India’s Construction Equipment Industry Embraces Smart Tech for Future-Ready Growth

A new dawn is ushering in India for the construction and infrastructure equipment sectors, gaining empirical momentum from government initiatives and OEM innovations. A landmark development is related to the Automated and Intelligent Machine-Aided Construction (AIMC) proposed policy of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, which aims to improve efficiency and safety in highway projects. The pilot project on AI-MC has shown promise on the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway, where GPS-aided graders, intelligent compactors, and stringless pavers are involved; it is set to be complemented with scaling up for greenfield expressways.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari mentioned the intent of the government to develop accountability in contractors, too, by adopting technology for transparency and quality.

Going by the leading equipment manufacturers, fully on board with this paradigm shift, Ramesh Palagiri, CEO for Wirtgen India, said, “Smart automation ensures precision paving, lesser material usage, and integrated digital control across machines. VG Sakthikumar, MD of Schwing Stetter India, noted the role of advanced telematics in elevating intelligence on sites while reducing downtime. Satendra Tiwari of Case Construction, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of ‘real-time data through telematics to optimize fleet usage and consequently project profitability.’

Central to his project is establishing standards for an accounting practice. Over 1.2 million assets are connected with Caterpillar nationally and around the world. Older equipment is being retrofitted to enable data-driven insights.

Digitalisation is becoming indispensable. Case’s latest equipment line includes real-time diagnostics even on 25HP compactors an industry-first in India. Palagiri mentioned innovations like Smart Level Pro and Smart Pave that automate screed positioning and milling depth, enabled by RTK GNSS systems.

Electrification is also gaining ground. Sakthikumar revealed that Schwing is deploying electric concrete pumps and tunnelling equipment abroad, with India now adapting these technologies.

While Q1 FY2026 saw a slump due to early monsoons and project delays, ICRA predicts a recovery in H2, fueled by government capital expenditure. ACE’s new CEV V-compliant machines, including backhoe loaders, cranes, and telehandlers, reflect this market shift.

As India pushes ahead with mega infrastructure projects, the integration of AI, automation, and digitalisation is redefining the country’s construction landscape smarter, greener, and future-ready.