Archives July 2025

By – Ms. Shivani Wagh, Joint Managing Director, Supriya Lifescience Ltd.

In recent years, the global pharmaceutical landscape has witnessed growing momentum toward self-reliance in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) manufacturing, particularly amid rising tariff pressures and disrupted global supply chains. India, with its robust pharma legacy, is well-positioned to lead this shift, but realising this potential requires a strategic and multi-pronged approach.

To begin with, strengthening local manufacturing is key. While India has already made significant strides in API production, scaling this further is essential to reduce dependence on imports. A strong and consistent manufacturing base will not only enhance supply chain resilience but also ensure long-term sustainability and cost efficiency.

The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s position in API manufacturing. This phase represents a significant opportunity for companies to align with the government’s vision of self-reliance. Companies that have proactively embraced the scheme are now well-positioned to gain early-mover advantage in this evolving ecosystem.

The government’s role in this transformation is crucial. Initiatives such as the PLI scheme are commendable steps toward incentivising domestic API manufacturing. However, support must go beyond financial incentives. Streamlining regulatory processes and ensuring faster approvals remain pressing needs. Regulatory delays can hinder production timelines and deter new entrants from the market. A simplified and responsive framework will give the industry the confidence and clarity it needs to grow.

Additionally, with the United States set to begin imposing tariffs on imported medicines from August 2025, India has a golden opportunity to step up and fill global supply gaps—especially for regulated markets.

Moreover, supportive policies that foster a conducive business environment can accelerate this journey. Whether it’s easing compliance burdens, ensuring access to affordable utilities, or enabling ease of doing business, policy support must be holistic and consistent across the board.

Innovation and R&D are other powerful levers that can shift the equation in India’s favour. Focused investments in research can reduce production costs, improve process efficiencies, and enable manufacturers to scale operations sustainably. When coupled with backwards integration, this can offer a significant competitive edge, ensuring cost advantages, stable raw material supply, and enhanced control over quality and timelines.

It’s also important to recognise that API manufacturing is capital-intensive and infrastructure heavy. Setting up and running facilities requires considerable investment and high-grade infrastructure, including uninterrupted power and water supplies, efficient waste management systems, and transportation networks. Here too, the government must step in to build and upgrade pharma-friendly infrastructure that supports large-scale, compliant, and sustainable manufacturing.

With a focused approach that encompasses stronger local manufacturing, supportive government policies, streamlined regulations, innovation-driven R&D, and infrastructure development, India is well-positioned to lead the global shift toward API self-reliance. Embracing these measures will not only strengthen India’s pharmaceutical ecosystem but also secure its position as a leading force in the global active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) market.

In a powerful testament to personal discipline and wellness, industrialist Anil D. Ambani ran a half marathon yesterday, completing 21 kilometers in an impressive 99 minutes and 6 seconds.

The run, undertaken on July 27, was dedicated to mental and physical health, reflecting Mr. Ambani’s long-standing commitment to holistic well-being.

After completing the run, Mr. Ambani shared a heartfelt message:
“I am grateful for the blessings of Lord Shiva and my mother, Kokilaben D. Ambani, and my father, the Late Shri Dhirubhai H. Ambani, for bringing me as a human being to do my karma and serve this great nation — Bharat. Jai Hind.”

Known for his consistent focus on fitness, Mr. Ambani continues to inspire with his disciplined lifestyle and passion for long-distance running. His accomplishment serves as a reminder that personal wellness is a journey worth pursuing, no matter the pace of life or business.

At a time when the conversation around mental resilience and physical health is more important than ever, Anil Ambani’s run offers both motivation and perspective.

In the ever-evolving world of architecture and interior design, the use of natural materials continues to remain a powerful symbol of authenticity and refinement. Among these, natural stone stands out for its durability, organic charm, and unmatched versatility. Antica Ceramica, a pioneer in the tile and surface solutions industry, proudly introduces its latest design innovation — StoneEtch, a sophisticated stone wall collection that seamlessly merges state-of-the-art CNC technology with the timeless appeal of natural stone.

StoneEtch reimagines how stone is used in contemporary spaces, taking a giant leap forward in decorative surfaces. Crafted using high-precision CNC (Computer Numerical Control) engraving techniques, the collection transforms raw stone into works of art — with intricate detailing, sculptural textures, and artistic motifs rendered flawlessly across every slab. From symmetrical patterns and modern geometric lines to organic textures inspired by nature, StoneEtch panels bring a tactile and visual richness that elevates any space.

