Srinagar, Nov 10: A week-long workshop and exhibition titled “Solar Energy Technologies & Applications (SETA-2025)” began at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Monday, focusing on research, innovation, and practical applications of solar energy technologies.
The event is being organized under the patronage of Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, Director, NIT Srinagar, with Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir, Dean (Research & Consultancy), and Prof. Atikur Rehman, Registrar, serving as co-patrons.
Dr. Yashwant Mehta, Associate Professor, Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department, is the Secretary of the event, while Dr. Asadur Rahman, Assistant Professor, Electrical Engineering Department, is the Convener, and Dr. Pankaj Kumar, Assistant Professor from the same department, is the Coordinator.
The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir (In-charge Director, NIT Srinagar), while Er. Bashir Ahmad, Managing Director of JK Green Technologies and former MD of JKPCL and Secretary (Technical), JKPDD, was the Guest of Honour on the occasion.
In her inaugural address, Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir emphasized the importance of integrating modern solar technologies with real-time monitoring systems.
“Such workshops are the need of the hour to bridge the gap between academia and industry. The focus should be on operation and maintenance, data-driven strategies, and regular inspections to enhance system efficiency,” she said.
Prof. Roohie further highlighted the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT) in improving the performance and sustainability of solar power systems.
Delivering the keynote address, Er. Bashir Ahmad underlined the growing importance of green technologies in addressing energy security and climate challenges.
“Renewable energy, particularly solar, is no longer an alternative but a necessity for sustainable development. Collaborative research and local innovations will drive the next phase of energy transition in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Dr. Asadur Rahman, Convener of SETA-2025, said that the workshop aims to provide participants with a deeper understanding of solar energy technologies, from fundamental principles to advanced applications.
He said these sessions will cover system design, grid integration, energy storage, and smart monitoring solutions to help participants align academic learning with industrial practices.
Dr. Iqra Altaf also spoke on the occasion, expressing gratitude to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for sponsoring the workshop. She lauded NIT Srinagar’s efforts in organizing events that connect students and researchers with emerging technologies and national development goals.
The event brought together faculty members, researchers, and students from multiple disciplines to explore advancements in renewable energy and sustainable technologies.
The workshop is being sponsored by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and features interactive sessions, technical demonstrations, and an exhibition showcasing innovative solar energy applications designed by students and research scholars.
A formal vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Pankaj Kumar, followed by a visit to the solar energy exhibition, where various working models and stalls were displayed.
Student coordinators Sahil Kumar, Shivam Singh (B.Tech, Electrical Engineering), and Ahraz Hassan Moon (Ph.D. Scholar, Electrical Engineering) are leading the organizing team of SETA-2025.
The SETA-2025 initiative forms part of NIT Srinagar’s broader mission to promote renewable energy research, capacity building, and support India’s vision for a sustainable, energy-efficient future.