The Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI) held its Annual Convention in Pune, gathering industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to examine the evolving automotive landscape and the forging sector’s role in India’s mobility transformation.
The convention featured keynote addresses focusing on critical industry developments. Dr. K. C. Vora, Program Director at Automotive CoE NAMTECH, Gandhinagar, discussed the future of electric vehicles and internal combustion engines in the Indian context. His presentation highlighted India’s transition toward sustainable mobility, supported by policy frameworks including FAME II and the National Green Hydrogen Mission, while emphasizing the continued relevance of ICE technology in India’s diverse transportation ecosystem.
Prenayan Kaul, Partner at PwC’s Supply Chain and Operations division, addressed opportunities for the Indian forging industry during challenging times. His presentation examined how forging companies can navigate global supply chain disruptions, implement technology-driven efficiencies, and identify new growth areas while managing concerns such as raw material volatility and sustainability requirements.
Strategic Partnership with Technology Provider
A significant development at the convention was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between AIFI and Hexagon, aimed at advancing digitalization and smart manufacturing capabilities within the forging sector. The partnership represents an effort to enhance innovation capabilities among AIFI members.
Yash Munot, President of AIFI, noted that the forging industry faces dual challenges of sustainability and competitiveness as India’s automotive and mobility sectors undergo transformation. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between industry, academia, and policymakers in addressing these challenges.
The convention included a panel discussion on current industry trends, opportunities, and challenges, moderated by S. Muralishankar, Chairman of Technology and Training at AIFI. Panelists included C. Rajagopalan from Sundram Fasteners Ltd., Deven Doshi from Echjay Industries Pvt. Ltd., and Manish Sonawane from Bharat Forge Ltd. The discussion covered industry trends, government policies, and global competitiveness factors.
About the Forging Industry
Established in 1965, AIFI represents over 200 members across India and serves as the umbrella organization for the country’s forging industry. The sector produces components including crankshafts, connecting rods, steering components, and various automotive and industrial parts. India ranks as the second-largest producer of forgings globally after China.
The forging industry serves as a major supplier to automotive companies and contributes significantly to employment generation. AIFI has functioned as the representative body for the Indian forging industry for approximately six decades, facilitating dialogue between industry stakeholders, government entities, and domestic and international customers.
The convention concluded with a reaffirmation of AIFI’s mission to strengthen the forging sector’s contribution to India’s economic growth while aligning with national initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and the transition to sustainable mobility solutions.