The Tool and Gauge Manufacturers Association (TAGMA) had recently organised the first-ever Virtual International Tooling Summit to help toolmakers find their way through these challenging times. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari; MSR Prasad, Distinguished Scientist & Director General - Missiles and Strategic Systems (MSS), DRDO; and several other prominent personalities of the tooling world graced the two-day virtual event. They offered insights about the tooling industry, which were very well received by the 500+ professionals, who marked their presence virtually from around the world. This event turned out to be an eye-opener that guided toolmakers to find opportunity in adversity.
"The tooling industry is like the heart of the manufacturing industry. It has immense economic importance. We cannot dream of having a strong manufacturing industry without a robust tooling industry," said Gadkari at the inauguration speech of the first-ever Virtual International Tooling Summit. The fifth edition of the International Tooling Summit (ITS) and first-ever Virtual International Tooling Summit-cum-virtual expo was held on November 27 and 28, 2020. The ITS, which is India's largest die and mould gathering, is organised every year by the Tool and Gauge Manufacturers Association (TAGMA).
In his welcome note D K Sharma, President, TAGMA India addressing more than 500 professionals from across the globe, who participated virtually, said, "The current pandemic has taught us a lot. For instance, adopting digital is no longer an option, but more of a compulsion. The first-ever virtual ITS is the result of such learnings." He also highlighted the challenges that Indian toolmakers face and spoke about their expectations from the government and OEMs. The welcome speech was followed by the launch of the ‘Tooling Industry Report' by the Union Minister. The ‘Tooling Industry Report' was prepared by TAGMA in association with Nomura Research Institute India Pvt. Ltd. It provides comprehensive details about the Indian tooling industry.
The event's Guest of Honour, MSR Prasad, mainly discussed the current activities and plans of the defence ministry. He also spoke about the huge opportunities available for toolmakers in the defence sector.
The theme for this edition of the virtual ITS was ‘Tooling Self Reliance in India and New Frontiers of Growth'. The two-day event saw around 15 leaders sharing their insights about the industry through two panel discussions and seven technical sessions.
The Virtual Expo: The concurrent virtual expo was also organised along with the summit with 18 partners who showcased their latest technologies to the virtual visitors from around the world. Companies that were participated were DMG MORI, Makino, AMS, COSMOS, MAZAK, Mitsubishi EDM, Goel Steel, Hitachi Metals, Hurco, Schneider (L&T), Multiple Special Steels, PCK Buderus, Phillips, Schunk, Swiss Steel, Voestalpine, Mastercam, Millutensil, among others.
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