The conference aims to serve as a premier platform for industry leaders, academicians, researchers, and regulatory experts to discuss advancements in pharmaceutical research, drug development, and industry-academia collaboration. Given India’s crucial role in global healthcare, the event is expected to provide key insights into strengthening research and development (R&D) capabilities while maintaining affordability in the pharma sector.

Key highlights of the conference include keynote addresses by national and international pharma experts, panel discussions on emerging collaborations, scientific presentations, poster sessions, exhibitions, specialized workshops, and networking opportunities.

Eminent personalities such as Dr. Montukumar M. Patel, President of PCI, and Mr. Namit Joshi, Chairman of Pharmexcil (Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India), will be the chief guests. Other distinguished speakers include Dr. Deependra Singh, Chairman-PERC, Central Council PCI members Dr. M. Niranjan Babu and Dr. Akash Ved.

Renowned experts from the pharmaceutical industry and academia will deliver keynote speeches, including:

Dr. Ravindra Vikram Singh, Director & Head-R&D, Merck India,

Dr. Kailash C. Petkar, Senior Scientist, DSIR, Ministry of Science & Technology,

Dr. Arun Kumar Pandey, Senior VP-R&D, Alkem Laboratories Ltd.,

Dr. Aljosa Bolje, Expert (AS & T), Novartis, Slovenia,

Dr. Pranab K. Patra, Head-R&D, ADAMA,

Ms. Medha Pratap, Senior Director-Clinical Network, EME Morley, UK,

Dr. Ravindra Rawal, Principal Scientist (CS&T Division), CSIR-NEIST, Assam,

Dr. Chew Yik Ling, Associate Professor, UCSI University, Malaysia,

Prof. (Dr.) D Subhakar, Vice Chancellor of Amity University Bengaluru, emphasized that the conference would provide a unique platform for delegates to network, exchange groundbreaking insights, and foster innovation through strategic industry-academia collaborations.

Dr. P.S. Sali, Vice President-Academics, highlighted India’s role in meeting global healthcare demands through pharmaceutical production, stating that the conference would be highly relevant in addressing challenges and opportunities in the sector.

Prof. (Dr.) Amit Verma, Director-Research (i/c) and Organizing Secretary of the conference, announced that delegates would have the opportunity to participate in a specialized workshop on computational chemistry and molecular modeling. He also revealed that over 250 research papers have been received, and the conference is expected to attract more than 500 delegates from India and across the globe.

The event is anticipated to drive discussions on the future of pharmaceutical innovations and regulatory advancements, strengthening India’s position as a global leader in the pharma industry.

Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, Hon’ble Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, Government of India; Dr. M.B. Patil, Solid Thinker, Minister for Large & Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development, Government of Karnataka; Shri Lakshmesh B.H., Vice President and Head, Aerospace and Systems Business, Larsen & Toubro Limited; and Shri Prasant Doreshwami, President and CEO, Continental Automotive (India) Private Limited, lit the inaugural lamp.

Shri Jamshyad N. Godrej, President – Exhibitions, IMTMA; Shri Rajendra S. Rajamane, President, IMTMA; Smt. Mohini Kelkar, Vice President, IMTMA; and Shri Jibak Dasgupta, Director General and CEO, IMTMA were also present at the inauguration.
Chief Guest Shri Kumaraswamy, who has travelled to many countries, mentioned in his speech, “A strong machine tool industry is very important for a sustainable manufacturing sector. Karnataka produces 50% of the machine tools in India and is known as the machine tool capital of India.”

Then Dr. M.B. Patil, the special guest, said in his speech, “The machine tool industry is fundamental to manufacturing, and its growth is significant. Metal cutting is a key factor in this growth.” Shri Laxmesh B.H. said in his speech, “IMTEX is a milestone in integrating ideas and best practices.” Shri Prasant Doreshwami said, “The machine tool industry is a major player in the automotive sector, involving many industries, with 55% of India’s machine tool production being used in the auto industry.” Mr. Jamshyad N. Godrej in his welcome address said, “This IMTEX is the biggest yet, the exhibition has been a success with the great support of the exhibitors and guests.”

Mr. Rajendra S. Rajamane said in the inauguration, “Safety has positioned India at the 9th position in production and 6th position in consumption globally.” IMTEX 2025, to be held from 23 to 29 January 2025, is a major exhibition that will bring together leaders, policy makers and new technologies from the machine tool user industry globally.

