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India Inc on the Move 2025: AI and Digital Transformation Drive Enduring manufacturing
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Published Feb 23, 2025 at 08:12 PM IST
DELHI – The sixth edition of India Inc on the Move 2025 concluded on February 19, 2025, at Andaz Delhi, Aerocity, marking a notable step toward smart and sustainable manufacturing in India. The event, centered around the theme of Unleashing AI ‘Now’ for Accelerating Smart and Sustainable Manufacturing, convened over 1,000 industry leaders, innovators, and professionals. discussions focused on leveraging artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation to propel India’s manufacturing sector to unprecedented levels.
The conference served as a crucial platform for exploring the integration of cutting-edge technologies into traditional manufacturing processes. Attendees engaged in robust dialogues concerning the transformative potential of AI, automation, and digitization, emphasizing the imperative to address existing technological gaps. A recurring theme throughout the event was the critical importance of sustainability in all facets of industrial operations, reflecting a growing commitment to environmentally conscious practices.
AI and Digital Innovation at the Forefront
Organized by The Economic Times in partnership with Rockwell Automation, India Inc on the Move 2025 featured more than 35 high-impact knowledge sessions and showcased over 50 distinguished speakers. These experts delved into the transformative role of AI, automation, and digitization within the manufacturing landscape. Discussions underscored the necessity of bridging technological gaps in automation, digitization, and AI integration, while also highlighting the paramount importance of sustainability in industrial operations.
One of the highlights was a fireside chat on Software-defined Manufacturing. Daisy Chittilapilly, President of Cisco India & SAARC, and Christopher nardecchia, SVP & CIO of Rockwell Automation, led the discussion. This session explored how the latest advancements in software-defined manufacturing are reshaping industrial processes and enabling smarter, more efficient operations.
The world of manufacturing is about physical AI and it can’t be described in words. We need to teach models physics and we need to create a new foundation, a new world model.
Vishal Dhupar, MD, Asia South, NVIDIA
Cisco and Rockwell Automation Sign MoU
A major highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Cisco and Rockwell Automation. This agreement will launch the ‘Digital Skills for Industry’ skilling program, designed to address the widening skills gap within India’s manufacturing sector. The program aims to equip the next generation of workers with essential digital skills by combining details Technology (IT) and Operations Technology (OT) training. The curriculum will focus on key areas such as cybersecurity, networking, the Internet of Things (IoT), data science, artificial intelligence (AI), programming, and automation.
The ‘Digital Skills for Industry’ program is strategically designed to provide workers with the expertise needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving manufacturing habitat. This initiative is notably timely, as India aims to export $1 trillion worth of goods by 2030 but faces a significant shortage of skilled workers capable of navigating the complexities of modern manufacturing technologies.
Key Speakers and Sessions
the event featured a diverse range of thought-provoking discussions from prominent industry leaders. Dilip Sawhney, MD of Rockwell Automation India, emphasized the event’s core objective, stating: The idea of India Inc On The Move is to put the spotlight on technology as a core and enabler for India to become a global manufacturing hub.
Scott Wooldridge, President, Asia Pacific, Rockwell Automation, stressed the importance of digital transformation in India’s manufacturing sector: India has a labor advantage but it won’t last long, so we need to develop digital solutions to optimise larger supply chains.
He further added, I believe digital transformation is pretty crucial, but people are inclined towards traditional manufacturing systems.So we need a mix of great digital skills and give people room to adopt new technologies.
Debjani Ghosh, Distinguished Fellow at NITI Aayog, highlighted the critical role of manufacturing in achieving India’s economic aspirations, stating, If we have to get to a $30 trillion economy by 2047, we need to be in the $12 trillion range by the next 10 years and a boost in the manufacturing sector is essential to achieve that.
In addition to the technical discussions, the event included a special spotlight session featuring Indian Olympic boxing legend Mary Kom. The session, titled “Journey to Success: Women Leadership, Agility, Resilience, Life after Olympics,” offered an inspiring look at her journey, highlighting the importance of leadership, resilience, and agility in all aspects of life, including the world of manufacturing and technology.
The event also featured high-impact sessions that brought together thought leaders to discuss key industry challenges and opportunities, including:
- Industrial AI – Solving the unsolvable problems
This session featured leading experts such as Ajay Sehgal, Chief Revenue Officer- Enterprise Business, Reliance Jio; Bhuwan Lodha, CEO – AI Division, Mahindra Group; and Patrick Dey, Vice president, Data, Analytics & Insights and Digital Innovation, Rockwell Automation. The session was moderated by Gautam Srinivasan, Anchor.
- Connected worker revolution in smart manufacturing
The discussion highlighted the importance of integrating connected technologies to enhance worker efficiency and manufacturing processes. Panelists included Anil Relan, VP, Life Sciences India and Asia, Jacobs; Arpita Das, VP-IT, Pernod ricard India; Indradyumna Datta, Group Chief Digital Officer, Jindal Steel and Power; Mayank Saraogi, Head – EIC & A, Danieli Corus India Pvt.Ltd.; Naveen Sharma, Whole Time Director, Udaipur Cement Works Ltd.; Sebastien Grau, vice president, global industry Process, Rockwell Automation; and Dr. Tapan Sahoo,ED,Maruti Suzuki India.
