Dhekiajuli (Assam): Harshika Alammayan, a Class VII student from Netaji Vidya Mandir Higher Secondary School in Dhekiajuli, Sonitpur district, has brought laurels to Assam by showcasing an innovative and socially relevant scientific model at the national level.

Harshika represented the state at the 52nd National Children’s Science Exhibition 2025, organised by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and held recently in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Her innovative project, titled E-Mat, received wide appreciation from the jury and visitors, marking her as one of the promising young innovators at the exhibition.

The E-Mat is an electronic mat developed as a safe, reusable and modern alternative to conventional baby diapers. Designed to be placed beneath a baby’s bedding, the mat is equipped with a water-sensitive mechanism that detects urine or stool. Upon sensing moisture, it instantly alerts the mother through sound or vibration, enabling timely attention and ensuring improved hygiene for infants.

The inspiration behind the invention came from Harshika’s own experience. She had earlier suffered a skin infection due to prolonged diaper use, which motivated her to explore a healthier and more practical solution for babies. With this objective and sustained effort, she successfully developed the E-Mat using simple electronic technology.

Health experts note that excessive diaper usage can often lead to rashes, infections and other skin-related problems in infants. Harshika’s E-Mat addresses these concerns by promoting cleanliness, reducing dependency on diapers, lowering costs and making childcare more convenient and stress-free for parents.

Daughter of Raja Sarkar, a teacher at Panbari Tea Garden Adarsha School in Dhekiajuli, Harshika impressed the evaluators with the strong social relevance of her project. Her innovation earned her a medal and certificate at the national exhibition, and her achievement was further highlighted when her name appeared on the first page of the official NCERT publication released for the 52nd edition of the exhibition.

By representing Assam on a national platform and earning accolades for her unique invention, Harshika Alammayan has brought pride to the state, receiving praise from various quarters for her creativity, scientific thinking and commitment to social well-being.