The 11th Edition of National Rubber Conference (NRC) 2025 - Western Region, organized by the All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA), was successfully held on 27th and 28th October 2025 at The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake. The two-day conference brought together over 500 delegates, 40+ sponsors and partners, and 13 distinguished speakers, along with an insightful panel discussion featuring eminent industry leaders.
The Chief Guest, Shri. Rajesh Kumar, Deputy Secretary at Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Guest of Honour, Shri. Bhavesh Pande, Sr. Vice President and Sector Head - Elastomer at Reliance Industries limited., Mr. Shashi Kumar Singh, Former President, AIRIA, Mr. Rajesh Mhaske, Chairman Western Region, AIRIA, Mr. Soumil Shah, Chief Convenor, NRC 2025, Mr. Dharmesh Dhanani, Editor Rubber India, inaugurated the event.
Themed around "Legacy to Leadership", it celebrated the spirit of collaboration and innovation, with core values that continue to drive progress within the tyre, non-tyre, and allied industries. It provided valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and exploring pathways toward a self reliant and globally competitive rubber ecosystem.
The first day featured sessions on upstream challenges, molding excellence, export potential, elastomer technology, sustainable composites, and future business strategies. The day concluded with a lively cocktail dinner and entertainment evening, encouraging networking among participants.
Also, a special and heartfelt tribute was given to Late Shri. Vikram Makar, Vikram Makar, Managing Director, Oriental Rubber Industries Pvt. Ltd., and Past President, AIRIA. A special award The Vikram Makar Visionary & Leadership Award was announced by AIRIA Western Region, as a tribute. The award was given to Tina Rubber and Infrastructure Ltd. Mr. Gaurav Sekhri, Joint Managing Director, Tina Rubber and Infrastructure Ltd., received the award.
The second day focused on sustainability at scale, green processing, and advancements in synthetic rubbers and digital transformation. The highlight was a panel discussion on "Navigating Growth & Transformation in the Non-Tyre Rubber Sector: Raw Materials, Investments & Future Pathways", which provided valuable insights into emerging opportunities and industry trends.
The event concluded with high tea and networking, marking yet another milestone in AIRIA's continued efforts to promote innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth within India's rubber industry.