Celebrating the spirit of innovation and progress, Engineer’s Day honours the builders of modern India. Stainless steel stands at the forefront, empowering engineers to create a sustainable and resilient future.
Engineer’s Day is celebrated annually on September 15th in India to honour the remarkable contributions of engineers to society. The date commemorates the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, one of India’s most eminent engineers and a pioneer of modern engineering practices. Sir Visvesvaraya’s contributions, particularly in dam construction, irrigation, and flood management, laid the foundation for India’s infrastructure development. As we celebrate Engineer’s Day, it is crucial to recognise the role that stainless steel plays in the modern Indian engineering landscape, especially in emerging sectors like infrastructure, renewable energy and healthcare.
“India’s journey towards becoming an advanced engineering nation is a testament to the relentless pursuit of innovation and problem-solving that defines our engineers. In my engagements with engineering students from leading technology institutions, I see immense potential for driving this vision forward. From an AI standpoint, the skills that will truly define their contribution to India’s future are not just technical proficiency, but the ability to think creatively, work with interdisciplinary teams, and apply AI responsibly to solve real-world challenges. As we take pride in India’s ‘Make in India, Made for the World’ ethos, we continue to see our engineering talent shaping digital solutions that resonate globally. On this Engineer’s Day, we honour the relentless innovators who not only elevate India’s standing but also define the frontline of global technological advancement,” says Sachin Panicker, Chief AI Office, Fulcrum Digital.
The SS Revolution
Stainless steel has become an indispensable material in various industries due to its corrosion resistance, strength, and sustainability. In India, the stainless steel market is growing at a rapid pace, driven by increased demand in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, food processing, water treatment, and healthcare. Engineers are at the forefront of harnessing stainless steel’s potential, creating innovative solutions for modern challenges.
India is one of the world’s largest consumers of stainless steel, with usage projected to rise significantly as the country undertakes ambitious infrastructure and development projects. The material is particularly valuable in urban infrastructure, where its durability and resistance to pollution make it ideal for public spaces, bridges, and transportation networks. For instance, the use of stainless steel in metro rail systems across major cities has proven cost-effective in the long term due to reduced maintenance costs and enhanced longevity.
With the rapid pace of urbanisation in India, stainless steel has become a key component in constructing durable and aesthetically pleasing structures. Engineers are increasingly opting for stainless steel in the design of bridges, buildings and railway stations due to its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and pollution.
In public infrastructure, stainless steel ensures safety, hygiene, and cost efficiency. Modern engineering projects, such as airports, bus terminals, and large stadiums, are incorporating stainless steel elements to meet stringent safety and durability standards. Not only does stainless steel offer longevity, but its recyclability also aligns with India’s growing focus on sustainable development. For example, the Swachh Bharat Mission has seen the installation of stainless steel waste bins across the country to promote cleanliness and sustainability.
Thinking sustainably
India’s commitment to renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, has further boosted the demand for stainless steel. Engineers are leveraging the metal’s strength and corrosion resistance in the construction of solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage systems. In solar energy, stainless steel is used in the frames of solar panels and in the construction of solar water heaters. Its anti-corrosive properties make it a preferred choice in the harsh conditions of solar farms, ensuring long-term reliability.
The healthcare sector has also benefited greatly from advancements in stainless steel applications. Engineers and medical professionals alike are capitalizing on its hygienic properties for surgical instruments, hospital equipment, and clean rooms. Stainless steel is also used extensively in the construction of hospital buildings and operating theatres, where the prevention of contamination is paramount. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the need for clean, durable materials, and stainless steel has risen to the occasion.
“As technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, engineers must remain adaptable and committed to lifelong learning. The rapid advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, automation, and blockchain require engineers to consistently upgrade their skillsets. Organisations, in turn, have a responsibility to provide opportunities for continuous learning and skill development,” says Lakshmi Mittra, SVP and Head, Clover Academy.
As we celebrate Engineer’s Day, it is important to acknowledge the critical role stainless steel plays in India’s development across various sectors. Engineers in India are increasingly relying on this versatile material to create innovative, sustainable solutions that address the country’s growing needs in urbanisation, renewable energy and healthcare. Stainless steel, with its durability, sustainability and efficiency, is shaping the future of Indian engineering, ensuring that the nation continues to thrive in an era of rapid growth and transformation.
