The Federation Story – Six Decades of Leadership & Advocacy
The journey of the Federation of Indian Plywood and Panel Industry (FIPPI) mirrors the evolution of India’s wood-based panel sector itself—an industry shaped by entrepreneurship, scientific progress, policy transitions, sustainability imperatives, and collective purpose. Established during India’s formative years of industrial self-reliance, FIPPI emerged as the unified national voice of the plywood and panel industry. Over more than six decades, it has grown from an industry forum into a respected institution that bridges government and enterprise, advances research and standardisation, promotes sustainability, and strengthens India’s global presence in wood-based panel manufacturing.
Genesis of FIPPI: From Idea to Institution
As India’s plywood industry expanded beyond regional boundaries, fragmented representation became inadequate to address emerging policy, trade, and technological challenges. Recognising the need for a unified national platform, the Federation of Indian Plywood & Panel Industry (FIPPI) was formally inaugurated on 2 November 1961 in Calcutta by Shri Manubhai Shah, the then Union Minister of Industry. From its inception, FIPPI was recognised by the Government of India as the apex all-India body representing the plywood and wood-based panel sector.
Strategic Shift to the National Capital
To strengthen engagement with central policymakers, FIPPI shifted its headquarters to New Delhi in July 1963, positioning itself closer to key ministries and regulatory bodies. The Federation was formally registered in Delhi in 1969, a move that reinforced its role as a critical bridge between industry and government on issues such as forestry policy, environmental regulation, taxation, customs duties, and transport norms.
Founding Objectives: Building an Industry Institution
FIPPI was conceived not merely as an association but as an institution guiding the scientific, economic, and structural development of the industry. Its founding objectives included coordination among manufacturers, policy advocacy, promotion of quality and standardisation, export development, encouragement of research and skill development, and the prevention of unhealthy competition—objectives that laid the foundation for a responsible and cohesive industry.
Membership and Representation
Beginning with seven manufacturer members, FIPPI steadily expanded its membership base across ordinary, associate, and affiliated categories. By 1962, membership had grown to sixteen, and over subsequent decades the Federation’s reach widened to encompass manufacturers, traders, and regional associations across India.
Torchbearers of Progress: Leadership that Shaped an Industry
FIPPI’s institutional strength has been shaped by visionary leaders whose contributions transformed the industry. Among them stands Dr. D. Narayana Murti, universally regarded as the Father of Composite Wood Research in India and founding Director of IPIRTI, whose pioneering scientific work established research-driven manufacturing as the industry’s backbone.
The Federation’s founding President, Shri A.K. Kaderkutty, combined entrepreneurship with institution-building, playing a seminal role in standardisation, indigenous technology development, and research integration. Leaders such as Shri K.S. Lauly, Shri P.D. Chitlangia, and Shri M.M. Jalan further strengthened the industry’s scientific, technological, and sustainability foundations—guiding it through global engagement, policy shifts, and periods of regulatory turbulence.
A defining modern chapter of FIPPI’s history was shaped by Shri Sajjan Bhajanka, the longest-serving President (2004–2024). Under his leadership, FIPPI embedded sustainability into industry strategy, championed agroforestry and Trees Outside Forests (ToF), aligned BIS standards with global benchmarks, and guided the industry through major environmental and regulatory transitions. In 2025, his contribution was recognised with the Padma Shri.
Currently, FIPPI is led by Shri Rajesh Mittal, under whose presidentship the Federation continues to strengthen institutional credibility, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy for standards, sustainability, and responsible growth.
Shaping an Industry: Policy, Trade and Global Engagement
From its early years, FIPPI guided the industry beyond tea packaging into diversified civilian, defence, and export markets. Landmark initiatives included overseas market studies in 1963, FAO representation, participation in global consultations, export promotion programmes, and continuous engagement with ministries and regulatory bodies. FIPPI played a pivotal role in policy reforms related to raw material imports, excise duties, forestry conservation, and resin availability.
Strengthening Standards, Research and Sustainability
FIPPI has worked closely with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), government agencies, and research institutions to advance standardisation, quality assurance, and sustainability. Its collaboration with IPIRTI—from its inception to its merger with IWST under ICFRE in 2022—created a strong national research and training ecosystem supporting innovation, testing, and skilled manpower development.
Knowledge Platforms and Industry Convergence
Through initiatives such as PANELEXPO, national conferences, and international exhibitions, FIPPI has served as a convenor of ideas—connecting manufacturers, researchers, policymakers, and global technology providers. These platforms have played a formative role in shaping standards, encouraging indigenous innovation, and aligning the industry with global best practices.
Vision, Mission and Strategic Direction
In 2024, FIPPI formally articulated its Vision, Mission, and Five Thematic Goals—focusing on membership engagement, innovation and standardisation, policy advocacy, trade and taxation reform, and sustainability leadership. These guiding principles reflect FIPPI’s commitment to building a globally competitive, environmentally responsible, and future-ready industry.
Looking Ahead
As FIPPI enters its seventh decade, its priorities include expanding agroforestry, promoting eco-certifications, strengthening R&D partnerships, supporting compliance with emerging standards, developing skilled professionals, and positioning India as a trusted global hub for plywood and panel products.
FIPPI’s story is ultimately one of collective aspiration—built by pioneers, strengthened through collaboration, and driven by a vision for a sustainable, technologically advanced, and globally competitive India.
Author is Assistant Director in Federation of Indian Plywood and Panel Industry (FIPPI)- Dr. Richa Bansal
