What does the future of chemical engineering look like in India and the world? In this episode of the Prof Mahesh Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ashish Lele, Director of the National Chemical Laboratory and Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Awardee, for an eye-opening discussion on how chemical engineering is evolving and why research must stay connected to industry impact.Dr. Lele shares insights on how chemical engineering and AI are converging, why modern plants are now highly automated, and the growing role of the field in therapeutics, bio-medication, and India’s position in the global pharmaceutical supply chain. We also explore the interdisciplinary nature of chemical engineering—blending biology, data science, and transfer phenomena to solve real-world problems.Perfect for students, researchers, and professionals, this episode reveals where India stands in the global chemical landscape—and where it’s headed next.