“At Antica Ceramica, we’ve always believed in the beauty of materials and the power of innovation,” says Mr. Rahul Bhugra, Director of Antica Ceramica. “With StoneEtch, we’re giving designers and architects an unprecedented opportunity to transform natural stone into a storytelling medium — an artistic expression rooted in precision, sustainability, and sophistication.”

A defining strength of the StoneEtch collection lies in its limitless customizability. With CNC-enabled technology, designers can translate virtually any creative concept into the surface of stone. Whether the brief calls for minimalist elegance, contemporary boldness, or traditional grandeur, StoneEtch offers the freedom to create bespoke walls that align seamlessly with the desired aesthetic of residential, commercial, or hospitality spaces.

Versatile in application, StoneEtch is designed for both indoor and outdoor environments. Within interiors, the stone panels serve as striking feature walls in living rooms, bedrooms, luxury bathrooms, and lobbies — adding depth and drama to otherwise flat surfaces. Outdoors, they adorn façades, garden walls, patios, and entryways with enduring elegance. The natural resilience of stone, paired with CNC craftsmanship, ensures that these installations are as durable as they are beautiful, retaining their character over time even in high-traffic or exposed areas.

StoneEtch also speaks to the increasing importance of sustainability in design. As Mr. Bhugra highlights, “Natural stone is a renewable material, harvested responsibly and with minimal processing. The long life cycle of stone reduces the need for replacements, making StoneEtch not just a beautiful choice, but also an environmentally responsible one.” The collection aligns with the growing demand for high-performance, sustainable materials in contemporary architecture and interiors.

With the launch of StoneEtch, Antica Ceramica reinforces its reputation as a forward-thinking brand committed to innovation, craftsmanship, and environmental consciousness. For over three decades, the company has helped shape India’s design landscape, offering a broad and curated portfolio of surfaces that balance aesthetic vision with technical excellence.

StoneEtch marks the next chapter in this journey — a celebration of the meeting point between natural beauty and digital precision. Whether featured in high-end homes, boutique hotels, designer offices, or curated public spaces, StoneEtch leaves a lasting impression, elevating surfaces into sculptural statements of style.

HYSEA and 3AI set to host GCCX…Hyderabad

Poster unveiled by IT Minister, Shri Sridhar Babu Duddilla

Hyderabad, India – The Hon’ble Minister for IT, Industries & Commerce, Government of Telangana, Shri D. Sridhar Babu, unveiled the poster for GCCX…Hyderabad 2025, a landmark summit co-hosted by HYSEA and 3AI, scheduled for Friday, August 1st at The Westin, Mindspace, Hyderabad.

“GCCX…Hyderabad: Reimagining the New Next in GCCs with AI,” this first-of-its-kind summit will spotlight the rapid rise of Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in Telangana and celebrate innovation and leadership excellence in the AI era.

Speaking at the launch, the Hon’ble Minister Shri D Sridhar Babu remarked: “Telangana has rapidly emerged as India’s fastest-growing GCC hub, now home to 355+ Global Capability Centers, with 70 established in the past year alone. Together, they employ over 3 lakh skilled professionals. The time has come to move beyond service delivery, towards value creation and innovation, as Hyderabad continues to strengthen its position as a strategic global tech hub. I congratulate HYSEA and 3AI for curating this important summit and look forward to engaging with leaders at GCCX… Hyderabad.”

The GCCX… Hyderabad Summit will bring together over 500 senior professionals, including 200+ GCC leaders, MDs, CXOs, and experts in AI, analytics, and technology.

The summit will feature 60+ speakers across curated sessions focused on key themes such as Generative AI, Agentic AI, future-ready operating models, talent and leadership development, and innovation through ecosystem collaboration.

Thanking the Hon’ble IT Minister, Prashanth Nandella, President, HYSEA, said: “GCCX… Hyderabad brings together leading minds from technology companies, GCCs, AI startups, academia, and government to exchange ideas, forge meaningful connections, and shape future-ready organizations. It serves as a dynamic platform to accelerate AI-led innovation and talent transformation. A must-attend for leaders driving change.”

