Festival of Manufacturing

21^st March, 2025 | Yashwantrao Chavan Centre, Nariman Point, Mumbai

Empowering India's Manufacturing Ecosystem: Driving Skill, Scale, and Sustainability

Overview

The Festival of Manufacturing hosted by the Times Group returns with its third edition in Mumbai, highlighting Maharashtra’s vital role in India’s industrial future. With the theme "Empowering India’s Manufacturing Ecosystem: Maharashtra’s Role in Skill, Scale, and Sustainability," the event emphasises the state's commitment to innovation, sustainable growth, and skill development. Maharashtra has long been a leader in various sectors, including automotive, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, and IT. The Maharashtra Industrial Policy 2020 has created a favourable environment for businesses, attracting domestic and foreign investments and solidifying its status as an industrial powerhouse.

The Festival of Manufacturing 2025 will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore Maharashtra’s industrial vision. By balancing local focus with global ambitions, Maharashtra aims to be a key player in India’s manufacturing revolution, setting standards for innovation and sustainability.

About Festival of Manufacturing

India’s manufacturing sector, through the years, has managed to set a tone for innovation and has today become the most sought-after destination for foreign investments in manufacturing. Adding to it, Hon’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi-launched programmes, ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make for India’ have given Indian manufacturing well-deserved global recognition. What lacks today is a dedicated day to celebrate the accomplishments of Indian manufacturing. The Festival of Manufacturing, an initiative by The Times Group, will bring together manufacturing plants across India to recognise, celebrate, and monumentalise India’s manufacturing sector. The event will bring together conglomerates, MSMEs, start-ups, associations, financial, R&D, and educational institutions under one umbrella to celebrate India’s proliferating manufacturing sector.

What can you expect?

Plant Celebrations across India

Industry focused roundtables, fireside chats, and panel discussions

On ground felicitation for changemakers in the plant

Gala dinner: An invite-only exclusive dinner for top manufacturing professional

Networking with government and association officials

Ambassador sessions discussing the long-and short-term objective that need to be worked on and more

Inspiring Stories 2024

Tales of resilience, hope, and triumph

Mukul Agrawal

In this series, we shine a spotlight on exceptional professionals like Mukul Agrawal, President of Manufacturing at Deepak Fertilisers And Petrochemicals Corporation Limited, whose innovative leadership has left an indelible mark on the manufacturing industry. Join us as we delve into Mukul's journey, where he shares insights into his role overseeing complete manufacturing operations, driving innovation, and fostering excellence at every turn. Discover how his visionary leadership has propelled Deepak Fertilisers And Petrochemicals Corporation Limited to new heights, inspiring countless professionals along the way. Stay tuned for an engaging and insightful conversation that highlights the transformative power of leadership excellence in the manufacturing sector.

Zurvan Marolia

In this enthralling episode, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Zurvan H Marolia, the esteemed Senior Vice President and Head of the Manufacturing Council at Godrej & Boyce. As a prominent figure in the manufacturing industry, Zurvan brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role, driving innovation and fostering excellence at every turn. Join us as we uncover the remarkable insights, strategies, and experiences that have shaped Zurvan's path to success. From his strategic leadership to his unwavering dedication to manufacturing excellence, Zurvan's story is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership. Stay tuned for an enlightening discussion that explores the intersection of leadership, innovation, and manufacturing prowess, brought to you exclusively by The Festival of Manufacturing.

Vipul Joshi

In this captivating episode, we shine a spotlight on Vipul Joshi, Chief Financial Officer at ideaForge. Join us as we explore Vipul's remarkable journey, where he navigates the complexities of innovation and excellence in the manufacturing sector. As a prominent figure in the industry, Vipul brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role, shaping the financial landscape of ideaForge and inspiring professionals across the manufacturing sector. Stay tuned as we uncover the insights, strategies, and experiences that have propelled Vipul's path to success. From his strategic financial leadership to his unwavering commitment to excellence, Vipul's story is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode! Subscribe now to The Festival of Manufacturing for more inspiring stories and exclusive interviews with industry leaders. Get ready to be inspired and empowered on your own journey of success!

