NIT Srinagar’s Dr. Majid Hussain Secures ISRO RESPOND Funding for Planetary Dust Research
In a significant achievement for the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, Dr. Majid Hussain, Assistant Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering, has secured funding from the prestigious RESPOND Programme of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His research project, titled “Modelling or experimental work related to interplanetary/planetary dust,” has been approved by ISRO’s Chairman and the Secretary of the Department of Space (DOS). The project is set to receive funding for a period of two years, marking a major milestone in space research at NIT Srinagar.
A Major Recognition from ISRO
The RESPOND Programme, initiated by ISRO, aims to promote advanced research in space-related fields by collaborating with academic institutions across India. Dr. Hussain’s project will focus on understanding planetary and interplanetary dust dynamics, an area of great importance for space exploration and planetary sciences. His work could potentially contribute to future lunar and Martian missions by providing insights into the interaction between rovers, landers, and planetary regolith.
In an official letter dated March 11, 2025, ISRO confirmed the approval of Dr. Hussain’s project and outlined the administrative processes required for fund disbursement. The letter was signed by M.A. Paul on behalf of ISRO’s RESPOND Programme, which is headquartered at Antariksh Bhavan, New BEL Road, Bengaluru. According to ISRO’s guidelines, the Department of Space will release the sanctioned funds annually through the Central Nodal Agency (CNA) Scheme to support the research activities.
Impact of the Research
Dr. Hussain’s research will significantly contribute to the understanding of how dust behaves on planetary surfaces, which is a critical factor in designing space missions. The study will explore the interaction of planetary dust with landers and rovers, providing crucial data that could help improve the durability and efficiency of exploration vehicles operating on the Moon, Mars, and other celestial bodies.
Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Majid Hussain stated, “I am thankful to ISRO for recognizing and supporting our work. This project will contribute to scientific advancements in planetary dust modeling, benefiting both fundamental research and space missions.” He also emphasized that the Department of Civil Engineering and the faculty community at NIT Srinagar are committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in planetary science and space technology.
Congratulatory Messages from NIT Srinagar Leadership
Dr. Hussain’s achievement has been widely celebrated within the academic and research community of NIT Srinagar. Prof. Roohie Naaz, Incharge-Director of NIT Srinagar, congratulated him on this remarkable accomplishment. She highlighted the institute’s commitment to cutting-edge research and its growing collaboration with national institutions like ISRO. “We take immense pride in Dr. Hussain’s achievement and look forward to further strengthening our research capabilities in space sciences,” she stated.
Similarly, Prof. Atikur Rehman, Registrar of NIT Srinagar, extended his heartfelt congratulations, calling it a proud moment for the entire institute. He remarked, “We are confident that this project will make valuable contributions to the field of space science and planetary research. It reflects our institution’s dedication to fostering research excellence.”
Advancing Space Science at NIT Srinagar
This funding marks a new chapter for NIT Srinagar in space-related research. As the institute continues to enhance its research capabilities, collaborations with prestigious organizations like ISRO open new doors for students and faculty members alike. The research led by Dr. Hussain is expected to not only advance theoretical knowledge but also have practical applications in future space missions.
As India’s space program continues to make strides on the global stage, contributions from academic institutions like NIT Srinagar play a vital role in supporting ISRO’s ambitious exploration goals. With dedicated researchers like Dr. Majid Hussain, the institute is set to become a significant player in space and planetary research in the years to come.
You Might Also Like :
Abu Dhabi’s MGX Invests $2 Billion in Binance, Strengthening UAE-Crypto Ties
76 Active Militants, Including 59 Foreign Terrorists, Remain in Jammu and Kashmir
Columbia Graduate Mahmoud Khalil Arrested by ICE Amid Pro-Palestine Protests, Sparking Outrage