The Hon’ble IT Minister is cordially invited to join the Leaders Exclusive Evening at the summit and interact with conference speakers, accomplished CXOs and felicitate key contributors to Hyderabad’s GCC growth. He will be accompanied by Mr. Sanjay Kumar, IAS, Special Chief Secretary ITE&C, Industries & Commerce. This exclusive evening is presented by GRAVA, a My Home Group company.

The prestigious GCC-ONE Awards will be presented to the winners by Mr. Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Special Chief Secretary, CEO, SPEED and Industry & Investment Cell.

Participants will gain valuable insights through a variety of formats – keynotes and spotlight talks by industry leaders, solution showcases from top tech platforms tailored for GCCs, roundtable discussions, rapid masterclasses in the Transformation Zone, and live demos, best practices, and startup pitches in the Innovation Zone.

Sameer Dhanrajani, President of 3AI, thanked partners and sponsors: “The HYSEA–3AI collaboration offers unparalleled visibility for brands engaging with India’s fastest-growing GCC landscape. We’re grateful to Cognizant, McDonald’s, ProHance, Evernorth, PwC, Ascent Health, AuthBridge, Metlife, GRAVA, T-Hub, IIITH-CIE and others for recognizing the strategic value of this summit.”

Other notable speakers include:

• Lalit Ahuja, ANSR
• Rajesh Varrier, Cognizant
• Deshant Kaila, McDonald’s
• Prashanti Bodugam, Evernorth India
• Rajesh Kumar Ojha, PwC
• Ranga Pothula, Infor
• Jaideep Agarwal, Warner Bros.
• Sheenam Ohrie, Broadridge India
• Lalitha Indrakanti, Jaguar Land Rover TBSI
• Amit Kalra, SwissRe
• Dinesh Murugesan, DSM-fermenich
• Madhuri Duggirala, Google
• Sailaja Josyula, Cognizant
• Megha Chawla, Bain & Co.
• Rajesh Dhuddu, PwC
• Durga Prakash, McDonald’s
• PJ Narayanan, IIIT Hyderabad
• Ram Chandani, CBRE
• Kavikrut, T-Hub
• And many more…

29th July 2025, Jaipur: In a culture fixated on the next drop, Pleyne invites men to rediscover the quiet authority of repetition. The Jaipur-based menswear label—celebrated for its refined tailoring and mindful design—reframes repeated wear as a gesture of discernment, not compromise.

“Fast fashion taught us to chase the new,” says Chirag Sogani, one of the founding minds behind Pleyne. “We prefer to ask—what truly endures? When a garment is crafted with care, produced responsibly, and fits you effortlessly, it naturally becomes part of your rhythm.”

At Pleyne, every piece begins with a purpose. Clean, minimal lines outlast seasonal shifts. Fabrics are selected for their strength and feel. And final additions are carried out by artisans who value restraint over embellishment. Small-batch production ensures complete focus on craft, preserving the intention behind every stitch.

But repetition here is more than sustainability—it is a personal philosophy. The modern Indian man today navigates between cultural depth and global ease. His wardrobe must follow suit. Pleyne’s sharply tailored trousers, understated kurtas, and lightweight jackets move with him—seamlessly, from a morning review to an evening gathering. Each piece becomes a familiar companion, designed to align with identity rather than costume change.

Through repetition, Pleyne encourages a more deliberate pace—slowing down the fashion cycle in favor of emotional value. Fewer garments, made better, reduce waste and carbon impact, yes—but more importantly, they invite intimacy. A crease earned with time, a soft fade developed through wear—these details form a personal archive, impossible to replicate off a rack.

The brand’s experience studio in Jaipur reflects this philosophy. Visitors enter a calm, focused space where fabric, structure, and fit speak louder than seasonal themes. Stylists guide clients through subtle distinctions—how a collar shape frames the jawline, how a sleeve pitch adjusts posture, how minimal tones elevate presence without effort.

“Refinement,” Sogani explains, “is the confidence that comes from familiarity. When a jacket drapes just the way you expect, you show up fully—without questioning your reflection.”

In a marketplace cluttered with reinvention, Pleyne proposes a quieter form of expression: wearing yesterday’s favorite again, today, and tomorrow. The collection is an invitation to curate a smaller, smarter wardrobe—one that values depth over volume, and continuity over chaos.

