Virendra Singh Rawat / Lucknow
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur and Military Engineer Services (MES) Jhansi have joined hands to convert army stations into carbon-neutral campuses.
They have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to contribute towards India’s vision of achieving net zero emissions by 2070. The MOU aims to establish a demonstrable model through a real-world example of achieving carbon neutrality.
Five campuses under the MES Jhansi cantonment have been identified initially, which will be converted into NetZero Carbon, Net Zero Energy, Net Zero Water, and Net Zero Waste campuses/stations in a phased manner.
“This partnership bears testimony to synergistic efforts between two institutions in contributing towards India’s Net Zero projections. We look forward to showcase a proof-of-concept model through coordinated initiatives, and through creation of a resource pool of Army personnel trained in sustainable practices,” IIT Kanpur director Prof Abhay Karandikar said.
The Indian Army and IIT Kanpur plan to create a carbon-neutral path for India to achieve sustainability. The vision is to leverage the vast land mass covered by Army cantonments and convert them into carbon neutral ones, while adding value to India’s larger goal.
The MOU includes training Army personnel and creating their resource pool through on-job training for sustainable practices.
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“The Indian Army has always been at the forefront of serving the nation, and this collaboration is another example of their commitment towards the betterment of the country,” Col Akhil Singh Charak said.