New Delhi, Jul 31: India’s expanding infrastructure programme will require wider adoption of digital technologies, advanced construction methods and sustainable materials to ensure faster, safer and long-lasting development, industry experts said at the Business Today Infrastructure Summit 2026.
The panellists said the scale of infrastructure activity across sectors such as roads, railways, power transmission, manufacturing and real estate has increased the need for technology-driven planning and efficient project execution.
Amit Gossain, Managing Director of KONE Elevator for India and South Asia, highlighted the growing importance of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in infrastructure and industrial projects.
He said digital planning tools could improve coordination, reduce operational challenges and support more efficient construction, including in smaller manufacturing facilities.
Gossain also pointed to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in monitoring elevator systems. Such technologies can help identify possible technical issues remotely and allow preventive maintenance before a major failure occurs.
Similar monitoring systems could be adapted for infrastructure such as roads and bridges to improve maintenance and enhance safety, he said.
The experts noted that while technology could accelerate project execution, infrastructure development must continue to follow established engineering standards and quality requirements.
Rajeev Garg, Chief Sales Officer of Jindal Stainless, stressed the importance of using durable and sustainable materials in public infrastructure. He referred to the role of corrosion-resistant materials in improving the longevity of bridges and other structures.
He said collaboration among industry, academic institutions and research organisations could lead to innovative solutions that support India’s long-term infrastructure goals.
The panellists also said India’s growing infrastructure investment had made the country an increasingly important market for global companies.
Bharat Kaushal, Corporate Officer at Hitachi Limited and Executive Officer at Hitachi India, said the expanding number of domestic projects had strengthened India’s position in the company’s business strategy.
Improved road and transport connectivity has also helped reduce delivery times and strengthen supply-chain operations, according to Ankur Periwal, Managing Director of KPT Pipes.
Periwal said faster movement of raw materials and finished products had improved logistics efficiency, with transportation time on some routes declining significantly over the past decade.
However, he said India would require sustained investment and further improvements in manufacturing, logistics and infrastructure to expand exports and compete with major global production hubs.
The experts said continued integration of technology, sustainability and research-based innovation would be essential for building resilient infrastructure and supporting India’s long-term economic growth.
