Indias Manufacturing Future In Question: Automations Double-Edged Sword

The Automation Conundrum: Balancing Progress with Pragmatism in India’s Manufacturing Landscape

Automation is often touted as the silver bullet that drives efficiency and productivity in manufacturing. However, a closer examination reveals that this is not the case for every company or industry. According to Hari Parthasarathi, global application engineering leader at 3M, “Automation isn’t for everyone. Sometimes, the process a customer is following is already solid, and they don’t need to spend heavily on robotics.”

India’s largest manufacturing conglomerate, with over three decades of presence in the country, 3M has seen firsthand the benefits of automation. The company’s abrasive robotics lab in Bengaluru, established last year, is not only its first in India but also the 17th globally. With an estimated market size of $15.2 billion by 2024 and expected to reach $29 billion by 2029, India’s industrial automation sector is poised for significant growth.

However, this growth comes with unique challenges. The country’s diverse manufacturing ecosystem presents a complex landscape that requires tailored solutions. “We want to flex our muscles in a few years and show that we are a much bigger manufacturing hub today than what we used to be,” Parthasarathi explained. To navigate this landscape, 3M adopts a collaborative approach, partnering with robotic arm manufacturers, compliance system providers, and customers to create automation systems that cater to specific industries and processes.

In the abrasives segment, for instance, the company has demonstrated a tenfold boost in productivity through automation. Yet, the team emphasizes the importance of assessing automation’s relevance on a case-by-case basis, focusing on addressing genuine needs rather than becoming a costly exercise. The adoption of automation is slower in India due to a lack of skilled manpower and high implementation costs.

Furthermore, many businesses are hesitant to invest in automation without a clear understanding of its long-term value. Therefore, 3M advocates for a gradual and strategic transition, ensuring that automation complements human skills rather than replacing them. Interestingly, the rise of humanoids in manufacturing facilities is no longer a distant dream. Companies like BMW and Amazon are already leveraging these robots to improve safety and efficiency.

While 3M has not ruled out the possibility of incorporating humanoids in its operations, Parthasarathi believes it’s unlikely in the immediate future. Instead, the company is focused on developing innovative solutions, such as its automated paint repair system for automotive original equipment manufacturers. As India continues to position itself as a global manufacturing hub, it’s essential to strike a balance between embracing technological advancements and prioritizing cost-effective, scalable solutions that cater to diverse industry needs.

By taking a pragmatic approach to automation, companies can reap the benefits of increased productivity while maintaining their unique strengths.