DURGARATNA 2026

WOMEN REDEFINING CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

A Celebration of Excellence, Leadership & Contribution to Civil Engineering

DATE 17 OCTOBER 2026

ORGANISED BY KRISHNA CONCHEM PRODUCTS PVT. LTD.

EDITION EVENT NEWSLETTER

“To the women who build bold you don’t just raise structures, you raise the standard.”

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

A celebration of strength, skill, leadership and the women shaping our built environment.

DURGARATNA 2026 | KRISHNA CONCHEM PRODUCTS PVT. LTD.

A NOBLE INITIATIVE • A MEANINGFUL RECOGNITION

Celebrating the Women Who Build, Restore and Inspire

This Navratri, Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. brought together a powerful celebration of professional excellence, resilience and leadership through

DURGARATNA, Women Redefining Construction Industry. The initiative was conceived to recognise the valuable contributions of women professionals whose work, knowledge and commitment are helping shape the construction industry and the wider built environment.

From structural consultancy and academic leadership to application, repair solutions, research and technical management, the honourees represented the breadth of expertise that strengthens the industry. Their professional journeys reflected not only technical competence, but also perseverance, curiosity, courage and a determination to keep learning and moving forward.

DURGARATNA was more than a felicitation ceremony. It was an expression of gratitude to women who help build, protect, restore and advance the structures on which communities depend. It also sent an important message to the next generation: there is space for women to lead, innovate and excel in every part of the construction ecosystem.

“For every foundation you strengthened, every barrier you broke, and every path you paved for the women who will follow.”

An Occasion Rooted in the Spirit of Navratri

The event’s message resonated with the spirit of Navratri and the invocation, “Ya

• Devi
• Sarvabhuteshu
• Shakti-rupena

Samsthita”

the divine feminine strength present in all beings. DURGARATNA translated that spirit into a contemporary professional setting by celebrating women’s skill, leadership and contribution through recognition, reflection and meaningful interaction.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

A Programme Filled with Appreciation and Inspiration

A Warm Welcome and a Clear Purpose

Mrs. Anila Mayank welcomed the guests and hosted the programme with warmth and grace. She introduced the purpose of DURGARATNA, setting the context for a gathering dedicated to recognising women whose professional contributions deserve appreciation and visibility. Her opening established the tone for an event centred on respect, gratitude and shared inspiration

Leadership That Recognises Contribution

Dr. Madan Kamat, Chief Executive Officer of Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd., addressed the gathering and appreciated the efforts and contributions of everyone involved in making the initiative possible. His message reinforced the importance of acknowledging the people whose expertise, commitment and collaboration help move the industry forward.

An Inspiring Welcome from Mrs. Anjali Kamat

Mrs. Anjali Kamat, Director, delivered a motivating and inspiring welcome address. Her words added warmth and purpose to the occasion, celebrating the strength of women professionals and encouraging an environment in which their achievements are recognised and their aspirations supported.

A Powerful Message on Women’s Contribution to Society

Mr. Brajendra Mishra set the tone of the event with a powerful address on women’s contribution to society. His message connected the technical world of construction with the human values of recognition, opportunity and respect. He highlighted that women who build, restore and strengthen structures also help strengthen communities, confidence and the future of the profession.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

Recognizing Nine Remarkable Professional Journeys

A defining moment of the programme was the felicitation of the nine honourees. Dr. Madan Kamat presented each woman with a memento in recognition of her contribution and professional journey. Each presentation was a gesture of appreciation for the expertise, dedication and persistence that the honourees bring to their respective fields.

Following the felicitation, all nine women shared reflections from their journeys. Their stories were inspiring, motivating and deeply moving. Each account offered a personal glimpse into the experiences behind professional achievement, the decisions, challenges, lessons and milestones that shaped their paths. Together, the reflections created a powerful reminder that success is rarely a straight line; it is built through courage, resilience, continuous learning and the willingness to keep moving forward.

Meet the DURGARATNA 2026 Honourees

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

The guests were taken on a tour of Krishna Conchem’s R&D laboratory, where Mr. Salil Gadgil showcased the organisation’s research work. The visit offered an opportunity to see the technical and research-oriented work that supports product development and problem-solving. It also connected the event’s celebration of professional expertise with the continuing pursuit of innovation within the construction industry.

