(A Joint initiative of IE(I) Nagpur Local Centre and IIIE Nagpur Chapter) The Installation of IIIE Nagpur Chapter President and Knowledge Series Inauguration marks a Thought-Provoking Evening on Industry 4.0 at The Institution of Engineers (India), Nagpur Local Centre on April 5, 2025. In a collaborative effort to strengthen industrial insight and leadership in Central India, The Institution of Engineers (India), Nagpur Local Centre (IEI, NLC) and the Indian Institution of Industrial Engineering, Nagpur Chapter (IIIE, NC) hosted a significant event which marked the Installation of Dr. M. K. Sharma as the President of the IIIE Nagpur Chapter, coupled with the inaugural lecture of the Knowledge Series — a joint initiative aimed at fostering dialogue on emerging industrial paradigms.
The event commenced with welcome remarks from Dr. Shantanu Kulkarni, Chairman, IIIE Nagpur Chapter. Dr. Rakesh Shrivastava, Convener of the event briefed about the objectives and activities of IIIE while Er. Satish Raipure chairman IEI NLC highlighted the importance of Knowledge Series, setting the stage for a rich exchange of ideas.
The event brought together engineers, academicians, and industry experts for a session themed “Industry 4.0 – Relevance and Way Forward for Industries and Institutions in Central India”. The formal installation of Dr. M. K. Sharma as President was conducted with a felicitation ceremony. Dr. J. F. Agrawal introduced Dr. Sharma, highlighting his exceptional leadership in industrial engineering and his pivotal role in Bajaj Steel’s growth. In his presidential address, Dr. Sharma emphasized the need to bridge the gap between academia and industry, stating “Our mission will be to empower professionals with knowledge and practical insights that can transform the region’s industrial framework”.
Dr. Prashant Patil introduced the Knowledge Speaker, Mr. Nitin Lonkar, presenting his rich background in manufacturing leadership and community engagement. Mr. Lonkar, in his address, delivered a compelling session on the implications of Industry 4.0 for Central India. He shared practical perspectives from his own industrial experience and remarked, “Industry 4.0 is not just a buzzword—it’s the call of the hour. MSMEs must embrace smart technologies and upskill to remain competitive and sustainable.”
His address emphasized the importance of synergy between industries and institutions, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, and encouraged active participation in digital transformation.
The event was seamlessly anchored by Dr. Santosh Jaju, Hon. Secretary, IIIE Nagpur Chapter, while Dr. Mahesh Shukla proposed the vote of thanks. The ceremony concluded with the National Anthem. This event marks the beginning of a promising series of lectures and engagements under the Knowledge Series, aimed at bridging the gap between industry needs and engineering innovations in Central India.
Few Glimpses of the Event:
Dr. M. K. Sharma president of IIIE Nagpur Chapter addressing the fellow Participants