By Gulshan Khurana
India’s manufacturing sector stands at the cusp of transformation. Backed by robust government initiatives like Make in India, an uptick in exports, and renewed emphasis on indigenous production, the potential is undeniable. However, a persistent and growing concern continues to shadow this progress — the widening workforce and skills gap in manufacturing and engineering. At Roto Pumps Ltd., where we have been delivering innovative industrial pump solutions to global markets, we believe addressing this challenge is fundamental to the sector’s long-term competitiveness and sustainability.
The Reality of the Skills Gap
One of the most significant issues facing the industry today is the mismatch between the skills of graduating engineers and the practical demands of the manufacturing floor. Despite the large number of engineering graduates entering the job market each year, only a small percentage are truly job-ready. This disconnect arises from curricula that remain largely theoretical and outdated, often failing to impart practical skills such as hands-on experience with machining, automation systems, and real-time problem-solving.
Compounding this is the aging workforce in many legacy manufacturing companies — seasoned workers with decades of experience are retiring, creating a gap in institutional knowledge with few trained replacements stepping in.
Furthermore, rapid technological disruptions, especially with the rise of Industry 4.0, are altering job roles and skill expectations. Today’s workforce must possess cross-functional capabilities — mechanical engineers now need exposure to data analytics and digital tools, while technicians must understand robotics and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
Bridging the Gap: A Multi-Pronged Approach
To bridge this widening gap, a multi-pronged approach is essential. Here’s what we believe needs to be done:
1. Industry-Academia Collaboration
Firstly, deeper collaboration between industry and academia is the need of the hour. We must work hand-in-hand with educational institutions to co-develop curricula that reflect current and future industry needs. This includes integrating practical modules, encouraging industrial internships, and facilitating live projects that give students real-world exposure.
At Roto Pumps, we’ve built internal training programs where young hires are mentored by experienced professionals. These ‘internal skill incubators’ not only enhance technical proficiency but also instil a problem-solving mindset and a deep understanding of the operational ecosystem.
2. Embracing Technology for Training
Another critical area is the adoption of digital tools for workforce training. Technology-enabled learning platforms — including simulations, AR/VR-based safety drills, and virtual maintenance training — offer scalable and engaging ways to upskill employees. Even small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can benefit from these innovations, provided there is adequate government support and cross-industry collaboration. Policy support must also be stronger.
Government initiatives like Skill India and PMKVY are valuable, they need to be better integrated with regional industry clusters. Reforming the Apprentices Act to make it easier for companies to bring in and train young talent could be a game-changer.
3. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has immense potential in bridging the skills gap. AI-driven platforms can personalize training modules based on an individual’s current capabilities, learning pace, and job role. Predictive analytics can help identify skills that will be in demand in the near future, allowing both employees and employers to proactively prepare.
In manufacturing environments, AI-powered systems can guide technicians through complex repair and maintenance tasks in real time, serving as an intelligent assistant that continuously supports learning on the job. Over time, this integration of AI into training and operations not only enhances productivity but also reduces the dependency on extensive classroom-based instruction.
4. Developing Soft Skills and Safety Culture
While technical competency is vital but it is equally important to nurture soft skills — communication, teamwork, time management — and embed a strong safety culture across all levels. Safety is often overlooked but plays a pivotal. Embedding a strong culture of safety and accountability ensures long-term operational excellence and instils confidence at every level of the organization.
The Road Ahead
Bridging the skills gap in manufacturing is not a one-time project but a continuous effort that requires commitment from all stakeholders — government, industry, academia, and civil society.
At Roto Pumps, we remain committed to nurturing a future-ready workforce that can adapt, innovate, and lead. Manufacturing today is not just about machines and materials — it is about people, their capabilities, and their willingness to learn, evolve, and contribute.
As India moves towards becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse, it is our responsibility to invest in our people — their skills, their growth, and their future — is now.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of Mr. Gulshan Khurana, Chief Operating Officer, Roto Pumps Ltd. They are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the organization.
About the Author:
Mr. Gulshan Khurana is a seasoned techno-commercial professional with over 40 years of experience in the engineering and manufacturing industry. An MBA in Marketing, Mr. Khurana brings deep expertise in operations, strategic planning, manufacturing, supply chain, and sales, gained through extensive work in global environments.
About Roto Pumps Ltd:
Established in 1968, Roto Pumps Ltd is a public-listed company and a globally preferred brand in positive displacement pumps. Headquartered in India, the company exports to over 50 countries across five continents. With state-of-the-art manufacturing and R&D facilities, Roto Pumps aspires to be among the top five positive displacement pump manufacturers in the world.
Last Updated on: Friday, May 16, 2025 1:55 pm by Economic Edge Team | Published by: Guest Post on Friday, May 16, 2025 1:55 pm | News Categories: Opinion, Brand Post
About The Author
Leave a Reply