• BE (Polymers), MBA

• Alumnus of IIM, Ahmedabad, NMIMS, Mumbai, MIT, Pune.

• More than two and half decades of professional experience in different industries like polymers, composites, building materials / insulation.

• Rich experience to work on several start-up projects from feasibility to commercialisation.

• Instrumental to set up India's first Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) insulation plant and commercialise India's first external insulation project (DLF – Mall of India).

• Member - Executive Council of IGBC (India Green Building Council), member of ISHRAE (The Indian Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers).

• Earlier served as a member of BIS Technical Sub-committees, BEE – subcommittees for ECSBC (Energy Conservation & Sustainability Building Code); NCCD (National Centre for Cold Chain Development).

• Jury – Solar Decathlon India (SDI) conducted by IIHS-AEEE under the aegis of the Indo-US Science and Technology Forum (IUSSTF) supported by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.

ARDIV™ — Engineering the Future of Railway Polyurethane Systems

Innovative Polyurethane Solutions for:

• High-Speed Rail Coaches

• Vande Bharat & Semi-High-Speed Platforms

• Metro Rail Systems

• Aluminium & Composite Coach Structures

• Lightweight Honeycomb Panels

• Railway NVH & Passenger Comfort Systems

• Structural Adhesives & Composite Bonding

• Fire-Performance Interior Systems

• Thermal Insulation & Energy Efficiency

• Advanced Elastomeric & Protective Technologies

Application Portfolio:
Speciality PU Adhesives • Structural Bonding • NVH Solutions • Railway Foams • Composite Technologies • Elastomeric Systems • Protective Coatings • Lightweighting Technologies

Designed for the Next Generation of Indian Railway Infrastructure Supporting:

• Indian Railways

• National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited

• Integral Coach Factory

• Modern Coach Factory

• Rail Coach Factory

Focus Areas:
Lightweighting • Fire Safety • Energy Efficiency • Passenger Comfort • Structural Integrity • Long-Term Durability • Manufacturing Productivity

Experienced Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the electrical and electronic manufacturing industry. Skilled in Six Sigma, Manufacturing, Management, Project Management, Product Planning and Product Development.

Vivek Pawar serves as Country Manager – India at Hongbaoli Group, where he is responsible for driving business development, market expansion, and strategic growth for polyurethane solutions across India and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

With deep domain expertise in rigid polyols, insulation technologies, and advanced polyurethane systems, he has been instrumental in introducing innovative and application-focused solutions to the Indian market. His contributions include the successful development and promotion of CP pre-blended systems and Hongbaoli's B2-grade polyols for the continuous sandwich panel industry.

Vivek works closely with customers, OEMs, applicators, consultants, and industry partners to deliver technically robust, commercially viable, and performance-driven polyurethane solutions. His approach combines market insight, technical understanding, and customer-centric execution to support product innovation, application excellence, and sustainable growth across the polyurethane value chain.

Through his leadership, Hongbaoli Group continues to strengthen its presence in India while contributing to the advancement of high-performance insulation and polyurethane technologies in the region.

ARDIV™ — Engineering the Future of Railway Polyurethane Systems

Innovative Polyurethane Solutions for:

• High-Speed Rail Coaches

• Vande Bharat & Semi-High-Speed Platforms

• Metro Rail Systems

• Aluminium & Composite Coach Structures

• Lightweight Honeycomb Panels

• Railway NVH & Passenger Comfort Systems

• Structural Adhesives & Composite Bonding

• Fire-Performance Interior Systems

• Thermal Insulation & Energy Efficiency

• Advanced Elastomeric & Protective Technologies

Application Portfolio:
Speciality PU Adhesives • Structural Bonding • NVH Solutions • Railway Foams • Composite Technologies • Elastomeric Systems • Protective Coatings • Lightweighting Technologies

Designed for the Next Generation of Indian Railway Infrastructure Supporting:

• Indian Railways

• National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited

• Integral Coach Factory

• Modern Coach Factory

• Rail Coach Factory

Focus Areas:
Lightweighting • Fire Safety • Energy Efficiency • Passenger Comfort • Structural Integrity • Long-Term Durability • Manufacturing Productivity

Dr. Umasankar Patro is an Associate Professor in the Department of Metallurgical & Materials Engineering at the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT), Pune, India.

He earned his Ph.D. from IIT Bombay and completed postdoctoral research at the Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel.

His research focuses on polymer nanocomposites, graphene- and carbon nanotube-based materials, polyurethane and carbon foams, multifunctional composites, and materials for energy, environmental, and defence applications.

He has published over 70 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, holds several patents, has led multiple sponsored research projects, and has received recognition as one of India's Top 1% Most-Cited Materials researchers by IOP Publishing during 2016-18.