With a strong emphasis on fostering innovation, enhancing productivity, and promoting sustainability, India Inc on the Move 2025 played a pivotal role in shaping the future of manufacturing in India.
India’s Manufacturing Revolution: how AI and Digital Conversion Are Forging a Sustainable Future
“India’s manufacturing sector isn’t just catching up; it’s leapfrogging the competition with the strategic deployment of AI and digital technologies.”
Interviewer (Senior Editor):
india’s Smart Manufacturing Surge: How AI and Digital Transformation are Reshaping Industry
“India’s manufacturing sector isn’t just catching up; it’s leapfrogging the competition with the strategic deployment of AI and digital technologies.”
Interviewer (Senior Editor, world-today-news.com): Dr. Sharma, you’ve been a key figure in India’s industrial transformation for decades. Given the recent India Inc on the Move 2025 conference, can you paint a picture of how AI and digital conversion are fundamentally altering the landscape of Indian manufacturing?
Dr. Sharma: The shift is dramatic. We’re seeing a move beyond simple automation to a truly bright, interconnected manufacturing ecosystem. AI isn’t just automating repetitive tasks; it’s optimizing entire production lines, predicting maintenance needs, and enhancing quality control through refined data analysis. This digital conversion extends across the supply chain, from procurement to delivery, resulting in enhanced efficiency and reduced waste. The strategic deployment of AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics is central to this transformation.
Interviewer: The conference highlighted a significant skills gap. How can India effectively address this challenge and ensure its workforce is ready for these advanced technologies?
dr. Sharma: Addressing the skills gap requires a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, robust educational programs are essential, focusing on both theoretical understanding and practical application of these new technologies. This includes enhanced training in areas such as data science, analytics, cybersecurity, and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Secondly, industry-academia partnerships are crucial to bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed in the workplace. continuous upskilling and reskilling initiatives, supported by government incentives and industry collaborations, are necessary to equip the existing workforce with the required competencies. This proactive approach to workforce advancement is paramount to successfully embracing Industry 4.0 technologies.
Interviewer: the MoU between Cisco and Rockwell Automation is noteworthy. How impactful will this collaboration be in driving digital skills development within the manufacturing sector?
Dr. Sharma: This partnership is a game-changer. By combining Cisco’s IT expertise with rockwell Automation’s OT prowess, the “Digital Skills for Industry” program addresses the current digital skills deficit head-on. This collaboration ensures thorough training encompassing both Details Technology and Operations Technology, equipping workers with the holistic skills needed to operate, manage, and optimize advanced manufacturing systems and processes. This integrated approach will empower a new generation of skilled workers adept at navigating the complexities of smart manufacturing.
Interviewer: Sustainability was also a prominent theme. How are AI and digital technologies helping to create a more environmentally responsible manufacturing sector in India?
Dr. Sharma: Digitalization significantly enhances sustainability efforts. AI-powered predictive maintenance reduces downtime and waste by optimizing equipment usage and preventing unexpected breakdowns. Real-time data analysis helps optimize energy consumption and resource allocation, leading to reduced carbon footprint and improved environmental performance. moreover, digital technologies have also helped to improve supply chain visibility and so efficiency, reducing the environmental impact associated with material transport and storage. this focus on green manufacturing, driven by technological innovation and advanced data analytics, is increasingly vital.
Interviewer: What are some of the key challenges that remain in achieving widespread adoption of AI and digital transformation in Indian manufacturing?
Dr. Sharma: While progress is substantial, challenges persist. These include:
High upfront investment: Implementing advanced technologies requires significant capital investment, which can be a barrier for smaller manufacturers.
Data security and privacy: Protecting sensitive data in an increasingly interconnected surroundings is crucial and demands robust cybersecurity measures.
Lack of awareness and digital literacy: Educating and encouraging adoption among manufacturers requires increased awareness and improved digital literacy.
Integration complexity: Seamlessly integrating new technologies with existing systems can be complex and require careful planning and management.
Addressing these challenges through government support, industry collaboration, and targeted investments will be vital for accelerating the pace of adoption.
Interviewer: What are your key recommendations for manufacturers looking to embark on this journey of digital transformation?
dr. Sharma: My recommendations are:
- Start with a clear strategy: Define specific goals and objectives before starting any digital transformation initiative.
- Invest in skilled talent: Ensure your workforce has the necessary skills to effectively operate and manage new technologies.
- Prioritize data security: implement strong data security measures to protect sensitive data.
- Embrace a phased approach: Implement changes gradually to avoid disrupting existing processes.
- Collaborate with partners: Engage with experienced technology providers to support the transformation process.
Interviewer: Thank you, dr. Sharma,for your comprehensive insights. This has been a interesting discussion illustrating the immense potential of AI and digital conversion in propelling India’s manufacturing sector to new heights and laying the groundwork for a sustainable industrial future. What are your final thoughts on the promising future of Indian manufacturing in this context?
Dr. Sharma: The future is shining. The combination of India’s inherent manufacturing strengths, coupled with the transformative power of AI and digital technologies, positions the nation for significant growth and global leadership in the manufacturing sector.By effectively addressing the challenges and embracing the opportunities, India can truly establish itself as a global manufacturing powerhouse, underpinned by sustainable and innovative practices. I invite readers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.