The National Quality Award trophy was bagged by Vikram Cements, a unit of Grasim Industries, becoming the first ever recipient since the trophy was instituted in 1997.

IMC also recognised individual efforts of Suresh Krishna, chairman and managing director, Sundaram Fasteners, for sustained commitment and leadership in promoting quality in the industry over the years. Krishna became the second recipient in the country to win the coveted IMC Juran Quality medal.

IMC also honoured Hindustan Lever's Chhindwara unit with a certificate of merit for 1998 in recognition of its excellent work and commitment to quality.

The prestige of the awards was reflected by the list of attendees. Vikram Cements was represented not only by CP Jajoo,executive president, but by Aditya Birla Group head Kumar Mangalam Birla. The winning company was also given quiet support by Rajshree Birla.

Suresh Krishna, while collecting his medal, commented on the relevance of the awards by stating that quality will be the most effective tool for Indian businesses to gain acceptance locally and internationally.