Gandhinagar: In an exciting development, the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) is all set to inaugurate the DSIR-CRTDH Conclave 2023 at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Gandhinagar on November 6, 2023. Supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology, this Conclave aims to highlight innovation, foster collaboration, and share success stories within the field of Common Research and Technology Development Hubs (CRTDHs).
The DSIR is on a mission to invigorate industrial research in India, promoting the development, utilization, and transfer of indigenous technology. The CRTDH program, now entering its 10th year of successful implementation, focuses on encouraging Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to conduct industrial R&D and strengthen R&D infrastructure in Public Funded Research Institutions (PFRIs). Recognizing the pivotal role of MSMEs in India’s economy, this program actively contributes to scientific advancement, technological innovation, and socio-economic development.
This year’s DSIR-CRTDH Conclave, scheduled for November 6-7, 2023, will witness the participation of all 18 CRTDHs, each showcasing their remarkable achievements over two days. The event is expected to facilitate collaboration and bring together a diverse range of stakeholders to unlock untapped resources.
The Conclave will commence on November 6, 2023, with a welcome address by Prof. Amit Prashant, Dean R&D, IIT Gandhinagar, and an overview of the CRTDH by Dr. Sujata Chaklanobis, Scientist G & Head-CRTDH, DSIR. The inaugural session will feature an address by Shri Sandip J. Sagale, IAS, Industries Commissioner, Govt. of Gujarat, and the Conclave will be inaugurated by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, DSIR & Director General, CSIR. The program includes the release of DSIR-CRTDH reports and the inauguration of the Network-CRTDH portal. The Guest of Honour, Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, will also deliver an inaugural address, and the session will conclude with a vote of thanks by Prof. Chinmay Ghoroi, Coordinator CRTDH at IIT Gandhinagar.
Additional highlights of the event include the inauguration of the DSIR-CRTDH Exhibition, showcasing products/prototypes developed by various CRTDHs and associated MSMEs/Start-ups incubated at the CRTDH. The exhibition aims to foster interaction among different CRTDHs and MSMEs/Start-ups and will also display posters and other activities and achievements.
The two-day event will host five technical sessions, with in-depth discussions on challenges, learnings, and success stories of various CRTDHs and their associated MSMEs. Each session will feature keynote addresses by eminent experts and experiences shared by CRTDH PIs and MSMEs. Topics on Day 1 will include “Innovation and Technology Adoption in Chemical Industry MSMEs,” “Catalyzing Healthcare Innovation: Role of MSMEs,” and “Empowering India: Renewables and Indigenous Electronics.” Day 2 will focus on “MSMEs Driving Low-Cost Machining & Environmental Innovation” and conclude with “Innovate to Impact: Unleashing Potential and Driving Change through New Hubs.” The Conclave will culminate in the formulation of action items for various stakeholders.
Key participants include Dr. Ranjeet Bairwa and Dr. Suman Mazumdar from CRTDH scheme division of DSIR, CRTDH teams from different CRTDHs, and representatives from Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups, along with industry associations keen to explore the benefits of CRTDH in their R&D endeavors.