EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

We are continuously working on the development and upgradation of new products: Shri Amit Banerjee

Metro Rail News conducted an email interview with Shri Amit Banerjee, Chairman & Managing Director of BEML Limited, a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence. In the interview, he discussed about Rolling Stock.

Shri Banerjee is a graduate of Mechanical Engineering from IIT (BHU), Varanasi. He joined as Assistant Engineer and has vast experience of over 37 years in R&D and manufacturing functions.

He has worked for the indigenous development of Metro Cars for Delhi, Jaipur, Kolkata, Bangalore & Mumbai, Stainless-Steel EMU & Intermediate Metro Cars, Catenary Maintenance Vehicle, and PMS Bridge for the Indian Army, among others. Before assuming the present position, Shri Banerjee was Director (Rail & Metro) BEML.

Here are the edited excerpts: 

As the leader of one of the most promising manufacturing units in the country, what are the significant challenges you face, and how are you responding to them?

The most critical challenge is to keep our supply chain uninterrupted, control the increased input cost and maintain the margins. The current geopolitical situation and after-effects of COVID-19 have led to the increased price of input raw materials, viz. steel & aluminium and disruptions in logistics. As a result, we have taken advanced actions and have entered into long-term contracts with major suppliers to meet commitments.

Also, stiff competition in all segments of business against global players is a significant challenge. More than 70% of BEML orders from customers are won in open tenders involving global MNCs and local players. With increased input and labour costs, margins often have to be compromised.