Intestinal bacteria cause behavioural changes

Toronto: Intestinal bacteria affect human brains leading to behavioural changes, a recent research has revealed.

McMaster University researchers have come up with the first ever evidence to show that some intestinal bugs do affect brain chemistry and behaviour.

"The exciting results provide stimulus for further investigating a microbial component to the causation of behavioural illnesses," said Stephen Collins, professor of medicine at McMasters.

The findings are important because several common types of gastro diseases, including irritable bowel syndrome, are attributed to anxiety or depression. Besides, some psychiatric disorders, such as late onset autism, may also be linked with abnormal bacterial content in the gut, the journal Gastroenterology reports.

Collins and Premysl Bercik, assistant professor of medicine, undertook the research at the Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, according to a McMasters statement.

The researchers also conducted experiments on healthy adult mice which produced behavioural changes on being subjected to oral antibiotics while their normal behaviour returned when antibiotics doses were stopped, Collins said
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Facebook turned into tool for identifying fish

Toronto: Facebook is well-known for connecting friends, publicising events and allowing people ample space for themselves. But recently, a scientist conducted a fish survey using the social networking tool.

In January, doctoral candidate Devin Bloom of the University of Toronto helped conduct the first ichthyological (fish) survey on Guyana's remote Cuyuni River.

Led by Oregon State University's Brian Sidlauskas, the goal was to find which species of fish live in the Cuyuni and get a good estimate of their abundance, according to a Toronto statement.

During the survey, Bloom and the research team spent two weeks catching as many fish as they could. They even slept in makeshift jungle camps. But after collecting more than 5,000 specimens, the team had a big problem.

In order to get the fish out of the country, the research team needed an accurate count of each species and provide a detailed report to the Guyanese government.

Since the team had to return to North America as soon as possible, they had just a few days to identify thousands of fish specimens.

That's when Bloom, who isn't exactly the most tech-savvy guy out there, suggested Facebook. Sidlauskas loved the idea, so he uploaded photos of each species.

And in less than 24 hours, their network of friends -- many of whom hold PhDs in ichthyology and are "diehard fish-heads" -- had identified almost every specimen.

With 5,000 identifications in hand, the team was able to deliver their results to the government and return home on schedule.

The team's novel use of Facebook to accurately crowdsource scientific data could change the way academics view social networking.

It has certainly led Bloom to change his mind about the value of online tools. "Social networking is so powerful," he says, "and scientists should be using it more to connect with the world-at-large." 

Scientists succeed in ’decoding’ brainwaves

London: One of the most enduring sci-fi fantasies -- a 'mind-reading machine' that can display mental images -- is now a step closer to reality after scientists were able to decode brain signals relating to vision.

Researchers from the University of Glasgow showed volunteers images of people's faces displaying different emotions such as happiness, fear and surprise.

In a series of trials, parts of the images were randomly covered so that, for example, only the eyes or mouth were visible, reports the journal Public Library of Science Biology.

Participants were then asked to identify the emotion being displayed while electrodes attached to the scalp measured the volunteers' brainwaves, the Daily Mail reports.

The scientists were able to show that brainwaves varied greatly according to which part of the face was being looked at.

'Beta' waves, with a frequency of 12 hertz, carried information about the eyes, while four hertz 'theta' waves were linked to the mouth.

Information was also encoded by the phase, or timing, of the brainwave, and less so by its amplitude, or strength.

Professor Philippe Schyns of Glasglow, who led the study, said: "It's a bit like unlocking a scrambled television channel. Before, we could detect the signal but couldn't watch the content - now we can."

Schyns said the study revealed how the brain tuned into different brainwave patterns to code different visual features.

"It is a bit like radiowaves coding different radio stations at different frequency bands," he added. "This work has huge potential in the development of brain-computer interfaces.
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IBM and Innovation Journey of 100 Years

In January 2011, International Business Machines (IBM) announced that its inventors received a record 5,896 U.S. patents in 2010, marking the 18th consecutive year it has topped the list of the world’s most inventive companies. IBM became the first company to be granted as many as 5,000 U.S. patents in a single year. It took Big Blue’s inventors more than 50 years to receive their first 5,000 patents after the company was established in 1911. Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year (1911-2011), IBM has consistently pursued patents for inventions that translate into real-world solutions that make systems, processes and infrastructures more efficient andproductive. The first patent IBM received in 1911 was related to punched-card tabulation.

In 2010, IBM received patentsfor a range of inventions such as a method for gathering, analyzing, and processing patient information
from multiple data sources to provide more effective diagnoses of medical conditions; a system for predicting traffic conditions based on information exchanged over short-range wireless communications; and a technology advancement for enabling computer chips to communicate using pulses of light instead of electrical signals, which can deliver increased performance of computing systems.

More than 7,000 IBM inventors residing in 46 different U.S. states and 29 countries generated the company's record-breaking 2010 patent tally. Inventors residing outside the U.S. contributed to more than 22% of its patents in 2010. IBM’s 2010 patent total nearly exceeded the combined patents of Microsoft, Hewlett-Packard, Oracle, EMC, and Google.

Integrated M.Sc Programmes at Anna University

Applications have been invited for admission to following M.Sc. Five years Integrated Degree Programme offered at College of Engineering Guindy Campus, Anna University, for the academic year 2011-2012.
(1) M.Sc.(Computer Science - Self-Supporting)/M.Sc. (Information Technology - Self-Supporting) and
(2) M.Sc. (Electronic Media - Self-Supporting)
ELIGIBILITY:(1) M.Sc. (Computer Science) / M.Sc. (Information Technology)
A pass in the H.Sc. (Academic) or equivalent in the first appearance itself, with Mathematics, Physics & Chemistry as three of the four subjects of study prescribed under Part III with minimum eligibility marks.
(2) M.Sc. (Electronic Media)
A pass in the H.Sc. of 10+2 curriculum of any group under Part III (or) its equivalent.
AGE LIMIT: The candidate shall not have completed 21 years of age as on 1st July 2011. The age restriction is relaxable by 3 years for SC/SCA/ST candidates belonging to Tamil Nadu.
APPLICATIONS:Application can be obtained:
IN PERSON by cash or DD for Rs.600/- (Rs.300/- for SC/SCA/ST candidates belonging to Tamil Nadu) towards registration fee at Centre for Admissions, Anna University.
THROUGH WEBSITE: Application form can be downloaded from the websitewww.annauniv.edu [link: http://www.annauniv.edu/msc5years/application.pdf] and send it along with DD for Rs.600/- (Rs.300/- for SC/SCA/ST candidates belonging to Tamil Nadu).
Tamil Nadu SC/SCA/ST candidates should produce photo copy of the permanent community certificate (in card format) for availing registration fee concession.
Demand Drafts should be drawn in favour of ‘The Director (Admissions), Anna University”, payable at Chennai obtained from any nationalised bank on or after 15.5.2011
Completed application should be submitted to the Director (Admissions), Centre for Admissions, Anna University, Chennai–600025 on or before 6.6.2011 at 5.30 p.m.

Kerala Plus Two : Record Pass Percentage

The results of Kerala Higher Secondary Examinarions are out. 82.25 pc students passed in the Examination with eligibility for higher studies. Out of the 276115 students who appeared for the examination through 1697 schools, 227112 qualified for higher studies. 2795 students got  A+ grade in all subjects. Last year the percentage of candidates eligible for higher studies was 74.97.

