THE CHRONICLES
(Monthly Newsletter of NICMAR University Pune)
Nurturing Ideas and Shaping the Built Environment of Tomorrow!!
March 2024
Volume 2, Issue 3
March 2024
Leadership Speak 
NICMAR University, Pune is India’s pioneering institution focused on the built environment. It produces academically proficient students poised to tackle industry challenges efficiently and sustainably. The university’s commitment lies in knowledge creation and dissemination related to the built environment sector. Within its diverse domain-specific schools, the School of Architecture, Planning, and Real Estate (SoAPRE) stands out. This school offers three specialized and unique programs, opening new vistas of opportunity for students.
As per the recent report from Knight Frank, the outputs from the real estate sector are estimated to grow to USD 1 Trillion by 2030 from the current USD 650 Billion. MBA in Real Estate and Urban Infrastructure Management with 15 years of legacy and 800+ alumni addresses this need by developing real estate professionals with abilities to manage real estate businesses and deal with the entire real estate project lifecycle, including land procurement, project development, costing, financing, marketing, and facilities management. Master's in Urban Planning is another interesting postgraduate program that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework necessary to shape the cities of tomorrow, fostering resilient, inclusive, and vibrant urban environments that enhance the quality of life for all residents.
As per the CoA Perspective Report of 2020 notes, only two of every 100 buildings constructed are designed by architects. This indicates that the profession needs deeper market penetration and the need to demonstrate the value of architectural design. Our newest and most ambitious undergraduate program, the Bachelor of Architecture aims to generate architects capable of managing ambitious projects with international standards.
SoAPRE collaborates with business titans to give students access to real-world opportunities and insights, making our programs applicable to real-world settings. We have created outreach programs to draw in a wider spectrum of talent through in-person seminars, online webinars, etc. to foster diversity and inclusivity. The school hosts a diverse range of faculty members with varied areas of expertise combined with cutting-edge infrastructure with developing technology. This creates an enabling learning environment focused on interdisciplinary cooperation, innovative learning, and sustainable practices. We strive to nurture and enhance industry-ready graduates with practical skill sets contributing to India’s rapidly growing Real Estate sector. We welcome students with a zeal for learning and an ambition to be trailblazers in this sector.
Warm Best Wishes,
Dr. Sagar Malsane
Dean – Architecture, Planning and Real Estate, NICMAR University, Pune
March 2024
Alert
ICCRIP 2024 Abstract Submission Deadline: 30th March 2024.
For more details https://www.nicmar.ac.in/iccrip2024March 2024
Announcements
Admissions 2024
Ph. D. Admission Notification July 2024
NICMAR Doctoral School has opened admissions for the Ph.D. programs commencing in July 2024. This opportunity extends to full-time and part-time programs, encompassing a spectrum of disciplines including Construction Management, Project Management, Energy and Environment Management, and Business Management.
Application Deadline: April 10th, 2024.
For more information, kindly visit our website: https://www.nicmar.ac.in/
March 2024
Happenings @ NICMAR
Leadership Insights/Recognition
Dr. (Prof) Anil Kashyap Chancellor & President of NICMAR was invited for a panel discussion on ‘Energy Efficiency and Role of Triple Sector Leadership’ at the Alliance for an Energy Efficiency Economy conference.
NICMAR President & Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) Anil Kashyap joined thought leaders at Godrej Construction Delta Fest 2024 – Industry Day, on Feb 28th at Auditorium, Plant 13 Annexe, Mumbai. He explored on the crucial role of "Culture in the Real Estate & Construction Industry."
Dr. Mrs. Sushma Shekhar Kulkarni, Vice-Chancellor of NICMAR University Pune, has been awarded the "Principal Dr. R. P. Joshi-Best Principal Award" for her outstanding administration, leadership, research, and contribution to the academic sector.
Dr. Kulkarni's journey at Kasegaon Education Society's Rajarambapu Institute of Technology, Rajaramnangar, Islampur, Sangli, has been marked by her exceptional work in the field of education. The award ceremony was held recently, at the Association Sabhagruh, Atharv Chamber Shivajinagar, Pune.
SWAYAM-NPTEL Recognition
It gives us pleasure to share that NICMAR University, Pune has been awarded with "AA" grade for July – December 2023 as a local chapter (as compared to "A" of previous semester).
