Driving Change: Honeywell and Swades Foundation Launch Rural Development Initiative in Maharashtra
Rural India, home to 63.64% of the population, faces persistent challenges despite its economic contributions. Limited access to clean water, sanitation, education, electricity, and livelihoods remain significant issues. UNICEF reports only 49% of rural households have piped water, with poor sanitation causing 60% of deaths from infectious diseases. Additionally, 85% of small farmers earn less than INR 20,000 per month, underscoring the pressing livelihood crisis.
In an effort to address these pressing issues regarding basic infrastructure and economic security, Honeywell Hometown Solutions India Foundation (HHSIF), the philanthropic arm of Honeywell India, has partnered with Swades Foundation to implement a participatory rural development model that empowers local communities. This partnership, which was established in FY 2021-22, introduced targeted community-centric interventions to address water and power access, sanitation, sustainable farming, and women’s skill development to reshape lives across Nashik and Raigad districts of Maharashtra. The joint efforts over the period of three years have directly impacted 40,000+ lives and have improvised numerous rural families with financial stability.
Prashanth Balarama, Senior Director, Communications and CSR, Honeywell India, said, “At Honeywell, we believe that true corporate responsibility goes beyond business metrics – it is about creating meaningful and sustainable change in the communities we serve. Our ongoing initiatives in the Nashik region, in partnership with Swades Foundation, reflect our commitment to holistic rural development. Through targeted interventions in infrastructure, livelihood, and skill development, we are working hand-in-hand with local communities to create pathways for long-term prosperity. This engagement is an opportunity to showcase how strategic CSR can empower rural landscapes, transforming lives and building resilient, self-sustaining ecosystems.”
Through the implementation of 11 drinking water projects, the initiative has provided tapped drinking water to over 2,500 individuals across 650+ households. The water schemes involve identifying reliable sources, building reservoirs and pipelines, and installing pumps to ensure consistent water access at home. Local village committees are trained to maintain the infrastructure, ensuring its sustainability for years to come. Complementing this, over 1,700 households now have toilet blocks, and sanitation infrastructure has been improved in three schools, benefiting students with access to clean drinking water and functional toilets. Notably, the efforts have declared 30 villages open defecation-free (ODF) while fostering the creation of Nigrani Samitis, or sanitation committees, to ensure continued maintenance and appropriate use of sanitation facilities.
The clean energy initiative has expanded significantly, with solar lighting installations benefiting 4 aanganwadis and 3 schools. The introduction of solar water pumps for 100 farmers has addressed challenges stemming from irregular electricity supply, leading to improved crop yields, diversification, and the possibility of second and third harvests annually. This initiative has not only stabilized incomes but has also enabled farmers to earn an additional INR 50,000 per acre each year. Extending this impact to the larger community at village level, Honeywell has The impact extends to approximately 2,000 households through the strategic installed 1,470 solar lights across homes, streets, and community spaces, providing clean energy access.
The initiative has positively impacted 1500+ farmers through donation of 63,000 saplings for orchard plantation. Affordable saplings and training programs have empowered farmers to earn financial security, with the potential to earn over ₹2 lakhs annually from larger plots.
To create secondary sources of income, 524 women have been supported through goat-rearing initiatives, while 156 households have benefitted from dairy, fishing, and mini flour mill-related opportunities. These programs offer an additional annual income of INR 20,000 to INR 25,000. Rural youth skilling has also been a significant focus, with over 600 youth upskilled in the last three years in trades like welding, plumbing, and electrical work, ensuring steady monthly incomes. Scholarships have also been provided to 43 marginalized students, reinforcing the commitment to educational empowerment.
Looking ahead, Honeywell and Swades Foundation are committed to building on their successes and deepening their impact in rural India. In FY25, the initiative is being expanded to 10,000 additional rural community members in Nashik. Together, they jointly aim to continue empowering communities by providing access to vital resources and opportunities for their long-term and equal growth.
