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.

On the occasion of the International Day of Yoga, a Yoga practice session was organized on June 21 under the “Yoga Sangam” initiative at the Vivekananda Auditorium of Sona Devi University, Ghatshila. The program was conducted under the guidance of the university’s yoga instructor, Komal Sinha. Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana, along with several assistant professors and staff members, actively participated in the yoga session. In recognition of its active participation in the event, Sona Devi University was awarded a certificate by Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State, Ministry of AYUSH and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. On this year’s International Day of Yoga, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a yoga session in Kolkata. Across the country, people participated in yoga activities in large numbers at educational institutions, government offices, and various organizations. Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to achieve the vision of a Healthy India, people throughout the country have increasingly adopted yoga practices as part of their daily lives. A notable aspect of Sona Devi University is that it also operates a School of Yoga and Naturopathy, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to promoting holistic health, wellness, and traditional systems of knowledge.

To mark the completion of three years of Sona Devi University, a special program was organized on Saturday, May 30, at the Vivekananda Auditorium of the university. Addressing the gathering, Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh said that the university’s three-year journey had reached a significant milestone, though there was still a long way to go. He remarked that the journey had not been easy and that it had only just begun. Sharing the university’s future plans, Shri Singh stated that a comprehensive five-year roadmap has been prepared. Construction work on the university’s administrative building and hostels will begin soon, and the sports grounds will gradually take shape in their intended form. He also expressed optimism about receiving recognition from the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) in the near future and announced plans to introduce paramedical courses. He noted that the Artificial Intelligence and Computing programs launched this year would prove to be a milestone for the university. Shri Singh emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating that any initiative undertaken with a collective spirit has a much greater chance of success. He advised all university officials and staff members to work together with a strong team spirit and implement well-planned strategies. Explaining the true meaning of success to students, he said that merely obtaining high marks or earning a degree does not define success. A truly successful person is one who makes the best contribution in their field and plays a meaningful role in the nation’s development. He further encouraged students by saying that the effective utilization of available resources is more important than the availability of resources themselves. The program commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and a Ganesh Vandana. Students Lakshmi Murmu, Mausami Mahato, and Rumi Das presented a graceful dance performance based on Ganesh Vandana. Assistant Registrar Archana Singh spoke about the university’s mission, stating that the institution aims not only to provide quality education but also to ensure the holistic development of its students. Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana highlighted the achievements of the university over the past three years. She informed the audience that thirteen schools have been established within the university. To promote technical education, the university has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with several organizations, including Intel. Discussions are also underway to finalize MoUs with four additional institutions, including NIT. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua outlined the university’s future vision, emphasizing that any higher educational institution can progress only through strong research activities, which form the basis of its reputation and recognition. He encouraged everyone to give their best performance and announced that B.Ed., D.El.Ed., and LL.M. programs would be introduced soon. He also stated that SDU would develop and implement plans to create employment opportunities and raise awareness among people in the region. The event concluded with a rendition of the National Song and the National Anthem presented by Dr. Sangeeta Choudhury, Head of the Department of Music.

The eight-day environmental awareness program organized at Sona Devi University on the occasion of World Environment Day concluded today on its eighth and final day in a grand, inspiring, and dignified atmosphere. The program was not limited to being a formal event; rather, it emerged as a comprehensive public awareness campaign focusing on environmental conservation, sustainable development, social responsibility, and youth participation. The primary objective of the program was to cultivate environmental sensitivity among students, help them understand environmental challenges, and strengthen the spirit of conservation at a practical level. The closing ceremony began traditionally with the lighting of the lamp. The ceremonial lamp lighting symbolized not only the formal inauguration of the event but also collective commitment toward knowledge, awareness, responsibility, and environmental protection. The event was effectively and gracefully conducted by Ms. Anusua Roy, Head of the Department of English, whose coordination and anchoring kept the program organized and vibrant throughout. During the eight-day program organized by the university, several academic, cultural, and awareness-based activities were conducted. These included yoga sessions, poster and slogan writing competitions, environmental quizzes, awareness campaigns, interactive discussions, and creative activities. The fundamental aim of these events was not merely to provide theoretical knowledge to students but also to make them sensitive toward environmental issues and inspire them to actively contribute toward solutions. During the closing ceremony, students who had demonstrated outstanding performance in various competitions and activities were honored with certificates by the Honorable Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua and Mr. Krishnendu Dutta, Head of the Department of Mathematics. This recognition was not merely a formal acknowledgment of achievements but a public appreciation of the students’ efforts, creative thinking, and commitment toward environmental responsibility. The joy, confidence, and renewed inspiration visible on the faces of the students further energized the atmosphere of the ceremony. On this occasion, Ms. Princi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Economics, expressed her views on environmental conservation. She stated that environmental crisis today is no longer only a scientific or natural issue but has become a serious concern linked to social, economic, and global development. She emphasized that uncontrolled industrialization, excessive exploitation of natural resources, increasing pollution, and climate change are adversely affecting the future of coming generations. Therefore, environmental protection should not remain limited to government schemes but must evolve into a social movement. She also encouraged students to adopt water conservation, energy-saving practices, and environmentally friendly lifestyles. Monali Mahanta, a student of the Department of Agricultural Science, also shared her thoughts and stated that environmental conservation is one of the greatest necessities of the present time. She highlighted that the relationship between nature and human life is based on mutual dependence, and any imbalance in nature directly impacts human health, agriculture, water resources, and social life. She appealed to the youth to actively participate in tree plantation, cleanliness drives, plastic-free lifestyles, and the conservation of natural resources. Her words strengthened the spirit of positivity and responsibility among the students. In his presidential address, the university’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua stated that environmental conservation is not a subject confined to a single day or event but a continuous process and moral responsibility of life. He said that the entire world is currently facing serious challenges such as climate change, global warming, deforestation, and threats to biodiversity. In such circumstances, the role of universities and educational institutions cannot remain limited to imparting knowledge alone; they must also become centers for developing social awareness and environmental leadership. He inspired students by stating that the true purpose of education is not merely obtaining degrees but becoming responsible citizens toward society and nature. He added that if the younger generation moves forward with a commitment to environmental protection, widespread transformation in society is possible. He urged every student to plant at least one tree, conserve water, and incorporate environmental responsibilities into their daily lives. The Chancellor of the university, Mr. Prabhakar Singh, in his motivational address, said that nature is the foundation of human civilization and its protection is the moral and social responsibility of every individual. He emphasized that modern development can only be considered meaningful when it progresses alongside environmental balance and the protection of natural resources. He motivated students by stating that the youth are the greatest force of transformation, and through their awareness and active participation, the campaign for environmental protection can become a true people’s movement. The program concluded with a soulful presentation of the National Song and the National Anthem by Ms. Sangeeta Chaudhary, Head of the Department of Music. Her melodious performance filled the ceremony with patriotism, cultural dignity, and emotional unity, while all those present collectively reaffirmed their commitment toward the nation and environmental conservation. In the end, the university family appreciated the dedicated efforts, effective coordination, and capable guidance of Ms. Anusua Roy, Head of the Department of English, for the successful organization of the event. Under her leadership and cooperation, the eight-day World Environment Day program concluded successfully. This event emerged not merely as a program but as a powerful example of the university’s commitment toward environmental awareness, social responsibility, and sustainable development.