We believe that innovation and collaboration can accelerate the path to sustainability by ensuring responsible economic growth that prioritises environmental preservation and energy resilience. Jameson Mendonca, Power Generation Business Leader at Cummins India Limited, shares the importance of a decarbonised future for mitigating climate change and creating a sustainable world.

How does Cummins’ CPCB IV+ gensets technology contribute to India’s Net Zero 2070 goal?

The Indian genset industry is experiencing a transformative era due to the shift towards cleaner energy, requiring innovation and adaptation to meet evolving energy needs. Cummins’ CPCB IV+ compliant gensets are important in supporting India’s ambitious Net Zero 2070 goal. Through rigorous innovation, gensets incorporate advanced engines and emission control technologies, enabling a reduction in particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) by up to 90%. These gensets have an improved fuel economy resulting in lower CO2 emissions.

How are CPCB IV+ gensets beneficial for the manufacturing sector? What are the long-term benefits they can see?

The manufacturing sector, which contributes to 17% of the country’s GDP, is a vital growth engine. Severe and frequent power outages disrupt production cycles, resulting in lost man-hours, equipment failures, and financial losses. It is estimated that 40% of industrial units in India use diesel gensets for backup power. Power backup is indispensable for ensuring uninterrupted operations in the manufacturing sector, especially as the industry faces increasing demands for efficiency and sustainability. 

Cummins’ CPCB IV+ compliant gensets are designed to tackle challenges and align with the sector’s growing emphasis on sustainability. For manufacturing units that operate on tight schedules, this reliability is invaluable. Advanced controls have been embedded in gensets to improve the monitoring of operations, voltage regulation, fuel efficiency, and automated shutdown in case of failure. This integration has resulted in lower operational costs and reduced emissions. Equipped with IoT sensors and telematics, these devices enable real-time monitoring, performance analytics, and remote diagnostics, leading to optimised fuel use, reduced downtime, and predictive maintenance. 

Over time, these advantages lead to reduced ownership costs, improved sustainability credentials, and enhanced brand reputation. India’s adoption of CPCB IV+ gensets positions manufacturers as sustainability leaders, enabling them to remain competitive and contribute to a greener future.

What innovations are manufacturers implementing to enhance fuel efficiency while being compliant with evolving environmental regulations?

These modern gensets are now equipped with advanced engine technologies designed to improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance overall performance. Advanced after-treatment systems, including Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or Partial Flow Filter (PFF), are integrated into gensets to improve fuel combustion, pollutant control, and fuel efficiency. These systems are designed based on the engine architecture and are tailored to the size and capacity of the genset.

Fuel sensors enable real-time monitoring of diesel consumption, enabling corrective actions to enhance efficiency and decrease emissions. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) sensors are crucial by precisely regulating DEF injection to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental standards. Furthermore, compliance with CPCB IV+ emission standards not only results in lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but also leads to reduced fuel consumption by gensets, thus aligning with our nation’s broader environmental goals. 

These gensets also eliminate the need for retrofitting devices or dual fuel kits, reducing the total cost of ownership while enhancing performance, fuel economy, and equipment reliability. Together, these advancements meet environmental regulations, improve fuel efficiency, and lower operational costs.

What steps can accelerate green and sustainable energy consumption while regulating harmful emissions?

The adoption of green energy necessitates a comprehensive strategy that encompasses cleaner technologies, enhanced energy efficiency, and the integration of renewable energy sources. Cummins CPCB IV+ gensets meet stringent emission standards, reducing pollutants like NOx, CO, and particulate matter while using cleaner fuels such as natural gas or biofuels to lower carbon footprints. While new CPCBIV+ gensets with BSVI vehicles are cleaner, regulations are needed to phase out older emission norms gensets and vehicles. Government incentives, stricter regulations, and financial support can accelerate this transition. Trends like transport electrification, smart grids, and microgrids offer decentralised, low-emission energy solutions, aligning with COP29’s vision to cut emissions by 2030. With digital advancements and public-private partnerships, we are driving energy innovation toward a sustainable future.

The LED, Light + LED Expo India of 2024, held in Yashobhoomi, Delhi, showcased advanced lighting solutions, including energy-efficient, sensor-based, human-centric, and aesthetically pleasing options.

LED, Light + LED Expo India of 2024 held at Yashobhoomi, Delhi emphasised upon the advanced range of lighting solutions. The product showcase included energy-efficient, sensor-based, human-centric and aesthetically pleasing lighting solutions. Congregating the entire lighting and LED ecosystem of India, the event attracted 11,211 visitors from 377 Indian cities, 34 States and union territories and 20 Countries.

Featuring intelligent lighting solutions for the future, Light + LED Expo India, resulted in satisfying the exhibitors and visitors with great business opportunities. The expo this year featured 229 exhibitors of which 126 companies were from intelligent lighting solutions. Buzzing with business enquiries, the show recorded a positive experience from exhibitors where 93% of exhibitors are expecting post-fair business. Connecting the industry professionals, the event and the knowledge sessions organized received an overwhelming response from the visitors and attendees. Various workshops and knowledge sessions held in association with the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), Women in Lighting (WIL), Lighting Designers Association of India (LiDAI) and Electric Component Manufacturers’ Association (ELCOMA), discussed technicalities as well as ideas and innovative ways of playing with light and amplifying its impact for user experiences and functional use.

The exhibition garnered strong support from India’s leading industry associations and government bodies such as the Ministry of Electronic & Information Technology (MeitY), the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) – the Ministry of Power, LiDAI (Lighting Designers Association of India), CREDAI-MCHI, Council of Architecture (CoA), Luminaire Accessories Components Manufacturers Association (LACMA), Indian Building Congress (IBC), Solar Energy Society of India (SESI), Bombay Suburban Electric Supply (BSES), The Calcutta Electric Traders Association and the Secunderabad Electric Traders Association.

The show was organised by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd in association with ELCOMA. Light + LED Expo India is part of Messe Frankfurt’s Light + Building Technology fair portfolio, which is headlined by the biennial Light + Building event in Frankfurt, Germany.

Imperial Auto has appointed Vikram Wagh as its new CEO, effective December 20, 2024. Wagh has nearly two decades of experience in the global automotive business.

Imperial Auto has appointed Vikram Wagh as its new CEO, as the company provides fluid transmission products for the Indian and global automotive and industrial sectors.

Vikram has almost two decades of expertise in the global automotive business, including leadership roles at Mahindra and JCB. He most recently headed Mahindra’s Farm Division, which produces Mahindra Tractors, the world’s largest tractor manufacturer. He formerly worked as JCB’s Managing Director for Southeast Asia, where he oversaw expansion in major areas.

Tarun Lamba, Promoter and Director of Imperial Auto, said, “Over the past three decades, it has been my privilege to be a part of Imperial Auto as we have grown into a global player in fluid transmission solutions. The time is now right to bring in a leader who can take our vision forward. Vikram’s deep industry knowledge, operational expertise, and commitment to innovation make him the ideal choice to lead Imperial Auto into its next chapter. I will work closely with Vikram to ensure a seamless transition to CEO responsibilities in the coming months. I look forward to the exciting new directions his leadership will bring to this organisation.” 

Vikram Wagh, incoming CEO, Imperial Auto, said, “I am honoured to join Imperial Auto, a company with a rich legacy, a strong commitment to quality, and a relentless drive for customer service. Tarun’s leadership has laid a remarkable foundation, and I am excited to work with the talented team at Imperial to build on this success and drive the company’s growth in an evolving automotive and industrial landscape.” 

Jaya Hind Industries, has installed India’s largest 4400-tonne high-pressure die-casting machine at its Urse plant near Pune.

Jaya Hind Industries Private Limited, a part of the Dr. Abhay Firodia Group of companies, has achieved a milestone with the installation of India’s largest 4400-tonne high-pressure die-casting machine from Buhler-Switzerland at its Urse plant near Pune. This massive development highlights Jaya Hind’s emphasis on technological innovation and its mission to set new industry benchmarks.  

The 4400-ton die-casting machine is a game-changer in manufacturing, setting new benchmarks for producing complex aluminum structural components. This cutting-edge marvel makes it possible to create parts that were once out of reach in the region. From structural components like cradles, shock towers, and housings to advanced aluminum parts for electric vehicles and heavy-duty transmission and flywheel housings for commercial vehicles, this machine pushes the boundaries of what’s achievable in modern manufacturing.  

Prasan Firodia, Managing Director of Jaya hind Industries, said, “This marks a proud moment for Jaya hind and the Indian die-casting industry. The 4400-ton machine reflects our relentless dedication to innovation and excellence. It empowers us to meet the rising demand for large, complex structural parts for futuristic applications, particularly in the rapidly evolving EV sector. We are looking forward to enhanced production capacity and improved workflows through the same.”

