Confederation of Indian Industry, Coimbatore organised its 5th edition of Surface Coating Conference themed Innovating for a Brighter Finish, at Hotel O By Tamara on 11 December 2024.
Ravichandran, Joint Chief Environmental Engineer, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, delivered the Inaugural address and mentioned that despite being a highly polluting sector, the electroplating industry has made excellent strides in controlling pollution. He noted that heavy metal concentrations are still found in some rivers and urged electroplating associations to recognize the importance and opportunity of establishing a Common Effluent Treatment Plant in the city.
He emphasized the importance of reducing the carbon footprint and mentioned that by 2045, India aims to increase the contribution of carbon-free industries to 55% of its GDP. He stressed the need for long-term investments to sustain these industries rather than focusing on short-term profits.
An awareness on the initiative “Meendum Manjapai” was highlighted at the event and an oath was taken to refrain the use of plastic in daily and commercial activities.
Rajesh Doraiswamy, Vice Chairman, CII Coimbatore Zone and Joint Managing Director of Salzer Electronics Ltd delivered the welcome address and highlighted the transition of the surface coating industry from a supplementary role in manufacturing to becoming an indispensable sector. He urged the importance of innovation noting that the country still lacks a surface coating that can withstand 1000 hours of salt spray.
Shrikumaravelu, Convenor, CII Manufacturing Panel and Managing Partner of Tekmak Industrials delivered the theme address and discussed the challenges in the chrome and electroplating sector, particularly the budget constraints faced by small industries in adopting the latest technology. He encouraged small-scale industries to be open-minded about learning new trends and practices and to consider the bigger picture.
Jagannathan, Managing Partner, Silver Crown Metal Coatings, thanked the organizing committee and the sponsors for conducting the event, especially given the many challenges in the surface coating sector that require support. He also mentioned that the electroplating association will work towards establishing the Common Effluent Treatment Plant.
