Equal opportunities for women will boost their presence in manufacturing

By OEM Update Editorial July 8, 2024 6:28 pm IST

Founded by A.K. Sen in 2000, Tasa Automotive specialises in component manufacturing and bespoke machinery. Now, Tanushree Sen from Tasa Automotive Components is empowering women in tech and manufacturing to join the force, and Tasa Automotive is a leading example

Could you share the story of how Tasa Automotive began its journey?
A.K. Sen founded Tasa Automotive in 2000. He began his career in 1975 as a tool designer for Escorts Ltd.’s motorcycle and scooter division. He established Tasa Micro Special Purpose Machines, his first business venture, where he designed and produced fixtures, jigs, special cutting tools, and special purpose machines for automotive companies in the Delhi-NCR region. Among Tasa Micro’s clients were Sona Koyo Steering Systems and Hitech Gears, who saw potential in expanding their collaboration. Dr. Surinder Kapur of Sona Koyo Steering Systems provided an opportunity to launch a soft job work machining unit for their new Sona Okegawa Precision Forgings plant. With the guidance of individuals such as T K Pal and V V Verma, Tasa Automotive Components was founded in 2000.

Supported by Tasa Micro Special Purpose Machines, which developed affordable broaching equipment and SPM solutions, Tasa Automotive has earned the trust of numerous clients, including JTEKT India and Continental Brakes India Ltd., with whom they have maintained long-term partnerships for over 15 years. Tasa Automotive Component is committed to exceeding customer expectations in this dynamic and ever-changing environment by adhering to a customer-first policy.

What is your perception of the growth of the MSME industry in India?
Micro-small and medium-sized businesses (MSMBs) drive economic development, job creation, poverty reduction, and promoting equality worldwide. The MSME sector promotes economic growth by ensuring fair distribution and inclusive growth, especially in the automotive industry. In India, the MSME sector has significant potential but requires a supportive environment for growth. India should focus on expanding and developing the MSME sector to become a manufacturing powerhouse. Policies should be created to support businesses in the Indian manufacturing sector and provide them with platforms, guidelines, and resources to explore foreign markets. Many MSMEs are unaware of government benefits, so authorities must engage with entrepreneurs in the MSME sector to help them and reduce unemployment. The government could also establish trade routes between global and Indian industrial markets. The main challenges for MSMEs include finding skilled labour, a shortage of trained engineers, and the need for more financial support through government incentives. Organisations like EEPC and ACMA are essential in supporting Indian MSME manufacturers towards success and development.

How does Tasa promote women’s empowerment in the manufacturing sector?
Women empowerment in the manufacturing sector is transformative. It requires the removal of barriers and equal opportunities in traditionally male-dominated fields like component manufacturing. This shift is happening through equal opportunities and new job profiles. Elevating women to senior positions, especially in traditional family businesses, is crucial. A supportive family and a strong drive are key to women’s success. My family has always supported me. Women should embrace learning, technology, and adaptability. Acquiring skills boosts workplace confidence. At Tasa, women have equal opportunities in all roles, from shop floor to management. Organisations must create secure and knowledge-rich environments. Tasa believes in everyone’s potential, regardless of gender, and has practised equal opportunities for 15 years.

Please provide a brief overview of the services and manufacturing facility you offer.
We offer a wide range of services, including component manufacturing and on-demand manufacturing. We also design and manufacture our jigs, fixtures and machines. Finding all solutions under one roof is rare for an MSME organisation. We develop parts according to customer drawings and offer a variety of services through our developed supply chain partners which includes forging, casting heat treatment, and plating. We are certified with IATF16949, ISO14001, and ISO9001:2015. Our facilities include CNC Turning Centers, VMC Machines, and advanced inspection tools like Zeiss CMM and Zeiss Contour. We also provide automation solutions for SPM to meet specific customer requirements.

How do you build and maintain trust with your clients?
We have worked with esteemed companies like Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd, JTEKT, Continental Brakes India Ltd, and Dantal Hydraulics. We invest in machinery and inspection technology to ensure our clients receive excellent value and enjoy working with us. Building and maintaining client trust motivates us to excel in this competitive industry. We aim to enhance our capabilities and continue serving our customers.