New Delhi, Nov 24: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh on Friday stated that new housing technologies will shape the majestic mansion of India in 2047 when the country celebrates 100 years of its Independence.
Addressing the CSIR-CBRI Technology Transfer Mela at Habitat Centre here, Dr Jitendra Singh said that the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) has developed world-class and state-of-the-art building construction technologies. These technologies are not only robust and climate and drought resilient but also in tune with global environmental norms.
Dr Singh mentioned the One-Week One Lab program initiated by him last year to showcase the unique technologies of each of the 37 CSIR Labs across the country. This initiative has resulted in positive outcomes, with CSIR-CBRI showcasing 75 building and construction technologies in one slot and transferring them to industries. In the coming days, 108 such technologies will be made available to industries for safe, sustainable, and affordable building construction.
He lauded CBRI for becoming the mainstay in providing technology for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious scheme, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). He emphasized Modi’s commitment to ensuring that no Indian lives in a Kuccha house, and all deserving beneficiaries have a pucca roof with toilets and lighting facilities.
The union minister also praised CBRI for developing Foldable Salt Shelters, which are weather and fire-resistant, with significant social implications. He highlighted that the reforms and initiatives of Prime Minister Modi are aimed at “Ease of Living” for the common man.
He commended the dedication and expertise of the scientists and researchers at CSIR-CBRI, Roorkee, and emphasized the role of building technologies in shaping the lives of individuals and communities. He stressed the transformative power of these technologies in improving living conditions, increasing sustainability, and enhancing overall well-being.
Dr Jitendra acknowledged the multifaceted challenges in the housing sector today, including affordability, sustainability, disaster resilience, and energy efficiency. However, he expressed confidence that with the expertise present, these challenges can be overcome to build a future where every person has access to safe and comfortable housing.
He urged industry leaders and representatives to adopt these technologies, emphasizing the potential for positive change in the country. By incorporating these advancements into best practices, there is an opportunity not only to increase competitive edge but also to contribute significantly to societal well-being.
Secretary DSIR and DG CSIR, Dr N. Kalaiselvi, highlighted the continuous research and development efforts of CSIR-CBRI Roorkee over the past 77 years. She noted the institute’s emergence as a leading institution in housing technology and the positive impact of its advances on the construction industry and individuals’ lives.
Director of CBRI, Pradeep Kumar, mentioned the institute’s focus on projects for societal benefits and its extensive contribution to the “Housing for All” national Mission of the Government of India, particularly PMAY-G. He highlighted the development of the rural housing Typology compendium “PAHAL” for the inclusive development of rural buildings.
Dr Singh also released the Technology Compendium, a comprehensive guide to various sustainable and affordable technologies developed by CSIR-CBRI in the area of Building Science and Technology.