Uday Narang

In this compelling episode, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Uday Narang, Founder of Omega Seiki Mobility. Born in New Delhi and armed with an MBA in Finance from Stonybrook University, New York, Uday's path to success is nothing short of remarkable. Initially making waves in the commodity and energy trading industry, Uday gained widespread acclaim as one of the world’s most innovative fund managers in electricity, particularly during the deregulation era of the US markets. In 2018, Uday embarked on a new venture, founding Omega Seiki Mobility (OSM). With a vision to revolutionize the cargo vehicle industry in Asia, OSM aims to become the Tesla of the East. Headquartered in New Delhi, the company is on a mission to build a Pan-Asian brand synonymous with innovation and sustainability. Join us as we uncover the insights, challenges, and triumphs that have defined Uday's entrepreneurial journey. From his early successes in finance to his groundbreaking ventures in the manufacturing sector, Uday's story is a testament to the power of innovation, perseverance, and visionary leadership. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode! Subscribe now to The Festival of Manufacturing for more inspiring stories and exclusive interviews with industry leaders. Get ready to be inspired and empowered on your own journey of success!

ATMARAM GHATAGE

Whether you’re a manufacturing professional, an entrepreneur, or simply interested in learning more about this exciting field, our inspiring stories feature is sure to captivate and inspire you. Join us as we explore the stories of passionate individuals like ATMARAM GHATAGE from Vitesco Technologies India who are changing the game in manufacturing. From small-scale operations to large corporations, we’ll take you behind the scenes to see how these individuals and companies are making a difference. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired!

AMIT PENDSE

Whether you’re a manufacturing professional, an entrepreneur, or simply interested in learning more about this exciting field, our inspiring stories feature is sure to captivate and inspire you. Join us as we explore the stories of passionate individuals like AMIT PENDSE from Vitesco Technologies India who are changing the game in manufacturing. From small-scale operations to large corporations, we’ll take you behind the scenes to see how these individuals and companies are making a difference. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired!

RAJENDRA THOMBARE

Whether you’re a manufacturing professional, an entrepreneur, or simply interested in learning more about this exciting field, our inspiring stories feature is sure to captivate and inspire you. Join us as we explore the stories of passionate individuals like RAJENDRA from Vitesco Technologies India who are changing the game in manufacturing. From small-scale operations to large corporations, we’ll take you behind the scenes to see how these individuals and companies are making a difference. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired!

RAMDAS GUNJAL

Whether you’re a manufacturing professional, an entrepreneur, or simply interested in learning more about this exciting field, our inspiring stories feature is sure to captivate and inspire you. Join us as we explore the stories of passionate individuals like RAMDAS GUNJAL from Vitesco Technologies India who are changing the game in manufacturing. From small-scale operations to large corporations, we’ll take you behind the scenes to see how these individuals and companies are making a difference. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired!

JYOTHISH NAMBIAR

Whether you’re a manufacturing professional, an entrepreneur, or simply interested in learning more about this exciting field, our inspiring stories feature is sure to captivate and inspire you. Join us as we explore the stories of passionate individuals like JYOTHISH NAMBIAR from Vitesco Technologies India who are changing the game in manufacturing. From small-scale operations to large corporations, we’ll take you behind the scenes to see how these individuals and companies are making a difference. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired!

PATRICIA SHETTY

Whether you’re a manufacturing professional, an entrepreneur, or simply interested in learning more about this exciting field, our inspiring stories feature is sure to captivate and inspire you. Join us as we explore the stories of passionate individuals like PATRICIA SHETTY from Vitesco Technologies India who are changing the game in manufacturing. From small-scale operations to large corporations, we’ll take you behind the scenes to see how these individuals and companies are making a difference. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired!

BHALCHANDRA Jamdade

Whether you’re a manufacturing professional, an entrepreneur, or simply interested in learning more about this exciting field, our inspiring stories feature is sure to captivate and inspire you. Join us as we explore the stories of passionate individuals like BHALCHANDRA from Vitesco Technologies India who are changing the game in manufacturing. From small-scale operations to large corporations, we’ll take you behind the scenes to see how these individuals and companies are making a difference. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired!

