My dear fellow members,
At the outset, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Managing Committee of AIFI for entrusting me with the role of President for the period 2024-2026. It is an immense honor to lead the Association of Indian Forging Industry during such a dynamic period of growth and transformation.
As I take over from Mr. Vikas Bajaj, who led AIFI with distinction from 2020-2024, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to him for his exceptional leadership. Steering AIFI through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and overseeing the 3rd edition of our flagship event, ForgeTech India in November 2023, with resounding success. I had the privilege of being the Vice President of AIFI through his tenure and the Convener of ForgeTech India 2023 which was the highest attended event of the forging industry with the largest participating exhibitors till date.
Today, the forging sector in India is at a pivotal juncture with tremendous opportunities for innovation and growth. My focus as president will be on fostering collaboration within the industry, driving technological advancements and promoting sustainable practices. However, disruption from Electric Vehicles (EVs), Government Push for Green Mobility, dependency on auto sector and supply chain, are the key challenges that we need to deal with. We in the Forging Industry must explore advanced techniques and new materials as these innovations will be critical in maintaining a competitive edge in evolving markets.
One of my primary goals as President will be to make data more accessible to all members, empowering our industry to make informed decisions, foster collaboration, and drive growth. Data-driven insights will be crucial for navigating the increasingly competitive landscape, and I am committed to ensuring that our members have the tools they need to succeed in this environment.
Additionally, I believe it is essential to bring the next generation of leaders into the fold. To that end, we are launching the GenNxt initiative-a platform designed to engage and involve the younger generation in shaping the future of the forging industry. GenNxt will focus on leadership development, mentorship, and giving young professionals a voice within AIFI. Their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas will be vital in driving the industry forward, and I encourage all members to support and guide these emerging leaders.
With the valuable support of our newly elected Vice President, Mr. Ravi Shankar, and the collective wisdom of our members, I am confident we will not only overcome these challenges but also seize the opportunities ahead. Together, we will ensure that our industry continues to thrive, both domestically and on the global stage.
I look forward to working closely with each of you to build on the strong foundation laid by my predecessors, and together, we will drive the Indian forging industry toward new heights of success. Let’s continue to aim for excellence, and I trust I can count on your unwavering support.
” If you want to walk fast, walk alone. But if you want to walk far, walk together.”
– Ratan Tata
With best regards
Yash J. Munot
President, AIFI (2024-2026)