- Mr. Vinod Bhimrajka, Chairman & Managing Director, Bhimrajka Mäder Coatings Pvt Ltd

1. Please share an overview of your company's journey and business landscape in India. 

Bhimrajka Mӓder Coatings Pvt Ltd embarked on its journey in 2008 as a Joint Venture between the Bhimrajka Group of India and Mӓder Group of France. Our manufacturing operations commenced in 2013 with a state-of-the-art plant & quality control lab in Maharashtra, and in 2023, we took a significant step forward by establishing a cutting-edge state-of-the-art  R&D lab—the first for the Mӓder Group in Asia. We began our operations with coatings for the railway sector and gradually expanded into the other demanding sectors such as Automotive, Glass, Pipes, Windmills, ACE etc. We also expanded by offering composite resins & gelcoats meeting stringent norms for railways. Today, we cater to a wide range of industries, offering high-performance coatings, composites and innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. 

2. As a business leader, how do you see the emerging opportunities and potential growth areas for your company or sector in India? 

India’s manufacturing sector is at a transformative stage, driven by initiatives by our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji’s “Make in India”, which is accelerating infrastructure development and railway modernization. With increased government focus on self-reliance, indigenous manufacturing we see tremendous growth potential, particularly in railway upgradation, automotive advancements, and emerging applications in aerospace and energy. Our commitment to high-quality coatings and composites places us at the forefront of these developments, allowing us to support the evolving needs of the industry with innovative, locally manufactured solutions. 

3. Looking ahead, how do you see innovation and sustainable business practices shaping your company's growth strategy? 

Innovation and sustainability are at the core of our growth strategy. With the launch of our R&D lab in India, we have established a facility dedicated to pioneering research, testing new product innovations, and developing formulations tailored to both local and global customer needs. Our focus is on eco-friendly and high-performance coatings that not only enhance durability and efficiency but also align with global sustainability standards. By integrating advanced R&D with sustainable business practices, we aim to drive the next phase of growth while making a positive environmental impact. 

4. With an increasing emphasis on CSR, how do you integrate your CSR goals with your business strategy? 

At Bhimrajka Group, corporate social responsibility is deeply aligned with our core business strategy. We focus on skill development to empower individuals with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving workforce. We actively support educational initiatives, fostering learning opportunities for all, especially those from underserved communities. Our efforts also extend to uplifting underprivileged groups through targeted programs aimed at improving their quality of life. Additionally, we prioritize healthcare initiatives, ensuring access to essential services for those who need it most, while promoting overall well-being within the communities we serve. 

5. How has IFCCI and its business network added value to your operations in India? 

The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been instrumental in strengthening our presence in India. Through its extensive business network, IFCCI has facilitated meaningful associations, knowledge sharing, and market insights that have helped us navigate the landscape. The platform has provided opportunities to connect with industry leaders, explore synergies with French and Indian enterprises, and stay updated on policy developments that impact our sector.