Details of some of the key beneficiaries:
Water and Sanitation (WATSAN)
Beneficiary of the drinking water supply scheme
A village transformed: Tap water brings relief to Junafatwadi: In Junafatwadi, Igatpuri, Punaji Devram Korade’s story is just one of many. Before the intervention, families across the village struggled to fetch water from distant sources, as there was no tap water available in their homes. The scattered nature of the households made it difficult for the government to provide water connections. Due to Honeywell’s water scheme, the entire village now has access to tap water. This simple yet impactful change has saved countless hours for farmers like Punaji, enabling them to dedicate more time to their work. The tap water has not only improved health and hygiene but has also brought a renewed sense of convenience and happiness to the community.
Beneficiary of household toilet block construction
Yashwant’s shelter of safety: Living in a forested area, Yashwant Kashinath Khade and his family faced daily dangers from wild animals, snake bites, and the added hardships of the monsoon season. With a modest income from farming and labor, building a safe sanitation facility seemed impossible. As a part of the sanitation support he received from Honeywell, Yashwant now feels secure and protected. His family no longer fears venturing into unsafe areas, even during the rains. This support has brought them comfort, dignity, and peace of mind in their challenging environment.
Beneficiary of water & sanitation at school
Transforming education through WATSAN: At Shriram Vidyalay in Wasali, Igatpuri, poor water and sanitation facilities once posed significant challenges. The damaged infrastructure was unusable, impacting students’ health, hygiene, and attendance. With school water station and sanitation units supported by Honeywell, the school now boasts functional WATSAN facilities. School teacher Mr. Kadam says, “Students feel healthier, happier, and safer, leading to a noticeable increase in enrollment and attendance.” This transformation has not only improved hygiene but also renewed the spirit of learning in the school.
Non-Farm Livelihoods & Skilling
Beneficiary of youth skilling
Bhaskar’s leap toward self-reliance: Bhaskar Vishnu Korde, a 32-year-old from Mohmal Wasti, Igatpuri, has skillfully transformed his life through the Electrician Skilling & Placement program by Udyogwardhini, with support from Honeywell. Now self-employed, Bhaskar provides electrical repair & installation services within a 4-5 km radius of his village, earning an additional average INR 20,000 monthly alongside his farming income. His hard-earned savings have enabled him to invest in a tractor and fund his children’s education. Bhaskar’s story is a testament to the power of skill-building in creating sustainable livelihoods and brighter futures.
Beneficiary of goat rearing
· Meena’s journey to sustainable livelihood: In the picturesque village of Wasali, Igatpuri, 33-year-old Meena Balu Korade embarked on a journey to transform her life through the Goatery program. Starting with a 1+1 goat unit, provided as part of the initiative, Meena adopted the best practices she learned during her training. Her dedication has paid off, with her herd now growing to four healthy goats. By implementing advanced care techniques, Meena ensures her goats are thriving, becoming a role model for her community. Today, Meena not only contributes to her family’s income but also inspires others in Wasali to embrace sustainable and impactful livelihoods. Her story reflects the power of training, determination, and opportunity to spark meaningful change.
· Keshav’s path to prosperity: In Wasali village of Igatpuri, 37-year-old Keshav Mangalu Kachare has transformed his future through the Goatery 1+1 program supported by Honeywell. Starting with just two goats, Keshav’s herd grew to seven, including his original goats. Equipped with training, he not only mastered goat care but also learned how to set competitive sale prices. This knowledge paid off when he earned ₹51,000 by selling five goats at fair market rates.Keshav’s success stands as a testament to the power of skills, knowledge, and determination. He now dreams of expanding his goatery and inspires others in his village to believe in sustainable livelihoods.
Beneficiary of dairy farming
· Shobha’s way to progress: Shobha Vishnu Pawade, a resident of Wasali village in Igatpuri, supports her family of five with determination and hard work. Through Honeywell’s support, she received one cattle, which has since birthed a calf. With 8 liters of daily milk production, Shobha now earns INR 40,000 annually after expenses. Her earnings have been reinvested into building a better home and improving farming activities, bringing stability and growth to her family’s life. Shobha’s journey is a shining example of how support and perseverance can transform lives.
