IPAMA (Indian Printing Packaging & Allied Machinery Manufacturing Association), in partnership with ASPA, hosted a seminar during the second day of the IntraPac India 2024 exhibition, aiming to address the challenge of counterfeiting through innovative solutions. The highlight of the seminar was a panel discussion shedding light on authentication, traceability, and secure sustainable packaging, where industry stakeholders delved into combating counterfeit solutions.
The panel discussion saw the presence of esteemed guests including Manoj Kochar, president of ASPA; Ajai Srivastava, former director of SPMCIL; Honey Bhardwaj, deputy general manager of Dhanuka Agritech; and Pratibha Malakar, AVP at Chemanaylst, each contributing valuable perspectives and insights to the discourse.
Kochar highlighted various facets during the panel discussion related to combating counterfeiting and the implication of authentication. He emphasized the paramount importance of the phygital approach. With a fusion of physical and digital elements, the phygital approach emerges as a formidable solution to the escalating challenges posed by counterfeiting. He also elaborated on how this integrated strategy, combining tangible features with digital technologies, enhances product security and authenticity.
“The phygital approach emerges as a potent weapon against counterfeiting. Embracing this approach provides multifaceted protection, ensuring products remain safeguarded against illicit replication. The effective role of secure and sustainable packaging must be emphasized, along with the imperative to raise awareness among all stakeholders to strengthen brand integrity. Programs similar to ‘Jago Grahak Jago’ are needed to enhance consumer vigilance and awareness regarding the threat of counterfeit products, effectively educating the masses,” said Kochar.
The discussion underscored the significance of incorporating advanced technologies such as nano engraving, RFID, hologram, QR codes, and blockchain into packaging design. These technologies not only enable real-time tracking and authentication but also empower consumers to verify product authenticity effortlessly.
Srivastava, who is an honorary member of ASPA, underscored the importance of public awareness in combating counterfeiting, drawing parallels to the zero-tolerance policy for counterfeit currency. He also spoke about how the security printing and Minting Corporation of India (SPMCIL) and Bhartiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran (BRBNMPL) units employ complete traceability right from the production floor to the release of the banknotes into the system after a 100% inspection system.
Bhardwaj also added the importance of upgrading the aim for the future and shed light on making the technology more difficult, so that it cannot be cracked by the counterfeiters.
IntraPac India 2024’s conference served as a pivotal platform for industry leaders to exchange insights and strategies in the ongoing battle against counterfeiting. Kochar’s advocacy for the phygital approach resonated strongly with attendees, reaffirming its status as a transformative solution in the fight against counterfeit products. The discussions delved into the challenges posed by counterfeiting, notably the hurdle of achieving 100% inspection. However, with concerted efforts and innovative approaches like phygital solutions, the collective aim is to mitigate these challenges and safeguard consumer interests effectively.