New products showcased at IMTEX 2025 include smart and intelligent machines, high precision, high performance, multi-functionality, integrated machines, special purpose machines, robots, cobots, AGVs, tools, attachable tools, manufacturing software, 3D printers, 3D printing solutions, integrated Industry 4.0 hardware, software and many more technologies.

The inaugural function commenced with the welcome address by Dr. N V R Naidu, Principal of M S Ramaiah Institute of Technology, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests and emphasized the importance of research and innovation for a sustainable future.

Dr. Harish Barshilia, Chief Guest of the conference and Cluster Chairman of Materials at CSIR- National Aerospace Laboratories, Bengaluru, delivered the inaugural address. Dr. Barshilia highlighted India’s commitment to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, the drive towards achieving Net-Zero emissions, and the country’s ambitious solar power and mineral exploration initiatives. He emphasized the role of advanced materials in achieving these goals.

The Guest of Honour, Prof. Ashok M Raichur from the Department of Materials Engineering at IISc, Bengaluru, spoke on the significance of material technology in everyday life. He discussed recent advancements in recycling, composites, ceramics, and additive manufacturing, underscoring the essential role of sustainable materials in addressing environmental challenges.

Dr. Karisiddappa, Chief Academic Advisor at Gokula Education Foundation (Engineering & General Sciences), addressed the audience on the characteristics of materials and the challenges of durability, energy consumption, water usage, and carbon emissions. His insights highlighted the need for innovative solutions in material sciences.

Dr. Parswanath H V, Chief Executive of GEF (Engineering & General Sciences), spoke on the critical importance of responsible disposal and sustainable lifecycle management of materials. The presidential address was delivered by Dr. M R Seetharam, Vice-Chairman of Gokula Education Foundation, Director of Ramaiah Institute of Technology, and Member of the Legislative Council, Government of Karnataka. Dr. Seetharam emphasized Karnataka’s leadership in resource harvesting, the exploitation of non-conventional energy sources, and the importance of safety in material applications. He also discussed the ongoing initiatives and challenges in achieving sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all dignitaries, participants, and organizers for making the conference a success. ICRAES 2024 will continue with technical sessions addressing innovations in material technology, sustainable engineering practices, and next-generation materials, aligning with India’s vision for a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

While delivering the inaugural speech Shri. Giriraj Singh, Minister of Textiles, Government of India said that country will develop through innovation in farming. Bio-fertilizer is the future and the right way to approach farming. He said that the world is moving towards sustainable farming and about 110 million hector is under natural farming across the world, while in India the area under sustainable farming is about 3.6 million hectors.

He said that about 20 to 27% of the Indian farmers currently uses green and organic fertilizers which is about the same ratio as the world. Multiplex is leading the way in production of organic fertilizers. According to him we need to stop using chemical fertilizers as it is both harmful to the soil and human health, for a healthy India organic is the way.

Shri Giriraj Singh stated that the government of India’s goal is to become carbon neutral by 2030 and by 2070 the country will be carbon negative. Bio-fertilizers, sustainable farming, e-tractors, e-vehicles all will help in achieving our sustainable goals.

Mahesh G Shetty, Managing Director of Multiplex Group of Companies said “As we celebrate our Golden Jubilee, we stand at a pivotal moment in our journey, reflecting on 50 years of dedication, growth, and remarkable achievements. This milestone serves as a testament to the collective efforts of all who have contributed to our legacy, from our visionary founders to our present-day leaders, farmer community, staff, dealers and stakeholders”.

“Throughout the past five decades, we have transformed challenges into opportunities, making significant strides in key areas of achievement: namely Innovation, Service, Research & Development, Community development, Sustainability etc. Our unwavering commitment to excellence has earned us a position of prominence, not only in India, but also in the broader global landscape. We celebrate the impact we’ve made and the values that have shaped our success such as integrity, innovation, teamwork, dedication and collaboration” he added

Mr. Shetty stated “as we look to the future, we are more determined than ever to build on our accomplishments in terms of quality Agro inputs. The next chapter of our story will be one of continued innovation, expansion, and a deepened commitment to our future goals in Agri technology, such as enhancing sustainability, diversity, digital transformation and community engagement etc. We are excited to build further ahead, driven by a clear vision and guided by the lessons of our rich history”.

Shri. Ram Nath Thakur, Hon Minister for State, Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Government of India stressed on the need for supporting the country’s farming community in adopting sustainable farming practices. He urged Multiplex and other organic fertilizer manufacturers to focus on providing innovation and cost effective solutions for farming,

Minister for Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, Shri. N. Cheluvarayaswamy said that the Indian farmers need to adopt organic fertilizers and natural farming, He also lauded the effort of Multiplex Group, a company from Karnataka leading the way in bio fertilizers in the country.  