· Bhorabai’s path to empowerment: Bhorabai Popat Khade, a 36-year-old from Waghwadi, Igatpuri, supports her family of six with determination and hard work. With Honeywell’s support, she received one cattle, which later gave birth to a calf. Producing 9 liters of milk daily, Bhorabai earns ₹50,000 annually after expenses. She has used this income to invest in building a better home and supporting her children’s education. Her journey reflects how small opportunities, when embraced with dedication, can lead to significant and lasting change.
Clean Energy
Solar lights in the community
Lighting the path: A safer Jadhavwadi: In Jadhavwadi, Igatpuri, the installation of solar street lights through Honeywell has transformed the community. Before the intervention, the roads were pitch dark at night, leading to safety concerns, including snake bites. Lakshman Pichad, a member of Kalsubai Gav Vikas Samiti Indore, says, “Thanks to the solar street lights, we no longer face the risks of traveling in the dark.” The increased visibility has made the roads safer, significantly reducing accidents and ensuring peace of mind for the entire community. The lights have not only brightened the village but also improved the quality of life for everyone.
Gillco Group Recognized as a Great Place to Work for Fostering Employee Well-Being
Mohali, Punjab – 4th December 2024 Gillco Group, a leading real estate developer, proudly announces its recent certification as a Great Place to Work .This prestigious recognition reflects Gillco’s unwavering commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and empowering work culture.
The Great Place to Work certification is a globally recognized benchmark in workplace culture and employee satisfaction. It celebrates organizations that prioritize employee well-being, trust, and professional growth. Achieving this certification demonstrates Gillco’s success in creating a work environment where people thrive and feel valued.
Speaking on this achievement, Tejpreet Singh Gill, Managing Director of Gillco Group, remarked:
“At Gillco Group, we have built a strong reputation over two decades by delivering commitment, building communities, and creating a positive impact on the lives of people. Thanks to our hardworking people, no wonder today we could build a stronger bond within the organization where every individual feels appreciated, valued, and respected.”
While the certification is a significant milestone, it was never the goal. Gillco’s vision has always been to create a workplace that naturally fosters collaboration, trust, and a sense of belonging. The certificate merely formalizes what employees have always known—Gillco is a great place to work.
This recognition underscores the company’s deep-rooted values and its people-centric approach. Gillco believes that its greatest asset is its employees. Their dedication and professionalism form the backbone of the company, enabling it to deliver excellence in the real estate sector. Gillco Group is poised for significant growth in the coming years as it continues to expand its footprint. The company plans to launch four new projects, which include Luxury Housing Developments and Industrial Estate. These projects are part of Gillco’s broader strategy to explore new territories and diversify its portfolio, further solidifying its position as a leading player in the real estate market.
Gillco’s efforts to nurture an empowering work environment have resulted in a cohesive team of professionals who are passionate about their work. The certification is a testament to this collective strength.Gillco remains committed to maintaining its status as an employer of choice and will continue to invest in initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction and organizational growth.
Oil Markets Stagnate: OPEC+ Extension Looms While Global Demand Remains Tepid
4th December 2024 Oil prices saw some volatility as they trade sideways as market participants awaited the outcome of an OPEC+ meeting later this week. Traders could adopt a “wait-and-see” approach ahead of the meeting, where OPEC+ is expected to extend its current output cuts until the end of the first quarter of 2025. However, concerns over a potential surplus in supply have placed downward pressure on oil prices. While the extension of production cuts may offer some short-term support, the broader market price action suggests a bearish outlook for global crude prices in the near to medium term, as the prospect of oversupply continues to limit any significant upside.
