Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune
(DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)
More than 10 % of the global population lives in extreme poverty today; they struggle to fulfil the most basic needs like health needs, educational desires, and access to healthy water, sanitation, and clothing. Most people living on less than the minimum daily financial needs are common in rural areas. Worldwide, the poverty rate in rural areas is 17.2 %—more than three times higher than in urban areas. One child amongst five lives in extreme poverty. Ensuring social protection for all children, especially girls and other vulnerable groups, is critical to reducing poverty. It shows up as starvation and malnutrition, restricted access to healthcare and other necessities.
The Vidyapeeth has positioned itself to meet the objectives of sustainable cities and communities, we have included some of the initiatives that have been undertaken to do so in this report. Within the Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth in Pune, sustainable cities and communities are created using a holistic approach that considers several aspects of sustainability for various stakeholders including students, teaching, non-teaching including housekeeping staffs, security guards, communities in the Pimpri cities for their health welfare, environmental cleanliness of roads use in public purposes, vehicles, ambulances, and sustainable foods.
The Vidyapeeth considers the sustainable environment management in the Pimpri and Chinchwad campuses with highly integrated well-established Environment and Energy Management Systems. The Environmental and Energy Policy serves as the roadmap for the university's long-term, continuous progress. Best practices are consistently put into practice in the fields of resource management, energy, green cover, water and waste management, and air quality. These best practices ensure the goals for sustainable cities and communities of Pimpri and Chinchwad with respect to good and equitable health facilities, healthy and green environment with good quality of water and air.
To make a better alignment with the Government of India initiative, the Vidyapeeth has ensure the sustainable energy supply with certification as Green Education Campus and Solar powered campus generating nearly 40% alternative energy resource.
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (DPU) in Pune embodies the spirit of sustainable cities and communities, fostering holistic sustainability through inclusive initiatives benefiting students, staff, and local communities. Our commitment to sustainable cities and communities encompasses integrated Sustainability Approach, Environmental stewardship, Social responsibility, Economic viability.
The Vidyapeeth has adopted key initiatives such as comprehensive environment and energy management systems and Environmental and Energy Policy that resulted into long-term progress as resource management and optimization, energy efficiency through solar power (40% alternative energy).
To make a better alignment with the Government of India initiative, the Vidyapeeth has ensure the sustainable energy supply with certification as Green Education Campus and Solar powered campus generating nearly 40% alternative energy resource.
The Vidyapeeth connects and support local communities in Pimpri and Chinchwad through health welfare initiatives, environmental cleanliness of public roads and space, access to sustainable food options, equitable health facilities and green environments. By integrating sustainability into every aspect of university life, DPU serves as a model for building resilient, sustainable cities and communities.
Evidence: Renewal energy forms such as Solar panels to make a sustainable learning environment
Evidence: EV Charging Station for a sustainable and green environment
Evidence: Sustainable life on land by natural and sustainable environment
Evidence: DPU’s Contribution to sustainable life by reduction of CO2 Emission
Evidence: Sustainable water purification plant for various stakeholders including students and patients of the communities
Evidence: Rainwater harvesting for a sustainable environment within the University
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (DPU) in Pune is making significant strides in sustainable waste management, aligning with Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Vermi-Composting Facility: DPU's campus features a vermi-compost facility that converts biodegradable solid waste from the garden and canteen into nutrient-rich compost ¹.
Plastic-Free Campus: In compliance with the Maharashtra government's plastic ban, DPU has eliminated single-use plastics from its premises.
Sewage Treatment Facilities: Four sewage treatment plants (STPs) with a combined capacity of 1170 m3/day efficiently manage liquid waste.
Water Treatment Plants: Two water treatment plants (WTPs) with a capacity of 650 m3/day and an effluent treatment plant (ETP) with 50 m3/day capacity ensure recycled water is reused for toilets and gardening.
Evidence: Sustainable facilities for proper management of degradable and non-degradable waste complying with guidelines of Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB).
Biomedical Waste Disposal: Hospitals follow strict regulations for biomedical waste disposal.
