In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are redefining the way industries operate, unlocking potential for growth and sustainability. Businesses across sectors are leveraging AI to enhance decision-making, streamline operations, and drive innovation. From manufacturing to supply chain management, these technologies are boosting efficiency, accuracy, and adaptability, keeping organisations competitive in a dynamic environment. Digitalisation, in particular, is transforming traditional industries, facilitating seamless communication, improving transparency, and opening new avenues for market expansion.
As industries embrace these advancements, they not only increase operational efficiency but also reduce environmental impact, promote data-driven strategies, and create opportunities for value addition. The shift towards a digitally empowered industrial ecosystem is reshaping how businesses interact with customers, manage resources, and navigate supply chains, positioning them for long-term success.
Digitalisation in the Indian Sugar Industry
The Indian sugar industry, a cornerstone of the nation’s agrarian economy, is undergoing a technological renaissance. Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are rapidly transforming traditional practices, positioning the industry for unprecedented efficiency and growth. The integration of these advanced tools and technologies, promises a multitude of advantages for India’s sugar industry. These include heightened productivity, cost reduction, improved quality, enhanced transparency, traceability, and a diminished environmental footprint. Furthermore, digitalisation opens avenues for innovation, value addition, and expanded market access.
To fully harness the potential of digitalisation and AI, the industry is also adopting modern techniques such as satellite surveillance to monitor sugarcane crops effectively, ensuring optimal growth and yield. Similarly, virtual marketplaces are emerging, enabling farmers and buyers to connect more seamlessly, driving efficiency and fostering stronger relationships within the supply chain.
At the forefront of this technological transformation is Triveni Engineering & Industries Limited (TEIL), which exemplifies how cutting-edge technologies can optimise various aspects of the sugar production process. The Company’s robust business model is built on the foundation of research & development (R&D) capabilities, excellence in manufacturing, and investments in world-class digital technologies. TEIL has embraced advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and decision making aimed at its customer centric approach.
Empowering Farmers Through Digital Initiatives
TEIL is committed to empowering farmers by incorporating digital technologies into sugarcane farming. Through its comprehensive sugarcane development programme, the Company continuously engages with farmers to increase sugarcane productivity. Its dedicated sugarcane development team works closely with the farmers, disseminating knowledge on new technologies and innovations in the field of agriculture in general and sugarcane in particular.
Additionally, TEIL utilises GPS technology to provide real-time information on weather, disease, and other matters. Satellite mapping and drone-based chemical spraying technologies are employed for effective disease management.
The Triveni Cane platform, a dedicated portal and app, revolutionises farmer engagement by offering valuable insights such as soil testing, fertilizer recommendations, and plot-specific guidance. It facilitates seamless communication between farmers and experts through text and voice messaging in English and Hindi and utilises GPS technology for procurement and real-time updates. The platform’s impact is evident with 1.98 lakh farmers using it regularly, over 1 lakh queries resolved, and 9.25 lakh farmer plots mapped.
TEIL has planned various technology initiatives to further enhance communication with farmers. These include a Text-to-call notification, whereby text alerts are converted to voice and automatically forwarded to farmers. Moreover, the Company is developing an AI-based communication system aimed at providing prompt responses to farmer queries through AI powered assistance. These technologies will significantly improve engagement with the farmer community, offering real-time updates on crop health, yield potential, and market conditions.
Enhancing Supply Chain Efficiency with IoT
In the Sugar business, effective supply chain management is essential, given the vast network of farmers and multiple variables involved. TEIL has implemented Internet of Things (IoT) across its network of trucks allowing real-time tracking of collection, payments and truck movement. This data is integrated with software that provides a comprehensive view of supply chain operations, displayed on dashboards which are monitored by a dedicated call centre.
TEIL has also equipped marketing managers with tablets to facilitate tracking and resolving issues. This has significantly optimised supply chain planning and improved turnaround times, reducing sugarcane cut to crush time and ensuring its quality is maintained for better recovery. To further enhance these operations, TEIL is developing call automation technologies to streamline communication with truck drivers, ensuring prompt actions in case of any unforeseen delays.
Scaling industrial excellence in Power Transmission business with AR and AI
TEIL’s Power Transmission business is also leveraging advanced technologies to enhance its competitive edge. Augmented Reality (AR) is being used to train personnel and provide remote support for refurbishing operations, particularly for high-speed gearboxes used in steam and gas turbines. AR modules offer a unique way to facilitate training without requiring personnel to be physically present, enhancing operational flexibility.
Moreover, several AI driven initiatives are planned for FY 25 including the Automation of complex design calculations and documentation for enhanced accuracy and Integration of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) with Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) to enhance manufacturing efficiency. TEIL is also focusing on the implementation of Industry 4.0 initiatives through a pilot project, which will optimise plant operations and resource allocation.
With the future brimming with opportunities, Triveni Engineering & Industries Ltd is poised to lead the next phase of growth by embracing better technologies, digitalisation and innovation.
