Striving for a corrosion-free India

While a completely 'Corrosion-free India' is likely an aspirational goal, significant strides are being made through various measures, including research, awareness campaigns, and the adoption of corrosion-resistant materials and technologies

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"India loses over Rs 12 lakh crore every year to corrosion-related damage. This is equivalent to nearly 4.2 percent of the country's GDP," said Dr U. Kamachi Mudali, AMPP India Area Representative and Vice Chancellor of Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai. "With nearly 90 percent of industries depending on steel, and 25 - 33 percent of it lost to rust, surface engineering must be treated as a national priority!"

"Surface protection is not just about preserving materials, it is about reducing carbon emissions, increasing lifecycle efficiency, and contributing to India's sustainability goals. Every ton of steel lost to rust adds to our carbon burden. Surface technology must evolve in sync with India's ambition to become a manufacturing powerhouse," he emphasized. He was speaking, along with the others, at the CII Surface & Coating Expo 2025 held in Chennai recently.

The per capita consumption of paint in India is relatively low compared to global averages, standing at approximately 4.1 kg. This figure may look significantly lower than the global average of 13 - 15 kg, but highlights the significant growth potential for the Indian paint industry as the country's infrastructure and economy continue to develop. Factors like urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and a growing housing market are expected to drive increased paint consumption in the coming years.