It was in 1993, the first edition of the K.M. Philip Gold Medal was instituted to recognise and honour contribution of individuals that have made a mark in the Indian rubber industry. The biennial award is presented under the aegis of the All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA). Since 1993 and till 2019, AIRIA has given this award to 13 distinguished individuals for their contribution towards the growth of the Indian rubber industry.

Philip had played a key role in establishing the Indian Rubber Manufacturer Research Association (IRMRA), helping it grow into a leading research laboratory associated with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Under his vision, IRMRA became a critical institution for tyre testing for both Indian and foreign manufacturers.

The K.M, Philip family feels that the award has served its purpose. Hence as a gracious closure and a finale event, the foundation has decided to honour three individuals/institutions/bodies with the  distribution of the final K.M. Philip Gold Medal in the following three categories –

K.M. Philip Gold Medal Research and Development Award

This award recognises individuals or institutions for their contributions to research and development in the rubber industry, with a particular emphasis on innovations that promote environmental sustainability.

K.M. Philip Gold Medal Entrepreneur/Businessman for the MSME Industry Development Award

The award recognises entrepreneurs who have achieved notable success in building a business from the ground up (greenfield projects) or elevating a first-generation enterprise to a global standard. The recipient should have led their industry to a prominent position in its product segment, with a preference given to those who have reduced their business's carbon footprint.

K.M. Philip Gold Medal for Institution and Rubber Industry Brand Builder Award

The award acknowledges individuals or institutions that have significantly contributed to the growth, recognition, and brand value of the Indian rubber industry and its institutions. The recipient must have initiated and executed initiatives that enhanced the industry’s overall reputation, including infrastructural institutions.

Philip is often referred to as pioneer in the rubber industry. From founding AIRIA to receiving a National Award, his legacy continues to inspire the next generation of leaders.

The past winners of the K.M. Philip Gold Medal include –

1. Late Manu M Patel (1993): Rendering services through development work, introduction of usage of synthetic rubber, technical service and training etc.
2. Late W G Desai (1995): Rendering services through pioneering work in reclaim rubber, technical services and training, standardisation, assistance in growth of SSI etc.
3. Late Shri S V Lathia (1997): Successful research work carried out to manufacture products, previously imported, thus saving in foreign exchange and for outstanding work in social and rural development work.
4. Late R K Jain (1999): pioneering efforts and developing work in promotion of exports, import substitution, technical upgradation and setting high standards in growth of SSI etc.
5. Prof Anil K Bhowmick (2001): pioneering research into the chemistry of polymers and incorporation of these new developments into technologies and outstanding contribution to imparting education to Indian rubber technologists.
6. Dr Raghupati Singhania (2003): Pioneering efforts to usher in radial tyre technology to India, his foresightedness in setting up state-of-art R&D center HASETRI, his commitment to industrial growth through his leadership in numerous group companies etc.
7. Dr R K Matthan (2005): pioneering efforts in technology transfer, establishment and commissioning of TSR factories, his continued association with technical development and usage of new forms of natural rubber, development of ultra safe\catheters, his continued association with IRI, IRMRA, Cochin university etc.
8. Late Anil Sampat (2007): For his pioneering work in conceiving and successfully organising IRE and providing a platform to the rubber industry to expose its latest technology and to facilitate two way technical exchange and trade, his entrepreneurial qualities in rubber, footwear and textile industries etc.
9. Late R K Raman (2011); His pioneering efforts in establishing world class facility MIL Industries for manufacture of rubber lining coupled with using cold bond process for first time in India, developing advanced technology applications of rubber products in Aerospace industries etc.
10. R V Gandhi (2013): pioneering efforts in developing wide range of reclaim rubbers made from natural and synthetic elastomers, establishing GRP as the largest and most respected manufacturer of reclaim rubber in the world and putting India at the forefront of export of reclaim rubber, his initiative in developing global specifications for reclaim rubber under the aegis of ISO TC 45, his contribution to the cause of education, empowerment of women and training in ethical values etc.
11. Late M F Vohra (2015): For pioneering efforts in developing Zenith Rubber into a global scale manufacturer and supplier of quality rubber sheeting and allied rubber products and exporting 80% to developed markets, for his pioneering his leadership efforts at CAPEXIL in removing impediments to exports of rubber products thereby enabling double digit annual growth of rubber products exports, etc.
12. P K Mohamed (2017): For his pioneering efforts and contribution to high technology in core processes in tyre manufacturing, his pivotal role in standardising tyre dimensions, his passionate commitment to IRI and other technical bodies etc.
13. Arvind Poddar (2019): For his pioneering efforts in evolving BKT from a family enterprise into one of the largest technologically sophisticated companies in the Off-Highway Tyre segment, for his commitment to use green technology, for being recipient of several Government of India Awards for R&D etc.