With this ground breaking installation, Jaya hind Industries is poised to cater to both domestic and international Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). The enhanced capabilities align with the growing global demand for lightweight, high-strength aluminium components critical to next-generation vehicles.

This milestone elevates Jaya hind Industries and positions India as a global leader in advanced die-casting technology, redefining the future of manufacturing in the aluminium sector.

Euler Motors is a major part of India’s EV landscape, which includes advanced liquid cooling, robust BTMS, predictive maintenance, and connected systems. Their reliable, long-lasting batteries are to ensure optimal performance in extreme conditions and promote sustainable mobility.

What advanced technologies does Euler Motors deploy to produce reliable battery systems?

Euler Motors was the first to introduce cutting-edge liquid cooling technology, for long-lasting battery life, setting a new standard in the Indian commercial EV market. This innovative system prevents lithium plating during charge and discharge processes, which can degrade the cell’s charge-holding capacity over time. This effect becomes more severe at higher temperatures, and by keeping the battery cool, our liquid cooling system mitigates this issue, resulting in longer battery life and better performance.

With the launch of our first four-wheeler, the Storm EV, we continue to push the boundaries of performance with our ArcReactor™ 200 technology. It provides optimal battery performance while extending battery life even in extreme weather conditions. It is supported by a Vapour Compression Engine that provides dedicated thermal management, maintaining ideal battery temperatures for maximum efficiency.

The Storm LongRange 200 EV’s 30kWh battery features a proprietary laser-welded design, ensuring reliability in extreme conditions, from Rajasthan’s heat to Kashmir’s cold. It is fully water- and dust-resistant (IP67 rating) and utilises vapour compression for efficient cooling, extending battery life even in temperatures ranging from -40°C to 70°C. Proactive measures have also been implemented to address the depth of discharge concerns by incorporating higher reserves (10-15%). Predictive maintenance capabilities enhance reliability by monitoring the battery’s discharge levels and preventing overuse. We are redefining reliability and performance and ensuring our customers can trust Storm EVs for years.

How do the liquid-cooled battery pack and BTMS contribute to the overall performance of your vehicles?

Our vehicles are meant to carry maximum payload, which results in higher currents. Our battery pack incorporates active liquid cooling during charge and discharge cycles, even in extreme conditions. This improves performance, extends battery life, and reduces total cost of ownership. Integrated sensors continuously monitor the battery’s temperature, activating a coolant circulation mechanism when temperatures exceed predefined thresholds. We ensure the longevity and performance of our battery systems this way.

The Battery Thermal Management System (BTMS) in the HiLoad EV and Storm EV provides efficiency even under heavy loads or high temperatures. With real-time temperature regulation and the ability to optimise performance through software updates, the 4th generation BTMS enhances vehicle longevity while reducing the need for hardware upgrades. It reduces the cost while keeping the performance consistent.

How has Euler Motors contributed to reducing the environmental impact of commercial vehicles in India?

Our core vision is for India’s transition to sustainable mobility. The HiLoad EV has already helped reduce over 15,000 tonnes of carbon emissions, equivalent to the positive impact of planting 5.2 lakh trees. With the Storm EV, we aim to expand this impact and offer a zero-emission alternative for intra- and intercity cargo transport.

For example, the Storm LongRange 200 EV provides a 200 km range, enabling intercity movement between nearby locations, typically serviced by diesel vehicles. By offering this practical alternative, we help reduce emissions and improve air quality in urban and semi-urban areas. The focus is making EV adoption a seamless transition for businesses, ultimately contributing to cleaner environments.

How have you addressed battery life, charging infrastructure, and vehicle performance in diverse Indian conditions?

Battery health is impacted by both temperature and daily depth of discharge. We maintain optimal performance, even during extreme and temperate mid-seasons when humidity increases. The BMS monitors battery health and temperature, alerting the Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) if thresholds are exceeded. The VCU recalibrates energy usage and oversees power flow, enhancing efficiency and user experience, especially in high heat.

We have enhanced our charging infrastructure through strategic partnerships supporting the electrification of logistics and commercial transport in India. We partnered with Fyn Mobility to develop charging infrastructure across the country. The Storm LongRange 200 EV supports CCS fast charging, delivering a 100 km range in just 15 minutes, while the Storm T1250 EV offers similar fast-charging capabilities for shorter trips. This helps to alleviate concerns around downtime, making businesses operate efficiently without disruptions.

How do Euler Motors’ connected systems and predictive maintenance features benefit your customers?

Our connected systems, available through the Shepherd platform, provide real-time insights into vehicle performance, including fleet tracking, battery health, and charging status. This allows fleet managers to make informed decisions that optimise operations and reduce downtime.

Predictive maintenance features ensure that potential issues are addressed before they escalate into problems, further enhancing vehicle uptime. Additionally, our Over-The-Air (OTA) updates continuously refine vehicle performance based on real-world data and customer feedback. Security is also a priority, with features like 24/7 CCTV monitoring and anti-theft immobilisation providing added layers of safety for both the vehicle and its cargo.

We aim to provide customers with the tools they need to manage their fleets more effectively, reducing costs and improving operational efficiency by integrating these connected systems.

What steps are you taking to extend battery warranties and develop long-lasting technology?

Long-term reliability is a key focus for us. We offer a standard battery performance warranty of 3 years or 80,000 kilometres. For the HiLoad EV, we guarantee a 10-year battery lifespan, with a battery module replacement in the 5th year to align with EMI periods.

We provide an extended warranty of 7 years or 2,00,000 km for the Storm EV, backed by rigorous testing protocols, including submersion and stress tests across different climates. Our modular battery design allows cell replacements after five years, extending battery life without replacing the entire unit. This process retains essential components like electronics, sensors, temperature controls, and the battery management system, reducing ownership costs and encouraging EV adoption.

Mr. Amit Saluja is the Founder and Managing Partner of digiXLT Consulting. Before starting digiXLT, Amit held leadership positions at NASSCOM, IBM, General Electric, and RPG Transmission in a career spanning over 30 years. He also works as an Advisor to Nasscom CoE. Having worked with industrial and technology companies in multiple domains, Amit has gained a rich and diverse experience in using digital technologies such as AI, Cloud, Analytics, and IoT to usher in greater efficiencies in manufacturing and driving business growth.

Topic – Building Future Ready Digital Factories

Mr. ​Amit Saluja, Managing Partner, digiXLT Consulting LLP .

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Mr. Akash Kadam is a Mechanical Design Engineer with end client Caterpillar in the USA, specialising in developing advanced supply chain and smart manufacturing solutions within the frameworks of Industry 4.0 and 5.0. Leveraging AI, Machine Learning, and Big Data, Akash has over a decade of experience driving innovation in digital manufacturing. He holds a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University, Kingsville, USA, and has authored five research papers with three additional works accepted, all highlighting his expertise in smart manufacturing and supply chain management within the industry 4.0 and 5.0 paradigms.

Topic – AI/ML/Big Data for supply chain and smart manufacturing

Mr. Akash Kadam, Design Engineer IV, Caterpillar Inc.

#business #manufacturing #technology #industry #automation #productivity #businessnews #trending #video #update #magazine #oemupdate

Mr. Tarun Sharma is the COO of NRV DesignX Pvt Ltd, where he leads the overall operations of DesignX, from smart factory consulting to the delivery of scalable Df-OS applications with state-of-the-art technology integrations for manufacturers. He is responsible for driving customer success and mentoring a team of consultants focused on delivery.

Topic – Roadmap for reloading smart factories with AI & ML models.

Mr. Tarun Sharma, Chief Operating Officer, NRV DesignX Pvt Ltd

#business #manufacturing #technology #industry #automation #productivity #businessnews #trending #video #update #magazine #oemupdate

Mr. Pujan Ghelani​ is working as the Director of Partnerships & Business Development​ at Symphony AI. He is an experienced leader passionate about building teams and products at the intersection of digital technology and industrial / manufacturing environments. ​Pujan holds a bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an Executive MBA from the Indian School of Business.​ He has built and managed teams in the Industrial AI & IoT domain across product development, P&L, marketing, pre-sales, talent and operations.

Topic – Smarter Operations with Predictive & Generative AI

Mr. ​Pujan Ghelani, Director of Partnerships & Business Development, Symphony AI

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Mr. ​Sushant Hirave is the Senior Lead Engineer at General Motors Technical Center India, bringing over 20 years of experience. With more than 15 years at General Motors, he has specialised expertise in sheet metal stamping processes, die engineering, formability analysis, die design, and execution. Sushant has a proven track record of working with multicultural teams across regions, including the United States, South Korea, Brazil, Germany, and Australia.

