Bharat Fritz Werner (BFW), a leading manufacturer of machine tools for more than fifty years, has inaugurated the Dr Kalam Center for Innovation at its premises in Bengaluru, India.

This world class Research & Development center, which has been set up with an investment of Rs. 25 million, is a step forward towards increasing BFW's global footprint while simultaneously retaining its position in India.  BFW expects to end FY 2016 with an annual turnover of Rs. 900 crore.

This Innovation Center named after Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam is a tribute to the great scientist, researcher, and innovator. This is BFW's first Innovation Center spread over 3000 sq ft. The Dr Kalam Center for Innovation was inaugurated by A S Kiran Kumar, Chairman, Indian Space Research Organization.

Scientists at this Center will work on core research to improve and develop energy efficient and alternative material machine tools. Also, present on the occasion were G K Moinudeen, Director & Head, Karnataka State Office, Confederation of Indian Industry and J Sheik Saleem, grandnephews of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.

Speaking at the function, Kiran Kumar said, "I am happy to be a part of this Center's inauguration. Research and Development is vital for India's manufacturing capabilities. At a time when we are looking at Indian manufacturing moving to the next level, BFW's approach is laudable.

"This Center is a tribute to Late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam who was the guiding force for many scientific innovations. It is indeed a great initiative that BFW will collaborate with academic institutions for R&D."

(Continued on the next page)