Latest news with #SavitribaiPhulePuneUniversity
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Hindustan Times
SPPU probe finds serious lapses in exam process at Moze college
Pune: A six-member fact-finding committee constituted by the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) to probe alleged malpractices during the examination at Parvatibai Genba Moze College of Engineering, Wagholi in the first week of June has pointed to serious lapses in protocol. SPPU fact-finding committee to probe alleged malpractices during examination at Parvatibai Genba Moze College of Engineering, Wagholi in the first week of June has pointed serious lapses in protocol. ((PIC FOR REPRESENTATION)) The panel, headed by Devidas Waydande, submitted its report on June 10, recommending strict disciplinary action and sweeping reforms in question paper delivery and exam security processes. SPPU perused the report and ordered action on Tuesday. The committee found that those entrusted with critical responsibilities of holding exam—including the dispatch and receipt of question papers—failed to follow standard procedures, leading to errors, and potential compromise of the examination process. Among the key findings was despite clear orders, 'the college did not submit the answer sheets the same day to central evaluation committee of the SPPU.' At the same time, professor Pratik Kisan Satav was not kept away from the exam process despite letter by SPPU. 'Satav was deputed as junior invigilator on June 2 during the exam at block number 12,' stated the panel in its report. HT has seen the report. The Question Paper Delivery Register (QPDR), which is a mandatory record to track the movement of confidential exam material, was also not maintained properly, noted the panel. The accused Satav, 37, of Kesnand in Wagholi is professor at the mechanical engineering department at the Moze engineering college and teaching mathematics since past five years. The professor allegedly allowed students to rewrite examination papers after the scheduled exam hours by accepting money. The investigation revealed that targeted students, worried about failing in particular subjects, would leave the answer sheets blank during the exam, conducted during the second half of the day. Later in the night, Satav gave them the answer sheet to rewrite the paper with correct answers and charge ₹ 10,000- ₹ 50,000 per paper. In one instance, committee members noted that the QPDR register, which should have detailed logs of the question papers delivered to various centres, was incomplete and not properly signed or updated. The inquiry also revealed that key individuals involved in the operation were absent from duty during critical exam hours without prior approval. One staff member left the strong room after signing out the question papers without notifying supervisors, while another claimed to have handed over papers verbally without obtaining signatures or maintaining written records—both clear violations of exam protocol. At a printing facility where question papers were stored, the committee observed that the premises lacked even basic infrastructure, including secure enclosures and window grills. Despite this, it had been entrusted with sensitive material. The panel recommended that such centres should immediately be delisted and declared ineligible for future exam-related assignments. Several other anomalies were noted. In one case, CCTV network was not linked to the varsity war room while the seal at the strong room was seen broken. In another, question paper packets were removed and moved without maintaining the mandated double-seal process, and there was no proper chain of custody documentation. The committee recommended action under relevant sections of the Maharashtra Public Universities Act and internal disciplinary rules of the university. It suggested immediate suspension of erring personnel and termination of contracts with third-party vendors who failed to maintain secure exam protocols. It also advised the university to introduce biometric logins for exam staff, mandatory CCTV surveillance of all storage and dispatch rooms, and real-time tracking of paper movement via encrypted digital platforms. The report warns that if such systemic lapses are not urgently addressed, the university's exam integrity may be severely compromised. The committee concluded that the issue was not an isolated incident but symptomatic of broader institutional weaknesses and lack of accountability in the conduct of university examinations. SPPU officials have confirmed that based on the report's recommendations, disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against certain staff members, and reforms are being drawn up to tighten exam security protocols ahead of the next academic cycle.
Hindustan Times
25-06-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
NSUI stages protest over locked study centres at SPPU
Jun 25, 2025 07:58 AM IST Members of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) staged a protest in front of the Annabhau Sathe Study Centre on Monday as Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe Chair and the Mahatma Phule Chair have been locked and unused for the past eight months. Members of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) staged a protest in front of the Annabhau Sathe Study Centre. (REPRESENTATIVE PIC) 'It's disheartening to see such neglect of study centres at the Savitribai Phule Pune University. We demand these space reopened, cleaned, and made accessible to students,' said Akshay Kamble, state secretary, NSUI. Sunil Bhandage, incharge, Annabhau Sathe Study Centre, said, 'We currently function at the Marathi department as these centres are unclean and not used for many months. The university has allotted space for us in the language department, and we've been regularly conducting discussions and programmes.'
