The study of ionized gas or plasma underlies numerous important technological applications and devices as well as understanding of much of the universe around us. They provide the foundation and underpinnings for present applications such as plasma processing of semiconductors, sterilization of some medical products, lamps, lasers, diamond coated films, high power microwave sources, and pulsed power switches. They also provide the foundation for important potential applications such as the generation of electrical energy from fusion and pollution control, removal of hazardous chemicals and...

Sugar industry is a key driver of rural development, supporting the economic growth of India. The industry inherently supports over 50 million farmers and their families, along with workers and entrepreneurs of almost 650 sugar mills, apart from a host of wholesalers and distributors spread across the country. A large mass of agricultural labour is involved in sugarcane cultivation and harvesting activities. Over 5 lakh workmen are directly employed. By way of sugarcane price, about Rs.23, 000 crores are directly disbursed to sugarcane farmers. Besides, its annual contribution to the central...