Chennai Event report
Indo-French Mobility Conclave 2025, 3rd Edition
IFCCI under the aegis of its Mobility committee organzied the 3rd editon of its flagship Indo-French Mobility conclave 2025 at Chennai
3rd Edition of the Indo-French Mobility Conclave
Dates: 21st & 22nd August 2025
The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI), Chennai, in collaboration with the Consulate General of France in Pondicherry & Chennai, successfully hosted the 3rd Edition of the Indo-French Mobility Conclave on 21st August 2025 at Pullman, followed by an industry visit on 22nd August 2025.
Day 1: Conclave at Pullman Chennai
The day commenced with a B2G Roundtable between the Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation (TNSDC) and senior representatives of leading French companies such as Capgemini, Michelin, Renault, Systra MVA Consulting, Stellantis, and Valeo India.
This high-level dialogue created a platform for collaboration on workforce development and skilling needs of the future. Key participants included Mr. Kranthi Kumar Pati, IAS, Managing Director, TNSDC, Mr. Étienne Rolland-Piègue, Consul General of France in Pondicherry & Chennai, Mr. Benoît Gauthier, Head of the Regional Economic Department, Embassy of France in India, Ms. Payal S. Kanwar, Director General, IFCCI.
The session, moderated by Mr. Yohann Samuel, Regional Director – South India, IFCCI, emphasized initiatives by TNSDC to enhance graduate employability through upskilling and industry partnerships. Company leaders shared their talent requirements and recommendations to strengthen public–private collaboration for workforce readiness.
Following the B2G meeting, the conclave officially opened with,
Welcome Address by Ms. Payal S. Kanwar, Director General, IFCCI
Opening Remarks by Mr. Étienne Rolland-Piègue
Keynote Address on “French Strategy in Promoting Sustainable Mobility in India” by Mr. Benoît Gauthier
Panel 1: Transforming Automotive Logistics
The first discussion explored the evolution of the automotive logistics sector, emphasizing the impact of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Speakers:
Mr. Harsh Vardhan, Global Head – Digital Innovation, AI, Apollo Tyres
Mr. Parag Sharma, Vice President, Global Purchasing – India & Asia Pacific, Stellantis
Mr. Vivek Sriram, Partner – M&A Practice, Khaitan & Co (Moderator)
Presentation
Ms. Neha Arolkar, India Client Partner & Global Innovation Leader – Automotive, Capgemini India, and Young Leader of the France India Foundation, presented the “AI for Automotive Accelerator” under the Strategic France–India AI Initiative, highlighting the importance of collaborative innovation in shaping the industry’s future.
Panel 2: Innovations in Mobility – Driving the Future of Transport
This discussion addressed the challenges and opportunities in mobility, as well as breakthrough innovations reshaping the sector.
Speakers:
Mr. Ankush Malhotra, Head – Consulting & Advisory Services, Systra MVA Consulting
Mr. Florent Chaussade, Executive Director, Michelin India
Mr. Jayakumar G., Group President & MD, Valeo India
Mr. Muthukumar Muthukaruppan, Regional Director, Infotel
Moderator: Mr. Gautam Chabra, Partner, Trilegal
The day concluded with a networking cocktail evening hosted at IFCCI Chennai office for sponsors, speakers, and partners.
Day 2: Industry Visit – Michelin India Factory, Chennai
On 22nd August 2025, delegates visited the Michelin India factory in Chennai, gaining firsthand insights into advanced manufacturing and sustainability practices.
The visit began with a welcome by Mr. Florent Chaussade, Executive Director, Michelin India, followed by remarks from Mr. Étienne Rolland-Piègue, Consul General of France in Pondicherry & Chennai and Mr. Yohann Samuel, Regional Director – Southern Region, IFCCI
Participants were introduced to Michelin’s “People, Planet, Profit” philosophy, with highlights including:
Sustainability-driven manufacturing
Community empowerment initiatives
Automated processes from raw material to tyre assembly
Conclusion :
The 3rd Edition of the Indo-French Mobility Conclave successfully convened 80+ delegates, including policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators. The Conclave served as a platform for dialogue on emerging trends in mobility, future skilling, and sustainable innovation. The Michelin factory visit added significant value by showcasing cutting-edge practices in sustainable manufacturing.
IFCCI extends heartfelt gratitude to all speakers, delegates, and partners for making this edition a resounding success.
Special thanks to our Partners & Sponsors:
Knowledge Partner: Khaitan & Co
Gold Sponsor: Michelin India
Silver Sponsors: Pioneer Legal & Systra
Annual Patron (Mobility Committee): Apollo Tyres
