Said Mr. President

Vision followed by Action for the sucess of the Industry At the  macro  level,  targeting  global  markets and building local defences deserves priority.  For growth, as a result of liberalisation and opening of economy, Indian manufacturers now not only have to protect their home turf but also compete in international market.  In a Product market, this implies working solely on Quality and Service.  The rapo building with the customer through superior performance will be more rewarding than exploring the ways and means to cut corners.  The latter cannot be an endless exercise and liable to become more and more difficult and costly to sustain the competitive edge.  Today, Quality is the single biggest differentiator followed by Service and Price, particularly in World market and generally in Asian market.  Hence, the products have got to be meticulously walk-the-talk and deliver on the tangible front.  Manufacturers have to create value for their products by adopting the state-of-the-art-technology, attain global benchmark in Costs and Quality to create a distinctive and sustainable competitive advantage. For getting recognition in Global markets, production as per well recognised international Standards is MUST.  For ensuring, that the manufacturers follow the standard practices in production, formation of a Guiding Committee under the aegis IPAMA could be considered.  The Committee has to ensure more on compliance rather than on Prosecution to adequately protect the manufacturers. Not less important is the Human factor.  Investment in human resources is as important as investment in technology.  Technology could be available at a cost, but skill and professionalism not.  At present, the Printing Industry is equipment focussed.  But, much needs to be done for development of human resource to be competitive.  Winning the war for Growth requires winning the war for Talent. It has been aptly said that “fire is the test of gold and adversity of strong man”.  The product marketing should rely more on one’s product strength rather than on bad-mouthing the products of the competitors.  Indian industry still needs greater professionalism to sustain in the international market, with tangible benefits offered by the products rather than down playing the products and achievements of the competitors.  This is the road map for the future – a series of steps, which could truly change the course of the Printing Industry in India.  All that is now required is to "make things happen” for fruition of the promise.  But, our mission can only be achieved, if we do not individualise our views and problems but constructively and collectively work in the overall interest of people and institutions involved.