NTPC NETRA and CSIR scientists honoured for technological innovations at DV Kapur Energy Awards 2025. Discover breakthroughs in Nano Electricity Generator and Green Coal Technologies impacting India’s sustainable energy sector.
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🌟 NTPC, NETRA & CSIR Scientist Honoured at DV Kapur Foundation Energy Innovation Awards 2025
Introduction to the Innovation Awards Ceremony
The First DV Kapur Foundation Energy Innovation Awards 2025 were successfully conducted in New Delhi on 12 December 2025 to recognise outstanding technological contributions in India’s energy sector. The event was organised by the D V Kapur (DVK) Foundation, set up to promote innovations that address energy challenges in sustainable and environmentally friendly ways. The ceremony witnessed participation from distinguished scientists, research leaders, and industry heads who honoured breakthrough innovations from public research institutions and technology organisations.
Awardees and Their Recognised Innovations
The awards were divided into two main categories:
- Category 1 — Awards for young innovators (below 38 years).
- Category 2 — Awards for significant technological contributions by organisations or senior innovators.
Dr Achu Chandran — Nano Electricity Generator
Dr Achu Chandran, Principal Scientist at CSIR-NIIST (Council of Scientific & Industrial Research — National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology), won the Category 1 award for his work on the development of a groundbreaking “Nano Electricity Generator” — an innovative device that generates electrical energy from nanoscale effects that can have potential applications in clean power generation and micro-energy harvesting technologies.
NETRA — Green Coal Technologies
NETRA (NTPC Energy Technology Research Alliance) — the R&D arm of NTPC Ltd., was honoured in Category 2 for innovations in Green Use of Coal Technologies. The team, led by Shri Shaswattam, was recognised for their efforts to make coal-based energy cleaner and more sustainable through advanced research and technology solutions.
Key Highlights from the Ceremony
The awards were presented by Prof Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, demonstrating strong government support for research and development in energy technologies. The event underscored the importance of innovation in balancing India’s energy needs with sustainability goals and economic growth aspirations.
Broader Impact on India’s Technological Landscape
The ceremony emphasised mentorship for emerging innovators and highlighted India’s growing focus on supporting deep-tech research ecosystems. The recognition encourages more scientists and technology teams to contribute solutions in energy, environment, and related sectors — which are pivotal for national development and strategic advancement.
📌 Why This News Matters for Competitive Exams
Significance to National Development Goals
The recognition of technological contributions by CSIR scientists and NTPC’s R&D wing reflects India’s commitment to innovation in the energy sector — a key area for sustainable national growth. Competitive exams often ask questions related to science and technology advancements, government initiatives to support innovation, and contributions by public sector units (PSUs) and research organizations toward national policies and goals. Recognition events like the DV Kapur Foundation awards demonstrate how technology intersects with public policy, energy security, and economic progress.
Relevance for Government Exam Aspirants
Students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, and other government exams must be aware of:
- How scientific research contributes to clean energy and sustainability goals.
- The role of institutions like CSIR and NTPC NETRA in advancing technology that supports national priorities.
- Government emphasis on supporting young innovators and promoting research through awards and recognition. Such information enriches answers in General Studies, Science & Technology, and Current Affairs sections.
🧠 Historical Context: Energy Innovation & Awards in India
Early Recognition of Scientific Contributions
India has a long tradition of recognising scientific excellence through prestigious awards such as the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, Vigyan Ratna Award, and Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar. These awards encourage research in basic sciences and applied technology, reinforcing national priorities in innovation.
Growth of Energy Research and Technology
With rapid industrialisation and rising energy demand, India’s energy research ecosystem has expanded. Institutions like CSIR, NTPC, and emerging research alliances like NETRA were formed to address long-term challenges linked to energy security, renewable technologies, and environmental sustainability. Award recognitions help motivate researchers to develop viable solutions for current and future energy needs.
Importance of Promoting Young Innovators
Recognising contributions from early-career scientists through age-based categories ensures that young innovators get visibility and support — which strengthens India’s innovation pipeline and builds future leaders in science and technology.
📋 Key Takeaways from NTPC, NETRA & CSIR Scientist Awarded for Technological Innovations
| S. No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1. | The First DV Kapur Foundation Energy Innovation Awards 2025 were held in New Delhi to honour energy technology innovators. |
| 2. | Dr Achu Chandran (CSIR-NIIST) won for his Nano Electricity Generator — a breakthrough in energy tech. |
| 3. | NTPC’s NETRA received recognition for Green Use of Coal Technologies, showcasing sustainable coal innovations. |
| 4. | Awards were presented by Prof Ajay Kumar Sood, highlighting government support for energy R&D. |
| 5. | The event emphasised the need to support young innovators and sustainable energy solutions to drive national growth. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the DV Kapur Foundation Energy Innovation Awards 2025?
The DV Kapur Foundation Energy Innovation Awards 2025 is an event that recognises outstanding technological contributions and innovations in the energy sector, focusing on sustainability and clean energy solutions.
2. Who are the main awardees of the 2025 Energy Innovation Awards?
Dr Achu Chandran of CSIR‑NIIST received the award for the Nano Electricity Generator, and NTPC’s R&D arm NETRA received recognition for innovations in Green Use of Coal Technologies.
3. What is NETRA and its significance?
NETRA (NTPC Energy Technology Research Alliance) is the R&D wing of NTPC Ltd., working to develop advanced energy technologies including cleaner coal usage and sustainable energy solutions.
4. Why are these awards important for India’s energy sector?
These awards highlight India’s commitment to innovation in energy technologies, encouraging research that contributes to sustainability, national energy security, and technological advancement.
5. Who presented the awards at the ceremony?
The awards were presented by Prof Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, indicating strong governmental support for innovation in the energy sector.
6. How does this news benefit government exam aspirants?
Knowledge of awards, innovations, and organisations like CSIR and NTPC NETRA is relevant for Science & Technology, Current Affairs, and General Studies sections in exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, and Defence.
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