Tag: dailyprompt-2108

NICDC and CEPT University hold workshop on sustainable design for administrative buildings in India’s new greenfield industrial Smart Cities

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The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation Limited (NICDC), under the administrative control of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, in collaboration with the CEPT Advisory Foundation (CAF) of  the Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT) University, organised a workshop to discuss the sustainable design of administrative buildings for 12 new greenfield industrial smart cities recently approved by the Government of India. This first-of-its-kind workshop, held on October 24, 2024, at the CEPT University campus in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, focused on highlighting sustainable design concepts such as biophilic architecture, integrated and inclusive planning, energy efficiency, and climatic bio-massing.

It has been envisioned that administrative buildings in these futuristic smart cities will embody these advanced principles to create uniquely designed structures that contribute to eco-friendly urban landscapes.The workshop was held to inspire Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and state officials to participate in discussions on emerging technologies and sustainable practices on both national and global levels.

Participants engaged in two detailed sessions during the workshop. In the initial session, the emphasis was placed on the value of good design and its role in creating appealing, functional workspaces. Distinguished architects demonstrated exemplary projects to showcase the advantages of innovative designs, while open discussions were held on the latest design trends and implementation challenges. This session was led by renowned professionals, including Ms. Aparna Khemani from Gensler, Mr. Bedanta Saikia from Edifice, and Mr. Ambrish Arora from Studio Lotus.

In the second part of the workshop, the CAF team outlined a robust and transparent process for procuring architectural services. This presentation emphasized the importance of balancing quality and cost in commissioning competent designers through a reliable and thorough process. This session was facilitated by Mr. Prasad Jasti from Jacobs and Mr. Avanish Pendarkar, Center Head, CEPT Urban Planning and Design Foundation – CoE.

CEO and MD, NICDC, Shri Rajat Kumar Saini, IAS, stressed the significance of developing unique, iconic administrative buildings in the industrial smart cities being established under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme. The aim of these industrial corridors is to create dynamic zones that stimulate industrial growth, improve logistics, and foster eco-friendly environments. Shri Saini expressed the NICDC’s vision of collaborating with CEPT University and CAF to develop resilient cities equipped to meet the needs of future generations.

CAF Director, Mr. Darshan Parikh, highlighted the importance of this collaboration with NICDC and SPVs, emphasising that CAF is committed to supporting NICDC in realising the vision of iconic buildings across designated locations. Mr. Parikh added, “Together, we aim to work collaboratively to bring the best design competencies for the development of these iconic administrative buildings”.

The workshop concluded with state officials gaining a deeper understanding of the nuances involved in designing and planning context-specific, innovative administrative buildings. This initiative represents a step toward the goal of Viksit Bharat,  showcasing the pivotal role that architecture, culture, design, planning, technology, research play in building a robust and sustainable future.

NICDC, formerly known as the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation, is responsible for developing greenfield industrial smart cities with manufacturing as the primary economic driver, as part of the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme.

CEPT Advisory Foundation (CAF) is a section 8 (non-profit) company that focuses on advisory projects, constituted in November 2023. CAF offers services across nine thematic centres, including urban planning, transport, infrastructure, and water supply and sanitation. Its portfolio includes over 200 projects, ranging from development and strategic plans to feasibility studies and development control regulations.

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Workshop on Building Quality Infrastructure and Enhancing Academic Aspects for Tribal Education Held by NESTS

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National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) successfully organized a workshop on “Building Quality Infrastructure for Tribal Education” on 24th October 2024 at Akashvani Bhawan, New Delhi. This event is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to provide quality educational infrastructure for tribal communities through Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs), ensuring sustainable and effective learning environments.

Shri Ajeet K. Srivastava, Commissioner of NESTS, inaugurated the workshop, emphasizing the critical need for completing EMRS construction on time with emphasis on quality of construction. He stated, “Non completion of good quality EMRS on time means tribal children not going to school which is unacceptable.” He exhorted the participants to take pledge that they would construct EMRS before time by ensuring best quality of construction. Commitment to multifaceted development is evident in NESTS’ initiatives, including modern educational programs like the Amazon Future Engineering program and the organization of a Principal’s Conclave focused on academic and administrative excellence. This holistic approach underscores the importance of providing both high-quality infrastructure and advanced educational opportunities for tribal students.

Shri Ajeet K. Srivastava, Commissioner, NESTS addressing the gathering.

The workshop covered essential technical aspects such as geotechnical investigations, material testing, earthwork, and the reinforcement of construction practices in tribal areas. Participants included civil engineers, project managers, and architects, all eager to share best practices and insights from the newly launched handbook titled “Building Quality Infrastructure for Tribal Education.”

Interactive sessions focused on project planning, architectural layouts, and specific reinforcement issues related to tribal education infrastructure. Participants emphasized the importance of aligning construction practices with the unique geographical and cultural contexts of tribal regions for sustainable development.

Throughout the day, expert speakers provided valuable insights, fostering collaboration and innovative solutions to infrastructure challenges.

Topics included quality assurance during the construction process, effective material testing methodologies, and strategies for successful project planning. Interactive Q&A sessions allowed participants to address specific issues related to EMRS development, facilitating knowledge exchange and practical problem-solving.

This pioneering workshop represents a significant step forward in NESTS’ mission to enhance educational access and quality for tribal communities, reaffirming its vision of providing equal opportunities for all tribal students.

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