CHANDIGARH: Enactus Panjab University proudly presented Project Arpan, an innovative initiative focused on sustainability, in collaboration with Municipal Corporation Chandigarh (MCC) and Corporate Sustainability Council, Women's Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CSC WICCI), Chandigarh, at a community event in Sector 9, Chandigarh, promoting healthy food choices and sustainable practices.
The event provided a platform for individuals to explore the intersection of good food habits and environmentally conscious living, conveyed Prof Seema Kapoor, Faculty Advisor, Enactus and State Vice president of CSC WICCI, Chandigarh.
Project Arpan, a flagship endeavour of MCC and Enactus Panjab University, showcased its ground breaking approach to sustainability by transforming organic flower waste collected from temples into high-quality incense sticks. This project is aimed at addressing environmental concerns while providing economic opportunities for underprivileged communities, said Shubham Dhiman, President, Enactus team.
The event was spear headed by Ashish Uppal from Staples and More and Chander Suta Dogra from Devdar Valley Organic’s. They both sell naturally grown products. Ms. Dogra sells fresh fruits like apples, plums, etc. which come from her own farm in Himachal and convert the surplus into various products. Mr. Uppal grow staples like wheat, rice and daal in his own farm. Both have them have joined hands together to create awareness about the right kind of fruits and staples and are very transparent about the whole process, told Mahi Jha, Project Director, Enactus team.
The event attendees about 50 in number were treated to an enlightening presentation on Project Arpan's mission and impact, highlighting the significance of repurposing organic waste into valuable products. The stall put up by self-help group Rimjhim from Dhanas headed by Mamta offered a first-hand look at the incense sticks crafted from recycled flower waste, demonstrating the potential for sustainable entrepreneurship to drive positive change. There was a sale of about Rs. 7000/- during the event. In addition to the display of Project Arpan, the event featured discussions on healthy eating habits and the utilization of millets in culinary creations, further emphasizing the importance of sustainable living, told Aman Sagar, Director Operations, Enactus.
Mr. Uppal and Ms. Dogra emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving positive change. He stated that events like these bring together a community of people eager to work towards a better lifestyle and a healthier planet and said that they are proud to support initiatives like Project Arpan that showcase innovative solutions to environmental challenges.
Dr Renuka Salwan, President, WICCI CSC also visited team Enactus during the event, expressing her support for their endeavours in sustainability and community development.