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SRHU Research Advisory Committee meeting held to discuss research priorities

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*SRHU Research Advisory Committee meeting held to discuss research priorities

Dateline Dehradun: Swami Rama Himalayan University follows the Guidelines laid down by the UGC in carrying out its research agenda for HEIs. The University has its unique Research Promotion Policy in place that is revised every three years, the last of which was done in 2022.

There are three levels of Governance structures, the top one is the Research Advisory Committee (RAC). Dr. Manju Sharma, Padma Bhushan and Former Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India is the Chairperson of the RAC. The RAC met for the second time during this year, earlier this week to look into the research priorities, human resource, infrastructure and collaboration with other institutions of eminence. The meeting was held in hybrid mode.

While Dr. Sharma, Prof. Anurag Sharma, Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi; Dr. Anirban Pathak, Professor of Physics & Material Science, JIIT, Noida and Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav, Director, IHBT-CSIR, Palampur joined online, Prof. N.K. Arora, Executive Director, The INCLEN Trust International & President AIIMS Patna and AIIMS Deoghar attended the meeting in person.

RAC made suggestions for expansion of research by hiring appropriate manpower especially in Post-doctoral positions, prioritizing research in a few select areas of regional importance, applying for project grants, funds and conduct long-term population-based studies. Recently, SRHU created a number of Chairs i.e. International & National Endowment Chairs; Emeritus Professor & for Visiting Professors. Dr. Aaron Ciechanover, Nobel Laureate, National Academy of Science & Humanity, Israel; and Dr. Rakesh Kumar, University of Washington have been honored with the International Endowment Chairs; Dr. Shashi Bala Singh, Former DG-Life Sciences, DRDO as the National Endowment Chair; Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Former Director, IHBT and Dr. Shubra Chakraborty as Professor Emeritus and Visiting Professorship respectively.

The University has created a Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship with a CEO appointed for the specific purpose. The University is already in the process of starting Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) and Research Associateship (RA). SRHU has a vision to create a few Centers of Excellence in the next 3-5 years involving national and international partnership. It was suggested to involve all these Chairs, RAC members and neighboring institutions for specific regional health, animal and plant-based research through an Apex Body.

Team Vishranti Hospitality champions of Dehradun Golf League

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Dateline Dehradun: Team Vishranti Hospitality lifted the trophy of the coveted Dehradun Golf League.

Over 90 golfers and 10 teams battled it out over three intense rounds, with the spotlight shifting to the eagerly anticipated Finals on Christmas Eve. A ground breaking initiative led by Sumeru Bahuguna, Dharmendra Bohra, Captain Sanjay Gandhi (Retd) and Honorary Committee Member Col. Rajat Sharma set the ball rolling of the league beginning December.

Avatara Stingers, Fairway Fighters, Original Doon Ryders  (Table Toppers after 3 rounds), Sultans of Swing, and Vishranti Hospitality locked horns in an Alternate Shot Strokeplay competition, vying for the prestigious title of Dehradun Golf League Champions.

 

IMA Commandant, Lt Gen Vijay Mishra complimented the team for putting together the initiative and bringing it to a fantastic conclusion in the hope that it will be a regular event on the sporting calendar of Doon valley.

With many a firsts under its belt, the League witnessed Harry Mann of Team Sultans of Swing secure a remarkable hole-in-one during the first round of the Dehradun Golf League. The rarity of this achievement, with odds at 12,500 to 1 according to the American Hole in 1 Society, underscores its exceptional significance.

In a sharp contrast to leagues in Bangalore that charge 3-5 lakh per team, while those in Delhi and Chandigarh charge anywhere between 4-21 lakhs, the Dehradun League registration cost was kept at a nominal 30,000 rupees, making it the most economical golf league in the country.

Adding more Sumeru Bahuguna, Founder of the Dehradun Golf League, stated, “What added magic to the sport was the picturesque course FRIMA. It served as a breath-taking backdrop for the league, offering a unique and visually stunning experience for both players and spectators.” He further added, “ DGL introduced a state-of-the-art app in partnership with MPower, a first for the city, serving as the official App & Scoring partner.”

