Indian manufacturers embrace digital transformation amidst growth expectations
In India, sectors such as warehouse and fulfilment, RE and chemicals are experiencing a significant acceleration in digital transformation
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New Delhi: Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK) has released its 9th annual "State of Smart Manufacturing Report," based on a survey of over 1,500 manufacturers in 17 countries, including India. The report reveals a focus on utilizing new technologies for resilience, quality improvement, workforce optimization, and sustainable growth.
In India, sectors such as warehouse and fulfilment, renewable energy, and chemicals are experiencing a significant acceleration in digital transformation. A notable 91% of Indian manufacturers acknowledge the necessity of digitization. This is driven by factors such as the balance between quality and growth, integration of new technologies, skilled labour shortages, and the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Indian manufacturers are actively enhancing their network infrastructure and utilizing connected hardware devices. Networking hardware (88% adoption) and production monitoring software solutions (92% adoption) are leading in technology adoption across industries in India.
Dilip Sawhney, managing director of Rockwell Automation India, noted the transformative impact of new technologies like GenAI on global manufacturing. He emphasized the shift towards smart manufacturing globally and how Indian manufacturers are investing in smart manufacturing technologies to achieve growth, address workforce challenges, improve quality control, mitigate cyber risks, and achieve sustainability.
The report's key global findings include the recognition of AI as the top capability for driving business outcomes, with 83% of manufacturers planning to use generative AI (GenAI) in 2024. Additionally, 95% of manufacturers are currently using or evaluating smart manufacturing technology, up from 84% in 2023. This highlights the industry's readiness to embrace these advancements.
Manufacturers intend to maintain or grow their workforce due to smart manufacturing technology adoption, with a focus on repurposing workers and hiring more. However, change management remains a primary workforce-related obstacle for manufacturers in 2024.
The report underscores the vital role of emerging technologies in addressing multifaceted industry challenges, from accelerating digital transformation to enhancing quality control and cybersecurity resilience. Rockwell Automation reaffirms its commitment to supporting manufacturers with tools and insights to succeed in this era of transformation.
