The ‘Inaugural Session’ highlighted the importance of technology and automation in daily life. Esteemed panelists, including Nitin Vyas, Managing Director & CEO of Beumer India and Chair of CII Sub-Committee, shared valuable opinions during the event. In an exclusive interaction with Cargo Insights. Mr. Vyas emphasized the significance of technology and automation in the industry.
He highlights the far-reaching impact of technology on multiple levels, emphasising its role in increasing productivity, efficiency, and sustainability while underscoring the need for proactive adoption of automation to stay ahead in the rapidly changing technological era.
Nitin, a passionate engineer with a keen interest in problem-solving who has dedicated nearly two decades to working in the field of bulk and discreet material handling systems for two German companies, possesses a deep expertise in automation and material handling systems.
Impact of technology
Nitin advocates technology for productivity, quality, efficiency, and sustainability, especially in bulk material handling’s environmental context.
In India, bulk materials such as iron ore, limestone, and coal are transported from mines to processing plants using trucks, leading to significant emissions. Nitin envisions a more sustainable approach by employing long-distance conveying systems, which would eliminate carbon emissions and result in faster and more efficient material delivery to the plants. He refers to a past ruling by the Honourable Supreme Court, which mandates mechanised methods for conveying materials from mines located within 20 kilometres of plant vicinities. Unfortunately, the enforcement of this ruling in India has been inadequate, reflecting an unfortunate aspect of the country’s efforts towards environmental sustainability.
Nitin cites alarming statistics, revealing that logistics costs in India constitute around 14 percent of the GDP, considerably higher than in developed nations with rates around 8–9 percent. Certain commodities, like steel and cement, experience even higher logistics costs, reaching 25 percent. Nitin underscores the concerning issues of theft, pilferage, and lack of visibility in the logistics sector, challenging operational planning and execution both in the manufacturing and warehousing domains.
To address these challenges, Nitin advocates for the integration of automation into operations. This spectrum of automation includes simple handheld devices, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), stacker cranes, mobile robotics, and other state-of-the-art technologies. As the world undergoes rapid technological transformations, he emphasises the importance of proactive adaptation to stay competitive.
Drawing a parallel with human civilization’s historical progression, Nitin highlights the swift evolution of technology. From ancient times, such as the hunter-gatherer era, to agriculture and the industrial revolution, technological advancements have increasingly accelerated. The first electronics and computers emerged in the mid-20th century, followed by the advent of social networks and mobile apps in the 21st century. The time frame for major technological changes has substantially decreased, indicating the imminent rise of automation and robotics.
Nitin firmly believes that embracing technology is the pathway to success for industries. Being at the forefront of technology adoption, positions companies as winners in the fast-paced technological landscape. Neglecting this transformation, on the other hand, will render them relics of a bygone era. While technology will inevitably make its presence felt, the key lies in being proactive drivers of change rather than passively being pushed by it.
The pivotal question now is whether industries are prepared to take charge of technology or risk being left behind as technology shapes their fate. The answer to this question will define their future relevance and success in the rapidly evolving world of technology and automation.
As the world undergoes rapid technological transformations, he emphasises the importance of proactive adaptation to stay competitive
