Co Curricular

First Prize at 32nd Raman Memorial Conference for IoT-Based Driver Safety System

Under the guidance of Dr. Prachi Nerkar, 21 B.Tech students from JSPM University participated in the Engineering Model Demonstration at the 32nd Raman Memorial Conference, organized by the Department of Physics, Savitribai Phule Pune University, on February 26–27, 2026. A total of six projects were showcased, among which a student team secured the First Prize for their innovative model titled "Design and Implementation of an IoT-Based Driver Alcohol Detection and Vehicle Immobilization System Using ESP8266." The achievement highlights the university's commitment to fostering innovation, interdisciplinary research, and practical problem-solving skills in emerging technologies.

Educational Visit to Pimpri Chinchwad Science Park – CSE & AIML Students

On November 5, 2025, students from four divisions of JSPM University’s Computer Science Engineering (CSE) and Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (AIML) programs visited the Pimpri Chinchwad Science Park, Pune. The objective was to explore scientific exhibits, research initiatives, and hands-on demonstrations to understand real-world applications of science beyond classroom theories. Students actively participated in guided tours, live experiments, and interactive activities across various sections of the science park, demonstrating enthusiasm and keen interest. The visit successfully fostered deeper insights into scientific innovation and cutting-edge research. Coordinated across multiple days, the experience provided valuable practical exposure and inspired students toward interdisciplinary learning.

Second Lecture of Dr. Jayant Narlikar Memorial Lecture Series – Phosphors and Their Applications

On August 11, 2025, the Department of Physics at JSPM University Pune organized the second lecture of the "Dr. Jayant Narlikar Memorial Lecture Series" (JNM Talks). The invited speaker was Prof. Dr. Sanjay Dhoble from R.T.M. Nagpur University, a renowned physicist specializing in materials science and phosphor research. He delivered a talk titled "Synthesis and Multiple Applications of Phosphors." The lecture series aims to provide a dynamic academic platform for dialogue among experts, faculty, research scholars, and students, while inspiring passion for scientific inquiry and higher education in theoretical and experimental physics. The session successfully enhanced understanding of phosphor materials and their real-world applications.

Inauguration of Dr. Jayant Narlikar Memorial Lecture Series (JNM Talks)

On July 28, 2025, the Department of Physics at JSPM University, Pune, inaugurated the "Dr. Jayant Narlikar Memorial Lecture Series" (JNM Talks), honoring the legacy of the renowned astronomer and science popularizer. The series aims to foster academic engagement, ignite scientific curiosity, and promote dialogue among experts, faculty, research scholars, and UG/PG students. The first lecture, titled "Shaping the Future with Physics: Opportunities in Higher Studies and Scientific Research," was delivered by Dr. Vikas Kashid of MIE-SPPU Institute of Higher Education, Doha-Qatar. The initiative successfully provided a dynamic platform to inspire budding physicists in theoretical and experimental domains.

MoU Signing Between JSPM University and Pune Knowledge Cluster

The Department of Physics at JSPM University Pune has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Pune Knowledge Cluster to foster research and development and provide valuable internship opportunities for B.Sc. and M.Sc. Physics students. This strategic collaboration aims to enhance academic excellence, promote innovation, and create industry-oriented learning opportunities. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, the MoU will enable students to gain practical exposure, engage in cutting-edge research, and develop skills relevant to contemporary scientific and technological careers. The initiative reflects JSPM University's commitment to strengthening industry-academia linkages and empowering students through experiential learning.

Educational Visit to SPPU for First-Year B.Tech(Computer Science) Students

On March 21, 2025, an educational visit was organized for 47 first-year B.Tech (Computer Science) students of JSPM University to Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU). Coordinated by Dr. Prachi Nerkar under the supervision of Dean-FST Prof. Dr. R. S. Deshpande, the visit aimed to expose students to real-world applications of scientific principles, focusing on renewable energy and science communication. The objective was to broaden perspectives, enhance understanding of applied sciences, and foster interdisciplinary learning. Accompanied by faculty members, students gained valuable insights into practical scientific applications, making the visit a successful academic enrichment experience that bridged classroom theory with real-world innovation.