Industry-Academia Collaboration Opportunity
It was an absolute delight to host esteemed delegates from Godrej Properties Limited NICMAR University, Pune for an enriching discussion on potential avenues for collaboration.
Megha Goyal - CHRO, along with Apkeshit Khare-Zonal HR Head, Jyoti Mallick, Zoya, Shriram Joshi, Supriya Naik, and Ruhi Singh met Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mrs. Sushma Kulkarni, along with Dr. Jonardan Koner, Dr. Srividhya Sridharan, Dr. Gautam Vikhe and Vijay Nishandar, and shared their valuable insights.
The meeting was brimming with enthusiastic exchanges as we explored various avenues for a robust collaboration between our organizations. It was inspiring to witness the shared vision of both organizations towards fostering innovation and growth in the real estate sector. In addition to strategic discussions, they met with selected students from the batch of 2023-24 for final placements and summer internships in Godrej Properties, opening doors for bright career opportunities and meaningful engagements.
NICMAR Doctoral School Events
On February 8, 2024, Dr. Arkaprabha Bhattacharya, a distinguished scholar with a Ph.D. from Purdue University and currently engaged in postdoctoral research at Delft University of Technology (Netherlands), shared invaluable insights from his Ph.D. journey. He discussed the challenges he encountered and offered strategies for navigating the Ph.D. process successfully, including tips for publishing research papers in renowned journals.
Technical Literature Review Session was conducted by Dr. S. S. Bhosale Former Professor and Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, COEP Technological University, Pune on February 27, 2024. Key points included distinguishing between literature review and literature survey, conducting systematic reviews, identifying gaps in existing literature, and selecting appropriate methodologies.
Leadership Development Program
Fostering the culture of continuous learning, The Centre of Excellence for Academic Practices, in collaboration with IQAC organized three days Leadership Development Program for the leadership team of NICMAR University, comprising of all Deans and Heads. It was two days outbound training program at Uksaan, Kamshet and the third day training was within the campus. The training was led by Mr. Chetan Patil & Ms. Shalaka from Explorentia Organisational Consultants.
The participants were guided through various challenging activities during the outbound training. The objective was to facilitate change, think differently and find newer ways of working together and collaborating.
Everyone participated enthusiastically in this training, challenging themselves to try new things, reflect on it and then respond.
Panel Discussion on “Accreditation: Systems, Processes and Benefits”
A Panel Discussion on “Accreditation: Systems, Processes and Benefits” was organized by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of NICMAR University, Pune on 28th February 2024.
The session was presided over by the honourable Vice Chancellor, Dr. Sushma Kulkarni who emphasized the significance of accreditation in her inaugural talk. Dr. R. K. Jain, Professor, Civil Engineering, Director, JSPM's Rajarshi Shahu College of Engineering, Pune, Dr. Sudeep D. Thepade, Dean, QA & Professor, Computer Engineering, Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering, Pune and Dr. Niyaj Shikalgar, Head, Department of Automation & Robotics, D.Y. Patil Institute of Technology, Pune were the expert panelists for the session.
The discussion was moderated by Dr. Amit Hiray, Head QA, NICMAR University, Pune. The panelists provided a comprehensive overview of accreditation systems, highlighting their benefits, challenges and proactive measures to address them. All faculty members of NICMAR University, Pune & Prof. Madhav B. Kumthekar, an expert in the accreditation process, attended the session and actively participated in the question and answer session.
Workshop on Waste Water Reuse
The students and faculty members of School of Energy and Environment (SOEE) attended the Wastewater Reuse Workshop was held at MCMCR Complex, Powai, Mumbai on February 10, 2024.
Eminent wastewater management specialist Dr. Ajit Salvi gave a thought-provoking keynote lecture. The speaker underlined the value of reusing wastewater to mitigate the problems associated with water shortages and presented effective case studies from around the globe. Numerous case studies highlighting effective wastewater reuse initiatives from a range of industries, including municipal, agricultural, and industrial, were presented throughout the workshop.