The Higher Secondary Examination results of Scheme I candidates are determined by combining the scores of both first and second year examinations.

Out of 149574 girls, 130168 (87.02%) girls and out of 126541 boys, 96944 (76.61%) boys qualified for higher studies.

In Science stream out of 144366 students, 120399 are eligible for higher studies (83.40%). In Humanities out of 56623 students, 44119 are eligible for higher studies (77.92%). In Commerce, out of 75126 students 62594 are eligible for higher studies (83.32%).

This year double valuation was conducted for the subjects Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics and a third valuation for scripts that had a difference of more than 10% of maximum marks in the first two valuations.

Eligibility for higher studies is D + grade or above for all six subjects with 30 % scores in theory alone and 30% scores in theory, practical evaluation and continuous Evaluation taken together.

Thrissur district bags the highest pass percentage (88.93) while Kasaragod district is the one with the lowest pass percentage (74.68 ). Ernakulam is the district with the highest number of A+ grade students in all subjects with 373 students.

St Marys Higher Secondary School, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram with 693 students is the school to present the highest number of candidates for the exam, with a pass percentage of 90.47, followed by Govt HSS for Girls, Cotton Hill, Thiruvananthapuram (591 Candidates – 93.23% pass) and SVHSS, Palemed, Malappuram ( 548-students – 85.94%) .

Technical Schools

2257students appeared for the higher secondary examination from 24 Technical schools. 1727 students passed ( 76.52 pc).

Examinations

Students under Scheme I and Scheme II were evaluated based on the scores obtained by them in Continuous Evaluation, Practical Evaluation and Terminal Evaluation.

The examination results were determined by combining the scores obtained by the candidates in the first and second year examinations. The first year scores obtained by the candidates at the First Year Higher Secondary examination conducted during 15th March 2010 to 27th March 2010 and the First Year Improvement Examination conducted from 22nd September to 29th September 2010 were reckoned for finalizing the results.

Grace Marks

Grace marks are awarded to 23360 students with proficiency in extra curricular activities such as state youth festival, from NCC, sports, Shastra Melas , Kalotsavams and NSS. The grace marks range from 2 to 25 percentage of the maximum scores. Grace marks are awarded to the students for the year in which the student had participated and achieved the required eligibility. (First/Second Year).The Grace marks for NSS and NCC are awarded at the end of Second Year by considering the combined scores of first and second year.

Results

Students can down load their total score sheets from the websiteswww.kerala.gov.in, www.dhsekerala.gov.in, www.keralaresults.nic.in,www.results.itschool.gov.in, www.cdit.org, www.examresults.kerala.gov.in,www.prd.kerala.gov.in, www.results.nic.in, www.educationkerala.gov.in.  and the schools can take copies of the combined results of their school. Copies of marklists will be available in the PORTAL. Measures are taken to down load the results without any delay. Arrangements are made to send the results by SMS through mobile phones of various service providers by IT mission.

Certificate

The scores obtained for CE, TE and PE for both the years and the combined score and grade will be shown in the certificate. It will also show whether grace marks are awarded to the students. The distribution of certificates through the schools will be completed by the middle of June. There will be facilities to issue provisional certificates and to attest the copies of mark lists taken from internet.

Migration Certificate

Migration certificates will be issued from the Directorate to those students who want to go for higher studies outside Kerala. The application in the prescribed form with fee of Rs. 50/-shall be submitted in the schools where the students had appeared for the examination. The application for the previous year students and that for duplicate certificates will be received in the Directorate duly forwarded by the concerned Principals.

Best Body Language for a Job Interview

Body language can speak more about a candidate than his or her professional references or resume. How a person uses the space they fill will show an employer how that candidate feels about themselves, the job they are interviewing for, and their intercommunication abilities. By being conscious of what they’re doing while they’re talking, job applicants can improve their presence in an interview setting and make a truly lasting impression on their prospective employer.

In general, candidates don’t want to come off as bored or unprofessional during the interview. Crossing one’s legs exudes a sense of being bored or uncomfortable. Scratching any part of the body gives the message that the applicant is unclean or has their attention elsewhere. Leaning towards the door, in essence, show the interviewer that the candidate has a deep desire to be anywhere but in that office—this will do nothing but hurt the individual’s chances of obtaining the job. Slouching in one’s seat gives the message that the applicant is a little too relaxed and will not preform up to task. Finally, candidates should never stare blankly at the interviewer; besides giving the impression of not knowing anything, a blank stare is the natural expression that most adopt when trying to distance themselves from a situation. This will, in essence, show the interview that the candidate wants to distance themselves from the interview.

However, showing the right body language is just as easy as having a situational awareness about oneself. Sitting up straight and leaning forward helps the candidate in two ways—it shows their interest in whatever the interviewer is saying while showing that applicant is in complete agreement in whatever is being said. Keeping an interested expression and nodding during the interview will further show the applicant’s interest in both the position and the content of what the interviewer is speaking about. Finally, candidates should smile whenever they speak. Besides exuding a sense of self confidence, smiling during an interview will show that the applicant truly enjoys and is generally interested in the work that he or she is interviewing for.

If one wants to make the best impression that they can, mastering the art of perfect interview body language is crucial. In short, individuals should not close themselves off or give off an impression of being disinterested, while good body language comes in the form of showing that the candidate enjoys the interview process and is genuinely interested in the job that he or she may be doing.

Kerala Uty B.Tech: Inter-College transfer

Kerala University has invited applications on plain paper from regular students (showing the complete address and phone number of the student) of Engineering Colleges within the State of Kerala for transfer to the 3rd Semester in the Engineering Colleges affiliated to Kerala University, during the year 2011-12.

Applicant should have completed 1st and 2nd Semester B.Tech Degree Course of their University and should be eligible for promotion to the Third Semester class. Transfers will be given only between the institutions of identical category and fee structure. The category of seat and tuition fees should be clearly specified in the application form.

Those getting transferred have to clear the 1st and 2nd Semester Examination in the parent University itself. However, they have to pass the additional papers/subjects as may be fixed by Kerala University, with reference to the Scheme and Syllabus of Kerala University.

Applicants should download the Poforma relating to the transfer, fromhttp://www.keralauniversity.ac.in/images/Downloads1/transfer_proforma.pdf  and send it duly filled in and attested by the Principal, along with the request for transfer.  The application should be accompanied by (i) Proforma duly filled and attested by the Principal (ii) attested copy of the Rank Certificate at the Entrance Examination 2010 (iii) attested copy of Hall ticket for the S1 & S2 B.Tech Degree Examination (iv) Pay-in-slip of Rs.100/- remitted at the Kerala University cash counter or a Demand Draft of Rs.110/- drawn in favour of the Finance Officer, University of Kerala from SBI/SBT/District Co-operative Bank and payable at Service Branch, Thiruvananthapuram towards processing fee. SC/ST applicants should attach a Certificate to prove that he/she belongs to the SC/ST Community.

Applications not recommended and forwarded by the Principal of the College in which the candidate is studying will not be entertained. Filled Proforma, application for transfer and the necessary documents should reach ‘The Registrar, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram-695 034’, on or before 15.06.2011.

Best Skills to Put on a Resume

With employment becoming increasingly more difficult to attain, many individuals are lost as to what are the best skills for a resume. In essence, it should be noted that a resume is the prospective employer’s first glance at a candidate. It’s extremely objective, and should only showcase the best abilities and experiences that the candidate has to offer. Applicants should be able to look into their past experiences and find the best skills and abilities that they have gained from previous jobs, internships, and academic pursuits.

