India’s goal to be a global manufacturing hub began with the ‘Make in India’ initiative launched in 2014. The motive behind this campaign is to strengthen domestic production, reduce import dependency, and attract foreign investments. This campaign has reshaped the outlook of Indian manufacturing for professionals, entrepreneurs, and policy-watchers alike. The progress of this mission offers both opportunities and insights. In this article, we explore key Indian companies that are driving meaningful impact in real economic terms.
Why ‘Make in India’ Matters in Manufacturing
Manufacturing contributes around 17% to India’s GDP, but the goal is to raise it to 25%. This isn’t just a number—it’s tied directly to job creation, skill development, and export potential. ‘Make in India’ is more than a slogan—it’s a response to the pain points many industries face: high import bills, supply chain vulnerabilities, and under-utilized domestic resources. To overcome these, the government has provided production-linked incentives (PLI), eased compliance norms, and encouraged public-private partnerships.
Leading Indian Companies Championing ‘Make in India’
1. Tata Group
Tata Group is a conglomerate that embodies Indian manufacturing excellence. From Tata Steel to Tata Motors, the group has consistently invested in local manufacturing facilities while exporting globally. Tata Motors, for example, is not only a domestic leader in vehicles but also exports to over 125 countries, reinforcing India’s image as a reliable producer of quality automobiles. Moreover, with the acquisition of Jaguar Land Rover and the development of electric vehicles (EVs), Tata Motors is innovating within India to meet global standards.
2. Reliance Industries
Reliance Industries has transformed sectors like petrochemicals, textiles, and telecom through massive domestic investments. With state-of-the-art refineries and integrated manufacturing hubs, Reliance has reduced India’s dependence on imported raw materials and fuels. The company’s forward-thinking approach—such as backward integration in its textile business and future plans for green hydrogen—aligns directly with the self-reliance goals of ‘Make in India’.
3. Larsen & Toubro (L&T)
L&T plays a vital role in infrastructure and heavy engineering space. It designs and manufactures critical components for power, defence, and nuclear sectors—largely from Indian facilities. The company has also contributed to several national infrastructure projects like metro systems, smart cities, and hydrocarbon platforms. Its strong focus on R&D and domestic production facilities makes it a backbone of India’s industrial growth.
4. Bharat Forge
Part of the Kalyani Group, Bharat Forge is a global leader in precision components for automotive, oil & gas, railways, and defence sectors. With exports to more than 50 countries, its world-class Indian plants produce high-quality forged parts that compete with international standards. Its alignment with defence indigenization, through artillery and aerospace parts production, adds strategic value to the ‘Make in India’ mission.
5. Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M)
Known for its rugged SUVs and tractors, M&M champions rural and urban mobility alike. The company not only has a widespread manufacturing network within India but also invests in R&D centers focused on sustainable mobility, especially electric vehicles. With over 2 million tractors sold, Mahindra has also helped mechanize Indian agriculture, contributing directly to the rural economy.
6. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
As India’s premier aerospace and defence manufacturer, HAL builds everything from fighter jets and helicopters to satellite components—all designed and made in India. It works closely with DRDO and ISRO, playing a vital role in national security. Projects like the Tejas fighter jet are a testament to India’s engineering capabilities and HAL’s contribution to self-reliance in defence technology.
Rising Startups and MSMEs Contributing to the Movement
- Ather Energy, for instance, manufactures smart electric scooters entirely in India and controls both hardware and software.
- boAt, a homegrown electronics brand, assembles much of its product line domestically and aims to shift major manufacturing to Indian soil.
- Atomberg develops energy-efficient ceiling fans using Indian innovation and Indian production.
These companies don’t just create products—they create ecosystems. They bring jobs, reduce imports, and push global quality benchmarks.
Sector-Wise Impact of Indian Manufacturing
- Automobile and EV: Tata, Mahindra, and Ola Electric are creating cost-effective, locally manufactured mobility solutions.
- Defence and Aerospace: HAL, L&T Defence, and Bharat Forge are minimizing import dependency for critical military systems.
- Electronics and Semiconductors: Startups and government-led projects like Semicon India are paving the way for chip production.
- Textiles and Apparel: Reliance and Welspun are reviving Indian textile exports with modern techniques.
- Renewable Energy and Machinery: Adani, Tata Power, and Suzlon are manufacturing solar panels and wind turbines domestically.
Challenges That Still Exist
- Infrastructure Gaps: Limited industrial parks and high logistics costs hurt competitiveness.
- Skilled Labor Shortage: Many companies struggle to find trained workers for modern machinery and digital systems.
- Compliance Burden: While there have been improvements, navigating regulations still remains time-consuming for many manufacturers.
- Global Pressure: Competing with cheaper imports—especially from China—makes it hard for some Indian firms to scale.
The Road Ahead
The future looks promising with schemes like PLI, Startup India, and Digital India providing the right push. Indian companies are also embracing Industry 4.0 with automation, AI, and smart manufacturing tools. With continued policy support and corporate investment, India is on track to not just meet but exceed its ‘Make in India’ goals. The motive is to compete globally while being self-reliant.
Conclusion
India’s manufacturing story is being written not only by billion-dollar giants but also by bold startups and hardworking MSMEs. They’re turning India into a nation that builds its future with its own hands. For the average consumer or business professional, supporting these brands is a step toward economic self-sufficiency. As we continue to grow, it’s important to recognize and support the companies that are making ‘Make in India’ not just a government initiative, but a people-powered movement.
Written by Kavitha Sugumar
