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To spread science education among the kids and to get them excited about it, we set up two science camps at Garden High School, situated at the IISER Kolkata Campus at Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal. The first one was for nursery to class 2 students, the youngest ones we could find and the second camp was for class 3 and 4 students. Our main goal was to instill a passion for scientific inquiry and learning among these impressionable young minds.

On the 11th of September, 2023, we organized the first part of this camp for the students ranging from Nursery to Class 2. The students were treated to an engaging presentation on bacteria and its harmful effects, accompanied by informative and impressive poster presentations. Handwashing awareness: We showed the kids the seven important steps of washing hands and explained why it's so important. We wanted them to understand how washing hands keeps them healthy and stops the spread of germs. Pop-science experiments: We introduced engaging science activities to the students, showcasing captivating demonstrations such as the plasma ball and the elephant toothpaste experiment. These visual aids presented before them not only simplified complex scientific concepts but also piqued their curiosity towards science and scientific phenomena. Around 120 students participated in this session.

We organized the second part of this camp on September 19, 2023. During this camp, we conducted captivating activities, including the mesmerizing Plasma Ball and the thrilling Elephant Toothpaste experiment. Besides, we showed them how a stethoscope works, letting them hear the heartbeat, which was pretty awesome. These activities not only ignited the curiosity of the students but also helped them grasp scientific concepts in a tangible way.

Sustainable education - In addition to these hands-on experiences, our presentation on fundamental topics like bacteria, agriculture, and food production, tailored to the students' level, served as a catalyst for sustainable development, environmental awareness, and numerical literacy. We are proud that our efforts aligned seamlessly with the school's goal of providing holistic education to its students.

Microbe-Inspired Artistry - There was also a drawing session, conducted with these students. In the enchanting world of science, the young minds of classes 3 and 4 embarked on a captivating journey. They were introduced to the fascinating realm of microbes through colorful slides, igniting their curiosity. With pencils and paper in hand, they were encouraged to let their imaginations take flight, sketching their own whimsical interpretations of these tiny wonders. This magical fusion of science and fantasy allowed them to explore science with boundless creativity, nurturing a passion that promises to flourish with each new discovery. Around 90 students participated in this session.

The team conducted sessions and science camps for students across different age groups (class 5-8 and class 9-12) in three distinct schools. The main aim of such camps was to reach out to the young minds at a very tender age and shape their growing outlook towards science and nature, in the lines of Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation along with holistic development with interdisciplinary approach.

The team organized two science camp sessions at Garden High School (English medium), situated at the IISER Kolkata Campus at Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal. The first one ranges from Classes 5 to 8 and another one is from classes 9 to 12. Due to the vicinity of the school from the research labs, it was very easy for us to engage with the students and organize regular workshops and sessions to involve them in our project and also to cultivate the scientific, rationale, and numerical awareness amongst them.

In this event, we focused on students from classes 5 to 8. Understanding the project: We taught them about the ecosystem, food chain, biomagnification, biopesticides and thus we tried to make them understand the importance of our project in a simple and easier way. Hands-on learning: Practical experiments, including the turmeric experiment showcasing pH-related color changes, creation of elephant toothpaste were also shown to them. They performed some of the experiments by themselves, assisted by us and the teachers of the school. They were very much excited.

Around 130 students participated in this session. This was our first camp and we learnt a lot from them too.

The students of classes 9, 10 and 12 were introduced to the realm of synthetic biology by us. Awareness about Interdisciplinary Biology -We tried to give them the flavor of interdisciplinary in Biology. This session provided them with a foundational understanding of the interdisciplinary fields, igniting their zeal to explore beyond conventional biology. There was also a hands-on experiment, where students extracted DNA from bananas, showcased the practical application of scientific concepts.

Quiz session - We conducted a small quiz contest among them. So, through these experimental workshops, we tried not only to enhance their understanding, but also, to facilitate the development of their scientific reasoning and analytical thinking, emphasizing the importance of Higher Order Thinking Skills. Around 60 students took part in this science camp.

On July 18, 2023, a dynamic and engaging science workshop unfolded in Chandmari Nagendrabala Balika Vidyalaya, a Government of West Bengal sponsored Bengali medium school, in Nadia district in two sessions. In this school, the students come from socioeconomically modest backgrounds.

