The Chronicles

Roundtable on Quality Assurance in Higher Education

The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), NICMAR University Pune, organized a roundtable discussion on “Quality Assurance in Higher Education” on 10 March 2026. The session brought together academic experts to discuss emerging trends, challenges, and best practices, while building awareness of evolving quality assurance practices and strengthening institutional frameworks through shared insights.
The panel featured Dr. Rohini Bhalerao-Panajkar (MIT World Peace University), Dr. Ganesh Pathak (Sri Balaji University), and Dr. Rachayya R. Arakerimath (JSPM’s Rajarshi Shahu College of Engineering). Attended by senior management, the event facilitated meaningful dialogue and knowledge exchange. Dr. Sushma Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor, felicitated the panelists, and the session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Rahul Deshpande and Dr. Amit Hiray.

NExUS-26: Annual Exhibition by School of Architecture and Planning

The School of Architecture and Planning (SAP), NICMAR University Pune, organized NExUS-26 (NICMAR Exhibition of Urbanism and Spatial Design), a two-day exhibition showcasing academic work from B.Arch and M.Plan programs under the theme “Form in Flux.”
The event highlighted innovative design explorations and was complemented by a student-led sketching workshop and an architectural quiz, encouraging creativity and peer learning. Graced by Dr. Sushma Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor, respective Deans, faculty members, and distinguished guests including Ar. Jayant Dharap, Mrs. Sujata Dharap, and Ar. Anagha Paranjape-Purohit, the exhibition saw participation from students, parents, and other institutions.
NExUS-26 provided a vibrant platform for interdisciplinary exchange and engagement between emerging architects and industry experts.

Outbound Training Programme on Personal Effectiveness and Team Building

The Centre of Excellence in Academic Practice organized a two-day outbound training programme for faculty on “Developing Personal Effectiveness, Collaborative Competence and Change Resilience” in two batches (28 Feb–1 March and 7–8 March 2026) at Garudmaachi, a residential training centre by High Places Management Pvt. Ltd.
The programme combined outdoor experiential activities with reflective discussions to enhance teamwork, communication, leadership, adaptability, and resilience. Activities such as team challenges and rappelling encouraged participants to step out of their comfort zones while fostering trust and collaboration.
Overall, the programme provided a valuable platform for self-reflection, team bonding, and experiential learning, contributing to both personal and professional development among faculty members.

Orientation Programme for New Faculty @ NICMAR University Pune

The Centre of Excellence for Academic Practices conducted a full-day Orientation Programme for newly joined faculty on 13 February 2026 at NICMAR University Pune. The programme introduced participants to the University’s academic culture, administrative processes, research environment, and examination system, along with a focus on innovative teaching practices for student engagement.
The session was inaugurated by Dr. Sushma S. Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor, followed by inputs from academic leaders and administrative heads on institutional policies and expectations. Post-lunch, hands-on workshops by senior faculty emphasized learner-centered teaching methods and modern instructional strategies.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, marking a successful initiative toward integrating new faculty into the University’s academic ecosystem.

NICMAR Alumni Meet & AGNI IGNITE – North Conclave 2026 | Delhi-NCR

NICMAR successfully hosted the Alumni Meet & AGNI IGNITE – North Conclave 2026 in Delhi-NCR, bringing together alumni, industry leaders, and academicians for meaningful exchange and networking.
The conclave featured Mr. Gurjot Bhatia (Turner & Townsend) as Distinguished Speaker and Mr. Tushar Mittal (Officebanao) as Keynote Speaker, along with insights from leading professionals across organizations such as Deloitte, Accenture, AECOM, and SYSTRA India.
Graced by NICMAR leadership, including Director General, Interim, Dr. Tapash Kumar Ganguli, Vice Chancelor, Dr. Sushma Kulkarni, and other senior members, the event served as a dynamic platform for thought leadership, industry–academia collaboration, and strengthening alumni engagement.

Industry Expert Talk on Sustainable Waste Management

NICMAR University Pune hosted an expert talk on 18 March 2026 featuring Mr. Krishnan Komandur (CEO) and Mr. Ashish Marathe (GM) from the Adar Poonawalla Clean City Initiative (APCCI).
Mr. Komandur delivered a session on “Leading Innovation in Technology-Driven and Sustainable Waste Management for the Betterment of Society,” highlighting emerging innovations, the role of technology, and evolving industry expectations. The interactive session, including a Q&A, provided students with valuable real-world insights into sustainability practices.

Industry Expert Talk on PMI Certifications

NICMAR University Pune organized an expert talk on 18 March 2026 featuring Mr. Anirudh A. Sharma and Mr. Rishabh Jain from the Project Management Institute (PMI).
The session, “Introduction to PMI Certifications and Their Benefits for NICMAR Students,” provided insights into globally recognized project management certifications and their role in enhancing career prospects. The speakers emphasized the value of PMI credentials in today’s competitive landscape and guided students on certification pathways and their practical relevance.

