In FY 2023-24, the global economy remained surprisingly resilient while most emerging economies recorded slower growth. The Indian economy, however, demonstrated solid growth and even outpaced major economies. Robust domestic demand and a strong momentum in the manufacturing and services sectors is expected to sustain India’s growth momentum. The Indian economy remains resilient, poised to attain the status of a developed economy by 2047 under the initiative of ‘Viksit Bharat’.
Gradual climatic processes (rise in sea-level, changing rainfall pattern) and frequent weather events (heatwaves and droughts) are impacting businesses. The interplay between climate change and resource scarcity amplifies its impact on the global economy.
These factors are likely to alter the demand pattern, especially for pumps with domestic and agricultural applications.
We are committed to environmental compliance, be it adhering to emission standards, managing waste responsibly or disclosing sustainability initiatives. Our focus on green energy consumption and production of energy-efficient products highlights our dedication to lower our carbon footprint and demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship.
Geopolitical issues have emerged as the single-most important risk considering the wars raging between two regions - Eastern Europe and Middle East - critical to the world’s food and energy supply, which have reduced global supply capacity, thereby stoking global inflation and limiting global growth.
With minimal dependence on international suppliers, the risk towards supply chain disruptions will be less impacted. Also, with presence through manufacturing plants in various continents, the impact from rise in logistics cost is minimised.
Improvement in global economic activity, geopolitical risks and turnaround in India’s GDP growth will impact enterprises. India is emerging as the fastest growing major economy due to a favourable confluence of neutral policy settings, positive credit momentum and manageable macro-economic dynamics. The economy has remained remarkably resilient despite uncertainties in the international geopolitical environment, inflationary pressures, climatic changes and supply chain disruptions.
Global growth, estimated at 3.1% in 2023, is projected to remain at 3.1% in 2024 before rising slightly to 3.2% in 2025 reflecting restrictive monetary policies, withdrawal of fiscal support and low underlying productivity growth. Global headline inflation is expected to decline to 5.9% in 2024 and to 4.5% in 2025, with the 2025 forecast revised down. More extreme weather shocks like floods and droughts, along with the El Niño phenomenon, could also cause food price spikes, exacerbate food insecurity and jeopardise the process of global disinflation.
India’s rapid economic growth, supported by sound macroeconomic policies, positioned it among the fastest-growing major economies globally. Following a strong recovery from the pandemic, India has emerged as a key contributor to global growth. The economy is projected to maintain robust growth in the upcoming two years, driven by resilient domestic demand.
The growing economy, rising investments in agriculture and infrastructure projects, rapid urbanisation and industrialisation are expected to drive further growth in the centrifugal pump market in India benefiting KBL.
Significant investments in the manufacturing sector promoted by the government have improved the overall investment climate and India is viewed as an alternative manufacturing base to diversify supply chains.
This has played a vital role in expanding and modernising the manufacturing sector, thereby accelerating the development and improvement of manufacturing facilities across various industries.
The Government of India’s strategic initiative, ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ seeks to integrate India into global supply chains by attracting foreign investment and promoting joint ventures and collaborations with international companies.
Manufacturers in India have embraced advanced technologies and best practices to meet global standards and enhance competitiveness, thereby encouraging technology transfer and fostering innovation within the domestic manufacturing ecosystem, which has promoted increased export of manufactured goods.
Recent trends in manufacturing demonstrate a shift towards more technologically advanced, sustainable, and agile processes that prioritise efficiency, flexibility and responsiveness to market demands and global challenges.
To effectively navigate market volatility and disruptions, companies are re-evaluating supply chain strategies, leveraging digital tools for remote operations and adopting agile manufacturing practices. Stringent environmental regulations, driven by concerns about global warming, are pushing manufacturers to adopt cleaner technologies, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and comply with new sustainability standards. Companies have been encouraged to develop and adopt technologies that enhance energy efficiency and conserve natural resources to minimise the environmental footprint.
Our manufacturing plants are aligned with these evolving trends and priorities. We have embraced advanced technologies and best practices to enhance efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness. We have additionally prioritised adherence to stringent environmental regulations and adoption of cleaner technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote resource conservation. Our commitment to resilience and agility is reflected in our supply chain strategies, digital transformation efforts and agile manufacturing practices, which ensures that we can effectively navigate market dynamics and disruptions, while driving continual improvement and innovation within our manufacturing ecosystem.
As digital capabilities improve and connectivity becomes omnipresent, technology is poised to quickly and radically change every sector of the Indian economy. New emerging technologies, increased level of digital adoption and behavioural changes in customers will benefit the nation.
Our commitment to digital adoption is rooted in our vision to drive sustainable growth, enhance competitiveness and create value for all stakeholders. We are excited about the opportunities unleashed by digital transformation and remain dedicated to exploring new possibilities for our business.
A highly fragmented market has witnessed increased competition between global players with wide distribution channels and the unorganised sector. Growing technological advancements to develop energy-efficient pumps with higher operational efficiency are expected to create huge opportunities in the Indian industrial pump market.
Customers are seeking companies that provide products distinguished by exceptional features such as high efficiency, superior quality, innovative design and reliability, besides fostering trust and loyalty. This presents a significant opportunity for us to leverage its unique strengths by offering such products and thereby gain a competitive edge.
Our strong brand identity, extensive channel network, dedicated R&D capabilities for developing efficient and futuristic products, customer-centric approach and commitment to sustainable practices further enhances the market attractiveness of our products. Our ongoing transformation journey will cultivate a culture of continuous improvement, enabling us to adapt swiftly to market shifts, refine our offerings and capitalise on emerging opportunities.