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In a major step toward sustainable waste management, RPM Automotive Group has partnered with Fornnax to enhance its tyre recycling capabilities in Australia.

As part of the initiative, RPM has integrated Fornnax’s high-capacity SR-200 HD primary shredder into its operations, significantly improving recycling efficiency and material quality.

The collaboration supports RPM’s broader environmental goals and positions the company to process over 180 tonnes of used tyres weekly, with plans to scale beyond 300 tonnes. The move is expected to help RPM capture up to 5 percent of Australia’s national market share in tyre recycling.

Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO, Fornnax, said, "At Fornnax, we understand the urgency of addressing end-of-life tyre waste, not just in Australia but globally. The SR-200 HD Primary Shredder is designed for exceptional efficiency, enabling RPM to process vast quantities of discarded tyres while maintaining optimal operational performance. This collaboration showcases our dedication to providing our clients with the robust, high-performance solutions they need to excel in the circular economy."

RPM’s 3,500 sqmt facility not only boosts recycling output but also transforms waste tyres into rubber-based materials for road projects and industrial fuel. Leveraging its distribution network, the company aims to recycle up to 54,000 tonnes of tyres over five years.

The initiative aligns with Australia’s 2021 ban on tyre waste exports and underscores the urgent need for local recycling solutions.

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Birla Tyre has launched a new brand identity featuring a redesigned logo and corporate website, marking a major step in its transformation journey under new ownership. The company, now backed by a consortium led by Dalmia Bharat Refractories (DBRL) as Resolution Applicant, and strategic partner Himadri Speciality Chemical (HSCL), aims to position itself as a premium, high-performance and future-ready brand.

The company plans to roll out a multi-platform marketing campaign and focus on re-entering key markets, expanding distribution and strengthening its product portfolio.

The refreshed identity reflects Birla Tyre’s renewed focus on speed, innovation and excellence. The new logo includes a custom wordmark symbolising forward motion and a tiger motif – called ‘Tyger’ – representing power, agility and leadership. The blue and orange colour scheme signifies trust and optimism.

Anurag Choudhary, Chairman and Managing Director & CEO, Himadri Speciality Chemical, said, “This rebranding is more than merely a visual transformation; it is a reaffirmation of our dedication to purposeful development and progress.” 

Dr Chandra Narain Maheswari, Whole Time Director & CEO, Dalmia Bharat Refractories, said, “Our new logo encapsulates the essence of Birla Tyre, which is founded on four fundamental pillars: a legacy that motivates boldness, a product line that is prepared for the future, an unwavering commitment to continuous innovation and a oneness with world around us. As this new identity signals Birla Tyre’s readiness to meet the evolving needs of the automotive industry with energy, innovation, and purpose.”

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  - Kumarswamy CE June 19, 2025 06:52 AM

  That is good news…but what about public shares which were purchased before insolvency?? Will they be reallocated under new brand ?

  Reply

The 2025 Rally of Poland commenced amid an atmosphere of mourning following the tragic death of Italian motorsport driver Matteo Doretto in a racing accident.

The 81st edition of Europe's second-oldest rally competition, taking place across the challenging gravel roads of the Masurian Lakes region from June 13-15, has been overshadowed by the loss of the rising Italian talent.