The outlook for oil consumption remains subdued, with China’s demand expected to peak, exacerbating the supply-demand imbalance. Saudi Arabia is also anticipated to reduce crude prices for Asian buyers, further dampening market sentiment. Meanwhile, the possibility of the U.S. Federal Reserve holding off on further rate cuts in December could weigh on oil prices. However, geopolitical tensions could add to the uncertainty surrounding global crude markets.
NSE-Led ‘Bharat Kaa Share Bazaar’ Pavilion Honored with Gold Medal at IITF 2024
Chandigarh 4th December 2024: NSE under the aegis of SEBI in collaboration with other MIIs, NISM and AMFI had set up a pavilion at 43rd India International Trade Fair (IITF) at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from 14th to 27th November 2024.
The pavilion offered a wide range of interactive and informative activities over the 14 days that aimed at reaching out to investors, enhancing their financial literacy levels, creating awareness about the securities market and fostering a culture of informed investing amongst individuals. Activities included investor awareness workshops/seminars, talk shows by experts, skits, muppet shows, cautioning investors about illegal fund mobilization schemes, online scams, grievance redressal helpdesk, etc.
The activities within the pavilion were judged and we are pleased to announce that the pavilion was awarded the “Gold Medal” under the category “Public Communication and Outreach” by India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), New Delhi at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
This achievement highlights the dedication and commitment to empower investors in the securities market and improve their financial wellbeing.
Milestone Achieved: Tata Power Renewables Launches 431 MW DC Solar Facility in Madhya Pradesh
Chandigarh, 4th December, 2024 – Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL), a prominent player in India’s renewable energy sector and a subsidiary of Tata Power, has successfully commissioned the 431 MW DC solar project at Neemuch in Madhya Pradesh. Perceived to be one of India’s most cost-effective bids for large-scale solar energy production, the project was won through a competitive bidding process.
Spanning across 1,635.63 acres, the project is India’s first solar project site to incorporate cutting-edge technology, featuring a unique combination of single-axis trackers and bi-facial modules, thereby, setting a new benchmark for solar energy generation in India. This innovative integration has boosted the efficiency of the entire system by over 15%, enabling peak power supply for extended hours. The project is extremely innovative and was built by successfully overcoming several challenges, including rocky terrain, transmission line readiness, and remote site logistics.
Mr. Deepesh Nanda, CEO and Managing Director, Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited, said, “We are thrilled to announce the successful commissioning of the 431 MW DC solar project in Neemuch. At Tata Power Renewables, we are proud to lead the way towards a greener future for India and this project is a testament to our commitment to sustainable energy and innovation while working tirelessly to enhance efficiency and reliability in India’s solar sector. We are confident that this project will not only reduce our carbon footprint but also strengthen our role in powering key infrastructure, including Western Central Railways and Madhya Pradesh Power Management Co. Ltd.”
The project contributes to sustainability with an estimated CO2 offset of 7,80,300 tonnes and meets the highest engineering standards, with simultaneous SCADA commissioning ensuring optimal performance. The system is CEA compliant, ensuring seamless operation of the Static Var Generator (SVG), and adheres to WRLDC compliance through the integration of harmonic filters. This project also ensures reliable power supply to Western Central Railways and Madhya Pradesh Power Management Co. Ltd., playing a crucial role in the region’s energy infrastructure.
Mr. Manu Srivastava (IAS), Additional Chief Secretary, New and Renewable Energy Department, Government of Madhya Pradesh stated, “We are pleased to partner with Tata Power Renewables on the successful commissioning of the 431 MW DC solar project. This project not only demonstrates the viability of cost-effective solar energy, with a winning bid price but also highlights the potential of sustainable energy solutions to drive India’s green energy transition. By combining innovative technology and engineering excellence, we are proud to contribute to the country’s renewable energy goals.”
With this achievement, TPREL’s total renewable energy capacity now stands at 10.9 GW with 5.5 GW of projects in various stages of implementation. Its operational capacity has reached 5.4 GW, comprising 4.4 GW of solar and 1 GW of wind energy projects.
