Packaging Clinic & Research Institute

 The Packaging Clinic & Research Institute (PCRI) was founded on 22 February 2012 in Hyderabad, India, by Prof. B.K. Karna, a seasoned packaging professional with over three decades of experience, including 27 years at the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) . 

 Prof. Karna's extensive background includes serving as REGIONAL DIRECTOR (Deputy Director) at the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP), where he led the Hyderabad center and contributed significantly to packaging research and development .​ 

Recognizing the need for specialized packaging education and services in India, Prof. Karna established PCRI as an ISO 9001:2015 certified organization dedicated to advancing packaging standards through testing, training, consultancy, and audits .​ 

 Recognizing the growing demand for specialized packaging solutions, Prof. Karna established PCRI to provide comprehensive services in testing, training, consultancy, and audits, aiming to elevate packaging standards across various industries in India and beyond .

Since its inception, PCRI has conducted over 200 packaging tests per month, adhering to international standards such as BIS, TAPPI, ASTM, ISO, and DIN . The institute has served more than 1200 companies per year, offering services like package design consultancy, shelf-life determination, packaging audits, and specialized training programs across sectors including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and agro-products .​ 

PCRI also emphasizes education and skill development, offering various training programs such as the Post Graduate Diploma in Packaging (PGDP) under a distance learning program, Executive Development Programs (EDPs), and short-term courses on topics like flexible packaging and corrugated boxes . 

Additionally, PCRI celebrates World Packaging Day annually on 24 March, promoting packaging as a profession and recognizing contributions to the industry since 2012..

https://blog.iao.org/iao-renews-full-accreditation-for-packaging-clinic-and-research-institute/ 

 Key Activities of PCRI  

 Packaging Testing Services: PCRI conducts over 100 tests related to packaging and allied materials, adhering to international standards such as BIS, TAPPI, ASTM, ISO, and DIN. The institute evaluates packaging materials like paper, paperboard, plastics, glass, metal, wood, jute, and cloth, assessing properties such as strength, durability, moisture resistance, and shelf-life. These tests aid in quality assurance and cost optimization for companies .

  Training and Education: PCRI offers a range of training programs aimed at developing packaging professionals. These include the Post Graduate Diploma in Packaging (PGDP), Graduate Diploma in Packaging, Intensive Training Programs (ITP), and short-term courses on topics like flexible packaging and corrugated boxes. The institute also conducts seminars, workshops, and executive development programs to enhance industry knowledge .​ 

 Packaging Consultancy: PCRI provides consultancy services for package design, shelf-life determination, and packaging specification development. It assists industries in optimizing packaging systems, ensuring compliance with regulations, and implementing cost-effective solutions. The consultancy extends to sectors dealing with dangerous goods, adhering to IATA and IMDG guidelines . 

 Packaging Audits: The institute offers annual packaging audits to assess and improve packaging systems within organizations. These audits evaluate packaging skills, machinery, and materials, providing recommendations for quality enhancement and cost reduction .​ 

 Community Engagement and Industry Promotion: The institute supports the Indian packaging industry by promoting best practices and facilitating employment opportunities for trained professionals. It collaborates with consumer advocacy organizations like Awaaz and supports packaging club members in social work initiatives .​ 

 Research and Development: PCRI engages in packaging research, exploring innovative solutions and technologies. It collaborates with international research centers and specialists to undertake packaging research projects, contributing to the advancement of the packaging industry .​ 

 In summary, PCRI is dedicated to not only advancing the technical aspects of packaging but also promoting the ethical, environmental, and societal aspects of the packaging industry. These efforts reflect a holistic approach to packaging that considers its impact on waste reduction, branding, industry relationships, education, and more.
 

PCRI's   additional initiatives:

1. Minimizing Wastage Due to Poor Packaging: PCRI is committed to reducing wastage resulting from inadequate packaging. This aligns with environmental and sustainability goals, as effective packaging can help minimize product damage and loss.
2. Enhancing Packaging Brand: The institute aims to improve the image and reputation of a company's packaging brand through a philosophical approach. This might involve emphasizing the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly packaging practices.
3. Agreements and Differences Among Packaging Suppliers and Users: PCRI seeks to clarify agreements and differences between packaging suppliers and users, likely fostering better communication and collaboration within the packaging industry.
4. Promoting Packaging Education: The philosophy of packaging education is promoted at all levels of society. This effort may include advocating for the inclusion of packaging-related topics in educational curricula.
5. Uplifting Packaging Standards: PCRI works to elevate packaging standards within society. This goal likely involves setting benchmarks for packaging quality, safety, and sustainability.
6. Encouraging Promising Students in Packaging Research: The institute supports and encourages talented students to focus on packaging research, fostering future innovation in the field.
7. Establishing Links with Government and Industries: PCRI acts as a bridge between the institute and the government sector, as well as between the institute and industries. This role can facilitate collaboration, policy development, and industry growth.