Prof. (Dr.) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, has been honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for his remarkable, long-standing, and research-oriented contributions to the field of Mining Engineering and Research. The award was presented to him on the occasion of the 5th International Conference on Safe & Sustainable Mining Technologies (IConSSMT)–2026 and Mining Expo’26. The international conference is being organised on 19–20 September 2026 at Valley Club, Tata Steel–Joda, Odisha. During the conference, The Indian Mining & Engineering Journal conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award upon Prof. (Dr.) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua for his “Remarkable Contributions to Mining Engineering Research.” The honour recognises his long-term research, technical contributions, and academic commitment to the field of Mining Engineering. Experts, academicians, researchers, technical professionals, and representatives from the mining industry from India and abroad are participating in this important international conference. The primary objective of the conference is to promote innovative technologies, research, and innovation towards safe, modern, technologically advanced, and sustainable mining. Various sessions of the conference are focusing on important issues related to mining technology, safety, sustainable development, modern research, technological innovation, and the environmental aspects of mining activities. Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana Extends Congratulations Dr. Nit Nayana, Registrar of Sona Devi University, extended her heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Prof. (Dr.) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua on receiving this prestigious honour. She said that the Vice-Chancellor receiving such recognition at an international-level platform is a matter of immense pride for the university. According to her, the achievement reflects his long-standing research, academic dedication, and significant contributions to the field of Mining Engineering. She further said that the Vice-Chancellor’s achievement is an inspiration for the university’s faculty members, researchers, and students. It will further encourage a culture of research and innovation at the university and motivate young researchers to pursue excellence in their respective fields. Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh: “Research and Innovation Will Gain a New Dimension” Shri Prabhakar Singh, Hon’ble Chancellor of Sona Devi University, congratulated Prof. (Dr.) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua on this significant achievement. He said that it is a matter of pride for any university when its Vice-Chancellor is recognised at national and international academic platforms for research and expertise. Shri Prabhakar Singh stated that the honour is not only a personal recognition of Prof. (Dr.) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua but also a proud moment for the entire teaching community, researchers, students, and the university family of Sona Devi University. He said that such recognitions create a positive environment for promoting excellence in research, innovation, and knowledge creation within the university. He further said that the university’s objective is to promote not only higher education but also quality research, innovation, skill development, and socially relevant knowledge. The recognition received by the Vice-Chancellor will further accelerate the university’s efforts towards research and academic development. The Chancellor also stated that continuous efforts would be made to expand and strengthen research and innovation at Sona Devi University. Special emphasis will be placed on encouraging research across various disciplines, providing researchers with a better academic environment, and increasing the university’s participation in national and international research platforms. He said that while strengthening the quality of research at the university, efforts would be made to promote research that can contribute to the development of society, industry, the environment, and the nation. He called upon the university’s faculty members and researchers to continuously move forward in the direction of new ideas, innovation, and research. University Family Celebrates the Vice-Chancellor’s Achievement The achievement of Prof. (Dr.) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua is being regarded as a significant milestone that will further strengthen the academic and research identity of Sona Devi University at both national and international levels. The recognition of his long-standing contributions to Mining Engineering and Research on the platform of an international conference is a special achievement for the university. The honour has generated a sense of enthusiasm among the faculty members, researchers, and students of Sona Devi University. The university family believes that the Vice-Chancellor’s achievement will inspire young researchers to work in their respective fields with dedication, continuity, and a commitment to excellence. The achievement is considered particularly significant in the university’s academic and research environment, as issues such as safe and sustainable mining, technological innovation, and environmental balance are of global importance today. Promoting research and knowledge creation in these areas is an important responsibility of higher education institutions. University Family Extends Best Wishes The entire Sona Devi University family extended its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua on receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award. The university family felicitated him for his continuous academic, research, and administrative contributions. The university family expressed the hope that under the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, Sona Devi University will continue to make progress in the fields of research, innovation, higher education, technological development, and academic excellence, while further strengthening its distinctive identity at both national and international levels.

