Workshop Brings Together Experts to Discuss Innovative Technologies for Rural Development

New Delhi (November 5, 2024) - A comprehensive consultation workshop organized by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi's Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAG) in collaboration with the National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI) showcased potential solutions to enhance rural livelihoods through innovative technologies.

Held at the NCUI Board Room in New Delhi, the event drew over 60 participants from top organizations, including HCL Foundation, GIZ India, Development Alternatives, and PRADAN. The workshop aimed to strengthen the cooperative movement in India by exploring ways technology can drive rural transformation.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sudhir Mahajan, Chief Executive of NCUI, highlighted the government's commitment to empowering cooperatives and improving rural livelihoods. He emphasized that innovative technologies combined with rural innovation and cooperative strategies can play a vital role in addressing the challenges faced by rural communities.

Dr. S.K. Saha, Co-Principal Investigator of RuTAG 2.0, presented several practical innovations developed over the past decade, such as tulsi mala devices, sheep shearing machines, and water level measuring tools. These technologies have proven valuable for rural cooperatives and artisans.

Representatives from various organizations also shared their activities and discussed their technological needs, paving the way for potential collaborations with NCUI and RuTAG to facilitate wider adoption of these technologies.

To take forward initiatives, key dignitaries, including Dr. Mahajan, convened a private meeting to chart a roadmap for future interventions. Their focus was on creating actionable plans that leverage Ru TAG's technology for sustainable rural development, thereby expanding the reach and impact of cooperatives across India.

Key Highlights:

• Workshop aimed to strengthen the cooperative movement in India through innovative technologies.
• Key organizations represented included HCL Foundation, GIZ India, Development Alternatives, PRADAN, and many others.
• Potential partnerships were discussed to facilitate adoption of developed technologies by rural cooperatives and artisans.
• Private meeting will be convened to chart future interventions leveraging RuTAG's technology for sustainable rural development.

About RuTAG:

The Rural Technology Action Group is an initiative at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi aimed at promoting rural innovation and technology through partnerships with various organizations.