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Canada honours 11 NRIs for their achievements
A scientist whose invention is powering NASA spacesuits, and a paramedic are among the outstanding Indo-Canadians.
A Kolkata-born scientist whose invention is powering NASA astronaut's suits, and a paramedic who reached out to tsunami-hit people and quake victims in Pakistan, are among 11 Indo-Canadians honoured by Prime Minister Stephen Harper for their outstanding achievements in the field of business, science and humanitarian work.
The awards were presented at the Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) Annual awards on Saturday night. Over 1200 people attended the function.
Kolkata man Dr Sankar Das Gupta, who has more than 200 global patents to his name, has seen his invention go as far as outer space.
NASA is using his patented lithium ion-super-polymer battery technology to power the life support system for astronaut's suits.
In partnership with Microsoft, he has also developed the Scribbler, a wireless laptop that runs eight to 10 hours on one charge and weighs less than 1.4 kg.
He has also designed a Green Car, which is powered by same technology (Lithium ion super polymer technology) that could go 300 kms on a single charge at a cost of Rs 80.
"Round the world there are 750 million vehicles. They are all burning oil and contributing to global warming," Dr Das Gupta, 55, founder and Chief Executive Office of Electrovaya said adding this is a serious option that should be considered.
Prof Asit K Biswas was honoured for his excellent contributions in evolving water resources management practices.
"Technology does not recognise geographic boundaries," he said adding, "It must belong to mankind."