Superintending Engineer of the Water Resources Department, Ravikant Chaudhary, attended the programme as Chief Guest and emphasized the importance of honesty and discipline in education Chancellor Prabhakar Singh paid tribute to engineers for their service and urged students to promote research and innovation in science and technology The 59th Engineers’ Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Vivekananda Auditorium of Sona Devi School of Engineering and Technology on Tuesday. The programme was attended by Ravikant Chaudhary, Superintending Engineer, Water Resources Department, Galudih, as the Chief Guest. He extended his greetings to all the engineers present on the occasion and guided the students on various aspects of education and professional life. Addressing the students, Ravikant Chaudhary said that honesty and discipline are extremely important in education. He advised students to maintain a balance between traditional knowledge and modern knowledge and apply both effectively in their studies and professional careers. Ajay Prajapati, Executive Engineer, Water Resources Department, Ghatsila, also addressed the gathering. He informed the students about the history of engineering education in India, explaining that it began with institutions such as Thomson College, now known as IIT Roorkee, followed by the establishment and growth of the IITs. Motivating the students, he said that the identity of any university is reflected in the achievements of its students. Therefore, students should work hard in the right direction and make full use of the opportunities available to them. Extending his wishes on Engineers’ Day, he emphasized that there is no substitute for hard work and encouraged students to maintain discipline and move forward in life. Engineers’ Day is celebrated in India every year on 15 September to commemorate the birth anniversary of the great Indian engineer and Bharat Ratna awardee Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. He was one of India’s most distinguished engineers and made significant contributions to the development and modernization of the country. The Vice-Chancellor of Sona Devi University, Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pinguwa, encouraged the students and shared that he himself had served the country as a scientist for several years. He recalled having the opportunity to visit and study a dam in Karnataka constructed by Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya. Dr. Pinguwa advised students to give special importance to practicality in their work and to apply their academic knowledge in real-life situations. The Chancellor of Sona Devi University, Shri Prabhakar Singh, paid tribute to all the engineers present at the Vivekananda Auditorium for their dedicated service. He urged students to promote research and innovation in science and education and said that their work should not remain confined merely to books. He encouraged them to develop technologies that can make people’s lives easier. Shri Prabhakar Singh further said that both teachers and engineers are engaged in the work of nation-building. Teachers build personalities, while engineers build the nation, and therefore both deserve respect and recognition. Pooja Tiwari, Head of the Department, Sona Devi School of Engineering and Technology, delivered the welcome address and acquainted the students with the contributions of Sir M. Visvesvaraya. She explained how technology has become an integral part of everyday life and how society is now highly dependent on engineering and technology. She advised students to use their judgment and carefully consider their interests and abilities while choosing an engineering branch. Assistant Registrar Archana Singh also spoke about the life and achievements of Sir M. Visvesvaraya and acquainted the students with his remarkable contribution to the nation. The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and concluded with the Vande Mataram and the National Anthem. On the occasion, students delivered several presentations related to their respective subjects through PowerPoint. Lakshmi Murmu, a B.Sc. Agriculture student, gave a presentation on the usefulness of drones in agriculture, explaining how traditional farming can be transformed into smart agriculture with the help of modern technology. Khushi, a Computer Science student, spoke on the theme of Engineers’ Day. Students of B.Sc. Biotechnology presented a paper on cloning in rats, while Shantanu, a B.Tech. Electrical Engineering student, presented a paper on starters. The programme concluded on an inspiring note, encouraging students to pursue engineering with discipline, practical knowledge, research and innovation and to contribute meaningfully to the development of the nation.

