Patna

February 8, 2026

C-DAC Patna, in collaboration with Software Technology Parks of India (STPI Deoghar), launched “हुलउन्नयन: Deep Tech Skilling & Tribal Development Initiatives for Jharkhand” on February 8th, 2026. The initiative aims to position Jharkhand as an emerging technology hub by equipping tribal communities with advanced digital skills and fostering innovation-driven growth.The programme was inaugurated at STPI Deoghar by Dr. Nishikant Dubey, Hon’ble Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Communications and IT, in the presence of Shri Aditya Kumar Sinha, Executive Director, C-DAC Mumbai; Shri Abhinav Dixit, Centre Head, C-DAC Patna; and Shri Rajesh Tripathi, Director (HRD), C-DAC. The event also saw participation from officials of C-DAC Patna and STPI Deoghar, along with representatives from leading academic institutions, reflecting strong institutional support for the initiative.

Highlighting the historical relevance of the initiative, Hon’ble MP, Dr. Nishikant Dubey remarked that the name ‘हुलउन्नयन’draws inspiration from the Santhal Hul of 1855 - a movement for dignity and rights. He stated that this modern ‘Hul’ symbolizes technological empowerment, self-reliance, and opportunity for tribal youth. He underscored that providing access to advanced digital infrastructure and future-ready skills will bridge the digital divide, generate employment, and accelerate regional economic development.

Shri Abhinav Dixit, Scientist G and Centre Head, C-DAC Patna, emphasized that the mission of ‘हुलउन्नयन’ goes beyond conventional academic learning. He stated that the initiative is designed to build a practical, innovation-driven ecosystem at the grassroots level, enabling students from rural and tribal backgrounds to gain hands-on exposure to advanced technologies, research facilities, and incubation support.

Speaking about the significance of the event, Shri Aditya Kumar Sinha, Executive Director, C-DAC Mumbai, stated that ‘हुल उन्नयन’represents a strategic step toward inclusive digital transformation. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with MeitY’s vision of democratizing access to emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, High-Performance Computing, Drone Technology, and Cybersecurity. By building local capacity and strengthening institutional partnerships, he noted, Jharkhand can emerge as a competitive technology hub in eastern India.

He further emphasized that the initiative is not only about introducing advanced technologies such as AI, High-Performance Computing, Drone Systems, and Cybersecurity, but also about integrating Jharkhand’s rich traditional tribal knowledge with modern technological frameworks. He noted that indigenous knowledge systems, whether related to healthcare practices, agriculture, ecology, or language, can be digitized, preserved, enhanced, and scaled using technology, thereby creating sustainable economic and social value for tribal communities.

The programme will roll out in three clear stages, starting immediately:

• Skill Development Programmes: The first phase offers workshops for students and teachers, including:
  1. Drone Technology Bootcamp: Hands-on bootcamps for technology enthusiasts.
  2. Master Trainer Programme: Workshops to help local communities stay safe online.
  3. Faculty Development: Helping educators bring AI and new tech into the classroom.
• Regional Innovation Hub: A state-of-the-art center will be established at STPI Deoghar, with specialized labs where students can get hands-on experience with modern tech and an incubator to help local entrepreneurs start their own businesses.
• Research for Social Good: The final stage establishes four dedicated centers to solve local problems:
  1. Tribal Health: Using technology to tackle specific health issues like Sickle Cell Anemia in partnership with AIIMS Deoghar.
  2. Language Preservation: Using digital tools to ensure tribal languages and traditions flourish in the digital age.
  3. Next-Gen Learning: Preparing youth for high-paying jobs in future tech industries.

The programme aims to train over 5,000 individuals, support more than 50 startups, and generate direct employment opportunities within the state. The launch of ‘हुल उन्नयन’marks a transformative milestone in Jharkhand’s journey toward indigenous technology leadership and inclusive digital growth, laying the foundation for tribal youth to actively shape India’s high-tech future.