On the auspicious occasion of Independence Day and with the objective of spreading the spirit of patriotism among the people, the National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit of Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, organized a special public awareness program on Friday under the “Har Ghar Tiranga, Ghar-Ghar Tiranga” campaign. The objective of the program was to further strengthen the spirit of patriotism, national pride, national unity, integrity, constitutional values, and civic responsibility among the university’s students, teachers, staff, and citizens of the surrounding rural areas. Through the program, students and local residents were conveyed the message that the National Flag is not merely a piece of cloth but a symbol of India’s freedom, sovereignty, national pride, sacrifice, unity, and integrity. Respect for the Tricolour should naturally reside in the heart of every Indian citizen, and maintaining its dignity and honour is a national responsibility of us all. Special Public Awareness Campaign Conducted in Kitadih Village As an important part of the program, NSS volunteers and university representatives conducted a special public awareness campaign in Kitadih village. During the campaign, they interacted with villagers and provided detailed information about the objectives of the “Har Ghar Tiranga, Ghar-Ghar Tiranga” campaign and the significance of the National Flag. NSS volunteers explained to the villagers that the Tricolour represents the spirit of unity in diversity. Despite India’s rich cultural, linguistic, and social diversity, maintaining the unity and integrity of the nation is the responsibility of every citizen. Villagers were encouraged to respectfully hoist the Tricolour at their homes and motivate others in their community to do the same. During their interaction with the villagers, the students also spread awareness about national interest, social welfare, cleanliness, social harmony, constitutional duties, and responsible citizenship. The initiative further strengthened social participation and public awareness while building a stronger connection between the university and the rural community. Dr. Shivchandra Jha Emphasizes the Role of Youth in Nation-Building On the occasion, Dr. Shivchandra Jha, Head of the Department of Political Science and NSS Programme Officer, said that the “Har Ghar Tiranga, Ghar-Ghar Tiranga” campaign provides every citizen with an opportunity to express their love, respect, and responsibility towards the nation. The Tricolour keeps alive the memory of the struggle, sacrifice, and dedication of India’s freedom fighters. He said that the spirit of patriotism among students and youth should not remain confined to a particular day but should become an integral part of their character, conduct, thoughts, and social behaviour. As responsible citizens, we must respect the Constitution, fulfil our duties, and strengthen peace, harmony, and brotherhood in society. Dr. Jha reiterated that the future of the country rests in the hands of its youth. If young people channel their energy, talent, knowledge, and technological skills in a positive direction, they can make a significant contribution towards making India a developed and self-reliant nation. He called upon students to understand their social responsibilities alongside education and work in the national interest with the spirit of “Nation First.” He further stated that respecting the Tricolour is not limited merely to hoisting it. True respect for the National Flag means respecting the Constitution and democratic institutions, protecting national unity, promoting social harmony, and contributing honestly to the development of the nation. Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana Describes the Tricolour as a Symbol of National Pride Addressing the program, Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana said that the Tricolour is a symbol of India’s national identity and pride. Its three colours and the Ashoka Chakra continuously convey messages of sacrifice, courage, peace, progress, and constant movement. She said that such programs provide students with an opportunity to understand the history of India’s independence, the struggles of freedom fighters, and their responsibilities towards the nation. She appealed to students to become aware themselves and also spread awareness among their families, villages, and other members of society about the significance and respectful use of the National Flag. She stated that Sona Devi University is committed not only to education but also to creating social and national consciousness. Through NSS, students get an opportunity to connect with society, work for the community, and put the spirit of service into practice. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua Inspires Students Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua said that Independence Day is not merely an occasion for celebration but also an opportunity to remember the brave freedom fighters who sacrificed everything for the country’s independence and to draw inspiration from their ideals. He said that the “Har Ghar Tiranga, Ghar-Ghar Tiranga” campaign is an important means of strengthening national consciousness, responsibility, and patriotism among students. The university seeks to ensure that students, along with receiving higher education, become good citizens, responsible young people, and active participants in nation-building. The Vice-Chancellor stated that the role of youth in the country’s development is extremely important in the present era. Young people can use their talents to advance India in fields including science, technology, education, research, entrepreneurship, agriculture, industry, and social development. He urged students to make discipline, ethics, honesty, social sensitivity, and patriotism an integral part of their lives along with knowledge and skills. Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh Gives Message to Work in the National Interest Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh, while inspiring the students and the university community, said that the Tricolour is a symbol of pride, respect, and national unity for every Indian. He stated that independence was achieved after the struggles and sacrifices of numerous great freedom fighters. Therefore, protecting the freedom of the nation and contributing to its progress is the responsibility of every citizen. He said that the youth of the country should not limit themselves to building only their personal future but should also ensure their contribution towards building the future of society and the nation. The true purpose of education is fulfilled only when its benefits reach not only the individual but also society and the nation. Shri Singh said that students should pledge to work with honesty, hard work, and dedication in their respective fields and

The fourth Induction-cum-Orientation Programme of Sona Devi University was held on August 13, 2026, at the university’s campus in Kitadih, Ghatsila. The newly enrolled students displayed great enthusiasm and excitement throughout the programme. A special feature of the event was that the orientation programme was organised for the first time at the university’s Kitadih campus in the Ghatsila subdivision. K. Ravi Kumar, Chief Electoral Officer of Jharkhand, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Addressing the students, he advised them to make constructive and responsible use of mobile phones. “Your life is in your own hands,” he said, emphasising the importance of time management in achieving success. He said that success can be achieved only through hard work, dedication and perseverance. He also advised students to choose their language according to the subject and urged parents to focus on the positive development of their children and provide them with proper guidance. On the occasion, Sona Devi University Chancellor Prabhakar Singh welcomed all the distinguished guests and expressed his heartfelt gratitude for their presence and encouragement. Addressing the students, he highlighted several important aspects of character building and quoted various inspirational thoughts to underline the importance of values and integrity. He said that the university aims to develop its campus into a world-class institution so that its students can keep pace with the industry. “Knowledge is not something that remains confined to the pages of books and becomes silent; knowledge is that which transforms into the fire of ideas and creates innovation,” he said. The Chancellor advised students to expand the boundaries of their thinking and develop a problem-solving mindset. He said that students should not limit themselves to becoming job seekers. Instead, they should undertake meaningful work that benefits society, aligns with their interests and can also become a source of livelihood. In doing so, they can become job creators rather than job seekers. He called upon the students to bring a revolutionary change in their thinking and said that young people who make technology their servant and use it wisely will lead the world in the future. He urged students to work towards developing an independent identity and stressed the importance of ethics, honesty and a strong sense of duty in all their endeavours. From the historic land of Ghatsila, known for its brave and inspiring legacy, Chancellor Prabhakar Singh called upon the youth to permanently abandon negativity, despair and shortcuts. He urged them to combine their immense energy, creativity and technological knowledge to make a historic contribution towards building a prosperous Jharkhand and a strong, self-reliant and innovative India. Vice-Chancellor of Sona Devi University, Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, welcomed all the distinguished guests attending the Induction Programme. While extending his gratitude to the parents and students, he said that such programmes inspire students and provide newly enrolled students with an opportunity to become familiar with the university campus and its academic environment. He particularly emphasised that the real strength of any institution lies in its ideas and its mentors. Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana presented the university’s annual report. She said that the university has signed MoUs with several leading technical educational institutions across the country to facilitate internship opportunities for students. She highlighted that Sona Devi University is the first university in Jharkhand to sign an MoU with Intel for Artificial Intelligence. The university has also launched its School of AI and Computing, further strengthening its academic focus on emerging technologies. She added that the university has established strong academic partnerships with institutions such as NIT Jamshedpur. Students at Sona Devi University come not only from Jharkhand but also from West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and other parts of the country. “This diversity is not merely a statistic; it is our strength,” she said, adding that students would learn from one another’s cultures and perspectives as much as they learn from their textbooks. The Registrar urged