Topic – Virtual Surface Quality Evaluation(VSQE)

Mr. Sushant Hirave, Senior Lead Engineer, General Motors Technical Center India

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Mr. Avinash Khare is working as Consultant & Corporate Trainer for New Manufacturing Technology and Automation. Mr. Khare was engaged at Tata Motors Pune for over 3 decades in functions ranging from Electronic Product & Software Development to Procurement, Maintenance and Application of High Technology machines and presses. Coming from engineering background, he was majorly engaged with IMTMA for 7 years as Head of Pune Technology Centre.

Topic – Scope of Digitalisation in Stamping

Mr. Avinash Khare, Consultant & Corporate Trainer, New Manufacturing Technology and Automation

#business#manufacturing#technology#industry#automation#productivity#businessnews#trending#video#update#magazine#oemupdate

Mr. Vinkesh Gulati is the Vice President of the Automotive Skills Development Council, India. Vinkesh Gulati is an astute business leader and Executive Committee Member of the Federation of Automobile Dealership Association. He also holds the position of Senior Vice President at the United Group of Institutions. He also holds a key position in the Mahindra Advisory Council. With extensive experience in business planning and a dedication to the automobile community, Mr. Gulati has made significant contributions to the growth and success of the industry. Mr Gulati has received numerous awards and was also recognised as Outstanding Leader of the Year 2022 in the Automotive Sector.

Mr. Vinkesh Gulati, Vice President, Automotive Skills Development Council – India

#business #manufacturing #technology #industry #automation #productivity #businessnews #trending #video #update #magazine #oemupdate

The joint venture will focus on selling liquefied natural gas (LNG) to India and other markets, with a separate collaboration planned to create a floating storage and regasification unit.

Swan Energy has inked a preliminary agreement with Singapore’s AG&P Terminals & Logistics to form a joint venture for supplying liquefied natural gas in India and other countries, according to a regulatory filing.

Swan Energy will hold a 51% stake in the joint venture (JV), while AG&P LNG will hold the remaining shares. AG&P LNG will collaborate on Swan Energy’s LNG regasification terminal.

The new joint venture would focus on selling LNG to India and other markets, with a separate collaboration planned to create a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) and a floating storage unit to support Swan Energy’s LNG terminal operations. The FSRU is a vessel that facilitates the transfer of LNG through oceanic channels, converting liquid natural gas into its original gaseous state before being pumped into storage tanks.

Tata Motors has committed to an overall ₹9,000 crore investment in a new vehicle manufacturing project in Tamil Nadu, focusing on high-end cars and SUVs under its Jaguar Land Rover brand.

Tata Motors, a leading manufacturer of passenger and commercial vehicles, has proposed an initial investment of ₹914 crore for a new vehicle manufacturing project in Tamil Nadu, officially breaking ground on September 28 at Panapakkam in Ranipet District, located approximately 85 km from Chennai. The upcoming greenfield facility will concentrate on producing high-end cars and SUVs under Tata Motors’ brand and its luxury division, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR).

As per the agreement signed with the Tamil Nadu government, Tata Motors has committed to an overall ₹9,000 crore investment in a manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu, executed in phases over several years. The first phase will involve a ₹914 crore investment to construct a plant covering 52,000 square meters, out of a total land space of 19,02,022.5 square meters. The project is expected to take 15 months, and the new factory will employ around 1,500 employees.

The company plans to build a new facility with an annual production capacity of over 2.5 lakh units, aiming to serve as a central hub for next-generation cars and SUVs, including electric and luxury models. The facility aims to build a local supplier base, create a localised manufacturing ecosystem, and improve supply chain efficiency.

Autodesk’s suite of tools supports manufacturers by ensuring traceability, enhancing agile manufacturing, and promoting sustainability. Parminder Singh, Head, D&M Business, Autodesk India & SAARC, shares their key innovations, including AI-driven generative design, digital prototyping, and cloud-based collaboration, which improve efficiency, reduce waste, and support circular design principles.

How do Autodesk India’s products support manufacturers in ensuring traceability within their operations? 

We have a comprehensive suite of tools to support manufacturers in ensuring traceability within their operations. Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) enables manufacturers to monitor and control every stage of a product’s journey, from initial concept and design to production, service, and eventual disposal. This ensures that every stage of the product development process is well-documented and traceable. 

Digital prototyping is possible with tools such as Autodesk Inventor, which allows manufacturers to create and test digital prototypes of their products. This reduces the need for physical prototypes; all design changes and iterations can be recorded and traced. The same applies to Autodesk Vault, which provides powerful data management capabilities for manufacturers to store and manage their engineering data securely.

Autodesk’s Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) solutions help manufacturers track real-time production processes, including monitoring the usage of materials, labour, and equipment. 

Autodesk’s solutions support quality management by enabling manufacturers to document quality checks and inspections. This ensures that defects or issues are recorded and traced back to their source. Autodesk’s tools help manufacturers manage their supply chains by providing visibility into the sourcing and movement of materials.

Overall, Autodesk’s suite of tools provides comprehensive support for traceability in manufacturing operations. It allows manufacturers to maintain detailed records of their processes and products, thereby enhancing accountability, compliance, and quality assurance. 

How does Autodesk enable businesses to adapt effectively to fluctuating demand driving the need for agile manufacturing? 

Autodesk provides several tools and solutions that enable businesses to adapt effectively to fluctuating demand and drive agile manufacturing. We have cloud-based platforms like Fusion that allow for real-time collaboration and data sharing across different teams and locations. This ensures that design and engineering teams can work together seamlessly, making responding quickly to changing demands easier. 

Our design tools, such as AutoCAD, Inventor, and Revit, offer powerful capabilities for creating and modifying designs quickly. These tools support rapid prototyping and iterative design processes, allowing manufacturers to adapt their products to meet changing market needs. 

Autodesk’s digital twin technology enables manufacturers to create virtual replicas of their physical products and production processes. This allows for real-time monitoring and simulation, helping businesses to optimise their operations and respond swiftly to changes in demand. 

We have generative design tools that use AI and machine learning to explore design alternatives based on specified constraints and goals. This helps manufacturers quickly identify the most efficient and adaptable designs, reducing time to market and same is followed by our Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions which provide comprehensive tools for managing the entire product lifecycle.

We support additive manufacturing (3D printing) through tools like Netfabb, which streamline the process from design to production. Additive manufacturing enables rapid prototype and final part production, allowing businesses to scale production up or down quickly as per demand. 

Our simulation tools allow manufacturers to test and virtually validate their designs before physical production. This reduces the risk of costly errors and ensures that products can be efficiently adapted for new requirements. 

Our solutions help manufacturers manage their supply chains more effectively by providing visibility into the sourcing and movement of materials. This enables better planning and coordination for manufacturers to respond quickly to supply chain disruptions and demand changes.

How does Autodesk help extend product lifecycles and minimise waste in the context of sustainable and circular designs? 

Our generative design tools use AI and machine learning to generate multiple design alternatives based on specified constraints and goals. This allows designers to optimise for material efficiency, reduce weight, and minimise waste, leading to more sustainable products. Autodesk tools like Fusion and Revit include features for conducting lifecycle assessments. These assessments help designers understand the environmental impact of their materials and processes, enabling more informed decisions that reduce negative environmental impacts throughout the product lifecycle. 

Our design software offers material optimisation capabilities, allowing designers to select sustainable materials with lower environmental impacts. This includes the ability to simulate and analyse different materials’ performance, helping reduce waste and improve recyclability. 

Autodesk’s digital prototyping tools allow designers to create and test virtual models, eliminating the need for physical prototypes, reducing material waste, and accelerating the design process.

We support additive manufacturing (3D printing) through tools like Netfabb. Additive manufacturing generates less waste than traditional subtractive methods because it constructs products layer by layer, using only the precise amount of material needed.

Autodesk’s PLM solutions have tools for managing the entire product lifecycle. This includes capabilities for tracking product usage, maintenance, and end-of-life processes, ensuring that products are used efficiently and sustainably throughout their lifecycle. 

Our tools support design for disassembly, making it easier to拆 products at the end of their life for recycling and reuse, which reduces waste and extends material lifecycles. Autodesk’s tools, like Fusion, include sustainability and environmental impact analysis. These features help designers assess and improve the sustainability of their designs, leading to more efficient and environmentally friendly products. 

By leveraging these tools and solutions, Autodesk helps designers and manufacturers create more sustainable products, have longer lifecycles, and generate less waste. This supports the circular design principles, where products are designed to be reused, refurbished, and recycled, contributing to a more sustainable future. 

Can you share any upcoming innovations from Autodesk that excite the manufacturing community? 

We are continually innovating and these innovations are happening through the integration of AI in our flagship products, Fusion 360 and Alias. One of the standout features is Drawing Automation in Fusion 360, which leverages AI to streamline the creation of 2D drawings from 3D models. This automation reduces the time and effort required for generating manufacturing-ready documentation by automatically laying out drawing sheets, applying styles, and even identifying and removing fasteners. 

