: Born 112 Years Ago, 5 Ways The Indian Institute of Science is Saving Lives Even Today #IndiaNEWS #Bengaluru The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) story is intimately linked with the evolution of

Born 112 Years Ago, 5 Ways The Indian Institute of Science is Saving Lives Even Today #IndiaNEWS #Bengaluru
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) story is intimately linked with the evolution of research, higher education, science, and technology in India. From establishing sandalwood oil and soap factories to training military personnel, manufacturing goods, repairing warplanes, and finding solutions for Covid-related ailments the organisation has maintained a reputation for cutting-edge research and development for a solid 112 years now.
And its birth is just as formidable as its research. The venerable institution was set up by none other than legendary industrialist and founder of the Tata group Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata.
In the early 1890s, the idea to launch this institution was thought of by Jamsetji, reportedly encouraged by a conversation with Swami Vivekananda. By 1898, Jamsetji actively was on the lookout for a suitable place for such an institution. He met and discussed his idea with Sheshadri Iyer, the Diwan of Mysore.
The two of them convinced the then-ruler of Mysore, Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, to donate roughly 372 acres of land in the heart of then-Bangalore, and provide other necessary facilities. And thus, a legend in India’s research capabilities was born on 27 May 1909.
The letter written to Swami Vivekananda from Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata.
Research during early days
The institute’s first director was an English Chemist named Morris Travers. With only two academic departments electrical technology and general & applied chemistry, and 24 students, the institute carried out studies of immediate importance to the country.
Early research conducted by IISc led to establishing six factories in the city in less than five years.
In 1933, with Nobel laureate Sir CV Raman, the first Indian director, the institute introduced two more departments Biochemistry and physics. Later, in collaboration with Hindustan Aircraft Limited, the institute repaired British and American warplanes during WWII.
Researchers working on innovative solutions during WWII.
Modern era and the battle against Covid
After the 1960s, under the leadership of director Satish Dawan, the institute began to include a diverse range of research areas, including molecular biophysics, computer science and automation, and more. They even launched the Centre for Theoretical Studies, which led to other centres in ecology, atmospheric and oceanic sciences.
Today, IISc has 45 departments and various undergraduate programmes with research areas focussing on nanoscience, hypersonics engineering, brain research, and more. The institute also continues to incubate startups that are developing resources to solve timely issues.
After the COVID-19 pandemic hit, IISc initiated several projects to address problems arising in the country.