Visvesvaraya Technological University : December 2013

In the current scenario of fuel crisis several alternatives to fossil fuels are being considered for extensive research and development for finding a robust and cost effective technology for large scale production. One such fuel which is gaining momentum is the Biofuel.

Biofuels are derived from renewable biomass resources and therefore provide a strategic advantage to promote sustainable development and to supplement conventional energy sources in meeting the rapidly increasing requirements for transportation fuel associated with economic growth, as well as in meeting the energy needs of India’s vast rural population. Biofuels can increasingly satisfy these energy needs in an environmentally benign and cost effective manner while reducing dependence on import of fossil fuels and thereby providing a higher degree of National Energy Security.

Hence looking at the benefits of this fuel on the environment & cost effectiveness, We at Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belgaum took an initiative in this field and established a Biofuel Information & Demonstration centre with the support from Karnataka State Biofuel Development Board.

Our Biofuel Information and Demonstration centre headed by Dr. Chidanand Gavimath, is playing a catalytic role in creating awareness, giving training and to kindle research in the area of Biofuel for improvement in the production technologies and value addition of biofuel. VTU Biofuel centre is regularly organising workshops for farmers, students and unemployed youth. Recently a thirty six days training programme was conducted for Gram Panchayath Development Officers, Elected members & farmers. Till date totally 2183 people have taken the benefit of this initiative.

Many one day workshops were also conducted for ZP- CEO, DFO, RFO, GP members, NSS students of VTU, B K Model & Govt. High schools, Kenyan teaching faculty & students to increase awareness about Biofuels. Even the Environment Day this year was celebrated by planting nearly 250 saplings of Biofuel plants in and around our campus. District Commissioner – Belgaum, Registrar & Staff of the University enthusiastically participated in the same.

Given below are the snaps of such programmes conducted by VTU, Belgaum