106
/
4
Min Read
This is the second centre in a planned series of competency centres being established across the country in 2026. Earlier, the Automotive Competency Centre (ACC) was launched in Chennai in February 2026. The new SMCC will combine experiential learning, industry collaboration, research and faculty development, providing students, working professionals and educators with opportunities to work on real industrial challenges.
Bengaluru Chosen as a Strategic Hub
Bengaluru was selected for this centre because it is considered India’s leading technology and industrial hub. The city is home to major companies and MSMEs associated with aerospace, defence, electronics, automobiles and advanced manufacturing.
The main objective of the SMCC is to solve real-world manufacturing challenges. For this, the centre will focus on industry-driven projects, applied research and hands-on training.
Special Focus on Industry 4.0 Technologies
The centre will work on advanced technologies such as Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) for manufacturing, Digital Twins, Virtual Commissioning and Advanced Robotics. These technologies will be used to improve productivity, enhance quality, increase energy efficiency and optimise manufacturing processes.
The centre will not only focus on teaching technology but also on applying these technologies as practical solutions for real industrial problems.
Modern Labs and Practical Training Facilities
The centre has established state-of-the-art laboratories in areas such as Mechatronics, Machine Vision, Industry 4.0/5.0 Systems, Industrial Robotics, Extended Reality (XR) and Rapid Prototyping.
In addition, the centre will offer short 2–3 day intensive training programmes and specialised six-month courses designed according to industry requirements. This will help working professionals upgrade their skills while giving students industry-oriented practical exposure.
Students to Get Opportunities to Become Industry-Ready
The centre is expected to become a major platform for students to learn emerging technologies and become industry-ready. Students will not be limited to textbook learning but will also get direct exposure to AI-based manufacturing systems, robotics, automation and smart factory technologies.
Students will have opportunities to participate in live projects, industry case studies and research-based activities, which will strengthen their technical, analytical and problem-solving abilities. In addition, working with industry experts and companies will help them secure better internship and employment opportunities.
This initiative will prepare students for careers in rapidly growing sectors such as Industry 4.0, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Digital Manufacturing. It will also encourage innovation and startup culture, enabling students to convert their ideas into prototypes and business models.
Support for MSMEs in Digital Transformation
One of the major goals of the SMCC is to support MSMEs in their digital transformation journey. Many small and medium enterprises face financial and technical challenges while adopting new technologies. This centre will provide them with opportunities to understand and adopt advanced technologies without making heavy investments.
MSMEs will be able to test their solutions, develop projects in collaboration with experts and students, and evaluate return on investment (ROI) before large-scale deployment. This will help reduce both risks and costs.
Towards Making India Self-Reliant in Advanced Manufacturing
V. Ramgopal Rao said that the launch of this centre in Bengaluru is a major step towards building stronger collaboration between academia and industry. He added that the centre will help students, educators and industries solve real manufacturing challenges and contribute to making India self-reliant in advanced manufacturing.
G. Sundar said that the initiative will create a learning environment aligned with the changing needs of the industry. It will equip students and professionals with skills that will remain relevant in the long term and accelerate the digital transformation of India’s manufacturing sector.
Boost to Industry Collaboration and Innovation
Seshnath B said that the centre is an important initiative towards strengthening India’s industrial future. Future technologies will be showcased through real demonstrations and proof-of-concept models, which will further strengthen collaboration between industries and academic institutions.
