Class 9 Student from Meghalaya Wins Jury Award for Smart Gas Leak Detection System
A young innovator from Meghalaya has earned widespread recognition after developing a smart device designed to detect gas leaks and prevent potential accidents. The student, studying in the ninth grade, received the Jury Award at the North East Science Fair and Innovation Festival, impressing judges with a solution that combines practical safety with advanced technology.
Meet the Young Innovator Behind the Device
James Donald Kharkongor, a student at Mawangap District Christian Multipurpose Higher Secondary School, was honored for his creation at a regional event organized by the National Science Centre in Guwahati, which operates under the National Council of Science Museums. Hailing from the village of Laitpyntar Sinrangkyaban in East Khasi Hills district, James comes from a modest family background — his father works as a school teacher while his mother manages the household.
When asked about what drove him to build this system, James shared a simple yet powerful motivation: “I want to contribute my ideas to nation-building.” His words reflect a growing spirit of innovation among young students in the region, who are increasingly looking to solve real-world problems through science and technology.
How the Smart LPG Safety System Works
The device, described as a smart LPG safety and risk prevention system, is built around several integrated features that work together to ensure household safety:
- Continuous air quality monitoring: Advanced gas sensors track the air at regular intervals to detect any unusual rise in gas concentration.
- Audible alarm: When gas levels cross the safe threshold, a buzzer immediately activates, alerting residents to the danger.
- Automatic exhaust fan: Simultaneously, a built-in exhaust fan switches on to disperse the accumulated gas, significantly reducing the risk of ignition.
- Solenoid valve shutdown: One of the standout features is the automatic solenoid valve that cuts off the gas supply the moment a leak is detected, preventing further leakage and minimizing the chances of fire or explosion.
- IoT-based remote alerts: The system is also equipped with Internet of Things (IoT) technology, allowing users to receive real-time notifications and monitor their home remotely.
Recognition and Ongoing Support
Officials noted that the Jury Award was granted in recognition of the project’s practical relevance, technical integration, and potential social impact. The device addresses a common yet serious household hazard, making it a valuable innovation for communities that rely heavily on LPG for cooking and heating.
James is not alone in his journey. The Innovation Hub at the Shillong Science Centre has been actively mentoring him, offering hands-on training, technical guidance, and exposure to scientific platforms. This institutional support is helping the young innovator refine his skills and expand his understanding of how technology can be applied to everyday challenges.
His achievement stands as an inspiring example of how young minds, when given the right guidance and encouragement, can create solutions that have the power to protect lives and contribute meaningfully to society.
