NSS, Panjab University, Celebrates "Maiden Cleanliness Drive" 

Chandigarh, February 15, 2024: NSS, Panjab University, Chandigarh  Celebrates "Maiden Cleanliness Drive" with Innovative Leaf Collector Machine at P.L Anand Auditorium.

Panjab University's NSS organized a remarkable event, titled "Maiden Cleanliness Drive with Our In-House Developed Leaf Collector Machine," on February 15, 2024, commemorating the Random Act of Kindness Week. The event unfolded at the P.L Anand Auditorium, Panjab University with Professor Renu Vig, the Vice Chancellor, presiding over the ceremony as the Chief Guest. Professor Sanjeev Puri, Director of UIET, and Professor Mohsen Rahmani from the School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, UK, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honours.

The primary objective of the event was to acknowledge and honour the students from the Electrical and Electronics Engineering and Mechanical Engineering departments who successfully developed a leaf collector machine. This innovative project was made possible through a grant received from the Department of Science and Technology and Renewable Energy. The dedicated students, Ankit, Mohit, Narayan, Saket, and Saurabh from UIET, were felicitated during the ceremony for their outstanding contribution.

Under the able guidance of Dr. Rajesh Kumar (Mechanical Engineering, UIET), Dr. Gaurav Sapra (Electrical and Electronics Engineering, UIET), and Dr. Preetika Sharma (Electrical and Electronics Engineering, UIET), the students' efforts resulted in the creation of a cutting-edge leaf collector machine.

Dr. Praveen Goyal, NSS Coordinator at Panjab University, extended a gracious welcome to the dignitaries present. Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig lauded the initiative spearheaded by Dr. Parveen Goyal, NSS Coordinator, PU, applauding the conceptualization of using the developed machine to foster a cleaner and greener campus. Prof. Vig also warmly welcomed Prof. Rahmani, an esteemed guest currently visiting Panjab University, India, expressing anticipation for collaboration on a project with PU and PGIMER under the esteemed Royal Society Yusuf Hamied Fellowship.

Professor Sanjeev Puri, Director UIET, applauded the remarkable achievement of UIET students and acknowledged the efforts of the NSS team for putting up an excellent show.

Dr. Gaurav Sapra shared illuminating insights into the origin of the leaf collector machine, inspired by the observation of leaves accumulating on roadsides, particularly during autumn. The objective was twofold: to design a machine that not only automated the leaf collection process but also included a mechanism for transforming the collected leaves into compost. Dr. Sapra provided detailed information, encouraging and motivating students to tackle real-world problems through innovative solutions. The event concluded on a vibrant note with cultural dance performances featuring Haryanvi, Himachali, and Punjabi dances by the NSS team, adding a celebratory touch to the memorable evening.