Indian Express
22-06-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
‘Can't think of any postgraduate who hasn't been absorbed into some industry by end of course': asst prof at SPPU's Department of Foreign Languages
Written by Kavyaa Musurkar At the Department of Foreign Languages in Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), learning a new language is no longer just a leisurely pursuit. Over the years, the department has seen a shift in its student profile – from hobbyists to working professionals, students to senior citizens, all looking to boost their employability and global mobility. 'The demand keeps changing – some years it's one language, other years it's another,' said Dr Nandita Wagle, Assistant Professor, who has been teaching French and is associated with the department since 2013. 'During admissions, especially after Class 10 or 12, nearly all languages see demand, except perhaps Russian. However, in Pune, French, German, and Japanese continue to draw the most interest,' she added. The diversity of the department's student body reflects its growing relevance. Wagle mentioned that while most of those undergoing the various courses are students, they also have a substantial number of working professionals; in fact, many of the learners are above 50. 'Most professionals join because they view the course as an opportunity to enhance or even reshape their careers,' she said. In 1995, while working with Datapro Infoworld after completing his Computer Engineering from Pune Institute of Computer Technology (PICT), Pramod Karanjkar enrolled in the department's Japanese language part-time course. 'I was fortunate to be taught by Dr Hari Damale Sensei, who not only taught us the language but also shared his cultural experiences from Japan. He helped us understand the nuances of the language and the values behind it,' Karanjkar said. During his course, he was offered a position as a Bilingual Engineer in the Japan-focused division of Datamatics Ltd. 'Within six months, I was interacting with a Japanese client who visited India. Soon after, I flew to Japan for a new project. The education I received, both language and culture, helped me take that leap. I eventually got the opportunity to lead a dedicated Japan Offshore Development Centre in Pune,' he added. In the same batch as Karanjkar was Dattatray Sadashiv Warunkar, then in his 40s, who completed all three levels of the Japanese course between 1997 and 1999. He also credited Damale's teaching for shaping his understanding of the Japanese language and values. 'We got the chance to interact with many native Japanese speakers who visited the department. Through conversations with them, I learned so much about their discipline, dedication, humility, and above all, their love for their country. These are qualities I think Indian citizens can benefit from adopting,' he said. Warunkar went on to serve as Vice President of the Japanese Language Teachers' Association of Pune (JALTAP) for 15 years after completing the course. He fondly recalled how being in the classroom with younger students gave him a fresh outlook on life. 'I loved talking with them. They had so much energy and joy. It inspired me to take life lightly, to laugh more, and live happily. I learned as much from the students around me as I did from the curriculum,' he added. The department has adapted its curriculum and teaching methods in step with changing times. 'Our courses are updated regularly,' Wagle said, adding that 'Post-Covid, many classes moved online. We now run hybrid batches. Faculty members are trained in digital teaching tools utilising smart boards, online textbooks, and other resources. Students also have the option of choosing between paper and e-book formats.' She explained that language education today is deeply connected with real-world career needs. 'Earlier, people came to learn a language out of cultural interest. Today, it's seen as a skill that adds value to any career path,' she said, adding that 'for many, it opens doors to opportunities abroad, or adds a global edge to their current profession.' 'Teaching and translation are traditional options, but many also work in management, localisation, verification services, or with embassies and consulates,' Wagle further said. 'With the way the economy has opened up, language learners can find employment in a variety of roles. I can't think of a single postgraduate who hasn't been absorbed into some industry or the other by the end of the course,' she added. (Kavyaa Masurkar is an intern with The Indian Express)
Indian Express
21-06-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Fadnavis, Shinde lead Yoga Day celebrations in Maharashtra