In the morning, we focused on students from class 5 to 8. We tried to give them a feel of the science that they do not get a chance to do in their everyday curriculum in school. This session delved into the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology. Students got the opportunity to feel the essence of hands-on experience with science, with the preparation of ‘natural indicators’ using China Rose and Turmeric, which they can get easily in their home. They enthusiastically participated in the Elephant Toothpaste Experiment. They shared their dreams and aspirations with us. The workshop encouraged open communication, even collecting individual feedback, ensuring every student's voice was heard. Impressively, around 120 to 150 students actively engaged in this enriching session.

The afternoon session saw a continuation of this vibrant science exploration for class 9-12. Approximately 110-120 students attended this session, brimming with curiosity. The focus shifted to an Introduction to Synthetic Biology and CRISPR Technology. Hands-on experiments included the fascinating DNA Extraction from Bananas and a return to the thrilling Elephant Toothpaste Experiment. The workshop's success was evident in the enthusiasm and active participation of the students, reaffirming their keen interest in the world of science.

On the 21st of July 2023, we had a wonderful opportunity to visit Rabitirtha Vidyalaya, where we conducted an engaging and insightful learning session for students in grades 9 to 12. Our aim was to unravel the fascinating world of genetic engineering, particularly focusing on CRISPR technology and genetic circuits.

During the session, we took the students on a captivating journey into the realm of DNA by facilitating a hands-on experiment on DNA extraction, using a rather unexpected source – bananas! This activity not only brought the magic of genetics to life but also showcased the simplicity and universality of DNA in our daily lives.

Moreover, to add a burst of excitement, we conducted the thrilling 'elephant toothpaste' experiment. This experiment is not only visually captivating but also a splendid demonstration of chemical reactions in the world of biology. The students watched in awe as we created towering, foamy fountains of 'elephant toothpaste', igniting their curiosity and sparking their interest in the wonders of science.

Nearly 70 students participated in this session. The event went really well, and we hope we sparked the interest of these young scientists as they begin their journey of exploring and discovering new things. The smiles on their faces and their enthusiasm showed us that science can be a lot of fun.

From July 24 to July 18, 2023, we, the iGEM team from IISER Kolkata conducted a comprehensive science workshop named ‘Synverse’. The workshop took place at Kalyani Public School, Barasat for five days, each day from 11 am to 1 pm. The workshop provided students with a diverse range of activities and learning experiences in the realm of synthetic biology and interdisciplinary science.

Day 1 (July 24, 2023): The workshop began with a session on the overview of Synthetic Biology, focusing on understanding the fundamentals such as DNA, RNA, Amino Acids, Proteins, and Enzymes.

Day 2:. To add some fun to the sessions, we arranged a small game for them– ‘The Codon Game’ that bridged the realms of math and biology. After that, we continued the learning sessions on Lac Operon and Quorum Sensing, and a hands-on Bacterial Streaking experiment.

Day 3: This session featured topics on Plasmid Design, Genetic Circuits and How Mathematics is Used in Biological Systems. Students also had the opportunity to engage in a hands-on experiment to understand how Gram-Positive bacteria can be distinguished from Gram-Negative bacteria by microscopic observation.

Day 4: On this day, we introduced the students to CRISPR Technology, we also discussed our project, and introduced them to the thinking process of brainstorming new ideas. At the later half of the session, a short general quiz session was conducted. We also announced the top three teams of the quiz.

Day 5 (The Final Day!): This day was dedicated to the judging session of the group-wise presentations of projects by students. The awards went to the winning team of three students and a special prize was awarded too. Additionally, we handed feedback forms to the students where they provided their valuable inputs.

The ‘Synverse’ went really well and we hope, we could make students interested in pursuing basic sciences as a future career.

Under the banner of the Xanthacinator Project, we embarked on an ambitious journey to promote synthetic biology and biotechnology among students from diverse backgrounds and regions. Our outreach efforts reached schools not only across various Indian cities but also extended to government-run Indian schools located in foreign countries, serving the NRI and OCI students.

With classes spanning from 9 to 12, these students participated in a competition that encouraged them to tackle real-world issues, from local to global scales, using the transformative tools of synthetic biology and biotechnology. Through online education, we equipped them with the necessary knowledge and tools to understand these complex fields.

Our competition wasn't just about scientific exploration; it was a reflection of our commitment to align with the National Education Policy 2020. It aimed to nurture scientific literacy, numerical literacy, and awareness of sustainable development. Moreover, it encouraged the practical application of theoretical scientific knowledge, empowering students to become problem solvers and critical thinkers.