Madhav Dalvi, the Team owner of Vishranti Hospitality highlighted the fact that the players included ‘yet to be teens’ to as old as 84 year old which made it an all inclusive sport and a fact that the league was proud of.

The Dehradun Golf League has made it marks on the annual golfing calendar of the country. It has kept its promise by enthralling convergence of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship. Definitely a golfing event to watch out for.

National Conference held at SRHU on Water, Agriculture, Sustainability & Health

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National Conference on Environment, Water, Agriculture, Sustainability and Health at SRHU

Dateline: Experts, academicians, students, policy visualisers and the like, congregated under the banner of ‘EWASH 2023: National Conference on Environment, Water, Agriculture, Sustainability and Health, at SRHU.’

The theme under consideration in this two-day conference has an urgency like never before : ’Protect the Blue and Green, Make the Earth Pristine,’ with aim to strategize a greener future.

Jointly organised by Swami Rama Himalayan University; Save the Environment, a society for research awareness and social development, Kolkata/Gurugram; DAV PG College Dehradun, Uttarakhand; National Academy of Sciences, Prayagraj UP; the conference seeks to bring to the forefront currently needed strategies and policies for environment protection, water management etc.

The welcome address on was delivered by Prof Sanjay Gupta, Principal, School of Biosciences SRHU, Dehradun. Thereafter introduction of ‘STE’ and ‘EWASH 23’ related details were provided by Dr Sushil K Singh, scientist F and additional Director, Solid State Physics Laboratory DRDO Delhi. This was followed by an address by special guest Dr Arunabha Majumder, patron, STE Kolkata. Then it was turn of Prof Sunil Kumar, Principal DAV PG College Dehradun to present his special address.

The Guest of Honour on the occasion was Dr SK Goyal, Chief Scientist and Head CSIR-NEERI Delhi Zonal Centre.

The dignitaries on the dais released an Abstract Book. STE Annual Awards ceremony was amongst the highlights of the event.

Chief Guest, Dr Vijay Dhasmana, Chancellor SRHU reflected upon awareness programs for fast tracking social development. “We are united in our battle for sustainable living. Healing of the environment and humanity in as a whole will remain our constant mission,” he underlined. “EWASH is an amazing effort that aims to address various challenges pertaining to environment related issues and sustainable living,” he added.

In his Presidential Address, Dr Rajendra Dobhal, Vice Chancellor SRHU shared his expert views on the importance of sustained efforts involving all stake-holders in conservation of green cover and mitigation of issues faced by the globe, “The conference in totality contemplated strategising a sustainable environment. Action points emerging from the conference are bound to expand our vision for the future,” he emphasised. “We are duty bound to put them to actions. SRHU has offered its wherewithal to buttress this effort that EWASH has undertaken in the manners of god’s own mission.

The first day drew to a close with the Vote of thanks delivered by Prof Prashant Singh, Co-ordinator EWASH 2023, DAV PG College, Dehradun.

The fragrance of ‘Himalayan’ dishes filled the air at SRHU Jollygrant

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Dateline Dehradun: The aroma of ‘Himalayan dishes’ filled the air at Jollygrant, Himalayan School of Vocational Studies and Skill Development (HSVGSSD). During the event, SRHU’s Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rajendra Dobhal jointly launched the new prospectus of HSVGSSD.

Himalayan School of Vocational Studies and Skill Development, along with the university’s hill campus in Pauri Garhwal, is conducting a 9-month Certificate course in Hotel Operation (CHO) in collaboration with Learn-it Learnets Skills. The first batch has completed a three-month academic term, and now students are heading to various prominent hotels for training during the remaining 6 months. The completion of the academic term was celebrated at HSVGSSD.

On this occasion, students showcased their skills by preparing traditional Uttarakhandi cuisine in the university’s Food Production Lab (kitchen). The mountain menu included dishes like Tour Dal, Fano Ka Saag, Mandwe ki Roti, and Jhangoora ki Kheer.

Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana encouraged students to take up entrepreneurship alongside congratulating them. Dr. Swarna Gupta from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, mentioned that SRHU provides international-level training, with special reference to hotel management and homestay, in the Food Production Lab.

