This column is in continuation of our series of opinion articles from thought and practice leaders from India’s woodworking industry. Gopi T., a technical professional with more than 25 years’ experience and Managing Director of Bengaluru-based Woodtech Consultants, tells us how to walk the talk on modernising the industry.

The evolution of the woodworking industry from 1992 to the present day has been profound. Initially reliant on traditional craftsmanship and manual labour, the industry has embraced modern machinery and automation. The liberalization and globalization of the Indian economy in 1991 reduced import-export duties and opened new business opportunities, including in furniture manufacturing.

The renaming of the Indian Plywood Manufacturers’ Research Association to the Indian Plywood Industries Research and Training Institute in 1992 marked a shift towards new wood species and modern machinery, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

The introduction of the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) in 1999 supported businesses in upgrading equipment, leading to the use of plywood, particle board, and MDF in panel wood processing.

The incorporation of CNC technology, computer-aided design and manufacturing, and the introduction of IoT (Internet of Things) devices has enhanced precision and efficiency, allowing for complex and customized designs.

Recent trends have focused on sustainability driven by consumer demand, leading many companies to prioritize environmentally friendly practices and certified wood products.

Government policies, such as the Foreign Trade Policy in 2004 and GST in 2017, have further boosted the industry’s global competitiveness by simplifying trade and taxation. Today, the Indian woodworking industry is growing rapidly, driven by urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and increasing demand for furniture.

Digital transformation

The woodworking industry is experiencing a significant transformation due to ‘Industry 4.0’ and IoT. These advancements are revolutionizing traditional practices by introducing automation, efficiency, and connectivity to woodworking machinery.

As global interconnectivity increases, the sector embraces these technologies to stay competitive and address the growing demands for customization, precision, and sustainability.

Industry 4.0 and IoT are central to the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’, blending physical and digital realms to optimize manufacturing processes. In woodworking, these technologies boost productivity, reduce downtime, and improve resource utilization.

Integrating smart sensors, data analytics, and real-time communication makes machinery more intelligent and capable of self-optimization. The rise of smart factories exemplifies this shift, utilizing connected machines and data-driven decision-making to streamline production and enhance overall efficiency.

IoT-enabled machinery also offers predictive maintenance, allowing for early issue detection, minimizing downtime, and reducing maintenance costs.

The adoption of IoT has significantly advanced automation in woodworking. Connected systems enable machines to communicate, facilitating the seamless integration of production processes.

This automation reduces manual intervention, lowers the likelihood of errors, and cuts production costs, giving companies a competitive edge. Furthermore, Industry 4.0 technologies empower businesses to make data-driven decisions. Real-time analytics enable managers to monitor production, track machine performance, and optimize schedules, enhancing operational efficiency.

Sustainable manufacturing

Industry 4.0 and IoT also support a more sustainable approach to woodworking. Optimized processes and resource management reduce waste and energy consumption, contributing to environmental preservation. As the industry integrates these technologies, it is poised to thrive in an increasingly connected and data-driven world.

Woodtech is committed to educating and supporting manufacturers with the latest technology, helping the industry grow and set global standards. This includes enabling the sector to export finished goods in larger volumes and meet the demand for modern trends and designs.

The integration of robotics into woodworking is not just a technological leap but a fundamental shift in the industry. Woodtech Consultants believes that embracing robotics is essential for progress, as it transforms the craft of woodworking through increased precision and efficiency.

Robotic arms now handle tasks with unparalleled accuracy, turning labor-intensive processes into precise operations. This efficiency extends from raw material handling to finishing touches, ensuring a seamless workflow.

Robotics also aligns with our commitment to sustainability by optimizing material usage and reducing waste. As automation advances, upskilling the workforce is crucial.

Woodtech’s emphasis on training ensures that artisans work harmoniously with robotic systems, enhancing both human and machine contributions. Our commitment includes one-on-one training with every machinery delivery.

The robotic revolution connects the global woodworking community, expanding the reach of our “Make in India” products worldwide. Far from displacing traditional craftsmanship, robotics complements it, reflecting our adaptability and commitment to excellence.

Role of MSMEs

On June 27th, we celebrated International MSME Day, followed by a week-long celebration dedicated to this vital sector. Representing Woodtech and collaborating with various other MSMEs in the Indian market was a wonderful moment.

Woodtech identifies as an MSME and actively supports and works with several others in this sector. Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role in the woodworking industry, significantly impacting economic growth, technological advancements, export potential, and employment generation.

MSMEs have a substantial impact on the export potential of the woodworking industry. These enterprises specialize in manufacturing a diverse range of wooden products, including furniture, doors, flooring, and decorative items, catering to both domestic and international markets.

According to recent statistics, MSMEs account for a significant share of woodworking exports, contributing to the country’s foreign exchange earnings. For instance, the global woodworking industry’s export value reached $425 billion in 2020, with a notable contribution from MSMEs.

These enterprises are often at the forefront of adopting and implementing innovative technologies. MSMEs embrace automation, computer numerical control (CNC) machinery, and advanced manufacturing processes to enhance productivity, precision, and product quality. By incorporating state-of-the-art technologies,

MSMEs meet evolving market demands, offer customized solutions, and stay competitive in a globalized industry. At Woodtech, we are committed to bringing new and modern technologies to the Indian market, aiming to stay at the forefront of the global platform.

Economic contribution

Furthermore, the woodworking MSME sector significantly contributes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). These enterprises generate substantial revenue through manufacturing, sales, and export activities. Beyond direct GDP contribution,

MSMEs support various ancillary industries, such as timber suppliers, machinery manufacturers, and logistics services, creating a ripple effect on the overall economy. A World Bank study indicates that MSMEs contribute around 40% of manufacturing output in developing countries, with woodworking being a significant sector.

Job creation is another vital role of MSMEs in woodworking. These enterprises provide employment opportunities for a wide range of skilled and unskilled workers, reducing unemployment rates and improving socio-economic conditions.

From carpenters and craftsmen to machine operators and designers, MSMEs offer diverse career opportunities within the industry. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), MSMEs account for over 70% of global employment, with woodworking being a prominent sector.

MSMEs are instrumental in driving the growth, innovation, and sustainability of the woodworking industry. Their contributions to export potential, technological adoption, economic growth, job creation, and automation underscore their significance.

As Woodtech Consultants continues to support and collaborate with MSMEs, we recognize the crucial role they play in shaping the future of woodworking. By fostering an environment of innovation, efficiency, and quality, MSMEs ensure that the woodworking industry remains vibrant, competitive, and resilient.

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