E-Waste Disposal: DPU has partnered with J.S. Enterprises for responsible e-waste disposal and promotes awareness among staff and students.
Radiation Safety: Adhering to Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) guidelines, DPU ensures radiation safety through regular health surveillance, safety surveys, and quality assurance.
Licenses and Certifications
MPCB Compliance: DPU holds necessary licenses and contracts from Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB).
AERB Approval: AERB has approved the Department of Radio-diagnosis, imaging equipment, and layout designs.
By integrating these sustainable practices, DPU demonstrates its commitment to creating a more environmentally conscious community, contributing to the achievement of sustainable city and communities.
Forming partnerships and collaborations with governmental bodies, NGOs, industry partners, and international organizations strengthens the institution's efforts. Collaborative projects and knowledge sharing contribute to a broader impact on sustainable development beyond the campus boundaries.
Engaging the campus community and the surrounding neighbourhoods is crucial. The institution encourages and supports initiatives promoting sustainability, such as community clean-up drives, tree planting activities, and awareness campaigns. Collaborations with local authorities, NGOs, and businesses further enhance the community's understanding and commitment to sustainable practices.
Evidence: Wastewater recycling system and treatment plant for recycling of water for a sustainable living environment.
Evidence: Biomedical waste management for a healthy and sustainable life
Evidence: Community services with Cleanliness Drive at Durga Tekdi
Evidence: Participations in the “Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta: A Nationwide Movement for a Cleaner Tomorrow" for clean and sustainable city and community
Evidence: Participations in “Swacchta Abhiyan” for a for clean and sustainable city and community
Evidence: Participations in the “Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta: A Nationwide Movement for a Cleaner Tomorrow" for clean and sustainable city and community
Evidence: Celebration of ‘VANMAHOTSAV WEEK – 202 by the NSS unit in of Dr. D. Y. Patil Homoeopathic Medical College and Research Centre, Pimpri
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (DPU) is fostering a vibrant, inclusive community aligned with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through diverse cultural, sporting, and social activities. By celebrating festivals like Ganesh-Utsav, Diwali, and Christmas, DPU promotes cross-cultural understanding and social cohesion among students, staff, and the local community.
Traditional Day: Students showcase their state's culture through attire, music, and dance.
Cultural Events: Celebrations like Valentine's Day, Friendship Day, and National Days encourage unity and inclusivity.
Local Language Classes: Students from other states and countries learn Marathi to facilitate communication with patients and the local society.
Debates and Quiz Competitions: Students develop critical thinking and teamwork skills.
Field Trips: Hands-on learning experiences broaden students' perspectives.
Health Check-up Camps: Regular camps in urban and rural health centers promote community service and cultural understanding.
URJA and DPU-Nite: Students participate in sports and cultural events, showcasing India's rich diversity.
Cultural Programs: Student-organized events foster team spirit, harmony, and cultural appreciation.
By embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, DPU contributes to sustainable cities and communities by enhancing inclusive and sustainable urbanization, providing universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible public spaces, implementing policies for inclusion, resource efficiency, and disaster resilience.
Evidence: Extracurricular linkages with students and local communities for a holistic and sustainable development
DPU has actively promoted and propagated Marathi language by hosting the 89th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan and donating Rs 15 lakhs for furthering the cause of the language in the field of education. The entire contribution collected from the event was donated to NAAM Foundation that helps families of deceased farmers. A Chair for Marathi language has been instituted at DPU. DPU contributes to the wellbeing of pilgrims undertaking the annual “Pandharpur Yatra” by organizing medical camps, distributing food and other essentials to the warkaris.
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth in Pune operates as a hub for promoting and implementing sustainable practices, nurturing a culture that values and integrates sustainability across all its operations and interactions. Through a multifaceted approach, the institution strives to be a model for creating sustainable cities and communities by educating, innovating, and actively engaging in sustainable initiatives.
Evidence: Hazardous chemicals and radioactive waste management Green Campus Initiatives
Evidence: Liquid waste management with sewage treatment plants (STP) for a sustainable, healthy and friendly environment.
