Precision Simplified VDMA Tech Meet Highlights the Future of Smart Manufacturing

The future of manufacturing will not be determined merely by how much industries produce, but by how precisely they produce. That powerful message resonated throughout the VDMA Technology Meet 2026 titled “Precision Simplified”, held recently at Le Meridien, Coimbatore, where industry leaders, manufacturing experts and technology specialists gathered to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of precision engineering and advanced manufacturing.

Dr. S. Chandrasekar, Director, Roots Group of Companies addressing the VDMA Technology Meet in Coimbatore. Rajesh Nath, MD of VDMA India is seated on the left.

Organised by VDMA India, the event brought together key stakeholders from the automotive, engineering and industrial manufacturing sectors to deliberate on how precision, process optimisation and innovation are becoming the defining pillars of global competitiveness.

Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Rajesh Nath delivered a compelling address on the changing dynamics of manufacturing excellence and the shrinking margin for error in modern industry. “Today, everything is based on detail and mastering,” he remarked.

Dr. Nath highlighted the growing importance of the precision manufacturing industry as a key contributor to India’s economic progress. Valued at approximately INR 116 billion in 2024, the sector is expected to grow to nearly INR 183 billion by 2030, driven by an estimated CAGR of around 8%, setting the tone for the technology-focused discussions that followed.

One of the most insightful sessions at the event was delivered by Dr. S. Chandrasekar, who spoke extensively on the evolution of manufacturing from cost efficiency to innovation-led value creation.

According to him, the next phase of industrial growth will be driven by “higher precision and smarter processes.” He explained how manufacturers across the world are now focusing not only on reducing costs but also on improving process excellence, minimising vibration, enhancing tooling efficiency and increasing productivity.

“The future belongs to those who provide value with precision,” he remarked.

Dr. Chandrasekar explained how Japanese companies emerged as global leaders by mastering precision geometry, stable production systems and measurement discipline. These principles continue to remain critical from the customer’s perspective, especially in industries where consistency and reliability directly impact performance and trust.

He further highlighted how manufacturing clusters across Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Hosur and other industrial hubs are evolving through hybrid manufacturing approaches and advanced engineering practices. According to him, staying competitive in today’s global market requires not only technological capability but also strong strategic direction.

Referring specifically to Coimbatore’s engineering ecosystem, he stated that the region possesses several strategic advantages, including strong MSME networks, engineering expertise, agile manufacturing capability, a practical education culture and vision-driven industrial leadership.

“We have the capability, ecosystem and practical engineering culture to become a major force in precision manufacturing,” he noted.

Another engaging address came from Kanishka Arumugam, who spoke about building a sustainable manufacturing ecosystem through precision and consistency. Sharing the company’s journey since 1981, he explained how continuous improvement and long-term commitment to engineering excellence have enabled the organisation to grow steadily in a highly competitive environment.

Dignitaries after a session at the meet

Deepak Rayagoudar delivered a detailed technical presentation on “Precision Simplified”, highlighting how modern tooling technologies, advanced machining strategies and process optimisation techniques are enabling manufacturers to achieve higher productivity and improved accuracy.

Sujeet Pradhan presented innovative solutions for challenging machining applications, showcasing advanced coating technologies and engineering solutions designed to improve tool life, machining stability and operational efficiency in demanding manufacturing environments.

Adding to the discussions on productivity enhancement, Nitin Shinde spoke about the latest tool-holding technologies and process optimisation strategies. His session showcased advanced tool-holding systems that are helping industries achieve superior machining precision, reduced vibration and improved process reliability.

The VDMA Technology Meet in Coimbatore successfully demonstrated that the future of manufacturing lies at the intersection of precision, innovation and strategic adaptability. As industries continue to face rising global competition, evolving customer expectations and rapid technological disruption, precision engineering is emerging as the backbone of sustainable industrial growth.