New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu is set to inaugurate a groundbreaking two-day International Conference-cum-Exhibition titled 'Aerospace and Aviation in 2047' in New Delhi, beginning on November 18, according to official sources.

Organized by the Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI), the event will take place at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre and is slated to be graced by President Droupadi Murmu as the Chief Guest for the opening ceremony, as confirmed by a press release from the Ministry of Defence.

Distinguished guests scheduled to attend the event include Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and MoS, Prime Minister's Office Dr Jitendra Singh; Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Road Transport & Highways General (Dr) VK Singh (Retd), and Raksha Rajya Mantri Ajay Bhatt.

The primary aim of this conference-cum-exhibition is to celebrate the 75th anniversary of AeSI's excellence. The inaugural session will witness the unveiling of a Compendium highlighting 75 years of India's aerospace & aviation journey, alongside the presentation of the Vision Document 2047. This event intends to spotlight India's evolution in this field, showcasing achievements, technological advancements, and the pivotal role of visionary leaders, as mentioned in the press release.

Anticipated to draw 1,500 delegates, including dignitaries, international experts, scientists, industrialists, academia, start-ups, and students, the event will feature participation from about 200 industries and MSMEs, with over 75 start-ups showcasing indigenous capabilities at the exhibition. Numerous heads of organizations and departments are lined up to deliver visionary talks during the conference.

The technical sessions are set to host speakers from globally renowned entities such as Safran, Rolls Royce, Lockheed Martin, MIT USA, Cranefield UK, and eminent Indian scientists, technologists, and service officers. Additionally, the event will present a start-up challenge spanning the nation, where finalists will present innovative ideas and products along with their vision for India's aerospace growth by 2047. Several engaging events for the youth are also planned.

Established in 1948 with the Prime Minister as its Patron-in-chief, AeSI's primary objective is to advance and disseminate aeronautical sciences and aircraft engineering knowledge across industry, academia, and research laboratories.

The society has played a pivotal role in the aerospace and aviation domain, boasting luminaries such as Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, Dr Satish Dhawan, Dr VS Arunachalam, and Dr VK Saraswat among its members and Presidents. It has significantly contributed to the growth of India's aerospace industry by fostering collaborations between the government, private sector, and academia, nurturing a robust aerospace ecosystem, the release highlighted.

Represented by esteemed aerospace professionals from research organizations, aerospace industries, and academia, AeSI is currently led by former Secretary, Department of Defence R&D & Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy as President, and Chairman, ISRO S Somanath as the President-Elect.

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