Government Support Propelling India’s Electronics Industry

As the demand for high-quality displays continues to rise, India has positioned itself as a hub for display manufacturing and innovation.

From smart TVs to digital signage, Indian companies are stepping up to meet both domestic and international demand, driving advancements in cutting-edge technologies like AI, IoT, and 5G.

As India’s electronics industry gears up for a future where displays will be integral to sectors such as education, commerce, and entertainment, Ekkaa Electronics is paving the way with a focus on superior technology, product diversification, and expanding its market reach.

In an interview with IGNITO, Sagar Gupta, Director, Ekka Electronics delves into the journey of the Indian display sector, exploring its rapid expansion alongside the broader electronics industry. He discussed various challenges, opportunities, and policy support that have catalyzed this growth, along with the role of industry leaders and the government in fostering a thriving ecosystem.

You started at a very young age of 22, what prompted you to enter into manufacturing that too electronics manufacturing which is considered as a tech man game. Could you please share your experiences as an entrepreneur in this dynamic sector electronics.

Gupta: Starting Ekkaa Electronics was driven by a passion for innovation and a desire to contribute to India’s burgeoning tech landscape. The decision to enter electronics manufacturing was fuelled by a combination of youthful ambition and a clear vision for the future.

The journey began with a deep interest in electronics and a recognition of the sector’s potential for growth and impact. Despite the challenges, including the steep learning curve and the need for substantial technical expertise, the drive to create cutting-edge products kept me motivated. The early days were marked by extensive research, networking with industry experts, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

One of the key experiences was understanding the importance of quality and precision in manufacturing. Establishing a robust supply chain and investing in state-of-the-art technology were crucial steps. Collaborating with a talented team and fostering a culture of continuous improvement helped in overcoming initial hurdles.

The dynamic nature of the electronics sector demands constant adaptation and innovation. Staying ahead of technological advancements and market trends has been both challenging and rewarding. The journey has been a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic planning, and the willingness to embrace new ideas.

Now when I look back, I feel that my entrepreneurial path in electronics manufacturing has been a blend of passion, learning, and resilience.

What is your vision for Ekkaa Electronics in the next fivg ygars and so on?

Gupta: In next five years, we aim to further solidify our position as a leading player in the electronics manufacturing sector, both in home and in abroad, by significantly expanding our manufacturing capabilities and investing in cutting-edge technology.

Our immediate focus is on establishing a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Noida, which will enhance our production capacity and enable us to meet the growing demand for high-quality electronic products. This facility will not only cater to the domestic market but also position us as a key exporter, contributing to India’s goal of becoming a global electronics manufacturing hub.

Additionally, we are committed to driving innovation in product development. We also plan to diversify our product portfolio to include advanced consumer electronics such as smart TVs, multimedia speakers, and wearable technology. By leveraging the latest advancements in AI and IoT, we aim to create products that offer superior performance and user experience. Our goal is to increase the value addition in our products from 5% to 40%, thereby enhancing our competitiveness and reducing dependency on imports.

Our long-term vision is to foster a culture of continuous improvement and sustainability. We are dedicated to adopting environmentally friendly manufacturing practices and promoting the use of renewable energy sources in our operations. Furthermore, we plan to invest in skill development programs to nurture a highly skilled workforce that can drive innovation and excellence.

As we are coming up with Interactive Smart Board and Digital Commercial signage display, we also paving the path to become Digital Education Technology partner with the State Governments. By staying ahead of technological trends, and maintaining a customer-centric approach, we envision Ekkaa Electronics as a pioneer in the global electronics industry, setting new benchmarks for quality and innovation.

How did the idea of establishing Ekkaa Electronics evolve? What motivated you to venture into the electronics industry, particularly in a competitive market like India?

Gupta: The idea of establishing Ekkaa Electronics evolved from an innate passion for technology and a keen interest in the transformative potential of electronics. During my early years, I was fascinated by how electronic devices could simplify and enhance everyday life. This curiosity led me to pursue studies in electronics engineering, where I gained a comprehensive understanding of the field. The decision to venture into electronics manufacturing was further influenced by the rapid technological advancements and the growing demand for innovative electronic products in India.

“Motivation to enter the electronics industry stemmed from a desire to contribute to India’s self-reliance in technology. Observing the heavy reliance on imported electronic components and products, I saw an opportunity to make a significant impact by establishing a domestic manufacturing unit. The vision was to create high-quality, affordable electronic products that could compete with international brands.”

Despite competitive nature of the market, the challenge was seen as an opportunity to innovate and excel. The initial phase involved extensive market research, understanding consumer needs, and identifying gaps in the market. Collaborating with industry experts and building a skilled team were crucial steps in laying the foundation for Ekkaa Electronics. The journey has been marked by continuous learning and adaptation, with a focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

What were some of the key challenges you faced while building such a significant entity in the electronics sector? How did you overcome them?

Gupta: Building Ekkaa Electronics into a significant entity in the electronics sector presented several key challenges. One of the foremost challenges was navigating the complexities of the supply chain. The electronics industry is heavily dependent on a global supply chain, and disruptions, such as semiconductor shortages and logistical delays, posed significant hurdles.

