- “Anywhere, anytime for the Growth of Industry” — Shri Tapas Roy, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Dept. of Industry, Commerce and Enterprises; Dept. of Public Enterprises and Industrial Reconstruction; Dept. of Non-Conventional and Renewable Energy Sources, Government of West Bengal.
The Eastern Region of The Institute of Indian Foundrymen (IIF), supported by its Kolkata, Howrah and Durgapur Chapters, celebrated its commemoration day, the 77th National Foundry Day, on Monday, August 26, 2026, at Hotel Park Prime, Kolkata, to 17commemorate the birthday of The Institute of Indian Foundrymen on August 17, 1950.
The event celebrated the spirit and contribution of IIF towards the Indian Foundry Industry and brought together distinguished Government dignitaries, industry leaders, senior Office Bearers, Past Presidents and members of IIF, along with representatives from the foundry, engineering and MSME sectors.
Shri Tapas Roy, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Dept. of Industry, Commerce and Enterprises; Dept. of Public Enterprises and Industrial Reconstruction; Dept. of Non-Conventional and Renewable Energy Sources, Government of West Bengal, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Mr. Pradeep Kumar Madhogaria, National Honorary Treasurer-IIF 2026-27, attended the programme as the Guest of Honour.
The evening began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by a welcome address by the Chairman of IIF-Eastern Region, Mr. Ranjan Guha. The Chief Guest Shri Tapas Roy, the Guest of Honour Shri Pradeep Kr Madhogaria and National Office Bearers were then felicitated, followed by an address by Dr. Abhishikta Roychowdhury (Acharyya), Executive Director, IIF, and addresses by distinguished guests and senior leaders of The Institute of Indian Foundrymen.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ranjan Guha, Chairman, IIF-Eastern Region, highlighted the importance of National Foundry Day as a platform for bringing together members of the foundry fraternity, Government representatives and industry leaders, while recognising the contribution of members towards the growth of the industry.
Guest of Honour Mr. Pradeep Kumar Madhogaria addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of speed and certainty in approvals, availability of land and timely statutory clearances, which are critical for industrial growth and investment. He particularly stressed the need for greater support for MSMEs, which form an important backbone of the foundry and manufacturing sectors. He called for stronger collaboration between Government and industry, both in processes and in effective implementation of policies and initiatives. He also observed that the industry now has the support of the “double-engine sarkar” and expressed optimism that coordinated efforts would help accelerate industrial and MSME growth. This was followed by addresses from Past Presidents of IIF. The Chief Guest, Hon’ble Minister, Shri Tapas Roy, subsequently addressed the gathering.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Shri Tapas Roy expressed his happiness at being amongst members of the foundry fraternity and conveyed his desire to have constructive and positive discussions with the industry. He emphasised the Government’s commitment to working collaboratively with industry to restore the past glory of West Bengal’s foundry industry. He assured the gathering of the cooperation of his Department, the Hon’ble Chief Minister and the Government of West Bengal in initiatives aimed at strengthening industrial growth.
He said that under this Government’s industrial policy framework, special emphasis is being given to MSMEs, as the Government considers MSMEs to be the backbone of industry. Accordingly, the Government is considering specific measures and support for MSMEs within its industrial policy. He further indicated that the Government is also looking into whether some relief or suitable measures can be introduced for the industry in view of the increase in power tariffs; and that the matter is under active consideration.
He urged IIF to remain in close contact with the Government and assured members of his support whenever required. Reaffirming his commitment to industrial development, he stated that “I am ready to go anywhere, anytime for the growth of the industry”, and expressed confidence that, with the cooperation of Government and industry, the desired growth and revival could be achieved.
A special felicitation was also held to recognise IIF members completing 25 years of membership, acknowledging their long-standing association with IIF.
The formal proceedings concluded with a Vote of Thanks by the Honorary Secretary, IIF-Eastern Region, Dr. Ved Prakash. A cultural programme and networking dinner followed, providing an opportunity for members, industry representatives and dignitaries to interact and strengthen professional relationships.
Seventy-seven years of fire have tempered more than metal — they have tempered a fraternity built to last. The furnaces burning today are already shaping the industry that tomorrow will inherit.