IIT Jodhpur hosts social outreach event to showcase initiatives to foster holistic development

NEW DELHI: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jodhpur hosted a social outreach event on August 1, 2023, during the foundation day celebration to foster holistic development in society. Anil Joshi, founder of the Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organization (HESCO) was the chief guest.

The event showcased various activities undertaken by IIT Jodhpur for social outreach including craft, design, and water activities among others.

The initiative named "KalaAnubhav," is a 3D Craftverse that blends tradition and technology. Supported by IIT Jodhpur and Jodhpur City Knowledge Innovation Foundation (JCKIF), this innovative platform empowers artisans from Rajasthan to showcase their traditional handicrafts to a broader audience using modern tools.

IIT Jodhpur and its initiatives

IIT Jodhpur has provided clean drinking water in rural and remote schools through its collaboration with the Jal Jeevan Mission under the ministry of jal shakti. The Centre for Sustainable Drinking Water Sources, with the support of the mission, works to strengthen capacity-building, outreach, research, and education in rural areas, the institute said.

Additionally, the institute has developed a Smart Graded Water Supply Grid within its campus, serving as a model for advanced water supply technologies and sustainable practices.

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IIT Jodhpur along with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-National Institute for Implementation Research on Non-Communicable Diseases (NIIRDC) conducted a study on indoor and ambient air quality in Jodhpur and developed a Novel CODE air steriliser that reduces the risks of airborne pathogen infections in indoor settings.

"Thar Design" is another initiative to study the Desert Ecosystem. Through pilot projects, the organisation joined hands with various institutes to create a comprehensive understanding of the desert's ecosystem.

The medical technologies programme at IIT Jodhpur, in collaboration with AIIMS Jodhpur, brings together doctors and engineers for co-mentoring and accelerating medical technology development.

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Beyond these initiatives, IIT Jodhpur regularly conducts Open House events, inviting school and college students, and the general public to witness technology and innovation firsthand. IIT Jodhpur also has been participating in Institute outreach activities across India, including Rajasthan, through product exhibitions, public lectures, workshops, and training sessions, empowering students and the public with knowledge and awareness.

The 'Sirohi Model Pilot Project,' ongoing since May 2019, has helped the communities, it said. IIT Jodhpur has conducted 12 AMR workshops in rural areas of Rajasthan for addressing the needs of the local communities.