The 25th Silver Jubilee annual convention of Planning, SAMARASYA NOSPlan, was ceremoniously inaugurated today on the premises of Guru Nanak Dev University. This momentous event has drawn participation from approximately 700 students representing 28 planning schools across the country.
Hosted by Guru Ramdas School of Planning at Guru Nanak Dev University, this marks the third NOSPlan organized at this esteemed institution. Over the course of the convention, around 20 theme-based competitive academic, cultural, and sports events are scheduled to take place.
The primary objective of this convention is to drive enhancements in the state of planning education in India, advocate for planning as both a discipline and a field of Higher Education among 10+2 students, provide a networking platform for all planning students nationwide, and create better prospects for these students post their academic tenure.
The inaugural session was presided over by Prof. Jaspal Singh Sandhu, Vice Chancellor of the Guru Nanak Dev University. Distinguished personalities present at the event included Prof. S.S. Behl, Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Physical Planning and Architecture at the University; Prof. PSN Rao, Former Director of the School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi; Prof. Ashwani Luthra, Head of Guru Ramdas School of Planning; Mr. Pankaj Bawa, Chief Town Planner of the Government of Punjab; Mr. Inderjit Singh, Chairman of ITPI-Punjab Regional Chapter, Chandigarh; and Mr. Chinmey Zodage, President of NOSPlan 2023-24. They shared their valuable insights on this auspicious occasion.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Sandhu reiterated Guru Nanak Dev University's commitment to advancing growth across diverse domains including research, academics, sports, arts, environment, and other academic pursuits. He underscored the university's dedication to nurturing every aspect of life, emphasizing the equal importance of environmental well-being alongside infrastructure development.
Prof. Sandhu urged town planners to conscientiously address environmental concerns alongside other developmental structures, stressing the imperative need to harmonize progress with ecological preservation.Prof. Behl elaborated on the Sanskrit term "Samarasya," highlighting its multifaceted meanings associated with harmony, unity, and synthesis, where various elements converge to form a cohesive whole. He related this concept to the G20 theme of the year: "One Earth, One Family, One Future."
Prof. Luthra, in his welcome address, outlined the diverse sections and events scheduled over the three days of the convention. These events encompass Planning Trophies including CURRENT PRACTICES, POTENTIAL PLANNING, 48 HOUR EVENT, MAP IT OUT, LIVE DEBATE, and LIVE QUIZ; Publication Trophy events such as SHEET PIN-UP, SHORT FILM, PAINTING, PHOTOGRAPHY, COLLAGE MAKING, and PROJECT METHODOLOGY; and Entertainment Trophy events like DANCE, FASHION, STREET PLAY, and MUSIC. Additionally, Gaming Trophies including FOOTBALL, CHESS BOX, CRICKET, and VOLLEYBALL will be the main attractions.
Prof. Luthra emphasized the significance of harmony in urban and regional development, stating that well-designed spaces, sustainable practices, and community engagement together weave the fabric of thriving realities.The guests were felicitated by the members and organizers as part of the ceremonial proceedings.