Smart Manufacturing, Welding Excellence and Skill Development Take Center Stage at CII MP WeldTech Conclave 2026
Industry leaders, experts and academicians discuss advanced welding technologies, automation and future-ready workforce in Bhopal
Vivek Jha, Bhopal, May 29, 2026 : The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Madhya Pradesh, successfully organized the second edition of the CII MP WeldTech Conclave 2026 at Sant Shiromani Ravidas Global Skills Park, Bhopal, bringing together industry leaders, technical experts, MSMEs, academicians and students to deliberate on the future of welding and manufacturing technologies.
The conclave focused on advanced welding techniques, automation, quality standards, global best practices and skill development, providing a common platform for stakeholders from the manufacturing and fabrication ecosystem to exchange ideas and explore emerging opportunities.
Need for Modern Technologies in Manufacturing
Welcoming the participants, Siddharth Chaturvedi, Chairman, CII Madhya Pradesh, highlighted the rapid growth of manufacturing, engineering and fabrication industries in the state. He emphasized that the increasing adoption of automation and advanced technologies has created a strong demand for skilled manpower and modern welding solutions.
He stated that CII remains committed to enhancing industrial competitiveness by facilitating knowledge-sharing platforms and industry-focused initiatives.
Growing Global Demand for Skilled Welders
Setting the context for the conclave, Uttam Ganguly, Former Chairman, CII Madhya Pradesh and Managing Director, Bend Joints Pvt. Ltd., pointed out that skilled welders are in high demand worldwide.
He noted that critical sectors such as infrastructure, automotive, defence, energy and manufacturing depend heavily on high-quality welding practices. According to him, platforms like WeldTech play a crucial role in addressing both current and future industry requirements.
Skill Development Key to Industrial Growth
Delivering the special address, Neeraj Sahay, Director, Sant Shiromani Ravidas Global Skills Park, emphasized the importance of skill development in meeting the evolving needs of industries.
He said that the Madhya Pradesh Government is creating world-class skill development infrastructure aligned with industry requirements, which will enhance employability among youth while improving industrial productivity.
Experts Share Insights on Emerging Welding Trends
The technical sessions featured renowned experts from leading organizations across the country.
Amlan Saha from Fronius, Pune, delivered a presentation on “Intelligent Welding Technology for Gen-Z”, explaining how digital technologies, automation and smart welding solutions are making welding processes more efficient, accurate and user-friendly for the next generation workforce.
Focus on Quality Excellence and Future Readiness
Pallavit Dubey from BHEL, Bhopal, spoke on “Quality Excellence in Welding and Fabrication: Industry Expectations and Future Readiness.” He stressed the importance of maintaining global quality standards and preparing industries for future technological advancements.
Importance of Standards and Lean Practices
Satish P. Sawant from the Institute of Welding and Testing Technology addressed the topic “Role of Welding Standards, NDT and Lean Practices in Building Globally Competitive Industries.”
He highlighted the significance of quality standards, non-destructive testing (NDT) and lean manufacturing practices in enhancing industrial competitiveness and ensuring product reliability.
Practical Solutions for MSMEs
R. Nipin Shankar from Lincoln Electric, Mumbai, delivered a session on “Reducing Rework, Improving Quality: Practical Welding Solutions for MSMEs.”
He shared cost-effective and practical approaches that can help small and medium enterprises improve quality, reduce production losses and enhance operational efficiency.
Modern Welding Engineering Requires Global Skills
Partha Pratim Brahma from TWI India, Chennai, discussed “Standards and Skills in Modern Welding Engineering.” He emphasized the growing need for globally recognized skills and industry-aligned training to meet future demands in welding engineering.
Robotic Welding Demonstration Draws Attention
One of the major attractions of the conclave was a live robotic-arm welding demonstration, which provided participants with a firsthand experience of advanced robotic welding technologies.
The demonstration showcased how automation can improve precision, safety, productivity and ease of operation in modern manufacturing environments. Participants witnessed the transformative impact of robotics on welding processes and industrial efficiency.
Strengthening Industry-Academia Collaboration
Speakers unanimously emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between industry, technical institutions and skill development organizations to bridge the skill gap and prepare a future-ready workforce.
Driving Manufacturing Excellence in Madhya Pradesh
The conclave concluded with a networking session where participants exchanged ideas and explored collaborative opportunities. CII reaffirmed its commitment to promoting manufacturing excellence, technological innovation, skill development and global competitiveness across industries in Madhya Pradesh.
About CII MP WeldTech Conclave
The CII MP WeldTech Conclave is a dedicated initiative aimed at bringing together industry professionals, manufacturing companies, welding experts, technical institutions and policymakers on a common platform. The conclave focuses on emerging technologies, quality standards, skill development and future trends in welding, fabrication and manufacturing industries, fostering meaningful dialogue and industry growth.