"His loss is a tragedy that deeply saddens us," said Terenzio Testoni, Pirelli Rally Activity Manager. "On behalf of Pirelli, I would like to extend our most heartfelt and sincere condolences to his family and friends."

Despite the sombre mood, 63 crews took to the start line for what remains one of the European Rally Championship's most demanding events. Notable competitors include Jon Armstrong driving a Pirelli-equipped Ford Fiesta, alongside Jos Verstappen and Andrea Mabellini, both piloting Skoda Fabias fitted with Pirelli tyres.

The rally features 14 special stages covering 190.40 timed kilometres across terrain known for its technical difficulty. The Masurian Lakes route presents drivers with uneven, often sandy roads where grip proves elusive even for experienced competitors.

"It's a very difficult and high speed rally, where attention to detail is very important," commented Testoni. "With every car passage the terrain gets rougher, forming deep ruts that can challenge even the most experienced drivers."

Weather conditions are forecast to remain dry, though organisers caution that conditions can change rapidly on such challenging terrain.

The rally serves as the third round of this season's ERC Fiesta Rally3 trophy, for which Pirelli provides exclusive tyre supply. Competing crews have access to three variants from Pirelli's Scorpion gravel range: the K4A hard compound, the K6A soft compound designated as the prime choice for this event, and the K8B supersoft option.

Regulations permit each crew to utilise 16 tyres total, including those selected for qualifying sessions. Trophy category vehicles will run on Scorpion 175/70-15 specifications in both K4 hard and K6 soft compounds.

Rally Poland's reputation for difficulty stems from its unique surface characteristics, where the sandy base becomes increasingly rutted as more vehicles traverse each stage. The deteriorating conditions throughout the weekend create an additional strategic element as crews must balance speed with mechanical preservation.

The event's location in the Masurian Lakes region, known for its natural beauty, provides a stark contrast to the intense competition unfolding on its roads. The rally has maintained its position as a crucial championship round despite the technical challenges it presents to both drivers and machinery.

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UK-based tyre safety watchdog TyreSafe has welcomed the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)’s announcement highlighting Britain’s fast lane position for self-driving vehicles.

While the safety watchdog has acknowledged the potential the technology holds for enhancing road safety and reducing collisions, it maintains a caution towards the effectiveness and safety benefits of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) – and by extension, fully autonomous vehicles. This it shared are intrinsically linked to the fundamental safety and maintenance of a vehicle’s tyres.

Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said, “We are incredibly optimistic about the future of mobility and the significant strides being made in self-driving technology. Anything that has the potential to save lives and dramatically reduce serious collisions on our roads is something TyreSafe wholeheartedly supports.”

“However, it is crucial to remember that even the most sophisticated ADAS systems rely on optimal vehicle performance, and tyres are the sole point of contact between the vehicle and the road. Without sound tyre safety management – ensuring correct pressure, tread depth, and condition – the integrity and performance of these advanced systems can be severely compromised,” said Lovatt.

He highlighted the persistent issues that is seen among current vehicle owners, when it comes to proper tyre maintenance. 

“For many years, tyres have consistently been identified as the primary cause of MOT failures for vehicles up to seven years old. This underscores a widespread complacency regarding tyre safety that we must collectively address,” he added.

As per the latest statistics, over 35 percent of MOT failures were attributed to previous tyre-related advisories, which translates to 768,410 drivers ignoring warnings and subsequently failed their next MOT due to tyre issues. The trend of vehicles failing MOTs on wheel and tyre-related advisories is unfortunately increasing, indicating a growing disregard for these critical safety components.

“The promise of self-driving vehicles is immense, but their safety cannot be fully realised if the foundational elements are neglected. As we move towards a more autonomous future, the importance of tyres – their condition and correct maintenance – becomes even more paramount. TyreSafe urges all stakeholders, from manufacturers to policymakers and drivers, to recognise that tyre safety is not just an advisory; it is a non-negotiable prerequisite for safe, efficient, and technologically advanced motoring,” concluded Lovatt.

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