February 28, 2026 : The 80th anniversary of the Indian Institute of Metals was marked with pride and purpose by its Bhilai Chapter, with discussions centered on the future of metallurgy and the need to balance industrial progress with environmental responsibility.
The programme brought together industry professionals, plant leadership and members of the metallurgical community to reflect on the evolving role of the steel sector in a rapidly changing world. A key theme that emerged throughout the event was sustainability and the need to align technological development with ecological care.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Rakesh Kumar highlighted the growing importance of sustainable technologies, energy-efficient operations and environmentally responsible innovation in the steel industry. He stressed that technological advancement cannot be pursued in isolation. According to him, long-term industrial growth depends on integrating modern production systems with strong environmental safeguards. In today’s competitive global landscape, sustainability is not an added advantage but a basic requirement.
The event witnessed strong participation from the Bhilai Steel Plant. Heads of Departments from various shops attended the programme, showing collective support for the initiative. Their presence reflected a shared commitment within the plant to modernize operations while strengthening environmental protection measures.
The programme was coordinated by Shri K. V. Shankar, GM (RCL) and Honorary Secretary of the IIM Bhilai Chapter, who ensured smooth execution of the event. Valuable support was extended by Shri S. S. R. C. Murthy, Treasurer; Shri Udaybhanu Tiwari, Joint Secretary; and Shri J. S. Kohli, Sr. Manager (RCL). The event was professionally conducted by Ms. Maneesha Nandi, Dy. Manager (RCL).
The celebration concluded with prize distribution and a formal vote of thanks, marking eight decades of contribution by the Institute to the metallurgical field. The event reaffirmed the IIM Bhilai Chapter’s continued commitment to innovation, responsible industrial growth and sustainable development in India’s steel sector.
