Srujan, the Centre of Excellence in Industry 4.0, is the North East’s first such facility, advancing skill development.
PUNE (India CSR): Bharat Forge, a leading conglomerate in forging and automotive sectors, has taken a significant step toward empowering the youth of Nagaland with the inauguration of the Centre of Excellence Industry 4.0 – Srujan at the Nagaland Tool Room & Training Centre (NTTC) in Dimapur. The function, held on April 25, 2025, was graced by the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, alongside senior representatives from Bharat Forge, including Executive Director Raju Kalyani and Head of CSR Dr. Leena Deshpande. Other notable attendees included MLA and Advisor for Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, and Principal of NTTC, Er. Petehetuo Miasalhou.
Purpose and Vision
The Centre of Excellence Industry 4.0 – Srujan is designed to bridge the skill gap, nurture local talent, and create sustainable career pathways for Nagaland’s youth. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision for inclusive growth, positioning the centre as a model for development and community upliftment in the North East region. By fostering innovation and equipping young minds with advanced technological skills, the centre aims to transform Nagaland into a dynamic hub for Industry 4.0 technologies, including automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized the transformative potential of the centre, stating, “This is not just a building or a laboratory; it is a playground of possibilities. The skills gained here will not just secure jobs; they will create them. Whether our youth dream of starting a tech venture, improving agricultural tools with AI, or designing solutions for our communities, this is their launchpad”.
Objectives and Benefits
The primary objective of the Advance Simulation Lab (Industry 4.0) is to establish Nagaland as a leader in cutting-edge technology and automation. The centre is expected to train over 500 youth annually in technologies such as robotics, AI, 3D advanced simulation, automation, and smart factories, ensuring they are future-ready for the digital industrial revolution (DIPR Nagaland).
The centre offers a range of benefits, including:
| Hands-on Skill Development | Comprehensive training programs in advanced technologies to prepare students for modern industry demands. |
| Enhanced Industry Readiness:. | Increased employment opportunities for local youth through practical, industry-relevant skills |
| Support for Projects and Internships | Opportunities for students to engage in real-world projects and gain hands-on experience. |
| Entrepreneurship Development | Fostering innovation and supporting start-ups through an incubation facility aligned with Start-up Nagaland. |
Advanced Technological Components
The Centre of Excellence is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to provide hands-on training in Industry 4.0 technologies. Components featured in the centre ensure that students gain practical, industry-relevant skills, preparing them for careers in advanced manufacturing and technology-driven sectors.
These include:
| Component | Description |
| Programmable Drone | Enables students to learn drone programming for applications like agriculture and aerial surveys. |
| 3D Printer | Introduces additive manufacturing, allowing creation of three-dimensional objects from digital files. |
| Mini Industry 4.0 Smart Factory | Offers practical experience in industrial applications with color sensors and sorting mechanisms. |
| Mechatronics Trainer Lab | Provides a space to integrate mechanical, electrical, electronic, and computer systems. |
| CNC Simulation Software | Offers virtual training in CNC machine operations. |
| RoboDk Simulation Software | Teaches the functioning of robots in manufacturing setups. |
| Master 2025 Software | Supports learning of manufacturing processes like turning and milling. |
| Automation Studio Software | Enables simulation-based learning of hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical, and automation technologies. |
Impact and Regional Significance
The Centre of Excellence Industry 4.0 – Srujan is the first of its kind in the North Eastern region, marking a significant milestone in skill development. Building on NTTC’s legacy, which has trained over 10,000 youth over the past 19 years with a 70% placement rate, the centre is poised to amplify this impact. It is expected to serve as a breeding ground for innovation, supporting start-ups through its incubation facility and aligning with initiatives like Start-up Nagaland.
The centre’s focus on technologies like 3D printing, robotics, and AI positions it to address local challenges, such as improving agricultural practices or developing community solutions. By fostering entrepreneurship, it aims to empower youth to create jobs rather than solely seek them, contributing to the economic growth of Nagaland and the broader North East region.
Government and Industry Collaboration
The initiative is a collaborative effort supported by Bharat Forge, the Government of Nagaland, and the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).
Chief Minister Rio assured full governmental support to NTTC, emphasizing sustainable and innovative technological development. He also praised Bharat Forge, led by Babasaheb Kalyani, for its visionary leadership and urged the company to encourage industry partners to explore Nagaland’s untapped potential.
Raju Kalyani, Executive Director of Bharat Forge, reiterated the company’s commitment to skill development, stating, “Bharat Forge is proud to launch this state-of-the-art skill centre, which will empower young minds to master next-gen tech like drone technology, 3D printing, and more.” Dr. Leena Deshpande, Head of CSR, highlighted the centre’s role in nurturing education and innovation, aligning with Bharat Forge’s broader mission of sustainable growth.
Broader Context and Future Prospects
The Centre of Excellence complements other NTTC facilities, such as the Agro-Based Rural Technology Centre, Kiphire Extension Centre, and the Entrepreneurship Development Centre under the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship. These initiatives collectively strengthen Nagaland’s skill development ecosystem, fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance.
As the world transitions into the fourth industrial revolution, the Centre of Excellence Industry 4.0 – Srujan positions Nagaland as a key player in India’s technological landscape. By equipping youth with skills in advanced manufacturing and automation, it not only enhances employability but also encourages entrepreneurial ventures that can address local and regional challenges.
(India CSR)