Two Students Qualify for Assistant Professor and Ph.D. Admission Ghatsila, East Singhbhum:It is a matter of immense pride and happiness for Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, that two meritorious students from the Departments of Political Science and History have achieved outstanding success in the UGC-NET examination, bringing laurels to the university. Aditya Kumar, a student of the Department of Political Science, secured 200 marks out of 300 in the UGC-NET examination and achieved an impressive 97.5 percentile score under the guidance and supervision of the Head of the Department, Dr. Shivchandra Jha. He has qualified for Assistant Professor and Ph.D. admission. Similarly, Aman Sharan, a student of the Department of History, secured 186 marks out of 300 and an outstanding 99.7 percentile score under the guidance and supervision of the Head of the Department, Dr. Kanchan Sinha. He has also qualified for Assistant Professor and Ph.D. admission. “Focus on Fundamental Concepts, Not Shortcuts” — Dr. Shiv Chandra Jha Congratulating both successful students, Dr. Shiv Chandra Jha, Head of the Department of Political Science, said that success in a national-level examination like UGC-NET requires students to first undertake an in-depth and systematic study of the UG and PG curricula. Along with this, it is essential to understand the fundamental concepts of all the units prescribed for UGC-NET and practise regularly. He emphasized that students should focus on the theories and fundamental concepts of their subjects rather than relying on shortcuts. Consistent study, discipline, and preparation in the right direction are the foundations of success. Dr. Jha said, “If a student keeps their goal at the centre and moves forward with consistency, dedication, and hard work, success cannot remain far away. Success is achieved not through shortcuts, but through continuous effort, the right strategy, and self-confidence.” He also encouraged both students to play an active role in the field of research after entering their Ph.D. programmes. He said that students should not limit themselves merely to obtaining a degree, but should work towards innovation, original research, creation of new knowledge, and bringing to light unexplored facts and hidden evidence related to society and history. “Students’ Hard Work Is the University’s Identity” — Dr. Kanchan Sinha Dr. Kanchan Sinha, Head of the Department of History, expressed happiness over the success of both students and said that qualifying for UGC-NET is the result of their hard work, discipline, and continuous study. She said that this achievement is not only a matter of pride for the two students but also for the entire Sona Devi University family. She encouraged students to have confidence in their abilities, prepare sincerely for competitive examinations, and continue progressing in the fields of higher education and research. “This Achievement Reflects the Success of the University’s Academic Environment” — Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana Dr. Nit Nayana, Registrar of the university, congratulated both students and said that their success in the prestigious national-level UGC-NET examination is a matter of great pride for the university. She stated that this achievement is the result not only of the students’ hard work but also of the guidance provided by their teachers and the university’s positive academic environment. She called upon other students to draw inspiration from the success of Aditya Kumar and Aman Sharan and prepare for their goals with seriousness, dedication, and commitment. “Students’ Success Is the University’s Real Achievement” — Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, Vice-Chancellor of the university, congratulated both students and extended his best wishes for their future. He said that the success of students is the real achievement of any university. He expressed pride in the success of both students in the UGC-NET examination and said that Sona Devi University will continue to encourage students towards quality education, higher studies, research, innovation, and competitive examinations. He wished both students a bright and successful future. “Every Goal Is Possible with Hard Work and Dedication” — Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh Shri Prabhakar Singh, Chancellor of the university, congratulated both successful students and said that their success in UGC-NET is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and determination. He said that this achievement would also serve as a source of inspiration for other students of the university. He said, “Students should set clear goals in life and work consistently towards achieving them. With proper guidance, discipline, and dedication, no goal is impossible.” Shri Singh further stated that the objective of Sona Devi University is not merely to provide degrees to students, but to connect them with knowledge, research, innovation, skills, and social responsibility and develop them into capable and responsible citizens. He also congratulated the Heads of both departments and the teachers for their guidance and support to the students. He said that such achievements play an important role in giving the university a new identity at the national level. Celebration Across the University Following the success of Aditya Kumar with a 97.5 percentile score and Aman Sharan with a 99.7 percentile score in the UGC-NET examination, an atmosphere of joy and celebration prevails among the teachers, students, and staff of Sona Devi University. The entire university family extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to both successful students for their bright future. The university expressed hope that they will continue to excel in the fields of higher education and research and bring greater recognition to Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, at the national and international levels.

