Around 230 exhibitors and 15,000 visitors are attending the third edition of Pune Machine Tool Expo (PMTX) and the first edition of the Factory Equipment Expo (FACTEQ), organised by the Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association (IMTMA). The event is inaugurated on May 25, 2024.

Farrokh N. Cooper, Chairman & MD of Cooper Corporation Private Limited, and Amol Nagar, Executive Director of Global Supply Chain at GE Aerospace, Cincinnati OH, are the Guests of Honour. S. S. Survase, Joint Director of Industries at the Directorate of Industries, Government of Maharashtra, is the Special Guest. Rajendra. S. Rajamane, President of IMTMA, Mohini Kelkar, Vice President of IMTMA, Rajesh Mandlik, Chairman of IMTMA Regional Council (West), and Jibak Dasgupta, Director General & CEO of IMTMA also preside over the inauguration. The expo, held at the Pune International Exhibition and Convention Centre, concludes on May 28, 2024.

The event features exhibitors from various regions of India showcasing technologies and solutions in metal cutting, metal forming, and factory equipment. Speaking at the inauguration, Survase says, “Maharashtra is currently the largest GDP state as it contributes more than 15% to the Indian economy. The Government of Maharashtra is working towards the development of MSMEs, and a special cell is being set up for facilitating large and small investments including foreign investments. There are about 18,000 industrial units that are exporting and there is big potential for industries to invest, the state government would extend all possible support.”

“GE is a major player in the aerospace manufacturing segment having a market share of more than 60%. He adds that the aviation industry’s best practices could be emulated by manufacturing industries, especially on safety, quality, EHS, etc.,” comments Nagar.

Talking about the legacy of Cooper Corporation, their long-term association with the Indian machine tool industry, and how the company has evolved from component manufacturing to engines and tractors over the years, Cooper commends IMTMA for its exceptional contributions to India’s growth.

Speaking about the expo, Rajamane comments, “The Pune Machine Tool Expo is held to connect with industries at the regional level so that the cutting-edge technologies are taken to the doorsteps of the industries for their sustainable development. IMTMA has a significant presence of members in the Western region, specifically in Maharashtra and the Association works closely with the government to support the growth of industries in the state.” Comparing to the previous years, he concludes, “The expo has doubled in size and this is the largest machine tool show in the region.”