students to attend classes regularly, maintain the required attendance and follow academic discipline and etiquette. She also highlighted the facilities available on campus, including a well-equipped library, modern laboratories, a career and placement cell, counselling and mentorship support, as well as various clubs and societies where students can explore interests beyond academics. Several distinguished guests also encouraged the students and extended their best wishes for their bright futures. Ghatsila MLA Somesh Chandra Soren advised students to focus on building their future. He said that merely taking admission does not determine one’s future; regular attendance in classes and commitment to studies play a crucial role. Encouraging the students, he said that having himself been an engineering student, he understands their aspirations and concerns well. He recalled that his late father, Ramdas Soren, had a dream of making Ghatsila a centre of education and said he would make every possible effort to fulfil that vision. Baharagora MLA Sameer Mohanty won the hearts of those present with his simplicity and warmth. He said that learning continues throughout life. He also emphasised that studying in one’s mother tongue can enhance students’ learning and achievements. Drawing inspiration from five teachings of Swami Vivekananda, he encouraged students to work with patience and curiosity. He spoke about the need for education to evolve with changing times and stressed the importance of originality. Former Baharagora MLA Kunal Sarangi, while motivating the students, said that admission to a university marks a new beginning in a student’s life. Life often teaches people new lessons, he said, adding that technology is changing rapidly and that the environment in which students learn makes a significant difference. Thanking Sona Devi University for promoting education in a region like Ghatsila, he said that establishing a university in the area was a noble initiative. He urged students to move beyond their comfort zones and continuously upgrade themselves according to the changing needs of the market. Several eminent personalities from the region attended the programme. Prof. Miteshwar, Pirinit Shukla, several educationists and teachers, and Shaurya Chakra awardee Captain Javed also graced the occasion. Block Pramukh

A special voter awareness programme on SIR (Special Intensive Revision) was organized by officials of the Election Commission/Election Branch among students at the Swami Vivekananda Auditorium of Sona Devi University, Ghatsila. The objective of the programme was to create awareness among students about the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, the process of adding names to the voter list, and the importance of the right to vote. During the programme, Election Officer Ms. Priyanka Kumari elaborated on the objectives and significance of SIR. She addressed various misconceptions and queries of the students regarding SIR and provided detailed information about the process of voter registration, required documents, and prescribed procedures. She emphasized that aware and responsible voters play a vital role in strengthening democracy. Officials of the Election Branch, Mr. Prashant Kumar Mishra, Ms. Komal Rani, and Mr. Deepak Kumar Paswan, provided students with practical training on filling out online applications for adding names to the voter list. They also explained common problems encountered while filling out the online form and provided simple solutions. Individual issues faced by the students were addressed and resolved on the spot. BLOs Mr. Sukul Mardi and Ms. Namita Das from the Election Commission were also present on the occasion. They provided students with relevant information regarding local-level procedures related to the electoral roll and other necessary details. On the occasion, Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana said that the registration of every eligible citizen in the electoral roll and active participation in the voting process are essential for strengthening democracy. She encouraged students not only to become aware of their voting rights but also to motivate their family members and people in society to register their names in the electoral roll. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua said that the university is not limited to providing academic knowledge to students but is also committed to developing them into responsible and aware citizens. He stated that election awareness programmes play an important role in developing students’ understanding of democratic values, constitutional rights, and civic responsibilities. Chancellor Mr. Prabhakar Singh, while motivating the students, said that the youth are the greatest strength of the country’s democratic future. Every eligible student should understand the importance of the right to vote and ensure that their name is included in the electoral roll, while also encouraging others to do the same. He called upon the students to participate actively and responsibly in the democratic process. At the conclusion of the programme, Dr. Kanchan Sinha, Head of the Faculty of Social Sciences, expressed her gratitude and thanks to the officials of the Election Commission, the university administration, faculty members, and all the students. She said that such awareness programmes are extremely useful in making students conscious of their constitutional rights and civic responsibilities. Faculty members, staff, and a large number of students were present at the programme. The programme concluded with a pledge to become aware, responsible, and active voters.

