On March 27th and 28th, 1985, the Product Development Cell of IDC conducted a two-day seminar on surface finishes. The Seminar's goal was to give manufacturers and user industries a forum for exchanging knowledge about surface treatments. The Seminar maintained a techno-commercial bent by focusing on the characteristics of surface finishes, their applications, and their impact on the product's look.

With 89 participants from diverse organisations and industries, the conference received a resoundingly positive response from the industry. Among of the well-known industries that sent representatives to the conference included L&T Ltd., Telco ECL, Bajaj Auto Ltd., Jyoti Ltd., Ind-Suzuki, Universal Luggage Mfg. Co., Kirloskar-Cummins, etc.

The seminar was opened by Prof. B. Nag, Director of IIT, Bombay. The distinguished industrialist Shri S.P. Godrej served as the chief guest and gave the keynote address. During the course of the two days, a wide range of subjects were covered in the technical sections of the seminar, including ornamental finishes, the impact of surface treatments on product aesthetics, plating, painting, and metalizing. There is a complete list of topics inside.

Leading industries showcased samples of various finishing techniques, machinery, and other relevant items at an exhibition that was timed to the Surface Finishes conference that was held at IDC. The exhibition drew guests from businesses, engineering colleges, and other institutions in Bombay in addition to IIT students and personnel.