For a whole week, we sent students emails with slides to teach them about synthetic biology and some techniques and concepts used in it. Teachers were there to help them understand the slides, and we did our best to answer any questions they had. The projects submitted by these bright young minds were meticulously evaluated by a panel of institute professors, ensuring fairness and rigor in the competition. The best projects stood as beacons of innovation and creativity, symbolizing the potential of our youth in the realm of synthetic biology and biotechnology. We took pride in recognizing and celebrating their exceptional achievements, marking a significant step in our mission to inspire the scientists of tomorrow.

We organized a fantastic outreach event in collaboration with Ek Pehel, a student-led NGO from IISER Kolkata. The event brought in kids from nearby slums and villages in Haringhata and Mohanpur, Nadia, ranging from classes 5 to 12.

For the younger group (classes 5 to 8), we dived into the exciting world of bacteria and microbes. They got hands-on with a cool experiment, making Natural Indicators and measuring pH using it. We explained to them the reasons and processes behind these scientific activities. Individually they participated in the elephant toothpaste experiment and other enjoyable science activities. We talked about their dreams and encouraged these young minds to go for what they want in life.

As for the older bunch (classes 9 to 12), they got a taste of the scientific wonders of synthetic biology and bacterial culture. We helped them to unfold the world of synbio. They got to roll up their sleeves and try bacterial streaking in the labs of IISER Kolkata, an experience they don't typically get in their regular academic routine. It was all about inspiring curiosity and providing them with a glimpse of what's possible in the world of science. We discussed with them about the importance of our project too.

On September 10, 2023, our team got an amazing opportunity to visit an orphanage in Naihati, West Bengal, India, which is looked after by the New Life Saving Society, a registered NGO with both the Indian and West Bengal governments. The kids we met there come from some really humble backgrounds, both financially and in terms of education. They're in classes ranging from 1 to 12.

We wanted to make learning about bacteria and microbes not just educational but also loads of fun. We also emphasized the importance of proper handwashing to them. And to make the learning experience even cooler, we brought along a plasma ball and some nifty lenses. We make them aware of our different body parts and how they work, by showing them a Human Model. We also demonstrated the use of a stethoscope, enabling them to hear the heartbeat, which was really awesome.

It was such a heartwarming experience to see these kids light up with curiosity and excitement. We're just thrilled that we could share our knowledge and make science more accessible and enjoyable for these kids who might not get these opportunities often.

We presented our project in a National level Conference- Sustainability and Interdisciplinarity in Chemical Sciences (SICS) 2023, hosted by Department of Chemical Sciences and Department of Biological Sciences, IISER Kolkata in collaboration with Indian Photobiology Society from July 13 to 15, 2023.

We engaged in meaningful discussions with other students, faculties, and external professors. During our presentation, we focused on making our project accessible and engaging for the diverse audience. The mathematical and biological aspects of our work were explained in a way that everyone could appreciate, from the BS-MS students eager to learn to the experienced faculties seeking interdisciplinary insights.

On September 1st, we got a chance to greet 200 fresh faces at our college. We took this opportunity to introduce the exciting world of synthetic biology to these newcomers, especially those venturing into the biosciences department. Our aim was simple: to show them how their biology education could become a powerful tool to address global challenges, and how the taste of interdisciplinary can be gained from here. We wanted to plant the seed of curiosity and inspire them to consider forming their iGEM teams in the future.The session was very interactive and we got many interesting questions and ideas our way.

In collaboration with Dr. Neelanjana Sengupta’s lab and Dr. Ashwini Kumar Tiwari’s Lab, we hosted workshops on MD Simulations and in-silico genetic circuit design. These workshops aimed to introduce Molecular Modeling, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, and the use of Snapgene software for in-silico gene editing and designing. The workshops combined lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on training to familiarize participants with these concepts and empower them to apply these techniques in their studies and research. A total of 21 students from Kalyani Mahavidyalaya attended the 2-day workshop, and following the event, the institute's Head of Department expressed appreciation and conveyed that the students found the workshop valuable and informative.

Birla Institute of Technology's Biotechnology Lab offers cutting-edge facilities for hands-on biotechnology experiments, from basic cell biology to advanced DNA analysis. Their short-term training program provides practical demonstrations and hands-on training, introducing Undergraduate students to biotech lab equipment and microbiology techniques. We collaborated with them to discuss our project with them. We had an interactive session discussing CRISPR, bacterial biofilms, and how to stop growth of biofilms with them. Moreover, we also provided hands-on training on Bacterial serial dilutions, bacterial streaking and colony inoculation.

Our team got an opportunity to visit an old-age home too. Saptarshi Maity from our team went there, which was near our institute, nestled in the serene surroundings of Buddha Park, Kalyani, in the Nadia District of West Bengal, India. During this heartfelt encounter, we engaged in a crucial conversation about antibiotics and their responsible use.