A Thoughtful Closing

The programme concluded with Mrs. Anjali Kamat distributing gifts to the guests as tokens of appreciation. This thoughtful gesture brought the gathering to a warm close, leaving the honourees and attendees with a sense of gratitude, connection and shared purpose.

“You don’t just raise structures, you raise the standard.”

Together We Build Stronger

DURGARATNA 2026 celebrated much more than individual achievements. It celebrated the determination to contribute, the courage to grow, the value of shared experience and the importance of recognising those who make a difference. By honouring nine women professionals, Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. reaffirmed its appreciation for the women shaping the construction industry and its commitment to a stronger, more inclusive professional future.

With deepest gratitude to every honouree, guest, speaker and member of the organising team who helped make DURGARATNA a meaningful and memorable initiative.

KRISHNA CONCHEM PRODUCTS PVT. LTD. | DURGARATNA 2026

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

Nine Women. Nine Inspiring Journeys.

One Unstoppable Spirit.

Dr. Tanuja Pradeep Bandivadekar is an accomplished structural engineering professional, distinguished academician, researcher and consulting engineer whose career reflects an enduring commitment to technical excellence, education and the advancement of civil engineering. With a Ph.D. from IIT Bombay, an M.E. in Structural Engineering from VJTI and a First-Class Honours degree in Civil Engineering from SPCE, she represents an inspiring blend of academic distinction and practical expertise.

With 40 years of research and industry experience and 25 years of teaching experience, Dr. Tanuja has made significant contributions to structural engineering, higher education and professional development. Her areas of expertise include structural design, vibration control of structures, earthquake-related structural assessment, retrofitting and rehabilitation. Her doctoral research on Vibration Control of Structures Using Multiple Tuned Mass Dampers reflects her engagement with advanced engineering solutions for structural safety and resilience.

Throughout her illustrious career, she has served in several important academic leadership roles, including Professor and Head of the Department of Civil Engineering at NMIMS and Rizvi College of Engineering. During her tenure at NMIMS, she played a key role in international accreditation through ABET, contributing to the department's successful accreditation for six years. Her contribution as a member of the Board of Studies at the University of Mumbai further demonstrates her commitment to strengthening engineering education and academic standards.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Tanuja has brought her expertise to real-world challenges. She has worked as a consulting and design engineer, advised on structural damage assessments following the Gujarat Kutch earthquake, contributed to rehabilitation initiatives in earthquake-affected regions and served as a resource expert in earthquake retrofitting for government officials of Bhutan. As a mentor to more than 50 M.Tech. students, she has also helped nurture the next generation of engineering professionals.

Her active involvement in professional bodies, including the Institution of Engineers (India), the Indian Society of Structural Engineers and the American Concrete Institute, Maharashtra Chapter, reflects her continued engagement with the engineering fraternity and its evolving challenges.

The Durgaratna 2026 recognition celebrates not only Dr. Tanuja's remarkable professional accomplishments but also the knowledge, leadership and dedication she brings to the field of structural engineering. Her journey stands as an inspiration to women engineers and aspiring professionals, demonstrating how expertise, perseverance and a passion for learning can create a lasting impact on education, industry and society.

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. is proud to honour Dr. Tanuja Pradeep Bandivadekar as a Durgaratna 2026 celebrating a distinguished professional whose work continues to strengthen the foundations of engineering knowledge and inspire future generations.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

DURGARATNA 2026 | Empowering Engineering Through Knowledge and Leadership

Dr. Jyoti P. Bhusari, Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Sinhgad College of Engineering, Pune, is a distinguished structural engineer, researcher and academic leader with over 30 years of experience in engineering education, research and professional development. Her career reflects a deep commitment to advancing structural engineering knowledge and nurturing the next generation of engineering professionals.

With a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering and postgraduate and undergraduate qualifications in Structural and Civil Engineering, both earned with distinction, Dr. Bhusari has made significant scholarly contributions to structural engineering, earthquake engineering, structural dynamics, advanced concrete technology, durability, repair and retrofitting. Her research and academic work include 47 scholarly contributions, four authored engineering textbooks and book chapters published by Springer, reflecting her dedication to advancing engineering knowledge through research and publication.

