We’re evolving from a supplier to a solution partner
Chandrashekar V, MD and CEO, Gmmco
How do you assess the current demand environment for construction equipment in India?
India’s GDP growth of around 8.2 per cent reflects a consumption-driven economy with strong underlying fundamentals. With population growth and rapid urbanisation, demand for power, roads, civil infrastructure and allied sectors will remain robust. From our perspective, there is no concern about demand tapering; the focus is on how effectively we participate in and support this growth.
How is Gmmco’s engagement with customers evolving in this context?
We are moving decisively from being a supplier to being a solution partner. This starts with understanding the customer’s project requirements, selecting the right equipment, and then tailoring product support solutions to maximise uptime and utilisation. The objective is to improve machine availability and help customers deploy assets more efficiently across the project lifecycle.
Can you elaborate on service and uptime initiatives showcased at EXCON?
One of our key initiatives is a 48-hour back-to-work programme for customers under service contracts. In the event of a breakdown, we commit to restoring the equipment within 48 hours, supported by next-day parts availability. This directly addresses customer concerns around downtime and productivity.
How important are rentals and asset flexibility for project execution today?
Rental solutions are critical. Equipment requirements are low at the start of a project, peak during execution, and taper off towards completion. Customers need flexibility across this cycle. Along with rentals, trade-ins and buy-back options, we aim to offer a comprehensive solution that aligns equipment deployment with project phases rather than fixed ownership models.
What is your perspective on the used equipment market in India?
Demand for used equipment has to be developed through education and engagement. Many Caterpillar machines are capable of operating well beyond 100,000 hours with proper rebuilds, yet some customers scrap equipment at 30,000 hours. There is significant value in extending asset life through structured rebuild and support programmes, which we see as an opportunity for both customers and the industry.
How do technology and digital tools factor into this strategy?
Technology and digitalisation are central to Caterpillar’s and Gmmco’s approach. Most assets are now connected, with platforms like VisionLink providing real-time data. Our oil sampling laboratory at Nagpur functions much like a diagnostic test, enabling predictive maintenance. By identifying potential issues early, we can address them before failures occur, improving reliability and lowering lifecycle costs.
How are sustainability and fuel efficiency being addressed?
Fuel efficiency must be measured in terms of output, not just consumption. The real metric is fuel consumed per cubic metre of earth moved. Lower fuel use without corresponding productivity does not deliver value. Our focus is on engines and systems that reduce the total cost of operation while improving productivity and sustainability outcomes.
What localisation efforts support Indian customers and delivery timelines?
Caterpillar’s facilities in India, including one of its largest and most modern manufacturing plants globally, produce excavators, dumpers, loaders and engines. Local manufacturing strengthens supply resilience and ensures equipment is suited to Indian operating conditions. These localisation efforts will continue to expand.
Skilling remains a sector-wide challenge. How is Gmmco addressing this?
Talent availability is a critical constraint for a growing economy. Fewer people are willing to work on project sites today. We are therefore tapping talent from Tier II and Tier III cities, integrating them into the organisation and supporting long-term growth. This is complemented by structured training through external institutions such as IITs and Great Lakes, Caterpillar leadership programmes, and in-house digital learning focused on both technical and soft skills.
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