The Chronicles

Monthly Newsletter of NICMAR University Pune

Nurturing Ideas and Shaping the Built Environment of Tomorrow!!

July 2026, Volume 4, No. 7
Nurturing the Leaders of Tomorrow: Reflections on a Successful Placement Season 2025-26

The Placement Season 2025–26 has been a defining chapter in NICMAR University’s journey of nurturing future-ready professionals. Beyond placement statistics, this season reflects the strength of our enduring partnerships with industry, our commitment to student development, and our vision of creating leaders who are prepared to shape the future of the built environment.

Despite a placement cohort of 1,234 students, we have achieved an impressive placement rate of 98%, with 1,209 students securing career opportunities across more than 170 organizations, including over 40 first-time recruiters. The continued trust reposed by leading organizations across Infrastructure, Real Estate, EPC, Manufacturing, Oil & Gas, Consulting, Project Management, and allied sectors is a testament to the relevance of our industry-integrated curriculum and the capabilities of our graduates.

This confidence is further reflected in our improved compensation benchmarks. The Mean CTC increased to ₹9.68 LPA, while the Median CTC rose to ₹8.72 LPA, surpassing last year's performance of ₹9.25 LPA and ₹8.00 LPA respectively, reaffirming the growing value that employers associate with NICMAR talent.

A significant milestone this year has been the expansion of our global footprint with the successful placement of two students in international internships in Singapore. While modest in scale, this achievement represents the beginning of a promising global engagement strategy that will create broader international opportunities for our students in the years ahead.

At NICMAR University, career success is built on a strong foundation of continuous learning and employability enhancement. Throughout the year, we strengthened our career readiness ecosystem through structured interventions in resume building, group discussions, personal interviews, and competency development. The introduction of globally benchmarked SHL Assessments for first-year students marked another important step towards adopting a data-driven approach to employability, enabling personalized learning pathways aligned with evolving industry expectations.

Equally important has been our sustained engagement with industry leaders. Through 15 Industry Expert Talk sessions, students gained valuable exposure to emerging trends, leadership perspectives, and real-world business challenges, complementing classroom learning with practical insights that prepare them for dynamic professional environments.

Our commitment to strengthening the industry–academia interface was further demonstrated through the successful hosting of the Second Edition of the HR Summit 2026. Bringing together over 60 HR and business leaders under the theme "HR 5.0 for Nation Building: Shaping Next-Generation Talent in the Built Environment Ecosystems," the summit fostered meaningful dialogue on future skills, AI-enabled workplaces, workforce transformation, and collaborative approaches to talent development. Such platforms reinforce NICMAR University's role as a thought leader in shaping the future workforce for the built environment sector.

Our alumni community continues to be one of our greatest strengths. Through nine editions of the NICMAR Global Alumni Meet, our alumni reaffirmed their commitment to the University by serving as mentors, recruiters, guest speakers, and ambassadors. Their active engagement enriches the student experience, strengthens professional networks, and creates enduring opportunities for future generations of NICMAR graduates.

As we reflect on another successful placement season, it is evident that career services today extend far beyond facilitating employment. They are about creating an ecosystem where academic excellence, industry collaboration, experiential learning, leadership development, and lifelong alumni engagement converge to prepare professionals capable of leading with competence, integrity, and purpose.

As we move forward, NICMAR University remains steadfast in its commitment to deepening industry partnerships, expanding global opportunities, and developing professionals who will not only build world-class infrastructure but also shape the future of the built environment with innovation, responsibility, and leadership. This is the legacy we continue to build—one graduate, one partnership, and one success story at a time.

Dr. Jonarden Koner
warm regards,
Dr. Jonarden Koner
Professor and Dean
Career Services and Alumni Relations
Deeksharambh 2026: Beginning the Academic Journey at NICMAR University

NICMAR University, Pune, warmly welcomed its incoming batch through Deeksharambh 2026, the University's Student Induction Programme held from 6th to 10th July 2026. The week-long programme was designed to familiarize students with the University's academic environment, institutional values, campus resources, and student support systems, ensuring a smooth transition into university life.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by the presence of Dr. Anil Agarwal, Vice-Chancellor (I/C), Dr. Tapash Ganguli, Director General (Interim), Deans, faculty members, staff, and the entire NICMAR fraternity. The occasion was further enriched by the presence of the Chief Guest, Dr. Rupesh Kumar Pati, Professor at the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode, whose inspiring address encouraged students to embrace curiosity, innovation, and lifelong learning.

Throughout the induction week, students participated in a series of sessions introducing them to academics, library services, examinations, research opportunities, student affairs, code of conduct, counselling services, IT systems, placements, entrepreneurship, and various student support initiatives. Dedicated School sessions enabled students to interact with their respective Deans and faculty members, providing an overview of their academic programmes and expectations.

