Speakers included eminent professionals from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd., Department of Atomic Energy, and Atomic Energy Regulatory Boards. Their engaging talks provided valuable insights into the history and operations of nuclear power plants, including the evolutionary designs, commissioning and decommissioning, site selection and structural engineering safety, as well as aspects of nuclear materials and applications of rare earth elements.
Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath was the chief patron of the event. The inaugural session was presided over by Heads of Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Physics departments. Prof. B.A. Mir, honorary Secretary (IGS), convened the seminar, with Prof. Adnan Qayoom, Dr. Majid Hussain and Dr. Falak Zahoor as the coordinators. Post-graduate scholars of Geotechnical Engineering (Civil Department) played a vital role in the smooth conduction of the event.
The seminar attracted over 40 participants including UG and PG students from various disciplines of engineering and other sciences from several educational institutes. Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Ravinder Nath in his inaugural address, mentioned the tremendous opportunities presented by the event for UG and PG students. He also appreciated the efforts of NIT Srinagar and INS for providing a significant platform for professionals from all disciplines.
Prof. Ravinder Nath expressed the vision of NIT Srinagar to host more such future events pledging full support for the same. In his keynote address, Prof. J.A. Bhat (HOD, Civil Engineering) and Prof. Adnan Qayoom (HOD, Mechanical Engineering), highlighted the significance of the engineering disciplines in the effective development of nuclear power plants.
Various challenges during the construction and operation phases of the power plants were discussed, especially seismic hazards and other natural catastrophes. Prof. Ikram Ahmad (HOD, Physics) and Prof. M.A. Shah underlined the importance of various engineering and science disciplines to planning, building and security. They emphasised the importance of physics in the origin of nuclear power and materials.
Prof. B.A. Mir emphasised the role of geotechnical and geological engineering in the selection of proper sites for nuclear power plants as well as the construction of resilient foundations. In this respect, the indispensable role of geotechnical engineers and the responsibility of IGS were recognised.
Enthusiastic discussions between the participants and the speakers after the lectures created a motivational environment for learning and exchange of knowledge. The seminar presented a wonderful opportunity for interaction between academic institutions and the members of INS, opening up prospects of future collaborations in projects, internship opportunities, and exchange of expertise. The session concluded with the possibility of signing a memorandum of understanding between NIT Srinagar and the institutions associated with INS.