The Department of Technical and Applied Chemistry at Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI) recently hosted an inspiring session that explored the future of India’s energy landscape. The event featured Dr. Alok Sharma, Director of R&D at Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Senior Vice President of the Hydrogen Association of India (HAI), and President of NLGI India, whose keynote address offered profound insights into India’s decarbonization journey and IOCL’s strategic vision.
Charting India’s Path to a Sustainable Energy Future
Dr. Sharma’s thought-provoking session focused on the transformative shifts shaping India’s energy transition. He outlined eight critical levers driving decarbonization:
*Energy Transition
*Energy Efficiency
*Electrification
*Fuel Switching
*Carbon Capture, Utilization & Storage (CCUS)
*Natural Climate Solutions
*Policy & Finance
*Digitalization & Innovation (AI, ML, Digital Twins)
Dr. Sharma highlighted Indian Oil’s Net Zero Vision for 2046. He emphasized the company’s pioneering initiatives in ethanol, compressed biogas (CBG), sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and biofuels. He underlined that India’s clean energy future will be powered not only by technology but also by vision, collaboration, and long-term commitment.
Industry Leaders Enrich Dialogue with Students and Faculty
Adding depth and perspective to the discussion were Dr. Karthikeyani A.V., GM – R&D, and Mr. Pushkar Varshney, Senior Manager – R&D at IOCL. Their active participation and insightful inputs enriched the session. They fostered a meaningful exchange of ideas and inspired both students and faculty to think beyond conventional boundaries.
Celebrating a Milestone
The session also marked a significant milestone for the Department of Technical & Applied Chemistry with the official unveiling of its new departmental brochure. More than just a publication, the brochure showcases the department’s legacy, innovation, and forward-looking vision. It captures the dynamic academic ecosystem.
It highlights:
*Cutting-edge research initiatives
*Sustainability-driven projects
*Profiles of distinguished faculty, alumni, and collaborators
A glimpse into student achievements, initiatives, and opportunities
The unveiling ceremony was graced by Dr. Alok Sharma, Mr. Sunil Chari, Distinguished Professor of Practice and Managing Director of Rossari Bio-Tech Ltd., and Dr. Sachin Kore, Director of VJTI. Their presence added significance to this celebratory moment.
Strengthening Academia-Industry Synergy for the Future
The dual milestone — an insightful session on India’s evolving energy future and the unveiling of the department’s brochure — reflects VJTI’s enduring commitment to academic excellence, sustainable innovation, and collaboration with industry leaders. As per the VJTI press release, the Department of Technical and Applied Chemistry continues to push the boundaries of scientific discovery. It remains dedicated to creating knowledge that transforms, connects, and inspires. The department aims to prepare the next generation of engineers and researchers to lead India’s sustainable future.