With compassion and empathy, we raised awareness among the residents about the importance of taking antibiotics only under the guidance of a qualified physician. Additionally, we took the opportunity to describe our project in simple and relatable terms, including those at the old age home. Through this visit, we aimed to foster understanding, care, and a sense of responsibility within our community, promoting both health and well-being.

We hope, informing older adults about science is essential for informed decision-making, and bridging generational gaps in technology awareness. It empowers them to actively engage in discussions and contribute to shaping the future.

To ensure that everyone could understand ‘Xanthacinator’ and its applications, we created a comic. It is written in a simple and friendly manner, so that anyone can grasp the potential of our tool. We have utilized this comic strip as a tool to support our communication efforts and raise awareness about the impact of ‘Xanthacinator’ in combating bacterial blight in rice among the general population. With the help of this comic strip, we revealed our project in the 5-Days summer camp in Kalyani Public School.

We have created a storybook, available in both English and Dutch, through our collaboration with Team Wageningen. This literary project is driven by the creativity of students, with a selection process organized in partnership with the Lit Club of IISER Kolkata to choose the most compelling story.

Our storybook offers an Indian perspective on children's lives with a touch of fantasy to ignite young imaginations. To ensure it's both enjoyable and educational, we've simplified complex scientific terms into plain language, making the story accessible to children.

The Dutch version of our storybook is particularly noteworthy for our commitment to spreading knowledge globally. Collaborating with Team Wageningen, we aim to promote the importance of science and storytelling not only locally but worldwide.

Creating this storybook involved meticulous planning. We carefully documented the storyline and designed captivating illustrations to engage young readers. Beyond its educational value, we envision our storybook as a tool for parents to impart moral values to their children. The vibrant visuals enhance the comprehension of life lessons within the narrative.

In essence, our storybook is more than just a tale; it's a gateway to knowledge, creativity, and character development, nurturing a love for storytelling and science in children.

We printed some copies of this story book and distributed them among the childrens in Garden High School.

Undoubtedly, music possesses the incredible power to unite us all, transcending boundaries and languages. It's a universal language that resonates with every individual worldwide. But here's the exciting part - it can also serve as a powerful tool for deepening our understanding of specific topics, particularly for students.

With this in mind, Team iGEM IISER Kolkata conducted a unique event known as ‘MUSIC PARODY’ in collaboration with the Music Club of IISER Kolkata. Our goal was to effectively communicate the intriguing concepts of synthetic biology to both the general public and students alike. We planned to make a music video with this parody too.

We recognised that music has the potential to benefit everyone, including students with physical impairments. It aids in concentration and can even influence movement. This awareness fueled our determination to use music as a medium to introduce the captivating world of synthetic biology.

Under the theme of synthetic biology, we invited participants to explore a wide spectrum, from crafting parodies to composing their own songs. This creative freedom not only showcased the immense creativity within the student community but also served as a testament to the idea that science can be made accessible and engaging for the masses. Our initiative garnered enthusiastic responses.

Our team also conducted a Doodle Making Competition in collaboration with the Art Club of IISER Kolkata and we got a stunning painting entry that beautifully depicted the fascinating world of biology. Some of these remarkable entries are proudly exhibited below, embodying the spirit of exploration and innovation.

We did an Google form based consumer survey to understand if the consumers are aware of the farmer’s problems, if they are aware about the usage of transgenic crops etc. Upon analyzing the survey results, we recognized the need to reach out to the wider consumer community and address their concerns. To bridge the information gap, we launched a multi-faceted awareness campaign designed to educate and inform.

We designed posters, pamphlets and leveraged the power of social media to spread awareness among the common people. Detailed informations about Bacterial Blight disease, the Impact of Xanthomonas, Antibiotics, and the innovative Crispr-Cas system were presented to the common people through this poster, pamphlets and social media posts.

Through these engaging campaigns, we aimed to provide clarity, answer questions, and empower consumers with knowledge about the world of genetically modified crops and the groundbreaking solutions we are working on.

We tried to connect with a large mass via social media too. We did informative posts about bacterial blight, CRISPR-Cas system, genetic circuits, biopesticides vs. chemical pesticides, antibiotics and development of antibiotic resistance, etc.

