Srinagar: Dr. Majid Hussain, Assistant Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has secured funding from the prestigious RESPOND Programme of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for his research project titled “Modelling or experimental work related to interplanetary/planetary dust.”
The project, approved by the Chairman of ISRO and the Secretary of the Department of Space (DOS), has received funding for a duration of two years.
The research is expected to make significant contributions to the understanding of planetary and interplanetary dust dynamics, with potential applications in space exploration and planetary sciences.
As per the official communication from ISRO, the Department of Space will release the sanctioned funds annually through the Central Nodal Agency (CNA) Scheme.
In an official letter dated March 11, 2025, addressed to Dr. Majid, ISRO confirmed the approval of the project and outlined the necessary administrative procedures for fund disbursement.
The letter was signed by M.A. Paul on behalf of ISRO’s RESPOND Programme, headquartered at Antariksh Bhavan, New BEL Road, Bengaluru.
Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Majid Hussain said that this project will contribute to scientific advancements in planetary dust modelling, benefiting both fundamental research and space missions.
“I am thankful to ISRO for recognizing and supporting our work,” adding that both the Department of Civil Engineering and faculty community at NIT Srinagar are committed to advancing knowledge in planetary science and space technology. The project will focus on the interaction between the rower/lander and lunar & martian regolith.
In her message, Prof. Roohie Naaz, Incharge-Director NIT Srinagar congratulated Dr. Hussain on this remarkable achievement, emphasizing that this recognition underscores NIT Srinagar’s commitment to cutting-edge research and its growing collaboration with premier national institutions.
“We take immense pride in Dr. Hussain’s accomplishment and look forward to further strengthening our research capabilities in space sciences,” he said.
Institute’s Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman extended his congratulations to Dr. Majid Hussain and stated that it is a proud moment for the institute as well as the research community at NIT Srinagar.
“We are confident that this project will make valuable contributions to the field of space science and planetary research,” Prof. Rehman added.