An applicant’s hard skills are the most important to display on a resume. These include calculation abilities, the capacity to use a computer, analytical skills, and any other industry-specific traits. Hard skills are usually gained through previous work experiences, though they can also be obtained through classes and internships. Hard skills are necessary to determine how qualified a candidate is for the job that he or she is applying for. Capitalizing on hard skills shows that the job applicant is capable and qualified to thrive in that specific work environment, as well as being specialized in a certain type of task. An applicant’s hard skills helps the employer determine what work would suit the applicant best, as well as whether or not they’re a good fit for the company at all.

Soft skills, while equally important, are slightly more difficult to ascertain from looking at a resume alone. These include the transferable skills, such as being able to work in a team, having the capacity to adapt to a new work environment, or having strong interpersonal communication skills. If the hard skills show how qualified the candidate is, the soft skills are a measure of how good of an overall worker the applicant is. Though it is important to put these skills on a resume, it’s important to supplement this information with professional references and recommendation letters from past working and internship experiences.

Determining what skills to put on a resume is no easy task, especially with the way that the job market currently is. Employers are looking for a variety of qualifications, and it’s easy to get lost in the ambiguity of what a candidate must really have. However, the best thing that interested parties can do is to capitalize on both their hard and soft skills to show that they can be a qualified, diligent, and talented addition to any work force.

Engg admission to begin by May-end

The consortium of 11 Catholic engineering colleges in Kerala will take only the score of the students in the engineering entrance examination (KEAM-2011),  along with Plus Two/Class XII marks  to prepare the ranklist for admission to their engineering seats. They will ignore the ranks released by the CEE by June 25.

The Commissioner of Entrance Examination (CEE) is expected to release the score of candidates in the engineering entrance along with medical entrance ranks before May 25.  The engineering rank will be decided by the CEE by giving 50 percent weightage to entrance score and 50 percent weightage to the qualifying examination mark, using statistical methods of mean and standard deviation.

It is reliably learnt that Catholic engineering colleges will go it alone in the admission to their BTech courses this time also without signing any agreement with either the present or the new government.  Moreover they wouldn't effect any hike in their fees. A fee of Rs 75, 000 per year and a refundable deposit of Rs 1 lakh was charged by the Catholic engineering colleges for each BTech seat last year and the same will be applicable this year too for 85 percent seats. However 10 seats in each college will be given to Below Poverty Line (BPL) students as 100 per cent scholarship (free). The rest 15 percent will be NRI quota.  There is a one time development fee of $6000 and and normal fee for NRI candidates. Bishop Jerome Institutions, Kollam is the new addition to the Catholic engineering colleges.

The other existing colleges are:
1 Amal Jyothi College of Engineering, Kanjirappally.
2.Jyothi College of Engineering, Cheruthuruthy
3.Marian College of Engineering, Kazhakkoottam
4.Lourde Matha College of Science and Technology, Trivandrum
5.Mar Baselios College of Engineering, Nalanchira, Trivandrum
6.Rajagiri School of Engineering  and Technology, Kakkanad, Ernakulam
7.Viswajyothi College of Engineering and Technology, Muvattupuzha
8.St Joseph College of Engineering and Technology, Pala
9. Sahrudaya College of Engineering, Kodakara, Thrissur
10.Vimal Jyothi College of Engineering, Chemperi, Kannur

The Catholic engineering colleges do not expect any hurdles from the side of admission supervisory committee, the Justice P A Muhammed Committee, in its admission process. They have submitted their prospectus for the approval of the committee and are yet to hear anything from the committee. Last year the committee did not interfere with Catholic engineering college admission and with no change in the admission conditions, the consortium does not expect any hurdles from the committee. In the case of medical admission, the committee had issued directions to the Christian managements and hence they went to court and secured a favourable verdict. Since no such situation is existing related to engineering admission, the Catholic colleges have not gone to court so far.

Meanwhile it is understood that the Kerala Self Fiancing Engineering College Managements Association (KSFECMA) established by GPC Nayar representing 73 engineering colleges, is moving towards signing an agreement with the next government for seat-sharing, as was done last year. There will not be any fee hike and there is expected to be no change in the conditions either, an association leader said.

However they are considering making admission to the management seats on the basis of the entrance score and qualifying examination marks as is done by the Christian managements, to avoid delay, since the ranklist prepared by the CEE would be out only by June 25. However no final decision has been taken on this.

Last year there was a tuition fee of Rs 35,000 and a caution deposit of Rs 10,000 in merit seats in the SF engineering colleges coming under KSFECMA. This was effected in their 50 percent seats after the organisation entered into an agreement with the State Government.

Accordingly Rs 99,000 was fixed as annual tuition fee for each management seat and Rs 25,000 to be paid annually as workshop charges apart from a refundable interest-free deposit of Rs 1,50,000. The management seat quota was fixed as 35 percent.

The fee for 15 percent NRI quota was put at Rs 1.5 lakh plus 25,000 workshop charges and Rs 1.5 lakh refundable interest-free deposit. This year too this is expected to continue since the association has not asked for any hike.

The member colleges of KSFECMA can be visited at http://ksfecma.com/Default.aspx

Emerging trends in career market

Usually economic status of a country is rated based upon GDP, rate of inflation and other economic matrices. But country’s economic status and placement situation can also be judged by the placement scenes at the premier educational institutions. Recently held placement in the premier B Schools of the country like IIMs were like IPL auction sales! Candidates were given placement offers with very attractive pay packages.  

Placement situation in the country during 2010-11 is very bright. Even though during economic recession, there was a reduction in increment levels from 13.3% to 6.6 % during 2008, the current situation is entirely different. All private and PSUs have eagerly started recruiting skilled and talented professionals for augmenting production. During the pre- recession period, campus recruitment was around 65 percent in IT and ITeS sectors.  But during recession it had come down to 25 percent and increment level reduced from 13.3% to 6.6 % during 2008. Now it started moving up and the campus recruitment is around 40 percent in the country. Average increment level expected during 2010-11 will be 10.6 %.

Some of the potential areas are Banking, Financial Services, Insurance, Education, Training, Consultancy, Health care, Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, IT, ITeS, Real Estate, Construction, Trade, Transport, Manufacturing, Energy, Automotives, FMCG, Engineering, Procurement, Retail industry and Agribusiness.

Research studies done by different HR services research agencies like MAFOI, NASSCOM, ASSOCHAM, CRISIL, Deutsche bank and Hewitt revealed that Indian career market will exhibit quantum jump and by 2020 there will be spectacular changes in key sectors like energy, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, project engineering, telecom, IT, ITeS, Engineering services, Banking, Financial Services, Insurance, Healthcare, Agribusiness, Manufacturing, Hospitality, Trade, Tourism and transport.

Some of the salient features in different sectors are as follows.

Energy (Oil, Gas, Coal & Power)

India has acquired the status of 5th largest power generation capacity in world. Oil and gas requirement will be expected to increase from 186.54 million tonnes during 2010-11to 253.58 million tonnes during 2011-12.

There is huge demand for skilled workers in the Oil and Gas industry. Since stiff competition is occurring between Private and PSU units, PSUs have aggressively started revising their HR policies.