Prabhakar Singh, Chancellor of Sona Devi University, Ghatshila, has expressed deep sorrow over the untimely demise of Jharkhand Education Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu. He described the minister’s death as a major loss to the state’s education system. Sudivya Kumar Sonu, Minister of Higher and Technical Education and Urban Development in the Jharkhand Government, passed away at Mercy Hospital in Giridih after suffering a heart attack. He was admitted to the hospital late at night after his health deteriorated, where he breathed his last. The news of the minister’s demise has cast a pall of mourning across Giridih and the entire state of Jharkhand.

Ghatsila, East Singhbhum, Jharkhand:On the occasion of Teachers’ Day, a grand and diverse cultural programme was organized by the students of Sona Devi University at the Swami Vivekananda Auditorium, Ghatshila. The primary objective of the programme was to express respect and gratitude towards teachers and to highlight the dignity and significance of the traditional Guru–Shishya relationship. The programme was attended by the University Chancellor, Shri Prabhakar Singh, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana, along with university faculty members, staff and a large number of students. Programme Begins with Lamp Lighting and Floral Tribute The programme was anchored by student Aman Kumar. It commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by floral tributes to the portrait of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the great educationist, philosopher and former President of India. The gathering remembered his invaluable contribution to education and nation-building. Cultural Performances Captivate the Audience The cultural programme began with a soulful Guru Vandana presented by students Manavi, Priyanka and Shweta. The devotional performance filled the auditorium with an atmosphere of reverence and respect for teachers. This was followed by a speech by Deepa, a student of the Department of Pharmacy, on the importance of teachers and their role in the lives of students. Student Mahi Karwa presented a melodious song in honour of teachers. Riya Kumari and Manisha Mahanti enthralled the audience with their graceful dance performance and received enthusiastic applause. Meanwhile, Manish Das, a student of the Department of Music, added a musical touch to the programme with his melodious singing performance. A group of students also presented a brief yet impactful introduction to the life, personality and contributions of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Through the presentation, the students recalled his philosophy of education and his contribution to nation-building. In addition, Ritik and Mahi Karwa delivered an attractive dance performance. Baleshwar Mandi, a student of the Department of Pharmacy, entertained the audience with her witty and humorous remarks, adding an enjoyable element to the programme. Drama Highlights the Warmth of the Guru–Shishya Relationship One of the major highlights of the programme was a theatrical presentation based on the Guru–Shishya relationship, performed by the students. Through the play, the students effectively portrayed the trust, guidance, discipline, affection and emotional bond between teachers and students. The performance encouraged the audience to reflect upon the true purpose of education and the important role played by teachers in shaping the lives of their students. Teachers Deliver Inspirational Messages to Students On the occasion, Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana stated that teachers are not merely providers of knowledge in the lives of students; they are also mentors, sources of inspiration and important contributors to the development of their students’ personalities. She urged students to make the most of their teachers’ experience and guidance to build a better future. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua extended Teachers’ Day greetings and said that the purpose of education is not merely to pass examinations or obtain degrees, but also to develop students’ character, personality, thinking abilities and leadership skills. He emphasized that teaching methods must continuously evolve in accordance with changing times and emerging challenges. He encouraged students to move forward with discipline, hard work, ethics and a positive attitude. Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh, while motivating the students, said that the ultimate purpose of education should be to work for the larger welfare of society. He stated that the university inspires students to move forward in accordance with the spirit of “Bahujan Hitaya, Bahujan Sukhaya”—the welfare and happiness of the many. He encouraged every student to set clear goals in life and make continuous efforts to achieve them. He advised students not to become arrogant after achieving success and not to lose hope in the face of failure. Life has its ups and downs, and therefore, students should continue moving forward with seriousness, patience, self-confidence and consistent effort. He further emphasized that along with academic success, the development of students’ character and personality is equally important. Programme Concludes with Vote of Thanks The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Laxmi Murmu, a student of the Department of Agricultural Science. She expressed gratitude to the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, teachers, staff and all the students for their valuable support in making the programme a success. The Teachers’ Day celebration provided students with an excellent platform to showcase their talent, creativity and artistic abilities. The programme not only expressed the students’ respect and gratitude towards their teachers but also conveyed important messages about the Guru–Shishya relationship, discipline, values, character building and commitment towards one’s goals in life. The programme concluded with an atmosphere of enthusiasm, joy and deep respect for the teachers.

