The 2024 Tata Transformation Prize, jointly organized by Tata Sons and The New York Academy of Sciences, has recognized three outstanding Indian scientists for their innovative contributions in food security, sustainability, and healthcare. This prestigious award, established in 2022, highlights pathbreaking research aimed at addressing India’s critical societal challenges and includes a monetary reward of ₹2 crore (approximately $240,000) for each recipient​
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The Winners:
Dr. C. Anandharamakrishnan (Food Security)
Dr. Anandharamakrishnan from CSIR – National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology developed fortified rice addressing malnutrition and diabetes. Using advanced spray-drying techniques, this rice is engineered with essential nutrients and a low glycemic index. His groundbreaking methods include the creation of Asia’s first artificial gastrointestinal system to analyze nutrient absorption, benefiting millions facing nutrient deficiencies and chronic diseases globally​
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Dr. Amartya Mukhopadhyay (Sustainability)
A researcher at IIT Bombay, Dr. Mukhopadhyay focuses on sodium-ion (Na-ion) batteries as cost-effective, sustainable alternatives to lithium-ion batteries. His innovations, including air-stable materials and eco-friendly production methods, promise safer, affordable energy storage solutions tailored to India’s needs, where lithium resources are scarce​
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Dr. Raghavan Varadarajan (Healthcare)
From the Indian Institute of Science, Dr. Varadarajan is designing a low-cost vaccine for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a leading cause of severe respiratory illnesses. His approach emphasizes long-lasting, broad protection at significantly reduced production costs, addressing accessibility challenges in developing nations​
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The winners were selected from 169 entries across 18 states by an international jury, including experts from organizations like IBM Research and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This award aims to provide global visibility and scaling opportunities for these transformative Indian innovations​.
Source: americanbazaaronline.com