The Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI) has called for greater investment in technology, automation, engineering, research and development and workforce skills as Indian companies seek to benefit from the changing global supply-chain landscape. The call was made at AIFI’s 2nd Annual Conference, held on the theme “New Development Trends – Impact on Forging Industry”. The conference brought together forging industry representatives, automotive companies and other stakeholders to examine the impact of global supply-chain changes and the growing China Plus One opportunity.
Participants said India has the manufacturing base, engineering talent and domestic market needed to increase its share of global forging business. At the same time, companies need to strengthen their ability to provide engineering and development support and take greater responsibility for customer programmes.
Thomas Dose, Managing Director, BMW Group Plant Chennai and Chief Guest at the conference, said global companies are reassessing supply chains because of geopolitical risks and dependence on individual suppliers. “We believe India should be the Plus One,” Mr Dose said. “India has engineering talent, a large market and a very capable forging industry.” He said global customers are looking for Indian suppliers that can participate in engineering and product development rather than only provide manufacturing and supply services.
Yash Munot, President, AIFI and CEO, Varsha Forgings Pvt Ltd, said the industry must prepare for geopolitical uncertainty, higher input costs, technology changes and evolving customer expectations. “The opportunity before the Indian forging industry is significant, but we must build the capabilities and competitiveness required to become a stronger and more valuable partner to global customers,” Mr Munot said.
A presentation by Yogesh Thakar, Executive Director, PwC, examined the potential for Indian forging companies to strengthen their global position. The conference also featured a panel discussion titled “Managing Uncertainty / Challenges to Capitalize on Demand Surge”.
SRavishankar, Vice President, AIFI and MD, Super Auto Forge Pvt Ltd, moderated the discussion. The panellists were Vidyashankar Krishnan, CMD, MM Forgings Ltd.; Vikas Bajaj, MD, Bajaj Motors Ltd.; and Sahil Jain, CEO, Hirschvogel Components India Private Limited.
The panel examined the industry’s preparedness for higher demand and discussed issues including GST, availability of skilled manpower, automation, technology upgrades, capital investment, training, R&D, productivity, contingency planning, demand management and rising input costs. The discussions highlighted the need for companies to make proactive investments rather than wait for demand to increase. Better technology, automation and workforce capabilities were identified as important factors in improving productivity and managing uncertainty.
The conference was attended by members of the AIFI Managing Committee, industry leaders and representatives from across the forging sector. Sunil Javalekar, Chairman, Western Region, AIFI and CEO, SB Forgetech Pvt Ltd, delivered the welcome address, while Ravishankar delivered the vote of thanks.
Established in 1965, AIFI has played a central role in representing and advancing the interests of India’s forging industry. The association continues to facilitate dialogue between industry participants, policymakers and customers while promoting innovation and capability development across the sector.
