TKMM CONNECT

25 July, 2025

INTERDEPARTMENTAL QUIZ COMPETITION COMMEMORATING INTERNATIONAL MOON DAY, 2025 ORGANIZED BY RESEARCH & PG DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

The Postgraduate Department of Physics organized an interdepartmental quiz
competition on the occasion of Moon Day celebrations. The program was conducted on
the 25th of July, 2025, at 11:45 AM in the Zoology Seminar Hall. The primary objective
of the event was to promote interest in lunar science and space-related topics among
students from various disciplines.
The entire program was organized and conducted by the second year MSc Physics
students under the guidance of the faculty members. Total of forty-four students from
different departments of the college participated enthusiastically in the quiz. The
competition was structured into multiple rounds to assess the participants' general
knowledge, visual recognition skills, and scientific understanding.
The first round comprised twenty multiple-choice questions.
This round served as the preliminary stage of the competition. Based on their
performance, eleven students were shortlisted for the second round.The second round
focused on visual identification and conceptual clarity. In the first part of this round,
students were shown six images related to moon missions, lunar surfaces, or space
science, and they were asked to identify each image without any given options. In the
next part, five more questions were asked where no options were provided, testing the
students’ deeper understanding of scientific concepts. As the scores were close among
some participants, a final tie-breaker round was held, consisting of five additional
questions to determine the winners.
After the completion of all rounds, the winners of the competition were announced. The
first prize was awarded to Karthik V from the Mathematics Department. The second
prize went to Madhav Pradeep, also from the Mathematics Department. The third prize
was secured by Abhi D Abhilash from the Physics Department.
The Moon Day Quiz Program was a grand success. It served not only as an academic
competition but also as a platform to encourage scientific curiosity and interdisciplinary
learning. The dedication of the organizing team, the enthusiastic involvement of
participants, and the support from faculty members all contributed to the smooth and
memorable execution of the event.

18 July, 2025

Ganita Vaayana: National Reading Month Celebrations 2025 @ Department of Mathematics

In connection with the 30^th P.N. Panicker National Reading Month, observed from June 19 to July 18, 2025, the Department of Mathematics organized a month-long reading and discussion program titled "Ganita Vaayana". This initiative aimed to cultivate reading habits among students while deepening their appreciation for the rich mathematical heritage of Kerala and beyond.

As part of the program, students actively engaged in discussions on selected books published by the Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad (KSSP). These books, written in Malayalam, were carefully chosen to make mathematical ideas accessible, engaging, and contextually rooted in the cultural and scientific legacy of Kerala.

Some of the notable books selected for the reading sessions include:

· Kanakkinte Kilivathil (The Window of Mathematics) – A popular series that presents mathematical concepts in a simple, relatable, and enjoyable manner.

· Ganitha Kauthukam – A fascinating book that explores various mathematical curiosities, as the name suggests.

· Ganitha Sastram (Mathematics) – A general title under which KSSP publishes various works addressing different mathematical themes and principles.

· Shastragathi (Scientific Odyssey) – A compilation of essays and articles discussing the scientific and mathematical aspects of socially relevant issues.

· Shastrakeralam (Science Kerala) – A regular publication by KSSP promoting scientific awareness, which includes significant mathematical content.

· Other important works such as Kanakkarivu, Ganitha Sasthrathile Athikayanmar, and Sasthra Charithram Jeevacharithrangaliloode were also explored, shedding light on the historical and philosophical aspects of mathematics.

Through this program, students gained insights into the history, philosophy, and cultural evolution of mathematics, especially highlighting the contributions of the Kerala School of Mathematics. They were intrigued to discover how advanced concepts such as calculus were already in use in Kerala centuries before their formal recognition in Europe.

For instance, the works of Sangamagrama Madhava and Puthumana Somayaji—notably Venwaroham and Karana Paddhati—demonstrated sophisticated ideas resembling modern-day calculus. The exact value of π calculated in these texts amazed the students. They learned that while Europe in the 18th century debated whether Newton or Leibniz was the true father of calculus, Kerala had already developed such concepts by the 15th century.

The students also noted that many of these early Kerala mathematical works were composed in Sanskrit verses (slokas), which contributed to their lesser-known status in the mainstream mathematical discourse. However, modern studies and translations are gradually bringing this valuable legacy to light.

Overall, the Ganita Vaayana program provided a unique and enriching experience. It not only encouraged students to read and reflect on mathematical texts in their regional language but also deepened their intellectual connection with the subject. By understanding the historical roots and cultural context of mathematical discoveries, students developed a newfound enthusiasm and intimacy with mathematics.

The discussions were led by the Head of the Department, Smt. Sinumol S, along with the faculty members Smt. Renjini S, Dr. Dhanya Shajin, Sri. M.K Sreenivasan and Sri.Sivaprasad P.S. They guided the students in selecting suitable books, provided valuable insights during the discussions, and continuously encouraged the participants to engage deeply with the content. The Department of Mathematics looks forward to continuing such initiatives that blend history, culture, and mathematical inquiry in future academic years.

03 July, 2025

Mind Matters: A Mental Health Awareness Session by Jeevani @ Department of Mathematics

As part of the Jeevani initiative, psychologist Ms. Noora M conducted a mental health awareness session for the first and second-year students of the Department of Mathematics on 03.07.2025. The session aimed to introduce students to the fundamentals of mental health and highlight its significance in both academic and personal life.

Ms. Noora began by explaining the concept of mental health in simple, relatable terms. She clarified that mental health is not merely the absence of illness but encompasses emotional well-being, effective coping strategies, and overall life balance.

Addressing common challenges faced by students in rigorous academic settings, she spoke about issues such as performance pressure, burnout, feelings of isolation, and self-doubt. She emphasized how, if ignored, these concerns could gradually impact concentration, motivation, interpersonal relationships, and self-esteem.

The session underscored the importance of emotional regulation, peer support, and fostering open communication as tools for managing everyday stress. A key takeaway was the value of seeking help early, before challenges escalate, and utilizing the resources offered through the Jeevani program.

Encouraging students to cultivate a compassionate and supportive environment within their department, Ms. Noora concluded with a call to normalize conversations around mental health. The session was interactive and well-received, with active participation and genuine interest from students, who appreciated the opportunity to engage in an open and stigma-free discussion.