Tech for growth

Indian MSMEs need affordable digital tools, cloud solutions, and workforce training to close tech gaps, enhance efficiency, and remain competitive in manufacturing.

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Technology adoption has become essential for manufacturers to survive and grow. A CII-KPMG survey of 1,500 firms revealed that although intent is strong, nearly 30% of “digital champions” remain stuck at the pilot stage, reflecting the gap between vision and execution. For India’s six crore MSMEs, contributing nearly 30% of GDP, the challenge is sharper, as 97% are micro-enterprises lacking clarity on where to begin, invest, or build skills. Yet, global adopters report 10–25% productivity gains, energy savings, and improved service.

At the 13th Annual Manufacturing Today Conference, experts stressed small steps, skilling, and support as enablers. Industry leaders actively participated in the panel discussion, including Vinod Bhat, Chief Digital Officer, TATA AutoComp Systems Ltd; Laxman Mahale, Business Head, Mahindra Accelo; Ganesh Shinkre, CEO, Western India, SFO Technologies; Sanjay Mishra, Chief Digital & Information Officer, Jindal Stainless Ltd; Rohit Gupta, Director R&D, Nexteer Automotive; and Girikanth Avadhanula, Director Customer Advisory at SAP India. Sunil David, Digital Technology Consultant, moderated this discussion.

Sunil David opened the discussion by referring to two recent reports. The CII-KPMG survey of 1,500 large and medium manufacturers revealed that while many companies have strong intent, nearly 30 per cent of “digital champions” had not moved beyond pilot projects. A NITI.io report highlighted that MSMEs, which make up 97 per cent of India's six crore enterprises and contribute nearly 30 per cent of GDP, face challenges in getting started with technology, building skills, and finding partners.

The digital gaps