India's DoT launches Industry 4.0 initiative to boost MSMEs & startups

The initiative, titled ‘Industry 4.0: A Baseline Survey among MSMEs,’ aims to understand the challenges faced by MSMEs in adapting to Industry 4.0 and leveraging advanced technologies. Over a 60-day period, the survey will cover five sectors each in the northern and southern parts of India, targeting at least 10 sectors overall. The survey's primary goal is to lay the groundwork for a robust ecosystem capable of capitalising on the capabilities offered by artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and the integration of 5G and 6G networks.

By identifying sector-specific needs and preferences, the initiative aims to recognise the diverse landscape of MSMEs and provide targeted support to foster innovation and competitiveness, the ministry of communications said in a press release.

The survey will address several critical questions, including which Industry 4.0 technologies are being utilised, the number of employees aside from turnover, the IoT devices being used, and the purposes IoT will serve within the firms.

The DoT has invited organisations and startups to submit proposals by June 11, 2024, to participate in this transformative survey. The key recommendations derived from the survey will serve as a foundation for policy interventions aimed at achieving the transformative adoption of Industry 4.0. This, in turn, will enhance the competitive positioning and survivability of MSMEs in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)