Tsolmon Bazarragchaa Summer 2023

This summer, Tsolmon Bazarragchaa (Physics '24) is interning at the SELCO Foundation in Bangalore, India!

Read the interview below with Tsolmon to learn more!

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How do you get to work? How do you get around in general?

I have tried all types of commuting including walking, taking a bus, taking an auto, and taking an Uber. Depending on how early I get up, I either take an auto or a bus. Autos are perfect for the South Indian warm climate and Bangalore’s busy traffic. They are open, small, fast, and a cheap option which has been adopted very widely here.

What is your work/internship like day-to-day?

I am interning with the Resilient Micro Businesses team at SELCO Foundation and working on energy and technology evaluations and improvements for food processing for snacks such as papad and puffed rice. I go for field visits to evaluate the implemented solar powered papad press machines and puffed rice roasters. At the office, I work with the team and other teams to write up my observations on energy efficiency and user interaction with the machines and propose possible design improvements. 

What is an aspect of your work that you're excited about?

I am really excited about visiting rural entrepreneurs and seeing how off grid solar powered technologies are improving their livelihoods in a sustainable way. Coming here, I am learning so much about sustainable inclusive global development.

Have you visited any new/exciting places?

I visited Bengaluru Palace, Mysuru Palace, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, and some Hindu temples. The palaces here have beautiful architecture and are always interesting to see. 

Have you tried any new foods you enjoyed or seen anything new?

India has lots of good small snacks (chaats). I have tried pani puri, masala puri, puffed rice—all I enjoyed. My recent favorite food is Andhra food served on banana leaf.