The Chronicles

ICC Training Program

A Full-day training program for all members of ICC from Pune, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi Campuses of NICMAR was organized on 15th April 2026 at NICMAR University Pune. The session aimed to enhance awareness and understanding of appropriate workplace conduct under the POSH framework. It provided participants with a clear understanding of what constitutes sexual harassment, enabling them to identify inappropriate behaviours and respond appropriately.

During the session, participants were sensitized to identify various forms of inappropriate behaviour, including verbal, non-verbal, and physical actions that may amount to sexual harassment. Real-life scenarios and case-based discussions were used to enhance understanding and enable participants to identify subtle as well as explicit forms of misconduct. Detailed guidance was provided on the reporting mechanisms, roles and responsibilities of ICC members, and the proper procedures to be followed while handling complaints in a fair, confidential, and unbiased manner. Overall, the session was interactive and informative, equipping participants with the knowledge and confidence to recognize, address, and report incidents of sexual harassment, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and respectful workplace culture.

Guest Session on Case studies on BIM for MEP Projects

The School of Project Management of NICMAR University Pune recently organized a guest lecture on 4th April 2026 on the topic ‘Case studies on BIM for MEP Projects’ for their MBA APM students, as a part of their elective subject ‘BIM for MEP Projects’.

The speaker for the session, Mr. Vishnu Melwani (Senior Engineer - WSP) briefed the students on the various phases of MEP design. The speaker shared insights on important topics such as BIM workflow, BIM execution plan, clash detection and BIM 360, among others. The speaker also demonstrated real life case studies on application of BIM for managing MEP projects.

Drone Workshop on Applications in Construction

The School of Construction at NICMAR University Pune successfully organized a comprehensive Drone Workshop on Applications in Construction from 20 February to 04 April 2026, benefiting a total of 525 students. Conducted in multiple batches, the workshop featured expert-led sessions by Mr. Sanjay Rajani, Founder of Samika Systems.

The programme provided participants with a strong foundation in drone technology, covering key aspects such as fundamentals of drone operations, regulatory frameworks, and practical applications in the construction industry. Students gained hands-on exposure through live demonstrations, data acquisition techniques, and software-based analysis tools. The workshop emphasized real-world applications including site surveying, progress monitoring, infrastructure inspection, and data-driven project analytics. This initiative offered valuable industry-oriented learning and enhanced students’ understanding of emerging digital technologies, reinforcing their readiness for technology-driven construction management practices.

Workshop on Digital Quality Control using digiQC Software

The School of Construction at NICMAR University Pune conducted an insightful workshop on “Digital Quality Control using digiQC Software” for first-year MBA-ACM students on 10 April 2026. The session was led by Mr. Sumant Kachru, CEO of digiQC, and Mr. Jigar Hathiwala, Co-Founder and Product Head, digiQC.

The workshop provided a comprehensive overview of digiQC’s features, followed by hands-on training on its application for inspection and quality control in construction projects. Students actively engaged with the software, collectively conducting over 4,000 inspections and raising more than 3,000 instructions using the digiQC mobile app. The session successfully highlighted the importance of digital transformation in improving productivity and quality in construction practices. The workshop was coordinated by Dr. Nilesh Patil and aligned with the Construction Quality Management course for MBA-ACM students.

Afcons’ Lean Journey: Insights into Transforming Construction Productivity

The School of Real Estate and Facilities Management at NICMAR University, Pune, organized an insightful guest talk on “Afcons’ Lean Journey” on 02 April 2026. The session was delivered by Mr. Yadhnesh Udas, Manager – Quality Excellence Cell at Afcons Infrastructure, Mumbai, who shared practical perspectives on the adoption of lean construction practices in large-scale infrastructure projects. During the session, Mr. Udas highlighted how lean methodologies are increasingly becoming essential for improving productivity and efficiency in construction. He explained the integration of key lean principles at Afcons, with a particular focus on the Last Planner System (LPS), which enables better planning, coordination, and workflow reliability. The talk effectively bridged academic concepts with industry practices, enriching the understanding of students enrolled in the course.

Guest Session on "Selection and performance of Electrical components for MEP Projects"

The School of Project Management of NICMAR University Pune recently organized a guest lecture on 26th March 2026 on the topic ‘Selection and performance of Electrical components for MEP Projects’ for their MBA APM students, as a part of their elective subject ‘Management of MEP Projects’. The speaker for the session, Mr. Aniruddha Dahiwele (General Manager - MEP, Prestige Estate Projects Ltd.) briefed the students on the fundamentals of electrical systems within buildings. The speaker shared insights on important topics such as compliances for electrical systems and various sustainable practices. The speaker also presented a case study on selection of transformer and DG set for a high-rise residential building project. The Q&A session was quite useful in clearing the doubts of the participants.

A Three-Day Workshop on LCA Skill Enhancement

The School of Energy & Environment (SOEE), NICMAR University Pune, successfully organized a three-day Skill Enhancement Workshop on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for students, faculty, and industry professionals. The workshop featured eminent experts from academia and industry who shared insights on LCA methodology, ESG, Scope 1–2–3 emissions, Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Product Carbon Footprint, eco-design, circular economy, and practical applications in construction and infrastructure projects.