Educational Visit to Savitribai Phule Pune University – Department of Physics & CSEC

On September 27, 2024, 57 first-year B.Tech (Electronics & Telecommunication) students from JSPM University, accompanied by four faculty members, visited Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU). The visit focused on the Department of Physics and the Centre for Science Education and Communication (CSEC). Organized by Dr. Prachi Nerkar under the guidance of Prof. R. S. Deshpande, the objective was to expose students to advanced research facilities, modern instrumentation, and practical learning opportunities. Active coordination by Dr. Neha Bhatnagar, Dr. Darpan Bhuse, Dr. Milind Kharat, and Ms. Sharayu Kadam ensured smooth execution. The visit successfully enhanced students’ understanding of science and technology through real-world exposure.

Hands-On Workshop on Computer-Interfaced Physics Experiments Using SeeLab 3.0

The Department of Physics at JSPM University Pune organized a three-day hands-on workshop from September 19–21, 2024, led by Dr. Ajith Kumar B. P. (IUAC, New Delhi). The workshop introduced 820 participants—including faculty, BCA, B.Sc. Computer Science, DSAI, and B.Tech. CSE students—to computer-interfaced experiments using SeeLab 3.0 kits under the PHOENIX Project. Attend gained practical exposure to sensors, actuators, real-time data acquisition, Python-based customization, visual programming, and RC/RLC circuit experiments. The event successfully enhanced experimental skills, interdisciplinary learning, and innovative teaching, reinforcing JSPM University’s commitment to technology-driven education.

Industrial Visit to Vasantdada Sugar Institute – Department of Biotechnology, JSPM University (2025-26)

On March 6, 2026, 50 Biotechnology students from JSPM University visited Vasantdada Sugar Institute, Pune. The industrial visit provided exposure to sugarcane biotechnology, including hi-tech agriculture labs with biofertilizers and biopesticides, tissue culture for disease-free plant propagation, molecular biology techniques like DNA fingerprinting and genetic transformation, soil profile studies, and alcohol technology involving ethanol production, fermentation, and distillation from molasses. Students observed pilot winery, nano brewery, and molasses processing. Feedback was highly positive, with students appreciating practical demonstrations and industrial applications. The visit effectively bridged classroom biotechnology concepts with real-world agricultural and industrial processes in the sugar sector.

Field Visit to Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) – Department of Biotechnology, JSPM University

On November 7, 2025, 50 Biotechnology students from JSPM University visited Agharkar Research Institute, Pune. The one-day field trip exposed them to diverse research areas: desiccation-tolerant plants, plant molecular systematics with chromatography techniques, freshwater diatoms for pollution assessment, palaeobiology featuring stromatolites and fossils, biogas research with anaerobic cultures, and fermentation technology using bioreactors. Students observed live instrumentation, interacted with scientists, and connected classroom theory with real-world applications. Feedback was highly positive, with students requesting more such visits. The experience significantly enhanced scientific curiosity, research motivation, and understanding of multidisciplinary biological research.

Online Engagement Program Report – Department of Biotechnology, JSPM University (2025-26)

From August 4–14, 2025, JSPM University’s Department of Biotechnology conducted a two-week online seminar to orient UG/PG students. Led by Dr. Anuradha Deshpande and faculty experts, sessions covered degree structures, research methodology, computational biology, lab safety, IPR, and career opportunities. Interactive talks, virtual tours, and bioinformatics demonstrations enhanced learning. With 50 student participants, post-event feedback was highly positive (4.5/5), highlighting relevant topics and engaging delivery. Students gained clarity on academic norms, lab practices, and emerging biotech trends. The program successfully fostered motivation, foundational knowledge, and future-ready skills, with requests for more such initiatives.

Educational Visit to Science Park, Pimpri-Chinchwad

On 5th November 2025, the Faculty of Science and Technology organized an educational visit to Science Park, Pimpri-Chinchwad, for B.Sc. and M.Sc. Mathematics and Statistics students. The visit aimed to help students understand real-life applications of mathematical and statistical concepts through interactive exhibits on physics, mathematics, environment, and technology. Students observed geometric structures, statistical models, and mechatronics demonstrations, including engine suspension and motor functioning. The experiential learning approach strengthened analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and scientific curiosity. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with students appreciating hands-on demonstrations that bridged theoretical knowledge with practical understanding. The visit successfully promoted interdisciplinary and inquiry-based learning.

