The Chronicles

Monthly Newsletter of NICMAR University Pune

Nurturing Ideas and Shaping the Built Environment of Tomorrow!!

October 2025, Volume 3, No. 10

NICMAR University, Pune is committed to its vision of producing a well-rounded techno-management graduate ready to serve the Construction, Real Estate, Infrastructure and Projects (CRIP) sector. The entire NICMAR University, Pune Ecosystem is working tirelessly towards achieving that goal. The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) has taken a number of initiatives in that direction in the past two years. A few notable initiatives are highlighted below.

In the month of February 2025, the university approved its first Institutional Development Plan (IDP) which outlines the steps the university will be taking in the next 5 years to realize its vision and plan its further growth. The Institutional Development Plan preparation was a year-long exercise with consultations from all the relevant stakeholders, series of long meetings and workshops to collectively agree to set goals for the next 5 years. This plan will guide the university to stay committed on the path and will provide direction in terms of actions to be taken in the next 5 years. As the IDP would guide us towards the vision, understanding stakeholder expectations is equally important as we progress. The Team IQAC has created a new comprehensive feedback policy to collect feedback from students, parents, alumni, employers, faculty and staff members so as to understand their satisfaction levels and expectations with respect to the overall functioning of the university (for example, teaching-learning process, availability of books in library, the support systems provided such as mentoring and counselling at the university, experience in the hostel stay, etc.). This feedback is very useful in finetuning the processes at the university and offer a better experience to the students.

Every year, the Team IQAC conducts academic and administration audits by internal as well as external experts. In the month of September 2025, a rigorous four–day audit was conducted to evaluate the university’s administration and governance processes, academic planning and delivery processes, student support systems, etc. to ascertain that we are fully aligned with the vision of the university. The audit reports provide an opportunity for improvement in the processes followed at the university, ultimately contributing to the growth of the university.

Team IQAC is spending a significant time and effort on preparing for various accreditations and rankings which we plan to achieve in the coming years. The University became an AACSB educational alliance member in the month of April 2025, which is the first step towards seeking the prestigious AACSB accreditation. Team IQAC is committed to continuous improvement of the processes at the university and leading the university towards achieving its vision of being a globally recognized institution of excellence.

Dr. Rahul Deshpande
warm regards,
Dr. Rahul Deshpande
Dean,
Quality Assurance
event-5-img1 event-5-img2
NICMAR University & Wrench Solutions Forge Education Partnership

NICMAR University, Pune, and Wrench Solutions have forged a strategic partnership to transform project management education. This collaboration will leverage Wrench's AI-powered SmartProject platform to bridge the gap between academia and industry. The initiative includes training for faculty, co-designed programs, and research projects, all aimed at creating a pipeline of skilled professionals ready for global opportunities. The partnership was formalized in a ceremony attended by leadership from both institutions, including CEO Mr. K. Varghese Daniel and Vice Chancellor Dr. Sushma Kulkarni, marking a committed step toward shaping the next generation of project leaders.

NICMAR University & Wrench Solutions Forge Education Partnership
VC Addresses Engineering Freshers at TAE
Vice Chancellor Presides as Chief Guest
Industry Expert Talk on Advances in Concrete Technology
Gender Sensitization Training Program
IQAC-Academic and Administrative Audit (Internal)
Guest Talk: Optimizing Logistics for Competitive Advantage
NBS Knowledge Series
Faculty/Staff Achievements & Recognition
VC Addresses Engineering Freshers at TAE

Dr. Sushma Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor of NICMAR University, presided as Chief Guest at the First Year Engineering Induction of Trinity Academy of Engineering (TAE). In her address, she emphasized the importance of building technical skills, cultivating innovation and entrepreneurship, leveraging AI, practicing sustainability, and developing resilience. She also commended TAE's leadership for creating a nurturing environment for students.

event-5-img1 event-5-img2 event-5-img3
Industry Expert Talk on Advances in Concrete Technology

The School of Construction, NICMAR University Pune organized an industry expert session on Wednesday 10th September 2025 at the main auditorium. The session was delivered by Shri. Yusuf Inamdar, CEO J. Kumar Defence and Aerospace Pvt. Ltd. The topic of the talk was “Advances in Concrete Technology”. The session was a part of the course Construction Methods and Technology. The expert covered crucial topics such as cement-less concrete, waterless concrete, blast resistant concrete, fire resistant concrete and use of fibres and polymers in concrete. The session was followed by a question and answer session wherein students asked various questions related to the modern trends in concrete technology. The program was well attended by the students and faculty members of School of Construction, NICMAR University, Pune.