Step into the Jaipur studio or explore the collection designed for those who believe style is less about keeping up, and more about showing up.

Ahmedabad, 29^th July 2025 – Stratefix Consulting, a management-consulting firm that develops and executes growth strategies for mid-sized businesses, has announced a sales consulting mandate with General Traders, a notebook manufacturer and wholesaler that has operated in Ahmedabad since 1954. The partnership aims to streamline sales functions and establish systems that support the business.

Stratefix Consulting will help General Traders implement a sales strategy that includes process development, role clarity, and performance review systems. The firm will design processes for each level of the sales function, support role-based responsibilities, and set up regular reviews. As General Traders moves to its next phase, Stratefix will create a sales roadmap with defined steps, clear reporting, and measurable outcomes. Stratefix works with companies across various sectors to build systems that support operations and improve team coordination.

Chirag Patel, Co-Founder of Stratefix Consulting, said, “We are working with General Traders to implement structured sales systems that align with their growth goals. The project involves setting up clear sales processes, aligning team roles, and creating performance-tracking systems. Over the years, General Traders has built its position in the notebook segment, and our role is to support this foundation with systematic practices that make day-to-day operations more efficient. These systems are designed to be simple to manage and consistent across departments, helping the team make timely decisions and stay aligned with business goals.”

As part of the engagement, Stratefix Consulting will conduct a detailed review of existing sales operations, identify areas for improvement, and design processes that support team coordination and customer response. The scope also includes the development of reporting systems, sales dashboards, and tools to measure team performance and market activity. These systems will be customised to fit the company’s current structure and future growth plans.

Manan Modi, Partner at General Traders commented, “We have been in the notebook business for over seventy years. Our focus has always been on delivering the right products on time and maintaining relationships with our buyers. As we look at new markets and larger volumes, we see value in structured sales practices that help our teams work in an organised way. Partnering with Stratefix Consulting will help us strengthen our internal processes while keeping the agility the market requires. This step is part of our plan to build for the long term. As part of our future vision, we also plan to create a new firm as a startup to launch an innovative brand and product range.”

Stratefix Consulting will support General Traders by reviewing the current sales setup, mapping processes, creating dashboards, and implementing tools for order tracking, lead conversion, and market performance. The project includes sessions to help the internal team manage systems independently and will be carried out in phases. They work with companies across sectors like manufacturing, engineering, FMCG, chemicals, and distribution, and have completed over 750 projects for more than 450 companies in India. It will apply the same method to help General Traders build a structured and scalable sales function.

This collaboration reflects General Traders’ focus on strengthening internal processes and aligning operations with long-term business plans through structured sales practices.

Bengaluru (INDIA) / London (UK), July 29, 2025: Helios Climate (“HC”), Africa’s premier climate-focused investment platform, in partnership with the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), today announced a landmark investment in SUN Mobility, a global leader in energy infrastructure and battery swapping solutions for electric vehicles.

The investment round brings the total capital raised by the company over the past year to approximately $135 million. This significant capital infusion will drive the launch of Africa’s largest battery swapping network and continue to fuel SUN Mobility’s domestic growth.

Founded in 2017 by the SUN Group and the Maini Group, SUN Mobility operates over 900 battery swapping stations and powers a fleet of over 50,000 vehicles. Its globally interoperable, open-architecture battery technology, developed and manufactured in India, services two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, and heavy electric vehicles (HEVs) across multiple global OEM partners.

SUN Mobility’s strategic investors include IOCL, Vitol (parent of Vivo Energy, Africa’s largest fuel retailer), and Bosch.

Tavraj Banga, Partner & Co-Head, Helios Climate, commented:
“SUN Mobility is a global category leader with a differentiated and proven solution for the e-mobility space. Their platform’s interoperability spans multiple OEMs and vehicle types, allowing electrification at scale. Coupled with the economic and decarbonization benefits, it is an ideal solution for emerging markets. We’re proud to support their entry into Africa and work alongside their key partners to deliver scalable, affordable, and climate-resilient mobility solutions on the continent. We look forward to working alongside the company and its shareholders, including Vitol, Indian Oil and Bosch, to realize this potential.”

