Srinagar, September 8, 2025: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha called on scientists and researchers to develop an advanced early warning system for flash floods and landslides in the Himalayan region, leveraging nanotechnology to create highly sensitive soil sensors. Addressing the inaugural session of the International Conference on “Nanotechnology for Better Living (NBL-2025)” at the University of Kashmir, Sinha emphasized the urgent need for innovative solutions to mitigate natural disasters, particularly in the wake of recent devastating floods in Jammu and Kashmir.“We must explore new possibilities to develop soil sensors specifically for the Himalayan regions to detect changes in soil saturation and warn about landslide risks in advance,” Sinha said. He urged experts to form a dedicated group to advance nanotechnology-driven disaster management tools, noting that such systems could be “game-changers” in preventing loss of life and property.
The LG also highlighted the need for nanomaterials to reduce pollution in chemical manufacturing, addressing climate change challenges.The five-day conference, organised by the University of Kashmir in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad, brings together leading scientists to showcase advancements in nanotechnology for sustainable living. Sinha underscored nanotechnology’s transformative impact across sectors like healthcare, industry, and defense, calling for its application in developing lightweight defense equipment and incentivizing talent in academic institutions.The call for early warning systems comes amid recent floods in Jammu, which claimed lives and disrupted infrastructure, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to climate-driven disasters. Sinha’s remarks reflect J&K’s commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technology to enhance disaster preparedness and community resilience.