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde led large-scale events in Pune and Mumbai respectively on Saturday, as Maharashtra marked the 11th International Day of Yoga with widespread public participation. From university campuses to pilgrimage routes and the Mumbai coastline, thousands joined in synchronised yoga sessions aimed at promoting physical and mental well-being. In Pune, Fadnavis addressed a Warkari Bhakti-Yoga programme organised by Savitribai Phule Pune University, Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sansthan (Alandi), and Sant Tukaram Maharaj Sansthan (Dehu). The event brought together Warkari pilgrims, students, faculty members, and officials in a collective yoga session. 'Yoga is the soul of India's cultural heritage and a path to a healthy and joyous life,' Fadnavis said, while giving credit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for securing the United Nations' recognition of Yoga Day 11 years ago. While highlighting the scientific design of asanas and their relevance to holistic wellness, Fadnavis also launched a new initiative, 'Arogya Wari', to integrate yoga into college campuses statewide. 'Today, the Warkari community embodied the PM Modi's message of 'Ek Bhumi, Ek Arogya (One Earth, One Health)' through unified practice,' he added. Over 700 colleges across the state participated in coordinated yoga sessions, including more than 6,000 students and 1,200 faculty members in Pune district alone, according to the National Service Scheme (NSS). Participants practiced asanas such as Tadasana, Bhujangasana, Makarasana, Kapalbhati, and Anulom-Vilom, under the guidance of Dr Pallavi Kewhane's team. Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, Minister of State Madhuri Misal, and scholar Dr Sadanand More were among those present, along with senior civic, police, and university officials. Patil noted that nearly 10 million people worldwide participated in yoga events. 'This reflects yoga's growing global relevance as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern wellness,' he said. In Mumbai, Shinde participated in a grand public yoga session at Marine Drive. 'Thanks to the leadership of PM Modi, yoga has been embraced globally,' Shinde said while extending the greetings on Yoga Day. 'It brings balance, peace, and discipline. We must make it a daily habit—not just an annual observance.' Sena MP Shrikant Shinde likened yoga to national defence, saying, 'Just as soldiers guard our borders, yoga protects our bodies and minds.' Shaina N C, Shiv Sena leader and president of I Love Mumbai, highlighted her organisation's monthly public yoga sessions and aligned the event with the government's 'One Earth, One Health' campaign. 'Yoga is not only for the body but for the soul. It connects us with nature and each other,' she said. Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, Commander of the Coast Guard Region (West), stressed on yoga's value for the physical and emotional resilience of armed forces personnel. Participants were guided through yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation by Mickey Mehta and instructors from The Yoga Institute. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited Drass in Kargil to inaugurate Sarhad Shauryathon 2025, marking 26 years of India's victory in the Kargil War. Organised by the Indian Army, Sarhad Pune, and Arham Foundation, the high-altitude marathon at 10,800 ft features over 3,000 participants. The event includes four races named after key battle points, paying tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers.
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Decision on farm loan waiver at right time: CM
Pune: Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said a decision on loan waiver for farmers would be taken at an appropriate time. He said guidelines and set procedures must be followed while taking such a decision. The Mahayuti govt would not backtrack from any of the assurances it had given, Fadnavis told reporters here after attending an International Yoga Day event at the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU). Opposition parties have been pressing for an immediate announcement of farm loan waiver to give relief to farmers in the state. Fadnavis said the govt would definitely take a call on the loan waiver at the right time. The chief minister said the govt was keeping a watch on the ongoing rainfall in the state and on water storages in all major dams. "Planning has been done on the release of water and suspension of discharge from dams. The govt is working in coordination with the neighbouring states on this. Our engineers have been deployed in these states. They are coordinating on water release and related developments," he said. Fadnavis praised SPPU for its inclusion among 600 top universities in the world. "I congratulate SPPU, its staff, office-bearers, management council and senate members for the varsity's inclusion among the top universities. I wish universities from the state feature among the top 500. I feel that SPPU is progressing on that path," he said. The CM said steps were being taken to fill up the vacant posts in SPPU. The minister for higher and technical education, Chandrakant Patil, had given the go-ahead and issued instructions in this regard, he said. Fadnavis said the process to fill up the posts would begin soon. He also congratulated the organisers for holding the function to mark International Yoga Day. He said warkaris participating in the Palkhi processions and on halt in Pune also participated.
