I won the first prize at the Rajya Stariya Bal Vaigyanik Pradarshini 2024 for the exhibit 'Eco-Logs: Transforming Cremations with Sustainable Innovations' under sub-theme 'LiFE -Lifestyle for Environment'. I received a certificate and prize money of Rs 5100/. This state-level exhibition was organised from 29th Nov to 1st Dec by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), UT Chandigarh. This exhibition was a precursor to the National Science Exhibition organised annually by the NCERT, Ministry of Education, Govt of India (Rashtriya Bal Vaigyanik Pradarshini 2024), to be held sometime next year, with the theme 'Science and Technology for the Society.'
The Eco-Logs initiative addresses municipal waste management challenges posed by cow dung and coconut shell waste, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional wood in cremations addressing a significant challenge in India's urban landscape. With a scientific foundation rooted in environmental science, the logs boast enhanced calorific value and structural integrity, crucial for efficient combustion. Extensive research and lab testing at Thapar Technology Centre validate their effectiveness, showcasing potential as a scalable, eco-friendly solution. This innovation aligns with circular economy principles, providing a viable and resource-efficient option for crematoriums and waste management facilities, mitigating environmental impact and saving trees while maintaining a cultural sensitivity.
Taking an enterprising lead, teaming up with my school students, we have raised funds to set up a model at the Mohali Gaushala, where Ecologs are manufactured and supplied to the nearby crematorium. Inspired by the success, we students are all prepared to set up another Ecolog-making machine in some Gaushala in Chandigarh. We are working on the modalities.
Mr Surinder Dahiya, Director SCERT, informed, "This State Exhibition was a precursor to the Rashtriya Bal Vaigyanik Pradarshini 2024, to be held sometime next year, with the theme 'Science and Technology for the Society'. Students participated in two categories -Elementary for 6th-8th and Secondary for Classes 9th-12th under five sub-themes. In the first stage, 570 Exhibits were received from 129 Schools scrutinised from 17th -20th Oct 2023. 114 Models from 65 schools were shortlisted for the final State Exhibition. Certificates and cash prizes of Rs 5100/-, Rs 3100/-, and Rs 2100/- were awarded to the first, second, and third prize winners, respectively."
Tribune 3rd Dec 2023
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