A ‘Geological Rock Garden’ built by the Essel Mining and Industries limited (EMIl) in the premises of the Geological Department of the Utkal University was inaugurated on Friday by university Vice-Chancellor Prof Soumendra Mohan Patnaik and EMIl India Mining Operation CEO Ashok Kumar Bal jointly.
Prof Patnaik praised the industry-university interface and urged students to make the best use of the garden for their learning.
Bal stressed on maintenance of the quality of the project to make it a model one.
While Geology Department HoD Dr BK Ratha gave an introductory address, EMIl AVO AK Pati extended a vote of thanks. The Geological Rock Garden is designed as one of the best open geological laboratories to enliven the concept of geology textbook in practical approach in the field measurement, mapping techniques and identification of rocks, minerals, ores and fossils.
The lab would enhance the teaching standards, catering to the needs of Post Graduate and PhD students of the department and beautify the ambience as well.
It would also provide a beautiful educative spot for students of the university and visitors to the campus.