Corporate Connect Initiative
School of Energy and Environment arranged a Guest talk on GHG Accounting and Auditing Procedure. The talk was delivered by Mrs. Nishigandha A. Mehta and Mrs. Sujana Prajithkumar, the Directors of Red Enviro Consultancy and Engineering Services on February 8, 2024.
The talk enlightened on the concept of Organizational Boundaries, Net Zero Emissions, Nationally Determined Contributions, COP 28 outcomes, the Paris Agreement and the initiatives taken by the Indian Government to tackle Climate Change. The event was a great success, raising awareness of the steps that nations have taken and will continue to take to address and mitigate the consequences of climate change, starting with carbon emission calculations.
Guest Talks
A guest talk on “Water Stewardship: Case Studies on Lake Rejuvenation” was organized on February 28, 2024, by the School of Energy and Environment. Ms. Pooja Tendulkar, Co-founder of Lemnion Green Solutions, Pune and a member of the IWA, delivered this talk.
The lecture focused on Water Rejuvenation case studies, the process of approach for execution of projects which includes Baseline survey information, Site Observation, Problem identification, Interaction with the stakeholders, Involve the Stakeholders, Planning and Design, Execution, Campaigns, Monitoring, Conclusion and Challenges faced during the Rejuvenation of any water body like river, lake, etc. This guest lecture expanded the students' knowledge and inspired them to embrace the discipline of Nature-Based Solutions in the rejuvenation of water.
School of Project Management conducted a guest session title “Financial Modelling and Feasibility Analysis” for the MBA APM programme, junior students on 24th February 2024.
M Plan Team of the School of Architecture, Planning and Real Estate had the pleasure of hosting Ms Rakshada Rode, Urban Planner for a guest session at NICMAR University, Pune. Her insights into preparing the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Plan enriched students' understanding of urban planning. This session emphasized the importance of mentorship in shaping the future of urban planning.
Industry Connect Series
In continuation of the Industry Connect Series, three industry expert talks were organized in the month of February. On 31st January, Mr. Abhay Kamthankar, Joint General Manager (L&T Realty Ltd) gave a highly inspiring talk on '𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧'. Students had a dynamic discussion on intricacies and challenges in Project Execution.
On February 7 2024, Mr. Anand Gosavi, Managing Partner at A. A. PMC and ENGG., delivered an inspiring talk on ‘Contracts Management in Indian Projects Scenario’. Students engaged in a dynamic discussion on FIDIC, drafting and management of contracts, administration of contracts, and claims avoidance.
Mr. Akshay Pahade (Managing Partner) and Ms. Prachi Jaiswal (Senior Manager) of “Grattitude Synergy LLP” delivered an inspiring talk on ‘Keeping Alive the Entrepreneurial Spirit' on 21st February 2024. The talk highlighted the challenges and complexities faced by young entrepreneurs in running their own venture.
Site Visit to Dhule
From February 10th to 16th, 2024, the M.Plan students embarked on an immersive Urban Planning Field Survey in Dhule city. In collaboration with the State Planning Department and Dhule Municipal Corporation, they conducted site visits, engaged stakeholders, and collected data to craft a comprehensive Development Plan.
Students navigated the complexities of urban planning with confidence and immersed themselves in Dhule's vibrant community, listening to voices and crafting a plan that resonated with local aspirations. This transformative experience left an indelible mark on our students' journey.
Faculty and Staff Achievements/Awards
Insights on Interim Budget by Dr. (Prof.) Anil Kashyap, Chancellor and President of NICMAR, was covered in a leading newspaper.
Dr. Abhijat Arun Abhyankar and Dr. Sudarsan J. S. were honoured as eminent Jury of the year 2024 for their valuable contribution and outstanding services in selecting the best practicing industries under different categories and sectors for Indian Green Awards and for creating awareness in the Environmental field.
Dr. Amit Goel was recently awarded with Certificate of Appreciation for his instrumental role as SPOC for the SWAYAM-NPTEL Local Chapter.
Prof. Ramakrishna received a rare gesture of appreciation from Institute of Town Planner, India for his invaluable contribution as an author of the paper, in 72nd NTCP held on January 5-7, 2024.
