Introduction: A Transformative Decade for Mining and Construction Equipment in India

India’s mining and construction equipment (MCE) sector is on the brink of a remarkable transformation. According to a recent Business Standard report, the sector is projected to reach a market size of $45 billion by 2030, up from $18 billion in 2023. This anticipated growth, driven by infrastructure development, government initiatives, and technological advancements, presents a wealth of opportunities for professional services firms, especially those establishing or scaling Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India.

In this article, we analyze the key drivers behind this growth, the implications for GCCs, and how organizations like Han Digital are uniquely positioned to help companies navigate the evolving talent landscape.

Key Highlights from the Business Standard Report

• Market Expansion: The Indian MCE sector is expected to more than double by 2030, reaching $45 billion.
• Growth Drivers: Infrastructure projects, mining reforms, and increased mechanization are fueling demand.
• Export Potential: India is emerging as a manufacturing hub, with exports of construction equipment set to grow significantly.
• Technological Integration: Digitalization, automation, and green technologies are reshaping the sector.
• Talent Demand: The sector’s expansion will require a new generation of skilled professionals, especially in engineering, data analytics, and digital transformation.

These findings are corroborated by recent research from India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) and McKinsey & Company, highlighting India’s strategic focus on becoming a global manufacturing and innovation hub for mining and construction equipment.

Market Drivers: Infrastructure, Policy, and Technology

1. Infrastructure Development

The Indian government’s ambitious infrastructure pipeline, including the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) and the PM Gati Shakti initiative, is catalyzing demand for construction and mining equipment. The NIP alone aims to invest over $1.4 trillion in infrastructure projects by 2025, creating a robust demand for advanced machinery and skilled talent.

2. Policy Reforms and Ease of Doing Business

Reforms in mining policies, such as the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, have streamlined operations and attracted foreign direct investment (FDI). This has encouraged global OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and professional services companies to establish or expand their GCCs in India, leveraging the country’s talent pool and cost efficiencies.

3. Technological Advancements

Automation, IoT, telematics, and green technologies are rapidly being adopted in the sector. According to a PwC India 2024 report, digital transformation is now a top priority for MCE companies, driving demand for specialized talent in data analytics, cybersecurity, and AI-driven operations.

Implications for Global Capability Centres (GCCs)

The exponential growth of the mining and construction equipment sector has significant implications for GCCs, particularly those in professional services, engineering, R&D, and digital transformation.

1. Talent Acquisition and Development

As the sector evolves, there is a surge in demand for professionals skilled in mechanical engineering, automation, robotics, supply chain management, and sustainability. GCCs are increasingly tasked with building teams that can drive innovation, manage global supply chains, and implement digital solutions.

2. Strategic Location and Ecosystem

India’s major cities—Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai—are emerging as preferred destinations for GCCs due to their robust talent ecosystems, educational institutions, and supportive government policies. Recent NASSCOM research highlights that over 1,600 GCCs now operate in India, employing more than 1.66 million professionals, with a growing focus on engineering and digital roles.

3. Innovation and Digital Transformation

GCCs are at the forefront of driving digital transformation in the MCE sector. From predictive maintenance and remote equipment monitoring to AI-powered project management, GCCs are developing solutions that enhance operational efficiency and sustainability.

Recent Research: The Evolving Role of GCCs in India’s Industrial Growth

According to a 2024 EY report, India’s GCCs are transitioning from cost centers to global innovation hubs. This shift is particularly evident in sectors like mining and construction equipment, where GCCs are leading R&D, digitalization, and process optimization initiatives for their parent organizations worldwide.

Key findings from the report include:

• Over 50% of new GCCs in 2023-24 are focused on engineering, R&D, and digital transformation.
• GCCs are playing a pivotal role in developing sustainable and green technologies for the MCE sector.
• There is a growing emphasis on leadership development, with companies investing in upskilling and cross-functional training.

Han Digital: Your Strategic Partner in Talent and Leadership for the MCE Sector

As the mining and construction equipment sector accelerates towards its $45 billion target, the need for specialized talent and visionary leadership becomes paramount. Han Digital stands out as a trusted partner for organizations looking to establish or expand their GCCs in India.

1. Deep Industry Understanding

With years of experience in talent research and consulting, Han Digital possesses a unique understanding of the talent dynamics in the MCE sector. Our proprietary talent intelligence platforms and market mapping tools enable us to identify, attract, and retain top professionals across engineering, digital, and leadership roles.

2. Senior Leadership Connections

Han Digital’s extensive network with senior leadership across global organizations ensures that we can facilitate strategic hires and leadership transitions seamlessly. Our relationships with CXOs, business heads, and functional leaders provide our clients with access to the best minds in the industry.

3. Customized Talent Solutions for GCCs

We offer end-to-end talent solutions tailored for GCCs, including:

• Workforce planning and talent mapping for new GCC setups
• Leadership hiring and succession planning
• Digital and engineering talent acquisition
• Employer branding and EVP (Employee Value Proposition) consulting
• Diversity and inclusion strategies

Our expertise ensures that GCCs can build high-performing teams that drive innovation and deliver business outcomes in the rapidly evolving MCE landscape.

Case Study: Enabling a Leading Global OEM’s GCC Expansion in India

Recently, Han Digital partnered with a Fortune 500 mining equipment manufacturer to establish their engineering and digital GCC in Bengaluru. Our team conducted a comprehensive talent landscape study, benchmarked compensation, and identified leadership talent across R&D, automation, and supply chain functions.

The result: The client successfully hired over 200 engineers and digital experts within 12 months, reduced time-to-hire by 30%, and established a leadership team that now drives global innovation from India.

Future Outlook: What Lies Ahead for the MCE Sector and GCCs?

The next decade will see India not only as a major consumer but also as an exporter of mining and construction equipment. As companies invest in smart factories, green technologies, and digital platforms, the role of GCCs will become even more strategic.

Key trends to watch include:

• Increased automation and AI adoption in manufacturing and operations
• Greater integration of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) practices in business strategies
• Expansion of export-oriented manufacturing from India to global markets
• Continued focus on digital and engineering talent to drive innovation

Organizations that invest in the right talent and leadership today will be best positioned to capitalize on the sector’s growth and global opportunities.

Conclusion: Seize the Opportunity with Han Digital

The Indian mining and construction equipment sector’s journey to $45 billion by 2030 is not just a story of market expansion—it’s a testament to the country’s growing capabilities in innovation, talent, and leadership. For professional services firms and global organizations, now is the time to establish or scale GCCs that can drive transformation in this high-growth sector.

Han Digital brings unparalleled expertise in talent research, leadership hiring, and strategic consulting for the MCE sector. Our deep industry connections and data-driven approach ensure that your GCC is equipped with the best talent to lead in the new era of mining and construction equipment.

Contact Han Digital today to discover how we can help you build the future of mining and construction equipment in India and beyond.