Guest Session on Electrical Components for MEP Projects

The School of Project Management, NICMAR University Pune, organized a guest lecture on 26 March 2026 for MBA APM students on “Selection and Performance of Electrical Components for MEP Projects.”
The session was delivered by Mr. Aniruddha Dahiwele (General Manager – MEP, Prestige Estate Projects Ltd.), who discussed fundamentals of electrical systems, compliance requirements, sustainable practices, and presented a case study on transformer and DG set selection for a high-rise residential project.
The interactive Q&A session further helped students clarify concepts and gain practical insights.

Expert Lecture on Emerging Challenges in Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)

The School of Construction, NICMAR University Pune, organized a guest lecture on “The Challenges and State of the Art in PPP” on 13 March 2026.
The session was delivered by Mr. Probal Ghosh, Executive Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers Pvt. Ltd., who provided insights into Public-Private Partnerships in infrastructure development. He highlighted key challenges such as regulatory complexities, risk-sharing, financing constraints, transparency issues, and project delays, emphasizing the need for effective strategies to address them.

Guest Lecture on Applied Risk Management

NICMAR University Pune organized a guest lecture on “Applied Risk Management: Response Strategies, Monitoring Mechanisms, and Risk Register Practices” on 13 March 2026 for MBA (Advanced Construction Management) students.
The session was delivered by Dr. Anand Aswale (Deputy General Manager, Kalpataru Projects International Ltd.), who shared practical insights on risk response strategies—avoidance, mitigation, transfer, and acceptance—along with monitoring mechanisms and the importance of maintaining a dynamic risk register.
The lecture effectively bridged theory and practice, enhancing students’ understanding of contemporary risk management in construction projects.

Workshop on Construction Safety, Digital Tools, and AI Applications

NICMAR University Pune organized an industry-oriented workshop on “Construction Safety Management with Special Reference to Tunneling and Specialized Structures” on 26 March 2026 for MBA ACM students.
The workshop featured expert sessions by Mr. R. K. Singh on tunneling safety challenges, Mr. Pravin Ghatole on behavioural safety, and a hands-on session by Mr. Kaushik Markale demonstrating SafetyApp and AI-based PPE detection.
The session provided a comprehensive understanding of modern safety practices by integrating field insights, behavioural approaches, and emerging digital technologies.

Expert Session on Synchronous Supply Chain

First-year MBA students at NBS attended an insightful session by Mr. Milind C. Panditrao, Mentor in Digital Transformation at ACTIN Technologies, on “Synchronous Supply Chain.” The interactive session offered practical insights into integrated supply chain strategies, enhancing students’ understanding of how synchronization drives efficiency and innovation in today’s dynamic business environment.

Visit to Paranjape Schemes

Students from NICMAR’s Family Business and Entrepreneurship program undertook an enriching field visit to the flagship township project of Paranjape Schemes (Construction) Ltd. (PSCL).
The visit provided hands-on exposure to the planning, management, and execution of large-scale township developments, enabling students to connect classroom concepts with real-world practices. The experience offered valuable industry insights and practical learning.
NICMAR extends its gratitude to PSCL for facilitating this meaningful learning opportunity and supporting experiential education.

Site Visit to Pune–Mumbai Expressway Missing Link Project

The The School of Engineering, NICMAR University Pune, organized an academic site visit on 28 March 2026 for third-year B.Tech Civil Engineering students to the Pune–Mumbai Expressway Missing Link Project under the guidance of Dr. Mohammed Rihan Maaze.
The visit provided practical exposure to advanced construction techniques such as cable-stayed bridges, long-span viaducts, and tunnel excavation by Afcons Infrastructure Ltd. Students also interacted with industry professionals, gaining insights into project planning and challenges in complex terrain.

Industry Visit to Modern PCC Overlay Highway Construction

The School of Engineering, NICMAR University Pune, organized a site visit on 13 February 2026 for Civil Engineering students to the Pune–Nashik Highway (NHAI) Project.
The visit provided hands-on exposure to modern highway rehabilitation techniques, including PCC overlay systems, sensor-enabled paving, asphalt plant operations, and quality control practices. Students also gained insights into sustainable infrastructure features such as drainage systems and wildlife corridors, enhancing their understanding of contemporary highway construction.

Technical Session Chair at International Conference

Dr. Pradeepta Kumar Samanta was invited to serve as a Technical Session Chair at the International Conference on “New Economic Order and Corporate Strategic Response (ICNEOCSR-2026): Recognise, Realign, Respond”, organized by the Department of Commerce, Berhampur University, Odisha, on 16–17 March 2026. The conference was held as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Department. His participation reflects academic excellence and contributes to strengthening institutional engagement with global research and scholarly discussions.

