Amrita Centre for Nanosciences inaugurated

Kochi, Feb 17 (UNI) Union Minister of State for Planning M V Rajashekharan today inaugurated the first Government of India funded centre for nanotechnology, 'Amrita Centre for Nanosciences', at the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) here today.

Addressing a gathering after inauguration, Mr Rajashekharan said the Centre for tissue engineering and stem research should explain all aspects of nanoscience in health care and energy sector.

He said the nanoscience has immense potential to take the country on the path of development.

'' Science and Technology can give solutions to all problems and is a vehilce for development process to move on,'' he said.

Considering the importance of science and technology in the progress of the nation, he said funds would be earmarked for its development in the 11th five-year-plan.

The Centre with an institute for molecular science aims to be a pioneer in tissue engineered replacements for bone, skin and cartilage which had applications in reconstructive surgery, replacement of vessels in coronary artery diseases, skin replacement for burn victims and bone implants for cancer patients.

The Centre will have a nano imaging laboratory, nano chemistry lab, nano chemical charaterisation lab, nano surface modification lab and polymer processing lab to undertake research in the field.

The development of nanotechnology can make cancer treatment more effective though better drug delivery without damaging healthy tissues.

The AIMS would provide 30,000 sq ft of infrastructure worth Rs 5 crore for the Centre which has a Government investment of another Rs 5 crore under the Department of Science and Technology.

UNI