On Monday, Andhra University rolled out the Swami Jnanananda Advanced Nuclear Research Laboratory. Big boost for its nuclear science and radiation detection research . Housed in Department of Nuclear Physics,the lab aims to give students hands-on skills for top scientific jobs.
G.P. Raja Sekhar, Vice-Chancellor, stressed the need for cutting-edge research tools. He said modern labs are vital for training students bound for places like Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). “We must modernise laboratories to produce students with practical skills,” he said at the opening.
The lab will feature state-of-the-art equipment for detecting alpha, beta,and gamma radiation. It will also measure radon levels and analyze environmental samples like water,soil, food,and air . This setup is expected to drive major research in environmental radioactivity and nuclear science.
Funding for the lab comes from Rajendra Mishra,CEO of Modern Test Center in Berhampur, Odisha, and Dr . B. Ramaraju,a US-based cardiologist and Swami Jnanananda's nephew . Guided by D. Vidya Sagar,a former BARC scientist, the project bridges theory with practical know-how.
“Students should not learn nuclear physics only in theory. They must gain hands-on experience with modern radiation detection equipment,” said Vidya Sagar.
He pointed out that the Visakhapatnam-Bheemili coastline offers unique chances to study environmental radioactivity due to monazite deposits, upping natural radiation levels there .
This new gear will let students do both qualitative and quantitative research in environmental radioactivity. Vidya Sagar also mentioned internship opportunities at his lab for Andhra University students to boost practical experience.
Department head P.V. Lakshmi Narayana said equipment worth ₹10 to ₹15 lakh is already in place, with more on the way . He’s confident this training will set students up for work in the growing fields of radioactivity testing and nuclear science .
At the inauguration, Padma Leela,Swami Jnanananda's granddaughter, shared his life story. Born in 1896 in Goraganamudi, he studied spirituality in the Himalayas and researched in Germany,the UK, and the US before returning to India in 1947. Joining Andhra University in 1954, he helped set up the Department of Nuclear Physics. Leela called him “first saint and later a world-renowned scientist,” whose legacy still drives researchers today.