Ranchi, July 24, 2026: Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, Vice Chancellor of Sona Devi University, was honoured with the Dainik Bhaskar Education Excellence Award 2026 at a prestigious ceremony held in Ranchi today. The event was graced by Hon’ble Finance Minister Shri Radhakrishna Kishore and Hon’ble Rural Development Minister Smt. Deepika Singh Pandey as the chief guests. A total of 19 representatives from universities and educational institutions across Jharkhand were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the field of education. Located in Ghatsila, in East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand, Sona Devi University has been playing a significant role in providing quality higher education to students from rural and tribal communities. The university is committed to ensuring the holistic development of its students, empowering them to become responsible citizens and contribute meaningfully to the nation. Within just three years of its establishment, Sona Devi University has earned a distinct identity and growing popularity in the region due to its academic excellence and student-centric approach. At present, the university comprises 13 schools offering more than 60 academic programmes across a wide range of disciplines, reflecting its commitment to providing diverse and quality educational opportunities.

A fire safety awareness programme was organized today at the Vivekananda Auditorium of Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, to educate students on fire prevention and emergency response. The programme was attended by the Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, the Registrar, Dr. Nit Nayana, along with faculty members and students. The resource person for the session, Mr. Ramashish Ram, Fire Officer, Ghatsila and a recipient of the President’s Award, informed the gathering that, under the directions of the Deputy Commissioner of the district, awareness programmes are being conducted across educational institutions and other important establishments to educate people about the causes of fire accidents and preventive measures. Mr. Ram explained that fire accidents can occur due to several reasons and are broadly classified into Class A, Class B, and Class C fires. He elaborated that fires may result from ordinary combustible materials, oil, gas, and electrical short circuits, with electrical fires being particularly hazardous. He emphasized that fire incidents can occur anywhere—including crowded buildings, vehicles, hospitals, and educational institutions—making constant vigilance essential. He advised that buildings should be equipped with smoke detectors, flame detectors, and fire detection systems to ensure early warning and timely response. Referring to several recent fire incidents, he stressed the importance of preparedness and informed students that, as per the Government of Jharkhand’s guidelines, installation of fire safety systems is mandatory in all educational institutions and multi-storey buildings. Mr. Ram also highlighted the importance of understanding the sequence and timing of events during a fire emergency for effective response and investigation. He discussed the functioning of automatic locking systems in vehicles during fire incidents and explained the various causes of fire along with practical preventive measures. Demonstrating the correct use of fire extinguishers, he advised students to maintain a safe distance from the flames and always consider the direction of the wind while operating firefighting equipment. Encouraging students to remain alert and responsible, Mr. Ram said that fire safety is a shared responsibility and urged them to protect not only themselves but also those around them. He further noted that fires do not occur suddenly without cause and pointed out that even discarded broken mirrors can trigger fires under certain conditions if left carelessly in open areas. Concluding the session, he informed the participants that in the event of a fire or any emergency, they should immediately dial the toll-free emergency number 112 to report the incident and seek prompt assistance.

