bauma CONEXPO INDIA: Advancing India’s Infra Construction Sector

Looking ahead to the next few years, particularly with the ambitious goal of Viksit Bharat 2047, the urgency of infra development will see mechanization grow, labor costs rise, and safety concerns become more prominent. Product specifications will evolve to become more productive, fuel-efficient, and sustainable. Implementation of Stage 5 emission norms in 2025 and the Omnibus Technical Regulation are steps forward in addressing safety and emission concerns.
Dimitrov Krishnan - Chairman, bauma CONEXPO INDIA

How do you see the level of mechanization in India’s construction equipment industry?

When we look at the Indian construction equipment industry and compare the products we use in India to those in many developed countries, there is a significant gap. So, there is a huge scope for mechanization and in increasing the variety of products being offered in India. However, if we reflect on the progress made over the past few years and compare it to the current level of mechanization, it is clear that we have advanced appreciably.

We are seeing that the small mini excavators and small tandem machines are seeing good growth, and aerial work platforms for high-reach locations are becoming more commonly used. This reflects a positive shift in product application in the construction industry. As projects need to be completed within tighter schedules, newer and more advanced machinery are being introduced to meet the growing demand for shorter project timelines, and even the larger, more productive machines are seeing increased usage as they offer higher levels of mechanization.

What new product developments do you see emerging in India’s construction equipment industry?

Looking ahead to the next few years, particularly with the ambitious goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 set by the government under PM Modi’s leadership, the urgency of infrastructure development is clear. Mechanization will continue to grow, labor costs will rise as the country develops, and safety concerns will become more prominent as the value of human life gains higher importance.

Product specifications are also evolving to become safer, more productive, fuel-efficient, and sustainable. For example, the industry will see the implementation of Stage 5 emission norms and updated safety regulations in 2025. The recently introduced Omnibus Technical Regulation, which focuses on mechanical and electrical safety requirements for equipment, is a step forward in addressing safety and emission concerns.

These regulatory trends clearly indicate a heightened emphasis on safety and environmental sustainability. Consequently, we can expect more mechanization, adoption of higher safety standards, R&D, and innovations in products. The Indian construction equipment industry is growing and throwing up numerous opportunities for businesses in this industry to grow in the years to come.

How can exhibitions like bauma CONEXPO INDIA foster a better understanding of advanced equipment, new technologies, and sustainable cons- truction practices amongst the users?

bauma CONEXPO INDIA is a platform that brings together various stakeholders in the infra construction sector. It offers an opportunity for the those involved in this sector, particularly the central government and its many ministries that are driving infrastructure activities, to witness first-hand the latest developments and innovations in the construction sector.

The trade event holds educative and insightful discussions amongst industry experts on topics such as technology, financing, mechanization, while conferences allow for knowledge exchange and information sharing on the latest trends, products, construction techniques, etc. This meeting of minds can result in the emergence of new trends. In this way, platforms like bauma CONEXPO INDIA can help drive industry growth and bring the ecosystem together.

What makes bauma CONEXPO INDIA a must visit event for equipment buyers, and how does it add value to their business decisions?

The exhibition is a melting pot for all the stakeholders in the construction sector, including equipment manufacturers, dealers, end-users, buyers, government bodies, and other industry influencers.

The exhibition, which has been running for close to a decade, plays a significant role in advancing the construction industry, by introducing new technologies, as a launchpad for new products, and for throwing up new business ideas and opportunities for collaborations. Visitors come here to discover what’s new and explore ways to work more efficiently.

For instance, in the 2023 edition of the event, Volvo introduced its first electric machines, marking the beginning of electrification in the industry. We also introduced our new Equipment-as-a-Service business model, which is gaining traction in the market. Several other brands have since followed suit by introducing their own innovative products and technologies at the trade show.

In today’s competitive market, especially in a dynamic environment like India, contractors face immense pressure to meet tight timelines and control costs. They visit such trade events to learn about new technologies, new working methods, and know about market trends and regional developments. They use the opportunity to learn, adapt, and improve by imbibing practices that are practical and useful for the long term.

How is bauma CONEXPO INDIA advancing the CE industry of India?

Platforms like bauma CONEXPO give manufacturers a common space to launch new technologies, innovative solutions, or upgraded machines – serving as a hub for progress and innovation. New government regulations can also influence product design and pricing. For example, 2025 will see the launch of Stage 5 compliant compactors, loaders, motor graders, and other road-operating machinery.

Customers, who may not have seen these upgraded machines before, will have the opportunity to check them out firsthand, understand the differences between various models, evaluate their features, and learn how to implement them effectively in their businesses. Thus, such events allow customers to see the changes, and they also get insights into market trends, helping them prepare for future quotations and tenders.

How do the panel discussions and conferences held at the trade event address issues regarding sustainable construction, digitalization in equipment, and skill development of the workforce?

The panel discussions and conferences held at the bauma CONEXPO cover subjects such as financial matters, technologies, sustainability in construction, skilling and upskilling the workforce, etc. These discussions lead to new learnings, exchange of ideas, and influence future practices.

Many manufacturers invite their academic partners—whether for ongoing research collaborations or recruitment purposes. Students and researchers get the opportunity to learn about emerging trends in the industry, which contributes to skill development.

The Indian Equipment Skill Council is an active participant at bauma CONEXPO INDIA. In the previous edition, a training program was conducted for trainers from various OEMs to upgrade their knowledge and skills in the latest technologies. This year, the Council is introducing an initiative aimed at further enhancing skilling in the country.

How can exhibitions like this help in building confidence among small and medium enterprises to adopt advanced technologies?

This exhibition is not limited to manufacturers; it also features participation from users, such as rental companies and contractors, who often set up their own stalls. They engage deeply in discussions about new technologies, their practical applications, and associated costs. Many of these conversations take place between potential partners, fostering collaboration and industry insights.

In my view, this platform offers immense value, providing opportunities not just for showcasing products but also for meaningful engagements such as amongst individuals and stakeholders; amongst industry bodies ICEMA and IESC and industry professionals; and amongst companies offering digitalization and OEMs and component manufacturers. There are Buyer-Seller meetings during which they discuss current and future requirements such as advanced technologies and how they can be utilized, and their impact during application. So, overall, this exhibition is an excellent opportunity for the all-around development of the infra construction industry.

What message would you like to convey to the attendees, exhibitors and stakeholders participating in bauma CONEXPO INDIA 2024?

I would like to say that bauma CONEXPO INDIA has established a strong presence in the Indian construction equipment ecosystem. It serves as a vital platform for showcasing the latest technologies, fostering engagement among multiple stakeholders, and amplifying the industry's voice across various spheres—be it the government, general media, or within the industry itself.

I encourage all the stakeholders to participate actively, maintain high attendance, and promote meaningful engagement. Let us bring positivity through active involvement, leveraging this platform not only for individual benefits but also for the greater good of the entire infra construction sector, and the resultant benefit to the country’s infra development and economic progress.