Beyond her academic responsibilities, Dr. Bhusari has established a strong presence in the professional engineering community. She serves on the National Governing Council of the Indian Institution of Bridge Engineers and the Executive Committee of the Civil Engineering Division of the Institution of Engineers (India), Pune Local Centre. Her professional involvement reflects a sustained commitment to technical excellence, institutional development and the advancement of the engineering profession.

A passionate advocate of knowledge sharing, she has conceived, coordinated and organised more than 35 national workshops, seminars, faculty development programmes and technical learning initiatives. She has also contributed to over 50 invited professional engagements as a resource person, keynote speaker, expert faculty member, reviewer and session chair. Through these initiatives, she continues to connect academic learning with practical engineering challenges while inspiring students, researchers and practising professionals.

Her contributions to postgraduate education, curriculum development, research, accreditation, innovation and industry academia collaboration further demonstrate her multifaceted leadership and dedication to professional growth.

The Durgaratna 2026 honour celebrates Dr. Jyoti P. Bhusari's outstanding journey of knowledge, innovation and service to the engineering fraternity. She exemplifies how academic excellence, research-driven thinking and a spirit of collaboration can create a lasting impact on the profession and inspire future generations.

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. proudly recognises Dr. Jyoti P. Bhusari as a Durgaratna 2026, celebrating a woman whose professional journey embodies the power of knowledge, leadership and lifelong learning.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

DURGARATNA 2026 | A Woman of Vision, Courage and Entrepreneurial Excellence

A journey from supporting a dream to leading an enterprise with confidence and determination.

Ms. Bhavna Ambani is an inspiring example of women’s empowerment, entrepreneurial spirit and professional perseverance. As a key force behind a successful polymer application contracting business, she has helped build a strong reputation for her company through long-standing associations with major corporate organisations and government institutions.

Originally from Rajkot, Gujarat, Bhavna Ji pursued her graduation in taxation law after completing her LL.B. Her professional journey took an enterprising turn when she began supporting her husband, Mr. Jatin Ambani, an engineer, in managing the business. What began as a supportive role gradually evolved into a remarkable journey of independent leadership. Within a few years, she took charge of the company’s operations herself, demonstrating her ability to lead, make decisions and shoulder business responsibilities with confidence.

Even after entering the business at the age of 40, Bhavna Ji proved that determination and the willingness to learn can overcome any barrier. For the past 17 years, she has continued to work tirelessly, strengthening customer relationships, nurturing existing business partnerships and developing new opportunities for growth.

Under her leadership, the company has established and maintained valuable associations with reputed organisations, including Reliance, BARC, MbPT, L&T Power, KOTAK, Larsen & Toubro, GAIL, Reliance Mall, Salem and Tamil Nadu-based organisations, among many others. These relationships reflect her commitment to quality, reliability and long-term customer trust in a demanding and competitive industry.

Bhavna Ji’s journey is particularly inspiring because it demonstrates how women can move beyond conventional roles to become confident business leaders in technically demanding sectors. Her story is not merely about managing a business; it is about embracing responsibility, earning the confidence of customers and building professional credibility through consistent effort and perseverance.

The Durgaratna 2026 recognition celebrates Ms. Bhavna Ambani as a woman who transformed opportunity into achievement and determination into lasting professional success. Her journey sends a powerful message to aspiring women entrepreneurs: it is never too late to begin a new chapter, develop new capabilities and create an identity through one’s own hard work.

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. proudly honours Ms. Bhavna Ambani as a Durgaratna 2026, celebrating her entrepreneurial courage, leadership and unwavering commitment to building enduring business relationships. Her story is a tribute to the strength of women who lead with purpose, grow with experience and inspire others through their actions.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

DURGARATNA 2026 | Advancing Structural Engineering Through Innovation and Leadership

A researcher, educator and entrepreneur transforming engineering knowledge into meaningful impact.

Dr. Priyanka Jadhav-Salunkhe is a distinguished structural engineer, academician, researcher and entrepreneur whose professional journey reflects a powerful combination of scientific curiosity, technical excellence and leadership. With a Ph.D. in Civil Structural Engineering from IIT Bombay, along with undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Civil and Structural Engineering from Shivaji University, she has built an impressive career at the intersection of research, education and engineering practice.

