During his speech at AIMA's 50th National Management Convention, Tata Steel's Managing Director, TV Narendran, highlighted the unparalleled significance of steel in the modern world. He emphasised that steel is utilised 40 times more than any other metal, underscoring its indispensability. Despite the ever-changing technological landscape, steel remains a crucial commodity due to its affordability, priced as low as Rs 55 per kilogram, sometimes even cheaper than a kilogram of tomatoes.

Narendran acknowledged the challenges tied to steel production, especially its substantial carbon footprint, constituting 8% of the world's total. He advocated for eco-friendly alternatives, specifically steel recycling and the utilisation of hydrogen as an energy source. He envisioned significant growth potential in the steel industry, especially in recycling, predicting that the recycling sector will outgrow mining in the next few decades. He stressed the importance of sowing seeds for future businesses while maintaining a balance between short-term and long-term goals, urging multi-generational organisations like Tata Steel to consider their legacy for future generations.

Narendran delved into the transformative influence of technology in the steel industry, emphasising its ability to enhance cost efficiency and customer experiences. He noted the feasibility of remote operations, hinting at an imminent technological revolution in the industry.

Shifting the conversation to the future of employability in India, Narendran emphasised the necessity of prioritising vocational skills alongside conventional degrees. He drew inspiration from Europe and Australia, where vocational skills are highly regarded. Narendran advocated for the early integration of vocational training into the Indian education system, challenging the conventional emphasis on academics. Despite the challenges in talent acquisition faced by legacy industries, he praised institutions like ISRO, known for their exceptional scientists, as examples the private sector could learn from.