The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) is committed to fostering indigenous technology development, utilization, and transfer across India. With the aim of stimulating industrial research, DSIR seeks to create an environment that encourages innovation, technological development, and the application of new technologies. In line with this mission, the DSIR has been executing the Common Research and Technology Development Hubs (CRTDHs) program. This initiative, which supports Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in conducting industrial research and development (R&D), also strengthens R&D infrastructure in Public Funded Research Institutions (PFRIs).
Since its launch in 2014-15, the CRTDH program has made significant strides, reaching its 10th year in 2024. The program has established 18 CRTDHs across India, each contributing to innovation and the development of technologies that support India’s goal of becoming an “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-reliant India). These hubs have played a pivotal role in advancing the vision of the “Vocal for Local” movement. To showcase the progress and success of these initiatives, DSIR is organizing the DSIR-CRTDH Conclave 2024, which will take place on November 13-14, 2024, at the CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR-IMMT) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
The event will feature participation from all 18 CRTDHs, which will present their achievements, challenges, and innovations. This conclave will facilitate collaboration among stakeholders and serve as a platform for leveraging the untapped potential of these hubs, with the aim of expanding their impact across sectors. Previous CRTDH conclaves have been successfully held in Hyderabad (2019), Lucknow (2022), and Gandhinagar (2023).
Event Details and Key Speakers
The DSIR-CRTDH Conclave 2024 will commence on November 13, 2024, with a welcome address by Dr. Ramanuj Narayan, Director of CSIR-IMMT. The inauguration will be led by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary of DSIR and Director General of CSIR, who will also deliver the inaugural speech. The opening ceremony will feature key addresses from notable leaders including:
- Dr. Vipin C. Shukla, Scientist G & Head of CRTDH, DSIR
- Shri Hemant Sharma, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Government of Odisha
- Smt. Pranati Chhotray, IAS, Director of Handicrafts, Government of Odisha
- Shri P.K. Gupta, Director, MSME Development Institute, Cuttack, Ministry of MSME, Government of India
Exhibition and Technical Sessions
The event will also include an exhibition showcasing products, prototypes, and innovations developed by various CRTDHs, MSMEs, and start-ups. The exhibition will feature a range of displays, including posters and models, illustrating the achievements and activities of the CRTDHs. This will offer an opportunity for participants to explore the work of different CRTDHs, particularly those they may not yet be connected with, and foster greater collaboration across sectors.
Over the course of the two-day conclave, there will be four technical sessions focusing on the challenges, learnings, and success stories from the CRTDHs and the MSMEs associated with them. Each session will include a keynote address from an expert in the field, followed by experience-sharing presentations by Principal Investigators (PIs) from CRTDHs and representatives from MSMEs. These sessions will explore various aspects of industrial R&D, innovation, and technology transfer, and will conclude with the formulation of actionable items for various stakeholders.