As Director of RS Engineering Solutions and Head of the Department and Associate Professor of Civil Engineering at Terna College of Engineering, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, Dr. Priyanka combines academic leadership with practical engineering expertise. Her professional work spans structural audits, bridge inspections, construction quality monitoring, proof checking and research into advanced materials and innovative structural systems. Her involvement in infrastructure projects for public authorities and other organisations reflects her commitment to structural safety, quality and reliability.

A passionate researcher, Dr. Priyanka specialises in smart structures and materials, finite element analysis, structural dynamics and advanced engineering solutions. Her research has explored innovative approaches to structural performance, earthquake response, shape-memory alloy reinforcement and high-performance concrete. A significant milestone in her innovation journey is her granted patent for a Water Purification Composition in 2021, alongside further patent applications under review. Her work demonstrates how research and scientific thinking can open new possibilities for practical problem-solving.

Her contribution extends well beyond research and consultancy. Through teaching, postgraduate project guidance, technical workshops and professional training programmes, she has helped nurture young engineers and promote the exchange of technical knowledge. She has also contributed to professional development initiatives, including programmes on infrastructure technology, revised Indian Standards and structural retrofitting. Her work as Secretary of the Association of Structural Rehabilitation, Maharashtra Chapter, further reflects her active engagement with the engineering community.

Her achievements have earned notable recognition, including the International Best Young Faculty Award 2019 and the Elsevier Recognized Reviewer Award in 2015. Her research paper also received an Excellent Research Paper Award at an international conference in 2012. These distinctions underscore her dedication to research quality, academic excellence and continuous professional development.

What makes Dr. Priyanka's journey particularly inspiring is her ability to bridge the worlds of academia, research and industry. She represents a generation of women engineers who are not merely contributing to established knowledge but actively exploring new ideas, developing innovative solutions and helping shape the future of infrastructure.

The Durgaratna 2026 honour celebrates Dr. Priyanka Jadhav-Salunkhe's spirit of innovation, intellectual courage and commitment to engineering excellence. Her journey sends an inspiring message to aspiring women professionals: knowledge becomes truly powerful when it is combined with initiative, perseverance and the determination to make a difference.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. proudly honours Dr. Priyanka Jadhav-Salunkhe as a Durgaratna 2026, celebrating her outstanding contributions to engineering education, research, innovation and professional leadership. She stands as an inspiring example of how women can lead with knowledge, innovate with purpose and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of society.

MS. AKSHATA DESHPANDE

DURGARATNA 2026 | Building Strength, Restoring Structures, Inspiring Change

A woman entrepreneur transforming engineering expertise into a mission of structural safety and sustainable infrastructure.

Ms. Akshata Deshpande is an emerging force in structural engineering consultancy, demonstrating how technical knowledge, professional commitment and entrepreneurial vision can come together to make a meaningful difference. As the Founder and Principal Consultant of Tech Resurgo, she has established a specialised consultancy focused on structural assessment, rehabilitation engineering and project management consultancy for buildings, bridges and infrastructure assets.

An accomplished civil engineer, Akshata holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Sardar Patel College of Engineering, Mumbai, and a Master of Technology in Structural Engineering from VJTI, Mumbai. A licensed structural engineer registered with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, she brings specialised expertise to the assessment, diagnosis, repair and strengthening of existing structures.

Through Tech Resurgo, she works on critical engineering challenges, including structural audits, nondestructive testing, distress mapping, structural health monitoring, repair methodology development and quality supervision. Her work contributes to the important mission of extending the service life of existing structures, improving safety and supporting the responsible rehabilitation of valuable infrastructure.

Her professional journey is reflected in significant assignments, including structural condition assessments of cessed buildings under the MHADA Repair Board across multiple Mumbai divisions. Her consultancy portfolio also includes structural audits and repair planning for commercial and residential properties, rehabilitation consultancy for industrial buildings, and structural assessment and strengthening studies for existing buildings. These assignments demonstrate her ability to translate engineering knowledge into practical solutions for complex structural challenges.

What makes Akshata's journey particularly noteworthy is her initiative in establishing and leading her own consultancy. As a woman entrepreneur in a technically demanding field, she is creating her own professional identity through specialised expertise, independent decision-making and a commitment to engineering quality. Through her enterprise, she also contributes to employment generation, with a team that includes both men and women.

