Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) celebrated National Technology Day 2026 with a grand “Technofest cum Customer Meet” organized at its campus in Thiruvananthapuram on May 11, 2026. The event brought together scientists, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, startups, academicians, technology partners, customers, and stakeholders to deliberate on innovation, technology commercialization, and collaborative research opportunities.

The programme was organized with the objective of strengthening the institute’s engagement with industry and showcasing CSIR-NIIST’s research expertise, technological innovations, and translational research capabilities developed for societal and industrial applications.

Delivering the presidential address, Dr. C. Anandharamakrishnan emphasized that National Technology Day is an occasion to celebrate India’s scientific achievements and reaffirm the commitment of research institutions towards nation-building through innovation and impactful technologies. He stated that CSIR-NIIST has been actively pursuing translational and industry-oriented research in areas such as sustainable materials, food and nutraceutical technologies, chemical sciences, environmental technologies, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and circular economy solutions. He further noted that the Technofest cum Customer Meet reflects the institute’s growing focus on technology transfer, industry partnerships, and startup engagement.

The National Technology Day address was delivered by T. G. Sitharam, who attended the programme as the Chief Guest. In his address, he emphasized the role of science, technology, and innovation in building a sustainable and self-reliant India. Highlighting the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he stressed the importance of innovation-driven growth, AI-ready campuses, and emerging sectors such as semiconductors, clean energy, and green hydrogen. He also noted that many global industry leaders are graduates of ordinary engineering colleges, underscoring that dedication and innovation matter more than institutional reputation. Addressing the younger generation, he emphasized that ethics, inclusiveness, and human values must guide the advancement of disruptive AI technologies for achieving meaningful national progress.

Lakshmi Kantam attended the programme as the Guest of Honour and delivered the special address. She appreciated the significant contributions of CSIR-NIIST in advancing research and technology development across multiple sectors and highlighted the impactful work carried out by CSIR-IICT. Beena Pillai, Director of Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), also attended the function.

A major highlight of the event was the felicitation of CSIR-NIIST customers and industry partners in recognition of their successful collaborations and continued engagement with the institute. Representatives from partner industries and organizations shared their experiences of working with CSIR-NIIST and highlighted how the institute’s technological support and scientific expertise had contributed to product development, process optimization, quality enhancement, and innovation-driven growth.

The day-long programme included interactive sessions with customers, technology showcases, presentations on CSIR-NIIST’s research areas of expertise, and success-story sharing sessions by industry collaborators and entrepreneurs. Scientists from various divisions of the institute presented research activities and technology offerings in domains including food processing and nutraceuticals, sustainable packaging, carbon capture and utilization, specialty chemicals, advanced materials, biotechnology, environmental sustainability, and digital and analytical technologies.

The event also provided participants an opportunity to engage directly with scientists and technology experts of the institute to explore possibilities for collaborative research, consultancy, analytical services, technology transfer, incubation support, and industrial problem-solving.

The programme concluded with a valedictory session after extensive interactions and networking among participants. The event successfully reinforced CSIR-NIIST’s commitment towards promoting innovation-driven partnerships, strengthening industry connect, and translating scientific research into technologies that create societal and economic impact.

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NK

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