Srinagar, Aug 20: The National Institute of Technology Srinagar (NIT Srinagar), one of the Regional Coordinating Institutes (RCI) of Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), organized One-Day Orientation Workshop for Participating Institutions of UT Jammu and Kashmir.
The program was inaugurated by Prof. M.F. Wani, Regional Coordinator of RCI NIT Srinagar. Prof. Wani introduced the participants to the overarching goals of the UBA program and outlined the action plan for implementing UBA activities in the adopted villages.
A progress report detailing the achievements of RCI NIT Srinagar was also presented, serving as a source of inspiration and encouragement for all participants.
Prof. Ravinder Nath, Director of NIT Srinagar, served as the Chief Guest for the inaugural ceremony. In his key speech, he emphasized the pivotal role that technical institutes play in the holistic development of rural areas.
Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. A Ravinder Nath stressed the importance of leveraging technology and innovation to uplift rural communities, improving their quality of life and ensuring sustainable progress.
He also highlighted the need for collaborative efforts between academic institutions and local communities to address the unique challenges faced by rural populations. He called on students and faculty to actively engage with rural development initiatives, ensuring that the benefits of education and research reach the grassroots level.
Prof. Atikur Rehman, Registrar of NIT Srinagar, graced the inaugural ceremony of UBA workshop as the Guest of Honour. In his address, Prof. Rehman outlined UBA’s mission and vision, emphasizing its crucial role in connecting rural communities with educational institutions.
He reflected on the program’s origins, the challenges faced in its early years, and the perseverance that led to its current success. Prof. Rehman credited this achievement to the steadfast support and guidance of Prof. M. F. Wani, acknowledging his significant contribution to the success of UBA at NIT Srinagar.
Dr. Harkirat Singh, Co-Coordinator of UBA at NIT Srinagar, delivered an insightful lecture on Renewable Energy and Rural Energy Systems, highlighting their importance for sustainable development in rural areas.
Dr. P. K. Singh, Director of UBA at IIT Delhi, also addressed the gathering in an online session, discussing the crucial role of participating institutes in the UBA program and encouraging active involvement in fostering rural development.
Prof. M. A. Shah, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir also contributed to the event with a lecture on value-added products derived from invasive plant species.
He emphasized how these products can enhance the livelihoods of marginalized communities in the Indian Himalayas, turning environmental challenges into economic opportunities.
Ms. Manavee Ajit Singh, Senior Project Scientist at UBA IIT Delhi, provided a live demonstration of the new ERP portal for UBA. She demonstrated to the participants how to register and add new Participating Institutions and submit proposals on the portal, ensuring that everyone was equipped to use this essential tool effectively.