Infrastructure              
Infrastructure is one of the sectors least affected during recession. 450$ US Billion investment is expected to reach the country by 2012. Ports, Highways, Airports and other amenities are the basic drive behind this growth.

Project Engineering

Global engineering services outsourcing market will reach 150-215 US Billion $ by 2020. Of which India’s share will increase from 12% to 25%-30% . Engineering will become the biggest sector after IT and ITeS in the country.

Pharmaceuticals

By 2015 Indian Pharmaceutical industry will reach 20 Billion US$ turnover. There is very good potential for generic drug market in the country. Indian Pharma industry employs quality manpower and excels from low cost of production, world class technology and research.

Retail Industry

India ranks fifth among the largest retail industries in the world. By 2012-2013 the turnover will reach 573 billion US$ from 405 billion US$(2010-11). Increase in standard of living creates spectrum of opportunities in the retail industry. FDI and subsequent development in the retail industry will seek more man power from Tier 1 and 2 cities.

Telecom

India is the third largest country in Telecom sector globally after China and USA. Country’s mobile subscribers will be around 5 % of the world market by 2013-14. Rural penetration coupled with 3G technology and competition will facilitate better career prospects in this sector.

Banking, Finance and Insurance

Public sector banks are trying to open overseas markets. Government of India started permitting private companies to start banks in the country. Some of the potential areas are Asset management, Broking, Investment and Insurance. All Public and private sector banks require skilled professionals in the areas of finance, banking, marketing and HRD management.

Education, Training and Consultancy         
As a sequel to globalization, global village concept is acquiring momentum in the country. Education, training and consultancy are some of the key sectors which can drive more employment in the country. These sectors are expected to create 97000 jobs during 2010-2011. Educational consultancy services are acquiring more importance in the country. In this post recession period companies are more keen to recruit talented professionals in the financial sector. Moreover the bill to permit foreign educational institutions to start campuses in India is in the final phase.  

Hospitality and Travel

This is one of the fastest growing segments in the world. Four percent reduction in turnover was recorded in Hospitality and travel during 2009 in the country. But during 2005-10 this sector had exhibited 13% growth. Five star hotels and real estate business further augmented growth in these sectors.

Expected Salary hike for different sectors during the year 2010-11 are as follows.

Manufacturing-12.8%, Services-12.1%, Telecom-12.2% and Hospitality-12.7%.  India has higher rate of career prospects of +39%; whereas countries like Barazil+38%, Australia +22% and Singapore+20% 
                                    
Twelve  fastest growing jobs projected upto 2018 by US Bureau for labour statistics are Biomedical engineers, Network systems and data communication analysts, financial examiners, medical scientists except epidemiologists, Physician assistants, Biochemists and biophysicists, Veterinarians, Athletic trainers, Computer software engineers, applications, system software, food technologists and Environmental engineers.

Research must focus on sustainability: Experts

Very little money is spent on research on the sustainable use of natural resources compared to what is spent on studies for their exploitation, experts said here Sunday, adding that identification of research priorities is the key to long-term development.

"Worldwide, about 6,000 times more expenditure is made on research and development for the exploitation of natural resources than the costs made on sustainable development of resources," B.K Agarwala, pro vice chancellor of Tripura (Central) University, said.

He was speaking at a seminar organised by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) here.

"Natural resources are now depleting at a faster rate and new kinds of environmental threats are looming large," he added.

The two-day seminar on "identification of research priorities in Tripura", which began Sunday, was organised to promote research on relevant issues to achieve inclusive growth in Tripura and to pursue the challenges faced in varied fields of research.

According to Agarwala, rubber plantations have substantially altered the landscape of Tripura for economic considerations.

"Organic farming is far less practiced than the use of inorganic fertilisers and pesticides for high yielding hybrid varieties," he noted.

Arunoday Saha, vice-chancellor of Tripura (Central) University, said: "Funding for research in India and abroad are not at all a problem now. What is vital is the choice of appropriate issues for research."

"Though necessity is the mother of research, there are instances of malpractice and duplications in many research works," said Saha, a renowned economist.

Academician Subhas Chandra Saha told the seminar that research in higher education along with other basic sectors is a must.

"Research works should be properly targeted and study priorities must be identified," said Saha, who is also the director of the School of Management Sciences under Bengal Engineering and Science University in Shibpur in West Bengal.

IGNOU's regional director Kiran Shankar Chakraborty said that identification of research areas and focusing them on priority basis are important tasks of academic institutions actively involved in research.

According to K.N. Jena, an associate professor at Tripura (Central) University, a total of 74 research papers on a wide range of subjects were submitted in the two-day seminar and 43 of them were accepted for presentation.

Kerala Entrance 2011: Apply by Feb 14

 Commissioner for Entrance Examinations (CEE), Kerala has published the Prospectus for admissions to Professional Degree Courses, Kerala in Medical, Agriculture, Veterinary, Engineering and Architecture for the academic year 2011-12.

Admission to Engineering courses will be based on the rank list prepared by giving equal weightage for the marks in the Engineering Entrance Examination and the mark in the qualifying examination as given in mark list for the final year of the qualifying examination, computed, as stipulated in the Prospectus.
Courses in the Engineering stream include the B.Tech Courses in Engineering Colleges and the B.Tech (Agricultural Engg) and B.Tech (Dairy Science & Technology courses under the Kerala Agricultural University.

Admission to the Medical, Agriculture, and Veterinary courses will be based on the rank in the Medical Entrance Examination. Courses in the Medical/ Agriculture/Veterinary stream include (i) MBBS (ii) BDS (iii) BHMS (iv) BAMS (v) BSMS (vi) BSc. Hons. (Agriculture) (vii) BFSc. (Fisheries) (viii) BSc. Hons. (Forestry) and (ix) BVSc & AH.

Admission to the Architecture course will be based on the rank list prepared by giving equal weightage for the marks in the National Aptitude test in Architecture (NATA) and the marks in the qualifying Examination. No Entrance Examination will be conducted by the CEE for admission to B.Arch. course. Those desirous of seeking admission to B.Arch course should compulsorily appear and qualify the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) conducted by the National Institute of Advanced Studies in Architecture (NIASA) and also apply separately to the CEE as in the case of those taking the Engineering/Medical Entrance Examinations.

Dates of Examinations: The Engineering Entrance Examination (For admission to engineering courses except Architecture) will be held from 10 am to 12.30 noon (IST) on 18th and 19th April, 2011 with Paper-I (Physics & Chemistry) on 18.04.2011 (Monday) and Paper-II (Mathematics), on 19.04.2011 (Tuesday).

Paper-I, Chemistry & Physics of the Medical Entrance Examination will be held from 10 am to 12.30 noon (IST) on 20.04.2011 (Wednesday) and Paper-II: Biology will be held from 2 pm to 4.30 pm on 20.04.2011 (Wednesday) itself.

Centres of Examinations: The Entrance Examinations will be held at all the District Centres in Kerala, New Delhi and Dubai (UAE) as per Indian Standard Time (IST).

Eligibility:

Nationality: Applicant should be an Indian citizen. Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)/Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card Holders will be treated on par with Indian citizens for the limited purpose of admission. However, PIO/OCI candidates are not eligible for any kind of reservation.

Nativity: Applicant should be a Kerlaite or Non-Kerlaite. Applicants are considered for admission to various types of seats allotted by the CEE, based on their Nativity status.