To mitigate these issues, we established strong relationships with multiple suppliers and invested in inventory management systems to ensure a steady flow of essential components. Additionally, we adopted a flexible procurement strategy, allowing us to adapt quickly to market fluctuations and maintain production continuity.

Another major challenge was the intense competition within the electronics market. Competing with established international brands required us to differentiate our products through innovation and quality. We focused on extensive research and development to create cutting- edge products that met the evolving needs of consumers. By leveraging advanced technologies such as AI and IoT, we were able to introduce unique features that set our products apart. Furthermore, we implemented stringent quality control measures to ensure that every product leaving our facility met the highest standards of excellence.

Lastly, attracting and retaining skilled talent was a critical challenge. The rapid pace of technological advancements in the electronics sector demands a highly skilled workforce. To address this, we invested in comprehensive training programs and fostered a culture of continuous learning and development. We also established partnerships with academic institutions to create a pipeline of talented graduates ready to join our team. By providing opportunities for professional growth and creating an engaging work environment, we were able to build a dedicated and innovative team that drives our success.

Currently, your product line includes LED TVs ranging from 24” to 98”. Could you share Ekkaa Electronics’ plans regarding diversifying into other product categories?

Gupta: We plan to diversify into several new product categories, starting with smart home devices. This includes smart speakers, Interactive Smart Board in all TVs from 55” as well as digital commercial signage in all TVs of 33” onwards, home automation systems, and security solutions that leverage the latest advancements in AI and IoT. Our goal is to create an integrated ecosystem of smart devices that enhance convenience, security, and energy efficiency for our customers.

We are also exploring the wearable technology segment and CMS Software. We recognize the growing demand for health and fitness tracking devices, and aim to introduce a range of smartwatches and fitness bands that offer advanced health monitoring features. These products will be designed to provide accurate and real-time data, helping users to maintain a healthy lifestyle. By incorporating innovative features and ensuring high-quality standards, we aim to establish a strong presence in the wearable tech market.

Furthermore, we are looking to expand into the audio and multimedia segment. This includes developing high-quality headphones, earphones, and multimedia speakers that cater to both casual listeners and audiophiles. Our focus will be on delivering superior sound quality, ergonomic design, and durability.

Before launching Ekkaa Electronics, several established players were already there in the television segment. How did you navigate the competition and position Ekkaa Electronics as a unique brand?

Gupta: Differentiating Ekkaa Electronics from established players required a strategic approach. So, our primary focus was on innovation and quality. We invested in research and development to create LED TVs that offered superior picture quality, advanced features, and energy efficiency. By incorporating the latest technologies and ensuring stringent quality control, we were able to deliver products that met and exceeded customer expectations.

To position Ekkaa Electronics as a unique brand, we emphasized our commitment to customer satisfaction and after-sales service. We established a robust customer support system and offered extended warranties, which helped build trust and loyalty among our customers. Additionally, we leveraged digital marketing and social media to engage with our audience, gather feedback, and continuously improve our offerings based on customer insights.

Apart from that, we adopted a competitive pricing strategy without compromising on quality. By optimizing our supply chain and manufacturing processes, we were able to offer high-quality products at affordable prices. This approach not only made our products accessible to a broader audience but also positioned Ekkaa Electronics as a brand that delivers exceptional value.

As someone deeply involved in the electronics industry, how do you view the government’s support for the sector? Are there any additional measures you believe are necessary for further growth?

Gupta: The government’s support for the electronics sector has been instrumental in fostering growth and innovation. Initiatives such as the ‘Make in India’ campaign and the PLI scheme have provided significant incentives for domestic manufacturing. These policies have not only attracted investments but also encouraged the development of a robust supply chain within the country. The focus on skill development and infrastructure improvements has further strengthened the industry’s foundation.

“However, for sustained growth, additional measures are necessary. Enhancing research and development capabilities through increased funding and collaboration between industry and academia is crucial. Simplifying regulatory processes and providing tax incentives for R&D activities can spur innovation. Additionally, addressing challenges related to the availability of raw materials and components through strategic partnerships and investments in local production can reduce dependency on imports.”

Looking ahead, how do you see India’s electronics industry evolving in the next 5 to fi0 years, particularly in terms of innovation, manufacturing, and market demand.

Gupta: Looking ahead, India’s electronics industry is poised for significant evolution over the next 5 to 10 years, driven by innovation, enhanced manufacturing capabilities, and increasing market demand. The proactive government policies are expected to attract substantial investments in research and development, fostering a culture of innovation. We anticipate a surge in the development of advanced technologies, including AI, IoT, and 5G, which will drive the creation of cutting-edge electronic products.

In terms of manufacturing, India is set to become a global hub for electronics production. The establishment of state- of-the-art manufacturing facilities and the enhancement of supply chain infrastructure will play a crucial role in this transformation. The focus will be on increasing the domestic production of electronic components, reducing dependency on imports, and boosting exports. By 2026, the electronics manufacturing sector is projected to reach a production value of $300 billion, significantly contributing to the country’s GDP. This growth will also create numerous employment opportunities, further strengthening the economy.

Market demand for electronic products in India is expected to rise exponentially, driven by a tech-savvy young population and increasing disposable incomes. The proliferation of smart devices, wearable technology, and home automation systems will cater to the evolving needs of consumers. Additionally, the push towards digitalization and the adoption of smart infrastructure will further fuel demand.