• The TB-Free India Campaign will be carried out by higher educational institutions across the country.• The UGC has provided information to higher educational institutions across the country regarding the Chetna Series lecture on the theme “Creating Awareness for a TB-Free India.”• Students of Sona Devi University will join the TB-Free India Campaign.• Vice-Chancellor of Sona Devi University, Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, along with all faculty members and students, participated in the lecture organized by the UGC. Higher educational institutions across the country will undertake the TB-Free India Campaign. In this regard, the UGC today provided information to higher educational institutions across the country about the Chetna Series lecture on the theme “Creating Awareness for a TB-Free India.” At the Vivekananda Auditorium of Sona Devi University, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana, Controller of Examinations Mr. Mithilesh Singh, Deans of various faculties, Heads of Departments, faculty members, non-teaching staff, and students watched and listened to the lecture. Under the TB-Free India Campaign, all higher educational institutions will involve their faculty members, students, and non-teaching staff in the campaign and promote it extensively in order to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) from its roots. The UGC’s TB-Free India Campaign is a joint initiative to spread awareness about TB in higher educational institutions and work towards eliminating the disease. The objective of this campaign is to increase awareness about TB among young people and society through colleges and universities and to promote screening for the disease. During the lecture organized in this regard, Dr. Rajan explained TB infection and the disease. He also emphasized that testing is essential for identifying patients. He said that with proper care of infected persons, tuberculosis can be eradicated. He explained that TB is a bacterial infection that spreads through the air. Therefore, infected persons need to wear masks. TB patients are also advised to maintain a healthy immune system and consume a balanced, nutritious diet. The UGC has instructed educational institutions and students to register as Nikshay Mitras and adopt TB patients to support them. Dr. Rajan stated that educational institutions should visit nearby areas and create awareness among people about the symptoms of TB, how it spreads, preventive measures, and the people who are more vulnerable to infection. He also explained the ten symptoms of TB. The objective of this campaign is to channel the energy of young people and engage educational institutions in the effort to eradicate TB from the country. Dr. Rajan explained that interested students need to register as Nikshay Mitras. He also explained the assistance provided to infected patients, stating that nutritional support is provided under the Nikshay Poshan initiative along with financial assistance of ₹1,000. All relevant information is available on the TB Mukt Bharat App. Universities and colleges will involve students in the campaign by making them Nikshay Mitras and will also create awareness about TB prevention through social media. Youth ambassadors will be appointed as Nikshay Mitras, while NSS volunteers will also play an important role in creating awareness about the TB-Free India Campaign. People will also be encouraged through a pledge to join the fight against TB. Dr. Rajan said, “TB will lose, and the nation will win.”

Sona Devi University, JamshedpurDate: 22 August 2026 The Freshers’ Week Aarambh 2026 at Sona Devi University concluded with an enlightening session by Brother B.K. Kamal from Mount Abu, who guided students on ways to lead a stress-free and happy life and also conducted practical exercises with them. Brother B.K. Kamal has been inspiring people for the past 15 years to achieve better mental health and lead peaceful lives. During his interaction with the students, he shared valuable insights on dealing with challenges in life. He advised students to avoid overthinking and explained the relationship between the mind and the body, emphasizing that an unhealthy or negative state of mind can adversely affect the body. He urged students to protect their minds from negative thoughts and avoid dwelling on the past. He advised them to focus on one task at a time to reduce stress. Describing happiness as an inner strength, he encouraged students not to pay attention to unnecessary matters and to understand their emotions and feelings before responding to situations. Brother B.K. Kamal also advised students on improving concentration and avoiding mobile phone addiction. He explained the symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress and anger, and shared practical ways to manage and overcome them. He emphasized that strengthening the mind can help reduce stress and observed that excessive idle time can often lead to addictive behaviours. As part of the session, students were guided through a simple morning routine to help them remain stress-free. He stressed that paying attention to oneself is essential for a happy life. He also encouraged students to take short breaks during work and use those moments to bring their attention back to the present. The students were further taught how to practise gratitude meditation before going to bed. Brother B.K. Kamal emphasized that developing a sense of gratitude is essential for happiness and overall well-being. Brahma Kumari Sanju Behen from Kadma also addressed the students and said that everyone faces challenges in life. She emphasized that our perspective determines how we perceive and respond to those challenges.