During the event, Chancellor Dr. Rajendra Dobhal, Dr. Swarna Gupta from the Ministry of Tourism, Dr. Renu Dhasmana, Dr. Mukesh Bijalwan, Learn-it Skills Assistant Vice President Ramesh Petwal, Center Manager Sanjeev Binsola, Chef Akshay Thapliyal, Coordinator Prachi, and Diksha Silswal were present.

Launch of Prospectus :
Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rajendra Dobhal jointly launched the prospectus of various courses related to culinary and hotel management at the university.

Students honoured:
Students were honored by the Youth Tourism Club, formed by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rajendra Dobhal, and Dr. Swarna Gupta jointly provided T-shirts and caps to the students.

Helpline for Career Guidance at SRHU: 
Himalayan School of Vocational Studies and Skill Development (HSVGSSD) Jollygrant, and Pauri Garhwal campus has initiated Bachelor of Vocational-Culinary Management (three years), Certificate Course in Homestay (42 days), and Certificate in Hotel Operation (9 months) courses. More information is available on the university’s website www.srhu.edu.in. Additionally, candidates can obtain information through the mobile numbers 0135-2471135, 7060001774, 8219183866.

A Diplomat’s Garden discussed at VoW\Shabdavali, 2023

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Launch of Aftab Seth's A Diplomat's Garden at VoW, 2023

Dateline Dehradun: The two day celebration of the 7th edition of Valley of Words| Shabdavali, 2023 ended on a high note. With three exhibitions, over three dozen conversations and dozen book launches, the festival has made its mark on the literary calendar of the country.

The last book launch of the Signature event held was Aftab Seth’s memoir, “A Diplomat’s Garden.” The session began with the official book launch of the book by the esteemed panelists on the dias which included Shyam Saran as Chair and Prof Dipankar Gupta as Moderator.

Author Aftab Seth in Conversation with Prof Dipankar Gupta

A houseful attendance by the author’s readers, friends and family began with the introduction of the Chair as one of the most distinguished foreign service officers of India. Shyam Saran whose career spans over thirty decades and counting and currently helms the India International Centre.

In conversation with the author was India’s foremost sociologist and pubic intellectual Prof Dipankar Gupta who spent his early childhood with the author in Patna.

The autobiographical vein of the story carried a note of nostalgia as the author regaled his audience with anecdotes from his personal and professional life. The conversation began with a question pertaining to the author’s happiest days spent in Patna. “What made Patna the happiest upto the age of ten was my family, a well-knit, composite family, that represented in itself the plural strains of India and beyond India, and the street we lived was a microcosm of India as we knew it, a trusting, composite India with a wide range of people belonging to every religion and race, hence I call it the happiest days,” spoke Aftab Seth.

The author spoke at length about his childhood and his travel beyond India and how the manner in which he was brought up gave him the privilege to “appreciate, understand and observe the best influences of other cultures and other people.” His exposure in home, in his street and the society in which he lived, and countries he visited as a child because of his parents and as a student gave him the ability to appreciate other cultures that he came across.

Hitting a note with the young VoW volunteers, the author reiterated how academic excellence doesn’t take you very far, “but  gives you an intellectual depth to the work you are doing, it helped me write books, an ability to deal with other intellectual people.

Prof Dipankar Gupta read excerpts from the book which brought out the poetic inclination of the author. The camaraderie between the moderator and the author came across in the fascinating conversation as the audience listened in rapt attention as Aftab rattled out names of politicians, artists, intellectuals, authors all of whom he met during his postings.

Speaking about his stints in various countries and the cultural exchange that he inculcated during this posting in Germany, Japan, Pakistan, Baluchistan, Beirut and others Aftab said, “it was always about bringing India to whichever country we were in and taking that country to India, it was a two way exchange.”

With a dozen such book launches over two days VoW|Shabdavali has once again managed to spread the magic of the written word not only in the Doon Valley but beyond as well!

