Transforming Indian Engineering Industries through Industry 4.0: An Integrative Conceptual Analysis

Abstract

The recent innovations in both industrialisation and informatisation technologies have culminated into a new generation of manufacturing paradigm. This manufacturing innovation promises mass customization due to flexibility in manufacturing, improved product quality and safety, new productivity levels, creation of smart products and services. Industry 4.0 is gradually making its presence felt in Indian Industries. Indian Engineering Industries being the largest segment in the Industry, holds immense potential if it embraces Industry 4.0. This research conceptually examines the effect of Industry 4.0 on Indian Engineering Industries on both the heavy and light engineering industries. ABCD framework is used to investigate the effect of Industry 4.0 in these Industries. The study finds that Indian engineering industry can be transformed to produce smart products and services, by the application of Industry 4.0. This is the first study to evaluate the effect of Industry 4.0 on Indian Engineering Industries. It also contributes to the theoretical need for evaluating the effects of Industry 4.0 in the developing world.