After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the Automotive Skills Development Council, India's first sector skill council for the automobile industry, has organised the skill-oriented brainstorming ASDC’s Partners Forum - 2022 on Wednesday. Rajesh Aggarwal IAS, Secretary, MSDE, inaugurated the forum at Indian Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Dr. Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi, Chairperson, NCVET; Ved Mani Tiwari, COO and acting CEO, NSDC, also attended the function. 

ASDC also launched a career guidance book, which features the opportunities in the automobile sector. The students will also get information on the new trends of 3D printing and robotics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, a release said. 

Rajesh Aggarwal emphasised reskilling the roadside mechanics and appreciate the ASDC’s initiative for the globally competent trainers with dual certification. 

Aggarwal said, “It is pertinent that we promote AR-VR-based skill training for the automotive sector, imbibe the culture of learning, and focus on multiskilling, as these initiatives will empower our youth and promote nation-building.” 

He further emphasised on the need for a dynamic skilling environment, exposure to industry requirements (reskilling, upskilling) and NSQF alignment with industry needs. 

Aggarwal said that we would work closely with the Armed Forces in the implementation of the Agnipath scheme as the country prepares a future ready army of young Indians. Some skills learnt on the job will have direct equivalence with National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) syllabus and Agniveers will be given Skill India certification while in service. 

Dr. Kalsi said that the council was working closely with AICTE, UGC and Sector Skill Council for making an excellent skill ecosystem. Dr. Kalsi said, “We have developed and recognised 16 different QPs that align with NSQF. All the QPs like AI, robotics, IOT, cyber securities etc are dedicated for the industry 4.0. We have also recognised two-days micro skilling training that will help the young to get skill certification.” 

Tiwari said, “The demographic dividend for India is at its peak right now. Our trainers will need to be trained in the delivery of content using digital technologies and digital content. We must restructure our job descriptions to better reflect the demands of the modern workplace. A nation that is skilled and empowered will be the result of the introduction of a digital ecosystem for skilling and livelihood, as well as the establishment of e-laboratories.” 

Vinod Aggarwal said: “The Indian automotive industry today is at the forefront of global industry practices, both in terms of adoption of the latest technology as well as fostering innovations through integrating safety and performance of vehicles produced in India. The industry stands tall in supporting the initiatives of honourable Prime Minister’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. In order to continue its leadership position, it needs a constant source of skilled manpower as well as focus on upskilling and reskilling its existing workforce. The theme for this year’s Partner Forum 2022 is ‘Sahayogita se Atmanirbharata’ which sums up the need for collaboration of all stakeholders – industry, government, training institutions and potential candidates to collaborate; this is what we believe will have a significant contribution in building Atmanirbhar Bharat.” 

Industry experts and panelists discussed on outcome driven training, strengthening the skill process, new opportunities in EV training, and Industry 4.0. (MT)

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JCBL Armouring Solutions, a provider of armouring solutions in India, is entering the luxury car protection segment. The company stated it has worked on premium vehicles such as Mercedes-Benz, Range Rover and Defender, giving protection while maintaining vehicle performance.

India’s luxury protected vehicle segment is reporting growth at a 15–20 percent CAGR. JCBL stated its technology provides ballistic protection while preserving vehicle elegance and dynamics. The company serves VVIPs, celebrities and individuals with high net worth. It focuses on lightweight armouring that keeps strength, agility and comfort after the protection process.

Each vehicle is tested at accredited labs, including the NFSU Ballistic Research and Testing Lab and complies with certification standards from VRDE, ICAT and DRDO. The company’s R&D centre is approved by DSIR and it holds a DIPP license.

Rushank Doshi, CEO, JCBL Armouring Solutions, said, "Luxury should never come at the cost of safety. We are redefining secure mobility in India’s luxury car segment, ensuring top-tier protection without compromising elegance, performance, or craftsmanship. This reflects JCBL Group’s commitment to excellence, innovation and world-class engineering."

JCBL Armouring Solutions also reinforces vehicle components, including suspension and braking systems, to maintain performance and dynamics. Security features include run-flat tyres, bullet-resistant glasses and a reinforced structure. The company offers aftersales services, including maintenance, upgrades and training for customers on handling protected vehicles.

