Rockwell Automation, a leading company focused on industrial automation and digital transformation, has released the 10th edition of its annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report.
As manufacturers face ongoing economic shifts and operational challenges, the report reveals a strong global pivot towards smart manufacturing technologies such as AI, data analytics, and cloud-based systems. In India, the momentum is particularly striking: 99% of respondents said they have already invested in, or plan to invest in, AI and machine learning (ML) within the next five years, while 94% have some form of formal sustainability programme in place.
Dilip Sawhney, Managing Director, Rockwell Automation India, said, “AI and ML technologies, once considered future trends, are now strategic imperatives. Indian manufacturers are not just embracing smart technologies—they’re leading in data utilisation and sustainability practices, showing agility in adapting to global shifts in manufacturing.”
India is outperforming the global average in data utilisation, effectively using 53% of collected data versus the global benchmark of 44%. This highlights the country’s growing capability in applying analytics for operational efficiency and innovation. Moreover, Indian manufacturers are prioritising eco-conscious operations, particularly in energy management and lifecycle sustainability.
Workforce development is also gaining traction, with Indian companies placing emphasis on analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork—skills that align with the rising integration of AI in manufacturing environments.
Globally, 95% of manufacturers report planned or ongoing investments in AI/ML, with a 12% year-on-year increase in the use of generative and causal AI—signalling a shift from experimentation to strategic implementation. Quality control remains the top use case for AI, while 49% of manufacturers intend to deploy AI for cybersecurity in 2025, up from 40% in 2024.
Additionally, 48% of global manufacturers plan to repurpose or expand their workforce in response to smart manufacturing investments. Meanwhile, 41% are already leveraging AI and automation to close skill gaps and address labour shortages.
“While infrastructure and data readiness continue to pose challenges, Indian manufacturers are clearly advancing at pace. At Rockwell, we remain committed to accelerating this journey by delivering smart, sustainable, and scalable solutions tailored for India’s industrial evolution,” added Sawhney.
The report illustrates how the convergence of digital tools and skilled human capital is reshaping manufacturing worldwide—fuelling agility, resilience, and long-term growth in a fast-changing industrial era.
Also Read:
Mahindra Accelo Partners With Rockwell Automation For Manufacturing Digitalisation