Pune: Over 1,000 architecture and civil engineering students from 200 colleges across Maharashtra recently participated in a competition, where they showcased a diverse range of futuristic models on the theme of ‘Life in Steel’.
The multi-phase competition called ‘Kreate,’ invited students to develop practical solutions aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event gathered some of the most promising young talents in civil engineering and architecture from across Maharashtra. Under the theme ‘Life in Steel: Sustainable Development Goals,’ the competition empowered the next generation to explore the potential of steel in addressing pressing sustainability challenges.The event culminated in a live exhibition where 48 teams out of 200 entries demonstrated their ideas, merging academic knowledge with industry needs.
The competition was organized by Kalika Steel, which manufactures sustainable TMT steel bars using completely eco-friendly processes. A distinguished panel of green architects, engineers, and builders evaluated the projects, selecting three top teams for their innovative designs.
The first prize was awarded to Shagun Shah, Sudiksha Anantharaman, Rehan Deshmukh, and Mousumi Tatia from BNCA College, Pune. Reflecting on their journey, Shagun Shah expressed, “Our team spent countless sleepless nights on this project. We integrated the UN SDG of Gender Equality into our model, symbolizing balance and empowerment. Our model embodies the idea that our existence is intertwined, and that unity and equality are the essence of true balance.”
The second prize was awarded to Ranjana True, Shambhavi Joshi, Sharvat Haval, and Aayush Mirajkar, students of SPSMBHS College of Architecture, Kolhapur. Their model was based on the concept of ’Synergy’, inspired by the ancient mythological event known as Samudra Manthan, where gods and demons united for a cause. “We reimagined this tale through a modern lens, bringing together two powerful forces—masculine and feminine energies—for a shared purpose: sustainable development and growth,” Aayush explained.
The third prize was awarded to Shravani Rajput, Pari Birar, Aarya Dhakane and Manas Gahiwad, students of MPVS College of Architecture, Nashik. Their model focused on SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) and depicted sustainability and industrialisation. The other projects at the exhibit explored themes such as justice and peace, clean water, gender equality, and sustainable industrial practices, resonating with the broader vision of the UN’s SDGs.
The winning teams were awarded cash prizes of ₹1 lakh, ₹75,000, and ₹50,000 respectively, as a gesture of appreciation and encouragement for their outstanding efforts.
Govind Goyal, Director of Kalika Steel, reflected on the event’s success: “What started as a simple idea has grown into a significant event. It’s awe-inspiring to see how students used our steel TMT bars to craft incredible, sustainable models. Every team here is a winner in our eyes for their hard work and ingenuity.”
‘Kreate’ aims to foster innovation and support the next generation of leaders in sustainable development.