7th Edition of Valley of Words|Shabdavali, 2023 begins in Dehradun

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Team VoW launches TBR and Smarika

Dateline Dehradun: A bright December winter morning brought in the 7th edition of Valley of Words|Shabdavali 2023 as this year’s Festival began with a poignant rendition of the national anthem performed by the differently-abled students of the Bajaj Institute of Learning. Anoop Nautiyal welcomed the Hon’ble Governor of Uttarakhand Lt. Gen Gurmit Singh, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd) who presided over the dais for the launch of two books: Gajju Chalne Laga by Anita Bhatnagar Jain and Administration in India by IAS officer couple Ashish Srivastava and Iva Srivastava including special editions of Shabdavali Smarika featuring a collection of 15 Hindi book reviews across genres and the 40 critical analyses of the annual VoW edition of The Book Review.

The Hon’ble Governor’s speech engendered cheers from the young students in attendance. Highlighting the enduring value of tradition within the festival, his emphasis on the vital role of words to build bridges of connection resonated: “Harness the power of your words, and realize your self worth!” The echoes of applause continued as the efforts and hard work of the Indian military service were appreciated. This was followed by Festival Director Sanjeev Chopra’s introduction of VoW’s work and efforts stemming from Dehradun.

The audience listening to HE Governor in rapt attention

The vibrant atmosphere continued with the Village Square featuring a Book Launch, Community Game, and Exhibition, all coordinated by Sristhee Sethi. In a simultaneous session, the book Dinank Ke Bina brought forward the reflections of VoW Awardee Usha Kiran Khan in conversation with Sushil Upadhyay, Someshwar Pandeya and Sarishma Dangi; through Gandhian ideology and the importance of rooted language, she spoke about her own journey and the perils of male dominance in a two-faced society: “Humein relief nahin, haq chahiye.” A little while later, an entrancing discussion for the book Kanyadaan: The Bride translated by VoW Awardee Lalit Kumar reiterated the importance of not treating the educated and the uneducated like a dichotomy. Chaired by Surekha Dangwal with Radhika Jha as Discussant, the session closed on the note that the vibrancy of the Indian spirit exists on a varied spectrum that celebrates vitality, where diversity thrives rather than one side being sidelined by the other.

The afternoon brought a cultural jamboree with “Iti Natya” and “Iti Nritya”, featuring performances like “Aikyam: One Earth, One Family” from Doon International School, curated by Jyoti Dhawan, and a Kathak performance by Shubhatrayee Satwe under the guidance of Shalini Rao. Literary connoisseurs were in for a treat with the launch of Sylhet to Shillong: The Story of the Last IGP of Undivided Assam by Bijoya Sawian, and a tribute to the legendary Doon resident Raj Kanwar. VoW Awardee Mandira Shah spoke about her book Children of the Hidden Land and how the sensitive north-eastern region of the subcontinent is still not discussed as a full part of India. Chair Pooja Marwah and Aarohi Bhattacharya and Aayan Azmi from the TonsBridge School discussed with the author how location shapes character, and Mandira also talked about her writing process, themes, character-building through names — and in a Rapid Fire rebound — the fact that her instant happiness comes from her young daughter.

The evening’s Mushaira curated by Dr S Farooq and sponsored by Tasmia Academy witnessed the best of ‘shaayari ka mahaul’. Sheher se Dus Kilometer by VoW Awardee Neelesh Raghuvanshi tackled the enduring plight of farmers, echoing Munshi Premchand’s timeless concerns, while simplifying the Bundelkhandi language for accessibility to rouse interest among readers in a session chaired by Ram Vinay Singh. The day concluded with No Way In by VoW Awardee Udayan Mookerjee with Ratna Manucha and Satish Aikant discussing how difficult it is for minorities to find success in larger society: “If you miss the first few rungs of the ladder, it is not impossible — but very difficult to catch up.” Polite-society hypocrisies are visible in how we say we feel pained by the miserable lives of our workers, but don’t take enough concrete actions to rectify their situations.

