Shoolini launches Bio-Innovation Centre with DST-PURSE support
The faculty, staff, and students of Shoolini University came together in a spirited celebration of Prerna Diwas, marking Founder-Chancellor Prof PK Khosla's birthday with meaningful events on the campus.
A major highlight was the inauguration of the DST-PURSE-supported Bio-Innovation Centre lab by Prof PK Khosla, Trustees Satish Anand and Ashok Anand, Pro Chancellor Vishal Anand, and Visiting Professor Vivek Atray. Shoolini University has become the first institution in Himachal Pradesh to receive support under the Promotion of University Research and Scientific Excellence (PURSE) scheme, which is awarded to institutions excelling in research. The newly inaugurated Bio Innovation Centre, equipped with advanced instruments worth ₹6 crore, enhances the university's capabilities in conducting cutting-edge research in health sciences, cell biology, biotechnology, and food and nutrition. This investment significantly boosts the university's research infrastructure and its contributions nationally.
The chief guest on the occasion was Himachal Pradesh Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Commission member Lalit Kumar. In his speech, Lalit Kumar emphasised the importance of finding inspiration within oneself and the need for collaboration between private universities and regulatory bodies to achieve academic excellence. He also supported the introduction of vocational courses to improve student employability prospects.
The event also saw the launch of ‘Winged Wonders’, an illustrated book highlighting the diverse birdlife. Compiled by Prof PK Khosla and Assistant Professor Nidhi Sharma from the School of Agriculture, the book reflects the authors' deep appreciation for avian diversity.
The celebrations included a vibrant cultural programme. Addressing the audience, Prof Ashish Khosla, President of Marketing & Innovation, said Prerna Diwas celebrates the inspiration that Prof Khosla embodies, highlighting the importance of knowledge and wisdom.
Prof PK Khosla discussed the founding of Shoolini University, highlighting that a combination of quality education, hard work, and commitment can lead to outstanding achievements. He reiterated the university's dedication to excellence in teaching, research, and technology to make Shoolini one of the world's leading institutions.
Chief Learning Officer Ashoo Khosla discussed the critical role of technology in education today, noting that laptops have become indispensable learning tools in the digital age. In line with this, laptops were awarded to deserving students as part of the university's initiative.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Ashoo Khosla, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, the operations team, and participants.
The festivities wrapped up with the traditional 'Dham,' a communal feast for students, faculty, and staff, promoting community spirit and unity on the campus.
Several high-profile guests were present. These included Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla; President of Shoolini University and SILB Saroj Khosla; Pro-Chancellor Vishal Anand; Trustee Satish Anand; Trustee and Director, School of Media and Communications, Nishtha Anand; President of Marketing and Innovation Prof Ashish Khosla, Chief Learning Officer Ashoo Khosla, Vice President Avnee Khosla, Registrar Sunil Puri, Director of Operations Brig SD Mehta, Former Vice Chancellor of Panjab University Prof RC Sobti, Former IAS Vivek Atray, and Director Planning JM Julka.
Born on February 18, 1940, in Samrala, Ludhiana, Prof Khosla excelled academically, securing prestigious fellowships for his Master's and Doctorate degrees. His groundbreaking research led to his roles as Vice Chancellor of HP Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Palampur, and Biotechnology Advisor to the Himachal Pradesh government. Known as the Father of Forestry Education in India, he was instrumental in integrating forestry into agricultural education. After three decades in government service, he retired in 2004 but continued to dedicate his efforts to advancing education and research.
Feb 18, 2025