The Innovative Technologies for Manufacturing (ITM) Expo 2009 was organized with a view to commercialize new technologies developed by Research Institutes, IITs, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), as well as corporates / organisation from India & overseas. H. E. Mr. S. C. Jamir, Governor of Maharashtra inaugurated the Expo. H.E. Mr. Jamir stressed that India is emerging as a global hub for innovation especially in the field of manufacturing. Technology / Innovation has been a key factor in expanding the reach and presence of small and medium-sized businesses, making it one of the fastest growing segments of the global economy. Technology has dramatically changed the face of countries such as China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan and others as the SMEs play a pivotal role in the global market place today. The manufacturing sector has been recognized as the main engine for economic growth and a major employment generator and wealth creator in India. The expo provided a platform to showcase technologies across a wide spectrum of industries from Energy to Chemicals, Medical, Engineering, Auto Industry, Agriculture, Food Processing, Irrigation and others. We also had international participation from Romania, US, Spain, UAE and Oman.

During this period, AIAI also received high-level delegations from USA, Romania, UK, Israel, France and Iran to explore investment and business opportunities in India inspite of the global slowdown and financial crisis. This shows that India is looked upon as a global hub for outsourcing as it lowers their operational costs.

In a bid to promote the business interests of our members, we have also planned a few business delegations to Canada, France and Taiwan to provide visibility to our members among business fraternity overseas.

- Vijay Kalantri