In a significant move to bolster space technology education and research, Chandigarh University, through its Kalpana Chawla Centre (KCC), has inaugurated the KCC Space Technology & Research Program 2026 and the KCC Summer Internship Program 2026 at its campus. The month-long national-level initiative, running from June 15 to July 11, 2026, brings together leading space scientists, satellite technologists, and semiconductor experts from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), and other premier scientific institutions to mentor the next generation of innovators and researchers. The program aims to provide students with valuable insights into emerging space technologies and hands-on exposure to cutting-edge developments shaping India's rapidly evolving space sector.
Inaugural Ceremony Highlights
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr. S Sudhakar, Deputy Director of U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), ISRO, as the Chief Guest, while Prof. Priyadarshnam, Head and Project Director of SSPACE at IIST, attended as the Guest of Honour. Distinguished guests included Dr. Kamaljeet Singh, Director General of Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), Chandigarh, and Sri Jothy Soman, Group Director of URSC, ISRO.
Dr. S Sudhakar's Address
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. S Sudhakar emphasized the role of science and technology in India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. He stated, "Science is going to govern the world, and space technology will be one of the most important drivers of that transformation. One of the most important lessons young engineers and researchers can learn from ISRO's journey is the value of developing indigenous technologies. We have achieved world-class results by building our own capabilities and relying on the talent of our people. Technology does not come free, and acquiring it from elsewhere often comes at a significant cost. When we develop technologies ourselves, we not only reduce costs but also gain strategic advantages and self-reliance." He added that communication, navigation, scientific exploration, and strategic applications will increasingly depend on advancements in the space sector, with growing demand for space-based services including surveillance, communication, and navigation systems. The defence sector is also expanding its space-based capabilities in collaboration with ISRO. Dr. Sudhakar highlighted ISRO's ambitious roadmap extending to 2047, including advanced exploration missions and long-term human spaceflight missions, and stressed the need for continued investment in indigenous technologies and infrastructure.
Prof. Priyadarshnam's Insights
Prof. Priyadarshnam highlighted ISRO's culture of frugal innovation and rigorous testing, stating, "One of the key lessons from its journey is the importance of precision, rigorous testing, and human expertise. While automation has its place, mission success ultimately depends on meticulous development, validation, and the dedication of scientists and engineers." He noted that quantum technology will be a major thrust area in the future, with research organizations including ISRO already working on quantum cryptography and quantum communications. Artificial intelligence will also have a profound impact on the space sector, particularly for analyzing the enormous volume of data generated by modern space missions. He emphasized that space technology will play a major role in India's future development and that indigenous innovation and technological self-reliance are crucial for overcoming challenges. He added, "India's greatest strength lies in its talent, and we must increase our workforce in this critical sector."
Dr. Kamaljeet Singh on Semiconductors
Dr. Kamaljeet Singh, Director General of Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), underscored the importance of semiconductors as the foundation of the digital economy. He noted that under the India Semiconductor Mission, significant progress is being made with multiple manufacturing and assembly plants being established across the country. "Our objective is to build a robust, full-stack semiconductor ecosystem that reduces import dependence and strengthens India's technological capabilities. Semiconductors are critical for strategic sectors including space, telecommunications, defence, artificial intelligence, and advanced computing." He stressed the need to strengthen manufacturing, deployment, and application ecosystems, and to leverage India's vast data resources to develop indigenous technologies and sovereign AI models.
Program Structure
Over the next four weeks, nearly 15 eminent scientists, directors, senior researchers, and technical experts from premier national institutions including ISRO, IIST, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), and other leading organizations will engage with Chandigarh University students and faculty through an intensive series of technical training sessions, expert lectures, laboratory demonstrations, mentoring programmes, research discussions, and interactive workshops.
About Chandigarh University
Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC. CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programmes in fields such as engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as the University with Best Placements by WCRC.
