National conference on the power of printing hosted in Patna

This event celebrated the printing and packaging industries. It was a testament to Bihar’s rising prominence as a hub for education, innovation, and industry transformation. Held in the historic city of Patna, it drew an audience of over 200 delegates, including students, industry professionals, and policymakers, all united by a shared vision of growth and empowerment.

Welcoming the audience, Dr Shree Bhagwan Singh, principal of the Government Polytechnic, Patna, said, “Today, we write a new chapter in the history of Bihar. Hosting this national conference is not just a milestone; it is a message to the world that Bihar is ready to lead, to innovate, and to shine in the field of printing and packaging.”

The conference was inaugurated by Prof Sanjay Srivastava, vice-chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari. He said, “Printing is not just about ink on paper; it is about bringing ideas to life, connecting people, and creating change. Packaging is not merely about covering products; it is about preserving quality, enhancing value, and protecting trust. Together, these industries form the backbone of communication, commerce, and culture.”

Prof Kamal Mohan Chopra said, “Bihar has always been a land of knowledge and culture. Hosting this conference here is a testament to the state’s immense potential. But potential alone is not enough — we must act. The printing industry must embrace change, upgrade technologies, and adopt sustainable practices to remain unstoppable. Let us rise together to ensure that print remains relevant, powerful, and irreplaceable.”

Pankaj Tiwari, chairperson of the department of printing at GJ University, Hisar, emphasised the importance of education in building a strong foundation for the industry. “Education is the cornerstone of progress. Without a well-educated workforce, we cannot hope to compete globally. Today, we are planting the seeds of knowledge here in Bihar, and I have no doubt that this state will soon emerge as a leader in printing and packaging.”

Deepak Walia, managing director of Manroland Sheetfed India, spoke about the career opportunities awaiting young professionals in this sector. “Printing and packaging are industries of endless possibilities. From designing luxury packaging to creating impactful advertisements, the scope is vast and ever-expanding. Students sitting here today are the future CEOs and innovators of tomorrow’s printing world. Dare to dream big, and the industry will open its arms to you.”

Arun K Sinha, former director of printing, Government of India, highlighted the role of printing professionals in nation-building. “Printing is a profession of trust and responsibility. Every document printed, every package created has a purpose — it informs, protects, and communicates. I urge every young professional here to take pride in their work because you are the custodians of truth and creativity.”

The post-lunch panel discussion, moderated by Prof Kamal Mohan Chopra, was the heart of the conference. The panel, which included Deepak Walia, Arun K Sinha, and Salil Srivastava from Vinsak India, explored topics such as sustainability, digital transformation, and the integration of AI in printing and packaging. 

Prof. Chopra posed the question, “As we move towards a digital future, how do we ensure that print remains an essential part of our lives?"

The panellists responded with thought-provoking insights, with Walia emphasising the human connection that print fosters and Sinha advocating for sustainable practices to future-proof the industry. Students and young professionals, many of whom were attending a national-level conference for the first time, were visibly moved by the experience. 

Amit Kumar, a final-year student of printing technology, said: “Listening to Prof Chopra and the other speakers was like seeing a new horizon. I never imagined the printing and packaging industry could be so powerful and full of opportunities. This day has changed my perspective forever." 

In his closing remarks, Beer Bahadur Singh said, “Bihar has always been a land of firsts — from ancient universities like Nalanda to the great minds that have shaped this nation. Today, we add another first to our legacy—the first-ever National Conference on Printing and Packaging of Bihar. This is just the beginning. Let this day mark the start of a new journey, one where Bihar takes its rightful place as a leader in this unstoppable industry.”