Dr. Thanikaivelan takes charge as Director of CSIR - CLRI

Dr. Palanisamy Thanikaivelan has assumed charge as the Director of the CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), succeeding Dr. K.J. Sreeram. An alumnus of Anna University, Dr. Thanikaivelan began his career at the institute as a junior scientist in 2002. His appointment marks a strategic focus on sustainability and industrial efficiency within India’s leather sector.

His tenure arrives at a pivotal moment for the industry as it balances economic growth with environmental compliance. Dr. Thanikaivelan is widely recognized for his work in "Do-Ecology," a framework that integrates environmental solutions with economic value. He was instrumental in developing waterless chrome tanning technology, a significant advancement in reducing the chemical footprint of traditional tanneries.

Beyond processing efficiency, his research has focused on the circular economy. He has successfully utilized collagenous waste to create advanced materials, including carbon nano-structures and bio-composites. His work also extends to the development of leather-like materials derived from agricultural waste, targeting the global shift toward sustainable lifestyle products.

The new director brings a robust commercial track record to the role, having transferred 12 technologies to the industry. His intellectual property portfolio includes 30 national and 17 international patents. These innovations address core industrial challenges, such as a high-exhaust tanning method that reduces chromium wastage by 30%.

A recipient of the CSIR Diamond Jubilee Technology Award and a Fulbright-Nehru Fellow, Dr. Thanikaivelan holds memberships in several prestigious international scientific bodies. His leadership is expected to reinforce the institute's position at the intersection of material science and industrial application, ensuring that Indian leather remains competitive in an increasingly regulated global market.