Catalysing Change: IFAT India 2025 and the Vision of Robin Fernandes

TVC Media Team had the privilege to speak with Mr Robin Fernandes, Executive Director of IFAT India, a seasoned leader with over two decades dedicated to advancing B2B exhibitions and trade platforms across multiple industries and geographies.

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As IFAT India 2025 approaches, Mr Fernandes shares insights on how this flagship event-India's largest showcase for environmental technologies-continues to catalyze innovation, industry collaboration, and long-term sustainable impact.

With two decades in trade fairs, what strategies keep IFAT India relevant in environmental technology?

At IFAT India, our strategy has always been twofold: relevance and impact. We ensure relevance by curating content and exhibitors that directly address India's most pressing environmental challenges— from water scarcity and sewage treatment to solid waste, including construction and demolition waste (C&D waste) and e-waste recycling. We ensure impact by going beyond exhibition booths to create action-driven platforms like buyer-seller meetings, startup zones, and dedicated industry pavilions for specific, high-growth areas like Startups, Smarter SMEs, etc., ensuring that we're addressing niche needs and emerging trends. These elements transform IFAT India from a showcase into a true marketplace where knowledge sharing translates into business opportunities and real-world solutions.

How have your experiences in India, South Africa, and Kenya shaped your approach to building IFAT India?