Kirtiraj Gaikwad (KJ): How does IIP advance packaging technology in India?
Rahul Tirpude (RT): Indian Institute of Packaging's (IIP) primary mission is to promote the export market by providing packaging support to industries based in India. The institute plays a crucial role in advancing packaging technology, research, and education in India.

KG: Can you elaborate?
RT: The main objectives of the IIP are research and development; standardising packaging practices and materials to ensure compliance with national and international regulations; the institute offers training programs, workshops, and seminars to educate professionals and students about packaging technology, design, and management; IIP also provides consultancy services to industries seeking guidance on packaging-related matters. IIP promotes the development and adoption of eco-friendly packaging solutions; IIP collaborates with industry stakeholders, academic institutions, and government agencies to foster innovation and knowledge exchange in the field of packaging. These partnerships facilitate the transfer of technology, expertise, and best practices to support the growth of the packaging sector in India.

KG: How does the IIP collaborate with industry partners to address current challenges and push the boundaries of packaging innovation?
RT: IIP conducts R&D projects in collaboration with industry partners to address specific challenges or explore new technologies in packaging. These projects often involve joint funding, expertise sharing, and access to facilities available at the institute. It also offers various training programs, workshops, and seminars tailored to the needs of the packaging industry.
We also provide consultancy services to industry partners seeking assistance with packaging design, optimisation, testing, and compliance. Through these services, the institute collaborates closely with companies to understand their specific requirements and develop customised solutions to address their challenges.

KG: Can you highlight any notable success stories or case studies where the institute's contributions have made a significant impact on the packaging sector?
RT: IIP has been actively promoting sustainable packaging practices and materials through its research, training, and consultancy services, the institute has raised awareness about the importance of eco-friendly packaging solutions and facilitated the adoption of sustainable practices by industry stakeholders.

KG: How does IIP support the industry with the testing and certification?
RT: The institute plays a critical role in ensuring product quality, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards through its testing, certification, and consultancy services. By helping companies navigate complex regulatory requirements and conducting rigorous testing of packaging materials and products, the institute contributes to building consumer trust, mitigating risks, and maintaining market access.

KG: What are your thoughts on the role of packaging technology in addressing global issues, particularly in the context of India's evolving needs and priorities?
RT: In countries like India, where food security is a significant concern, innovative packaging solutions can help extend the shelf life of perishable foods, reduce food waste, and ensure that nutritious food reaches consumers in remote or underserved areas. Vacuum packaging, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), and active packaging with antimicrobial agents are examples of technologies that can help improve food security by maintaining the freshness and safety of food products.

Biodegradable and compostable packaging materials, eco-friendly packaging designs that minimise material usage, and closed-loop recycling systems can help reduce the environmental footprint of packaging while conserving resources and mitigating waste. By adopting sustainable packaging practices, India can simultaneously address global environmental concerns and meet its domestic development priorities.

KG: What strategies do you believe India can implement to reduce counterfeiting in the food and pharmaceutical sectors?
RT: In India, where issues such as counterfeit drugs and adulterated food products are prevalent, advanced packaging solutions with anti-counterfeiting features, tamper-evident seals, and track-and-trace technologies can help protect consumers and enhance product safety.

Smart packaging solutions with embedded sensors or indicators can provide real-time monitoring of product conditions, ensuring that sensitive products such as vaccines and medicines maintain their efficacy during storage and transportation.

Rahul Tirpude: User-friendly packaging design is essential

KG: Do these strategies apply to rural India?
RT: Healthcare infrastructure in rural and remote areas is often limited, packaging innovations such as temperature-controlled packaging, vaccine vial monitors, and point-of-care diagnostics can help overcome logistical challenges and improve access to essential healthcare services.

Moreover, user-friendly packaging designs and instructions are essential for ensuring that patients can safely and accurately administer medications and medical devices, particularly in settings with limited access to trained healthcare professionals.