On July 5, 2025, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Hon’ble Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated the Indian Council for Technical Research and Development (ICTRD) Secretariat and Incubation Centre at Adarsh Nagar Ground, Nagpur. The facility is designed to support regional growth through grassroots innovation, skill development, and entrepreneurship. The event featured a walkthrough of the new premises, traditional lamp lighting, and a digital launch of ICTRD’s technology platform, marking a new chapter in Vidarbha’s journey toward technological advancement and self-reliance.
Dr. Ketan Mohitkar: Leading the Vision
Dr. Ketan Mohitkar, Member Secretary of ICTRD, played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and establishing the centre. With a strong background in innovation, technology, and public service, Dr. Mohitkar has built ICTRD into a platform that nurtures startups, empowers youth, and promotes research-led development across Maharashtra. During the ceremony, he welcomed dignitaries warmly and expressed gratitude to Nitin Gadkari for his continued guidance and support in realizing this vision.
Nitin Gadkari’s Vision for Self-Reliant Growth
In his keynote address, Nitin Gadkari emphasized the importance of transforming India’s youth from job seekers into job creators, underlining the rapid growth of India’s startup ecosystem. He praised ICTRD for its practical initiatives such as electric tractors, drone-assisted farming, and organic produce commercialization. Gadkari also highlighted upcoming projects, including the establishment of a Global University for Logistics and Skill Development in Butibori, along with plans to strengthen the region’s orange economy, positioning Vidarbha as a hub of sustainable growth.
Dignitaries and Celebration at ICTRD Secretariat Building Inauguration
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several esteemed dignitaries, including Ajay Sancheti, Dr. Vikas Mahatme, Sanjay Bhende, Nanda Jichkar, Lahu Kumarji, CA Milind Kanade, Dr. Yogesh Bonde, and Dr. Ashish Sasankar. Rajesh Gadewar delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the dedication of the ICTRD team. Following the formal proceedings, a special dinner was hosted for all attendees, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration.
The evening was further enlivened by live music performances, adding a festive touch to the event and highlighting the spirit of innovation and community collaboration that ICTRD aims to promote. Nitin Gadkari concluded by reaffirming his commitment to supporting ICTRD’s mission to build a technology-driven, future-ready Vidarbha, inspiring hope for a prosperous and self-reliant region.
