CSIR-Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee, observed various awareness days under JIGYASA: Student-Scientist Connect Programme. CSIR-CBRI team of scientists and experts brainstormed on the various areas of science and introduced them to different aspects related to science and technology.

World Soil Day

At the Government Upper Primary School, Khanjarpur, Roorkee, on 5 December 2019 on the occasion of World Soil Day 2019, Dr Atul Kumar Agarwal presented a lecture on “Importance of Soil” and informed about the theme of World Soil Day 2019 — “Stop Soil Erosion, Save our Future”. He explained that the top-most fertile soil erodes or is contaminated due to various reasons such as erosion from strong wind/water flow, continuous cultivation without re-establishing soil nutrients, excessive deforestation weakening soil grip, increased pollution and chemical contamination, etc. This topsoil is essential for the growth of nutrients and the development of microorganisms that are essential for the fertility of the soil and healthy crop growth. This results in a decrease in soil fertility. 

He also discussed soil conservation measures such as strengthening soil through roots by plantation of deep-root trees, prohibition of plastic, prevention of soil pollution from industrial or chemical wastes, maintaining fertility of soil with green manure, limited use of chemical fertilizers, conservation of soil’s natural nutrients by crop rotation, terrace farming on hilly areas, etc. 

The students pledged to plant trees for environment protection, pollution control, soil conservation, water conservation, avoiding plastic and expressed their commitment to spreading this message to all. 

Students were also informed about environment-friendly building materials, waste-to-value added products and technologies for rural India developed by CSIR-CBRI, Roorkee. Students discussed career opportunities at CSIR in various areas of science. 

Vijay Diwas

CSIR-CBRI scientists visited J.P. International School, Landhora, on 14 December 2019. A moment of silence was observed to pay tribute to the martyrs of the 1971 War and salute their courage, valour and martyrdom, to commemorate Vijay Diwas (observed on 16 December nationwide). 

Dr Atul Kumar Agarwal presented a lecture on “Education, Science & Development” and said that education, science and development are all interdependent. He said that the purpose of education is not to remember facts but to train the intellect to be able to think. He inspired the students with the life and works of famous scientists such as Einstein, Henry Ford, Madam Curie, Edison, C.V. Raman, Newton and A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Further, he also informed about the glorious history and achievements of CSIR and CBRI.