event-5-img1 event-5-img2 event-5-img3
Gender Sensitization Training Program

NICMAR University Pune's Internal Committee for POSH organized a Gender Sensitization Training Program for all newly joined faculty and staff members on 10th September 2025. The program commenced with an inaugural address by Dr. (Mrs.) Sushma Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor, NICMAR. The resource person for Gender Sensitization Training Program was Mr. Harish Sadani, Senior Gender Right Professional, Co-founder and Executive Director, Men Against Violence and Abuse Mumbai. Mr. Harish Sadani conducted an interactive hands on workshop wherein, he helped the participants to identify the hidden societal barriers, perceptual biases and stereotypes which create obstacles for gender equality. Through an interactive session, the participants understood the POSH act provisions and importance of gender sensitization in organisations.

event-5-img2 event-5-img1 event-5-img1 event-5-img2 event-5-img2
IQAC-Academic and Administrative Audit (Internal)

The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) conducted an Internal Academic and Administrative Audit during 15th -18th September, 2025 at NICMAR University, Pune, with the objective of ensuring adherence to quality benchmarks and promoting continuous improvement. The audit covered both academic practices and administrative processes across schools and departments. It involved a structured self-assessment, peer review, and detailed interactions with deans, heads, faculty and staff members. The key focus areas included curriculum design & delivery, assessment methods, student support services, governance, and resource utilization. The audit findings highlighted strengths, identified areas for improvement, and offered actionable recommendations. The active involvement of Deans, portfolio heads, and audit team members contributed significantly to the success of the process.

event-5-img1 event-5-img2 event-5-img1 event-5-img2 event-5-img1 event-5-img2 event-5-img1 event-5-img2 event-5-img2
Guest Talk: Optimizing Logistics for Competitive Advantage

On 1st September, NBS MBA students attended an insightful guest talk by Mr. Anand Paranjape, Founder & Director, Exim Management Services. He emphasized that optimized logistics equals lower costs plus better service and highlighted emerging trends such as AI-driven route optimization, drone deliveries, and blockchain for transparency. Stressing the strategic role of logistics as a profit driver and customer loyalty enabler, he underlined the importance of the “4 Rights” — right product, right place, right time, and right cost. The session inspired students to view logistics as a vital force in shaping global business success.

event-5-img1 event-5-img2
NBS Knowledge Series

This September, NICMAR Business School (NBS) hosted a dynamic series of expert sessions, bringing industry leaders to our MBA students. These talks provided invaluable insights across logistics, organisational behaviour, finance, and startup culture, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world business practices. Here’s a glimpse of the key takeaways:

  • Logistics as a Strategic Powerhouse: Mr. Anand Paranjape, Founder & Director, Exim Management Services, reframed logistics from a backend function to a core profit driver, highlighting the impact of AI, drones, and blockchain on achieving the "4 Rights" of supply chain management.
  • Building Agile Organizations: Ms. Richa Mehta, an experienced OD Consultant and Ms. Natasha Singh, VP – People and Culture, EMOTORAD, Pune, in their respective sessions, emphasized the critical role of Organizational Development (OD) and Organisational culture. Students learned how OD interventions and a strong, people-centric culture are essential for shaping adaptable organizations and driving success in both established firms and dynamic start-ups like EMOTORAD.
  • Mastering Financial Literacy: The importance of financial acumen was reinforced through two key sessions. Mr. Sumedh Gupte demonstrated how the BSMART app can be a powerful tool for staying updated on economic trends, while, a freelance financial market trainer, Mr. Purv Shah’s Financial Market Simulation provided a hands-on arena for students to test investment strategies and understand risk management.

Collectively, these sessions equipped NBS students with a holistic view of the modern business landscape, underscoring the interconnectedness of operational efficiency, human capital, financial savvy, and strategic innovation. The Knowledge Series successfully inspired students to apply these diverse insights toward becoming the business leaders of tomorrow.

event-5-img1 event-5-img2 event-5-img3 event-5-img3 event-5-img3 event-5-img3 event-5-img3
Faculty/Staff Achievements & Recognition

Dr. Pradeepta Kumar Samanta was invited as a Guest of Honour at the International Conference on Intelligent and Sustainable Innovations (ICISI 2025) held on 9th and 10th September 2025, organised by Dr. Moonje Institute of Management and Computer Studies, Nashik. Dr. Samanta also Chaired a Technical Session on “Infrastructure Policy and Society”. The conference fostered knowledge exchange, industry-academia collaboration, and future-ready strategies, equipping students and professionals with tools to drive innovation, sustainability and impactful growth.
Dr. Vijendra Kumar, esteemed faculty member, has been recognised among the Top 2% of Scientists worldwide by Elsevier and Stanford University. This prestigious recognition highlights Dr. Kumar’s impactful contributions in the fields of flood forecasting, water resources engineering, hydrological modelling, and the application of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in civil engineering.

