Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant move towards future material technologies, Kerala's cabinet has given the nod for a graphene pilot production facility in the state. Operating on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the facility will be established at a cost of Rs 237 crore. The responsibility for implementation will be entrusted to Kerala Digital University, with KINFRA serving as a dedicated agency for infrastructure development.
Graphene, the two-dimensional crystalline allotrope of carbon with enhanced properties has been considered a wonder material for multivarious reasons. It has exceptional electronic, mechanical and optical properties. Strength, better electrical/thermal conductivity, lightness and flexibility make it a ‘wonder material’ for many industrial purposes.
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Kerala Digital University has been authorised to prepare a preliminary proposal to secure loans from KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) for the project. Additionally, they are encouraged to explore potential private partners through a global expression of interest. To oversee this initiative, a managing committee will be constituted, chaired by Kerala Digital University. The committee will include representatives from the Department of Industries, IT Department, and KINFRA.
This venture aligns with the announcement made in the 2022-23 budget speech regarding the establishment of a Graphene Eco System to support industries focusing on future material technologies. As part of this initiative, the India Innovation Center for Graphene, a research and development centre dedicated to graphene-based technology, is in its early stages. The new initiative is a mid-scale graphene pilot production unit, aiming to produce industrial-grade graphene products developed through research.
Additionally, the cabinet has decided to extend the tenure of 15 temporary clerk positions in the Department of Public Education. These appointments have been made under the government's sports quota scheme.
Furthermore, the Medical Services Corporation Limited has been granted approval for the procurement of Equine Anti-rabies Immunoglobulin for the fiscal year 2023-24. Additionally, an extra government guarantee of Rs 100 crore has been allocated to the Kerala State Backward Classes Development Corporation to facilitate the widespread implementation of schemes developed by the National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation.
Published: 25 Oct 2023, 06:28 pm IST
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