A particularly insightful session based on the exhibition ‘Evam Vadati Pustakam’ delved into the essence of manuscripts. Discussants included Shyam Saran, Sudha Gopalakrishnan, Abhinav Kumar, and Lokesh Ohri; all of them universally agreed on physical constraints in terms of the survival of the manuscripts, and the crucial role of open discourse in fostering trust in their translated voices. This broad-ranging session ended with a deliberation on how the same text can be open to multiple interpretations.

Notably, VoW remains its true self – free and open to all. The evening was brought to a magical end with an hour long musical soiree by two young talents from ITC, Sangeet Academy Ashis Paul and Swarnendu Mondal. As the curtains dropped on Day 1, attendees dispersed with memories of community, laughter, and the promise of more delights tomorrow. The Festival has set the stage for a memorable celebration of literature, bringing together authors, thinkers, and enthusiasts in a joyous celebration of the written word. To all readers, students, academics, and fellow travelers – VoW welcomes you to become part of this vibrant symphony of voices, this literary feast for all senses, and celebration of the human spirit that resounds to spread the word—and beyond!

SRHU Jollygrant sets an example in the field of energy conservation

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SRHU has played a leading role in national development by contributing to energy conservation.

Today marks National Energy Conservation Day. Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU) through its sponsored institution, Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust (HIHT), has established itself as a hub for health and education. In this context, SRHU has played a leading role in national development by contributing to energy conservation.

According to a report, the world is nearing pre-pandemic levels of global carbon dioxide emissions. Dr. Vijay Dhasmana, Chancellor of SRHU Jollygrant, emphasized the importance of solar energy in reducing carbon footprint, stating that solar energy is the best option for curbing the ever-growing electricity consumption in large institutions.

First Step in 2007:
Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana mentioned that the importance of solar energy is well understood at SRHU. To achieve this, a committee of experts was formed in the institution. Understanding the future needs, the first step towards energy conservation was taken in 2007. Solar water heater panels were installed in all hostels, including the Himalayan Hospital and Cancer Research Institute.

SRHU has played a leading role in national development by contributing to energy conservation.

Installed the First 500 kW Rooftop Solar Panel in 2017:
Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana revealed that in 2017, a decision was made to connect with the National Solar Mission. Considering the 70% subsidy provided by the government for installing solar panels for rooftop solar energy production in Himalayan states, 500 kW rooftop solar panels were installed in Nursing and Medical Colleges.

Saving 61,15,332 kWh (units) of Electricity:
Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana informed that from 2017 till now, 1500 kW solar panels have been installed on the roofs of various buildings on the university campus. This has resulted in a saving of 61,15,332 kWh (units) of electricity for SRHU.

Providing Water to Mountains Through Solar Energy:
Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana stated that solar energy has also been used to supply water to remote villages in the mountains. In 2014, in Chureddhar Village in Tehri, water was supplied to the village through a solar pumping plant. With the help of this, there was a saving of approximately Rs. 43,000 annually, considering the daily consumption of 23 units of electricity.

Reduction of Approximately 1455 Tons of Carbon Emissions:
Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana mentioned that the danger of global warming is becoming evident. The major cause of this is carbon emissions. With the help of 1500 kW rooftop solar panels at SRHU, there has been a reduction of approximately 1455 tons of carbon emissions. This is a record compared to any institution in Uttarakhand.

Meeting 16% of Electricity Demand through Solar Energy
Girish Uniyal, Head of the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Department, mentioned that a 3500 kW power plant has been installed in the institution according to the energy demand. In the last three years, the institution has been meeting 16% of its electricity demand through solar power plants.

Received ‘Green Practices Award’ from CII:
Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana informed that recently, for all these achievements of the institution, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has honored the university with the ‘Green Practices Award’ in the service category, recognizing it with the ‘Gold Award’. In this category, it is an honor for the university to be the first and only institution in North India.

Appeal to Adopt Solar Panels:
Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana said that all citizens must play an alert role in energy conservation. In the coming times, there is a significant threat to daily life from global warming. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a habit of relying on natural energy from now on. Energy conservation is essential for the protection of nature.