Keralite: Applicants of Kerala origin will be categorized as ‘Keralites’. Others will be categorized as ‘Non-Keralites’. Children of All India Service (AIS) Officers allotted to Kerala cadre will be deemed as ‘Keralites’. However, such candidates will not be eligible for any Communal/Special/Persons with Disability reservation.

An applicant will be considered as a ’Keralite’, for the limited purpose of eligibility for admission, if (a) he/she or his/her father/mother was born in Kerala OR (b) he/she has been a resident of Kerala for a period of 5 years within a period of 12 years OR (c) he/she has undergone his/her school studies from Standards VIII to XII in educational institution(s) in Kerala, subject to the submission of the relevant certificates in the application form as prescribed in the Prospectus. Applicants who are children of All India Service (AIS) officers allotted to Kerala cadre, claiming Keralite Status, should produce a certificate from the competent authority showing that the parent of the candidate is an AIS officer allotted to Kerala cadre.

Non-Keralites: Non-Keralites are classified as ‘Non-Keralite Category-I’ and ‘Non-Keralite Category-II’. ‘Non-Keralite Category-I’ candidates are those who have undergone the qualifying course in Kerala, and who are the sons/daughters of Employees of the Government of India OR employees who are serving in connection with the affairs of the Government of Kerala, subject to the condition that, all categories of the employees mentioned, should have served in Kerala for a minimum period of 2 years or should have served in connection with the affairs of the Government of Kerala for a minimum period of 2 years. Such candidates will be eligible for admission to the Government seats under ‘State Merit’ only, for all the courses.

Candidates who do not belong to the ‘Keralite’ or ‘Non-Keralite Category-I’ will be treated as ‘Non-Keralite Category-II'. They are eligible for admission only to the ‘State Merit’ seats in the Private Self-financing Engineering Colleges in the State and in the Management Quota seats in Government Controlled Self-financing Engineering Colleges. Non-Keralite candidates will not be considered for admission against reserved seats.

Academic Qualification:

Medical: For admission to MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BSMS and BHMS, applicant should have passed the Higher Secondary Examination or examination recognized as equivalent thereto, with 50% marks in Biology/Biotechnology and 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry and Biology/Biotechnology together.

Agriculture Courses: For admission to Agricultural Courses [BSc. Hons. (Agriculture) (vii) BFSc. (Fisheries) (viii) BSc. Hons. (Forestry)], applicant should have passed the Higher Secondary Examination or examination recognized as equivalent thereto, with 50% marks in Biology and 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry and Biology together.

Veterinary: Those seeking admission to BVSc & AH course under the Kerala Agricultural University, in addition, should have passed the qualifying examination with 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English put together, as per the regulation of Veterinary Council of India.

Those seeking admission to MBBS/BDS courses should secure 50% marks in the Medical Entrance Examination, as per the guidelines issued by Medical Council of India.Those who do not satisfy the eligibility as per the Higher Secondary/Equivalent examination will be considered for admission to MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, BSMS Courses if they have a B.Sc Degree with one of Physics/ Chemistry/Zoology/Botany/Bio-technology as Main, and any one or two of these subjects as subsidiaries, with 50% marks for Main and Subsidiaries taken together, after having passed the Higher Secondary or equivalent examination, with Physics, Chemistry and Biology as optional subjects.

Engineering Courses: Applicant should have passed Higher Secondary Examination, Kerala or examinations recognized as equivalent thereto, with 50% marks in Mathematics and 50% marks in Mathematics, Physics and one among Chemistry/Bio-technology/Computer Science/ Biology together. Those with 3- year Diploma in Engineering awarded by the Board of Technical Examinations, Kerala or equivalent, having 50% marks in the final Diploma examination, are eligible for admission to special reservation quota seats in the Engineering courses reserved fro this category from this year. They are not eligible for admission to the courses offered by Kerala Agricultural University.

Architecture Course: Applicant should have passed 10+2 Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination or examinations recognized as equivalent thereto, with Mathematics as a subject of examination, with 50% marks in aggregate. Those who have passed 10+3 Diploma (any stream) recognized by Central/State Governments with 50% aggregate marks, those with International Baccalaureate Diploma, after 10 years of schooling, with not less than 50% marks in aggregate and with Mathematics as compulsory subject of examination are also eligible to apply for B.Arch Course. In addition, applicant including those belonging to SC/ST/SEBC categories should have scored 40% marks (80 marks out of 200) in the NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture). (For details, visit www.nata.in).

Relaxation in marks in the Qualifying Examination : For all courses, a relaxation of 5% marks in the qualifying examination will be allowed to those candidates who belong to the communities listed under the Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) and whose annual family income is up to Rs. 4.5 lakhs. SC/ST candidates need only a pass in the qualifying examination. Those belonging to SEBC categories, seeking admission to MBBS/BDS courses, need 45% marks in Biology and 45% marks in Physics, Chemistry and Biology put together, in the qualifying examination and 40% marks in Medical Entrance Examination. Those belonging to SC/ST categories need 40% marks in Physics, Chemistry and Biology put together in the qualifying examination and 40% marks in the Entrance Examination for admission to MBBS/BDS Courses.

Applicants with Locomotory Disability between 40% and 70% need only 45% marks for Biology and 45% marks for Biology, Physics and Chemistry taken together as academic eligibility for MBBS course. They need only 45% marks in the Entrance Examination to qualify for MBBS course.

Those appearing or have appeared for the Higher Secondary or equivalent examination will be permitted to take the Medical Entrance Examinations. They have to prove their academic eligibility on the date of admission.

Those appearing for the Higher Secondary or equivalent examination will be allowed to take the Engineering Entrance Examination. They have to submit the true copy of the mark list of the qualifying examination, attested by a Gazetted officer, to the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, on ar before 31.5.2011.

Those applying for Medical courses based on BSc. Degree should have passed the Degree Examination at the time of submission of application.

Age: Applicant should complete 17 years of age as on 31st December, 2011.

Application Forms: Only one application need be submitted for the entrance examinations for admission to one or more of Medical/Agriculture/ Veterinary, Engineering and Architecture courses. There are separate application forms for General category and SC/ST category. Even though there is no Entrance Examination for Architecture, conducted by the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, those desirous of being considered for B Arch admissions have to apply as per this Notification.

Application Fee: Application Fee is Rs.700/- for General category and Rs.350/-, for SC/ST category.  Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates whose annual family income is below Rs.40,000/- can have Application Form free of cost from the District Offices of the Scheduled Tribes Development Department on production of Community Certificate and Income Certificate. Those under ‘Other Eligible Communities' (OEC) should apply in the General application form. Applicants who are children of Inter-Caste Married Couple, of which one is SC/ST, should apply in the form meant for SC/ST.

Sale of Forms: The Sale of Applications will start on 19th January 2011 through selected Post offices in the state and outside, as per the list to be given in the appropriate link at http://www.cee-kerala.org/ and will continue till 14th February, 2011. The amount towards the fee of application is to be remitted in cash at the Post Offices. The Application Kit includes an Application form, OMR Data Sheet, an envelope bearing the address of the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations and the Prospectus. Those purchasing the kit should ensure that the Application number printed in the Application Form, OMR Data Sheet and on the cover are the same.