We aimed to do our part in making academia a better place for the queer community, and in inspiring them to pursue science. Inclusivity is the key to creating a better world for everyone to live in. Rising above the limits imposed by gender and societal constructs is essential for progress in STEM, and awareness about such issues will help the masses overcome the general stigma associated with the issue and create a better workspace for everybody. With this motivation, we conducted an informative Series on LGBTQ+ in Science. The overarching goal was to promote inclusivity, raise awareness, and foster a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals in scientific fields.

We also conducted a weekly series of fun quizzes on basic synthetic biology techniques and concepts.

Pravega Carvaan in Kolkata: Collaboration with IISc team IISc Bangalore set the stage for Pravega, an exciting undergraduate fest that celebrated the realms of Science, Technology, and Culture. Among the array of remarkable events, there was Carvaann, hosted at the B.D. Auditorium in Salt Lake City, Kolkata, on June 17-18, 2023.

In a harmonious collaboration, iGEM IISER Kolkata, represented by the dynamic trio of Pratyay Pal, Tannistha Roy, and Tanusree Mondal, took part in this grand event. They brought forth a vision of enlightenment, presenting engaging posters that demystified the intricate worlds of Mathematics in Biology and provided a comprehensive overview of Synthetic Biology.

Our aim was to raise awareness not just within the scientific community but among the broader spectrum of society too. The audience consisted of individuals from various walks of life, united by a common curiosity about the wonders of science. Together, they embarked on a journey to explore the intersection of knowledge and imagination.

Science city, Kolkata is probably one of the biggest facilities for public science communications in Kolkata as well as in the entire state of West Bengal. Being located near the place, we didn’t miss the opportunity to take our project to the public and get some feedback from different perspectives in the process.

Two posters were presented in an exhibition kind of setup inside the Dynamotion building. Our team, represented by the trio of Pratyay Pal, Tannistha Roy and Avijit Majumder successfully engaged in explaining the basic ideas of synthetic biology and our brand for this project to a variety of audience from different age, ethnic and financial status groups.

Apart from raising awareness in the public, we received valuable inputs from the education officer of Science city, Mr Sougata Das (who is a chemist by training) on making the project more purposeful towards the stakeholders.

AIIM (Annual Indian iGEM Meet) is a vibrant annual gathering where diverse iGEM teams from across India meet to share their incredible projects, foster collaborations, and expand the horizons of synthetic biology in our country. This year, we showcased our project's facets, spanning Biomodelling, Math Modelling, and Human Practices, alongside fellow Indian teams, online.

It is primarily recognized for its mock jamboree-style presentation and evaluation sessions. During these sessions, teams have the opportunity to explore the work of other teams and establish potential collaborations. They also receive valuable feedback and constructive advice aimed at enhancing the quality of their projects." Beyond the presentations, the gathering embraced the spirit of learning and engagement with an array of fun activities, talks, workshops, and more. It was a valuable and enjoyable experience that left us even more enthusiastic about the world of synthetic biology.

Elevated pitch competition was a part of AIIM organised by Shreya Kulkarni, on behalf of iGEM Startups where iGEM teams could pitch their innovative idea or product in 3 minutes. (The problem we are addressing, the solution we have proposed and how it can be a viable product in the market).

Adrika and Saptarshi, two members of the iGEM IISER Kolkata team, proudly represented our pitch at this session of the All India iGEM Meeting 2023. During this engaging event, we had the privilege of receiving valuable feedback from our judges. Their insights and suggestions contributed to our project's refinement.

The IISER-Kolkata Campus Radio team organized a complete team interview for us. This helped us not only to connect with our fellow campus residents but also extend our outreach to the broader community beyond the walls of IISER Kolkata. Here we tried to demystify the world of iGEM and synthetic biology and its associated concepts, making them more accessible and relatable to all.

The radio interview was conducted by the adept duo of Sayantan Khan and Aritra Das. This dynamic pair skillfully navigated the waves of conversation, bringing to life our mission and vision.

With eager anticipation, we, the dedicated members of the iGEM team, gathered around the microphones to lend our voices and insights to this transformative dialogue. Amongst us were the following team members who shared about our project and also about our experiences and learning with working on this project for the past 5 months: Swarnendu Panda, Baivab Kumar Saha, Tannistha Roy, Avijit Majumder, Adrika Chaudhuri, Pratyay Pal, Sudipta Majumder, Tanusree Mondal, Saptarshi Maity, Swarnendu Saha, and Aniket Sabar.

Together, we embarked on a journey to not only unveil the mysteries of iGEM but also to plant the seeds of understanding and curiosity in the young minds of our community.

