DST-Technology Enabling Centre University of Ladakh in collaboration with Hydrocarbon Skill Council HSSC organized a two-day Workshop on "Solar Roof-top cum industry connection". This workshop aimed to connect local budding entrepreneurs and students with industry experts from various reputed organizations and industry experts and to encourage people of Ladakh to utilize solar renewable energy.

The workshop was inaugurated by the Chief Guest Dr. Pawan kotwal (IAS), Chief Secretary cum Advisor to Hon’ble Lt. Governor, in presence of Prof. (Dr.) S.K. Mehta, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor/Coordinator TEC, University of Ladakh. The event was graced by the presence of Dr. Om Prakash Chaurasia, Director DIHAR Leh, Shri. S.K. Bose, CEO Hydrocarbon Sector Skill Council, Dr. Subash Deshmukh, Director, NCVET, MSDE, GoI.

Prof. S.K. Mehta Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the distinguished dignitaries and esteemed experts for attending the workshop. In his speech, Prof. S.K. Mehta addressed the scope of solar energy in Ladakh, government initiative schemes, and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Dr. Pawan Kotwal Encouraging the people of Ladakh to use solar energy and install solar rooftops is a smart and forward-looking idea. Dr. Kotwal highlighted that Ladakh receives abundant sunshine throughout the year, making it perfect for producing solar power. The region's open spaces and bright weather create great opportunities for harnessing this clean and renewable energy.

Dr. Subhash Deshmukh, Director, NCVET, MSDE, GoI, emphasised green energy transition, circular economy, and ESG skills, presenting innovative solutions such as floating solar, dual land use, bifacial solar panel, solar farms and e-waste recycling for solar applications. He also added that the sustainable energy transition is not just a necessity but an opportunity to redefine how we power our world-cleaner, smarter and more equitable.

Shri. S.K. Bose, CEO of the Hydrocarbon Sector Skill Council, highlighted the Skill India Mission and the benefits of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. He also emphasized the opportunities for entrepreneurship development in the renewable energy sector, including solar and green hydrogen fuel. The workshop also included field visits to NTPC's world highest-altitude (3,650 meters above sea level) Green Hydrogen fuelling station, showcasing solar-powered hydrogen generation, hydrogen-operated bus project.

Shri. B.N. Singh, General Manager of WAAREE ENERGIES, discussed Ladakh’s solar potential and the functioning of solar energy systems. He also educated participants about the basics of PV technology, the benefits of On Grid PV systems, designing a rooftop solar PV system, and the standards of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

On 2^nd day, the Guest of Honour Ms. Bhanu Prabha (IAS), Secretary Hr. Edu./School Edu. & Skill Dev. delivered an inspiring keynote address highlighting Scope of solar energy potential in Ladakh. She also emphasizes the youth of Ladakh to upgrade the skill related to identify, assess and diagnose the cause of damage to solar panel. Ms. Bhanu Prabha congratulated Prof. Dr. S.K. Mehta for his visionary ideas and tireless efforts in securing various projects for the university, as well as for his firm dedication to elevating the University of Ladakh

Dr. Iftikar Ahmed, Director of LAREDA, addressed critical issues related to the implementation of solar power plants for nomadic communities. He highlighted challenges such as mobility and maintenance and emphasized the need for innovative and portable solar solutions for the nomads. Dr. Ahmed also discussed the growing concern of e-waste management, urging consideration of this issue before adopting solar components

Shri. Konchok Tharchin, Demazong Enterprise, shared his experience as a local entrepreneur, detailing the challenges and opportunities he faced while building his business in the community. From identifying market needs to overcoming resource constraints, he highlighted the importance of solar energy and opportunities for local.

At the conclusion of the workshop, certificates were distributed to all participants, recognizing their active involvement and contribution to the workshop.

The workshop concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Mehboob Ali, Co-Coordinator TEC. He expressed his gratitude to Dr. Pawan Kotwal (IAS), Chief Secretary cum Advisor to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Ms. Bhanu Prabha (IAS), Secretary of Higher Education, School Education, Technical Education & Skill Development, Dr. Om Prakash Chaurasia, Director of DIHAR Leh, Dr. Subash Deshmukh, Director of NCVET, MSDE, GoI, Shri. S.K. Bose, CEO of the Hydrocarbon Sector Skill Council, and the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) S.K. Mehta. He also extended his thanks to the organizing members, all faculty members of the University of Ladakh, the experts, and the participants for making the workshop a resounding success