The Multiplex Group has been at the forefront of the agricultural sector since its inception in 1974. As industry leaders, the company specialize in manufacturing and distribution of a comprehensive range of agricultural inputs. Multiplex portfolio includes fertilizers, pesticides, nutrients (both major and minor), organic manure, bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides, and bio-stimulants. The reach of Multiplex products extends to more than 17 countries, including Japan, Korea, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Sri Lanka, and various Arab nations.

The announcement took place at a curtain-raiser event in Bengaluru, graced by esteemed dignitaries including Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for IT & BT and RDPR, Government of Karnataka;Shri MB Patil, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce & Industries and Infrastructure, Government of Karnataka; Shri. Sharath Bachegowda, Chairman KEONICS;Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Dept of E, IT, Bt, Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka; Ms. Gunjan Krishna, IAS Commissioner for Industrial Development, Director for Industries and Commerce, Government of Karnataka;Shri Prashanth Prakash, Chairman of Karnataka Start-up Vision Group and Partner, Accel; Shri BV Naidu, Chairman of Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM); ShriAmit Gupta, Chair, TiEGlobal;Shri. Sanjeev Gupta, CEO, KDEM;Shri Jagdish Patankar, Executive Chairman of MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications, Ms. Lakshmi Pratury, Founder CEO INK Talks/TGS Curation Partner and Shri Madan Padaki, Chair of TGS24 and President of TiE Bangalore.

The dignitaries unveiled the TGS24 Logo – “Ekam Flame of Entrepreneurship” bringing in the elements of entrepreneurial energy andthe unifiedpurpose of “Putting Entrepreneurship First”.

Madan Padaki shared key details about TGS 2024, including the theme, dates, venue, speaker and sponsor information. TGS 2024 will host a range of events , challenges and networking events like Future Sparks: Leaders in Conversations, TGS100 Challenge that brings together the brightest Emerging Start-ups globally, Rural Student Innovator Conclave, TiE Global Women Pitch Competition & Conclave , Futurepreneurs Conclave,VentuRISEChallenge by Invest Karnataka, EdVentures for Academia, Cultural Entrepreneurship Conclave at Mysuru, #SpiritofTiE Global Awards,  various sectoral Tracks across Deeptech, AI, Biotech, Agritech, Fintech, Climate-tech,  MSMEs, Circular Economy, Social Enterprises, Start-up Ecosystems, Family Offices, Incubators/Accelerators, Mentoring Clinics & Pitch Sessions Networking Evenings, Art & Music Experiences and a large pavilion that will host booths and learning zones.

The event also announced that registration for the 2nd edition of the VentuRISE Global Startup Challenge, an initiative by the GOK, is now open for global start-ups. VentuRISE ’24 will concentrate on Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM), Auto/Clean Mobility, and Aerospace &Defence. This challenge offers startups a platform to tackle industry issues and connect with investors/corporate accelerators.

“We are committed to fostering a thriving startup ecosystem. VentuRISE ’24 is a testament to our dedication to supporting innovative entrepreneurs who are driving the future of manufacturing and allied sectors. The Startup Challenge initiative aims to position Karnataka as a global innovation hub, promoting the state as a preferred destination for startups in manufacturing and allied sectors by facilitating connections with investors and industry partners. We are thrilled to participate with TiE Global for the VentuRISE ’24 event and we are committed to making this year’s event even bigger and better by introducing new initiatives, expanding mentorship programs and attracting a wider pool of global investors.”, said Shri M.B. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Large and Medium Industries

Prashanth Prakash, Chairman of Karnataka Start-up Vision Group said, “This event presents an immense opportunity, akin to the Olympics of Entrepreneurship, for start-ups and ecosystem actors worldwide to bask in the vibrant energy of innovation and collaboration. The initiatives launched here, coupled with invaluable networking and learning opportunities, will propel our entrepreneurs to new heights, ensuring a lasting and positive impact on our economy. By having investors from across the globe to experience the vibrant stories of Indian entrepreneurs with their innovative business models, we have an opportunity to position ourselves as the leader of innovation in the world”

