 minutes ago

on

November 2, 2026

By

Subsplash Giving’s GrowCurve program automatically lowers processing rates as giving grows, with no monthly fees and no rate negotiation.

DALLAS, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Subsplash, the leading church engagement platform trusted by 21,000+ churches and ministries, today announced it has given $8.4 million back to churches since 2016 through GrowCurve, the exclusive rate reduction program built into Subsplash Giving™. GrowCurve automatically lowers a church’s processing rate as its giving volume grows, so churches never have to negotiate for a better rate.

“Every dollar we give back is a dollar churches can put toward their people & their mission.” —Tim Turner, CEO & Founder

Most churches now offer digital giving options, but Subsplash is the only church giving provider that publicly guarantees automatically lower rates as giving grows. Subsplash Giving also charges no monthly fees.

“Every dollar we give back through GrowCurve is a dollar churches can put toward their people and their mission. $8.4 million is an awesome milestone, and we’re grateful that churches trust us to be their partner in ministry. The Great Commission—let’s go!” shared Tim Turner, CEO and founder of Subsplash.

Lower processing costs show up in church budgets, too. “We saved over $30,000 in the first year by switching to Subsplash,” said Mitchell Newholt, Creative & Production Director, New Life Church, Everett, WA.

Since it launched in 2016, Subsplash Giving has grown well beyond card and ACH gifts. Churches can now accept recurring donations, stock, cryptocurrency, donor-advised fund (DAF) gifts, and qualified charitable distribution (QCD) gifts. They can offer tap-to-give in person with Subsplash Tap discs, prompt viewers to give during live streams, and run campaigns and pledges from the Subsplash Dashboard.

Churches use these tools for projects big and small. Ethiopian Evangelical Church in Minnesota (EECMN), a St. Paul congregation of about 450 members, used Subsplash Giving to run a building campaign that brought in more than $500,000 in gifts and pledges toward a new church home within a few months. Their Digital Ministry Leader, Melaku Bartolomeos, explained, “The Subsplash platform has been a blessing for us. I don’t know why any church wouldn’t use it, honestly. We may not have accomplished what we did without it.”

Subsplash is also building church-focused AI tools that put giving data to work. Trends AI brings giving, people, and attendance data into one place, so church leaders can ask questions about giving trends in plain language. With Subsplash Workflows, staff can set up a first-time donor follow-up that gives every new giver an assigned next step.

Giving typically rises at year-end. With Subsplash Giving, donors can give in the app, on the church website, by text, with a tap, and during live streams. Learn more about Subsplash Giving.

ABOUT SUBSPLASH:
Subsplash is an industry leader in SaaS, fintech, and AI with an award-winning digital engagement platform used by over 21,000 leading churches and ministries around the world. Subsplash is passionate about helping mission-minded organizations engage their audiences through centralized, easy-to-manage systems. As the creators of the Ultimate Engagement Platform™, they’re dedicated to delivering delight to billions of people through custom mobile apps, AI, websites, live streaming, media hosting and delivery, online giving, events, church management, communication tools, and more. Additional information about Subsplash is available at www.subsplash.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/church-tech-company-subsplash-gives-8-4-million-back-to-churches-through-growcurve-302926640.html

SOURCE Subsplash

Continue Reading

Trending