Chetan Maini, Co-Founder & Chairman, SUN Mobility, commented:
“We’ve built a modular, fast, and scalable battery swapping ecosystem that adapts to real-world mobility needs. With over 1.4 million monthly swaps in India and growing global interest, we’re excited to extend our proven model to emerging markets like Africa. The region’s rapid urbanization, reliance on two and three-wheelers, and need for robust HEV solutions position it perfectly to leapfrog into clean mobility.”

SUN Mobility’s platform decouples battery ownership from the vehicle, significantly reducing upfront EV costs and enhancing affordability. Its solutions address critical pain points for fleet operators and governments seeking to avoid emissions and reduce air pollution at scale. Africa’s two- and three-wheelers account for ~5% of the continents’ CO2 emissions today, and the market is expected to exceed 1.9 million vehicles annually by 2030, signaling a timely opportunity for clean, cost-effective electrification.

Through this investment, SUN Mobility will support the growth of the e-mobility supply chain in Africa and South-East Asia (batteries and quick interchange stations) and is expected to facilitate the avoidance of emissions while reducing air pollution through EV adoption.

Bengaluru, India, 29 July 2025: Amazon has launched the third-generation Echo Show 5 smart display with Alexa in India. It features a new design including a compact 5.5” smart display and a built-in camera that allows for easy home monitoring and smart home controls with Alexa. With double the bass and clearer vocals compared to its previous generation, this is the best-sounding Echo Show 5. Combining functionality with entertainment, it helps customers manage their compatible smart home appliances, including security cameras and video doorbells, glance at to-do lists and calendars, and play music hands-free—all with the power of Alexa.

The all-new Echo Show 5 (3^rd Gen) is now available in Charcoal and Cloud Blue colours at a discounted price of INR 10,999. Customers can get it on Amazon.in, Flipkart, and select offline stores of Reliance Digital and Croma.

“We’re excited to launch the new Echo Show 5 that’s been designed to make everyday moments more helpful with Alexa. With this smart display, we’re creating meaningful possibilities for our customers—from checking in on their home remotely using the built-in camera, and managing their smart home, to accessing visual content like recipes and calendars, and enjoying hands-free music with simple voice commands. It reflects our commitment to offering smart experiences that fit seamlessly into our customers’ daily lives. We look forward to Echo Show 5 becoming a smart companion for households across India,” said Dilip R.S., Director and Country Manager, Amazon Devices India.

See and do more with Echo Show 5’s smart display

Echo Show 5 (3^rd Gen) features a new and compact design with a 5.5” display. The device’s build now features rounded edges, and its display includes an infinity cover glass. Its improved user interface provides a comfortable viewing experience even at night. The display helps customers quickly glance at weather updates, manage smart home controls from the screen, or watch compatible security camera video feeds.

Echo Show 5 (3^rd Gen)’s smart display, combined with its improved sound, makes it an ideal entertainment hub for the bedroom, living room, or study. Customers can unwind with their favourite movies and TV shows from Amazon Prime Video (subscription fees may apply), follow along to workout videos or watch music videos using the browser.

Check in on your home and loved ones

With the built-in camera on Echo Show 5 (3^rd Gen) customers can monitor their homes when they’re away using the ‘Drop In’ feature. They can pair compatible security cameras and video doorbells with their device to view video feeds on the screen. The camera also enables video calls with friends and family who have Echo devices with screens, or the Alexa app. Customers can send messages or connect to other Echo devices within the home for quick announcements—ideal for larger households with multiple Echo devices.

Enjoy the best sound of any Echo Show 5

Echo Show 5 (3^rd Gen)’s upgraded speaker system delivers the best sound of any Echo Show 5. Its 1.7” rear-facing speaker provides double the bass and clearer vocals compared to the previous generation, making listening to music, podcasts, and audiobooks more enjoyable. With Alexa’s help, customers can just use their voice to request for a song, artist, or genre through Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify or JioSaavn, or jump right into their audiobook from Audible (separate subscription fees may apply). With multi-room music, customers can fill their home with music using other Echo devices in different rooms by creating custom groups (for example, “upstairs”).

Make everyday tasks smart and simple

Echo Show 5 (3^rd Gen) comes with hands-free voice controls via Alexa, allowing customers to stay on top of their tasks as they hustle through daily chores. They can ask Alexa to show the calendar, set timers or reminders, add items to to-do/shopping lists, and more. Controlling compatible smart home devices like smart lights, ACs, fans, security cameras, TVs, and geysers is made easy by simply asking Alexa or tapping on the device’s screen.