Dr. Purandhi Rupamani’s patent makes heart treatment affordable 

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Dateline Dehradun: Spotlight is now on Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU) Jollygrant’s ‘Himalayan School of Biosciences.’ Assistant Professor with the School, Dr. Purandhi Rupamani’s Discovery of ‘stent’ through the use of generic drugs, has accrued three major benefits for people suffering from heart ailments in the future.

After angioplasty, the use of medicines in treatment (medicine load) will now be almost eliminated. The discovery is in keeping with the ‘Make in India’ concept formulated by the Prime Minister shares Dr. Purandhi who was driven by her desire to serve society in keeping with the vision of SRHU’s social responsibility.

Chancellor Dr. Vijay Dhasmana congratulated Dr. Purandhi Rupamani, and stated that this discovery could prove to be a boon for humanity.

This could result in the heart treatment becoming affordable in the future.

This “stent” has been invented using new technologies that are comparatively affordable.
This pathbreaking effort has made use of ‘generic drugs’ in the stent. The Indian government has rightly granted a patent for Dr. Purandhi’s invention.

A patent for the ‘Development of Dual Drug Eluting Stent of the Treatment of Coronary Artery Disease’ by Dr. Purandhi has been granted. This stent may be used during angioplasty for the treatment of heart patients.

Dr. Vijay Dhasmana adds that SRHU has a proud record in the field of research and innovation. It is proud that this new patent could be highly beneficial for public health.

He added that the university has ever since its inception focused on research work. Important work on several new discoveries is underway in the university’s state-of-the-art laboratories. Success in more research is expected soon.

One patent, three benefits:
Dr. Purandhi explains that this patent could bring three major benefits to heart patients in the future.

First Benefit: Reduction in the cost of stents – Dr. Purandhi explains that foreign companies are producing drug-eluting stents, which cost around one to two lakh rupees. This new stent has been developed using generic drugs, making the cost of the stent approximately half the price of other stents available in the market.

Second Benefit: Reduction in the consumption of medicines after treatment – Even after angioplasty, patients usually have to take atorvastatin and fenofibrate medicines for a lifetime. The stent she has developed uses these medicines in the construction of the stent layer. This will result in a significant reduction in the consumption of medicines by patients after angioplasty.

Third Benefit: Reduction in the thickness of the stent – Dr. Purandhi explains that the stents currently available have a thickness of four microns, while the stent she has developed has a size of one micron.

90% Success Rate – Dr. Purandhi mentions that the human trial for the stent developed is yet to be conducted. In the 28-day testing on mice, the stent showed a success rate of over 90%.

Dr. Purandhi revealed that now the stent will undergo pre-clinical trials on larger animals such as pigs and rabbits.

‘Make in India’ Concept – Dr. Purandhi Rupamani said that when she was working on this project, she made the ‘Make in India’ concept the core principle. She wanted a modern stent to be made in India. The cost of the stent made in India would be much lower than the cost of foreign stents. This way, every needy citizen of the country could have access to high-quality stents.

Doon University & VoW host the Finale of Gaura Devi Debate

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Finale of National College Debate

Dateline Dehradun: The Gaura Devi National Debate on Human Rights, a collaborative effort between NHRC, Vatsalya, and Valley of Words|Shabdavali reached its conclusion with an offline final event hosted at Doon University on December 10, 2023. The event showcased the participation of eight talented students who successfully navigated three challenging rounds – pre, quarter, and final.

The proceedings commenced with an inaugural ceremony led by the Vice-Chancellor of Doon University, Prof. Surekha Dangwal, and Mr. Sanjeev Chopra from Valley of Words, alongside esteemed members of NHRC and Dr. Chetana Pokhriyal. Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, the Chief Guest, sent a video message highlighting the emphasis of Human Rights. He also motivated the young participants with his  words of encouragement.  Justice U.C. Dhyani, Chairman, Uttarakhand Public Service Tribunal was the Guest of Honour and laid down the norms of human rights by citing references from cases on how judiciary helps restore human rights.

