In a grand inauguration on 15th September, the 17th Global Quality Convention organized by the National Institute for Quality and Reliability (NIQR) began with fervor and promise. Distinguished figures from various sectors came together to mark the beginning of this remarkable event. Sudhir Chikhle, Senior Vice President and Head of Sourcing & Supply Chain, Ashok Leyland, Dr. S. Manivannan, Founder & MD, Kauvery Hospital in Chennai, and Dr. D. Sam Dayala Dev, Former Director of IISU, ISRO, Trivandrum, were the key personalities who inaugurated the convention.
Addressing the gathering, S. Murali Shankar, National President of NIQR, highlighted the theme of the convention, “Rise in India-Towards Global Excellence.” He emphasized NIQR’s legacy of organizing 16 quality conventions in the past and the importance of this 17th edition in inspiring the next generation of Indian industrialists.
The convention comprised six impactful sessions focusing on the success stories of Indian industrialists and aimed to inspire the next generation toward making India a global leader in quality. These sessions covered a range of topics, from global opportunities and emerging technologies to easing regulatory compliances and the path to business excellence. The convention provided invaluable insights into business development and government support systems for expanding businesses abroad.
A testament to its significance, the event saw participation from around 1000 delegates representing diverse sectors from India and abroad. The convention’s primary objective was to prepare students, faculties, and Indian industries for future opportunities. With a focus on Industry 4.0, NIQR aimed to empower students with knowledge essential for securing placements in industries. Additionally, the convention underscored the significance of quality, reliability, and sustainability in facing global challenges and thriving in the international market.
Awards and Recognition
Highlighting the convention were the prestigious NIQR awards presented on September 16th. These awards recognized outstanding individuals, organizations, and educational institutions contributing significantly to the industry. Noteworthy awards included the “Accurate Award for Outstanding Quality Man-2023” presented to Kaniappan, Managing Director of ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Ltd., and the “Ashok Leyland Award for Outstanding Organization” conferred upon Saint Gobain India Private Limited. NIQR also acknowledged the lifetime achievements of industry stalwarts such as T.K. Balaji, Chairman of Lucas-TVS Limited, who received the “India Pistons Award for Lifetime Achievement.”
In addition, educational institutions like Sona College of Technology, Salem, were recognized with the “NIQR T.V.N Kidao Award for Outstanding Educational Institution,” while service organizations like Shri Sarada Ashram, Ulundurpet, were honored with the “NIQR-Lucas -TVS Award for Outstanding Service Organization.” The convention also celebrated youthful intellect, honoring the “Best Student Team in Quiz Competition” from SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattangulathur.
Adding a historical touch, NIQR presented a special award to Addison & Co Ltd for their 150 years of dedicated service to the industry.
The 17th Global Quality Convention by NIQR not only celebrated excellence but also served as a beacon of inspiration, guiding India toward a future defined by quality, innovation, and global leadership.