Press Release

Press release from SIST Chisopani, Namchi District

Information & Public Relations Department

Date: 02-Apr-2026
REPORT ON BEST PERFORMING PARTICIPATING INSTITUTE UNDER UNNAT BHARAT ABHIYAN (UBAZ) Sikkim Institute of Science and Technology (SIST), Chisopani
1. Introduction
Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Education, Government of India, aimed at transforming rural India through the active participation of higher educational institutions.
The Sikkim Institute of Science and Technology has been actively participating in UBA with a strong commitment to rural development, community engagement, and sustainable practices.
2. Institutional Profile
Name of Institute: Sikkim Institute of Science and Technology (SIST), Chisopani.
Director: Prof.(Dr.) B.B. Pradhan.
UBA Coordinator (PI): Dr. C. P. Khatiwada.
State: Sikkim.
Programme: Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA).
3. Adopted Villages
Under UBA, SIST Chisopani has successfully adopted and worked in the following villages:
Chisopani
Tinik
Salghari
Singhithang
Kopchey
These villages have been the focus of continuous developmental interventions in collaboration with local administration and community stakeholders.
4. Key Activities and Achievements
4.1 Rural Development Initiatives
Conducted baseline surveys and needs assessments in all adopted villages
Developed village development plans aligned with local requirements
Promoted sustainable agriculture and organic farming practices.
4.2 Water Resource Management
Implemented awareness programs on water conservation
Assisted in improving irrigation and drinking water facilities.
4.3 Skill Development & Livelihood
Organised training programs for artisans and local youth
Promoted self-employment and rural entrepreneurship.
4.4 Education & Awareness
Conducted educational outreach programs in schools
Awareness campaigns on sanitation, hygiene, and health.
4.5 Sustainable Practices
Promoted renewable energy awareness
Encouraged eco-friendly practices and waste management systems.
5. Community Engagement
SIST Chisopani has ensured active participation of faculty, students, and local communities, creating a strong model of collaboration. The institute has successfully integrated academic knowledge with grassroots-level implementation.
6. Impact Assessment
Improved awareness of sanitation and health
Enhanced livelihood opportunities in adopted villages
Strengthened community participation in development activities
Increased student involvement in social responsibility initiatives.
7. Recognition as Best Performing Institute in Sikkim
Based on:
Consistent field activities
Effective village adoption and monitoring
Community impact and sustainability
Active student and faculty involvement
SIST Chisopani has been recognised as the Best Performing Participating Institute under UBA in Sikkim.
8. Nomination for National Conclave
As a result of outstanding performance, the coordinator  (PI), Dr. C. P. Khatiwada, has been nominated to attend a Two-Day National Conclave on Unnat Bharat Abhiyan at:
Indian Institute of Technology Delhi
This participation will provide an opportunity to:
Share best practices and success stories.
Collaborate with other institutions.
Gain insights for further improving rural development initiatives.
9. Conclusion
The efforts of SIST Chisopani under the guidance of Dr. C. P. Khatiwada demonstrate a successful model of institutional engagement in rural transformation. Dr. Khatiwada thanks Prof. B.B. Pradhan for his guidance and help. Further, thanks to all Zill Panchayats and Panchayats of the respective adopted wards. Thanks to NIT Sikkim and UBA India. Also, thanks to the teaching and non-teaching staff of SIST Chisopani.The recognition as the best-performing institute in Sikkim is a testament to its dedication, innovation, and community-driven approach.