‘Domestic pump manufacturers should be given fair opportunity’

Indian pump manufacturers feel that the government should give them a fair business opportunity based on manufacturing capabilities.

“Encouragement from the government is crucial. Incidentally, the domestic manufacturers are not treated on par with foreign players particularly in tendering processes. While foreign players are not asked about their Proven Track Record (PTR) while securing government projects, Indian companies are required to prove their capabilities by presenting their PTRs.

“The government needs to understand and encourage adoption of new technology that come with long term benefits rather than opt for projects based on low-cost criteria,” Sanjay Kirloskar, Chairman and Managing Director, Kirloskar Brothers has said, in a message to the participants at PU-MO-Con 2017.

This conference on pumps, motors and systems, which is underway at Hotel LeMeridien here. Urging the industry participants to innovate – both in terms of product as also in serving customers, he stressed the need for increased focus and spend on R&D capabilities and strive towards product excellence. He advised the pump manufacturers to refrain from unethical practices, rise in competition and race to outwit each other. Delivering the chief guest address, S Ravi, Managing Director, Craftsman Automation Private Limited urged the participants to keep pace with growth and adapt to changes, be nimble, flexible and fast.

“Alliances will be the key; sharing of technology by taking advantage of each other’s strength will be the future. Every industry will need to propel itself to the next level,” he added.

Industry sources voiced concern over the pump industry’s flat growth the last few years. “While the production has swelled to ₹10000 crore, exports have stagnated at ₹1500 crore,” said PU-Mo-Con 2017 Event Chair Jayakumar Ramdass.

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