Date: 20 August 2026 • Students participate in Zumba session on the third day of Sona Devi University Freshers’ Week 2026• Painting competition witnesses enthusiastic participation by students On the third day of the Freshers’ Week 2026 celebrations at Sona Devi University, newly enrolled students participated in a Zumba session. The students thoroughly enjoyed the activity. The Zumba coordinator briefed the students about its various health benefits and said that Zumba is an excellent option for maintaining physical fitness. It can be easily performed by everyone, irrespective of gender or age. Zumba helps in weight management, burns calories and keeps the entire body fit. It also improves blood circulation and helps reduce the risk of heart-related diseases. Regular Zumba practice enhances stamina and flexibility. It also helps reduce mental stress, anxiety and tension. Meanwhile, a painting competition was organized under the guidance of Suhas Kumar Hore, Assistant Professor, Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Department. Students participated in the competition with great enthusiasm. The participants were free to choose the theme of their paintings according to their preference. Some students formed groups to participate in the competition, while others chose to create their paintings individually. The participants showcased their creativity and natural artistic talent through their artworks. In the painting competition, the team comprising Papia, Manisha, Shahid and Ranjita secured first position. Amrita and Varsha, students of the first semester of BFA and B.Pharm, jointly secured second position. Manasi Hembrom, a first-semester student of History Honours, secured third position.

Date: 18 August 2026 The Freshers’ Week at Sona Devi University was inaugurated today. The week-long programme will provide newly enrolled students with information about the university, its academic environment, rules and regulations, and other important aspects related to university life. On the first day of the programme, renowned motivational speaker Chandreshwar Khan inspired the students and filled them with enthusiasm. Addressing the students, he said that mistakes made yesterday should not be repeated and that one should continuously strive to improve one’s work. He emphasised that internal motivation is essential for achieving excellence and sustained improvement. Mr. Chandreshwar advised students to use mobile phones wisely and encouraged them to continuously enhance their knowledge. He said that this requires a change in attitude and mindset. Motivating students to learn attentively in the classroom, he said that continuous learning is essential for growth and development. He further advised students to develop distinctive qualities in their lives and to set both short-term and long-term goals, while maintaining consistency in their efforts to achieve them. He stressed that strong willpower is necessary to remain consistent. Encouraging the students, Mr. Chandreshwar said that when a person acquires knowledge and undertakes any task with confidence and strong determination, the possibilities of growth and development increase significantly. At the programme held at the Vivekananda Auditorium of Sona Devi University, educationist and former Regional Director of IGNOU Dr. Saroj Mishra said that motivation is essential for studies and that university-level knowledge should be of a high standard. He stated that memory, understanding and analytical thinking are essential for learning any subject. Explaining an effective approach to studying, Dr. Mishra said, “Study in such a way that you are able to teach others.” On the occasion, Prabhakar Singh, Chancellor of Sona Devi University, said that happiness is essential for success in life. He added that honesty, hard work and humility are equally important for achieving success. Motivating the students, Mr. Singh urged them to respect God, their parents and their teachers. He said that those who take pride in their institution are more likely to succeed. He further observed that the younger generation carries a great responsibility on its shoulders. Mr. Singh emphasised that a sense of pride is essential for turning determination into achievement. Dr. Nit Nayana, Registrar of Sona Devi University, advised the students to maintain discipline by following the rules and regulations of the university. She also stressed that 100 percent attendance in classes is mandatory. Earlier, the students introduced themselves to one another and made efforts to develop mutual understanding and familiarity. They were also introduced to the faculty members of the university.