Her work reflects an understanding that structural rehabilitation is not merely about repairing concrete and steel; it is about protecting people, preserving buildings and infrastructure, and creating greater confidence in the built environment.

The Durgaratna 2026 recognition celebrates Ms. Akshata Deshpande's entrepreneurial courage, technical competence and dedication to structural safety. Her journey is an inspiring reminder that women can lead specialised engineering enterprises, take on demanding professional responsibilities and create meaningful opportunities through knowledge and determination.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. proudly honours Ms. Akshata Deshpande as a Durgaratna 2026, celebrating her contribution to structural engineering consultancy and her commitment to building a safer, stronger and more resilient infrastructure for the future.

DR. KAVITA FASATE

DURGARATNA 2026 | Advancing Structural Safety Through Research and Innovation

A dedicated academician and researcher strengthening the future of structural engineering through knowledge, innovation and technical excellence.

Dr. Kavita Fasate, Assistant Professor in the Department of Structural Engineering at VJTI, Mumbai, is a distinguished engineering academic whose work reflects a strong commitment to research, education and the advancement of structural safety. Having earned her Ph.D. from IIT Delhi, she has developed specialised expertise in the analysis and design of blast-resistant structures, advanced construction materials, and the repair and retrofitting of structures.

During her doctoral journey, Dr. Kavita also worked as a project assistant on the JATC sub-project titled “Design of Blast Resistant Structures.” This experience reflects her engagement with complex engineering challenges where structural performance, resilience and safety are of paramount importance.

Her research interests include high-strain-rate characterisation of plain and fibre-reinforced concrete, blast-resistant doors and composite panels, and innovative approaches to structural rehabilitation. Her work brings together scientific investigation and practical engineering applications, contributing to the broader pursuit of safer and more resilient infrastructure. In recognition of her research potential, she has received a ₹5 lakh SEED grant from VJTI, Mumbai, supporting the development of innovative research ideas.

With expertise spanning engineering mechanics, strength of materials, structural theory, finite element analysis, prestressed concrete and tall-building design, Dr. Kavita combines a strong technical foundation with proficiency in advanced engineering software, including LS-DYNA, ABAQUS, HYPERMESH and SAP. Her multidisciplinary capabilities enable her to engage with challenging structural engineering problems through analytical and computational approaches.

Beyond teaching and research, Dr. Kavita actively contributes to important infrastructure consultancy assignments. Her work includes third-party quality audits of CSMT railway station and the Goregaon Mulund Link Road project, proof-checking of buildings, bridges and canals, and structural audits of heritage structures, school buildings and statues. These assignments reflect the practical relevance of her expertise and her involvement in projects that demand careful engineering assessment and quality assurance.

As a mentor, she has guided eight M.Tech. students, with five more currently pursuing their projects under her guidance. Through this role, she contributes to developing future structural engineers and encouraging the next generation to explore research, innovation and professional excellence.

The Durgaratna 2026 honour celebrates Dr. Kavita Fasate's dedication to engineering education, advanced research and the pursuit of safer structures. Her professional journey demonstrates how scientific curiosity, technical expertise and a commitment to learning can contribute to the resilience of the built environment and inspire young women to pursue challenging fields of engineering.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. proudly honours Dr. Kavita Fasate as a Durgaratna 2026, recognising her valuable contribution to structural engineering and her inspiring commitment to knowledge, research and infrastructure safety.

ER. RASHMI KOLI

DURGARATNA 2026 | Transforming Technical Expertise into Engineering Excellence

A woman of vision and technical leadership, strengthening the foundations of safer, smarter and more sustainable infrastructure.

Er. Rashmi Koli is an accomplished civil engineer and construction chemicals specialist whose professional journey reflects technical excellence, strategic thinking and a passion for innovation. With over 16 years of experience in waterproofing, structural repairs, rehabilitation, construction chemicals, product management and technical services, she has established herself as a respected professional in an industry that demands both scientific understanding and practical problem-solving.

Currently serving as Brand Manager

Repairs at Asian Paints Ltd., Rashmi plays an important role in managing the national product portfolio for the repairs category. Her responsibilities encompass new product development, product benchmarking, customisation, commercialisation and the development of technical value propositions. Through her work with government organisations, industrial clients and key stakeholders, she contributes to expanding the reach of innovative repair solutions and strengthening the performance of construction projects across India.

