Chandigarh, 24 March: Continuing its commitment to environmental awareness and scientific capacity building, Mehr Chand Mahajan DAV College for Women organised the third national workshop on Environmental Monitoring. The two-day skill-oriented workshop on ‘Environmental Pollutant Detection and Remediation’ was conducted under the aegis of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) and sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology and Renewable Energy (DST-RE), Chandigarh Administration. The workshop aimed to enhance students’ competencies in environmental analysis and promote sustainable practices.
The workshop was inaugurated by Chief Guest Prof. Rajat Sandhir, Department of Biochemistry, Panjab University, Chandigarh. During the inaugural session, faculty members, guests, and students took a pledge to practice proper waste segregation by separating different types of waste prior to disposal, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to sustainable practices. On the occasion, a Lab Manual on Environmental Pollutant Detection and Remediation was also released. The manual is designed to serve as a practical guide for students and researchers, offering insights into techniques for pollutant identification and effective remediation strategies.
In his address, Prof. Rajat Sandhir highlighted the alarming pollution scenario and stressed the urgent need to tackle environmental challenges, particularly the rising impact of pollution on public health in the Tricity region. He also drew attention to the deteriorating Air Quality Index (AQI) and its serious implications for human well-being. The workshop featured keynote address by Prof. Naveen Gupta, Chairperson, Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, on ‘Environmental Monitoring for a Sustainable Future’. He underscored the importance of continuous environmental assessment, monitoring of potable and sewage water quality, and the use of advanced techniques in environmental analysis. He also highlighted pressing issues related to solid waste management and environmental degradation.
The workshop featured a series of enriching sessions over two days, with three technical sessions conducted each day. Resource person Dr. Navneet Batra, Head, Department of Biotechnology, GGDSD College, Chandigarh, emphasised the importance of mastering fundamental laboratory skills. He elaborated on the correct handling of laboratory equipment, safe preparation and storage of chemicals, and the need for precision in analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
Officiating Principal Ms. Neena Sharma reiterated the institution’s dedication to promoting environmental consciousness and scientific learning through such impactful initiatives. She encouraged participants to actively engage with experts and make the most of such academic platforms.