In addition, AI capabilities in Alias enhance the design process by providing advanced tools for creating and refining complex surfaces with greater precision and speed. These tools help designers and engineers quickly iterate and optimise their designs for innovative, high-quality products. 

Furthermore, our AI-driven solutions facilitate better collaboration and real-time data sharing, enabling teams to work efficiently and make informed decisions faster.  

How does Autodesk’s generative design technology contribute to advancements in the manufacturing industry? 

Our generative design technology uses algorithms to explore design permutations, optimising for constraints and goals such as weight, strength, cost, and manufacturability. This leads to innovative and efficient design solutions that might not be achievable through traditional design methods. By optimising designs for material usage, generative design helps reduce waste and lower material costs. This benefits industries with high-cost materials, such as aerospace and automotive manufacturing. Generative design helps create components that are lighter and stronger and also suited to their intended functions.

The technology allows designers and engineers to quickly generate and evaluate multiple design alternatives. This accelerates the innovation process, enabling faster product development cycles and quicker time to market. Generative design also makes it easier to create customised and personalised products. This is useful in industries like medical device manufacturing, where tailored solutions can improve patient outcomes. 

Generative design is well-suited for advanced manufacturing techniques such as additive manufacturing (3D printing). It enables the creation of complex geometries that would be difficult or impossible to produce with traditional manufacturing methods. 

Generative design supports sustainable manufacturing practices, utilising resources efficiently and reducing waste. It helps manufacturers lower their environmental impact and adhere to sustainability goals. 

The Raksha Mantri urged the mastery of AI and quantum computing, emphasising their impact on sectors like defense. The focus was on India’s push for self-reliance and the need for stronger collaboration between academia, industry, and R&D to foster innovation.

In order to further solidify India’s position in the realm of advanced, frontier, and cutting-edge innovation, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has urged scientists and engineers to master cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing in step with the times. He was addressing the inaugural session of Indian National Academy of Engineering’s Annual Convention at IIT Delhi on December 19, 2024.

These niche technologies are going to impact almost every sector in a big way in the coming times.  Aim is be to first gain command over these technologies, so that in the future, they can be used for the welfare of the people to fulfil their immediate basic needs.

The defence sector must adapt to the ever-evolving world. India, previously left behind in modern weapons and technology, has since the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, moved towards self-reliance in defence at an unprecedented pace, highlighting the importance of adapting to global changes.

“Modern warfare is changing rapidly, therefore there is a need to adopt high-end technology. Towards this, we have brought out schemes like Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) and Technology Development Fund (TDF) to bring out the talent of the youth, through which as well as the nation’s dreams can come true. India is passing through a defining moment as it is exporting even those weapons which it once imported. He credited this revolutionary transformation to the collective efforts of the public & private sectors, academia, and engineers & innovators, exuding confidence that the country will soon achieve a formidable technical edge in the global arena, said Raksha Mantri.”

While Rajnath Singh lauded the role of IITs in the scientific development of the country in collaboration with DRDO, he called for establishing an even better organic relationship among the industry, research & development organisations and academia. In developed countries, academic campuses play an important role in progressing frontier technologies. There is a need to explore ways on how to co-opt IIT Delhi and similar institutions of higher scientific learning & excellence with the government’s development campaign.

India, the youngest nation, is fostering innovation among its youth through government support and funding. As a hub for start-ups and technological prowess, India is committed to supporting its engineers and innovators. With a shared vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, India aims to realize its potential and contribute to the country’s technological advancement.

Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) for playing a crucial role in making India self-reliant. By focusing on innovation, collaboration and modernisation, this institute has started a technological revolution in India, he said.

INAE is an autonomous professional body partly supported by grant-in-aid from the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. The Academy undertakes meaningful technical activities each year, which have enhanced its visibility in the national engineering domain. INAE is enriched in its functioning through the leadership provided by iconic personalities in engineering and technology as its Presidents including Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. It, presently, has 1,004 Indian Fellows and 107 Foreign Fellows on its rolls identified in 10 Engineering Sections covering the entire gamut of engineering disciplines.

NITI Aayog has released a report on secure, affordable, flexible, and efficient (S.A.F.E.) accommodations for industrial workers in boosting the country’s manufacturing sector. The report highlights the need for a robust workforce strategy, including sufficient, proximate, and affordable housing for industrial workers.

NITI Aayog has released a report on “S.A.F.E. Accommodation – Worker Housing for Manufacturing Growth”. This report explores the important role of secure, affordable, flexible, and efficient (S.A.F.E.) accommodations for industrial workers in boosting India’s manufacturing sector. It identifies key challenges, offers actionable solutions, and highlights the pivotal interventions required to scale up such housing facilities across the country.

In the Union Budget 2024-25, the Finance Minister emphasised the importance of rental housing with dormitory-style accommodations for industrial workers. This initiative, to be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with Viability Gap Funding (VGF) support and commitments from anchor industries, underscores the government’s commitment to addressing a critical component of India’s manufacturing ecosystem.

A vision for Viksit Bharat

India is poised to elevate its manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP from the current 17% to 25% as part of its long-term vision of achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047. This ambitious goal is aligned with the country’s objectives of becoming a global manufacturing hub under flagship initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Realising this vision demands a robust workforce strategy, including sufficient, proximate, and affordable housing for industrial workers.

According to the Economic Survey 2023-24, India needs to generate 7.85 million jobs annually until 2030 to sustain its economic growth trajectory. A portion of these jobs will come from the manufacturing sector, which is increasingly characterized by large-scale mega factories. These facilities require a centralized workforce, often composed of migrant workers, to maintain competitiveness and achieve economies of scale.

Inadequate housing near industrial hubs is a major bottleneck. Poor housing conditions lead to high attrition rates, reduced productivity, and workforce instability. Moreover, the lack of suitable accommodations restricts the migration of workers, particularly women, thereby limiting the sector’s growth potential.

India’s manufacturing sector is at a critical juncture. As the country progresses towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, addressing worker’s accommodation challenges is a priority. Inflexible regulations, financial constraints, and inadequate private sector participation have created significant gaps in the availability of quality housing.

The S.A.F.E. accommodation initiative offers a comprehensive framework to bridge these gaps. By aligning regulatory and financial frameworks, India can unlock the potential for sustainable worker housing solutions that bolster the manufacturing ecosystem, enhance workforce productivity, and attract global investments. 

Why S.A.F.E. accommodation matters

Providing S.A.F.E. accommodations for industrial workers is essential to addressing challenges associated with workforce housing. The report identifies several benefits:

Enhancing Workforce Productivity and Retention: Proximate and well-designed housing improves workers’ quality of life, reduces commute times, and enhances overall productivity. This leads to lower attrition rates and recruitment costs, ensuring a stable and skilled workforce for factories.

Attracting Global Investments: Multinational corporations and global investors increasingly evaluate worker welfare and operational efficiency when making investment decisions. High-quality accommodations demonstrate India’s commitment to international standards, thereby making the country a preferred destination for manufacturing investments.

Aligning with global labour standards: Adherence to international labour standards that prioritize adequate and safe worker housing enhances India’s reputation and competitiveness in the global market. This alignment fosters stronger partnerships with international firms and opens new business opportunities.

Creating a win scenario workers benefit from improved living conditions, leading to higher job satisfaction and reduced turnover rates.

Companies gain from a more stable, productive workforce and reduced labour costs.

The government achieves sustainable urban development, increased foreign investment, and a globally competitive manufacturing sector.

Challenges in scaling up worker accommodation

Restrictive Zoning Laws: Residential developments are often prohibited in industrial zones unless explicitly permitted, forcing workers to live far from their workplaces. This increases commute times and costs, impacting productivity and retention such as,

Conservative building bye-laws: Low Floor Area Ratios (FAR) and other inefficient land-use regulations limit the potential for high-capacity housing on available land.

High operating costs: Hostel accommodations in industrial zones are often classified as commercial establishments, leading to higher property taxes and utility rates. These increased costs discourage private sector participation.

Financial Viability: High capital costs and low returns make large-scale worker accommodation projects unattractive to private developers. Coordination challenges also arise, as industrial hubs require synchronized investments in housing, infrastructure, and industries to succeed.

Proposed solutions: Regulatory recommendations

To address regulatory challenges, the report recommends:

Reclassify worker accommodations: Designate S.A.F.E. accommodations as a distinct category of residential housing to ensure residential property tax, electricity, and water tariffs apply and GST exemptions for accommodations meeting specified criteria (e.g., ₹20,000 per person per month for a continuous stay of 90 days).

