Activities Conducted Under the Aegis of DAV University Zoological Society
Guest Lectures and Awareness Campaigns
Guest Lecture on Wetlands – 2016
To commemorate World Wetlands Day, a guest lecture was organized on February 1, 2016. Dr. Anish Dua, Professor at the Department of Zoology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, delivered an insightful session on the ecological and environmental significance of wetlands. The lecture aimed to spread awareness about wetland conservation and their role in maintaining biodiversity.
Cancer Awareness Lecture – 2020
On January 31, 2020, a lecture on "Cancer Awareness" was organized for students. Dr. Shikha Walia, Radiation Oncologist at Patel Hospital, Jalandhar, highlighted the early signs, risk factors, and prevention strategies for cancer. Around 100 students attended and gained valuable knowledge about early detection and lifestyle adjustments that can reduce cancer risks.
Breast Cancer Awareness Camp – 2021
A Breast Cancer Awareness Camp was held on October 13, 2021. Dr. Muveen Mittal, Consultant Medical Oncologist from Shrimann Superspeciality Hospital, Jalandhar, was invited to share his expertise. He discussed the major causes and risk factors of breast cancer, such as age, genetics, diet, and hormonal changes, and emphasized the importance of early detection in ensuring full recovery.
AIDS Day Awareness Nukkad Natak – 2018
On November 30, 2018, student members of the DAV University Zoological Society presented a street play (Nukkad Natak) to observe AIDS Day. The performance was aimed at spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention and breaking societal myths surrounding the disease.
Participation in Scientific and Conservation Events
Asian Waterbird Census – 2018
On January 17, 2018, a team of five students and Dr. Dinesh Lakhanpal from DAV University Zoological Society participated in the Asian Waterbird Census at Ranjit Sagar Dam. Led by ecologist T.K. Roy, the team contributed to the global initiative coordinated by Wetlands International South Asia. The census recorded waterbird species diversity and population status, contributing valuable data for wetland conservation.
Sparrow Day Celebrations – Annually Since 2020
The DAV University Zoological Society celebrates Sparrow Day every year on March 20 to raise awareness about the declining population of sparrows in urban areas. Students perform street plays, organize poster presentations, and install bird feeders across the university campus. The initiative highlights the ecological importance of sparrows and promotes active conservation efforts.
Workshops and Training Programs
Workshop “Smridhi” – 2021
On August 6, 2021, the DAV University Zoological Society organized a workshop titled “Smridhi,” focused on using science and technology to uplift the SC/ST community. Village sarpanchs and community members were invited. Dr. S. S. Hundal, Deputy Director of Horticulture, Jalandhar, was the chief guest and keynote speaker, emphasizing inclusive development through scientific tools.
Training in Apiculture – 2019
A five-day training on apiculture was organized from April 22–26, 2019, at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Noormahal. Students from undergraduate to doctoral levels participated along with three faculty members. Experts, including Dr. Ritu Raj and Dr. Sanjeev, taught topics such as brood identification, bee behavior, management, equipment usage, and beekeeping techniques. This program aimed to establish an apiculture unit in the university.
Training in Basic Fisheries – 2019
From November 25–29, 2019, students from B.Sc. Zoology and Aquatic Biology underwent fisheries training at the Regional Fisheries Office, Jalandhar. Led by Ms. Prabhjot Kaur, the session included hands-on learning about fish species, diseases, pond construction, water quality, diet management, and fish breeding techniques under the guidance of Fisheries Officer Subhwant Kaur.
Online Workshop on Analytical Instruments – 2022
An online workshop on "Principles and Applications of Advanced Analytical Equipment" was conducted in collaboration with CSIR-IIIM Jammu from February 16–18, 2022. Seventy-eight participants, including students, researchers, and faculty, benefited from lectures by esteemed scientists. The sessions focused on the use of cutting-edge analytical tools in biological sciences.
Celebration of National Science Day and Youth Flair
National Science Day and Science Fest – Celebrated Annually
National Science Day is celebrated annually on February 28 to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect. The DAV University Zoological Society conducts a two-day science fest on February 27–28, featuring intra- and interdepartmental competitions such as zoology-themed rangoli, nature and wildlife photography, poster presentations, and declamation contests. These activities foster scientific creativity and student engagement.
