Indian robotics industry bullish on growth prospects [November 2012]

December 3, 2012 8:29 am

Despite having numerous challenges, the robotics industry in India is confident of higher growth with States like Gujarat, Haryana and Maharashtra are attracting more investments from the automotive industry, said Anish Soneja, CEO & Founder, Menzel Vision & Robotics
Could you brief us on the current status of robotics industry in India highlighting the demand-supply scenario?A good way to illustrate the state of robotics in India would be – we are today where China was 4 years ago and Europe approximately 10 years ago. The use of robotics in developed countries has grown even in the domain of autonomous robots and service robots but in India even industrial robots are still to really come of age.
With the growth in China getting somewhat into cruise mode from speed mode, lot of robot manufacturers are looking for sales into India, Russia and Brazil which are the so called emerging markets.
What are the major growth drivers for this sector?As we see more of MNC’s – more world-class contracted and subcontracted manufacturing companies moving into India, there will be a rise on the emphasis on automation with robotics at the top of the helm. Subsequently, there shall be increased pressure on established Indian manufacturers to ramp up production volumes and also quality which would entail more investment on robotics. The slowly but surely rising labour costs and the increasing attraction for unskilled, semi-skilled labours to retail industry and the skilled workers to BPO’s shall also force manufacturers to start thinking seriously about both streamlining and modernising manufacturing processes which should see more robots on the Indian factory floors.
Where does the Indian robotics industry stand in comparison with global market?The Indian robotic industry barring one or two players comprises mostly subsidiaries or integrators of the big MNC robotic manufacturers. The served market is quite small as of now which means more of good players and limited customers.
There are good efforts in our IIT’s and other engineering colleges being funded and supported by Dept of Science and Technology to work on robotic related projects which shall provide the spark for home grown entrepreneurs.
How do you see the availability of technology and skills as far as Indian market for robotics is concerned?We have access to the state-of-the-art latest machines and technology at the disposal of the Indian industry. With the world becoming a global village the customers are becoming well educated and wish to adopt only the latest technology. 

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