The programme also featured insightful industry interactions with experts from leading organizations who shared perspectives on emerging technologies, digital construction, career readiness, professional branding, sustainability, and workplace expectations. Yoga and meditation sessions, added a holistic dimension to the induction experience.

Deeksharambh 2026 marked the beginning of an enriching academic journey, reaffirming NICMAR University's commitment to providing a vibrant learning environment that nurtures academic excellence, professional competence, and holistic development.

NICMAR University Inaugurates Advanced 3D Concrete Printing Facility

NICMAR University, Pune, inaugurated its state-of-the-art 3D Concrete Printing Facility, marking a significant milestone in advancing innovation, research, and digital construction technologies in the built environment. The inauguration was attended by the University's leadership, deans, faculty members, and staff.

The large-scale commercial 3D concrete printer, procured from Tvasta Manufacturing Solutions, an IIT Madras-incubated start-up, is among the most advanced facilities of its kind in India and is believed to be the first such installation on an Indian university campus. The facility will support research, prototyping, industry collaboration, and skill development in additive manufacturing and Construction 4.0 technologies.

Aligned with NICMAR University's commitment to innovation and sustainability, the facility will enable researchers, students, and industry partners to develop sustainable construction materials and next-generation building solutions. This landmark initiative further strengthens the University's position as a leader in technology-driven education and sustainable infrastructure development.

Driving Sustainability: NICMAR Inaugurates EV Charging Station

NICMAR University, Pune, inaugurated a new Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station on campus, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, green infrastructure, and environmentally responsible mobility. The inauguration was attended by the University's leadership, deans, faculty members, and staff.

The facility supports both two-wheeler and four-wheeler electric vehicles, offering convenient charging access for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The initiative promotes the adoption of clean transportation while contributing to the University's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

The EV Charging Station marks another milestone in NICMAR University's vision of creating a smart, sustainable, and future-ready campus that encourages green mobility and environmental stewardship.

POSH Awareness Training Reinforces Safe Workplace Culture

The Internal Committee for POSH, in collaboration with the HR Department, organized a POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) Awareness Training Programme on 24 June 2026 for employees of the Pune and Mumbai campuses.

The online session was conducted by Ms. Tanvi Auradkar, POSH expert, psychological counsellor, and corporate trainer, who sensitized participants to workplace safety, employee rights and responsibilities, and the prevention of sexual harassment through interactive discussions and real-life case studies. Coordinated by Ms. Anjana Bharti (Mumbai) and Dr. Kirti Rajhans (Pune), the programme reinforced NICMAR University's commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace built on dignity, equality, and zero tolerance towards sexual harassment.

NICMAR University Celebrates World Environment Day

On 5 June 2026, NICMAR University, Pune, celebrated World Environment Day with a series of activities that combined academic engagement with environmental action, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and climate-conscious development. Organized by the School of Energy and Environment (SOEE) and the School of Engineering (SOE), the celebrations reflected the global theme, "Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future."

The programme featured a webinar jointly organized by the ASCE Students Chapter and the IWA Students Club, where industry experts and academicians discussed nature-based solutions, smart water management, ESG practices, and the role of emerging technologies in building a sustainable future. Interactive sessions also highlighted the use of AI and smart technologies to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Complementing the academic discussions, faculty members and students participated in a tree plantation drive by planting native saplings across the campus, reinforcing the university's commitment to biodiversity and ecosystem restoration. The celebration also showcased NICMAR University's sustainability initiatives, including its IGBC Platinum-certified green campus, water conservation systems, and zero-waste management practices, inspiring the university community to continue building a greener and more sustainable future.

NICMAR University Celebrates International Day of Yoga 2026

NICMAR University celebrated the International Day of Yoga on 21 June 2026 with enthusiastic participation from faculty, staff, employees, and their children. The event promoted physical fitness, mental well-being, and holistic wellness through a guided yoga session led by Mr. Govind Gadgil, with support from Ms. Sushma Kalurkar and Mr. Kondappa Mitkari.

A drawing competition on the theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing" encouraged employees and their children to creatively express the importance of yoga and healthy living. The celebration concluded with the felicitation of the winners, reflecting NICMAR University's continued commitment to fostering health, harmony, and community engagement.

SOEE Represents NICMAR at ICONS 2026

The School of Energy and Environment (SOEE) at NICMAR University, Pune, strengthened its global academic presence through its participation in the International Conference on Advances in Engineering and Technology for Sustainable Development (ICONS 2026), hosted by Hanoi University of Civil Engineering, Vietnam, in collaboration with the International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB).

The conference brought together leading researchers, industry experts, and policymakers from around the world to deliberate on key themes including sustainability, the circular economy, health and safety, and innovations in the built environment.