Youth Flair Poster Presentations – 2017 and 2018
The society actively participated in the Youth Flair events held in 2017 and 2018 by organizing poster presentations. Students from various schools showcased their work, developing confidence and scientific articulation skills.
Educational Trips and Field Visits
Trip to Panjab University, Chandigarh – 2015
On April 9, 2015, an educational visit was organized to Panjab University, Chandigarh, for B.Sc. and M.Sc. students of Zoology and Biotechnology. They explored the Invertebrate and Chordate Museums, Instrumentation Facility, and Central Instrumentation Laboratory. Accompanied by faculty members, the students gained hands-on experience with advanced scientific tools and anatomical exhibits.
Visit to IMTECH, NIPER, and CRI – 2015
On December 1, 2015, students from senior undergraduate and postgraduate classes visited premier institutions including IMTECH and NIPER in Chandigarh, and CRI in Kasauli. The trip provided exposure to biotechnological and pharmaceutical research environments, fostering interdisciplinary scientific learning.
Educational Trip to Keoladeo National Park – 2016
Students visited the Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, where they observed numerous species of native and migratory birds. The trip also included visits to the Salim Ali Museum, Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, and Vrindavan. Students learned about bird morphology, behavior, ecology, and conservation.
Educational Trip to Uttarakhand – 2018
From April 13–17, 2018, a joint trip by the Departments of Zoology and Microbiology was organized to Uttarakhand. Students visited the CSIR Institute of Petroleum and learned molecular biology techniques. They also toured museums at the Forest Research Institute and explored Rajaji National Park. Recreational visits to Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar were also included.
Visit to Punjab Agricultural University – 2019
On April 5, 2019, a one-day educational trip to Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, was arranged. Students visited various laboratories including Ornithology, Animal Physiology, Rodent Lab, and the Zoology Museum. Dr. Tejdeep Kler guided the tour, showcasing specimens, nests, skeletal models, and laboratory equipment.
Educational Trip to PIMS, Jalandhar – Conducted Annually Since 2019
Every year, students from B.Sc. (Semesters II, IV, and VI) and M.Sc. (Semester II) of DAV University Zoological Society visit the Punjab Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Jalandhar. The students explore various departments and laboratories, including Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Pathology. They also visit the medical museum, which provides an interactive learning experience about human anatomy and medical history. PIMS faculty deliver lectures on emerging life sciences careers and the significance of laboratory technologies and research. Students have the opportunity to ask questions and receive career guidance. This trip is conducted annually to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical exposure to biomedical sciences.
Educational Trip to Jaipur, Ajmer, and Pushkar – 2024
From March 12–16, 2024, 50 students and four faculty members visited Jaipur, Ajmer, and Pushkar. The tour included visits to Hawa Mahal, Jaipur Zoo, Jantar Mantar, and Albert Museum. The group also explored the cultural and spiritual landscapes of Ajmer Sharif Dargah and Pushkar Lake. The trip provided insights into heritage, biodiversity, and environmental conservation.
Conferences and Seminars
Two-Day Conference: “One Planet, One Health, One Future” – 2023
On November 22–23, 2023, DAV University Zoological Society organized a national conference titled “One Planet, One Health, One Future” in collaboration with PSCST, PPCB, and ISCA (Chandigarh Chapter). Eminent speakers shared their insights on biotechnology, health, environment, and sustainable development. Dr. Antara Banerjee discussed the therapeutic potential of stem cell-derived exosomes, while Dr. Manju Sharma emphasized biotechnology’s role in India’s progress. A special moment came when 14-year-old Harmehar Kaur presented a research paper on climate change and won special recognition. Experts like Dr. Kamal Jaiswal and Dr. Sukhbir Kaur shared impactful research on animal sciences and vaccine development. Awards and fellowships were conferred by the Punjab Forum for Science and Technology Communication to notable individuals including Dr. Manoj Kumar and Mr. Rajan Gupta. Research awards were also presented in various presentation categories, recognizing academic excellence across institutions.