Anupam Bansal, an Economics Graduate from Delhi's Shri Ram College of Commerce and an alumnus of Harvard's Executive Management Programme, combines analytical expertise with creative design acumen honed at Italy's ARS Sutoria. As Executive Director of Liberty Shoes Ltd., he has transformed the brand from a value-driven family footwear label into a dynamic lifestyle icon, driving retail expansion, innovative company-owned brand launches, and professional management reforms.

He co-founded Izzhaar, a premium bespoke gifting brand with his wife Ruchita, blending emotion, innovation, and luxury in invitations, hampers, and personalized experiences to capture India's burgeoning gifting market.

Industry Leadership & Commerce
A prominent leader in industry forums, Anupam chairs the Delhi & NCR Committee of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI). He recently led a delegation to meet the Hon'ble Minister for Law & Justice, advocating initiatives to position Delhi as a premier cultural, tourism, and business hub.

Since 2007, he has served as Non-Executive Independent Director at BPTP, leveraging over 30 years of real estate and retail experience to guide consumer-focused strategies and brand-led developments.

Startup Ecosystem & Mentorship
In India's vibrant startup ecosystem, Anupam is a key Titan on Ideabaaz, Zee TV's groundbreaking platform and digital marketplace that connects early-stage founders—especially from Tier 2/3 cities—with funding, mentorship, and networks. As an angel investor and mentor, he provides hands-on guidance in brand building, retail strategy, go-to-market execution, and consumer-centric scaling, championing sustainable models and long-term equity.

Through Ideabaaz, he collaborates with peers and leading institutions such as IIT Madras to offer structured incubation, pitch refinement, and ecosystem support. He has backed ventures securing pre-seed and seed funding to fuel responsible entrepreneurial growth, reinforcing his reputation as a mentor who transforms aspiration into tangible opportunity for India's next generation of entrepreneurs.

His engagement extends beyond investment, encompassing capability-building initiatives that help founders refine pitches, sharpen unit economics, and develop scalable market strategies aligned with sustainable business principles.

Recognition
Anupam Bansal is widely recognized for his contributions to India's footwear and retail industries, his role in scaling consumer-centric brands, and his commitment to fostering a transparent, merit-based startup ecosystem that empowers founders across all geographies.

Academic: B.Ch.E. (Jadavpur University), Ph.D. (IIT Bombay)

Retired Outstanding Scientist from DRDO with nearly four decades of experience in Polymer Science and Technology. Served at the Naval Materials Research Laboratory (DRDO), Ambernath, from 1977 to 2016.

Research interests include Polyurethane Foam, Dynamic Viscoelasticity, Acoustic Polymers and Acoustic Stealth Materials Technology.

Awarded the DRDO Scientist of the Year (2010) and DRDO Agni Award (2004).

Published over 60 international research papers, holds 10 patents, authored 2 books and 5 book chapters. Currently Consultant at IDST, Pune.

Driven by a passion for innovation and customer-centric growth, I lead Business Development at Comphy Pillows & Mattresses, where we are redefining comfort through thoughtfully engineered sleep solutions. My focus is on building a trusted, innovation-led brand by developing high-quality pillows, mattresses, and comfort products that combine advanced material science with everyday functionality.

With over a decade of experience across polymer engineering, technical services, product development, and business strategy, I bring together technical expertise and commercial insight to identify market opportunities, forge strategic partnerships, and accelerate business growth. I believe that lasting success comes from continuous innovation, uncompromising quality, and creating products that genuinely improve people's lives

At Comphy, our mission is simple: to deliver scientifically designed comfort that helps people sleep better and live better

A visionary leader and an ardent advocate for MSMEs, Jayant Khadilkar stands at the forefront of innovation in the polymer industry. With a master's degree in Organic Chemistry from the Institute of Science, Mumbai University, and a management diploma from Jamanalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, his academic background is as robust as his professional journey.

Starting his career with HOECHEST Pharmaceuticals, a German company, Jayant dedicated 12 years to mastering the intricacies of pharmaceutical production. In 1990, at the age of 38, he embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, founding JAY ELASTOMERS PVT. LTD., a company specializing in Polyurethane products. Under his leadership as Managing Director, the company has flourished, earning numerous MSME competitive awards and forging international partnerships to innovate durable ceramic-coated rubber rolls for the steel industry.

Jayant's expertise is recognized globally, with presentations at prestigious conferences such as the American Society's Polyurethane conferences and the Aberdeen Conference, UK. His keynote speech at the Tokyo Recycling Conference 2019 underscored his commitment to sustainable practices in waste management, contributing significantly to the circular economy.

His contributions to defense are noteworthy, with projects like the PLSV Rocket Clamp Lining and Radiation Resistant Tyres for nuclear fuel transport. His association with the Naval Material Research Laboratory since 1995 has led to the development of High-Density Model making Foam for Frigate Ship construction. First ever indigenously developed SYNTACTIC FOAM is a feather in his cap. Acidic and temperature stable special adhesive sealant using Cashew Nut Shell based Bio resin is another significant achievement will be patented soon.

