Regional Research Laboratory (RRL), Bhubaneswar observed the 64 th Foundation Day of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), New Delhi on 26 th September 2006 in RRL Auditorium.

At the outset, Prof. Barada Kanta Mishra, Director-RRL, welcomed the Chief Guest and discussed some of the outstanding achievements of CSIR. Prof. Mishra said that RRL Bhubaneswar is an integral part of CSIR and is committed to popularize viable technologies for the industries in the area of mineral beneficiation and extractive metallurgy. He said that scientists of RRL are deeply involved in developing such technologies for a number of important minerals. Prof. Mishra further said that RRL is very much keen to commercialize its technologies on (i) Nickel extraction, (ii) dry beneficiation of coal using the air dense medium fluidised bed separator, (iii) improved column flotation units for beneficiation of low-grade ores, (iv) thermal plasma synthesis of important materials from silica, ilmenite, zircon, etc. in various forms and (v) production of free flowing alumina powder using a jet wheel impact atomizer. He said that RRL is closely working with the Government departments and large industries to market these technologies.

Shri D.P. Mishra, Director General, Indian Chemical Council and Adviser, Jacobs H&G Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, Chief Guest of the function, delivered the Foundation Day Lecture. Speaking on the topic “Commercialization of Indigenous Technology: The Way Forward” Shri Mishra said that Orissa can exploit its vast reserve of mineral resources in a much profitable way with a proper technology vision. Describing technology as the key to development Shri Mishra said that India has a large S&T base and this objective can be achieved through collaborative efforts among R&D organizations, Engineering Consultation and the Industry. He opined that the indigenous technologies are facing stiff competition from overseas counterparts and the key is to release foolproof technological solutions to the industry after proper evaluation.

On the eve of the celebration of the CSIR Foundation Day, RRL released two of its rural technologies to the industry. Representative of M/s KOSV Corporation, Cochin and M/s Him Indistries, Cuttack received the transfer documents.

The Chief Guest released a CD on RRL's expertise and facilities, which was later viewed by the guests invited from local research and educational institutions, representatives of industry and state government officials. Prizes were also distributed to the winners of essay competitions in science organized among the children of CSIR employees. Meritorious students of RRL U.P. school were also awarded on the occasion.

Dr R.K. Galgali, Scientist-G and Head of Resource Planning and Business development Group coordinated the event as the Chairman of Organizing Committee and proposed vote of thanks.