Hannover, Germany, April 15, 2015: Embarking on ambitious programmes for taking its manufacturing to the next level of competence, India sought strategic collaborations with Germany in hi-tech areas to face the unfolding global competition, where R&D will be a key differentiator.

Addressing a seminar on hi-tech engineering at the ongoing Hannover Fair, Mr Rajan Katoch, Secretary, Department of Heavy Industry, Government of India conveyed the 'Make in India' vision to augment India's position as a leading export hub. Talking about the 100 per cent FDI facilitation for companies entering in the heavy engineering and capital goods sector, he said, "With the GDP of India growing at 7%, there is a need for capital goods in all areas where manufacturing is a focus at present. Motion, Drive and Automation (MDA) is the new center for technological development in the heavy industries area."

Mr Katoch further emphasized on the benefits of strategic collaborations between the two nations to achieve efficiencies and capabilities in the hi-tech industry and tackle competitive challenges of the emerging global scenarios. He also mentioned that a scheme has been recently launched to support the industry for technology modernization and acquisition. This scheme should prove to be a useful tool to boost Indo-German technology co-operation. He also appreciated the support of German companies for technology development in India. The German Government's help in setting up Tool Rooms and the presence of over 500 German companies in India was also appreciated by the Minister.

He further shared that India's domestic production in heavy engineering equipment is currently at USD 31 billion. The imports are USD 18 billion, presenting excellent opportunities to German machinery builders to export to India. Indian exports are worth USD 840 million and this sector directly employs 1.4 million people and indirectly 7 times of the same. By the end of the 12th "Five Year Plan," the target is that the domestic production may be increased to USD 110 billion.

The presentation on "Engineering Sector