Coimbatore, Aug 24 (KNN) As there is just one robotics cluster globally in Denmark, the development of a cluster in Coimbatore will create several opportunities for industries in the region, said K.V. Karthik, president of Coimbatore Industrial Infrastructure Association (COINDIA).

Currently there are only four to five companies in Coimbatore that are manufacturing robots. The association along with focussing on its regular activities such as tool room and training, will now also divert its attention on promoting the robotic industry.

“Western countries are increasingly opting for robots in manufacturing and with higher use of robots, these countries will be able to ramp up manufacturing at a lower cost. Countries such as India will lose on cost competitiveness in such a scenario,” Karthik told the Hindu.

COINDIA is presently working on a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to submit it to the government, requesting for necessary help in establishing the cluster.

“Development of robots requires more research and development works, testing facilities, etc. The Association will explore possibilities for providing such support to the units here with support from the State government, he said.

Recently, COINDIA had joined hands with PSG College of Technology to train candidates in robotics.

Another thrust area for the Association will be supporting micro, small and medium-scale (MSME) pumpset units here to make motors for electric vehicles. “Coimbatore pumpset industry has the necessary infrastructure to manufacture more than three lakh motors a month. The facilities can be used to manufacture EV motors,” Karthik added.

This will be a joint initiative with Southern India Engineering Manufacturers’ Association and Scientific and Industrial Testing and Research Centre.  (KNN Bureau)