Mphasis Recognized with 2024 AWS Partner Award for Innovation and Impact
Mumbai; 4th December 2024 Mphasis, (BSE:526299; NSE: MPHASIS), a leading Information Technology (IT) solutions provider specialising in cloud and cognitive services, today announced it is a recipient of a 2024 Geography and Global AWS Partner Award. The award recognizes global leaders that are playing key roles in helping their customers drive innovation and build solutions on Amazon Web Services (AWS). Mphasis has been named the winner of the Industry Partner of the Year – Travel and Hospitality (Global) award, recognizing its expertise in providing technology products and services to accelerate the modernisation and innovation journey of the travel and hospitality industry.
Announced during the Partner Awards Gala at AWS re:Invent 2024, the Geographic and Global AWS Partner Awards recognize a wide range of AWS Partners that have embraced specialisation, innovation, and cooperation over the past year. Geo and Global AWS Partner Awards recognize partners whose business models continue to evolve and thrive on AWS as they support their customers. Among its validated industry offerings with AWS, Mphasis leverages its Airline Data Platform as a primary catalyst for airline customers. Built on AWS native services, it offers on-demand access of data and ability to experiment with AI/ML through open data standards and customizable architecture.
“We are honored to be recognized as the Industry Partner of the Year – Travel and Hospitality (Global) by AWS. This award is a testament to our commitment to delivering innovative and impactful solutions that address the unique challenges of the travel and hospitality industry. By leveraging AWS’ robust cloud capabilities and our expertise in building personalized, data-driven platforms, we have been able to empower our clients to achieve enhanced traveler experiences and operational efficiencies. We look forward to continuing this strong collaboration with AWS to drive meaningful transformation across industries,” said Elango R, President – Enterprise 5, North Americas, Mphasis
The Geography and Global AWS Partner Awards included a self-nomination process across several award categories, awarded at both the geographic and global levels. All AWS Partners were invited to participate and submit a nomination. Award submissions were reviewed by a third-party, Canalys, and selected with special emphasis placed on customer success use cases.
In addition, several data-driven award categories were evaluated by a unique set of metrics that helped measure AWS Partners’ performance over the past year. Canalys audited the datasets used to ensure that all measurements and calculations were objective and accurate. Finalists represented the top three ranked AWS Partners across each category.
The AWS Partner Network (APN) is a global program focused on helping partners innovate, accelerate their journey to the cloud, and take full advantage of the breadth and depth of AWS.
CP67 Mall Hosts ‘Wedding Fashion: A Festive Journey’ to Honor Style and Tradition
Mohali, 4th December 2024: Get ready to experience the magic of Indian weddings like never before as CP67 Mall hosted “Wedding Fashion: A Festive Journey”, a three-day showcase of wedding celebrations, traditions and ethnic fashion trends.
CP67 Mall recreated a world of traditional revelries with the beauty of iconic wedding ceremonies. The Haldi Fashion on Day 1 featured cheerful mock Haldi celebrations against a backdrop of marigolds and rustic yellow décor. The Mehendi Fashion on Day 2 was all about intricate henna art, floral swings and lush green aesthetics. During the Wedding Fashion on Day 3, the mall transformed into a grand wedding venue with dazzling red and gold hues, showcasing stunning bridal collections and presenting a breathtaking ramp walk.
“More than just ceremonies, Indian weddings are a celebration of culture and community bonding. With Wedding Fashion, we have brought this vibrant spirit of everything grand, festive and dynamic to CP67 Mall for everyone to enjoy,” said Mr. Umang Jindal, CEO of Homeland Group, CP67 Mall. “Whether it’s the playful charm of Haldi, the delicate artistry of Mehendi or the grandeur of the wedding day, there was something for everyone to immerse themselves in at CP67.
Visitors participated in engaging activities, including live Mehendi art, mock rituals and contests for the best-dressed guests. Each day featured a ramp walk by models showcasing stunning ethnic wear designed to reflect the theme of the celebrations.