A New Chapter of Collaboration in Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Skill Development Ghatsila, East Singhbhum (Jharkhand), July 18, 2026 A landmark achievement was recorded today in Jharkhand’s higher education landscape as the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jamshedpur, and Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This strategic partnership marks a significant and long-term initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration in the fields of education, research, innovation, industry-academia engagement, and skill development. The MoU has been formulated in alignment with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, with the primary goal of providing students, research scholars, and faculty members with enhanced opportunities for quality education, advanced research, innovation, and skill-based training. The collaboration will focus on developing industry-ready human resources, fostering a robust research culture, and promoting employment-oriented education. The National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jamshedpur, an Institution of National Importance under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, is renowned for its academic excellence in engineering, science, management, and research. Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, established under an Act of the Government of Jharkhand and recognized under Section 2(f) of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Act, 1956, is a leading multidisciplinary university offering more than 66 academic programmes across 13 schools. Under the terms of the MoU, both institutions will jointly undertake research projects, Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs), national and international conferences, workshops, seminars, training and certification programmes, corporate training initiatives, student and faculty exchange programmes, summer internships, industrial visits, placement activities, academic projects, and programmes related to digital and emerging technologies. Special emphasis will also be placed on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), innovation, and quality enhancement initiatives. The agreement will initially remain in force for three years and may be extended in the future with the mutual consent of both institutions. Through this collaboration, students will gain access to guidance from national-level experts, advanced research laboratories, industry-oriented training, and enhanced career opportunities. On this occasion, Mrs. Archana Singh, Assistant Registrar of Sona Devi University, described the MoU as a matter of immense pride and a significant milestone for the university. She stated that this collaboration would connect students, faculty members, and researchers with national-level academic resources, advanced research facilities, and industry-oriented training, thereby accelerating quality education, innovation, and administrative excellence within the university. Dr. Nit Nayana, Registrar of Sona Devi University, remarked that the MoU represents a historic milestone in the university’s academic journey. He emphasized that the partnership with a prestigious Institution of National Importance like NIT Jamshedpur would provide students, research scholars, and faculty members with new opportunities in quality education, research, innovation, and technical training while strengthening the university’s presence at the national level. Mrs. Archana Singh further observed that universities today have a responsibility that extends beyond imparting education. They must actively contribute to societal and national development through innovation, research, and skill development. She expressed confidence that this partnership would promote collaborative research, technological advancement, industry-academia integration, and globally relevant academic initiatives. In his inspiring address, Mr. Prabhakar Singh, Chancellor of Sona Devi University, described the MoU as a historic achievement for the higher education sector in Jharkhand. He stated that the agreement signifies not merely collaboration between two institutions but the beginning of a new era in education, research, innovation, and skill development. He expressed confidence that the partnership would provide students with world-class educational and research opportunities and contribute significantly toward realizing the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.” The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Prof. (Dr.) Gautam Sutradhar, Director of NIT Jamshedpur; Mr. Prabhakar Singh, Chancellor of Sona Devi University; Dr. Nit Nayana, Registrar; Mrs. Archana Singh, Assistant Registrar; along with senior officials and representatives from both institutions. At the conclusion of the programme, both institutions expressed confidence that this MoU would serve as the foundation for a long-term and outcome-oriented partnership in education, research, innovation, skill development, and industry-academia collaboration, opening new avenues of opportunity for students across Jharkhand and the country.

Anti-drug awareness campaign conducted in Kitadih village during Drug-Free India Week at Sona Devi University. During the observance of Drug-Free India Week, Sona Devi University organized an anti-drug awareness campaign in Kitadih village. Villagers were educated about the harmful effects of substance abuse and encouraged to stay away from addictive substances. Those affected by addiction were also made aware of preventive measures and ways to seek support. As part of the campaign, volunteers visited homes in Kitadih village and informed women about the adverse effects of substance abuse. They were encouraged to motivate their family members to avoid addictive substances. Men in the village were also sensitized about the importance of staying away from drugs and alcohol. An awareness rally was organized under the leadership of the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua. Participants carried placards displaying anti-drug slogans. The rally included the Registrar, Dr. Nit Nayana, assistant professors, staff members, and students of the university. The participants also visited Upgraded Middle School, Kitadih, where schoolchildren were advised to adopt a healthy lifestyle, maintain a balanced diet, and participate in sports according to their interests. The students were also informed about the harmful effects of substance abuse. On this occasion, a seminar was organized at the Vivekananda Auditorium of Sona Devi University. Dr. Sujit Kumar, Assistant Professor in the Department of Sanskrit, spoke in detail about narcotic substances and explained how substance abuse adversely affects people’s lives. He also discussed various ways to prevent addiction and avoid the use of intoxicants. Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana stated that people suffering from addiction should be supported and helped whenever possible. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua emphasized the need to implement such awareness programs at the grassroots level. He stressed the importance of educating adolescents so that they can protect themselves from substance abuse. Mr. Pingua said that collective efforts can help control the use of intoxicating substances. At the end of the program, all participants took a pledge to stay away from drugs and promote a drug-free society.