The ET NOW Machinist Best Brands in Metal Cutting & Metal Forming 2024 felicitation ceremony was a remarkable evening that brought together the brightest minds, innovators, and leaders of the manufacturing industry. Held in Pune, the vibrant hub of Indian manufacturing, the event spotlighted the immense contributions of the metal cutting and forming industry in driving the nation's progress.
The ceremony opened with a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, industry leaders, and honourees. As the backbone of the manufacturing sector, this industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from dependence on imports to becoming a pioneer in indigenous innovation. The event, organised by ET NOW Machinist, a Times Group initiative, in collaboration with knowledge partner Breakthrough Management Group India Private Limited (BMGI), aimed to honour the exceptional contributions of brands that have set benchmarks in innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
The proceedings began with the traditional lamp lighting ceremony, symbolising the illumination of knowledge and inspiration. The lamp was lit by Shailendra Goswami, Chairman & Managing Director, Pushkaraj Group, Dr. Shailendra Shukla, Managing Director, Vehicle Group, Eaton, Neelam Pandey Pathak, Founder & CEO, Social Bay & Rozgar Dhaba, Mahadev B, Assistant Vice President, Worldwide Media and Amit Shanbaug, Editor, B2B Division, Worldwide Media (The Times Group).
In his welcome address, Amit Shanbaug delivered a speech that captured the essence of the industry. Sharing a heartfelt story, he emphasised how machine tools shape not just materials but also dreams and possibilities. Highlighting the sector's role across industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and automotive, he highlighted Pune's significance as a manufacturing powerhouse and the ideal host for these prestigious awards. He applauded the honourees for their relentless pursuit of excellence, which has inspired the entire manufacturing ecosystem to scale new heights.
Recognising innovation through collaboration
Adding to the momentum, Ambarish Raj and Amandeep Munial, Partners at BMGI, delivered a special address. They reflected on the industry's decade-long strides in innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, stating how these pillars have transformed Indian manufacturing into a globally competitive force. Their insights highlighted the sector's readiness to address future challenges while continuing to lead with precision and excellence. A token of appreciation was presented to BMGI by Ranjan Haldar, Deputy General Manager, Worldwide Media, in acknowledgment of their valuable contributions.
Insights from industry stalwarts
The evening's highlight was a thought-provoking panel discussion on "The 10-Year Evolution of the Metal Cutting and Forming Industry in India and Its Impact on the Manufacturing Sector." Moderated by Nisha Shukla, Senior Assistant Editor, B2B Division, Worldwide Media, the panel featured an illustrious lineup of speakers which included Neelam Pandey Pathak, Founder & CEO, Social Bay & Rozgar Dhaba, Shailendra Goswami, Chairman & Managing Director, Pushkaraj Group, Bireswar Mitra, Former Executive Director, Sharda Motor Industries Ltd, Dr. Dhananjay Kumar, Emeritus Professor, College of Engineering Pune & Chairman, Octa-range Technologies Pvt Ltd and Dr. Shailendra Shukla, Managing Director, Vehicle Group, Eaton.
The discussion provided valuable insights into how the sector has embraced innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation. The panelists spoke on the importance of skill development, technology adoption, and fostering global competitiveness, inspiring attendees to envision a future of shared success.
Honouring excellence
The most awaited segment of the evening, the felicitation ceremony, recognised the Best Brands in Metal Cutting and Metal Forming. The awards were based on market research conducted by BMGI and editorial conceptualisation by ET NOW Machinist. Presented in alphabetical order, the honourees represented the pinnacle of excellence across the industry. The first set of awards was presented by Neelam Pandey Pathak, Bireswar Mitra, and Dr. Shailendra Shukla followed by the second set presented by Shailendra Goswami and Dr. Dhananjay Kumar. Some of the celebrated brands included:
1. Ace Designers Limited
2. Ace Manufacturing Systems Ltd.
3. AceMicromatic Manufacturing Intelligence Technologies Pvt.Ltd.
4. Addison & Co.Ltd.
5. APAR Industries Limited
6. Ceratizit India Pvt. Ltd.
7. Cosmos Impex (India) Pvt.Ltd.
8. DN Solutions India Pvt.Ltd.
9. Fibro India
10. Forbes Precision Tools and Machine Parts Limited
11. Guhring India Pvt. Ltd.
12. Hoffmann Group
13. igus (India) Pvt.Ltd.
14. Jyoti CNC Automation Limited
15. LMW Limited
16. MARPOSS India Pvt. Ltd.
17. MMC Hardmetal India Private Limited
18. Motultech India
19. Pro-Arc Welding & Cutting Systems Pvt Ltd.
20. Quaker Chemical india Pvt. Ltd.
21. Rajamane Industries Pvt.Ltd.
22. Sphoorti Machine Tools Pvt.Ltd.
23. Trishul Machine Tools Pvt.Ltd.
Looking ahead
The event wrapped up with a heartfelt reflection on the incredible journey of the metal cutting and forming industry—a journey built on innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. More than just an awards ceremony, it became a celebration of the transformative impact of bold ideas, cutting edge technology, and the power of collaboration.
As the evening drew to a close, the atmosphere was one of inspiration and camaraderie. The event left a lasting impression on everyone present, highlighting the industry's crucial role in shaping the future of manufacturing. From driving precision to championing sustainability, the honourees showcased the relentless spirit of progress and innovation, igniting hope and setting the stage for a brighter, more promising tomorrow.