XAU/USD Under Pressure as Markets Brace for U.S. Jobs Data-Induced Volatility
By: Rania Gule, Senior Market Analyst at XS.com
Gold prices saw a notable decline today, Tuesday, dropping below the $2,640 per ounce level, reflecting a sense of caution in the financial markets ahead of the upcoming U.S. employment data. In my opinion, this drop occurred despite gold remaining within its recent range-bound trading, confirming that traders are waiting for further signals from the Federal Reserve regarding the future of monetary policy, especially with the impending release of the U.S. Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS), which could be a key indicator for understanding the central bank’s future direction.
The U.S. dollar is also gradually recovering from the pressure caused by recent statements from Federal Reserve policymakers, which have affected gold’s performance, as it typically has an inverse relationship with the dollar. The comments by Fed Governor Christopher Waller, indicating that monetary policy remains sufficiently restrictive, highlighted the possibility of a slower pace in interest rate cuts in the future, leading to mixed reactions in the markets. These statements reduced gold’s appeal as a haven, but at the same time, they suggested the likelihood of ongoing inflation pressures, a factor that supports gold prices in the long term.
From my perspective, global tensions continue to contribute to a decline in risk appetite among investors. In particular, the threat from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to impose tariffs on BRICS nations has heightened concerns, with the U.S. dollar partially benefiting from its role as a haven. At the same time, these worries have hurt gold prices. On the other hand, concerns about a slowdown in the Chinese economy remain a key influencing factor, weakening confidence in global financial markets and pushing investors to adopt a cautious approach to their trades.
In my view, current indicators suggest further weakness for gold prices, as it is trading below the 21-day simple moving average at $2,641, indicating downward pressure on the price. Additionally, the daily Relative Strength Index (RSI) shows a bearish trend, suggesting a potential continuation of the decline in the short term. However, this situation could change quickly if the U.S. jobs data disappoints or if geopolitical tensions increase, which could push gold higher as a safe-haven asset.
With the Non-Farm Payroll (NFP) data approaching on Friday, the markets appear to be on alert. Expectations for an additional interest rate cut from the Federal Reserve are fueling hesitation among investors. With a 75% probability of a 25 basis point cut, it’s clear that the Fed’s dovish stance may benefit gold in the short term. The challenge lies in balancing these expectations with any signals the employment data might offer regarding the strength of the U.S. labour market.
I also believe that the ongoing geopolitical tensions, especially between Russia and Ukraine and in the Middle East, add another layer of uncertainty. If these conflicts escalate, they could push investors to increase their positions in gold as a haven, which may reflect the current upward trend. In my opinion, in this context, gold remains poised to benefit from any geopolitical escalation or weakness in the U.S. dollar.
Overall, the gold market presents a mix of influencing factors that make it difficult to determine a clear direction. While the wait for U.S. employment data and concerns over monetary policy are making investors cautious, geopolitical tensions and global economic concerns remain factors supporting the likelihood of gold turning upward soon. Under these circumstances, investors should carefully monitor key data, as its outcomes could significantly alter market trends and reshape price expectations.
Amazon India Recognized for Excellence in Women’s Hygiene with Prestigious Annual Award
Chandigarh, 4th December 2024 Amazon India has been recognized for its significant contributions to women’s health and hygiene by receiving the ‘Best Women Hygiene Initiative of the Year’ award at the Indian CSR Awards 2024. The award was presented by the esteemed member of Rajya Sabha, Ramdas Athawale.
This prestigious accolade underscores Amazon’s commitment to empowering women through impactful community initiatives. By fostering menstrual hygiene awareness, creating sustainable sanitary product manufacturing ecosystems, and providing local employment opportunities, Amazon has made a substantial difference in the lives of countless women across India.
“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Karuna Shankar Pande, Vice President – Last Mile Operations, Amazon India. “At Amazon India, we are dedicated to building initiatives that address critical health and hygiene needs, while also empowering women economically. Our community efforts are designed to be inclusive and focused on the upliftment of women in the communities we serve.”
