Prof.Kamal Chopra, Past President AIFMP, in an exclusive interview speaks about the new association, necessity of its establishment, focus, motives, aims and objectives and more.
Earlier this month, PRESSIdeas received a press release from the All India Federation of Printers and Packagers (AIFPP) via Prof. Kamal Chopra. This prompted us to send a questionnaire to him, to which he responded promptly, albeit with a distinct hint of his characteristic arrogance.
In his covering letter, he expressed, “It fills me with great joy to see esteemed editors like yourself taking an interest in AIFPP—your involvement is a testament to the federation’s promising future. It is truly my pleasure to address your queries.” His response was notably diplomatic and we present his comments to our questions with minimal editing.
PRESSIdeas: Where was the need for yet another association when we already have associations like IPAMA and AIFMP which, if I am not wrong, already represent the same constituents?
Prof. Kamal Chopra: India, a land of diversity and enterprise, is home to an astounding 250,000 printing companies. The Indian printing industry, valued at over ₹260 billion in 2023, is set to surpass ₹288 billion by 2026. However, beyond these impressive numbers lies a deeper truth—an industry driven by resilience, innovation, and the collective spirit of its people.
To my knowledge, there are over 462 printers’ and allied associations along with more than 10 federations, all working tirelessly for the betterment of businesses in printing, packaging, and allied industries. Some of the prominent ones include: AIFMP, FCBM, ICCMA, AIDP, SPA, ALPS, LMAI, IPAMA, ICPMA, AIPIMA etc.
With the rapid evolution of the industry, traditional printers are now transitioning into the realm of packaging. Considering this shift, there was a pressing need for a national-level federation that could bridge the gap and cater to both printers and packagers. AIFPP – All India Federation of Printers and Packagers – is created by DPA, with my approval and guidance, to serve this very purpose. Our mission is to safeguard the interests of micro enterprises, nurture small businesses, empower medium enterprises, and foster strong collaborations with large industries.
PRESSIdeas: You are a Past-President of AIFMP, are you still with AIFMP?
Prof. Kamal Chopra: I had the honour of serving as President of AIFMP twice, in addition to holding key positions as International Chairman and Pamex Chairman, with unwavering passion and dedication. While my heart remains deeply connected to AIFMP, the management body has unfortunately declared me disqualified from membership—for reasons best known to them.
PRESSIdeas: The association names you have highlighted in the press release shared, seem to be a part of AIFMP already – am I right?
Prof. Kamal Chopra: Yes, you are right. Some of these associations are affiliated with AIFMP. However, there is no conflict in this – many AIFMP affiliates are also members of FCBM, ICCMA, SPA, ALPS, AIDP, and LMAI. In a growing industry, multiple affiliations only strengthen the ecosystem rather than divide it.
PRESSIdeas: From the shared press-release, I also see that you “expect to receive affiliations from over 68 AIFMP affiliated associations by September 2025, 15 of which have already affiliated with AIFPP” – does that mean that you are trying to create a parallel body to AIFMP thus diminishing the formers importance which boasts of its existence for the last over seven decades?
Prof. Kamal Chopra: AIFMP is a prestigious and time-honoured federation—the Federation of Master Printers of India and nothing can diminish its legacy. However, as I mentioned earlier, six other national federations already exist, working in similar domains. AIFPP is established out of necessity, with a special focus on uplifting Micro and Small printers, guiding them through the evolving industry landscape. Furthermore, AIFPP serves both Printers and Packagers, ensuring a more inclusive approach rather than focusing solely on Master Printers.
PRESSIdeas: You particularly mentioned the strength of AIFPP being the Delhi Printers Association (DPA) which apparently is one of the largest in the region BUT is DPA not an associate of AIFMP?
Prof. Kamal Chopra: DPA is Asia’s largest printers’ association and was one of the founding pillars of AIFMP. However, due to certain reasons, DPA is no longer part of AIFMP, as their resignation has already been accepted by AIFMP itself.
PRESSIdeas: What is the specific purpose of a new association AIFPP? Could you share its Motives, Aims and Objectives?
Prof. Kamal Chopra: AIFPP is built on the foundation of integrity, transparency, and responsibility. Our core values include Protection of Micro enterprises, Support for Small businesses, Encouragement for Medium enterprises, and Collaboration with Large industries – ensuring an inclusive industry approach. No Showmanship, Only Work – Prioritizing meaningful progress over self-promotion. No Unnecessary Expenditures – Every resource is dedicated to industry welfare. No Lavish Infrastructure Spending – Focus remains on industry strengthening, not extravagant office spaces. No Personal International Visits on AIFPP Expenses – Ensuring complete financial discipline. No Personal Benefits or Favouritism – A commitment to absolute transparency and ethical governance. No Groupism or Lobbying – Decisions are made for the collective good of the industry. Federal Structure – Decentralized decision-making for balanced industry growth. Lokpal Oversight – An independent authority to uphold accountability among office bearers. Strict Constitutional Adherence – Ensuring fairness and integrity in all our actions.
PRESSIdeas: The one thing that you have emphasised about AIFPP is to “serve as a trusted partner for the printing and packaging sector, advancing its mission to promote quality, innovation, and sustainability”. Does it mean that you find the above qualities lacking in the existing federation?
Prof. Kamal Chopra: Sir, as the esteemed editor of a respected journal, I believe you are in the best position to answer that yourself.
PRESSIdeas: Is there any website or social media pages for AIFPP as yet? Where is its Registered Office based?
Prof. Kamal Chopra: The AIFPP website is currently under construction. Our registered office is in New Delhi.
PRESSIdeas: Anything else that we might have missed and that you would like to add for our readers to know?
Prof. Kamal Chopra: Nothing more than my heartfelt gratitude for your support, blessings, and cooperation in fostering the growth and development of the Printing and Packaging sector. If you need any further details, please feel free to reach out.