Streamline environmental clearances: Include S.A.F.E. accommodations under the exemptions provided for industrial sheds, schools, colleges, and hostels in the draft notification issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).

Promote Gender-Inclusive Policies: Encourage the development of accommodations suitable for workers, addressing their specific safety and welfare needs.

Flexible Zoning Laws: Amend zoning regulations to allow mixed-use developments near industrial hubs, facilitating worker housing close to workplaces.

Proposed solutions: Financial recommendations

To overcome financial barriers, the report suggests: Viability Gap Funding (VGF) rovide up to 30%-40% of project costs (excluding land) through VGF support. This includes 20% from the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) and 10% from the sponsoring nodal ministry, with additional contributions from state governments and amend Annexure 3 of the VGF scheme to include affordable rental housing as an eligible sector.

Competitive Bidding: Implement transparent bidding processes to determine VGF support, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Retrofitting Existing Facilities: Leverage VGF to upgrade brownfield worker accommodations, enhancing their safety, capacity, and utility.

Conclusion

The provision of S.A.F.E. accommodations is not merely a welfare initiative but a strategic imperative for India’s economic growth. It addresses critical challenges in workforce retention, productivity, and global competitiveness, while fostering sustainable urban development.

By implementing the recommendations outlined in this report, India can create a robust ecosystem for industrial worker housing, enabling the manufacturing sector to thrive and contributing significantly to the nation’s Viksit Bharat vision. It is now imperative for all stakeholders—government, industry, and private developers—to collaborate and take decisive action to make S.A.F.E. accommodations a reality.

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for the Automobile and Auto Components Industry, the FAME II scheme to promote electric mobility in India and the launch of the PM E-Drive scheme for promoting green mobility, all combined, fostered a fruitful year for the manufacturing sector.

The key initiatives/achievements/events of the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) during the year 2024 gave a boost to the manufacturing sector. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the Automobile and Auto Components Industry, was the most sought-after scheme with a budgetary outlay of ₹25,938 crore, to enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities for Advanced Automotive Technology (AAT) products, overcome cost disabilities, and build a robust supply chain. The scheme covers FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28, with incentive disbursements from FY 2024-25 to FY 2028-29. The scheme offers incentives of 13%-18% for Electric Vehicle and Hydrogen Fuel Cell components and 8%-13% for other AAT components. As of September 2024, ₹20,715 crore investment and ₹10,472 crore incremental sales have been achieved, with the first incentive disbursement planned for FY 2024-25. Key features include a minimum 50% domestic value addition and eligibility for domestic and export sales.

The FAME-II Scheme, launched in 2019 with an outlay of ₹11,500 crore is to promote electric mobility in India through demand incentives for e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-4Ws, e-buses, and EV public charging stations (PCS). As of October 31, 16.15 lakh EVs have been incentivised: 14.27 lakh e-2Ws, 1.59 lakh e-3Ws, 22,548 e-4Ws, and 5,131 e-buses. Additionally, 10,985 EV PCS have been sanctioned, with 8,812 allocated for installation. The scheme includes a phased manufacturing program and has supported significant policy initiatives, such as reducing GST on EVs and enabling state EV policies, contributing to India’s transition to sustainable mobility.

The PM E-DRIVE Scheme, with a total outlay of ₹10,900 crore, was implemented from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026, to promote green mobility and develop the EV manufacturing ecosystem. The allocation includes ₹3,679 crore for subsidies to incentivise 28 lakh e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-ambulances, and e-trucks; ₹4,391 crore for the procurement of 14,028 e-buses by public transport agencies; ₹2,000 crores for installing 22,100 fast chargers for e-4Ws, 1,800 fast chargers for e-buses, and 48,400 fast chargers for e-2Ws/3Ws; ₹780 crores for upgrading testing agencies; ₹500 crores each for deploying e-ambulances and e-trucks; and ₹50 crore for administrative expenses.

The Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars (SMEC) in India, notified on March 15, 2024, aims to attract global investments, promote India as a manufacturing hub for electric vehicles (e-4Ws), and boost domestic value addition (DVA). Approved applicants need a minimum of ₹4,150 crore (USD 500 million) within three years, achieving 25% DVA during this period and 50% within five years. The scheme allows limited imports of e-4Ws at reduced customs duty, capped at 8,000 vehicles per year, with a total duty foregone per applicant limited to ₹6,484 crore or the committed investment. The scheme emphasises strict DVA compliance, advanced performance criteria for e-4Ws, and coordination through an inter-ministerial sanctioning committee, with testing by accredited agencies like ARAI, ICAT, and GARC.

Government approved Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for setting up manufacturing facilities for Advance Chemistry Cell (ACC), Battery Storage in India, with an outlay of Rs. 18,100 crore for 7 years. The Scheme aims to enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities and envisages incentivising large domestic and international players to establish a competitive ACC battery set-up in India.

Other Initiatives-

1. Ministry of Heavy Industries organised a PLI-Auto Conclave under the chairmanship of Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey, Minister of Heavy Industries on 16.01.2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, highlighting the salient features of the PLI Scheme for Automobile and Auto Component Industry and undertaking stakeholder consultation. Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar, Minister of State for Heavy Industries and Power was also present during the PLI Auto Conclave. The vehicles approved under the scheme were also displayed during the event. In the conclave, the Minister urged the stakeholders to increase indigenisation in the Auto Industry paving the path for “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.
2. BHEL has successfully developed an 85 KW Axial Flux Permanent Magnet (PM) based motor for e-mobility and defence applications. This technology offers a substantial reduction in size & weight and is ARAI-certified for e-bus. Its performance has also been demonstrated to the Indian Navy at Naval Dockyard, Vizag.
3. MHI launched the PM E-DRIVE Scheme at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 1st October 2024. Union Minister (HI & Steel) Shri H. D. Kumaraswamy, along with MoS (HI & Steel) Shri Bhupathi Raju Srinivassa Varma, presided over the event in the presence of senior officials and key leaders from the automotive industry.
4. The Second India-Japan Joint Working Group (JWG) Meeting on Automotive took place on 6 November 2024, in New Delhi, under the India-Japan Industrial Competitiveness Partnership (IJICP). It included a Japanese delegation, Indian industry associations, and government officials. Discussions centred on bilateral cooperation in hybrid vehicle incentives, automotive recycling, ADAS, cyber security, and capacity building. The meeting aimed to strengthen ties in the automotive sector.
5. A Statement of Intent (SOI) was signed between the Ministry of Defence (India) and the Ministry of Defence (UK) on 28th November 24 for cooperation on the design & development of an Electric Propulsion System (EPS) for Indian Naval ships.

Genesis will acquire a $4 million stake in SpiceJet as part of a $16 million dispute settlement, with SpiceJet paying $6 million to Genesis. The airline has agreed to withdraw all ongoing litigations and disputes related to the matter.

Genesis will acquire a stake worth $4 million in the SpiceJet aircraft airline as part of the settlement of a $16 million dispute, and the airline will also pay $6 million to Genesis. SpiceJet, which raised a ₹ 3,000 crore budget, has been settling various disputes with lessors and other entities.

SpiceJet and both parties have agreed to withdraw all ongoing litigations and disputes related to the matter, subject to satisfying the settlement terms. SpiceJet airline has reached a settlement with Genesis to resolve their over $16 million dispute.

Carlyle Aviation has agreed to convert $30 million of lease arrears into SpiceJet equity at a price of ₹ 100 per share in September.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is hosting Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 from 17th to 22nd January 2025, across three venues in Delhi NCR: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, and India Expo Centre and Mart, Greater Noida.

The event will feature more than nine concurrent shows, a series of engaging conferences, and dedicated pavilions, all centred around the 16 focus areas that reflect the diverse opportunities in the mobility value chain.

Covering a massive area of over 200,000 square meters, the expo will welcome more than 1,500 exhibitors, over 500,000 enthusiastic visitors, and 5,000 global buyers, establishing itself as a significant global mobility platform.

At the Curtain Raiser event on 6th of November, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, commended the efforts of supporting ministries, industry bodies, and the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) for organising this global mobility event in India. The Minister also unveiled the event brochure and event film, marking the commencement of preparations for this landmark event. Shri Jitin Prasada, Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, also graced the event.

The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 promises to be yet another landmark event, following the resounding success of last year’s edition, heralding a new era of collaboration and innovation in the mobility sector. Inspired by the 7Cs mobility vision set by the Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi, the global expo celebrates India’s growing role as a global hub for mobility, showcasing success across the automotive and mobility value chain and cutting-edge technologies.

