India's Manufacturing Revolution: Embracing Robotics for Global Competitiveness
Phillips Education
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Indian manufacturing is at a pivotal moment, poised to capitalize on global value chain realignments and position itself as a viable alternative to eastern neighbors. The government's goal is to increase manufacturing's share of GDP from ~15% to 25% under the Make in India initiative. Achieving this requires an export-led strategy focused on product assembly and discrete manufacturing, particularly in sectors with potential for large economies of scale and vertical integration.
The Economic Survey of India 2019–20 highlights the importance of these sectors, and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme covers 8 out of 14 high-growth product assembly sectors.
To reach economic goals and enhance global competitiveness, Indian companies must improve productivity through digital transformation and robotic automation. The World Robotics Report 2022 indicates a strong correlation between large manufacturing hubs and investment in robotics. India, currently 10th in global robot installations, has immense growth potential in this area.
However, global robotic solutions are often too costly for India. The key is developing affordable, customized automation solutions for Indian industries. Beyond financial metrics, the goal is to enhance productivity, produce higher quality goods, and create high-skill jobs. Indigenous solutions for digital transformation and robotic automation will be crucial in achieving these objectives and pushing manufacturing to 25% of GDP.