In a remarkable achievement for Indian student innovation, Japteg Singh Bamrah, a Class 12 student from Dalhousie Public School, Jammu, has clinched the prestigious HonorsGradU 2025 Scholarship, securing the coveted “Build a Better Future” Award for his groundbreaking Solar Mech Engine. This milestone marks him as the first Indian since the program’s inception in 2012 to top the global list, bringing immense pride to the nation.
A Global Recognition
Mentored by Dr. Nasir Ul Rasheed, Senior Scientist at CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Jammu, under the Jigyasa Hackathon initiative, Japteg emerged as one of only five global winners out of thousands of entries worldwide. He has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship for his undergraduate education in the United States, an additional $5,000 grant for scaling his innovation, and a total grant of $31,000 to further refine his project. Notably, his Solar Mech Engine was recognized as the top technology among this year’s winners.
The Solar Mech Engine: A Sustainable Innovation
The Solar Mech Engine, which previously won the CSIR Jigyasa Hackathon 2024, is a standalone solar thermal system powered by Concentrated Heat and Power (CHP) technology. It leverages cyclic air expansion and contraction due to temperature differences to convert heat into mechanical energy. A standout feature is its low-resistance generator, which uses electromagnetic induction for efficient mechanical-to-electrical energy conversion. Additionally, its ability to function as a reversible heat pump enhances its efficiency, making it a promising solution for sustainable energy.
Mentorship and Support from CSIR-IIIM
Japteg developed his prototype at CSIR-IIIM’s state-of-the-art facilities, benefiting from cutting-edge research tools, industry connections, and expert mentorship. The institute’s open innovation ecosystem played a pivotal role in transforming his idea into a globally competitive technology. During the National Startup Festival on February 22–23, 2025, at CSIR-IIIM, Japteg presented his project to Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of Science and Technology and Vice President of CSIR, highlighting India’s support for grassroots innovation under the “Start-Up India, Stand-Up India” campaign.
Global Opportunities and Future Plans
Japteg’s innovation has earned him offers from over ten top universities in the USA, Australia, and Canada, with additional scholarships worth $16,000 per year for his undergraduate studies. With the $31,000 grant, he plans to refine his Solar Mech Engine and pursue higher education at a leading global university, continuing his journey as a sustainability pioneer.
A Moment of Pride for India
Organized by Honors Graduation, a U.S.-based non-profit, the HonorsGradU Scholarship is highly competitive, awarding only five projects annually for their potential to address global challenges. Japteg’s achievement underscores the power of mentorship, vision, and grassroots innovation. His success has been celebrated widely, with posts on X highlighting CSIR-IIIM’s role in mentoring this historic win.
Conclusion
Japteg Singh Bamrah’s journey from a school innovator to a global sustainability advocate is an inspiring testament to India’s growing prowess in student-driven innovation. His Solar Mech Engine not only positions India at the forefront of sustainable technology but also inspires young innovators nationwide.
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