Udupi: The Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) at Shri Madhwa Vadiraja Institute of Technology and Management (SMVITM), Bantakal, has announced that its second-year students secured first prize at a prestigious national-level symposium and idea pitching competition. The event, organised by BVRIT and the IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES) Student Branch Chapter (SBC) of Telangana State, was conducted online on 23 August and saw participation from innovators across India.
Winning idea: 24×7 solar and biogas powered cold storage
The SMVITM team’s project, titled ‘24×7 solar and biogas powered cold storage’, aims to provide a sustainable, round-the-clock solution for preserving perishable goods using renewable energy sources. The concept addresses two critical issues—food wastage due to inadequate storage facilities and limited access to reliable power in rural and agricultural regions.
By combining solar and biogas energy, the proposed cold storage system ensures uninterrupted operation even during power outages, thereby improving food security and reducing post-harvest losses. The idea was praised for its practicality, sustainability, and potential for large-scale implementation in rural India.
Students and mentor behind the success
The winning team comprised Shashank S Moolya, Vilesh Jayanth Nayak, and Rakshitha Nayak, all second-year ECE students at SMVITM. The trio was mentored by Ganesh U G, Assistant Professor in the Department of ECE, whose guidance helped refine the concept for presentation at the symposium.
Dr. S. B. Kulkarni, Principal of SMVITM, congratulated the students, stating that their achievement underscores the institute’s commitment to nurturing innovation and practical engineering solutions that address real-world challenges.
National-level recognition for innovation
The symposium and idea pitching competition provided a platform for students across India to showcase solutions that promote sustainability and technological advancement. Organisers noted that this year’s event received an impressive number of submissions focusing on renewable energy, environmental conservation, and rural development.
The SMVITM team’s proposal stood out for its social relevance, cost-effectiveness, and potential to create a positive impact in agricultural communities. Jury members highlighted its scalability and feasibility for future development and deployment.
Commitment to innovation and sustainability
Faculty members at SMVITM emphasised that the success reflects the institute’s focus on fostering research, innovation, and hands-on learning. The ECE department has been actively encouraging students to participate in national and international competitions to enhance their problem-solving skills and exposure to emerging technologies.
The institute is also exploring avenues to support the team in further developing their idea into a working prototype, with potential collaborations with industry partners and government agencies.
Conclusion
This win not only brings national recognition to SMVITM but also reinforces the importance of student-led innovation in tackling pressing challenges in energy and agriculture. With continued mentorship and support, the team’s renewable cold storage project could pave the way for sustainable food preservation solutions in rural India.