The expo will showcase a grand exhibition highlighting the latest advancements and breakthroughs in the mobility ecosystem. Specialised showcases will include Auto Expo – The Motor Show showcasing products and technologies with respect to multiple powertrains, Auto Expo The Components Show, and the Mobility Tech Pavilion, which will spotlight connected and autonomous technologies and infotainment systems. Other highlights include the Urban Mobility and Infrastructure Show, focusing on sustainable urban transportation systems like drones and public transport, as well as the Battery Show, Construction Equipment Expo, Steel Pavilion, Tyre Show, and Cycle Show, featuring innovations in new models and accessories. The event will also delve into EV infrastructure and alternative fuel technologies, such as hydrogen, covering the entire spectrum of automotive and mobility advancements. Complementing this vast exhibition, over 20 conferences will bring together global experts to discuss various aspects of the mobility value chain, providing a holistic platform for knowledge sharing.

The expo will host over 34 prominent vehicle manufacturers unveiling new models and electric vehicles, alongside displays of electric, hybrid, CNG, and biofuel-powered vehicles from both international and domestic companies. Leading pure EV manufacturers such as Ather Energy, Ola Electric, Vayve Mobility, Eka Mobility, and Vietnam’s Vinfast will further drive the electric revolution. More than 800 auto component manufacturers and 1,000 brands from over 13 global markets are going to exhibit their products, technologies, and services tailored to OEMS and the aftermarket. Dedicated country pavilions from Germany, the UK, South Korea, and Japan, along with participation from nations like the USA, Spain, UAE, China, Russia, Italy, Turkey, Singapore, and Belgium, will make the event a global platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth in the mobility ecosystem.

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal while addressing the curtain raiser event for the Bharat Mobility Expo in New Delhi said that the event reflects the India vision story and unifies the entire mobility value chain under a single umbrella. The Expo’s theme, ‘Beyond Boundaries: Co-Creating the Future of the Automotive Value Chain,’ aligns seamlessly with the nation’s vision for a connected and integrated world, he said. He further emphasised on the government’s commitment to support the sector in its aim to become the pinnacle for mobility technology across the world and encouraged a faster transition to electric vehicles. India’s story is a compulsive investment story that leverages skill, vision, and ambition. Bharat Mobility Expo helps showcase India’s story in attracting investments and expanding trade and exports, he said. He urged the participants to invite international players to expand their businesses and leverage India’s growth story.

The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 is a Ministry of Commerce and industry-led initiative and is being coordinated by Engineering Export Promotion Council India (EEPC India) with the joint support of 11+ Apex Industry associations namely SIAM, ACMA, ICEMA, AТМA, IESA, NASSCOM, ISA, MRAI, ITPO, Yashobhoomi, IEML, IBEF, CII, Invest India along with PwC India as the knowledge partner. This expanded event will be held in collaboration with 15 ministries, state governments, industry associations, and numerous industry leaders

The partnership leverages Daikin India’s market leadership, deep industry expertise, sales network, and robust technical support, alongside Rechi Precision’s proven rotary compressor technology and manufacturing prowess.

Global leader in the HVAC industry, Daikin Industries Ltd., through its 100% subsidiary, Daikin Air Conditioning India Pvt. Ltd., and global leader in the compressor business, Rechi Precision Co. Ltd., Taiwan, disclosed the setup of a joint venture company to manufacture, design, and sell rotary (inverter & non-inverter) compressors in India and some overseas markets under a joint venture agreement (“JV Agreement”). Rechi Precision’s innovative rotary compressor technology complements Daikin India’s portfolio and delivers substantial benefits, including localised products, affordability, and enhanced reliability. The joint venture is expected to become operational by the 4th quarter of FY24~25. The manufacturing facility shall be established at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh.

This JV agreement leverages Daikin India’s market leadership, deep industry expertise, sales network, and robust technical support alongside Rechi Precision’s proven rotary compressor technology & manufacturing prowess. Together, they will provide residential customers with cost-effective air conditioners and support the high cooling demand. This collaboration plays a pivotal role in accelerating the shift towards AC adoption by the rising middle class, meeting both affordability & availability, relevant for India & overseas consumption. 

 Under this JV agreement, a joint venture will be established in India with Daikin India holding a majority share. In the initial phase of the partnership, efforts will concentrate on providing test samples of Rechi Group Taiwan’s rotary compressors (both inverter and noninverter) to India’s AC manufacturers to facilitate swift adoption and evaluation. 

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in broadening Daikin India’s offerings, enabling us to deliver a wider array of advanced rotary compressor technologies tailored for residential HVAC solutions,” said KJ Jawa, Chairman & Managing Director of Daikin India. “As the market witnesses growing demand for cost-effective air conditioners, our extensive sales network, customer-centric approach, strong brand reputation, and reliable after-sales support—combined with Rechi Precision’s innovative rotary compressor expertise—will empower us to provide economical and efficient air-conditioning options for our valued customers.”

“This JV formation is in line with our mid-term business strategy to establish a major hub in India. By partnering with Rechi Precision, a Taiwanese company known for its cost-effective material procurement and manufacturing expertise and extensive global track record in compressor sales, we aim to build a business foundation for compressor production and sales in India. Specifically, this new company will produce and sell compressors domestically to alleviate supply shortages and cater to both Daikin internal and external demand. As we expand our business, we will support the “Make in India” policy as a leading air conditioning company and contribute to the sustainable growth of the Indian market through stable supply. said Shoji Uehara, Executive Officer, Global Operations Division, Daikin Industries Limited, Japan

“In this joint venture, Rechi Precision will bring technical know-how, R&D, continuous product development, and production engineering capability and play a key role in setting up sales and service capability in India for Rotary Compressor. Advantages of JV: Localisation: The JV will augment manufacturing, designing, & sales of compressors in India and some overseas territories, especially as the demand for affordable, feature-rich products matures. Future Expansion Potential: The joint venture includes plans to build a new 33-acre manufacturing plant in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, India, ensuring we meet growing customer demand and scale for future market shifts. Value-based & Affordable Solutions: As trends toward ACs accelerate, this agreement will provide customers with reliable, high-performance products and cost-competitive ACs to meet those needs. Confidential—Not for Public Consumption or Distribution Business. We are very excited to partner with Daikin and bring the latest technology in the field of rotary compressors to India.” said Chen, Shen Tien, Chairman of Sampo Corporation, Holding Company of Rechi Precision.

To meet quality standards, the industry uses advanced technologies and smart manufacturing to scale processes and improve efficiency. Deepesh Upadhyay, Assistant Vice President of Delair India Pvt. Ltd, discusses the challenges faced by the Indian pharma industry, including quality checks, high production costs, and strict regulatory environments. 

The Indian pharma industry has become the largest global provider of generic medicines. However, there are certain challenges due to quality checks, high production costs, and a strict regulatory environment, despite promising prospects. Substandard drugs and medicines can impact the life expectancy of individuals. This mandate requires adhering to good manufacturing practices set by regulatory bodies like the FDA. Here, failing to conform to the quality standards can result in product recalls from the market, and with the country’s pharma exports reaching US$ 25.02 billion in 2024, the demand for high-quality medicines that meet international standards is increasing.

The industry is utilising advanced technologies to scale processes and incorporate smart manufacturing for efficiency and accuracy, leading to product cost-effectiveness.

Pneumatic machines

The pharma industry utilises pneumatic processes in manufacturing and packaging products, but these machines are constantly at risk of damage due to moisture-laden compressed air. Pneumatic machines rely on compressed air, and the slightest presence of moisture can cause corrosion, which can freeze during winters, disrupting smooth operations and causing sluggish functioning of valves and cylinders, as the presence of moisture can lead to a freeze. The pharma industry utilises desiccant dryers to enhance efficiency by removing moisture, dust particles, oil, and other solid contaminants from compressed air. It achieves quality standards of ISO 8573-1:2010 Class 1 and ensures optimal atmospheric dew point temperature range of (-40°C) to (-70°C) max. The dryers utilise the heatless regeneration principle, utilising the desiccant to adsorb and desorb water vapour, and the pressure swing/purge air principle is applied to facilitate the regeneration of the desiccant bed. 

Understanding pneumatic processes leads to precise, reliable, and safe operation in the pharma industry to regulate processes with automated methods. Therefore, compressed air dryers can improve the efficiency of pneumatic equipment with optimal functioning.

Delair compressed air dryers offer numerous benefits, including efficient resource utilisation and reduced energy consumption. It has advanced systems that exercise precision in managing energy-saving drying cycles with the Dew Point Based Dependence System (DPDS) for purge optimisation. The technology reduces purge losses by extending the regeneration cycle time, leading to substantial energy savings. Moreover, the system has automatic condensate management and differential pressure gauges, enabling advanced filtration. This combination of various factors eliminates dust, oil aerosols, and vapours, ensuring high air purity and reliability.

Key trends in pharma manufacturing

Delair is continuously developing its technologies to improve offerings, and our industry advancements indicate the potential for digitisation and automation in the future. Advanced features like remote monitoring and predictive maintenance detect early faults to reduce downtime and save financial losses.

