International Research Award on Civil and Environmental Engineering

  Multi-year droughts (MYDs) are increasingly common and severe, as brought into light by a recent 40-year study. The research indicates that these droughts have expanded globally, impacting ecosystems and water supplies. This trend is linked to climate change, which exacerbates drought conditions. The study, conducted by a consortium of researchers from various institutions, analysed data from 1980 to 2018. About Multi-Year DroughtsMulti-year droughts are prolonged dry periods lasting two years or more. These events lead to soil moisture depletion. They also result in reduced streamflow, which can have severe consequences for agriculture and ecosystems. MYDs can cause massive crop failures and increased tree mortality. The study identified 13,176 MYDs from 1980 to 2018, each representing an event of duration. Global Impact of Droughts The research showed that the global land area affected by MYDs has increased by approximately 50,000 square kilometres annually. The most affected r...

  IIT Madras has partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare to launch Project VISTAAR. This initiative aims to enhance the agricultural extension system through digitalisation. The pilot project, known as the Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources, focuses on strengthening agricultural extension services. Start-ups play important role in this context by leveraging technology to offer innovative solutions to farmers. Objectives of Project VISTAAR Project VISTAAR aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of agricultural extension services. It seeks to provide farmers with access to relevant information and resources. The project will enable better communication between farmers and agricultural experts. By utilising digital tools, it aims to enhance the overall productivity of the agriculture sector. Role of Start-ups in Agriculture Start-ups are vital in introducing innovative technologies in agriculture. They address unique challenges ...

  Fluid dynamics examines the behaviour of fluids in motion. This includes both liquids and gases. The study focuses on the forces acting on these fluids. Work and energy are crucial concepts in this field. They describe how energy is transferred and transformed within fluid systems. Basic Concepts Work Work occurs when a force causes displacement in the direction of that force. Mathematical Expression: W=F⋅d⋅cos(θ)W=F⋅d⋅cos⁡(θ) Variables:WW – Work done FF – Force applied dd – Displacement θθ – Angle between the force and displacement direction In fluid dynamics, work can be done by pressure forces acting on the fluid. Energy Energy is the capacity to perform work. In fluid systems, energy can take various forms.Kinetic Energy: Energy due to fluid motion.Formula: KE=12mv2KE=12mv2 Potential Energy: Energy due to fluid position in a gravitational field.Formula: PE=mghPE=mgh Internal Energy: Energy related to the temperature and phase of the fluid. Conservation of Energy The First Law...

  The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has intensified due to severe cold weather. In just one week, six infants have succumbed to hypothermia. The ongoing conflict has restricted access to essential winter aid and medical support. Over 45,500 lives have been lost, predominantly among children and women. The population of 2.3 million, many displaced, faces dire conditions with inadequate food and water supplies. About Hypothermia Hypothermia is a medical condition where the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. The normal core temperature for humans is about 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature must be maintained for vital organs to function properly. When the body temperature drops below 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit), hypothermia begins to set in. Temperature Thresholds for Hypothermia Hypothermia can occur even at temperatures above 4 degrees Celsius (40 degrees Fahrenheit). Factors like rain, wind, and immersion in cold water can accele...