
We are committed to leveraging this momentum and showcasing Indian manufacturing excellence to an even broader global audience.

SCHWING STETTER INDIA, firmly embodies the principle of ‘Make in India and Sell Globally.’ The company’s India facility not only caters to domestic needs but also supplies equipment to 55+ countries worldwide. In an exclusive interview to CONSTRUCTION OPPORTUNITIES, V. G. SAKTHIKUMAR, CMD, SCHWING STETTER INDIA, gives an over view on the Make in India initiative, his company’s game changing technologies and a lot more.
We recently celebrated the successful completion of a decade of the ‘Make In India’ movement. How, according to you, has the “Make in India” initiative impacted the growth of the construction equipment industry in India?
The “Make in India” initiative has been transformative for the construction equipment sector. It has fostered a robust manufacturing ecosystem, driven self-reliance, and made India a hub for world-class construction equipment. At SCHWING Stetter India, this initiative has enabled us to expand our production capacity, adopt advanced technologies, and contribute significantly to infrastructure development across the country. It has also given us a competitive edge in the global market, making Indian-made equipment synonymous with quality and innovation.
Are there any key challenges faced by the construction equipment sector under the “Make in India” initiative? How did you overcome them?
One of the significant challenges was streamlining the supply chain and ensuring the availability of high-quality components locally. Another was addressing the skills gap in the workforce. At SCHWING, we tackled these challenges by investing heavily in supplier development programs, creating a skilled talent pool through training initiatives, and embracing digital technologies to enhance efficiency. Collaborative efforts with government bodies and industry stakeholders have also been instrumental in overcoming these hurdles.
How does the “Make in India” initiative aim to boost innovation and technology in the construction equipment sector? Do you practice ‘Make in India and Sell Globally,’ using your India manufacturing base to supply to the global market? Can you detail game-changing technology/products developed by your company?
The initiative places innovation and technology at its core, encouraging companies like ours to innovate relentlessly. At SCHWING, we firmly embody the principle of ‘Make in India and Sell Globally.’ Our India facility not only caters to domestic needs but also supplies equipment to 55+ countries worldwide. Products like the SLM 4000 self-loading mixer and our high-rise concrete pumps are prime examples of technology-driven innovations that have set benchmarks in the industry, making construction projects faster, safer, and more efficient.
Has your company adopted Industry 4.0 in your manufacturing operations? What benefits have you reaped by adopting Industry 4.0?
Absolutely, Industry 4.0 is integral to our operations. By leveraging IoT, AI, and automation, we have streamlined production, reduced downtime, and enhanced product quality. Predictive maintenance ensures minimal disruptions, while real-time data analytics aids in informed decision-making. These advancements not only optimize costs but also enhance customer satisfaction by delivering superior products on time.
What role does foreign investment play in the success of the “Make in India” initiative for construction equipment?
Foreign investments bring in advanced technology, expertise, and capital, which are vital for scaling operations and achieving global competitiveness. SCHWING has benefitted significantly from being part of a global network, enabling us to localize cutting-edge technology and drive innovation while meeting international standards. This has reinforced India’s position as a preferred manufacturing hub for construction equipment.
How has the “Make in India” initiative influenced the export potential of Indian-made construction equipment? Have we been able to fully capture our manufacturing potential and showcase it to the world?
The initiative has significantly boosted India’s export potential. At SCHWING, our export revenues have seen consistent growth, thanks to the trust in Indian engineering and quality. While we have made substantial progress, there’s still untapped potential. We are committed to leveraging this momentum and showcasing Indian manufacturing excellence to an even broader global audience.
How has the “Make in India” initiative contributed to job creation in the construction equipment sector?
The initiative has catalyzed massive job creation, both directly and indirectly. At SCHWING, our manufacturing units, supplier networks, and service teams have collectively contributed to significant employment opportunities. Additionally, skill enhancement programs have further empowered the workforce, ensuring they are equipped for evolving industry demands.
What measures have been taken to enhance skill development in the construction equipment sector under the “Make in India” initiative? What more needs to be done to bring skills at par with global standards?
Skill development has been a key focus area. We have established training centers and collaborated with industry bodies to upskill operators and technicians. Our operator training programs enabled with state government MoUs are an example of our commitment.
How does the “Make in India” initiative address the environmental concerns related to the construction equipment industry? How are you addressing sustainability in your operations and equipment?
The initiative encourages sustainable practices, aligning with global trends. At SCHWING, we’ve prioritized green manufacturing by adopting energy-efficient processes and reducing waste. Our products, such as concrete recycling plants and sludge pumps, exemplify our commitment to sustainability by enabling environmentally responsible construction practices.
What are the future prospects for the construction equipment sector under the “Make in India” initiative?
The future is promising. With increased infrastructure spending and favorable policies, the construction equipment sector is poised for double-digit growth. We envision a landscape where Indian equipment not only supports domestic projects but also dominates the global market as the epitome of innovation and reliability.
Give us an understanding of your company’s performance this year and your outlook going forward.
2024 was a year of resilience and consolidation, with steady single-digit growth due to global uncertainties, including elections worldwide. However, the momentum is picking up, and we anticipate double-digit growth in 2025. With our robust product lineup, expanded export footprint, and unwavering focus on innovation, SCHWING is well-positioned for a successful year ahead.