Mr. Ganesh Pandey was awarded with medal for successfully completing the Pune-Hyderabad-Pune International LRM Cycling comprising of challenging 1200 km route in 86 hours and 8 minutes, well within the allocated time of 90 hours. The Event organized by the PCMC Cyclist Club from February 22nd to February 26th, 2024.
March 2024
Executive Education Programs
Following management development programs (MDPs) were organized by the School of Executive Education Programmes, NICMAR University, Pune in the month of February:
| Name of the Program | Name of the company | Date | No. of participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project Manager Capability Development Programme for Civil SBU | KEC International Ltd | 07th & 08th February 2024 | 21 officers |
| Project Management Champions’ Programme Level 2 | The Tata Power Company Limited | 10th February to 24th February 2024 (Hybrid mode) | 22 officers |
| MDP on Project Site Management | NINA Percept Private Limited | 20th February to 22nd February 2024 | 22 officers |
| MDP on Contract Management | Reliance BP Mobility Limited | 26th February to 01st March | 26 officers |
March 2024
Student Nook
Cricket Tournament
The cricket team of NICMAR University, Pune emerged as proud runners-up at the 6th State Level Inter Collegiate Vishwanath Sports Meet 2024 hosted by MIT-ADT University! Outshining 47 teams from across the state, NU's cricketers demonstrated exceptional skill and unwavering determination. Congratulations to the team for their remarkable performance.
A notable highlight of the event was NIC’MARATHON, a spirited 5 KM race that stood as a symbol of endurance and unity. Adding to the significance, the 5th edition of the Fit India Movement, launched by the Prime Minister, was observed and commemorated throughout SPARDHA'24. As the week unfolded with competitive spirit, Team Sheershak emerged as the overall winner!
Blood Donation Drive 2024
In the wake of NICMAR University’s flagship event - TECHNIKALA 2024, a remarkable Blood Donation Drive was conducted on 10th February 2024, in association with Manipal Hospitals. Observing over 130+ generous donors, a commendable total of 55 litres of blood was collected, destined for saving the lives of those in need.
Saraswati Puja 2024
On 14th February 2024, NICMAR University's Pune campus commenced its 3-day celebrations of Saraswati Puja with great enthusiasm. The campus was adorned with stunning decorations surrounding the eco-friendly idol of Goddess Saraswati.
The aarti was conducted with reverence in the presence of esteemed guests including Dr. Anil Kashyap, President and Chancellor, Dr. Sushma S Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Prashant Dave, Registrar, Dr. Poonam Kashyap, Director of Strategy and External Partnerships and Dr. Jonardan Koner, Dean of Career Services. Students relished a delicious feast showcasing traditional Bengali cuisine. On the third day of the celebrations, the visarjan of the idol took place, marking the conclusion of the auspicious occasion.
Shiv Jayanti 2024
As the sun rose on 19th February 2024, NICMAR University, Pune, prepared to honour the birth anniversary of the esteemed Maratha Warrior King, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The Shiv Jayanti celebrations commenced with a palkhi procession starting from Gate No. 1, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Dhol-Tasha. Students sang a traditional Powada song, followed by a heartfelt aarti in homage to Maharaj. The campus was beautifully adorned with decorative installations resembling the majestic Killa (fort), adorned with vibrant rangolis, adding to the festive atmosphere.
March 2024
Placement Spotlight
The Month of February was equally exciting as the previous months with a good number of prominent recruiters conducting the process for Final Placements as well as Internships for our students. Among the many companies participating we were proud to host Godrej Properties, Mace International, Lakeshore India, Cushman & Wakefield, Jio-BP, Grattitude Synergy, Raymond Realty, ANJ Group, Vishwaraj Infra, Veolia, CBRE & Tata Bluescope Steel. The selections in Placements and Internships spread enthusiasm & joy in all courses alike.
Dr. Anil Kashyap
President and Chancellor
NICMAR University, Pune
Dr. Mrs. Sushma S. Kulkarni
Vice Chancellor,
NICMAR University, Pune
Dr. Rahul Deshpande
Dean QA,
NICMAR University, Pune
Dr. Vandana Bhavsar
Associate Professor,
NICMAR University, Pune
Dr. Soumi Rai
Associate Professor,
NICMAR University, Pune
25/1, N.I.A. Post Office,
Balewadi, Pune – 411 045,
Maharashtra, India