Seminar On Understanding Radiation

The District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) conducted a one-day Seminar on ‘Understanding Radiation’ today for their 200 Teacher Trainees undergoing two years Diploma in Teacher Education, coinciding with the inauguration of its Science Club named after the greatest scientist of India, Dr.Abdul Kalam, by Shri J.Daniel Chellappa, Senior Scientist of the Dept of Atomic Energy and the President of the Federation of Science Clubs of Tamilnadu (FSCT),a silver jubilee Science Popularisation organisation.


Dr. R. Ayyappan, Principal, DIET, in his presidential address stressed the role of the teachers in creating awareness on the multifaceted applications of radiation and radioisotopes among the students and public.


 Shri.G. Thangaraj, District Coordinator, National Green Corps (NGC). Department of Environment, Government of Tamil Nadu explained the role of the NGC and its activities. He also stressed the need for organizing field trips to renowned Research establishments like Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam to have a feel for the world-class achievements of our Indian scientists and engineers.


Miss A. Mary Jancy, Lecturer & coordinator, DIET Science Club, Chennai explained the dynamics of the Seminar. Shri J.Daniel Chellappa drove home the fact that Radiation is part and parcel of our life. We live in a sea of radiation. He explained the basics and cause for radioactivity. 


We enjoy its benefit in our day to day activities like disposable syringes, X-ray, cancer therapy etc. Radiation and radioactivity find numerous applications in agriculture, food-processing, healthcare, research and industries.


Characteristics of Alpha, Beta, Gamma / X-ray & Neutron radiation, and their safe handling to harness them for the betterment of mankind, were illustrated to the participants using power point presentations. 


The participating teacher trainees could understand and appreciate the role & contribution of radiation & radioactivity to the Country’s advancement including electricity generation.