Convergence 2K25: Honoring Dr. A. Subhananda Rao with the Memorial Talk at VNR VJIET

It was a privilege to inaugurate Convergence 2K25 at VNR Vignana Jyothi Institute of Engineering & Technology (VNR VJIET) and deliver the prestigious Dr. A. Subhananda Rao Memorial Talk, titled “Sculpting the Manufacturing: Pathways to Technological Excellence.” This talk was not just an academic discourse but a heartfelt tribute to Dr. A. Subhananda Rao, a visionary leader whose contributions to science, engineering, and technological innovation continue to inspire generations.

Inauguration of Convergence 2K25 at VNR Vignana Jyothi Institute of Engineering & Technology (VNR VJIET)

Convergence 2K25 served as a dynamic platform, bringing together academicians, researchers, students and industry professionals to discuss the latest advancements in manufacturing, materials science and engineering innovation.

Felicitation by the management

My talk focused on how advanced manufacturing is shaping the future and why India must embrace technological excellence and sustainability to remain competitive.

Dr. Rao was a pioneer in defense and aerospace manufacturing, advocating for indigenous capabilities and technological excellence. This memorial talk was an opportunity to honor his words and inspire young engineers, researchers and teachers to contribute to India’s manufacturing ecosystem, which was delivered upon his thoughts.

The key themes from my talk were:

1) The Evolution of Manufacturing: From Tradition to Industry 4.0

• How manufacturing has evolved from manual production to smart, automated systems.

• The role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics and Digital Twins in modern industries.

The Evolution of Manufacturing: From Tradition to Industry 4.0

2) Advanced Materials & Metallurgy in Manufacturing

• The impact of next-generation alloys, composites and additive manufacturing (3D printing).

• Applications in aerospace, defense, space exploration and sustainable industries.

3) Sustainable & Circular Manufacturing

• The importance of reducing waste, optimizing resources and adopting green manufacturing practices.

• How India can leverage sustainable technologies to become a global manufacturing hub.

As we sculpt the future of manufacturing, we do not just build products, We Build Possibilities!

4) Bridging Academia, Industry and Policy

• The need for stronger industry-academia collaboration to drive manufacturing innovation.

• How initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat are and must shape/ing India’s self-reliance in high-tech manufacturing.

Press and media Coverage

I never even expected that I would be giving this talk as a memorial lecture. Life is something which does things beyond human control.