Climate Action Takes Center Stage at Sri Sri University as the ‘Solar Man of India’ Inspires a New Generation

 

In an era when climate change is no longer a distant concern but a reality shaping our everyday lives, educational institutions have a crucial role to play in creating awareness and inspiring action. Keeping this responsibility at the forefront, the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET) at Sri Sri University recently hosted a thought-provoking programme titled “Climate Satyagraha” bringing students, faculty members and sustainability advocates together under a common mission building a greener future. The highlight of the event was the presence of Prof. Chetan Singh Solanki, former Professor at IIT Bombay and popularly known as the “Solar Man of India.” Renowned for his nationwide efforts to promote renewable energy and sustainable living, Prof. Solanki has become a leading voice in the  climate action movement of India. The programme witnessed the participation of distinguished academicians, including Prof. Gopinath Palai, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology and Prof. Kesari Singh, Dean of Research & Development and Academic Affairs, who shared the dais with the esteemed guest speaker.

A Powerful Message for a Sustainable Future

Addressing a packed audience, Prof. Solanki spoke passionately about the growing challenges posed by climate change and the urgent need for both individual and collective action. Rather than viewing climate change as a problem for governments alone, he encouraged students to recognize their own power to make a difference through everyday choices. Drawing from his inspiring initiatives such as the Energy Swaraj Movement and Climate Satyagraha, he emphasized the importance of conscious living, responsible energy consumption and sustainable habits.

His message was simple yet impactful: meaningful change begins with individuals who are willing to rethink their lifestyles and reduce their environmental footprint. The interaction resonated strongly with students, many of whom were inspired by his vision of an energy-independent and environmentally responsible society.

A Landmark Association with Sri Sri University

One of the most significant moments of the event was the announcement of Prof. Chetan Singh Solanki's appointment as Honorary Professor in Energy and Climate Change at Sri Sri University. This prestigious appointment marks an important step in the ongoing commitment of Sri Sri University to advancing education and community outreach in the fields like renewable energy, sustainability and climate action. The collaboration is expected to strengthen academic initiatives and create new opportunities for students and researchers interested in addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges of the world.

Collective Efforts Behind a Meaningful Initiative

The programme was convened by Dr. Satyajit Pattnaik, Associate Professor and Associate Dean (Student Affairs), while Dr. Prem Panigrahi, Head of the School of Core Engineering, served as the Co-convenor. The event was successfully organized with the support of a dedicated team comprising Dr. Pradipta Kumar Mishra, Mr. Jishan Akhtar and Ms. Saina Hota, whose efforts contributed to making the programme both informative and impactful.

Moving Forward with Purpose

As the event concluded, participants left with more than just knowledge, they carried a renewed sense of responsibility toward the environment and sustainable development. The Climate Satyagraha programme reflected the broader vision of Sri Sri University of integrating knowledge with consciousness, encouraging students not only to excel academically but also to become responsible global citizens. By hosting leaders and change makers like Prof. Chetan Singh Solanki, the university continues to inspire the next generation to take meaningful steps toward a clean, green and more sustainable future. In a world searching for climate solutions, initiatives like these remind us that real change begins with awareness and the courage to lead by example.