A weeklong advanced entrepreneurship and Skill Development Program (A-ESDP) (Hands-on Training) commenced on Monday at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar.
The hands-on training workshop is being organized by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, NIT Srinagar, and sponsored by the Ministry of MSME, Government of India.
The inaugural session was presided over by Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rahman, while Prof. Bhim Singh from IIT Delhi was the Chief Guest.
Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binodh Kumar Kanujia was the Chief Patron of the workshop. The patrons include Prof. Atikur Rahman (Registrar), Prof. M.F. Wani (MED), Prof. G.A. Harmain (MED), Prof. Sheikh Nazir Ahmed (MED), and Prof. Roohi Naaz Mir (Dean R&C). While the Chairpersons for the workshop include Prof. M.M. Wani (HoD, MED) and Prof. Adnan Qoyum (MED).
Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, the Nodal Officer of the MSME ESDP Scheme, introduced various schemes and funding opportunities, whereas Dr. Manoj Kumar, workshop coordinator, welcomed the gathering and highlighted key insights of the program. The workshop is being attended by 25 participants from different parts of the country.
In his speech, Prof. Adnan Qoyum enlightened the participants about the growing research opportunities in EV, Solar, and Hydrogen Fuels. Prof. Maruf Wani, Head Mechanical Engineering Department said that ESDP Program on “Energy” offers a comprehensive and immersive learning experience, equipping educators with essential knowledge and skills to effectively teach and inspire participants in the fields of EV, Solar, and Hydrogen Fuel.
“This program is designed to address the growing significance of energy and its transformative impact across various industries. It aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, equipping participants with necessary tools and expertise to prepare the next generation of innovators and engineers for dynamic world of additive manufacturing,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rahman said that importance of Viksit Bharat 2047, stating that its goals are crucial for economic growth, achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), improving quality of life, supporting businesses, and building better infrastructure.
“Regardless of our diverse fields, we must work for the development of the country and support the vision of Viksit Bharat,” he said adding that aspiring scholars and students should delve into local technologies and engage in research within these domains. In the first session, Prof. Bhim Singh (IIT Delhi) discussed India’s promising future in electric vehicles (EVs), driven by government incentives, technological advancements, and increasing environmental awareness.
“The Indian government’s push for sustainable mobility through schemes like FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles) and subsidies on EV purchases is accelerating adoption. With major automakers investing in EV production and battery technology improving, challenges like range anxiety and charging infrastructure are gradually being addressed,” he said. Prof. Bharathi Raja (SRM Chennai) also spoke about the expansion of charging networks, declining battery costs, and the growing preference for clean energy solutions, which are expected to make EVs more accessible and affordable. “As India moves towards its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, the EV sector will play a crucial role in transforming the country’s transportation landscape,” he added.