Ghatshila, August 15, 2026:The 80th Independence Day of the country was celebrated at SDU School of Pharmacy, Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, in a dignified, enthusiastic and patriotic atmosphere. The programme was attended by University Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana, Principal of SDU School of Pharmacy Shri Sudhanshu Shandilya, faculty members, non-teaching staff, and students of B.Pharm and D.Pharm. The entire campus reflected a strong spirit of patriotism, discipline, social responsibility and commitment towards the nation. This year, the Independence Day celebration was connected with pharmacy and public health and focused on the theme: “Women Empowerment for a Healthy Nation — Safe Medication, Better Health.” The Pharmacy Council of India, New Delhi, gives special importance to professional competence in pharmacy education and practice, medication safety and responsibility towards public health. In keeping with this spirit, the programme highlighted women’s health, women’s empowerment, the safe and rational use of medicines, and the role of pharmacy professionals in building a healthy society. On the occasion, Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh said that independence is not merely about political freedom; it also represents a continuous commitment to providing every citizen with equal opportunities, dignity, health and self-reliance. He said that empowering women through education, healthcare and opportunities to participate in decision-making is essential for building a strong, healthy and developed nation. He called upon the students to use their knowledge, talent and professional skills for nation-building and the welfare of society. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua said that universities are not merely centres of knowledge but also important foundations for developing responsible citizens and a sensitive society. He said that pharmacy students have an important responsibility to safeguard the health of society. Therefore, they must give the highest priority to safe medication practices, patient care and their professional responsibilities towards public health. He encouraged the students to make a positive contribution to national progress through their education and talent. Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana said that women’s empowerment and better health are deeply interconnected. She emphasized that safe and rational use of medicines, health awareness and access to quality healthcare for every section of society are the foundations of a healthy and empowered India. She encouraged students to connect their academic knowledge with social welfare and national service. Principal Shri Sudhanshu Shandilya said that Independence Day is a festival of pride, duty and resolve for every Indian. He noted that the field of pharmacy is no longer limited to the manufacture and distribution of medicines. Pharmacists now play a crucial role in disease prevention, medication safety, patient counselling, health awareness and public health. He said that “Women Empowerment for a Healthy Nation — Safe Medication, Better Health” is not merely the theme of Independence Day but also a message of social and professional responsibility for every future pharmacy professional. Assistant Professor Mrs. Harsha Verma highlighted the importance of women’s health and empowerment. She said that a healthy and empowered woman is the foundation of a healthy family and society. Promoting awareness among women regarding healthcare, safe medication practices and disease prevention is an important step towards strengthening the overall health of the nation. Assistant Professor Mr. Kishore Kumar Mahakud said that the safe use of medicines is directly connected with the health of every individual. He emphasized that the role of a pharmacist is not limited to dispensing medicines; providing patients with proper information regarding the correct, safe and rational use of medicines is also an important professional responsibility. Assistant Professor Ms. Uma Mahto addressed the students and said that today’s pharmacy students are the healthcare professionals of tomorrow. She encouraged them to make social responsibility, discipline, human sensitivity and the spirit of national service an integral part of their lives, alongside their professional knowledge. The programme was successfully conducted with the valuable contribution of Laboratory Demonstrator Ms. Safinaz Tayyaba and Laboratory Assistant Mr. Prateek. Students of B.Pharm and D.Pharm participated in the celebration with great enthusiasm, discipline and patriotic spirit. Through their active participation, messages related to women’s empowerment, safe medication use, health awareness and nation-building were effectively conveyed. The programme prominently conveyed the message that an empowered woman is the foundation of a healthy family, safe medication is the foundation of better health, and a responsible pharmacist is an important contributor to building a healthy nation. On the occasion, SDU School of Pharmacy reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that pharmacy education is not limited to academic excellence but remains continuously connected with public health, medication safety, women’s health and social responsibility. On the auspicious occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Sona Devi University and SDU School of Pharmacy reiterated their commitment to the unity, integrity, health and prosperity of the nation. The programme concluded with the inspiring message that “Women Empowerment for a Healthy Nation — Safe Medication, Better Health” should not remain merely a theme but should be reflected in our conduct and professional practices as a meaningful contribution towards building a strong, healthy and self-reliant India.