Online Application: Those who do not claim any reservation benefit and those belonging to Non-Keralite category can apply ‘Online’ at www.cee-kerala.org. On successful submission of the data online, an Application number will be generated. The applicant should take a print out of this application. The application fee Rs.700/- has to be remitted in any branch of State Bank of Travancore (SBT) using the chalan contained in the print out of the application. Print out of application complete in all respects along with original chalan certified by the Bank authorities and other requisite certificates should be forwarded to the Office of the CEE before the last date specified for submission of application forms.

Applicants who do not have access to State Bank of Travancore (SBT) can attach a Demand Draft for Rs.700/- drawn on a Nationalized Bank in favour of the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations payable at Thiruvananthapuram, as application fee along with the Application form, with Application Number and Name of Applicant written on the back of the Demand Draft. Online application process will be completed only on receipt of the print out of the application along with all requisite certificates, in the office of the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations.

Centre Fee: Those opting ‘Dubai’ (UAE) as the Centre for Entrance Examination, should submit along with their filled in application form, a Demand Draft for Rs.8,500/-, drawn on a Nationalized Bank in favour of the 'Commissioner for Entrance Examinations' payable at Thiruvananthapuram. Those applying online and choosing ‘Dubai’ as Cente for the Entrance Examination, should enclose Demand Drafts for Rs.700/- (Application fee) and Rs.8,500/- (Centre fee). Examination at Dubai centre is conducted as per Indian Standard Time (IST).

Last Date: Filled in Application Form along with the OMR Data Sheet and other relevant documents, to be submitted with the Application Form, enclosed in the printed envelope bearing the address of the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations supplied along with the application form or the print out, DD/Challan and other documents in case of online applications, should reach the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, latest by 5 p.m. on 14.2.2011 (Monday), by Hand/Registered Post/Speed Post. Completed Applications will be received in the Office of the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations on holidays also.

Admit Cards: Admit card will be dispatched from 24th March, 2011. Those who do not get the admit card by 16th April, 2011, should contact the Liaison Officer at the location in the district concerned specified on page 26 of the Prospectus to collect the Identification Certificate in lieu of Admit Card.

Scheme of the Examination: The Entrance examination for Medical and Engineering streams will be objective type with Multiple Choice Questions and based on single response. Against each question, five suggested answers would be given, from which the candidate will have to select and mark the alphabet (A,B,C,D or E) corresponding to the ‘most appropriate response’ in the OMR Answer Sheet.

Each Paper will have 120 questions to be answered in 150 minutes. In Engineering Entrance Examination, Paper I will have 72 questions from Physics and 48 from Chemistry. Paper II will have 120 questions from Mathematics. In Medical Entrance Examination, Paper I will have 72 questions from Chemistry and 48 from Physics. Paper II will have 120 questions from Biology.

Scoring: For each correct response the candidates will be awarded 4 marks, and for each incorrect response, one mark will be deducted from the total score.

Minimum mark: A candidate has to score a minimum of 10 marks in each of Paper I and Paper II to be eligible to be considered for ranking. For SC/ST applicants, there is no minimum mark stipulated to qualify in the Entrance Examinations. For admission to MBBS/BDS courses, only those who score a minimum of 50% marks in the entrance examination will be considered. SC/ST candidates and SEBC candidates satisfying the income criterion need only 40% marks in the entrance examination to be considered for MBBS/BDS admissions. Candidates with Locomotory disability of lower limbs between 40% and 70%, should score 45% marks in the Medical Entrance Examination to be considered for MBBS/BDS courses. For NATA minimum mark needed to qualify is 40% (80 out of 200).

Ranking for Engineering: Rank list for Engineering will be prepared by giving equal weighatge for the marks in the Entrance Examination and the qualifying examination (Marks of the final year only) , after effecting the Normalisation stipulated in Clause 9.7.4 (b) (ii) of the Prospectus. The normalized marks in the qualifying examination for the subjects to be considered for ranking (Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry/Computer Science/Bio Technology/ Biology) will be computed out of 500. The marks in the Entrance Examination will also be computed out of 500. Rank list will be prepared by adding the two marks. Maximum marks would be 1000.

Ranking for Medical: Rank list for Medical stream will be prepared based on the marks in the Medical Entrance Examination.

Ranking for Architecture: Architecture Rank list will be prepared by giving equal weighate for the marks in the qualifying examination and that in NATA.

Rank list for BAMS: Separate Rank list would be prepared for admission to BAMS Course. Those who have studied Sanskrit as Second language at Plus Two level would be given a weightage of 10 marks. This would be added to their marks in the Medical Entrance Examination. In case of those who have not studied Sanskrit, the marks they score in the Medical Entrance Examination will be considered. Considering these marks, those in the Medical Rank list would be ranked for admission to the BAMS Course. All applicants in the Medical Rank list will be rank in this manner for BAMS.

Mathrubhumi Education is organising a comprehensive seminar on Entrance reforms and admissions on January 29 at Kaloor Renewal Centre, Ernakulam, to familiarise parents and students with the various provisions in the Prospectus -2011. Click here to register your name for the seminar and to know the programme details.

For more details, see the Prospectus at www.cee-kerala.org 

Nanotechnology : Course and Scope

 



Nanotechnology assumes much importance  in the modern scientific  and   technological world of experiments. Nanotechnology is the application of science, engineering and technology to develop novel materials and devices  in various fields in the nano range.  Despite its focus on micro world this emerging, multidisciplinary  subject has potential  to  influence every aspects of life. Nanotechnology is one of the top-ranked  subjects in academic and research field. It is  an enabling technology which generates  new capabilities, products, markets  and so on.

Study Facilities
Nanotechnology programmes are available as five year integrated M.Tech degree course,  two year M.Tech  degree course, MSc degree course in  nanoscience and M.Tech degree in nanomedical science etc.

A few universities offer  five year integrated M.Tech degree course in nanotechnology for students  who have passed plus two / equivalent examination with physics, chemistry and mathematics or biology with high marks or grades.

The Amity Institute of Nanotechnology in Noida and Jaipur offer integrated  M.Tech course in nanotechnology. Sastra University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu offer  integrated M.Tech degree course in Medical Nanotechnology

Two year M.Tech
Two year full time  M.Tech programme in nanotechnology is conducted for B.Tech and MSc  degree holders in specified branches /  disciplines.

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut conducts M.Tech programme in Nanotechnology. This programme is designed for students with a background in mechanical / production / chemical  engineering and it deals with topics related to the fundamentals and applications of the subject  with a focus on emerging areas in nanoscience  and nanotechnology.

The course contents include fundamental and applied  subjects such as physics  of materials, thermodynamics of nano materials and systems, mechanics of molecular size  elements,  microscale and nanoscale    heat transfer,  nano sized structures, experimental techniques in nanotechnology and micro electro  mechanical systems and a variety of elective subjects  ranging from computational nanotechnology  to composite materials from which students can choose according to their background  and interest. Laboratory  courses dealing with production and applications  of nanoparticles, nanofluids  and nanocomposite will also be offered as part of curriculum.

The specialisation  in nanotechnology  holds a very high potential  for employment in research and development, academics and industries. BE/ B.Tech  holders in relevant discipline with atleast 60 percent marks in aggregate along with a  valid GATE Score  are eligible  for admission to M.Tech programme in nanotechnology  (www.nitc.ac.in)

The Department of Physics of Jamia Millia  Islamia, New Delhi  offers M.Tech degree course in nanotechnology. The entry qualification is MSc  degree in physics (chemistry  with mathematics upto  atleast Bachelors degree level) / electronics  science /  material science/ electronic instrumentation with atleast 55 percent marks in aggregate or bachelors  degree in electrical / mechanical / electronics and communication / computer engineering / instrumentation / computer science with not less than  60 % marks. The duration of the course is two years having four  semesters. Course contents includes introduction to solid state physics, fundamental of nanoscience and nanotechnology, foundation in microsystems and nanotechnology.

The Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee  provides excellent study facilities for M.Tech degree course in nanotechnology (www.iitr.ac.in)

Vellore  Institute  of Technology, Vellore offers M.Tech degree course in nanotechnology.

Amity Institute of Nanotechnology offers a two year M.Tech degree course in nanotechnology.  Those who have obtained a degree in electrical,  mechanical, electronics and communication or computer engineering or MSc degree in biotechnology, computer science , physics, chemistry, electronics  science,  material science, electronic instrumentation are eligible for admission.

Amity Institute of Nanotechnology also offers MSc degree course in Industrial Nanoscience.  Entry qualification is B.Tech or BSc degree in physics, chemistry, biotechnology and electronics. The institute comes under the Amity University in the private sector (www.amity.edu).

Some other universities and institutes offering post graduate programmes in nanotechnology or nanoscience are as follows:
• Department of Physics and Astrophysics, University  of Delhi (www.du.ac.in) – M.Tech course in nanoscience and nanotechnology.
• Anna University, Coimbatore (www.annauniv.ac.in)- M.Tech in Nanotechnology.
• Periyar Maniamma University, Vallam, Thanjavur (www.pmu.edu) – M.Tech Nanotechnology.
• Bharathiar University, Coimbatore (www.b-u.ac.in)- MSc in Nanoscience and Technology.
• SRM University, Kattankulathur (www.srmuniv.ac.in) – MS degree course in nanoscience.
• Amrita Institute of Medical Science, Kochi (www.amrita.edu) – M.Tech in Nano Medical Science and Technology.
• Kalasalingam University, Anandnagar, Krishnankoil, Virudunagar, Tamil Nadu, (www.kalasinglam.ac.in) – M.Tech in Nanotechnology.
• Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi – ME  course with nanotechnology as an elective subject.

(The list is only indicative)

Research

Those who successfully complete  the M.Tech / PG programmes  with good marks  can go for research studies leading to PhD in nanotechnology. Delhi University,  Banaras Hindu University, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore etc have research facilities in nanotechnology leading to PhD.

Job Opportunities

Those who successfully  complete their M.Tech or PhD degree in nanotechnology can find job as nanotechnologists; specialists or scientists. The areas where a  nanotechnologist can  seek employment  include biotechnology, agriculture, food, genetics, space research, medicine and so on. Job opportunities are also available in National  Physical  Laboratory, Indian Institute of Astrophysics etc. Candidates with PhD can also join as faculty members in Universities and colleges or research fields.

Canada's Carleton to tieup with IITM, Jindal varsity

Canada's world-famous Carleton University is set to sign memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with various Indian educational institutions during the visit of its president and vice-chancellor to India next week.

Ottawa-based Carleton is the only university in the world to have a full-fledged India-centric Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology, Trade and Policy to raise awareness about bilateral studies and public diplomacy, and develop initiatives to build a better understanding of both countries.

University president Roseann Runte, who is leaving for India on Friday, told IANS she would meet top Indian academics and sign MoUs with various institutions during her five-day visit which takes her to Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad.

"We will sign MoUs with Jindal Global University near Delhi, Jai Hind College under Mumbai University, IIT Mumbai and Petroleum University. These MoUs are geared towards exchange of faculties, students and interns, joint research and programmes, and conducting joint degree courses,'' she said.

During her visit to Hyderabad, Dr Runte would also meet the president of the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute which is a bi-national organization that promotes understanding between India and Canada through academic activities and exchanges.

Dr Runte, who is going to India at the invitation of the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Hyderabad campus, to be their guest at their cultural celebrations February 10, said she would also meet representatives of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) to discuss joint initiatives with them.

"We may sign an MoU with FICCI on internships, conferences and sharing information among businesses in the two countries,'' she said.

Apart from meeting government officials in Delhi, Dr Runte would also call on Sam Pitroda, chairman of the National Innovation Council, to invite him for the excellence summit to be held at Carleton University in June as part of the Year of India in Canada.

"Probably, Mr Pitroda is not in India next week, but I call on his office and formally invite him for the June summit,'' she said.

Combined Biotech Exam by JNU

The Jawaharlal Nehru University will hold Combined Biotechnology Entrance Examination on Thursday, the 20th May, 2011, for admission to (1) M.Sc. (Biotechnology); (2) M.Sc.Agri./M.V.Sc(Biotechnology) and (3) M.Tech (Biotechnology) Programmes being offered by various participating Universities (as per details given against each).

The entrance examination will be held at following 52 cities: Agartala, Ahmedabad, Aizawl, Allahabad, Amritsar, Bangalore, Bareilly, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Delhi, Dimapur, Gangtok, Goa, Gorakhpur, Guwahati, Gwalior, Hyderabad, Secunderabad ,Imphal, Indore, Itanagar, Jaipur, Jammu, Katihar, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Mumbai, Nagpur, Noida, Pantnagar, Patna, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Ranchi, Sambalpur, Shillong, Shimla, Silchar, Siliguri, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, Udaipur, Vadodara, Varanasi, Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. In addition, the University will hold entrance examination at Kathmandu (Nepal) (The University reserves the right to change any Centre(s) of Examination without assigning any reason).

1.M.Sc.(Biotechnology) Programme:

M.Sc. Biotechnology programme at (1) University of Allahabad, Allahabad; (2) Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu; (3) Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi; (4) University of Burdwan, Burdwan; (5) Calicut University, Kerala; (6) Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore; (7) Goa University, Goa; (8) Gulbarga University, Gulbarga; (9) Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology, Hisar; (10) Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar; (11) Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla; (12) HNB Garhwal University Garhwal;(13) University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad; (14) University of Jammu, Jammu; (15) Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi; (16) Kumaun University, Nainital; (17) University of Lucknow, Lucknow; (18) M.S. University of Baroda, Vadodara; (19) Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai; (20) University of Mysore, Mysore; (21) University of North Bengal, Siliguri; (22) Pondicherry University, Pondicherry; (23) University of Pune, Pune; (24) R.T.M. Nagpur University, Nagpur; (25) Sardar Patel University, (Gujarat); (26) Tezpur University, Tezpur (Assam); (27) T. M. Bhagalpur University, Bhagalpur; (28) Utkal University, Bhubaneswar (29) Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University, Jaunpur; and (30) Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan.

Eligibility: Bachelor's degree under 10+2+3 pattern of education in Physical, Biological, Agricultural, Veterinary & Fishery Sciences, Pharmacy, Engineering/Technology, 4-Years B.S. (Physician Assistant Course); OR Medicine (MBBS) OR BDS with at least 55% marks.

Only those candidates who have passed the qualifying examinations in 2009 or thereafter including those who are appearing in 2011 are eligible to apply. In other words, those who have passed the qualifying examination PRIOR to 2009, are not eligible to apply.

