Bengaluru, April 9: Smile Foundation, in collaboration with Ashirvad by Aliaxis, organized a seminar on “Innovative Technologies in Plumbing” in Bengaluru, bringing together industry leaders, Sector Skill Councils, and training organizations to drive innovation and skill development in the plumbing sector.
The seminar highlighted a significant opportunity to transform the sector by training 44% of the workforce in modern plumbing technologies, thereby boosting employment and supporting India’s rapid urban and infrastructure growth. It served as a platform for cross-industry dialogue on accelerating technology adoption, expanding on-ground training, and building a future-ready plumbing ecosystem.
The event witnessed participation from key industry stakeholders, including representatives from Prestige Group, Kohler, Cemindia Projects Limited, the Water Management and Plumbing Sector Skill Council, and Ashirvad Training Academy.
A key highlight of the seminar was “Plumber Saathi,” an initiative by Ashirvad by Aliaxis, implemented by Smile Foundation. The program offers free, on-site and community-based training to plumbers, enabling them to upgrade their skills at their workplace or residence through practical, hands-on learning.
Santanu Mishra, Co-founder & Executive Trustee, Smile Foundation, said,
“Bringing training closer to where plumbers live and work is key to unlocking the sector’s full potential. Through initiatives like Plumber Saathi, we are equipping plumbers with advanced skills, improving their livelihoods, and strengthening the foundation for a future-ready plumbing ecosystem.”
Sudeep Agrawal, CFO & Head – CSR, Ashirvad by Aliaxis, added,
“Investing in the skilling of plumbers is both a social responsibility and a strategic imperative. By equipping them with advanced tools and technologies, we are enhancing livelihoods while ensuring India’s urban infrastructure is built on quality, efficiency, and sustainability.”
Discussions at the seminar focused on the integration of advanced plumbing technologies, including retrofitting ageing infrastructure, adoption of smart plumbing systems, and addressing challenges in high-rise buildings such as pressure management and waste systems. Experts also emphasized the role of smart water metering and automation in improving efficiency, reducing water loss, and promoting sustainable water usage.
The seminar concluded with a collective call to action for stakeholders to collaborate in driving innovation, expanding skilling initiatives, and building a skilled, inclusive, and technology-driven plumbing workforce aligned with India’s urbanization and sustainability goals.