The event was graced by the Chief Guest Dr. Ravindra Joshi, Engineering Director (Plant), Pan Gulf Technologies, Pune, who highlighted the importance of LCA in advancing sustainable development and low-carbon built environments. Interactive sessions and hands-on training using tools such as One Click LCA enriched participants’ practical understanding.

Across the three days, participants explored lifecycle thinking, supply chain impacts, uncertainty analysis, and emerging industry trends, gaining valuable insights into how data-driven decision-making can shape sustainable practices. The workshop reinforced the understanding that sustainability must balance environmental responsibility, economic feasibility, and practical implementation, further strengthening SOEE’s role as a hub for sustainability-focused education and research.

MCon Rasayan Meritorious Cash Award Distribution Ceremony

NICMAR University Pune organized the MCON Rasayan Meritorious Cash Award Distribution Ceremony as part of an MoU-driven collaborative initiative between the School of Energy & Environment (SOEE), the School of Construction, and MCON Rasayan Industries, Mumbai.

The awards were presented by Mr. Nandan Pradhan, Executive Director, MCON Rasayan India Ltd., in recognition of outstanding academic achievement in the fields of Construction Management and Environmental Sustainability.

The recipients for this year were:

• Shrisha Sanjay Gujar – MBA Environmental Sustainability (ENS 2024–26)
• Atharva Chandrakant Gaikwad – MBA Advanced Construction Management (ACM 2024–26)

The initiative reflects the shared commitment of NICMAR University and MCON Rasayan Industries toward encouraging academic excellence and supporting the next generation of professionals in construction and sustainability.

Guest Lecture on Sustainable Construction Materials and Introduction to AI/ML Applications

NICMAR University, Pune, School of Engineering, organized a guest lecture on “Sustainable Construction Materials and Introduction to AI/ML Applications” on 24 April 2026 for first-year B.Tech. students. The session was delivered by Dr. T. Palanisamy, Associate Professor at NIT Karnataka, Surathkal, who provided valuable insights into fundamental structural engineering concepts such as beam-column behaviour, sagging and hogging moments, and design philosophies, while also introducing the significance of sustainable construction materials in modern practice. He further highlighted the growing role of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in civil engineering, particularly in structural health monitoring and defect detection through image-based analysis. The lecture effectively bridged theoretical knowledge with practical and emerging industry applications, making it highly informative and engaging for students.

Pre-PhD Seminar Conducted by NICMAR Doctoral School

On 24 April 2026, the NICMAR Doctoral School (NDS), NICMAR University Pune, organized the pre-PhD seminar presentation of Ms. Swati Sinha, the first PhD scholar from the School of Energy & Environment (SOEE). Conducted on campus, the seminar witnessed the participation of nearly 50 attendees, including research scholars, students, professors, deans, and SRAC members, reflecting the University’s commitment to research and academic excellence.

Ms. Sinha presented her research proposal titled “Design and Development of Sustainable Construction Material: A Circular Economy Approach.” Her study focuses on the use of Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEB) as sustainable building materials aligned with circular economy principles. The research emphasizes resource-efficient construction practices, lifecycle assessment, waste minimization, and regenerative design approaches for sustainable built environments.

The seminar was presided over by the Vice Chancellor, external experts, deans, and SRAC members, and concluded with an engaging academic discussion and valuable feedback from the panel and participants.

Faculty/Staff Achievements & Recognition

Expert Talk on “Beyond Carbon: Introducing LCA Through Circular Economy and Social Lens,”

Dr. Sudarshan J.S., Programme Head, School of Energy & Environment (SOEE), NICMAR University Pune, delivered an expert talk titled “Beyond Carbon: Introducing LCA Through Circular Economy and Social Lens” during the Online Five-Day Faculty Development Programme on Integrated Green Construction and Life Cycle Assessment held on 21 April 2026.

The programme was organized by the Department of Civil Engineering, Jyothy Engineering College (Autonomous), Kerala. During the session, Dr. Sudarshan emphasized the importance of moving beyond carbon-focused sustainability metrics and adopting broader life cycle thinking that integrates circular economy principles and social sustainability dimensions.

The talk contributed to engaging academic discussions on green construction practices, sustainable research approaches, and the evolving role of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in impactful decision-making and practice.

SOEE Bids Farewell to Its Second Batch

The School of Energy & Environment (SOEE), NICMAR University Pune, bid a heartfelt farewell to its second batch of students as they marked their final day on campus. The occasion celebrated not only academic accomplishments but also the friendships, experiences, leadership qualities, and personal growth that defined their journey at the University.

Throughout their time at SOEE, students engaged in collaborative learning, meaningful projects, and enriching interactions with faculty and peers, shaping both their professional outlook and personal values. The farewell served as a moment of gratitude, reflection, and celebration as students prepared to step forward with purpose and contribute towards a more sustainable future.

The event concluded on an emotional and inspiring note, reminding students that the end of their academic journey marks the beginning of applying their knowledge and experiences in the real world.