Department of Renewable Energy, STRM celebrates National Renewable Energy Day through expert talks, student presentations, and green entrepreneurship insights

The Department of Renewable Energy (B.Voc), School of Tribal Resource Management (STRM), KISS-DU observed Indian Akshay Urja Diwas, also known as National Renewable Energy Day, on August 20, 2026. The programme was organised around the national vision of Viksit Bharat and highlighted the growing importance of renewable energy, sustainability, innovation, and community-centred development.

The event was organised in collaboration with the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), Centre for Indigenous Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE), and Centre for the Study of Indigenous Peoples Across the Globe (CSIPG).

Delivering the introductory address, Dr. Somnath Mishra, Head of the Department of Renewable Energy, set the context for the observance and underlined the relevance of clean energy education in nation-building. The resource person and Chief Guest, Dr. Monalisha Mishra, Head, Department of Geography, spoke on the interconnections among geography, environmental sustainability, and resource management. She also explained the role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial mapping in strengthening renewable energy infrastructure.

Guest of Honour Dr. Arpana Premi Lina Oraon, Dean, STRM, shared observations from her exposure to renewable energy practices in Europe and reflected on international approaches that may inspire sustainable solutions in India. The academic discussions were further enriched by Dr. Sanjeeta Devi, Assistant Professor, who spoke on the economic dimensions of renewable energy, and Dr. Kamala Kant Das, Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship and Development, who encouraged students to explore green entrepreneurship opportunities in the clean energy sector.

A student presentation session formed an important part of the celebration, with contributions from Mr. Ram Chandra Marandi, Miss Priti Majhi, Miss Sapna Oram, Mr. Dibya Oram, and Miss Barsa Rani Nayak. Their presentations reflected student engagement with renewable energy awareness, sustainability, and innovation-led development.

The programme concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks by Mr. Dibya Oram, who expressed gratitude to the university leadership, guest speakers, collaborating centres, faculty members, students, and participants for making the observance meaningful and successful.