CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI) has organised ‘JIGYASA’ a Student-Scientist Connect Residential Programme at CSIR-NEERI on 3-7 February 2020. Dr. C D Mayee, Former Vice-Chancellor, Marathwada Agricultural University inaugurated the ‘JIGYASA’ programme on February 3 at 10.30 am in the NEERI Auditorium. Dr. J S Pandey, Chief Scientist & Head, Climate Change and Skilling Division, Mr. Prakash Kumbhare, Sr. Principal Scientist, CSIR-NEERI and Dr. Pradeep Salve, Principal Scientist, CSIR-NEERI were also present on this occasion.
While addressing the participating students and teachers, Dr. Mayee cited some interesting examples which had given rise to significant inventions. He mentioned that the efficacy of the copper sulphate was accidentally discovered against the downy mildew of grapes. He also narrated the real story behind penicillin, other antibiotics and anti-malarial drug-quinine. He said that curiosity is the mother of invention.
In his welcome address, Dr. J S Pandey, Chief Scientist Head, Climate Change and Skilling Division said that a concerted effort is required to strengthen the primary education system in India. Quality education plays an important role in human resource development, he added. He advised the students to always respect the environment. Prakash Kumbhare briefed about the ‘Jigyasa’ programme and Dr. Pradeep Salve proposed the vote of thanks. Ms. Samrudhhi conducted the proceedings. On first day, Dr. G K Khadse, Principal Scientist, CSIR-NEERI enlightened the students on water quality research including hands-on experiments on water analysis.
A session on ‘water audit’ was conducted by Nishant Nikam, Prajwal Shantalwar, Ravindra Mohite and Bhagyashree Korde to enable the students to carry out the similar activity at their schools for water conservation.
220 students and 30 teachers from 30 schools located in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, including Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, Corporation Schools, Govt. Schools, Zilla Parishad Schools etc. are participating in this programme.
During this five-day programme, the students and teachers would visit the Laboratories and Facilities of the Institute for hands-on science experiments on air, water and soil analysis, water purification techniques, treatment and management of municipal solid wastes, treatment, recycle and reuse of wastewater, how to restore degraded lands, importance of various plants including bamboo for livelihood, etc.