Educational Visit to India Science Festival (ISF) 2026 at IISER Pune

On 10th January 2026, the Department of Mathematics organized an educational visit to the India Science Festival (ISF) 2026 held at IISER Pune for B.Sc. and M.Sc. students. The festival exposed students to current developments in Mathematics, Statistics, Data Science, and Artificial Intelligence. Participants attended expert lectures and panel discussions by renowned scientists on topics like mathematical modeling, statistical applications in healthcare and climate science, and interdisciplinary research. Students also explored science exhibitions and poster presentations, interacting directly with researchers. The visit enhanced awareness of career opportunities, motivated students toward higher studies and research, and successfully bridged classroom learning with real-world scientific applications.

One-Day Workshop on "Contemporary Mathematics: Challenges and Opportunities"

On 13th August 2024, the Department of Mathematics organized a workshop addressing the declining number of students pursuing mathematics. Key speakers included Prof. S.B. Nimse, Prof. M.M. Shikare, and Prof. V.M. Sholapurkar. Major discussions focused on perceptions of mathematics as difficult, lack of career awareness, outdated curricula, and societal factors. Recommendations included enhancing early engagement through math clubs and quizzes, promoting diverse careers (data science, finance, technology), updating curricula with real-world applications, and using innovative teaching methods. The workshop emphasized integrating technology and student-centered approaches to make mathematics engaging. The event successfully developed strategies to reverse enrollment decline and inspire future mathematicians

One-Day National Seminar on "From Data to Decisions: Visualization, Modelling, and Communication (NSDDVMC-2026)"

On 11th April 2026, the Department of Mathematics organized a hybrid National Seminar featuring expert lectures by Prof. R.S. Deshpande, Prof. M.M. Shikare, Prof. M. Kasture, and Dr. M.G. Shrigan. Sessions covered diverse topics: mathematics behind QR codes, mathematical modelling of real-world problems, ecological diversity using mathematics, and effective use of AI in applied mathematics. The seminar aimed to highlight the role of mathematics in data-driven analysis, visualization, and decision-making. A total of 187 students and 49 faculty participated. Outcomes included enhanced understanding of interdisciplinary applications, increased motivation toward research, and strengthened academic culture. Feedback praised the practical, future-oriented presentations.

Expert Lecture on "Mathematics and Aerospace Engineering: Solving Real-World Challenges"

On 16th February 2026, the Department of Mathematics hosted Dr. Sher Afghan Khan, Professor at International Islamic University, Malaysia, and a top 2% global scientist, for an expert lecture on mathematics in aerospace engineering. The session covered applications of differential equations, numerical methods, fluid dynamics, and computational simulations in aircraft design, space missions, and engineering systems. Dr. Khan highlighted emerging interdisciplinary research opportunities for mathematics students. The interactive lecture motivated participants to pursue research-oriented and application-based learning. Students gained valuable insights into how mathematics drives modern technological advancements. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants requesting more such industry-academia interactive sessions.

Two-Day National Conference on "Recent Advances in Pure, Applied and Industrial Mathematics Driven by AI and Machine Learning (RAPIAM-2025)"

On 5th-6th June 2025, the Department of Mathematics organized a national conference in honor of Prof. S.B. Nimse. The inaugural session featured Prof. Ravi Joshi (President), Prof. B.B. Ahuja (VC), and Prof. M.M. Shikare (IMS General Secretary). Key speakers included Prof. Bivudutta Mishra (BITS Pilani) on cosmic phenomena, Prof. Krishnendu Gongopadhyay (IISER Mohali) on topology in data analysis, and experts on AI tools, LLMs, representation theory, and machine learning. Paper presentations were held in parallel sessions (online/offline). Outcomes included rich research exchange, enhanced understanding of mathematics in AI/ML, and conference proceedings publication. The event successfully fostered interdisciplinary collaborations.

Space on Wheels Exhibition – A Collaborative Initiative by VIBHA and ISRO

On November 6, 2024, over 300 first-year B.Tech students from JSPM University attended the "Space on Wheels" exhibition, organized jointly by Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) near the university campus. The interactive exhibition aimed to foster scientific curiosity and inspire future technologists. Inaugurated by Prof. R. S. Deshpande, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, the event featured faculty coordinators Dr. Afreen Siddiqui, Dr. Shrigan, and Dr. Prachi Nerkar, along with VIBHA and ISRO officials. Prof. Deshpande emphasized bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world space science applications. The exhibition successfully engaged students and promoted interest in space technology.