 The device is powered by the new, faster AZ2 Neural Edge processor and features an improved microphone array.

 Built with privacy in mind

Echo Show 5 (3^rd Gen) is built with multiple layers of privacy controls, including a built-in camera shutter, microphone on/off button, and the ability to view and delete voice recordings in the Alexa app. Visit the Alexa Privacy Hub to learn how Alexa and Echo devices are designed to protect privacy

New Delhi, July 29, 2025: iQOO, the high-performance smartphone brand, recently launched the iQOO Z10R 5G, which will go on sale starting today at 12 noon on the iQOO e-store and Amazon.in. The iQOO Z10R is designed for today’s aspiring content creators who demand flagship-level cameras, seamless multitasking, and a durable, stylish design.

The iQOO Z10R 5G will be available in two color variants — Aquamarine and Moonstone.

On the purchase of iQOO Z10R, customers can enjoy an instant discount with selected bank cards or an exchange bonus. No-cost EMI options are also available for up to 6 months.

Featuring the segment’s leading 32MP 4K selfie camera, the Z10R also includes a 50MP Sony IMX882 rear camera with OIS + EIS. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 5G chipset and built on an efficient 4nm TSMC process, the device achieves an impressive AnTuTu benchmark score of 7.5 Lakh+*. It also boasts a 6.77” Quad-Curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1800 nits peak brightness, and HDR10+ certification, delivering an immersive and fluid visual experience.

The iQOO Z10R offers blazing-fast performance, smooth app switching, and advanced AI capabilities. It comes with Underwater Mode and AI-based tools like AI Erase 2.0, Photo Enhance, and Studio AURA Light, enabling professional-level creation on the go. With up to 12GB + 12GB Extended RAM, it ensures seamless multitasking and gaming with Ultra Game Mode for optimized performance. The device is engineered for everyday durability, featuring IP68/IP69 protection, SGS Five-Star Drop Resistance, and MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability.

It is backed by a 5700mAh battery for all-day usage and supports 44W FlashCharge along with Bypass Charging to minimize heat during gaming or recording. Running on Funtouch OS 15 based on Android 15, the Z10R offers 2 years of OS updates and 3 years of security patches, making it ready for long-term use.

In line with iQOO’s commitment to ‘Make in India’, the Z10R will be manufactured at vivo’s Greater Noida facility. To enhance the post-purchase experience, iQOO customers can access services at any of the 670+ company-owned service centers across the country.

Mumbai/Bengaluru, 29^th July’25 – Venttup, a pioneering B2B manufacturing startup focused on driving indigenisation & new part development across industries has launched a whitepaper titled ‘Building India’s manufacturing momentum,’ at the Kerala Innovation Festival.

The whitepaper was launched by the Venttup team during the Kerala Innovation Festival in Kochi, in the presence of distinguished industry leaders, policymakers, professors, and mentors. The first copy of the whitepaper was ceremoniously handed over to esteemed guests, including Ms. Mamatha Venkatesh, Head of Start-up India; Dr. Lida Jacob IAS; Mr. Sridhar Radhakrishnan, Steering Committee Member of ASHA–Kisan Swaraj; Mr. Suresh Krishna, Co-Founder & CEO of the Yunus Foundation; Mr. Joseph Martin, CEO , Geojit–CUSAT Centre for Sustainability Studies; Mr. Jayaraman Chillayil, Managing Director of Equinoct; and Dr. Abhilash Sukumarapillai, Director of the Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research.

Venttup, founded by industry veterans with extensive experience at Hitachi Energy, Siemens Energy, L&T, and Kalpataru Power, Sandeep Nair (Co-Founder & CEO), M. Wasim Ankli (Co-Founder & COO), and Joseph Panakkal (Co-Founder & CMO), the white paper examines a substantive body of work, and has inputs from industry experts and founders in the manufacturing trenches to validate the findings.

Venttup is built on the principles of localization and sustainability. It assists large and medium enterprises in outsourcing their engineering needs by leveraging India’s manufacturing expertise to develop high-quality, locally sourced components—from prototype to mass production. Venttup offers localized production of critical engineering solutions and highly customized, complex mechanical, electrical, and electronic components across the Energy, EV, Aerospace, and Defense sectors, driving India’s manufacturing industry toward self-reliance and sustainable growth. The company is building a unified platform for global buyers to source high-quality, reliable, and sustainable components from India.

