Nirmal Singh, CEO, NS Machine Tools talks about his company and his journey in the industry during a candid chat with us.
Tell us about your company?
We started the company, NS Machine Tools in 2013. Third generation in this business, we manufacture woodworking machines for furniture and modular kitchen.
How did you enter this industry?
My grandfather and my father started the company and later, I joined them.
There are quite a few companies in this field. What’s unique about your company?
Everyone has their own style. I feel people who buy our machine should use them frequently so the machines require no services and run efficiently without any issues.
So, you are depending on reliability?
Yes
Are you launching any new products?
We have a few plans, will be launching some products in the near future. Also, there is a big machine. We are planning to convert it into two machines priced at 25-30 lacs. We are trying to bring down the cost to 10-15 lacs.
Your main focus is affordability, then?
Yes
What kind of changes are you looking forward to in the future? Is there anything new coming out in India?
I have seen a lot of changes since I’ve come into this industry. Earlier, there were only randa machine and ganda machine. Now, there are lots of machines available with the latest technology like 3-axis and 5-axis CNC router machine and panel saw machine. The best thing is, there are wide range of products to choose from and the quality has improved drastically.
In abroad, we come across a lot of 4-axis and 5-axis CNC router machines but we don’t see them much in India. Why?
In India, only 3-axis CNC router machines are available. You will hardly find 4-axis and 5-axis machines. I think people who are in this field are satisfied with the knowledge that already exists. They don’t want to update their machines.
According to you, when do you think 5-axis technology will be widely available in India?
If this condition persists, it may take over 15-20 years for the technology to reach India. Here, the level of education is quite low. Considering that, I think most companies would have added the CNC machine only quite recently.
How would you say the growth rate is in this industry?
I think it has gradually increased. Earlier, it was flat but it has picked up pace now.
Did you gain anything from the implementation of GST tax?
Of course. Earlier, there was excise duty but now it is 18% GST for everyone.
Did you accumulate any savings after the GST?
I think the government is getting the savings.
As you said, earlier you had to pay excise duty. But now, GST is moderate So, are you getting any cost benefit from it?
For us, it is still the same. Earlier, we had to pay 18% excise duty. Now, we are paying GST. The only difference is, some people paid excise duty, some didn’t. But everybody has to pay GST.
So, you are saying you don’t have to pay VAT or CST anymore?
Nothing except GST.
Tell us about your expectations from the government?
One always expects a lot from the government. I would expect them to make India as progressive as Europe or America in terms of infrastructure. Let’s see what happens.
Are you expected any policy changes in your industry?
It’s not easy to get aid from the government.
Any message for our readers?
Always hope for the best
