Date: September 11, 2023. — Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, is establishing hub for EV manufacturing. The Tamil Nadu MSME EV Skilling Program, launched at the CODISSIA Fair Grounds, is a collaborative effort between the World Resources Institute (WRI) India and Facilitating MSMEs (FaMe) Tamil Nadu. Its purpose is to equip MSMEs with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly growing EV sector.
This innovative skilling program has gained interest from over 180 MSMEs. It is made possible through partnerships with CODDISIA, Laghu Udyog Bharati (LUB), Institute of Indian Foundrymen (IIF), Southern India Engineering Manufacturer’s Association (SIEMA), and Scientific and Industrial Testing and Research Centre (SiTarc).
The program offers structured training for individuals at all levels within EV MSMEs, from senior management to blue-collar workers. Running in parallel tracks from September to November. It leverages Coimbatore’s existing industrial ecosystem to expedite local businesse’s entry into the EV traction motor supply chain. Furthermore, it encompasses training in various aspects of electric vehicle manufacturing, including battery technology, assembly processes, design, and maintenance. Additionally, the program will offer insights into market trends, regulations, and sustainability practices.
Notably, this initiative aligns with the Tamil Nadu government’s recent announcement of an EV motor manufacturing cluster. Additionally, they plan to establish a common facility center dedicated to electric vehicle motor development and testing in Coimbatore.
The partnership between WRI India and FaMe TN, stemming from a Memorandum of Understanding signed last year to strengthen Tamil Nadu’s MSME sector. It also aims to facilitate the transition from the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) industry to the emerging EV industry.
V Arun Roy, Secretary to Government, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, commended the program. He emphasized Tamil Nadu’s ambition to be a global EV manufacturing hub. He encouraged MSMEs to seize the opportunity presented by the skilling program to become key suppliers in this burgeoning industry.
Ashwini Hingne, Associate Program Director, WRI India, highlighted the importance of reskilling and upskilling MSMEs and workers. This is to harness opportunities in the evolving EV component manufacturing space and ensure job security during the transition.
With strategic initiatives and partnerships in place, Coimbatore is well on its way to becoming a global center for electric vehicle manufacturing. Moreover, this ensures the growth of the MSME sector and the creation of green jobs in India’s clean mobility ecosystem.