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Kia India has announced a significant change to its leadership team, naming Sunhack Park as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Joonsu Cho as Chief Business Officer (CBO).

As the new CSO, Park will head Kia India’s sales strategy, focusing on sustainable growth, improving operational efficiency and expanding the brand’s market reach. He brings over 28 years of international automotive experience, having held key leadership positions at Kia Headquarters in South Korea, the Middle East & Africa (MEA) and India.

Cho, in his role as CBO, will be responsible for crafting business strategies, overseeing production planning and export logistics, leading cross-functional teams and forging strategic alliances to ensure operational excellence. He has over 32 years of leadership experience from global roles in Australia, the UK and Europe.

Sunhack Park, said, “I am privileged to take on the role as Chief Sales Officer. This is an exciting phase for the brand as we continue to expand our presence in a dynamic and evolving market. My focus will be on driving sales growth, optimizing operational efficiency, and strengthening our dealer and partner ecosystem.”

Joonsu Cho, said, “I am honored to assume the role of Chief Business Officer. Kia India has made remarkable strides in the market, and my priority will be to develop and execute robust business strategies that support sustainable growth and operational excellence.”

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RattanIndia Enterprises-owned Revolt Motors, a leading electric motorcycle brand, is strengthening its leadership team and has appointed Raghava Rao as its new Chief Business Officer (CBO).

Rao, a seasoned industry leader, comes with over two decades of diverse experience across the automotive sector, spanning two-wheelers, tractors, three-wheelers and commercial vehicles.

Prior to joining Revolt Motors, he has held senior leadership positions at Kinetic Engineering, Bajaj Auto, Tata Motors, Piaggio Vehicles and TI Clean Mobility (Montra Electric).

Roy Kurian Joins Revolt Motors As President

Rao has expertise in channel sales, customer support, customer experience and market insights, with a proven track record of driving business growth and customer success.

Anjali Rattan, Chairperson, RattanIndia Enterprises, said, “We are delighted to welcome Raghava Rao to the Revolt family. His deep expertise in the automotive industry and proven leadership across multiple business functions will play a crucial role in accelerating our growth journey and further strengthening Revolt’s position as India’s No.1 electric motorcycle brand.”

Rao is an alumnus of the Indian School of Business (General Management Program), holds a B.Tech degree from BITS Pilani, and a PGCSM from XLRI Jamshedpur.

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Mumbai-headquartered SUV major Mahindra & Mahindra has launched the new Thar with prices starting at INR 999,000. The vehicle incorporates design changes, comfort features and technology integration, engineered for urban travel and weekend adventures.

The popular SUV has gone home to over 300,000 customers, now features a new exterior, which includes a front grille, a dual-tone front bumper and R18 alloy wheels. The interior includes a black theme dashboard and a new steering wheel. It is available in six colour options, including two new additions: Tango Red and Battleship Grey.

For comfort and convenience, the Thar features rear AC vents for second-row passengers, a sliding armrest and a dead pedal (automatic transmission models). Door-mounted power windows, a rear-view camera and an internally operated fuel lid are included. The vehicle also has a rear wash & wiper and an A-Pillar entry assist handle.

The Thar is equipped with a 26.03 cm HD infotainment screen that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other tech includes Type-C USB ports and Adventure Stats Gen II, which provides off-road data such as a racing tab, altimeter, outside temperature and pressure, trip meter and steering direction.

Mahindra offers a range of engine options paired with transmissions – a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic – in RWD as well as 4X4 configurations.

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO - Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “Over the years, Thar has become more than just an SUV – it’s a symbol of freedom, adventure, and a lifestyle that resonates deeply with our customers. At Mahindra, we are committed to listening to our customers and evolving with their needs, which is why the New Thar reflects both their feedback and our dedication to provide the best to our customers. By blending new design elements, smart technology, enhanced comfort and convenience features, the new Thar offers an unparalleled driving experience that empowers our customers to explore limitless possibilities in both urban and off-road settings.”

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