event-5-img1 event-5-img2
Vice Chancellor Presides as Chief Guest

Dr. Sushma Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor of NICMAR University, Pune, served as Chief Guest and Resource Person for the valedictory function of a one-week Online Faculty Development Program (FDP). The FDP, titled “Strategic Pathways to Research & Innovation,” was organized by Karmaveer Adv. Baburao Ganpatrao Thakare College of Engineering, Nashik, from September 1-5, 2025. Dr. Kulkarni delivered a keynote address on “Outcome-Based Education” and commended the organizers for a productive program fostering academic excellence and innovation.

event-5-img1 event-5-img2
×
Exploring the Future of Railways

As part of the Transportation Engineering-II course, B.Tech Civil Engineering students visited the Indian Railways Institute of Civil Engineering (IRICEN), Pune on 13th September 2025. Established in 1959, IRICEN is a premier training institute of Indian Railways, dedicated to advancing knowledge in railway civil engineering. During the visit, students gained valuable insights into railway curves, turnouts, superelevation, permanent way components, fixtures, points and crossings, signalling systems, and railway bridges. They also explored advanced geotechnical and material testing laboratories, linking classroom concepts to real-world practices. A highlight of the visit was the tour of IRICEN’s award-winning green building, the only institutional building in India to achieve a 5-star GRIHA rating, an IBC award for innovation, and a Platinum LEED certification. The visit proved to be a rich learning experience, helping students connect theoretical knowledge with practical railway engineering applications while also inspiring them with sustainable design practices.

Exploring Water, Power, and Heritage

Third-year Civil Engineering students from NICMAR University undertook a study tour to Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, to complement their Hydrology coursework. The tour focused on two major engineering feats: the Sardar Sarovar Dam, where they studied reservoir operations, hydropower, and water management, and the Statue of Unity, where they examined its structural and seismic design. This hands-on experience effectively connected academic theory with real-world applications in dam engineering and large-scale project execution, while also incorporating cultural elements.

Social Immersion: Learning Sustainability

On 3rd and 4th September, NBS students from the MBA, IMBA, and FBE programs visited Nisargamitra, an organic farm in Badlapur, as part of the Social Immersion initiative. The farm, nurtured by Krishibhushan Rajendra Bhat, reflects his dedication to sustainable and organic farming practices. Students gained hands-on exposure to eco-friendly farming, learning about soil health, biodiversity, and natural pest control methods. The interaction highlighted both the challenges and rewards of organic farming, fostering a deeper appreciation for sustainable agriculture and its role in healthier communities and ecosystems.

Industry Visit

On 23rd September, Supply Chain students of NBS visited the PCP2 and IPDC plants at Cummins Mega Site, Phaltan, gaining firsthand exposure to modern supply chain practices. The visit began with an insightful session on end-to-end supply chain management, sustainability, and Industry 4.0, led by Mr. Pankaj Bale and Mr. Yogesh Antad, under the guidance of Mr. Rakesh Bhosale, Director – Operations & Supply Chain. Students also explored the aftertreatment system manufacturing at PCP2 and the parts distribution and logistics operations at IPDC. The visit offered impactful learning, combining theory with real-world practice.

Site Visit to RMC Plant and Pipe Manufacturing Unit at Chakan

The B.Tech Civil Engineering students of the School of Engineering got a real taste of industry on 19th September 2025 during their site visit to the RMC Plant and Pipe Manufacturing Unit at Chakan. Guided by site engineers and QA/QC staff, the students explored aggregate crushing, concrete batching and mixing, bituminous hot mix preparation, and even the complete pipe manufacturing process. From observing slump tests and cube casting in the QA/QC lab to watching reinforcement placement and pipe finishing on the shop floor, every step brought classroom concepts to life. The visit not only enhanced their understanding of concrete technology and construction materials but also underscored the importance of safety, quality control, and sustainable practices in modern infrastructure. Such experiential learning initiatives bridge the gap between theory and practice, leaving students better prepared for the challenges of the construction industry.

The month of September saw a continuing momentum with PPO confirmation from Godrej Properties & Saint Gobain. Also, the Campus Placements for the 2024-26 batch commenced on a high note with lead recruiters showing their esteemed presence in the opening season. We were glad to host ExxonMobil, Hilti India, Bechtel, KPMG, Deloitte, EY, CRISIL, CBRE South Asia Pvt Ltd, Shapoorji Pallonji, , Vconstruct,Alvarez and Marsal, ZS Associates, Century Real Estate Holdings, KENT PLC, Mahindra Lifespaces etc.

Patron

Dr. Mrs. Sushma S. Kulkarni

Vice Chancellor, NICMAR University, Pune

Advisor

Dr. Rahul Deshpande

Dean QA, NICMAR University, Pune

Editor

Dr. Vandana Bhavsar

Associate Professor, NICMAR University, Pune

Editor

Dr. Soumi Rai

Associate Professor, NICMAR University, Pune

Assistant Editor

Dr. Shripada Patil

Assistant Professor, NICMAR University, Pune

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