'Automation and IT have redefined the Manufacturing Ecosystem'

Ranchi:  In the inaugural session of the 6th International Conference on Automation and Information Technology (AITISM 19) held at the auditorium of RDCIS, SAIL the leading experts of Industry termed the frontier technologies of INDUSTRY 4.0  and Digitization as more of a mindset than a mere technology.

It demands a complete Galvanization of the workforce, Users, Customers, Suppliers and all stakeholders in the value chain for a metamorphosis of the mindset to reap the maximum benefits.

The technology is already playing its role amalgamating complex multidisciplinary business and control processes together either from the sensor to the board room level or from the raw materials to the finishing and subsequent delivery systems. It was evident in the deliberations that Automation and IT today have redefined the Manufacturing Ecosystem.

Recalling such a Paradigm Shift during his Japan visit in 90s, AN Jha, Member 15th Finance Commission and also the chief guest of inaugural session, quipped about the 'KAIZEN' ways of Toyota which had then taken the world by a storm in redefining Quality systems. This had given Toyota a cutting edge in automobiles, which it still enjoys presently since Technology and Mindsets moved in tandem there.

He elucidated that the Govt. also leveraged Digitization through the JAM (Jandhan - Aadhar - Mobile) for successful financial inclusion of more than 30 crore people and the Spin-offs of such Digital Drives were LPG Ujjwala, Power Connection to All, and Ayushman Bharat i.e. Medical Insurance for all. The MNREGA payments of Rs. 15000 Crores went directly to the labourers obviating any middlemen pilferage. 

The Keynote address was delivered by Jayanta Banerjee, Group CIO, TATA Steel where he stressed for Outcome-oriented thinking to ensure that Business owns and drives Industry 4.0 and Digitization, the Technology can be just an enabler. In his presentation he enthralled the audience by many innovative ways TATA Steel has brought SAFETY in steel manufacturing and significantly improved the operational efficiencies in terms of productivity, quality, energy efficiency etc. and in turn the financial bottom line leveraging INDUSTRY 4.0 and Digitization. He emphasized that a proper framework needs to be evolved encompassing the IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, use of distributed cloud and applications.

Mr. Bernhard Steenken, CEO of SMS Digital Germany in his address underscored the importance of INDUSTRY 4.0 and Digitization quoting the burning problems the global steel industry is facing due to overcapacity, fluctuating prices, environmental challenges etc. He also opined that Industry 4.0 gives a chance to revolutionize business and will become a part of the eco-system of the future and to enable this data is to be turned into value.