New Delhi, Sep 19 (KNN) India must rapidly embrace digitisation in its aerospace sector to become a global manufacturing hub, according to Banmali Agarwala, Chairman of Tata Advanced Systems (TAS).

Speaking at a symposium hosted by the Indian Foundation for Quality Management (IFQM), Agarwala said the industry must move beyond building prototypes and focus on large-scale production to compete internationally.

He pointed out that many aerospace companies in India still rely on outdated, paper-based designs even as platforms and components continue to evolve.

This lack of digital updates has created inefficiencies and slowed the pace of manufacturing. Agarwala emphasised that digitisation—from converting old drawings into digital formats to integrating advanced design and production tools—is crucial for speeding up manufacturing and strengthening the supply chain.

Another challenge he highlighted is India’s limited ability to absorb and build upon advanced technologies. While the country often imports or acquires new aerospace technologies from abroad, domestic firms typically only use them as they are.

Agarwala urged companies to enhance these technologies locally to reduce dependence on imports and build stronger indigenous capabilities.

According to him, combining digital transformation with greater technology absorption will help the Indian aerospace sector scale operations, improve efficiency, and position itself as a competitive global manufacturing hub.

He noted that these steps are essential if India wants to secure a leading role in the global aerospace and defence industry.

(KNN Bureau)