The Transport Corporation of India Ltd (TCI)- Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) Supply Chain Sustainability Lab at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore has achieved ISO 14083 certification for its Transportation Emissions Measurement Tool (TEMT).

The TCI-IIMB Supply Chain Sustainability Lab at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB), founded in collaboration with Transport Corporation of India Ltd (TCI), has become the first organization in India to achieve ISO 14083 certification for its groundbreaking digital platform, the Transportation Emissions Measurement Tool (TEMT). This certification underscores the platform’s ability to accurately quantify and report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from freight transportation activities, helping organizations to measure, manage, and ultimately reduce their transportation-related emissions in line with regulatory requirements and sustainability goals.

In India, the transportation sector is responsible for around 14% of the country’s total GHG emissions, with freight transportation accounting for nearly 40% of CO₂ emissions within this sector. Without intervention or cleaner technologies, transportation emissions are projected to increase by 4-fold between 2016 & 2050, potentially reaching 1.17 billion tonnes of CO₂ by 2050 and would increase the share of transport in total emissions to 19%. Accurate measurement is the critical first step toward mitigating these emissions. Organizations need robust tools to measure their emissions before they can take meaningful action to reduce them. The Transportation Emissions Measurement Tool (TEMT), with its certified emissions factors across multiple transport modes, empowers organizations to quantify and report emissions accurately, setting the stage for effective emission-reduction strategies.

ISO 14083, developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), provides a global standard for quantifying GHG emissions from transport operations. Applicable to road, rail, air, maritime, and inland waterway transport, it covers fuel combustion and electricity consumption. The standard outlines calculation methods, data requirements, and reporting guidelines, offering a standardized framework for tracking emissions and enabling organizations to make informed decisions on emission-reduction strategies.

NICDC Logistics Data Services Limited (NLDSL), a subsidiary of the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has integrated ISO 14083 emission factors API into its flagship program, the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP). This integration enables users to seamlessly calculate emissions from freight activities, promoting transparency and sustainability in logistics operations. Shri Girish Kumar Surpur, CEO and Director, NICDC Logistics Data Services Ltd, mentioned that as NLDSL continues to innovate for a sustainable future, ULIP’s Carbon Emissions API, developed in collaboration with – TCI-IIMB Supply Chain Sustainability Lab at IIM Bangalore empowers trade and logistics players to measure the environmental impact of their transportation activities. By calculating the emissions and utilising other data sources available with ULIP — companies now can develop tools necessary for informed, actionable decisions on sustainability including modal shifts. Together, we can drive meaningful change towards a lower-carbon logistics ecosystem.

The Transportation Emissions Measurement Tool (TEMT) is a comprehensive online platform designed to measure emissions across all modes of transportation. It integrates India-specific emission factors, validated through ISO 14083 certification, ensuring data accuracy and relevance. The tool allows users to calculate emissions for both past and future shipments and compare emissions between different transport modes for a given origin-destination pair. It also offers users the flexibility to build customized transportation chains, with all past entries securely stored in the cloud for easy monthly tracking and year-over-year comparison. The platform is commodity-agnostic, meaning it applies to all types of shipments, and outputs are available in PDF and CSV formats for ease of reporting and analysis.

The alliance for the production of spherical atomized aluminium granules will assist in the manufacturing of high-end applications in aerospace, solar panels, and high-value effect pigments.

The global manufacturer in the effect pigment market, ECKART (headquartered in Germany), has made agreement with Runaya, a pioneer in sustainable manufacturing to establish a new facility in Orissa to produce amongst the most sustainable spherical atomized aluminium granules. These products are witnessing high demand growth in India and global markets. The granules cater to high-end applications in aerospace, solar panels, and high-value effect pigments.

The joint venture will primarily use recycled aluminium and renewable energy sources for its production. It will serve Indian and global growth markets and leverage India’s position as a global hub for low-cost, cutting-edge manufacturing solutions.

Runaya and ECKART have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to manufacture high-quality aluminium pigments.

India is leading the global adoption of AI, according to Freshworks’. India is at the forefront of AI adoption, with 74% of workers using AI daily. The report also found that 74% of AI experts are more comfortable and trusting than the global average of 55%.

The Freshworks’ AI Workplace Report indicates that companies in India are highly optimistic about the importance of AI for business success in 2025. With 79% of organisations planning to increase AI budgets and an anticipated 41% average rise in spending from 2024—the largest globally—India is setting new benchmarks in AI integration and innovation, driven by confidence in its ROI.

The Freshworks’ AI Workplace Report surveyed 4,000 professionals, including C-suite executives, globally across HR, IT, customer services and support, finance and accounting, sales, marketing, and legal departments.

India Leads Global AI Adoption and Trust

The report finds India at the forefront of AI adoption, with an exceptional level of expertise and confidence in AI-powered software that sets it apart globally. Globally, 26% of workers say they use AI every day. In India, that figure is nearly double, with 45% saying they use it daily.

Indian professionals, with 74% identifying as AI experts, are more comfortable and trusting than the global average of 55%. 91% of employees feel at ease using AI tools, and 90% trust AI to enhance work processes.

A key driver of this progress is that India has the highest percentage of employees stating mandatory AI-use policies within their workplaces, with 65% saying they are required to use AI within all or part of their workload—the highest percentage globally. This is particularly evident in IT and marketing, where employees were quick to point out that AI is both powerful and quick to show results and even “necessary” to some employees.

In India 88% of workers use AI-powered software weekly, a rate that outpaces all other regions, including the US, UK, and Europe. As a result, 85% of leaders of organisations in India report improved ROI from their AI investments, with IT and marketing departments seeing the most notable returns.

Investment in workforce upskilling

In India, businesses are prioritising workforce readiness, with 90% saying AI solutions are necessary to drive business success by 2025. A significant 88% of these businesses are focusing on AI training to future-proof their workforce, the highest among global counterparts like the UK (66%), Australia (62%), and Europe (67%).

These initiatives are heavily focused on ongoing security training (50%), along with upfront onboarding for AI tools (40%), reflecting the nation’s advanced AI adoption rate. Marketing (84%) and IT (81%) teams in India lead the race when it comes to the implementation of training the workforce on AI.

AI as a catalyst for career growth

Over two-thirds (67%) of Indian workers report career advancements tied to AI adoption, higher than the US (34%) and UK (35%), where AI’s impact on career growth is comparatively nascent.

Shelton Rego, Vice President of Freshworks India, said, “This report provides a fascinating overview of AI adoption globally, with India standing out with exceptional levels of usage and expertise. The combination of mandatory AI integration and workforce upskilling initiatives is driving India’s productivity and innovation to new heights.”

Rego added, “AI agents will increasingly be an integral part of how businesses approach delivering experiences to their customers while making lives easier for their employees. We have been empowering this change for businesses and the data now shows the large scale impact AI has for these high volume, high performance business functions.”

AI chatbots are revolutionising customer and employee service in India, transforming workplace functions and fostering a more efficient and effective work environment. The majority (88%) of IT service and customer service professionals in India consider AI chatbots essential to ease their workloads. These tools streamline operations, enhance service quality, and allow employees to focus on strategic initiatives. Furthermore, 84% of customer service teams utilise AI for critical tasks, such as managing online self-service portals and monitoring customer interactions for quality assurance. The widespread adoption of AI tools has resulted in 48% of employees noting improved client experiences.

India’s confidence in AI, coupled with its widespread adoption and high levels of trust, places the country firmly ahead of global counterparts in AI-driven workplace success. This growing integration not only promises enhanced productivity but solidifies India’s position as a leader in the next wave of technological evolution.

Battery diagnostics are crucial in battery energy storage systems (BESS) and mobility markets, as battery degradation can lead to unexpected failures or safety concerns.

Battery diagnostics are a necessary tool in the battery energy storage system (BESS) and mobility markets. Over the course of a lifetime, battery degradation can lead to unexpected early failures or even safety concerns, which can be catastrophic in larger battery deployments. To counteract these concerns, battery health (SoH) and degradation must be tracked. To do this, measurements of basic electrochemical properties (voltage, current, resistance) are required, ideally over a large time period. The battery management system (BMS) can provide this data, but the system itself has limited analytic capacity. External diagnostics, in which analysis is performed after uploading to a cloud, allow for more efficient use of BMS data. Machine learning methods are some of the most promising for this form of battery diagnostics.

