Experts stress technology, collaboration and strategic vision on Day Two
Jamshedpur, Jan 9: The second day of the International Conference on Next Generation Galvanized and Color Coated Steels (GalvaNext-2026) was marked by high-level discussions, technical knowledge-sharing and strong industry–academia collaboration, reaffirming the conference’s focus on sustainability, innovation and future-ready steel technologies.
The day began with a panel discussion on “Sustainability, Smart Technologies, and Strategic Vision”, moderated by Dr Raghuvir Singh, Chief Scientist, CSIR–National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR-NML). The panel included Dr Rahul Sharma of the International Zinc Association, Dr Saurabh Kundu from Tata Steel, Philippe Reynes of ANDRITZ Group, Dr Kallol Mondal from IIT Kanpur and Michele Chiappa of Danieli.
Panelists discussed how sustainability is increasingly being integrated into long-term industrial planning with the help of smart technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things and data analytics. They stressed that technology must be guided by a clear strategic vision to create environmental, economic and social value. The speakers also highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration, good governance and workforce upskilling to address emerging challenges and ensure resilient growth.
Following the panel discussion, a series of keynote lectures and technical presentations were delivered by national and international experts. These sessions covered a wide range of topics, including next-generation galvanizing lines, advanced and alloyed coatings, colour-coating technologies, surface engineering, corrosion behaviour, testing standards and performance evaluation. The discussions reflected the depth of research, industrial progress and future opportunities in the galvanized and colour-coated steel sector.
The first half of Day Two concluded with a Valedictory Session, reaffirming the industry’s collective commitment to technological excellence and sustainable development. Uttam Singh, Vice President, Tata Steel Kalinganagar, attended as the Chief Guest, while Pravesh Narang, Chief CRM, Tata Steel Kalinganagar, was the Guest of Honour. Praveen V Thampi, Chairperson of GalvaNext-2026, was also present. Winners in various technical and thematic categories were felicitated during the session.
In the second half of the day, delegates took part in industrial and laboratory visits, including Tata Steel’s Continuous Galvanizing Line and advanced facilities at CSIR-NML. The visits offered valuable insights into state-of-the-art infrastructure and ongoing research and development initiatives.
GalvaNext-2026, being held at Hotel Vivanta, Jamshedpur, has attracted over 300 delegates and speakers from more than 70 organizations across India and abroad. The conference brings together leading experts, academicians, researchers, policymakers and industry professionals from prestigious organizations and institutions, including the International Zinc Association, ILZDA, American Precoat Group, John Cockerill, Berger Becker, École Centrale Paris (France), ArcelorMittal (USA), TangSteel HBIS (China), ANDRITZ Group, The Sherwin-Williams Company, Nihon Parker, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Malvern Panalytical, ZEISS India, Swansea University (UK), Harvard University (USA), Primetals, Danieli, JSW Steel, multiple IITs, CSIR-NML, Tata Steel Ltd., NIT Rourkela, and many other leading industrial and academic bodies.
With its strong focus on innovation, sustainability and global collaboration, GalvaNext-2026 continues to serve as a vital platform for shaping the future of galvanized and colour-coated steel technologies.