Jayant's innovative spirit has been recognized with awards from the Indian Polyurethane Association, SKOCH-NSE, and CII-SR, among others. IAMOT-NITTE and SME 100 awards have recognized his efforts. His work has not only earned accolades but has also positioned him as a thought leader in the industry.

Jayant Khadilkar's journey is a testament to his belief in innovation, sustainability, and the power of MSMEs to drive economic growth. His current focus on recycling waste management reflects his dedication to creating a better future for industry and the planet.

Yash Solanki is a Business Unit Leader (Production Process Leader) for the Polymer Hard Products ecosystem & Electronics at Decathlon Sports India, where he leads manufacturing strategy, supplier ecosystem development and business transformation across a diverse portfolio of sporting goods.

With over 15 years of experience in manufacturing, procurement, sourcing, industrialization, and supply chain management, Yash has been instrumental in developing local manufacturing capabilities, strengthening supplier partnerships and driving operational excellence. His expertise spans manufacturing transformation, strategic sourcing, sustainability, innovation and building high-performing teams, with a strong focus on creating resilient and future-ready manufacturing ecosystems.

A seasoned professional with over two decades of experience driving quality and business excellence across diverse sectors including Real Estate, Corporate Parks, Hotels, Stadiums, and Data Centre projects. Proven track record with industry giants such as Godrej Properties, AdanConneX, Sterling and Wilson, Tata Housing, and Larsen & Toubro.

Associated with ASQ India Section - Construction Chair, IPMA Institute - Project Management Associate, CII Institute of Quality - Business Excellence Assessor, EPI Institute - Certified Data Center Professional, Quality Council of India and Construction Industry Development Council – Member.

Core expertise in total quality management, quality assurance, quality control, business excellence, digitalization and industry 4.0. Implemented advance technologies and construction practices like 3D & 2D precast, PEB structure, Reinforced Concrete Block (RCB), GFRC Panels etc.

Spearheaded initiatives like Business Quality Council, Objective-Based Project Quality Rating System, Quality Hallmark, and Rotating Quality Trophy to foster healthy competition and continuous improvement.

Collaborated with global experts including German and Irish Master Masons to elevate construction quality standards. Led innovative programs such as construction films on key trades, mock-up galleries, and on-site training centers for workforce skilling and upskilling.

Dr. Rajesh Kumar Singh was awarded a Ph.D. from IIT (BHU), Varanasi in Ceramic Engineering in 2000 for his work on cement-organic monomer/polymer interactions. He subsequently held a Research Associate position under a CSIR, Government of India sponsored project in the Department of Chemistry, BHU.

He currently serves as Head – R&D at Aditya Birla Group's UltraTech Cement Limited (Unit: Birla White), Jodhpur, with over 25 years of experience in cement and cement-polymer based composite materials. He has published and presented more than 30 research papers in national and international journals and conferences.

He recently developed and commercialized India's first white cement-based liquid Primer product line (4 variants) under Birla White, and holds 8 granted patents on white cement-based polymeric putty and value-added products from the Indian Patent Office.

Key achievements at Birla White (2009–2025):

Developed seven new variants of white cement-based Polymeric Putty, including Fragrance and Bio-shield Polymeric Putty; led a shift in industry practice by introducing water-based liquid products using white cement in place of dry-mix cementitious products; developed India's first white cement-based Liquid Primer Paint and Colored Distemper product; introduced over 35 new smart polymers/materials into the company's value-added product portfolio.

A passionate technocrat with an MTech in Polymer Science & Engineering from IIT Delhi, Manoj Shankar brings 27 years of industrial experience spanning diverse platforms and technologies in material science, delivering innovation and solutions aligned with evolving market trends across industrial markets.

His experience covers multiple roles, including leading R&D teams across geographies in Asia; collaborating with Asia, Europe & US teams on technology transfer in tapes and execution for the India market; project management; leading application engineering teams in Australia & New Zealand for Adhesive & Tapes; and serving as Asia Assembly Solutions leader for the region.

He has worked with multiple customers across segments including transportation, appliances, electronics, construction, and general industrial markets, and has collaborated with institutes on technology development in green chemistry-based polymer initiatives, especially around polyurethane chemistry, among others.

He currently leads the R&D Lab for the Industrial Adhesives & Tapes Division, India region.

Noor E. Shama is a Research Analyst specializing in polyurethane and specialty chemicals, transforming market data into actionable insights through market research, competitive analysis, and strategic forecasting.

Gracy Sharma is a Polyurethane industry analyst with expertise in market trends, competitive intelligence, and sustainability metrics, helping businesses navigate industry shifts and evolving regulatory landscapes.