UNNAT MAHARASHTRA ABHIYAN (2022–23)

About the Programme:

With the objective of fostering research aptitude among students and addressing local community issues through scientific approaches, the IIT Bombay – Unnat Maharashtra Abhiyan (UMA) Cell initiated the programme “Aaple Prashn Aaple Vidnyan” from the academic year 2022–23. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-life problem-solving by encouraging students to undertake case studies based on local issues. It also supports local administration by providing practical and research-based solutions.

The programme focuses on enhancing students’ analytical thinking, research skills, and community engagement through workshops, interactive sessions, and project-based learning aligned with the syllabus of the University of Mumbai. The college actively participated in UMA activities during the academic year 2022–23.

Programmes / Activities:

1. Introductory Workshop

An introductory workshop on “Case Study Course in Higher Education of Mumbai University” was organized by the Unnat Maharashtra Abhiyan (UMA) Cell, IIT Bombay at S.P. Hegshetye College, S.M. Joshi Vidyaniketan, Mirjole, Ratnagiri on 28th June 2022. The workshop aimed to create awareness among faculty members about research-oriented teaching and the integration of case study methodology into the university curriculum. Faculty members—Mr. Guruprasad E. Ghadi (Geography), Mr. Hrishikesh R. Rane (Management Studies), and Mr. Sushant P. Lomate (Chemistry)—actively participated in the programme.

2. Methodology Workshop for the Case Study-Based Elective Course

A methodology workshop for the case study-based elective course under “Aaple Prashn Aaple Vidnyan” was organized by the Unnat Maharashtra Abhiyan (UMA) Cell, IIT Bombay at Gogate Jogalekar College, Ratnagiri on 17th September 2022. The workshop focused on research methodologies for project work under the UMA initiative. Three faculty members from Shri S. H. Kelkar College, Devgad—Mr. Guruprasad Ghadi, Mr. Hrishikesh R. Rane, and Mrs. Rashmi Hirlekar—participated in the programme. Mr. Milind Sohoni from IIT Bombay explained the implementation of regional case studies, research approaches, and the objectives set by the University of Mumbai. Coordinators from various colleges presented their proposed case studies, followed by discussions and guidance from Mr. Sohoni and Mrs. Priya Jadhav.

3. Interactive Discussion Session

An interactive discussion session on “आपले प्रश्न, आपले विज्ञान” was organized by the Unnat Maharashtra Abhiyan (UMA) Cell, IIT Bombay at the Library Hall of Devgad College on 19th July 2022. The session facilitated interaction among experts, faculty members, and students regarding research opportunities, case study components, and programme expectations. Mr. Parth Bapat discussed regional occupations and issues of the Konkan area, while Mr. Milind Sohoni highlighted higher education, employment challenges, and the need for job-oriented learning. Mr. Harshad Tulpule presented a case study on a cashew processing unit and introduced a biodiversity documentation platform. A total of 09 faculty members and 89 students participated in the session, which helped promote research awareness and encouraged participation in Avishkar and academic publications.

4. Presentation of Research Projects

During the academic year 2022–23, a total of 42 research projects were submitted from Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts. Out of these, 5 projects were contributed by Shri S. H. Kelkar College, Devgad.

Details of the Projects:

Out of the 42 projects, 16 were shortlisted for the final presentation. Among these, 2 projects from Shri S. H. Kelkar College were selected:

1. देवगड येथील मासेमारी पद्धतींचा तुलनात्मक अभ्यास
2. तारामुंबरी येथील कांदळवनातील बदल आणि लोकांचा दृष्टिकोन

These projects were presented at D. B. J. College, Chiplun on 17th March 2023 by students (Akash Parale, Mayuresh Tari, Bhargav Sarang) under the guidance of Mr. Guruprasad Ghadi. Both projects received seed funding of ₹4000 each.

Benefits:

• Enhances research aptitude and analytical thinking among students through real-life case studies.
• Bridges the gap between academic learning and practical problem-solving in local communities.
• Develops skills in data collection, fieldwork, and scientific analysis among students.
• Encourages active participation in research conventions such as Avishkar and promotes publication opportunities.
• Strengthens collaboration between students, faculty, and local administration.
• Promotes awareness of regional issues related to the environment, economy, and society.
• Improves communication, presentation, and teamwork skills among students.

Facilities:

The college provided the necessary financial support, infrastructure, and expert guidance to conduct field surveys, training programmes, and awareness initiatives under the UMA.

Achievements:

• Active participation of faculty members in workshops and training programmes organized by IIT Bombay under UMA.
• Successful organization of an interactive discussion session with the participation of 09 faculty members and 89 students.
• Submission of 5 research projects from the college out of 42 projects across three districts.
• Selection of 2 projects for final presentation at D. B. J. College, Chiplun.
• Receipt of seed funding of ₹4000 each for the two selected projects.
• Development of a research culture and increased student involvement in community-based studies.

Unnat Maharashtra Abhiyan Committee:

Coordinator: Prof. Guruprasad Ghadi
Co-Coordinator: Prof. Hrishikesh Rane

The Aaple Prashn Aaple Vidnyan initiative has significantly contributed to developing a research-oriented mindset among students and faculty. Through workshops, discussions, and project presentations, the programme successfully connected academic knowledge with real-world challenges. It has not only enriched students’ learning experiences but also encouraged them to actively contribute to community development.