
Activity Dates: 29.09.2025
Type of Activity: Field Studies
Organizing Department: Department of Microbiology
Program Coordinators: Dr. Rasika R. Jane, Dr. A. A. Gawali, Prof. K. D. Nagpure, Prof. V. N. Thakare
Head of the Department: Dr. R. C. Maggirwar
External Collaborator (if any): -
Objectives:
No of Beneficieries: 50
Classes Involved: B.Sc-III Year Microbiology & Biotechnology students
Venue of the Activity: NEERI, Nagpur
Activity Report:
On 29th September 2025, a group of B.Sc. III Year students specializing in Microbiology & Biotechnology, along with their teaching staff, will embark on an educational visit to the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) in Nagpur. NEERI, a premier research institute under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), specializes in environmental management, sustainable technologies, and pollution control. This visit will provide students with invaluable insights into how biotechnology and microbiology are leveraged to address pressing environmental challenges.
The teaching staff, including Dr. Rasika R. Jane, Dr. Ashruta A. Gawali, Prof. Komal D. Nagpure, and Prof. Vishakha N. Thakre, will guide the students through the day, ensuring that the learning experience aligns with their academic curriculum. The visit will feature a tour of research laboratories, hands-on workshops, and interactive sessions with NEERI scientists, focusing on the application of biotechnological processes like bioremediation, microbial waste treatment, and pollution control.
By the end of the day, students will gain practical knowledge of environmental monitoring techniques and deepen their understanding of the interdisciplinary role of microbiology and biotechnology in sustainable environmental solutions. This visit is aimed at inspiring students to consider future career opportunities or research in the field of environmental biotechnology.
Introduction:
The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) in Nagpur is one of the premier institutes in India dedicated to the research and development of environmental engineering, pollution control, and sustainable development practices. NEERI conducts cutting-edge research in diverse areas such as air and water quality management, waste treatment, and environmental biotechnology. The institute is well-known for its scientific contributions towards solving critical environmental challenges.
This educational visit aims to provide students of Microbiology and Biotechnology with the opportunity to explore the intersection of environmental science and biotechnology. Students will gain insights into how biotechnological innovations can be applied to address environmental issues such as pollution control, waste treatment, and sustainability. The visit will also enhance their understanding of the practical applications of microbiology and biotechnology in environmental conservation.
Objectives:
The primary objectives of the visit are:
1. To explore the role of biotechnology and microbiology in environmental engineering: Students will learn about the application of biotechnological processes in solving environmental issues, including bioremediation, waste treatment, and pollution control.
2. To provide exposure to cutting-edge research and technologies: Students will get an overview of NEERI’s research on microbial technologies for environmental management, including the development of biofilters, bioreactors, and other bio-based systems.
3. To understand the interdisciplinary approach to solving environmental problems: The visit will highlight how various fields, including microbiology, biotechnology, and environmental engineering, work together to address global challenges such as water pollution, waste management, and climate change.
4. To offer hands-on experience and practical knowledge: Students will participate in workshops and demonstrations on environmental monitoring, including microbial analysis and water quality testing techniques used in real-world environmental applications.
5. To encourage academic and professional networking: Students will have the opportunity to interact with experts and researchers, gaining insights into careers in environmental biotechnology and sustainable development
Pre-Visit Preparations:
• Safety Guidelines: Ensure that all students are briefed on safety protocols, especially regarding lab tours and the use of any environmental testing equipment.
• Student Preparation: Encourage students to prepare questions or topics they wish to learn more about during the visit, especially related to their coursework in environmental science.
• Permission Slips: Obtain consent forms from students and staff, if necessary, to ensure all participants have the appropriate permissions for the visit.
Outcomes:
At the end of the visit, students are expected to:
1. Understand the integration of microbiology and biotechnology with environmental science: Students will be able to explain how microorganisms and biotechnological processes are harnessed for environmental conservation, pollution control, and waste management.
2. Gain practical knowledge of environmental monitoring techniques: Students will learn about various methods and tools used in environmental analysis, including water quality testing, air pollution monitoring, and bioremediation.
3. Familiarity with current environmental issues: Students will have a clearer understanding of the major environmental challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and the role of biotechnology in mitigating these problems.
4. Enhance problem-solving skills in environmental management: Students will be encouraged to think critically about environmental issues and develop solutions using microbiological and biotechnological approaches.
5. Inspiration for future research and career paths: Exposure to real-world applications of their field of study will inspire students to consider further research or career opportunities in environmental biotechnology, microbiology, or sustainability.
Detailed Schedule:
Sr. No. Date Time Schedule
1 7th October, 2025 7.00 am Reporting at College Gate Number 1
7.30 am Departure by Bus to NEERI, Nagpur
9.00 am Karanja
(Breakfast as per availability on Time which will be provided by Department)
9.30 am Departure from Karanja
11.00 am – 1.30 pm Visit to Various Departments at NEERI, Nagpur
1.30 pm – 2.30 pm Lunch
(Students need to carry own lunch box, Lunch will not be provided by Department)
2.30 pm – 3.30 pm Interaction with Scientists
3.30 pm Departure for Return Journey
6.00 pm Arrival at College Campus
Journey End
Post-Visit Activities:
1. Report/Reflection Assignment: Students will write a report on their experience, discussing the role of biotechnology in environmental management, highlighting key takeaways from the workshop and research facility tour. No. of Beneficiers involved in visit are 50 students.
This visit to NEERI Nagpur will offer the B.Sc. III Year students of Microbiology & Biotechnology a rich learning experience, providing them with hands-on exposure to how their field of study is applied to real-world environmental challenges. The visit will not only help bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application but also inspire students to think critically about how they can contribute to sustainability and environmental protection in their future careers.
Conclusion:
This visit will provide a comprehensive learning experience that will enrich students' academic journey, foster critical thinking, and motivate them to contribute to environmental sustainability in their professional careers. The exposure to cutting-edge research and technologies at NEERI will undoubtedly empower them to take on environmental challenges with confidence and expertise in the future.
Outcomes:
Photos:
![]() Educational visit to NEERI, Nagpur | ![]() Strengthening our scientific knowledge at NEERI, Nagpur |
![]() Learning how science protects the environment | ![]() Step towards a greener future at NEERI |
![]() Moments from the NEERI campus | ![]() Exploring Environmental science at NEERI |
Attendance Sheet:
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