15 govt schools equipped with labs benefiting nearly 20,000 students
Srinagar : The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar served as the Regional Coordinating Institution (RCI) for the Kashmir Region during the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) Review Meeting held at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi.
The meeting gathered RCIs from across India to assess the progress of rural development initiatives and to discuss future implementation strategies under the Ministry of Education’s flagship program. Key officials from the Ministry of Education, including Armstrong Pame and Vineet Joshi, participated in the meeting, while V K Vijay provided a national overview of UBA. Dr Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, the Technical Coordinator for the RCI Kashmir Region, presented a consolidated report detailing significant initiatives from various premier institutions, including IIT Delhi and NIT Hamirpur. Notable interventions highlighted included river rejuvenation projects, rural student outreach programs, and technology-driven development efforts. Dr Rajendran reported that NIT Srinagar has established computer and science laboratories in 15 government schools, benefiting approximately 20,000 students. Additionally, skill development initiatives, such as tailoring training centers and SEG-based projects like low-cost heating systems and biogas units, are being implemented to enhance rural livelihoods. The meeting acknowledged contributions from Prof Shami Lone, who presented a five-year strategic plan for the region under UBA, and recognized Prof M F Wani for his longstanding involvement in the program. Vineet Joshi announced the extension of UBA, encouraging all higher education institutions to enroll, while Armstrong Pame emphasized the decentralization of UBA into six zones, granting enhanced autonomy to RCIs. Furthermore, Diksha Rajput noted the addition of 237 modules on SWAYAM and the introduction of a two-credit UBA course. NIT Srinagar’s Director, Prof Binod Kumar Kanaujia, and Registrar, Prof Atikur Rehman, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to rural development and community engagement. They expressed the intention to continue contributing to grassroots development through education, innovation, and outreach programs, focusing on addressing local challenges and strengthening rural communities with sustained institutional support.
