Affordable Science And Innovation For Impact: Frugal Technologies In Health, Energy, And Environment By Young Scientists

This edited volume showcases a curated collection of student projects recognized by the Gandhian Young Technological Innovations (GYTI) awards. It highlights innovations that address real-world problems in healthcare, agriculture, energy, environment, and education. The book captures the spirit of young innovators who blend scientific ingenuity with a deep commitment to social impact and sustainability.

The GYTI awards were established by Honey bee Network and anchored by SRISTI to recognize the technological creativity of students who embody Gandhian principles—developing solutions rooted in empathy, inclusivity, and sustainability. These innovations are not just technically sound but are also aimed at enhancing human welfare and environmental conservation. Over the years, the awards have become a platform to celebrate ideas that challenge the status quo and reflect ethical responsibility. This compilation offers readers an in-depth look at the diverse ideas and approaches embraced by awardees, from frugal/MLM (More from Less for More)  innovations in healthcare delivery to eco-friendly farming solutions. Each project narrates a story of perseverance, scientific rigor, and a desire to make meaningful change. The book covers themes on electronics and technology, food technology, energy and environment, and medical technology and health.

This book is an essential read for students, researchers, academicians, policymakers, and innovation enthusiasts. It serves as both a source of inspiration and a practical reference for those working at the intersection of science, technology, and social development.

Dr. Swasti Dhagat is an accomplished biotechnologist and academic writer with a strong portfolio in scientific publishing and editorial management. She has co-authored and edited pivotal academic texts, including Recent Advances in Bioprocess Engineering and Bioreactor Design, Thermophiles for Biotech Industry: A Bioprocess Technology Perspective, and Computer-Aided Design of Antimicrobial Lipopeptides as Prospective Drug Candidates. Her editorial expertise extends to contributing chapters on drug design and microbial pathogenesis for reputed publishers. Currently, Dr. Dhagat serves as a Scientist and Laboratory Coordinator at the Sadbhav SRISTI Sansodhan Natural Product Laboratory under the Society for Research and Initiatives for Sustainable Technologies and Institutions (SRISTI). In this capacity, she leads the coordination of the prestigious Gandhian Young Technological Innovation (GYTI) Awards, overseeing the evaluation and recognition of student innovations across India. Additionally, she acts as the Principal Investigator for GSBTM-sponsored projects focused on sustainable agriculture and natural farming practices.

Shilpy has over 18 years of experience in research, innovation management and strategic partnerships with a strong focus on the India’s life sciences sector. She is currently working as Director-Research & Development office at the Ashoka University, one of the leading teaching and research University in India. Previously, she has worked with the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India, for over a decade. In her most recent role at BIRAC, she led partnerships with government, industry, philanthropies and global agencies, and drove strategic outreach and communication initiatives. She has designed, managed, and scaled large entrepreneurship and funding programmes of DBT and BIRAC. She regularly represented BIRAC at national and international fora. She loves to volunteer as an educator for underprivileged students. Shilpy holds a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from IIT Roorkee. She has also studied Public Policy at the ISB and is currently pursuing her Executive doctoral studies in Management (Business Environment) at IIM Lucknow.

Prof. Anil K Gupta is a visiting faculty, Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad; after retiring in 2017, besides Academy professor at AcSIR. He is also the founder of Honey Bee Network, National Innovation Foundation, Nifindia.org, SRISTI.org and, GIAN.org; Fellow, National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS); the World Academy of Art and Science, California; Indian National science Academy (INSA); Hon Fellow, ISAE; CSIR Bhatnagar Fellow, 2018-21. His mission is to expand the global as well as local space for innovations from and for grassroots, link technological ideas in informal and formal STI sector; ensure recognition, respect and reward for creative communities and youth. He facilitated Festival of Innovation (2015-2017) and Festival of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (FINE, 2018) through NIF hosted by the office of President of India (2018). SITARE-GYTI awards & GYTI awards given to bright technology students by HBN and SRISTI every year (in collaboration with BIRAC, DBT until 2022). HBNCRIIA awards are given by GIAN and HBN to outstanding innovation around the world and the country since 2021. Coordinated five international conferences on Creativity and Innovation at Grassroots-ICCIG (1997-2025) with the support of CMA, IIMA and other partners. He has pursued Shodhyatra, learning and sharing walk in every state of India covering more than 7000 km during 1998-2025 with Honey Bee Network volunteers and students of IIMA.