Supervised learning methods are the primary algorithms employed in AI-assisted battery diagnostics. They are used to solve two distinct problem classes: regression and classification. In regression problems, the aim is to estimate the true value of a continuous property, e.g. state of charge (SoC), remaining useful lifetime (RUL) or state of health (SoH). In classification problems, the aim is to sort candidates into distinct groups, e.g. ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cells, or ‘highly degraded’ and ‘less degraded’. For both problem classes, traditional methods involve physics-based calculation and modelling, which presents challenges, as battery degradation modes are complex processes with many dependencies. However, data-driven machine learning techniques, such as artificial neural network (ANN), decision tree methods and k-means clustering, can be used in conjunction with or in place of physics-based modelling, to better assess cell degradation.

Usually, specific degradation modes are identified through classification. A number of flags are used, each corresponding to indicative behaviours during charging and usage. This identifies degradation early, allowing cell charging profiles and usage strategies to be modified to limit degradation growth. In this way, AI-assisted diagnostics have proven battery lifetime and increase the overall safety of the deployment. AI-assisted diagnostics have proven to offer an improved battery lifetime of 10-20%.

Improvements in lifetime and reductions in risk are vital to insurers, who seek to minimize the cost and number of payouts. As such, ensuring that a suitable diagnostic service is provided for insured battery deployments can be advantageous. Already, the market has seen arrangements whereby an insurer will offer better premiums for fleet and BESS owners should they use machine-learning-assisted diagnostics services.

This has been seen especially in the European market, which has many active players in the cloud-based diagnostics space. Two of the larger third-party cloud-based players are ACCURE and TWAICE, with ACCURE currently the market leader in the BESS space. HDI insurance has clarified that it will offer better premiums for clients using ACCURE’s diagnostics services, for the reasons listed above. Meanwhile, TWAICE announced an insurance partnership with NARDAC in June 2024, publishing a whitepaper supporting the benefits of a diagnostics-based approach to risk management.

The AI-assisted diagnostics market, specifically the third-party market for cloud-based services, is set to reach a global capacity of 190 GWh by 2035, with a CAGR of 23.4%. This growth will be fueled in part by arrangements between insurance providers and diagnostics players. By reducing premiums, a tangible value proposition even beyond lifetime increase can be provided, further incentivizing BESS and mobility players to utilize these services. IDTechEx predicts that AI-assisted battery diagnostics will become the norm across much of the BESS industry.

NORD Drivesystems has seen a positive conclusion after SPS 2024, the automation trade fair in Nuremberg. The company’s stand at the fair attracted more visitors than last year, with a focus on efficient electric motors (IE5+) and decentralised drive electronics. 

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS draws a positive conclusion after SPS 2024. The renewed increase in visitor numbers at the automation trade fair in Nuremberg was also noticeable at the stand of the North German supplier of drive solutions. 

Gernot Zarp, Sales Manager at NORD, SAI, “SPS has proven to be the summit of the automation experts, as its organisers describe it, and has again attracted more visitors than last year. For NORD, this year’s trade fair presentation in Nuremberg has also proven to be a successful platform for contact with customers. Our focus topics, efficient electric motors: IE5+ and decentralised drive electronics, were in high demand among trade fair visitors. We were able to welcome a large number of interested visitors at our stand, which resulted in inspiring discussions and valuable contacts.” 

NORD’s presentation focused on

IE5+ synchronous motors: They exceed the highest defined efficiency class and achieve efficiencies of up to 95%. In combination with its NORDAC frequency inverters, NORD offers one of the most efficient drive systems currently available on the market. 

Decentralised NORDAC ON/ON+ frequency inverters: Being the latest member of the product family, NORDAC ON gets new functional safety features in the form of SLS, SMS, and SSM.  The decentralised NORDAC LINK SK 250E frequency inverter: With this, NORD offers a freely configurable inverter with full plug-in capability for wall-mounting close to the motor. 

The revised NORDCON parameterisation software: In line with the mobile app, the newest Windows app now features an individual dashboard. Together with new additional features, NORDCON now enables even easier parameterisation and monitoring of NORD drives—stationary and mobile. 

Solutions for the evolving industry 

With its focus topics and displayed products, NORD emphasised its solution expertise for changing requirements in the industry. We support our customers with innovative drive systems that help them in solving challenging problems. The conversations at the trade fair confirmed that there is a great demand for that. The framework conditions, for example in terms of energy and cost efficiency, are changing. With our industry knowledge, which comprises more than 100 industries, and our modular system, we can therefore make a significant contribution to our customers’ continued success.

Gernot Zarp thanks all visitors of the NORD stand. “We were happy about the lively interest and intensive exchange. The Sales Manager also thanks the SPS and stand team in Nuremberg. “You played a major role in making the trade fair a success for NORD. To be continued in the next year. Then, SPS will take place from 25 to 27 November 2025.”

With this expansion, JK Cement Ltd. (JKCL) is set to strengthen its presence in Eastern India, marking a significant step toward balancing demand and supply at a national level.

JK Cement expands its operations with the Bhoomi Pujan ceremony for its new Grey Cement Grinding Unit in Buxar, Bihar. This expansion is part of the company’s initiative to strengthen its footprint in Eastern India and contribute to the region’s infrastructural and economic development.

The foundation stone was laid by Dr. Nidhipati Singhania, Vice Chairman, of JK Cement Ltd, Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director and CEO, JK Cement Ltd and other senior officials. The event signifies the beginning of a new chapter for the company on its journey to serve the growing demands of the Bihar market with world-class cement products.

The new Grinding Unit will address the rising demand for premium cement in Bihar as the market expands. The proposed capacity of the Buxar unit is 3.00 MTPA and will enable the company plans to cross-production capacity of 30 MTPA by next year. The investment for this project amounts to over ₹500 crore.

Dixon Technologies (India) Limited and Chinese smartphone maker Vivo’s India business have agreed to a joint venture. The joint venture will become an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and produce electronic devices.

Electronics contract manufacturing company  Dixon Technologies (India) Limited and Chinese smartphone maker Vivo’s India business have entered into a binding term sheet for a proposed joint venture, with Dixon holding 51% of the shares. The entity that will house the JV will become an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) like Dixon and make electronic devices, including smartphones.

The facility will handle Vivo’s OEM orders of smartphones in India and can also undertake OEM business for other brands’ electronic products. Chinese smartphone makers Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi are exploring the possibility of integrating Indian partners into their manufacturing operations, with discussions involving joint ventures where Indian entities could hold majority ownership.

Atul B. Lall, vice chairman and managing director of Dixon, said, “We believe that this association will bolster our manufacturing excellence and superior execution abilities and Vivo’s leadership in the Indian business ecosystem,” adding that the partnership would strengthen Dixon’s strong foothold in the Android smartphone ecosystem in India. There is immense potential to further build on shared capabilities together in times to come, to deliver sustainable growth for the proposed venture.”

Dixon’s potential takeover of Vivo’s facilities will be determined in the coming months. Vivo announced in 2019 a ₹7,500 crore investment to boost manufacturing in India.

Jerome Chen, CEO of Vivo India, said, “We are delighted to sign a term sheet with Dixon which boasts rich localised management experience and outstanding professional manufacturing prowess. The partnership would effectively complement the current manufacturing operations of Vivo India.”

The transaction will require the execution of definitive agreements, completion of customary conditions, and receipt of regulatory approvals, including those required under Indian foreign exchange control laws.

Suchi Semicon has started producing semiconductors without the Centre’s incentive and plans to invest $100 million over three years. The company has applied for the Centre’s incentive under SPECS and India Semiconductor Mission.

Gujarat-based Suchi Semicon has started production of semiconductors without the Centre’s incentive and plans to invest USD 100 million in three years.

Ashok Mehta, Suchi Group Chairman and Suchi Semicon founder, said, “Though the company has applied for the Centre’s incentive under SPECS (Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors) and the India Semiconductor Mission, it does not want to hold on to production for the sake of incentives. We have a foolproof business plan. Our business plan is not primarily for incentives. We have set up a plant to do business. The Centre’s approval will come when we meet their requirements. We have made a USD 100 million (about ₹840 crore) investment plan over three years. The state government has approved 20 percent incentives for the plant.”

Suchi Semicon already has clients who have placed their requirements. The majority of their production will be for overseas clients. They have started trial production some time back, and components are getting tested by clients. Suchi Semicon has plans to get into power semiconductors in the second phase of expansion, which can be next financial year.

Shetal Mehta, co-founder of Suchi Semicon, said, “The commercial shipment of the semiconductors will start in the first quarter of next year. After completion of testing, the commercial shipment will start. Some of the applications where our components will be used take 2 weeks for test and approval, and in some it may take 3-4 months. We expect commercial shipments for most of the applications to start in the first quarter.”

The government is requesting that Suchi Semicon have a robust backup plan to avoid adverse business impacts. A technology partnership will enhance the company’s profile, and the Centre will approve the plant for incentives under the India Semiconductor Mission, provided it meets two conditions: technology partner experience and sector expertise.