Her career reflects a steady progression through important technical and managerial responsibilities. From her early experience in repair and rehabilitation projects to specialised roles at H. M. Raje Structural Consultants, Nina Waterproofing Systems, Fosroc Chemicals India and MYK Schomburg India, she has developed a comprehensive understanding of structural distress, waterproofing systems, non-destructive testing, quality assurance and project execution. Her experience spans the entire journey from identifying structural problems and recommending solutions to supporting product specifications, site applications and quality control.

Beyond product management, Rashmi has demonstrated a strong commitment to developing technical capabilities within the industry. During her tenure as Field Readiness Manager at Asian Paints, she led nationwide training and onboarding initiatives, designed technical learning modules and supported professional certification programmes. Her ability to translate complex technical concepts into practical knowledge has helped strengthen field effectiveness and promote the correct application of construction chemicals and repair systems.

An engineering graduate from Shivajirao S. Jondhle College of Engineering, Mumbai University, and a diploma holder in Civil Engineering from VJTI, Mumbai, Rashmi combines a strong educational foundation with extensive field experience. Her professional strengths include technical specifications, product testing and validation, structural audits, rehabilitation, consultant engagement, customer technical support and project quality assurance.

What makes Rashmi's journey particularly inspiring is her ability to bridge engineering science, product innovation, customer needs and business strategy. She has built her career through continuous learning, hands-on experience and the ability to take on increasingly significant responsibilities. Her work demonstrates that technical expertise becomes even more valuable when it is shared, applied thoughtfully and translated into practical solutions that benefit the wider industry.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

The Durgaratna 2026 honour celebrates Er. Rashmi Koli's professional dedication, technical leadership and contribution to advancing construction repair and rehabilitation practices. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring women engineers, demonstrating that determination, knowledge and a willingness to evolve can create meaningful opportunities for leadership and lasting professional impact.

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. proudly honours Er. Rashmi Koli as a Durgaratna 2026, recognising her achievements and celebrating her commitment to engineering excellence, innovation and the development of a stronger, safer and more resilient built environment.

DR. SHRADDHA MAHADEV ANAWKAR

DURGARATNA 2026 | Pioneering Sustainable Concrete Through Research and Innovation

An inspiring woman engineer transforming scientific research into stronger, more sustainable and resilient infrastructure.

Dr. Shraddha Mahadev Anawkar is a dedicated civil engineering professional, researcher and academician whose journey reflects a passion for innovation, environmental responsibility and technical excellence. With a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Goa University, completed through Goa College of Engineering in July 2024, she has focused her research on improving cement and concrete performance while addressing one of the construction industry's most pressing challenges: reducing the environmental impact of cement production.

Her doctoral research, titled “Some Studies on Cement & High Density Concrete,” explored particlesize engineering and the use of a specialised stimulator to improve cement efficiency, strength development and durability. Her work demonstrated the potential to achieve high early strength and enhanced durability compared with conventional ordinary Portland cement concrete. Supported by collaborations with ALCON Lab Goa, JK Cement Lab Muddapur, Dilip Buildcon and Krishna Conchem, her research reflects the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in advancing practical engineering solutions.

Dr. Shraddha's commitment to innovation began early in her academic career. During her master's studies in Structural Engineering at Pune University, she investigated high-performance fibrereinforced concrete, exploring ways to enhance tensile strength, control cracking and improve structural integrity while considering cost and durability. Her undergraduate research also examined high-density, high-performance concrete using industrial waste as aggregates, highlighting her longstanding interest in resource efficiency and sustainable construction.

An accomplished academic, Dr. Shraddha has served as an Assistant Professor at Goa College of Engineering, AISSMS College of Engineering, Pune, and KJ College of Engineering and Research Management. Across these institutions, she has taught subjects ranging from advanced reinforced concrete design and prestressed concrete structures to engineering mechanics, concrete technology and project management. Her teaching experience reflects a commitment to developing technically competent engineers equipped to meet the evolving needs of the profession.

Her contribution extends beyond classrooms and laboratories. She has undertaken structural proofchecking assignments involving RCC overhead tanks, office buildings and bus stand buildings for clients including Konkan Railway, the Public Works Department and Jindal Aluminium. She also

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

served as staff coordinator for the National Water Mission project in Goa from 2018 to 2024, contributing to coordination and implementation activities related to water resource management and conservation.

