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LITU to become a hub for Centre of Excellence on Pyrotechnic Innovations

LITU to become a hub for Centre of Excellence on Pyrotechnic Innovations

Time of India2 days ago
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Nagpur: City's Laxminarayan Innovation Technological University (LITU) along with Sivakasi will host one of the two hubs for Centre of Excellence (CoE) on Pyrotechnic Innovations soon.
The step is aimed at revitalizing India's Rs6,000 crore fireworks industry, which will safeguard the livelihoods of over five lakh workers, and supporting startups.
A proposal to this effect was moved during the 2-day National Workshop on 'Eco-Friendly Pyrotechnics Innovations for Civilian, Agricultural, and Industrial Applications' held on August 9-10. Laxminarayan Innovation Technological University (LITU) and Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers' Association (TANFAMA) were the co-hosts of the workshop.
The inaugural session was attended by Padmashri Dr GD Yadav, chairman, BoG, LITU, vice-chancellor Dr Atul Vaidya; chief guests Prof TM Klapötke and Dr Rusan from Ludwig-Maximilian University, Germany; P Ganesan, president, TANFAMA; LITU registrar Dr Niraj Khaty; and adjunct professor Dr Sadhana Rayalu.
Dr Saurabh Joglekar conducted the proceedings.
Demonstrations of eco-friendly combustion products — including green incense sticks, biomass pellets, and eco-engineered coke — along with hands-on training, were conducted at the LITU campus.
The event brought together scientists, technologists, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss sustainable, low-emission pyrotechnic technologies.
Two MoUs were signed — one between LITU, TANFAMA, and Ludwig-Maximilian University for green pyrotechnic innovations across civilian, agricultural, military, and industrial sectors; and another between LITU and CarnDu Limited, UK. Dr Rayalu played a pivotal role in facilitating the agreements.
Distinguished speakers included Dr Yadav, Prof Klapötke, Prof Pawan Khanna (DIAT, Pune), Dr Tom Smith (UK Explosives Industry Group), and experts from CSIR-CECRI, CSIR-Neeri, and LITU.
Dr Vaidya stressed the role of eco-friendly innovations in achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat. The workshop concluded with live demonstrations of smokeless firecrackers and training on second-generation eco-friendly fireworks. Dr Rayalu and P Ganesan convened the event, with Dr Khaty proposed a vote of thanks.
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