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/UWMP-Vbbu1k?si=X_K4nxPm-vBHFGOX

IISER Kolkata Campus Radio also organized an insightful interview session that featured prominent figures including faculty. Advisors, Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI, the Director of the institute, and esteemed Deans have been interviewed. This illuminating conversation allowed us to gain valuable insights into how the academic community, with its collective expertise and support, fortifies and propels our ambitious project, Xanthacinator. It was a profound exploration of the synergy between academia and scientific innovation.

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/cdQ8RpLWipQ?si=b5SKOGRzE_n5qA3L

We have taken our commitment to science communication to the digital realm by creating a series of informative instrumentation videos. These engaging videos, featured on our YouTube and social media pages, showcase essential laboratory equipment such as the Gel Doc, UV transilluminator, Heat Bath, and Laminar Hood. Each video not only highlights their roles in our project but also serves as a valuable resource for spreading knowledge and understanding about these critical scientific tools.

In the first video our instrumentation video series, we explore Gel Doc technology which helps to perform DNA visualization using agarose gels or protein analysis with SDS gels.

https://youtube.com/shorts/YlbEMEMBJJU?si=IdZ46u_YWDCfwYTR In the second video, we learn about laminar hood which establishes a meticulously purified environment, ensuring a contamination-free workspace for crucial experiments. https://youtube.com/shorts/p-hRK-OEhsU?si=ypoGtI0W3ZdjX6vb

In the third video, we know about Transilluminator. https://youtube.com/shorts/g9tx7Nh4y-I?si=qxPVDbJ_1DlgZnc0 In the final video of the series, we explain how Waterbaths are used. https://youtube.com/shorts/_Xmhu02IR64?si=VECeL1rSqbxrg8WR

We visited schools to instill an early enthusiasm for science among students. We engaged with colleges to motivate the upcoming generation of scientists, and we dedicated time to heartwarming sessions with children from orphanages.

Next we went on conducting webinars as they provide direct access to experts and experienced professionals who can share their knowledge and insights on various topics. Peers and researchers not just from our institute but from many other external institutes actively participated in these webinars, extracting valuable insights from it. Furthermore, these sessions featured esteemed professors and experts who shared their profound knowledge, resulting in a comprehensive intellectual gathering encompassing topics ranging from control of bacterial blight to fluctuations in biology to actin-active composites to study lipid membrane to bacterial extracellular vesicles. The overarching goal was to render science in an approachable and fun way.

Webinar 1: Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae a vascular pathogen of rice: Control of Bacterial Leaf Blight by genome engineering https://static.igem.wiki/teams/4781/wiki/website-images/hp/webinar1.pdf

Dr. Manoj Prasad, Professor and JC Bose National Fellow at the National Institute of Plant Genomics in New Delhi talked about controlling Bacterial Leaf Blight through genome engineering in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae – the sneaky vascular pathogen that messes with our rice plants. For more information, check out the youtube link below. YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/4TvPVVsdpjU

Webinar 2: Understanding the Social Language and Virulence Mechanisms of Bacteria: Strategy for Designing Disease Interference for Xanthomonas oryzae https://static.igem.wiki/teams/4781/wiki/website-images/hp/webinar2.pdf

Dr. Subhadeep Chatterjee, the Principal Investigator of Laboratory of Plant-Microbe Interactions at the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics in Hyderabad

X. oryzae, the causative agent of bacterial blight in rice, relies on a complex interplay of molecular signals and virulence factors to infect its host plants. He discussed how by deciphering the bacterial social language, which includes quorum sensing and intercellular signaling, researchers can identify key communication pathways essential for infection. Additionally, he shared an in-depth knowledge of X. oryzae's virulence mechanisms, such as the secretion of effector molecules and manipulation of the host's defense responses, which is crucial in developing interventions that disrupt the pathogenic process. For more information, check out the youtube link below. YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/JfFnJ0oUBVU

Webinar 3: Fluctuations in Biology https://static.igem.wiki/teams/4781/wiki/website-images/hp/webinar3.pdf Prof. Suman Kumar Banik from Bose Institute in Kolkata. Prof. Banik, a distinguished expert in biology, had something truly remarkable to offer.

In this captivating webinar, Prof. Banik commenced with the fundamentals of chemical kinetics and then guided us through the creation of a mathematical model for gene expression. We delved into the world of single-cell gene expression, examining the diverse sources of noise that contribute to phenotypic heterogeneity. For more information, check out the youtube link below. YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/V17aECS9naI?si=XgFhJqJ18AXWo6D3

Webinar 4: A lipid membrane – actin active composite as a minimal system to study mechanisms governing cell membrane organisation https://static.igem.wiki/teams/4781/wiki/website-images/hp/webinar4.pdf

In our fourth webinar, we hosted Dr. Darius Koester from the University of Warwick, and his journey through the world of experimental physics was nothing short of fascinating. He's been on a quest to understand cell surface mechanics, from unraveling the mysteries of Caveolae's role in buffering cell membrane tension to deciphering protein clustering in cell plasma membranes.