Her research contributions include journal and conference papers on sustainable cement production, particle-size distribution, cement hydration, high-performance concrete and sustainable infrastructure. She has presented her work at national and international conferences, including CECAR9, and has guided engineering students in research and innovative structural design projects.

Her achievements have earned significant recognition. She received the Engineering Excellence Award 2024 for the Best Engineering Project, presented by Gomantak TV and the Government of Goa, for her work associated with the National Water Mission. She also secured third rank with distinction in Goa University for her bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and received the ACC Excellence Award at NIRMAAN 2014 for securing the highest marks in design subjects.

The Durgaratna 2026 honour celebrates Dr. Shraddha Anawkar's dedication to research, sustainable construction and engineering education. Her journey demonstrates how scientific curiosity, academic perseverance and collaboration can help address real-world challenges while inspiring the next generation of women engineers.

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. proudly honours Dr. Shraddha Mahadev Anawkar as a Durgaratna 2026, recognising her contribution to sustainable construction materials, structural engineering and the advancement of engineering knowledge. Her work stands as an inspiring example of how research-driven thinking can help build a stronger, more efficient and environmentally responsible future.

MRS. YASHASHREE CHAVAN

DURGARATNA 2026 | Breaking Barriers, Building Excellence

From Junior Engineer to a leading Associate an inspiring journey of determination, technical excellence and leadership.

Mrs. Yashashree Chavan exemplifies the strength, perseverance and professional excellence of a woman who has steadily carved her place in the demanding world of structural engineering. Her remarkable journey at Dr. Kelkar Designs Pvt. Ltd. (KDPL) is a testament to what dedication, continuous growth and confidence can achieve.

Joining KDPL as a Junior Engineer on 15 June 2012, Yashashree has progressed through the ranks over the past 14 years to become an accomplished Associate. Today, she holds a distinctive position as the only woman among the company's seven senior Associates, a milestone that reflects her technical competence, professional credibility and leadership.

Her responsibilities extend far beyond design coordination. She independently leads a team of 20 engineers and draftsmen, overseeing a diverse portfolio of residential and commercial projects across Mumbai, Indore, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and several other cities. Her professional contribution also reaches international shores, with projects in Abu Dhabi that involve direct client coordination and meetings. Currently handling projects covering more than 1.5 crore square feet (15 million sq. ft.), she

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger

demonstrates exceptional capability in managing complex assignments, coordinating teams and delivering engineering solutions on a significant scale.

What makes Yashashree's achievement especially inspiring is the determination behind it. In a technically demanding profession that requires precision, responsibility and constant coordination, she has earned her position through sustained commitment and the ability to lead with confidence. Her journey demonstrates that women can excel not only as technical professionals but also as decisionmakers and leaders entrusted with major responsibilities.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Yashashree is a proud mother of two. Balancing the demands of a leadership role with family responsibilities requires resilience, discipline and thoughtful time management. She embraces both roles with dedication and grace, offering an inspiring example of how women can pursue professional aspirations while nurturing their families.

The Durgaratna 2026 honour celebrates Mrs. Yashashree Chavan as a woman who has transformed experience into expertise, responsibility into leadership and perseverance into achievement. Her story encourages aspiring women engineers to believe in their abilities, pursue excellence and create their own paths to success.

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. proudly honours Mrs. Yashashree Chavan as a Durgaratna 2026, recognising her outstanding professional journey, exemplary leadership and contribution to the engineering industry. Her achievements stand as a powerful reminder that true success is built through dedication, competence and the courage to rise beyond limitations.

A Tribute to Our Nine Durgaratnas

A Message from Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd.

To our nine remarkable Durgaratnas, you are more than achievers, you are pioneers shaping the future of engineering through your knowledge, courage, leadership and determination. Your journeys remind us that excellence knows no boundaries and that true leadership inspires generations. May your achievements continue to break barriers, open new horizons and empower countless women to dream bigger and achieve greater.

Krishna Conchem Products Pvt. Ltd. salutes your spirit, celebrates your accomplishments and honours the strength you bring to our profession. You are the inspiration of today and the role models of tomorrow.

DURGARATNA 2026 • Women Redefining Construction Industry • Together We Build Stronger