The 40th International Conference on Value Engineering (INVEST-24) in association with KIIT Deemed to be University concluded successfully on November 16, 2024, at Bhubaneswar. The theme of the conference was “AI and the Future of Value Engineering”. The two-day event brought together 177 delegates from leading organizations such as Tata Steel, Tata Motors, John Deere, Trane Technologies, Usha Martin, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra & Mahindra, TRF, Jamipol, Schnieder Electric, QUEST, SLB, KIIT-DU and more.
The conference featured a series of insightful keynote addresses from renowned personalities such as Shri Sridhar Patra, Ex CMD, NALCO; Dr. Marc Pauwels, Director, SAVE; Mr. Rabindra Sah, CTO, Indian Register of Shipping; Mr. Manfred Ninaus, CEO, Valuemanager Ninaus; Prof. Pratap Mohapatra, Ex-Professor, IIT Kharagpur; Mr. K N Mishra, Ex-Chaiman, INVEST EZC; Mr. Sebastian Meindl, Managing Partner, Krehl & Partner; and Dr. Saranjit Singh, Vice-Chancellor, KIIT-DU. These experts shared their valuable insights on leveraging AI to optimize design, improve decision-making, and enhance overall value.
The conference showcased 57 technical papers that delved into the intersection of AI and value engineering. Participants explored how AI can be applied to identify cost-saving opportunities, optimize supply chains, and enhance product design. The event also recognized outstanding contributions to the field of value engineering through the Mohta Award, Handa Award, and Prof. Vasant Rao Award. The awards were presented to deserving individuals and organizations, acknowledging their exceptional achievements. Additionally, awards were given to the winners of technical paper presentations.
Mr. Amit Kumar (President, INVEST); Mr. SS Ahuwalia, Secretary General, INVEST; and Mr. PK Ghose, Chairman, INVEST EZC expressed their gratitude to all participants, speakers, and sponsors for their valuable contributions. They also expressed their sincere thanks to Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder, KIIT and KISS; and Dr. Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, KIIT Deemed University for their invaluable support in making the conference a success.
INVEST leadership announced the establishment of an INVEST student chapter at KIIT-DU Bhubaneswar. They also revealed plans for the upcoming 41st INVEST Conference, which will be held in New Delhi, India. The successful conclusion of INVEST-24 underscores the growing significance of value engineering and AI in driving innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth.
All delegates expressed their gratitude to KIIT and KISS Founder, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, for organizing such a delightful and unforgettable experience.