Lamp lightning at the finale of the National College Debate

The topic for the debate “Nation State is the Best Guarantor of Human Rights” marked the 71st anniversary of Human Rights Day. Mr. Devendra Kumar Nim, Joint Secretary, National Human Rights Commission appreciated various gamuts of human rights as vigorously enunciated by the debaters. Prof. Surekha Dangwal, Vice Chancellor,  Doon University, paid tribute to Gaura Devi for her Chipko Movement and hailed her an  exemplary figure  of Human Rights in an unorganized platform. Prof. H.C Purohit, Dean, Students Welfare and School of Management, Dr. Harsh Dobhal, Prof. Rajesh Kumar, Dean School of Mass Communication and Media Studies, Mr. Narendra Lal, Dr. Gazala Khan, Mr. Mehul, Mr. Ayush Kurien, Ms. Aporwa and Mr. Shabeer Ahmad Shah graced the occasion with their presence. The entire event in four rounds that spanned for over 20 days was coordinated by Dr. Aditi Bist, Faculty Coordinator, Vatsalya Debating Club of Doon University.

Throughout the event, the participating students demonstrated their intellectual prowess, offering insightful perspectives on the topic. Their articulate and thought-provoking contributions not only captivated the audience but also significantly enhanced the overall success of the debate. The collaboration between NHRC, Vatsalya, and Valley of Words, complemented by the support of Doon University, provided a rich platform for discussing and understanding the pivotal role of the nation in safeguarding human rights. The event was judged by eminent personalities in their field Ms. Jyoti Dhawan, Ms. Sunita Vijay and Mr. Manoj Manekar.

The Gaura Devi National Debate on Human Rights, characterized by its combination of academic rigor and constructive dialogue, stands as a significant achievement, fostering a deeper understanding of this vital subject matter. The first and second prizes of Rs. 31,000 and Rs. 21,000 respectively were bagged by Satakshi from Law College, Dehradun and Manisha Rawat from Delhi University in Hindi Category. The cash prize of Rs. 31,000 and Rs. 21,000 were bagged by  Sambhav Pratap Bhatt from Law College, Dehradun and Priya Singh from Delhi University in English category respectively.

HIHT Honours people of determination

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Dateline Dehradun: On the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, various programs were organized at the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust (HIHT) in Jollygrant. More than 25 persons with disabilities were honored at the Rural Development Institute (RDI).

Dr. Vijay Dhasmana, the Member of HIHT Presidential Body and Chancellor of Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU) Jollygrant, in his message, stated that our efforts towards the empowerment of persons with disabilities are ongoing. Bringing persons with disabilities into the mainstream of society and making them more empowered is a collective responsibility. The significance of observing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities lies in everyone contributing to it.

Addressing the program organized by RDI at HIHT, Dr. Vijendra Chauhan emphasized that the goal of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is to create an environment of equality for disabled individuals, along with providing equal opportunities for progress and development. To achieve this, awareness must be raised in society. Additionally, we need to be aware of their nutrition and health to protect the future generations from disabilities.

Approximately 50 persons with disabilities participated in the program. Dr. Vijendra Chauhan, during the event, provided certificates and materials for self-employment, such as sewing machines for 25 or more disabled individuals, along with materials for a tailoring shop, a vegetable cart, and materials for cattle farming, along with scholarships. Furthermore, recognition awards were given to Badarabad residents Deepak Kumar, Veer Singh, and Ajay Kumar, who are working for the upliftment of persons with disabilities.

Senior pediatric specialist at Jollygrant’s Himalayan Hospital, Dr. B.P. Kalra, mental health specialist Dr. Priya Ranjan Avinash, and Dr. Ashwani Bhatt from the Neurology Department shared their thoughts on children’s learning disabilities.

Dr. Rajiv Bijlwan, the Director of RDI, and Program Officer Neelam Pandey provided information about the programs being undertaken for the upliftment of persons with disabilities.

Dr. V.D. Semwal proposed the vote of thanks. The program, conducted under the direction of Ravindra Verma, was successful with contributions from Dr. Nancy, Vikesh Semwal, D.P. Uniyal, Digvijay Bisht, Jyoti Verma, Sunita Badoni, Meena, Richa, Gajendra, Satendra, Payal, Nagma, Nidhi, Naresh Thapliyal, and Deepak Joshi.