National Institute of Technology Srinagar, IIT Delhi organise orientation workshop on UBA for 51 PIs in J&K

• Experts highlight tech-driven solutions for rural growth, plastic pollution, renewable energy

SRINAGAR: The Regional Coordinating Institute (RCI), National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, in collaboration with the National Coordinating Institute (NCI), IIT Delhi, on Tuesday organized a one-day orientation workshop on Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) for the Participating Institutions (PIs) across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

The workshop drew enthusiastic participation from 51 representatives of higher educational institutions across the region, with a focus on strengthening the role of academia in rural transformation. The program was inaugurated by Prof. M.F. Wani, Regional Coordinator of RCI NIT Srinagar and member of the National Executive Committee of UBA.

Prof. M.F. Wani expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Education (MoE) and NCI IIT Delhi for their guidance and financial support in advancing the mission of UBA. He also thanked Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, Prof. Atikur Rehman, Registrar, and the entire NIT administration for their continuous encouragement and support.

During the session, Prof. Wani presented a detailed progress report on UBA activities in the region and outlined plans aimed at strengthening the program’s impact. The Institute’s Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, who was the Guest of Honour on the occasion, reflected on the long journey of the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), recalling the challenges and uncertainties that marked its early days.

“Through consistent efforts and visionary guidance, particularly from Prof. M.F. Wani, NIT Srinagar has today emerged as a strong Regional Coordinating Institute under UBA,” Prof. Rehman said.  He added that the success of UBA lies not only in academic discussions but in creating a real bridge between institutions of higher learning and the needs of villages.

“When academia and villages join hands, they can discover solutions that are both practical and locally relevant. This partnership can help transform rural life in sustainable ways, while also allowing students and researchers to learn from ground realities,” Prof. Rehman added.

Ms. Manavee Ajit Singh, Senior Project Scientist at UBA IIT Delhi, conducted a live demonstration of the newly launched UBA ERP Portal. She guided participants through the process of institution registration, proposal submission, and real-time monitoring of activities.  The session ensured that all participants were well-equipped with the digital tools needed for effective engagement in UBA programs.

Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Technical Coordinator, UBA NIT Srinagar, delivered a talk on the role of 3D Printing and Drone Technology in Agriculture. He explained how drone technology can transform precision farming by monitoring crop health, improving irrigation practices, and reducing manual labour. “3D printing holds great potential for producing affordable agricultural tools, prototypes, and spare parts, helping rural farmers access cost-effective and innovative solutions. Such cutting-edge technologies, when adapted to local needs, could revolutionize agriculture in regions like J&K,” Dr Dinesh said.

Er. Bashir Ahmad, Managing Director of JK Green Technologies, presented a detailed lecture on Solar Energy for Sustainable Development. He highlighted how renewable energy can be a game-changer for rural areas by providing affordable and clean power to households, schools, and small-scale industries. “Youth should explore solar entrepreneurship, pointing out that solar energy not only addresses energy challenges but can also serve as a sustainable livelihood opportunity,” he said.

Prof. Sami Ullah, Coordinator of the Department of Environmental Science, University of Kashmir, spoke on Plastic Pollution and Environment: Status, Risks, and Opportunities. His lecture raised awareness about the growing dangers of plastic waste to ecosystems and public health. At the same time, Prof. Sami Ullah also discussed innovative pathways for recycling and reuse. He focused on how rural communities can turn this challenge into an opportunity for entrepreneurship and collective well-being.

A formal vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. M.F. Wani, Member of UBA at NIT Srinagar. He extended his heartfelt gratitude to Ministry of Education, NCI IIT Delhi, and Director NIT Srinagar, Registrar, and administration of the Institute for their constant support. Prof. Wani also thanked the distinguished speakers, participating institutions, faculty members, and student volunteers for making the workshop a success. The session wrapped up with participant feedback, followed by the distribution of certificates and mementos by the dignitaries, marking a meaningful close to the daylong program.