OPA organises conference on the power of printing and packaging

This conference  was a celebration of the printing and packaging industries and a testament to Bihar's prominence as a hub for education, innovation, and industry transformation. Held in Patna, the event drew an audience of over 200 delegates, including students, industry professionals, and policymakers.

Welcoming the audience, Dr. Shree Bhagwan Singh, principal of the Government Polytechnic in 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 Sanjay Srivastava, vice chancellor of the Mahatma Gandhi Central University in 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." 

The conference featured Kamal Mohan Chopra, who 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." 

Deepak Walia, managing director of Manroland India, spoke about the career opportunities awaiting young professionals in this sector. He said, "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 with the Government of India, highlighted the role of printing professionals in nation-building. "Printing is a profession of trust and responsibility. Every document printed, and 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 was moderated by Chopra. 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 a powerful question to the panel: "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 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. 

As the day ended, Chopra said, "Print is not just ink on paper; it is a dream realized, a promise kept, and a legacy created. Together, we will ensure that the power of print and packaging remains truly unstoppable."