India is making significant strides in the manufacturing sector, particularly in the production of high-end electronics such as Apple’s iPhones. The state of Tamil Nadu, in South India, has become a key player in this shift, with the expansion of Foxconn’s manufacturing facilities. This move is part of a larger national manufacturing drive, aimed at reducing China’s dominance in the industry.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and an overall stagnation in manufacturing as a share of the economy, India has managed to increase its production of iPhones significantly. It is projected that the volume produced in India will double by next year, further solidifying its position as a manufacturing powerhouse in the region.
Tamil Nadu, in particular, has proven to be a success story in India’s manufacturing landscape. The state’s minister of industries, T.R.B. Rajaa, highlighted the state’s inbuilt advantages such as quality education, robust infrastructure, and a skilled workforce. Furthermore, Tamil Nadu has made significant progress in formal employment for women, a feat unmatched by other states in India.
This shift towards high-end electronics manufacturing in India is not without precedent. In the past, India was expected to climb the ranks in this sector, but various factors, including the global financial crisis and market dynamics, hindered its progress. However, Tamil Nadu’s success in attracting foreign investment and building a robust industrial ecosystem has set the stage for a resurgence in electronics manufacturing in the region.
Opinion: The progress made by Tamil Nadu in high-end electronics manufacturing is commendable and could serve as a blueprint for other states in India. If India can capitalize on this momentum and further diversify its manufacturing capabilities, it has the potential to become a global manufacturing hub, creating more skilled jobs and boosting its economic growth.