INDIA IN BAHRAIN 27 bahrainthismonth.com | AUGUST 2025 For Mr. Baburajan, the evolution of the construction industry over the last 40 years reflects both technological progress and a growing sense of responsibility to future generations. “Nowadays, most of the projects are based on sustainability,” he says. “Back in the 80s, there was no concept of environmental impact. Today, it’s mandatory. Even airports and major developments are designed as greenfield or brownfield projects to avoid damaging the environment. We are living well today because of what our forefathers protected for us. We must do the same for our grandchildren.” Technology has also transformed his field. “In the past, quality control required a lot of manpower. Now, testing is digitised. The methods are the same, but the process is faster and more accurate. You get a better-quality product at the end of the day. That is happening worldwide, and Bahrain is no exception, especially under the guidance of His Majesty the King and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.” Education as a Priority When it comes to preparing the next generation of engineers, Mr. Baburajan believes that education must be at the heart of progress. “I plan to establish a training programme in India focused on sustainability, recycling and the circular economy. Whether it’s concrete, asphalt or other materials, we need to teach young engineers to recycle rather than waste. This way, we reduce pollution and create a more responsible industry.” He adds: “Even domestic waste needs to be approached differently. In the past, it was dumped, polluting the area with chemicals and methane gas. We must change that by recycling or pre-processing waste so it becomes usable again.” Despite his reputation for engineering excellence, Mr. Baburajan is also known for his philanthropic work. He clarifies, however, that his efforts are not tied to any single organisation. “I am not a member of Bahrain Kerala Samajam, but whenever I see an opportunity to help poor people, I do it. It’s about what is right, not about affiliation.” Education, he says, remains the cornerstone of social development. “First you educate the people, and everything else follows: health, cleanliness, business skills and technology. You cannot prioritise one over the other because they are all connected. But education comes first.” A Changing Bahrain As a member of the International Accreditation Services Technical Evaluation Committee, Mr. Baburajan has a front-row view of global quality standards. “ISO 17025 is the backbone for all testing laboratories, whether in engineering, medicine or pharmaceuticals. It ensures equipment is calibrated and results are traceable. Now, blockchain technology is being introduced, which makes everything even more transparent.” Reflecting on his nearly five decades in Bahrain, he has seen enormous changes in business and regulation. “In the 80s, if you wanted to do business in Bahrain or the GCC, even as a Saudi or Qatari, you needed a local partner. Now you can set up your own business if you follow the law. Materials too have changed. In those days, there was no cement in the Middle East. We imported it from Spain, Korea and Japan. Today, everything can be sourced locally. The competition is global, and you must be efficient and professional to succeed.” Indian entrepreneurs, he notes, now face a different landscape. “When I first arrived, there were very few local engineers. Now, Bahrainis are highly educated and competitive. You are no longer just competing regionally, you are competing with the world.” He also recalls his involvement in some of Bahrain’s most iconic projects, from the King Fahd Causeway to Shaikh Khalifa Bridge. “Every major project has included Indian talent in some way,” he says. “But today, products are standardised worldwide. You no longer depend on one country for quality.” A Spiritual Highlight One of his proudest personal moments, however, has little to do with engineering. Mr. Baburajan recalls meeting Pope Francis three times within a matter of months. “It was something I could never have imagined,” he says. “We went to the Vatican to propose an allreligion meeting, and the Pope agreed. He said: ‘At the end of the day, whether Hindu, Muslim, Christian or Sikh, we are all working towards one thing – the betterment of humanity.’” He continues: “When I came back, hundreds of people came to see me. The faith they showed was overwhelming. These are things you never forget in life.” For Mr. Baburajan, it all comes down to legacy. “We must leave behind a better world for the next generation,” he says. “Whether through sustainable engineering, education or faith in humanity, that is what matters most.”
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