Key Highlights of Amazon’s Women’s Empowerment Initiatives:
· Sustainable Sanitary Pad Manufacturing: Amazon has established state-of-the-art sanitary napkin manufacturing units in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Chennai, creating direct employment for approximately 60 women and indirect employment for 200 more at each unit. These units produce affordable, eco-friendly sanitary pads, ensuring access to essential menstrual hygiene products for over 2,000 rural women and girls.
· Menstrual Hygiene Awareness: Through comprehensive community engagement programs, Amazon has reached over 25,000 women and 3,000 adolescent girls, promoting healthy menstrual practices and breaking down social taboos.
· Women’s Economic Empowerment: By collaborating with local governments and non-profits, Amazon has empowered women from lower-income groups through skill development programs in traditional crafts and other viable livelihoods.
Amazon India’s commitment to social responsibility is evident in its ongoing efforts to create a positive impact on the communities it serves. By addressing critical issues such as women’s health and economic empowerment, Amazon is shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
Milestone Achievement: NCVET Certifies IN-SPACe as Dual Awarding Authority
Chandigarh 4th December 2024: In a landmark development, the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, has officially recognized the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) as an Awarding Body (Dual). The agreement, aimed at strengthening the vocational education and training landscape in the space sector, was signed in the presence of Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, MSDE and Chairperson, NCVET.
NCVET, serving as the national regulator for vocational education and training, plays a vital role in setting standards, developing regulations, and improving the quality and outcomes of skilling initiatives across the country. NCVET is responsible for the recognition and regulation of awarding bodies and assessment agencies that are instrumental in developing a highly skilled workforce to meet industry demands.
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) operates as an autonomous agency under the Department of Space (DOS), dedicated to promoting and enabling various space activities, including the development of launch vehicles and satellites, and space-based services. IN-SPACe’s recognition as an awarding body will help standardize and accredit its specialized training programs, aligning them with national and global frameworks, and facilitating greater integration with key national initiatives like Skill India Mission.
This collaboration will enable IN-SPACe to deliver cutting-edge training in areas such as Satellite Manufacturing, Space Technology in Agriculture, Mission Design for Launch Vehicles, Orbital Mechanics, and Advances in Space Propulsion Systems. NCVET has already approved the following six National Occupational Standards (NoS) submitted by IN-SPACe:
- Essentials of Space Technology in Agriculture Sector
- Fundamentals of Orbital Mechanics, Attitude Dynamics, and Space-Based Navigation
- Foundations of Mission Design and Avionics Development for Launch Vehicles
- Essentials of Satellite Manufacturing
- Essentials of Space Data Products and Services
- Introduction to Advances in Propulsion Systems for Launch Vehicles, Satellites, and Landing Missions
Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, MSDE and Chairperson, NCVET, emphasized the growing need for a skilled workforce in India’s space sector. “As India continues to expand its space exploration capabilities and integrate emerging technologies, it is crucial to cultivate a highly skilled talent pool. With the increasing participation of the private sector in space ventures, it is more important than ever to ensure that our workforce meets international standards, driving innovation and maintaining global competitiveness,” he said.
Further supporting this vision, Shri Tiwari also highlighted the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Under this MoU, the ISRO Technical Training Program was launched at National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Trivandrum. The program aims to upskill over 4,000 technical employees from the Department of Space (ISRO).
Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director of the Promotion Directorate at IN-SPACe, represented the organization during the signing of the agreement. He expressed his enthusiasm about the recognition, stating, “This recognition marks a significant milestone in our efforts to build a skilled workforce for India’s growing space sector. By aligning our training programs with the demands of the space industry, we aim to equip learners with the necessary knowledge and hands-on expertise to support the nation’s ambitious space endeavors and compete globally.”
This collaboration between NCVET and IN-SPACe is a critical step toward advancing India’s space sector, ensuring that the nation’s workforce is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future.