Anish Shah: Mahindra Gears Up Workforce for Green Future with Born Electric SUVs

Mumbai: The Mahindra Group, an eight-decade-old Indian multinational, is making sure its employees are ready for the shift to more sustainable, green businesses. Group CEO and MD Anish Shah emphasized that no employee will be left behind in this transition, as the company focuses on operations that are better for the planet.

Workforce Training for New Technologies

Shah highlighted the significant growth in their internal combustion engine (ICE) portfolio and expressed excitement about launching their Born Electric SUVs next year. Mahindra is reskilling both officers and workmen in the automotive division to handle new technologies, including electric vehicles (EVs). Engineers are being trained in battery tech, vehicle electronics, and the Born Electric platform. Annual reskilling programs for workmen cover EV architecture, battery handling, and high-voltage safety.

Expanding Skills Across All Sectors

Beyond the auto business, Mahindra is also focusing on skill development in other sectors such as real estate, finance, tech, and renewables. For instance, Mahindra Susten’s Skills Development Centre has trained thousands of technicians in solar photovoltaic (PV) skills. Mahindra Last Mile Mobility, in collaboration with Mahindra Logistics, trains women to drive EVs for their last-mile delivery service.

Empowering Women and Youth

Mahindra has partnered with the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship to launch a skilling program under the PM Drone Sakhi Yojana, training women to use drones for sustainable agriculture. The company has empowered over a million youth and more than half-a-million women with transferable skills, preparing them for the rapidly changing job market. In FY24 alone, they skilled up 228,540 women.

Impact on Jobs and Reskilling Plans

Shah acknowledged that the transition to new areas and technologies could impact existing jobs. However, he sees more jobs being created, especially in the EV portfolio, which includes advanced engineering, robotics, battery technology, and mechatronics. Mahindra is committed to skilling and reskilling its workforce to meet these new demands.

Industry-Wide Transition

Large Indian business groups are also working on plans to transition their employees to newer ways of working, with a focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals. Shah mentioned that companies are taking this seriously and developing plans to ensure no one is left behind in the move towards sustainability.

Exploring New Business Areas

Mahindra is exploring multiple new business areas but has set a high bar for entry. The focus is on areas that generate greater returns and add value to Mahindra. Shah emphasized that there is no rush to jump into new ventures, as their existing businesses still have significant growth potential.

IPO Plans

While IPOs are not a current priority for Mahindra, the company recognizes their value from a market standpoint. Shah noted that the focus is on building businesses for the future, and an IPO will be a stepping stone along the way.

In summary, Mahindra is actively preparing its workforce for a green transition, reskilling employees for new technologies, and exploring new business opportunities with a focus on sustainability and growth.