Evidence. Information, Education, and Communication activities for water usage typically involve raising awareness about the importance of water conservation in the society for a sustainable world.
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (DPU) fosters an inclusive and diverse environment across its campuses, embodying the spirit of SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By celebrating various cultural and religious festivals, DPU promotes cross-cultural understanding, tolerance, and social cohesion.
DPU encourages students, faculty, and staff to take pride in their heritage, showcasing traditional attire, music, and dance on Annual Day, Traditional Day, and DPU-NITE. This inclusive approach has cultivated a sense of brotherhood and fellowship among the Vidyapeeth family, embracing India's rich diversity.
With over 39% of students hailing from outside Maharashtra, DPU ensures a seamless transition into Pune's socioeconomic culture. To facilitate communication with patients and the local community, students participate in Marathi language classes, promoting linguistic and cultural exchange.
In line with UGC regulations, DPU has established statutory committees focused on, Gender sensitization, Anti-discrimination, Anti-racism, Minority welfare, Grievance redressal, Internal complaints. These committees ensure a fair and inclusive environment, addressing grievances promptly and upholding the principles of social justice.
By promoting cultural diversity, inclusion, and social justice, DPU contributes to enhancing inclusive and sustainable urbanization, providing universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible public spaces, implementing policies for inclusion, resource efficiency, and disaster resilience. DPU's commitment to inclusivity and diversity serves as a model for building sustainable, harmonious communities, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
Evidence: Celebration of local community festivals among all stakeholders
Evidence: Engagement of students and faculties with local communities and language for a better sustainable and coherence social life
As part of our commitment to fostering sustainable cities and communities, our university integrates experiential learning into our curriculum. Students engage in field visits, research projects, industry internships, and community postings, cultivating diverse academic experiences that prepare them to be holistic professionals. Field visits encourage students to explore their role in creating sustainable societies, communities, and environments. This hands-on approach develops their intent to serve and contribute to the well-being of local communities.
Our meticulous approach to internship opportunities ensures students gain practical skills, directly impacting local community and city welfare. Interns actively participate in community outreach programs, embracing their social responsibility.
The Vidyapeeth promotes undergraduate research projects (ICMR-STS, DPU STS) across disciplines (Medical, Dental, Biotechnology). These projects address local community needs and city development, fostering sustainable solutions.
Mandatory community postings for health science students at our fourteen Satellite Health Centers provide valuable community-based learning experiences. Students extend support to local communities, promoting sustainable health and life.
The Student Council, through NSS, supports community development and uplifts marginalized groups, providing essential services and resources. By integrating SDGs into our curriculum, we empower students to become responsible, sustainable, and community-focused professionals, contributing to the betterment of society.
Evidence: The health professionals of the University reaching out local schools for dental checkup and hygiene
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (DPU) in Pune is pioneering sustainable healthcare practices, contributing to sustainable cities and local communities. At DPU's tertiary care Medical Hospital, patients receive top-notch organ donation and multi-organ transplant care, adhering to NOTTO's strict protocols. This ensures innovative medical practices and exceptional patient care. Routine transplants include heart, lung, liver, cornea, kidney, heart-lung, and kidney-pancreas.
DPU promotes organ donation through regular activities, spreading awareness and education. Their Therapeutic Yoga program offers free treatment for various health conditions, benefiting local communities. This initiative has already helped 5,404 patients since 2018.
Collaborations and Recognitions
DPU participated in the Ministry of AYUSH's 75 crore Suryanamaskar Initiative and received a Rs. 1 lakh grant from CCRYN. Their 'Yoga Center' provides counseling services to stakeholders and the local community, fostering a supportive environment. These efforts demonstrate DPU's commitment to sustainable healthcare and community well-being, aligning with sustainable cities and communities By integrating sustainable practices and community engagement, DPU serves as a model for healthcare institutions striving to make a positive impact on sustainable cities and communities.
Evidence: The Vidyapeeth conducts Organ donation sensitization and activities for sustainable health in the city and communities