At the event, Madan Padaki, Chair of TGS24 and President of TiE Bangalore stated:“We are thrilled to bring TiE Global Summit 2024 to Bengaluru &Karnataka.Our chosen theme, ‘Putting Entrepreneurship First,’ aligns with our mission to foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem world-wide. This summit is more than just a gathering; it’s a catalyst for ideas to meet opportunities, and to ignite possibilities that can shape the future of our societies. We are delighted to be supported by the Government of Karnataka as the State Host Partner and look forward to working together with the entire ecosystem in taking our model of entrepreneurship to the next orbit”

Registrations for TGS 2024 are now open. Participants are encouraged to register now to secure their early bird offers at this prestigious summit, which will feature a comprehensive schedule of master classes, keynote addresses, mentoring clinics, investor pitching sessions and networking opportunities. For more information and to register, please visit: https://tgs2024.org/

The three-day event is set to take place from August 1-3rd, 2024 at The Lalit, Bengaluru. The event is organized by the Dept. of Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, Karnataka Science & Technology Promotion Society (KSTEPS) and Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR).

The curtain raiser programme was also graced by Prof. Navakanta Bhat, Chair, Vision Group on Nanotechnology, Government of Karnataka, Dean, Division of Interdisciplinary Sciences, Professor, CENSE, IISc, Bengaluru, Prof. P. S. Anil Kumar, Chair, CEC – Bengaluru INDIA NANO 2024, Dean, Administration & Finance, Professor, Dept. of Physics, IISc, Bengaluru; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Dept. of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka; and Shri Pavan Kumar Malapati, IAS, Director, Dept. of Science & Technology & Managing Director, KSTePS, Government of Karnataka and Shri Jagdish Patankar, Executive Chairman, MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications, the Event Curator of Bengaluru INDIA NANO.

The event theme for this edition was decided, based on the recommendations of the Vision Group on Nanotechnology, following extensive thought and deliberation. Shri N. S. Boseraju, Hon’ble Minister of Minor Irrigation and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka while addressing the gathering said, “If we were to identify the greatest challenges facing humanity today, climate change, energy depletion, and health crises would undoubtedly top the list. Sustainability is not just a buzzword, but is now an impending necessity. The impacts of climate change are increasingly visible, manifesting in rising temperatures, natural calamities, and widespread displacement. Simultaneously, the world is grappling with severe economic and environmental consequences of energy crises. While industries are striving to develop green and clean energy solutions, these efforts alone may not be sufficient to achieve true sustainability. Health challenges, highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, have exposed critical vulnerabilities in healthcare systems globally. This pandemic was neither the first nor will it be the last; thus, our preparedness and resilience are of utmost importance.”

Shri N.S. Boseraju further added, “Nanotechnology holds the promise to deliver small-sized but high impact solutions, which can potentially revolutionize our approach to these global issues. With this background, the theme for this edition of Bengaluru INDIA NANO 2024 is Nanotechnology for Sustainability: Climate, Energy, and Healthcare.”

The 13th edition of Bengaluru INDIA NANO promises to be a landmark gathering, bringing together a diverse array of participants including researchers & scientists, academicians, industry captains, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and students.

The Summit will witness participation of 700+ registered Delegates, 75+ Expert Speakers in over 25 Conference Sessions. Through keynote speeches and engaging panel discussions by eminent experts from around the globe, the conference will address cutting-edge developments in nanotechnology and its applications in climate, energy, healthcare and electronics & semiconductors. Some of the distinguished Speakers and Leaders addressing at the Conference include Prof. Pulickel Ajayan – Chair, Department of Materials Science and Nano Engineering, Rice University; Balajee Sowrirajan – Managing Director, SSIR; – Prof. Neetu Singh – Professor & Head, Center of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi; Prof. Dhirendra Katti – Director, Indian Institute of Technology Goa; Prof. Nitash Balsara – The – Charles W. Tobias Professor in Electrochemistry, University of California, Berkeley & many more.

Pre-conference Tutorials will offer in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in various aspects of nanotechnology, catering to both beginners and seasoned professionals. The Pre-conference Tutorial will delve into key topics including Nano Fabrication, Nano Characterisation, & Nano Biology. A unique initiative for Nanotechnology students is the Nano for the Young Programme, launched by Bharat Ratna Prof. C.N.R. Rao. The Poster Showcase at the event will give an opportunity to more than 175 young researchers from academia & research institutions to display their innovative research posters.
The Exhibition will showcase the latest innovations, products, and technologies from leading companies, research institutions & startups in the field of nanotechnology. 50+ organizations will be showcasing their innovative Nanotech products & services.