Representing NICMAR University, the SOEE Sustainability Research Team showcased its research, engaged with eminent global experts, and explored collaborative solutions to emerging sustainability challenges. The conference provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, international networking, and strengthening research partnerships, reinforcing SOEE's commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research and NICMAR University, Pune's vision of contributing to the global sustainability agenda through academic excellence, innovation, and international collaboration.

Faculty/Staff Achievements & Recognition
Dr. J.S. Sudarsan Represents NICMAR at IIT Madras Workshop

Dr. J.S. Sudarsan, Head of the School of Energy and Environment (SOEE), represented NICMAR University, Pune, at the prestigious workshop on Digital Technologies for Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste Management hosted by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) under the Technologies for Low Carbon and Lean Construction (TLC2) initiative.

The workshop brought together leading experts from academia, industry, and government to deliberate on emerging digital solutions for sustainable construction waste management. Dr. Sudarsan's participation reflects NICMAR University's growing academic engagement in sustainability research and its continued commitment to advancing innovation and collaboration in the built environment.

Dr. Pradeepta Kumar Samanta Delivers Expert Talk on AI

Dr. Pradeepta Kumar Samanta was invited as a Distinguished Resource Person at the Five-Day Online Faculty Development Program on "AI-Driven Research Methodologies, Advanced Analytics, and Ethical Academic Practices," organized by the Army Institute of Management and Technology (AIMT), Greater Noida.

On 12 June 2026, he delivered an expert session titled "Future of AI-Augmented Research and Academic Publishing," highlighting the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in research design, literature review, data analysis, academic writing, and scholarly publishing. The session emphasized the ethical use of AI, research integrity, transparency, and responsible academic practices, while offering practical insights into leveraging AI tools to enhance the quality and impact of scholarly research.

NPTEL Discipline Star Recognition

Dr. Deepak Sundrani, faculty member, School of Construction, has been recognized as an NPTEL Discipline Star in the discipline of Management for the January–April 2026 session.

The NPTEL Discipline Star recognition is conferred upon learners who successfully complete multiple NPTEL courses within the same discipline, demonstrating sustained commitment to continuous learning and academic excellence.

This recognition reflects Dr. Sundrani's dedication to professional development, lifelong learning, and academic excellence, exemplifying his commitment to continuously enhancing knowledge and expertise in his field.

SOEE Students Win Prerana Energy Society Awards 2026

The School of Energy and Environment (SOEE) at NICMAR University, Pune, celebrates the outstanding achievement of three MBA Sustainable Energy Management (2024–2026) students who received the Prerana Energy Professionals' Co-operative Society Ltd. (PEPCSL) Best Energy Management Student Awards 2026 for their academic excellence and contributions to the field of sustainable energy.

The awardees are:

  • N. Durga – Top Student Award (EM-I)
  • Ms. Sreepana Harshavardhan – Renewable Energy Prize (RE-II)
  • Ms. Ruchi Malpani – Renewable Energy Prize (RE-II)

The awards recognize exceptional academic performance, research, and commitment to advancing energy management and sustainability. These achievements reflect SOEE's commitment to nurturing future-ready professionals equipped with the technical knowledge, managerial expertise, and innovative mindset required to lead the global transition towards sustainable and low-carbon energy systems.

The University congratulates the award recipients on this well-deserved recognition and wishes them continued success in their professional journey.

Career Services Achieves 98% Placement Success in 2025–26

The Placement Season 2025–26 marked another milestone for the Career Services Department, reaffirming NICMAR University's strong industry connect and commitment to developing future-ready professionals. Despite a placement cohort of 1,234 students, the University achieved an impressive 98% placement rate, with 1,209 students securing offers.

More than 170 organizations, including 40+ new recruiters, participated in the campus recruitment process across sectors such as Infrastructure, Real Estate, EPC, Manufacturing, Consultancy, and Project Management. The University recorded a Mean CTC of ₹9.68 LPA and a Median CTC of ₹8.72 LPA, reflecting continued recruiter confidence in NICMAR talent.

A key highlight of the season was NICMAR University's expansion into Singapore, where two students secured international internships, marking an important step towards strengthening global career opportunities.

Patron

Dr. Anil Agarwal

Vice Chancellor (I/c), NICMAR University, Pune

Advisor

Dr. Rahul Deshpande

Dean QA, NICMAR University, Pune

Editor

Dr. Amit Hiray

NICMAR University, Pune

Editor

Dr. Pallavi Nimbalwar

NICMAR University, Pune

Assistant Editor

Dr. B. Hemanth Sai Kalyan

NICMAR University, Pune

25/1, N.I.A. Post Office, Balewadi, Pune - 411 045, Maharashtra, India

IGBC Plaque

NICMAR University, Pune is Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Platinum Certified Green Campus

IGBC Certificate