MUKUND MAHADIK

Whether you’re a manufacturing professional, an entrepreneur, or simply interested in learning more about this exciting field, our inspiring stories feature is sure to captivate and inspire you. Join us as we explore the stories of passionate individuals like MUKUND MAHADIK from Vitesco Technologies India who are changing the game in manufacturing. From small-scale operations to large corporations, we’ll take you behind the scenes to see how these individuals and companies are making a difference. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired!

Agenda

09:00 - 10:00

Registration and Networking

10:00 - 10:05

Inauguration of The Festival of Manufacturing by dignitaries followed by National Anthem

10:05 - 10:10

Lamp lighting by

F R Singhvi, President, ASDC
Sudhanshu Mani, Creator of Vande Bharat Express
TK Ramesh, Managing Director, Ace Designers Group
Kamal Bali, CEO, Volvo Group
Rishi Sutrave, Business Head, Worldwide Media

10:10 - 10:30

Opening Note

10:30 - 10:40

Welcome Address by TK Ramesh, Managing Director, Ace Designers Limited

10:40 - 11:00

Guest of Honour Address

Ashish Shelar, Cabinet minister of Information Technology of Maharashtra
Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister of Tourism, Employment and Skill Development

11:20 - 11:40

Felicitation of ET NOW Polymers Best Plastics & Polymers Brands 2025

11:50 - 12:30

CEO Panel: Build in India, Design for the World

TK Ramesh, Managing Director, Ace Designers Limited
Shailendra Shukla, MD Vehicle Group, Eaton Industrial Systems Pvt. Ltd.
Pramoud Rao, Founder, Zicom Electronics
Anant Singhania, CEO, J K Entreprises

Moderator: Amit Shanbaug, Editor – ET NOW Machinist & ET NOW Polymers

12:30 - 13:10

Panel: Accelerating India's Automotive Future: Unlocking Opportunities, Overcoming Roadblocks

F R Singhvi, President, ASDC
Kamal Bali, CEO, Volvo Group
Prashanth Doreswamy, President and CEO, Continental India
Diego Graffi, MD & CEO, Piaggio
Mahendra Waghule, Head of Projects and Development, Horizon Industrial Parks

Moderator: Prashant Joglekar, Principal Consultant, BMGI

13:10 - 13:55

NETWORKING LUNCH BREAK

14:00 - 14:05

Cultural Performance

14:05 - 14:20

Special Address by Sudhanshu Mani, Creator of Vande Bharat Express

14:20 - 14:30

Felicitation of Champions of Manufacturing + Promising Plants + Lifetime achievement felicitation

14:30 - 15:10

Panel: Building a Resilient Supply Chain: India's Journey to Logistics Dominance

Aditya Shah, Executive Director & CEO) V-Trans and V-Express
Darshan Ghodawat, CEO & MD, AVA Global Logistics Pvt. Ltd.
Jitendra Srivastava, CEO, Triton Logistics & Maritime Pvt Ltd
Chaitaly Mehta, Director, EKF Global Logistics

Moderator: Kiran Kambhampati, Associate Principal Consultant, BMGI

15:10 - 15:50

Panel discussion: Crafting India's Future: Advancing Innovation, Skill and Sustainability in Manufacturing

Pushkar Gokhale, EVP & Business Head of the Security Solutions business, Godrej & Boyce
Bill Shukla, Managing Director, Milacron India
Nilam Pathak, CEO & Co Founder, Rozgar Dhaba
Vikas Kapur, Chief Business Officer, Zavenir Daubert India Pvt. Ltd.
Sanjay Sangam, Head of Sales & Marketing, Renishaw
Rengaraj Sankarappan, Head- Quality & HSE, Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited

Moderator: Vaibhav Dange, Former Advisor, NHAI

15:50 - 16:00

Tea Break + Cultural Performance

16:05 - 16:50

Strategic Defence Manufacturing: A Vision for India