Commenting on the launch of white paper, Sanddep Nair, Co-founder & CEO, Venttup says, “India’s manufacturing ecosystem is dotted with millions of MSMEs who are the backbone of this sector. However, due to their lack of skills in end to end project management, cash flow limitations, R & D and lack of understanding the latest tech capabilities, the growth of this sector has remained slow. The govt has been rolling out pro manufacturing policies but there is an urgent need for the private sector to partner with the govt and other key stakeholders to build India into a global manufacturing hub across high growth industries. With this whitepaper, we have attempted to highlight the strength areas where India has the leverage, manpower and the know-how to grow into a strong manufacturing destination for global buyers and provided recommendations on how this shift can be accelerated with the help of technology.”

Bhaskar Majumdar, Managing Partner, Unicorn India Ventures, says, “We have been big believers in India’s talent and capabilities to transform itself into a manufacturing destination for the world. Our investments in Venttup and engineering driven startups is a testament to our strong belief in India’s emergence as a strong alternative to China in manufacturing. We strongly advocate that there is a need for developing manufacturing clusters within India as we take strategic steps to spotlight the prowess of India’s manufacturing landscape.

The key findings of the whitepaper include, emergence of MaaS companies, increasing preference of global aeronautical companies to establish manufacturing base in India and China + 1 strategy that is driving the smart manufacturing wave by integrating MSMEs into the ecosystem at a scalable level.

Manufacturing as a Service

The advent of cloud manufacturing or MaaS has the potential to bring global buyers to Indian MSMEs. Currently, MSMEs contribute 45% of the country’s exports. However, most of the MSME led manufacturing establishments employ minimal workforce and use obsolete machinery, they lack project management, lack of tech integration in workflows lead to losing out on valuable projects and limits MSMEs capabilities to focus on strategic issues. At times, capacity remains under-utilised leading to limited order pipeline. On the other hand, global buyers lack the expertise and network to source from the vast MSMEs. MaaS companies are filling this gap by becoming a much needed bridge between global buyers and Indian MSMEs.

India becoming an emerging hub for aircraft components

India is set to become a global hub for aircraft components manufacturing with a market size of $29.5 billion by 2033. Driven by govt initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, many SMEs are looking to invest in skilled manufacturing such as precision engineering, composite materials and semiconductors design and manufacturing. Global majors like Airbus and Boeing have announced partnerships with Mahindra and Tata to set up manufacturing operations in India. Indian PM Narendra Modi has presented a strong pitch to position India as a global hub for MRO with an aim to become a $4 billion MRO hub by 2030.

Conducive policy environment

India is taking all the right steps to accelerate the manufacturing sector’s growth. Pro manufacturing policies like PLI have played a role in incentivising domestic manufacturing and have made India an attractive destination for global manufacturing giants. This shift is also a part of the global de-risking strategy of China + 1 post the pandemic.

Recommendations

India is in the right place at the right time to build itself into a position of strength in manufacturing. Given the country’s prowess in tech led services and adoption of tech in every aspect, India with its demographic dividend has an edge in presenting itself as a hub for intelligent manufacturing, IoT, robotics, advances in AI and Quantum Computing. This will lead to India becoming a knowledge enabled manufacturing industry where innovation will be the key differentiator.

Supplier ecosystem and strategic manufacturing corridor: India must focus on building sector specific industrial clusters that support end to end manufacturing for high growth industries like Energy, EV, semiconductors and precision engineering. These clusters should encourage co-location of suppliers, logistics providers and manufacturers.

Workforce development: India must revamp its ITIs, modernising curriculum to align with current and future industry demands. Structured apprenticeship programs, PPP should be encouraged to establish CoE focused on critical skill development areas like robotics, CNC operations and smart manufacturing technologies.

Acceleration adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies : This can be achieved by offering targeted subsidies and tax incentives to encourage MSMEs to invest in automation, data analytics and digital tools. India also needs to strengthen its R&D ecosystem. Currently, India spends mere 0.7% of its GDP in R&D while China spends 2.4%. With the help of ongoing govt policy push, PPP, and adoption of smart manufacturing, this investment should grow for India to truly claim its global position of top tier manufacturing hub for the World.