Manufacturing in India

Students visited two manufacturing plants to learn about the manufacturing industry in India.

During our last few days in India we visited two manufacturing plants in the Chennai region on the south east coast of India; the Daimler Benz automotive plant and AIS Asahi India Glass Ltd. The visits proved yet again that India straddles the line between a society possessing undeniable poverty and one possessing world class innovation and technology.

The first thing that stands out in the manufacturing sector is the scale of the companies that operate there. Dozens of factories employing tens of thousands of staff produce goods that are almost entirely consumed locally. With that context it is clear there is room for significant development and growth in the manufacturing sector. The two manufacturing plants we visited are both involved in the automotive industry with Chennai claiming the title of the new Detroit for the automobile industry.

We were privileged to visit the Daimler Benz plant where they produce the impressive BharatBenz truck and bus range. The plant was purpose built between 2009 – 2011 and they now produce 30,000 units per year and can increase to 70,000. Key highlights were a world class presentation on global market analysis, learning about lean production methods, and the test track.

Our second visit was to AIS Asahi India Glass Ltd.

What a mind-blowing plant this was! AIS has an unquestionable commitment to maintaining quality standards to their glass designs and developments.

Founded in 1986, AIS is India’s leading glass solution company dominating architectural and automotive markets. It commands over 70% of market share and has received awards recognising their outstanding Total Quality Management principles.

Both visits showcased world class manufacturing design, processes, execution and standards. The passion displayed by the staff involved was evident. There was clear ambition, superior innovation and skill throughout both organisations. The visit truly proved India is a land of contrasts.