 2.M.Sc.(Agri.) Biotechnology/M.V.Sc.:

Eligibility: Bachelor's degree under 10+2+3/4/5 pattern of education with at least 55% marks or its equivalent grade point average from any recognized university in the concerned subjects shown hereunder against each participating university: 1. FOR CHAUDHARY CHARAN SINGH HARYANA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, HISAR: Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc & A.H.) recognized by Veterinary Council of India. 2. FOR CH. SARWAN KUMAR H.P. KRISHI VISHWAVIDYALAYA, PALAMPUR: Agriculture, Horticulture or Forestry. 3. FOR G.B. PANT UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE & TECHNOLOGY, PANT NAGAR: Agriculture, Veterinary Sciences, Horticulture or Forestry. Students from Bachelor of Science (B.Sc. in ZBC/PCM and B.Sc.(Biotechnology) are also eligible. 4. FOR INDIRA GANDHI KRISHI VISHWAVIDYALAYA, RAIPUR: Agriculture, Biotechnology (Agriculture), Horticulture or Forestry. 5. FOR JAWAHARLAL NEHRU KRISHI VISHWAVIDYALAYA, JABALPUR: Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.) recognized by Veterinary Council of India. 6. FOR KERALA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, THRISSUR: Agriculture, Horticulture, or Forestry. 7. FOR MARATHWADA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, PARBHANI (MAHARASHTRA): Agriculture, Horticulture or Forestry. 8. FOR ORISSA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE & TECHNOLOGY, BHUBANESWAR: Agriculture, Horticulture, or Forestry. 9. FOR TAMIL NADU AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, coimbatore: Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry or B. Tech (Biotech), B. Tech (Horticulture). 10. FOR UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES, G.K.V.K., BANGALORE: Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry or Sericulture. 11. FOR UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES, DHARWAD: Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, B.Sc. (Agril. Biotechnology)/B.Tech. (Biotechnology)/B.Sc. (Ag. Biotechn.)/B.Sc. (Agri) in Biotechnology from recognized Agricultural/Horticultural/Forestry Universities. 12. FOR Rajendra Agricultural University, Bihar, Pusa (Samastipur): Biotechnology/Agricultural Horticulture. Candidates with Bachelor Degree in Biology (3 Years duration) will have to spend 3 years in M.Sc. programme. 13. for guru angad dev veterinary and animal sciences university, ludhiana: B.V.Sc & A.H./ B.V.Sc. or B.Sc. (Biotechnology/ Agricultural Biotechnology/ Medical) or B.Sc. (Hons.) Biotechnology/ Biochemistry/ Microbiology/Molecular Genetics or equivalent degree with minimum OCPA of 6.00 (out of 10.00) or at least 60% marks in aggregate. Candidates admitted to Master's programme in Animal Biotechnology with basic qualifications other than B.V.Sc. & A.H. degree shall get M.Sc. degree in Animal Biotechnology. 14. FOR NAGPUR VETERNARY COLLEGE, MAFSU, NAGPUR : Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.) recognized by veterinary Council of india. 15. For assam agricultural university, guwahati : For admission into the M.V.Sc. programme in Animal Biotechnology, a candidate has to pass B.V.Sc. & A.H. from a recognized university securing a minimum OGPA of 7.00 in 10.00 scale or equivalent. In case of SC/ST candidates, the minimum requirement of OGPA is relaxable to 6.50 in 10.00 scale.

Only those candidates who have passed the qualifying examinations in 2009 or thereafter including those who are appearing in 2010 are eligible to apply. In other words, those who have passed the qualifying examination PRIOR to 2009, are not eligible to apply.

 3.M.Tech in Biotechnology

M.Tech (Biotechnology) Programme at(1) Anna University, Chennai; (2) Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala; & (3) West Bengal University of Technology, Kolkata.

Eligibility: Minimum 60% marks or equivalent grade in any one: B.Tech/B.E. in Chemical Engineering/Biochemical Engineering, Industrial Biotechnology, Leather Technology, Chemistry/Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, B. Pharma, Chemical Technology, OR M.Sc. in Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Botany, Zoology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics, Biophysics, Microbial Genetics and Bioinformatics. (For Anna University: Candidates with B.Tech/B.E in Electrochemistry, Bioengineering, Pharmaceutical Technology, Food Technology and M.Sc. in Chemistry & Physics are also eligible. For West Bengal University of Technology : Candidates with M.Sc. in Bioengineering are also eligible. For Cochin University of Science and Technology: Candidates with M.Sc in Marine Biotechnology, Marine Biology/Aquatic Biology & Fisheries, Environmental Biotechnology are also eligible.).

Only those candidates who have passed the qualifying examinations in 2009 or thereafter including those who are appearing in 2011 are eligible to apply. In other words, those who have passed the qualifying examination PRIOR to 2009, are not eligible to apply.

Reservation/Concession:

a) Reservation: 15%, 7½% and 3% of seats shall be reserved for SC, ST and Physically Challenged (Handicapped) (PH) candidates respectively. All the SC/ST and PH candidates who have passed the qualifying examination are eligible to apply irrespective of their percentage of marks in the qualifying degree examination. OBC reservation, wherever applicable, will be implemented as per the policy of each participating University.

b) Concession for Kashmiri Migrants: 10% marks will be added to the overall marks scored by a Kashmiri Migrant candidate in the entrance examination. After adding 10% marks, in case he/she is covered in the cut-off point in the merit list, he/she will be offered admission strictly in accordance with his/her inter-se merit alongwith other candidates subject to his/her meeting the minimum prescribed eligibility requirements and also subject to his/her producing valid registration documents issued by the notified authorities certifying the candidate's Kashmiri Migrant status.

Tuition Fee/ Scholarship:

Fee shall be charged from the admitted candidates as per the fee structure of the concerned University. Candidates selected for admission are generally eligible for scholarship at the rates prescribed by the Dept. of Biotechnology.

Procedure for getting the form :

By Post: To receive the Application Form by post candidates should send their request only to the Section Officer (Admissions), Room No. 28, Administrative Block, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, along with a Bank Draft (valid for six months) of Rs.260/-(for one set of Application Form and Prospectus). The Bank Draft should be drawn in favour of "Jawaharlal Nehru University" payable at New Delhi. The request should accompany a self-addressed unstamped envelope of the size of 30x25 cms. indicating clearly on the top of the self addressed envelope the programme for which Application Form is required, i.e., "M.Sc. Biotechnology" OR "M.Sc.(Agri.)/M.V.Sc. Biotechnology" OR "M.Tech. Biotechnology".

In Person: Sets of Application Form and Prospectus can be obtained personally on cash payment of Rs.200/- per set from any of the participating University as shown above. Please do not send your request through private courier services. Do not send request through private courier services.

Issue  of   application   forms    : February 07, 2011

Last date  for Issue  of   application   forms   :  i) By  Post:  March 10, 2011

ii) By Cash:  March 21, 2011                                        

Last date for submission of completed  forms : March 21, 2011

Important Note: (i) There are different sets of Prospectus for each programme and, therefore, candidates are advised to apply separately in case they wish to apply for more than one programme i.e. (1) For M.Sc. Biotechnology OR (2) For M.Sc.(Agri.)/M.V.Sc. Biotechnology OR (3) For M.Tech. Biotechnology Programme. (ii) Application Forms can be submitted by Registered Post to Section Officer (Admissions), Room No.28, Administrative Block, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi - 110067 and not to any other participating University or dropped in the Box in the Administrative Block of the University. The application forms must reach the JNU on or before March 21, 2011.