CSIR-SERC celebrates Diamond Jubilee, showcases 60 years of structural innovation

chennai: the csir-structural engineering research centre (csir-serc), chennai, marked its diamond jubilee on june 10, celebrating 60 years of pioneering structural engineering research and contributions to national infrastructure development.the day-long event began with a "stakeholder connect" meet, inaugurated by dr. v. govindaraj, head (r&d), l&t ecc division. addressing over 50 industry participants, dr. n. anandavalli, director, csir-serc, highlighted the institution's legacy and future research directions. her presentation, 60 years | one spirit, traced the centre's journey from roorkee to chennai and its significant technological advancements.dr. govindaraj lauded csir-serc's role in introducing cutting-edge technologies like ferrocement and high-strength deformed bars, calling for deeper academia-industry collaboration and enhanced focus on digital and fire-resistance research.an exhibition and technical presentations followed, showcasing six thrust areas of the centre, including disaster mitigation and offshore structures. dr. p. harikrishna delivered the vote of thanks.inthe afternoon, the main diamond jubilee celebration commenced, graced by prof. u. kamachi mudali, vice chancellor, hbni, and dr. ramji singh, dam safety review panel member. prof. mudali delivered the prof. g.s. ramaswamy memorial lecture on structural corrosion, emphasizing the need for a national policy on corrosion management.a highlight of the event was the virtual inauguration of the “construct 3d printpod,” a 3d-printed concrete building, and the release of two publications — a coffee table book and a compendium of 60 csir-serc technologies. former directors and 80 retired staff were felicitated.additional festivities included the inauguration of the acsir science club, prize distributions for student and staff competitions, and the launch of an eco-friendly battery vehicle for campus transport.the celebrations concluded with the physical inauguration of the 3d-printed structure, symbolizing csir-serc's forward-looking vision for 2040.