He talked about reconstitution of cytokinetic ring machinery diving deep into understanding cell membrane organization and mechano-sensing. For more information, check out the youtube link below. YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/qYldMOR8AfU

Webinar 5: Bacterial Extracellular Vesicles (BEVs) as Multimodal Delivery Platform for Biomedical Applications https://static.igem.wiki/teams/4781/wiki/website-images/hp/webinar5.pdf

In our finale of the webinar series, we had the pleasure of hosting our very own Prof. Dr. Amirul Islam Mallick, from Department of Biological Sciences at IISER Kolkata.

Dr. Mallick ttalked about BEVs, how BEVs play a crucial role in cell-cell communication, thanks to their tiny size and unique compositions. They're like miniature delivery trucks for all things prophylactic and therapeutic. YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/rvrOLDyB-U0?si=3HdLGalKHNm1rJPA

In order to spread awareness widely about Bacterial Blight disease in rice fields and our project across all sections of Indian society, we chose newspapers, a universally accessible medium.

We got the opportunity to share our updates in the agriculture sections of newspapers, directly targeting the general public and the farmers. We're passionate about raising awareness among consumers as well. This is not just about spreading information; it's a full-fledged awareness programme, ushering in a new era of scientific progress that everyone can be a part of.

Our efforts were published in two national Hindi-based dailies, the Kolkata and Ranchi-based Sanmarg, and the Nagpur-based Navabharat dailies. These prominent publications played a vital role in amplifying our message to a broader audience, reinforcing our commitment to reaching every corner of our diverse nation.

Also, Bengali news-paper, based on Kolkata, a member of the Times Of India Group also took the story up on their 12th of October issue.

Collaboration with Bengali Little Magazine Ramdhanu In order to spread awareness widely about Bacterial Blight disease in rice fields, the importance of tackling it and our project, we also planned to disseminate these essential informations through an article published by a local science organization. The objective was to educate local communities and farmers, preventing the disease from advancing to lethal stages in rice plants. The objective was to educate local communities and farmers, preventing the disease from advancing to lethal stages in rice plants. We considered implementing a chain process. By raising awareness among the general public about the challenges faced by farmers, we envisioned that individuals could share this information with nearby farmers. Additionally, those with expertise, such as professors or scientists, might identify solutions independently.

To put this plan into action, we made a collaboration with ‘Ramdhanu’, a small magazine run by intellectually inclined college students in Dinhata. Dinhata serves as the sub-divisional headquarters of Dinhata, located in the Coochbehar district of West Bengal, India. This magazine holds a special place among local school and college students, as well as intellectuals in the region. It serves as a valuable platform for sharing knowledge and ideas.

Through our collaboration with ‘Ramdhanu’, we aimed to extend our reach beyond the bustling metropolis of Kolkata, reaching out to people living in more remote areas. We firmly believe that this initiative is a crucial step toward building awareness about bacterial blight among those who may not have easy access to metropolitan or cosmopolitan resources. It's all about bridging the gap and ensuring that essential knowledge reaches every corner of our diverse society.

We're excited to share that we've teamed up with the Breakthrough Science Society. There's a new article in the works, set to be published in their prestigious 'BREAKTHROUGH' journal. This society is all about boosting scientific knowledge and making sure everyone understands important scientific topics. They're leading the way in spreading awareness and getting people involved in science.

Our news was posted in the monthly newsletter of IISER Kolkata. They connect us not only within our own institute but also with neighboring educational and research institutions. The impact goes beyond, reaching the corridors of fellow IISERs and spreading knowledge to the wider world of innovation.

Our online game, meticulously crafted within the Python IDE, offered a dynamic platform for learning and exploration. But it was more than just a game; it was an immersive journey where players became virtual farmers, tackling the challenges of agriculture and bacterial blight.

Imagine a game akin to Wordle, where players encounter a hint flashing before them, serving as a clue for the target word related to agriculture or bacteria. It was a trial-and-error endeavor, and the thrill lay in guessing the word correctly. If players guessed right, they emerged victorious. However, if they didn't quite hit the mark but provided a word with common letters, the game offered a second hint, leading to a deeper understanding of the concept.

