Lucknow: A wide array of student-led innovations took centre stage at the final project evaluation programme organized by the Council of Science and Technology Uttar Pradesh (CSTUP), where engineering students presented cutting-edge solutions addressing social and environmental challenges. The event was held at Vigyan Bhawan, Nabiullah Road, in Lucknow.
The initiative, launched in 2017, invites final-year B.Tech students from across the state to submit innovative, application-oriented projects. For the 2025–26 cycle, a total of 399 projects were received from various technical universities and institutions. Following expert evaluation, 60 projects were shortlisted and supported with grants of up to ₹20,000 each, with an initial installment of ₹10,000 already disbursed to selected teams.
Innovation Meets Real-World Impact
The programme featured project displays in the first session, followed by detailed presentations in the second. Students showcased innovations across domains such as:
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Defence technology
- Waste management systems
- Health-tech and assistive devices
Experts assessed the projects based on innovation, practicality, and societal relevance, while also providing technical guidance to participants.
Smart Wheelchair Project Wins First Prize
Announcing the results, the jury awarded the first prize of ₹1 lakh to Anuj Kumar Yadav and his team from Goel Institute of Technology and Management for their project titled “IoT-Based Smart Wheelchair”. The device integrates voice control, collision avoidance, and health monitoring features, offering a comprehensive assistive solution for differently-abled individuals.
The second prize of ₹75,000 went to Yash Chandra from Ajay Kumar Garg Engineering College, Ghaziabad, for his project on Kevlar-epoxy fiber composites, focusing on isotropy and load transfer for ballistic applications.
The third prize of ₹50,000 was awarded to Pranav Chaudhary of KIET Group of Institutions, Ghaziabad, for developing an automated waste collection system based on a finger-type ejection mechanism.
Several other participants, including Ishan Dwivedi, Riya Jain, Kunal Kumar, Aman Kushwaha, Abhishek Nigam, Yashwant Kumar, and Kaushal Kumar, received consolation prizes for their notable contributions. Certificates were distributed to all participants and their mentors.
Leadership and Participation
The event featured a welcome address by Dr. Huma Mustafa, Joint Director at CSTUP, who highlighted the contributions of Principal Secretary (Science and Technology) Pandhari Yadav (IAS) in strengthening the department’s initiatives.
The programme was conducted by Dr. Rajesh Kumar Gangwar, with Dr. Radhelal presenting the overall framework of the initiative. Awards were distributed by Chief Guest Ramesh Chandra (IAS), Special Secretary, Science and Technology Department, who also serves as Secretary and Director of CSTUP.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. D.K. Srivastava, Joint Director, CSTUP, in the presence of senior officials and staff members.
Encouraging Innovation Ecosystem
Officials noted that the programme is designed to nurture innovation among young engineers while promoting solutions that address real-world challenges. By providing financial support and expert mentorship, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic research and practical implementation.
The event underscored Uttar Pradesh’s growing focus on fostering innovation and technology-driven problem-solving among students. With projects ranging from assistive healthcare devices to advanced materials and waste management systems, the programme highlighted the potential of young minds to drive meaningful change through science and technology.
