Tirthraj Joshi: The small and micro level printers have been impacted

What is the name of your press?
Shrikrishna Arts, Pune.

What happened when the PM announced the lockdown?
I think it was not all of a sudden but we were not aware about the extension for so many months. We had not planned or prepared for this type of lockdown. 

What did you do?
We asked customers to plan the jobs in time. We made payment to our suppliers and workers as we always do before long vacation such as Diwali. We did all that was necessary things for business.

Did you shut down your factory?
Yes, of course, for almost three months.

How did you inform your staff? And what did you inform them?
Actually, everyone knew the facts, since it was imposed by government. I repeated that we have to follow the guidelines, very strictly. Don’t worry I am with all of you. Call me anytime for help. I tried my best. 

Anyone who was Covid positive...?
No one from the employees or family members. 

When did you start printing again?
After three months. I cannot recall the exact date.

What date?
15 June 2020.

What did you print?
All kinds of marketing materials and stationery jobs.

How much of your capacity are you utilising now?
With full capacity as it was before lockdown, because ours is a small unit.

What is happening to the print industry in Pune?
It’s not good for commercial printers but for packaging is in a very good condition. They are doing very well. The small and micro level printers have suffered a lot. Digital and screen printing are also in trouble. There’s about 20%-25% work on offer. Many of us are not applying ink on rollers every day. 

Any supplier or trader who has been huge support?
Everyone is supporting each other. 

What made you smile in these tough times?
Spending ample time with loved ones. Also doing social work. That is, helping Covid patients by distributing material.

That’s very good. What material?
For example, food, medicines and groceries. 

Your worst moment?
During the peak of the pandemic, I used to read about the increasing number of daily deaths. Very terrifying.

Where does your press stand now?
My unit depends on other printers. Its working at 50% of capacity when it comes to actual work. Direct clients work has also diminished to almost 50% than it was before. 

Biggest disaster in this period according to you?
People’s minds have got affected. Money rolling into the system is the biggest problem. No work, negativity, purchasing power has gone down. These are the three biggest concerns. 

Today on hindsight, what advice would you give to yourself in March?
Saving, no unnecessary spending, control on overheads, proper planning of work, act according to budget throughout the year, always try to find something new and creative, think out of the box, be innovative, keep upgrading technology, change with the times, be positive, think big. There are so many lessons to be learnt from this pandemic and lockdown. 

You wish for 2021 …?
Let’s hope for the best. End of Corona pandemic in the whole world. Everyone should get enough amount of money and peace of mind. Acche din for our printing industry is a must. All printers from small to large should get work.