Industry 4.0 implementation: evidence from Indian industries

Abstract

The emergence of “Industry 4.0” signifies a new industrial era, where various technologies converge to provide digital solutions. Industry 4.0 (I4.0), encompasses a range of digital technologies that profoundly impact manufacturing businesses. However, there is limited knowledge regarding how businesses utilize these technologies. This paper addresses the pillars of Industry 4.0, a crucial part of the next industrial revolution for Indian manufacturing industries aiming to become competitive smart factories in the global market. A survey of 73 Indian industries assessed their current technologies. Implementation criteria for Industry 4.0 in Indian industries were established based on the survey results. The findings reveal that customer satisfaction and quality are top priorities for Indian industries. While most industries have implemented Industry 3.0 practices, awareness and adoption of I4.0 still pose challenges, particularly for SMEs. This report analyzes the technological status of Indian industries, identifies the gap, and provides a roadmap for adopting Industry 4.0. Bridging this knowledge gap and embracing Industry 4.0 can enhance competitiveness, drive innovation, and meet the evolving demands of the global market. The transition to smart factories powered by Industry 4.0 unlocks new opportunities for India’s industrial sector, propelling it towards a prosperous future.