During our field surveys, while interacting with residents in various villages and consulting with various stakeholders such as professors, scientists, agriculture officers, members of agriculture associations, and biocontrol industry professionals, it became evident that there was a pressing need for an extensive awareness campaign and educational outreach targeting farmers and their families.

In response to this critical requirement, we initiated an effort to identify key messages that could effectively communicate the gravity of this disease. We realized that a good old play was the best way to get the message across because it is interesting and relatable.

Our street play was designed to address the primary issue afflicting the farming community: lack of awareness. We initiated dialogues surrounding the challenges they confront and explored the solutions we were developing. Through the play's narrative, our objective was to assist them in recognizing the presence and symptoms of bacterial blight, guiding them through the utilization of our innovative detection kit and the procedure to combat this agricultural threat.

Notably, the residents of the village not only attended our play but actively engaged with us, offering invaluable feedback. Their response was truly heartening as they conveyed that this interaction had a profound impact on their comprehension of bacterial blight and the potential remedies. This endorsement served as the ultimate validation of our endeavors, affirming that we were indeed on the correct path to effecting a significant and meaningful change.

While conducting field surveys and engaging with residents in various villages, a pressing need for a comprehensive mass awareness campaign became abundantly clear. It was crucial to reach out not only to the farmers but also to their families, as they are directly affected by the challenges posed by bacterial blight.

In response to this imperative, we embarked on a mission to identify specific key points that would enable us to convey the true implications of this disease effectively. That's when it struck us that there exists no medium more engaging and relatable than a good old-fashioned play!

Our play was meticulously crafted to tackle the most fundamental issue plaguing the farming community: ignorance. We initiated dialogues about the problems they face and delved into the solutions we were developing. Through the play's narrative, we aimed to help them recognize the presence and symptoms of bacterial blight, guiding them through our innovative detection kit and the procedure to combat this agricultural menace.

The residents of the village not only watched our play but also actively engaged with us, providing invaluable feedback. Their response was heartening, as they expressed that this interaction had made a profound impact on their understanding of bacterial blight and the potential solutions. This affirmation was the ultimate validation of our efforts, affirming that we were indeed on the right path to making a meaningful difference.

To ensure that our message reached the widest possible audience, we distributed pamphlets in both Hindi and Bengali, the most commonly spoken languages in the region. These pamphlets served as invaluable resources, providing essential information in languages that the community members were most comfortable with.

By making our materials accessible in their native languages, we aimed to bridge any language barriers and ensure that the knowledge we were sharing could be easily understood and utilized when needed. This thoughtful approach helped the common people to gain the knowledge and resources required to address agricultural challenges effectively.

Let's delve into the details of our extensive door-to-door awareness program. Our mission was to ensure that we reached every corner of the farming community to disseminate knowledge and raise awareness about the challenges and potential solutions in agriculture.

In the fertile lands of West Bengal, specifically in Birohi and Madandanga within the Kalyani Subdivision of Nadia District, as well as in the agricultural heartlands of Dakshin Dinajpur District, Hili in Balurghat Sadar Subdivision, our team members embarked on a journey of engagement. With pamphlets in hand, we went door to door, meeting with local residents and farmers. The pamphlets served as valuable resources to educate them about the various issues faced in farming.

Our insights and understanding of these problems were gleaned from direct interactions with farmers of diverse backgrounds, as well as conversations with pesticide and fungicide dealers. These interactions provided us with invaluable perspectives from the grassroots level and allowed us to tailor our awareness campaigns to the specific needs of each region.

Expanding our reach beyond the boundaries of West Bengal, we also extended our awareness efforts to the farmlands of Kolhapur in Maharashtra and Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh. While our dedicated team members couldn't physically be present in these regions, our mission to educate remained unwavering. To ensure the success of this endeavor, we sought the assistance of local friends and supporters who generously helped us extend the reach of our message.

This collaborative approach allowed us to connect with diverse farming communities and foster a deep understanding of their unique challenges and needs. Through these initiatives, we aimed to empower farmers and consumers alike with knowledge and potential solutions, forging a path toward a more sustainable and informed agricultural future.

Throughout the iGEM Project, we have tried to make education and outreach one of our utmost priorities. We have ensured that we have reached to every member of the society, and have delivered our materials and activities rightly to the target audience, engaging them to interact with us, so that both of us get benefitted by mutual learning. We have assured that we have made significant contribution in educating the farmers, which was one of the most important goals of our project. We tried our best to make science accessible to everyone.