India, Japan Collaborate to Elevate MSMEs with Japanese-Style Manufacturing Training

New Delhi, India – The Certification Ceremony for Trainers under the Project on Dissemination of Japanese-Style Manufacturing for MSMEs in India marked a pivotal moment in strengthening industrial collaboration between India and Japan.

Held on February 4, 2025, at the MSME Development Facilitation Office in Connaught Place, New Delhi, the event recognized trainers who successfully completed specialized training in Kaizen and 5S methodologies, essential components of Japan’s revered Monozukuri philosophy.

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from AOTS, followed by opening remarks from Ms. Mercy Epao, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of MSME, who underscored the importance of Japanese manufacturing techniques in enhancing productivity and operational efficiency in India’s MSME sector. As the Guest of Honor, Prof. Ashok Kumar Chawla, Advisor (Japan) at the East Asia Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized the growing Indo-Japanese collaboration in skill development and industrial innovation. His address highlighted the need for a structured approach to implementing Japanese manufacturing best practices in India.

Delivering the keynote address, Ms. Sudha Keshari, Additional Development Commissioner (MSME) and Head of Technology Centres, stressed the significance of continuous improvement and waste reduction as fundamental drivers of sustainable growth. Her insights aligned with the vision of the training initiative, which aims to embed systematic problem-solving and efficiency-driven practices within India’s MSME landscape.

Representing Japan, Mr. Yuta Hikichi, First Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in India, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to fostering technological and industrial cooperation with India. Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Eiji Teshima, General Manager of the AOTS New Delhi Office, highlighted the role of structured training programs in helping Indian MSMEs achieve global competitiveness.

The highlight of the event was the much-awaited certificate distribution ceremony. Trainers who had successfully completed the program were felicitated by Ms. Mercy Epao, Mr. Yuta Hikichi, Mr. Eiji Teshima, Ms. Sudha Keshari, and Prof. Ashok Chawla. The recognition underscored the participants’ dedication to mastering Kaizen and 5S principles, reinforcing their commitment to fostering a culture of efficiency and precision in Indian manufacturing.

A special segment honored outstanding speakers for their exceptional contributions during the training. Mr. Navajyoti Panda, Mr. Aman Chourasia, Mr. Govindan M., and Mr. Abhinav Das were awarded for their exemplary understanding and application of Japanese manufacturing principles. The awards were presented by Mr. Yuta Hikichi, Mr. Eiji Teshima, and Mr. Shinichiro Tashiro, an expert in Kaizen and lean manufacturing practices.

The event also featured a series of impactful presentations by award-winning trainers. Mr. Navajyoti Panda shared insights into the defining characteristics of Japanese manufacturing, while Mr. Govindan M. delved into Seiton, a critical component of the 5S framework, emphasizing its role in workplace organization and efficiency.

AOTS expert Mr. Shinichiro Tashiro provided a comprehensive review of the training program, detailing its curriculum structure and future objectives. His presentation focused on key elements such as maximizing profitability by eliminating Muda (waste), implementing structured problem-solving techniques like the PDCA Cycle and 5-Why Analysis, and applying standardized work methodologies to enhance productivity. He urged participants to integrate these principles into their workplaces, cultivate a sustainable Kaizen mindset, and engage with Japanese companies operating in India.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks by Ms. Ankita Pandey, Director at the Ministry of MSME, who applauded the collaborative efforts between AOTS, the Japanese Embassy, and Indian MSMEs in making the program a success. She called for continued engagement, advanced training modules, and regular review meetings to further reinforce Indo-Japanese industrial cooperation.

As the formal proceedings wrapped up, attendees gathered for a photo session before proceeding to a networking luncheon, providing a platform for industry experts, trainers, and government officials to explore future collaborations.

The Certification Ceremony underscored the growing synergy between India and Japan in the manufacturing sector. By embracing Kaizen, 5S, and Monozukuri principles, Indian MSMEs are poised to enhance productivity, improve product quality, and establish themselves as competitive players in the global market. With strong backing from AOTS, the Japanese government, and India’s MSME Ministry, the initiative is expected to drive long-term transformation in India’s industrial landscape, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.