The event will witness the bestowing of the coveted ‘Prof. C.N.R. Rao Bengaluru INDIA NANO Science Award’ for making meaningful contributions to Nanoscience. Another prestigious ‘Bengaluru INDIA NANO Innovation Award’ will be presented for Innovative & Disruptive Technology Development in Nanotech. The prestigious Karnataka DST Nanoscience Fellowships will be announced during the glittering awards ceremony.

Other Awards that will be presented include the Nano Excellence Award- to the best researchers in the realm of Nanoscience; Best Poster- The Best Students for revolutionary research; Exhibitor Awards- For the best showcase across various categories.

The 2nd National Nanotech Quiz is moving to the next level with participation of students from across India. The first 2 rounds of the Quiz will be held digitally while the final showdown will take place in-person at the event for the first time, making it a significant occasion in this academic challenge. The event will also host an array of programmes such as NanoSparX- a startup pitching initiative, as well as B2B Partnering Meetings.

To commemorate this significant milestone, Steelcase hosted its first Work Better Conference in Asia, held in Bengaluru, India. This premier event brought together top industry professionals, providing a platform for discussing the latest trends and innovative solutions in office design and functionality.

Attendees of the conference had the opportunity to engage with a distinguished panel of experts, including: Lalit Ahuja, CEO of ANSR Dr. Arvind Subramanian, VP of Human Resources at Reliance Saleem Bhatri, Dean of the Faculty of Design at CEPT University Sunil Suresh, CEO of Stanley Lifestyles. These thought leaders shared their insights on the evolving landscape of workspaces and the critical role of design in fostering collaboration and productivity.

Steelcase unveiled its latest innovation – the Karman® Executive High-Back Chair. This cutting-edge product epitomizes Steelcase’s commitment to combining ergonomic excellence with aesthetic sophistication, designed to meet the highest standards of comfort and functionality for modern executives.

Tirthankar Basu, India Managing Director of Steelcase, shared his enthusiasm about the new product, stating, “We are excited to introduce the Karman® High Back chair to our customers in India. This latest innovation embodies our dedication to creating ergonomic and stylish solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern workplaces. With its unique patented hybrid seat and advanced comfort delivered by the proprietary new mesh material Intermix®, the Karman® chair combines comfort with aesthetic design, ensuring that all professionals can work comfortably throughout their day.”

The year 2024 stands as a turning point for Steelcase, as it pledges to serve a dual role as both a partner and a catalyst in the advancement of design professionals and design thinking practices in India. As part of its key initiatives, Steelcase is intensifying its local collaboration efforts, considerably broadening its array of partner brands to incorporate Indian-made enhancements. This includes artisanal rugs, plush sofas, and accent pieces procured from premium companies like Stanley Lifestyles. A standout new inclusion to the Steelcase SimplyIndia collection will be accent pieces from Stanley Lifestyles, esteemed for its refined craftsmanship and designs inspired by Indian culture. Now part of the Steelcase offerings, these meticulously selected items blend seamlessly with the existing product range, enriching the overall design portfolio and offering customers an eclectic mix of high-quality, locally influenced options.

“We are committed to contributing to the growth of the design community in India. Our product portfolio gains a fresh vitality through our partnerships in India. The SimplyIndia, a curated Steelcase Collection will now include Stanley products, making them more accessible to commercial customers in India.

Our global product, Personality Plus, is proudly made in India, exemplifying the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Moreover, our globally recognized Think chair is made in India for the Indian market, further underlining our commitment to local production. This dynamic blend of global and local offerings enhances the superiority and accessibility of Steelcase products for the Indian consumer.”

Samantha Giam, Vice President, Marketing, Asia Pacific, During the conference Steelcase also announced its special collaboration with CEPT University and is set to offer unique opportunities for emerging talents in India This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements, equipping students with the skills and experiences needed to excel in the field of design and architecture. Additionally, this initiative leverages Indian design talent, enabling them to create products for their own market using local insights. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of the unique needs and preferences of the local market, further enhancing the relevance and appeal of our products.

As Steelcase celebrates over 25 years in India, the inaugural Work Better Conference underscores its commitment to innovation and local collaboration. By partnering with CEPT University and expanding its product range with broadening SimplyIndia collection with products from Stanley Lifestyles, Steelcase blends global excellence with local craftsmanship. These efforts enhance the design community and make high-quality, culturally rich products accessible to both Indian and global markets. Steelcase looks forward to continuing its journey of creating inspiring, productivity-boosting workspaces in India.