TECHNIKALA 2026 -Secrets, symbols, and the search beyond!

Technikala 2026 - Secrets, symbols, and the search beyond! themed "The Chronicles of the Lost Island”, witnessed vibrant participation and dynamic energy across campus.
With nine diverse domains, the fest featured technical, business, cultural, literary, design, photography, sports, and e-sports events, fostering creativity, competition, and collaboration over three days.
Key highlights included Pro Shows such as a stand-up performance by Aditya Gundeti, an energetic DJ Night, and a live concert by Mithoon. The fest transformed the campus into an immersive “lost island,” creating a memorable and engaging experience for all participants.

NICMAR Volleyball Team Continues Winning Streak

NICMAR Volleyball Team Triumphs at RUNBHOOMI Tournament at ISB&M University

The NICMAR University Volleyball Team emerged as winners of the prestigious RUNBHOOMI tournament at ISB&M University. Competing against strong teams from across Pune, the players showcased exceptional skill, discipline, determination, and team spirit throughout the competition.
This achievement marks the team’s second consecutive victory, reflecting their consistent performance and growing dominance in university-level volleyball. Their success stands as a testament to their dedication and commitment to excellence, bringing pride to the NICMAR community.

Team Members:

Pruthviraj Gaikwad, Anandu Gopan, Harshit Kumar Dubey, Ritik Raj, Parth Sonune, Animesh Tamang, Kumar Harshit, Om Ashok Kokane, Devesh Nauhawar, Yash Kumbalwar, Vedith N Rai, and Mayank Joshi.
The university extends heartfelt congratulations to the team and wishes them continued success in future tournaments.

NICMAR Volleyball Team Triumphs at Super Cup 2026 at FLAME Univrsity

The NICMAR University Volleyball Team emerged as winners of the prestigious Super Cup 2026 volleyball tournament hosted by FLAME University. Competing against strong teams from across Pune, the players demonstrated exceptional skill, discipline, determination, and team spirit throughout the tournament.
This achievement reflects the team’s consistent hard work and commitment to excellence, bringing great pride to the NICMAR community. Notably, Pruthviraj Gaikwad was awarded Best Attacker of the Tournament for his outstanding performance and significant contribution to the team’s success.

NICMAR Volleyball Team Secures Hat-Trick Victory at CHRI-SPO’26

The NICMAR University Volleyball Team achieved a remarkable milestone by emerging as winners of the prestigious CHRI-SPO’26 volleyball tournament hosted by CHRIST University. Competing against strong teams from across Pune, the players demonstrated exceptional skill, discipline, determination, and team spirit throughout the tournament.
This achievement marks the team’s third consecutive victory, completing an impressive hat-trick and underscoring their consistency and growing dominance in university-level volleyball competitions. The accomplishment reflects the team’s dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence, bringing immense pride to the NICMAR community.
The university extends heartfelt congratulations to the team and wishes them continued success in future tournaments.

Ram Navami @ NICMAR

From 26 to 28 March 2026, the campus celebrated Ram Navami with devotion and unity, bringing students together to honor tradition and cultural values.
The celebrations included a flash mob and aarti on 26 March, a Bhajan Sandhya on 27 March, and an energetic Palki Yatra on 28 March. A creative representation of the story of Lord Rama through models added depth to the festivities.
The event fostered a peaceful and inclusive atmosphere, concluding the month on a meaningful note of faith, culture, and community bonding.

NICMAR SPEAKS 2026: Empowering Voices, Inspiring Confidence

The NICMAR SPEAKS Public Speaking Competition for ACM students was successfully conducted on 25 March 2026, providing a platform to enhance oratory skills, confidence, and stage presence.
Following a screening round, the top finalists delivered impactful speeches at the Mini Auditorium. Mr. Jayesh Patil secured first place, while Ms. Kanishka Singh won second place.
The event was conceptualized and conducted with the support of faculty, and proved to be a valuable initiative in strengthening students’ communication skills, critical thinking, and professional readiness.

M. Plan students win First Prize in LAP competition

First-year Master of Planning (Urban Planning) students from NICMAR University Pune secured the 1st Prize at “The LAP Initiative” organized by the Department of Planning, MIT ADT University during Persona Fest 2026, winning top honors and a cash prize of ₹10,000.
Competing against UG and PG teams, the students presented an innovative Local Area Plan (LAP) for Pune’s historic Kasba Peth, integrating infrastructure, sustainability, and community needs through fieldwork, GIS mapping, and detailed analysis.
The achievement reflects the students’ strong planning skills and innovative approach to addressing urban challenges.